What would Equestria be like if Twilight never existed.
The summer sun celebration is about to begin and Nightmare Moon is soon to be released from her lunar prison. In a world without Twilight Sparkle, how would Nightmare Moon be defeated and what will become of Ponyville? Featured 9/1/2015 for a few hours Even got a screenshot of it.
The sun was shining high in the sky, spreading light over all of Equestria. From Manehattan to Fillydelphia, Celestia's light could be seen, spreading joy and happiness as everypony was getting ready for one of the biggest and most anticipated events of the year, the summer sun celebration. Everypony was excited and full of glee, preparing their own parties for the auspicious occasion. Usually the main event was held in major cities, such as Los Pegasus. But this year the celebration was being held in the most unlikely of places. This year the celebrations were to be conducted in the small town of Ponyville. Meanwhile in the most glamorous city in all the land, Princess Celestia had her own preparations to complete.
Canterlot was a city of regality and it shone brightly with sophistication and etiquette, the ponies who lived there even more so. Many of its inhabitants were busy in the streets preparing for their own celebration, going from store to store collecting the necessities for a party. The entire city was buzzing with excitement, but in the Canterlot palace a young pony sat in her study reading, her book laying in front of her as she read, her eyes focused intently on the words before her. She had been sitting on the floor for hours pondering over the words she was reading, imagining the scenes from the book in her mind.
Suddenly the mare looked up from her book, her concentration disturbed, breaking her from her reverie as the door of the study opened. A golden aura surrounded the handle whilst at the same time a voice of pure kindness called to her. “I see you're still reading that book I gave you. It is nice to see that after all these years as my protégé, that you still care so much about your studies but you're going to have to continue your studies later. I have an important task for you.” The princess announced, a sense of urgency in the mare's voice.
“What is it you need me to do, princess? Is it a test!” The student replied as she marked her page and placed her book on the table near her. “You already know I'm gonna ace it. After all, I've already mastered the spells you taught me last week.” Her voice was full of confidence.
“I do not doubt your abilities my young student, which is why I am giving you a task with a bit more responsibility. You are aware that the summer sun celebration is tomorrow, yes?”
“Yes Princess Celestia, but what does this have to do with me? ” She asked her mentor, her voice carrying a hint of arrogance and at the same time, curiosity.
“You see, this year the festivities are to be held in the town of Ponyville and I wish you to oversee the preparations of the celebration.”
“Aww, but princess, can't you send a royal guard for that? Any one of them has more experience at organisation than me. Why not send Shining Armor? last time I saw him he was sleeping under a tree. Give him the job.” Annoyed at the prospect of leaving Canterlot, she tried to think of more excuses to be excluded from her assignment, but her mind was blank.
“Shining Armor has other important tasks to complete here in Canterlot, that my dear is why I am sending you.” The princess giggled. “And besides, not so long ago, weren't you complaining about having nothing to do. A smile played across her face. “It's no wonder everything seems so boring for you!” Celestia Looked around her students study which was devoid of any decoration, containing only books and scrolls. “All you've been doing for the last few weeks is study. You need to get out more, explore a bit. So during your visit to Ponyville I want you to socialise, make some friends.”
The ponies face hardened. “Fine! I'll go, but why is the celebration being held in... Ponyville. That place isn't important, I've never even heard of it before. Why not Los Pegasus or Clouds Dale.”
“I have my reasons my little pony, don't you worry about that, and I see you have been reading that book I gave to you to study.”
The smaller pony was confused by the sudden revisit to the topic but went with it anyway. “I have but I don't really understand why you would give me a storybook for fillies. I thought I was meant to be reading about potions and stuff?”
“Would you prefer to be studying?” The princess responded, already knowing the answer she would receive.
“Actually I would.” Her student responded, sounding aggravated.
“Well, you will just have to wait. Pack anything you'll need for your trip and head over to the courtyard. Now you'll have to excuse me. I have business to attend to.” Celestia said, heading for the door. “I'll tell the guards to prepare your chariot and to send a message to spike to get ready, he'll be coming with you. Oh and Sunset Shimmer, good luck!”
Sunset Shimmer watched as the princess left and waited until the door was closed. When she thought Celestia was out of earshot she spoke again. “Great! Just perfect!” She yelled at the door. Changing her tone a more mocking one she continued “Why yes, Princess. I would love to abandon my current projects and watch ignorant villagers hang streamers, sounds like such great fun.”
With that came a response she dreaded. “So good to hear you had such a quick change of heart. Maybe I should give you more responsibilities.” The princesses voice echoed down the hall. “You must remember that words echo, Sunset.” Celestia spoke, with a giggle accompanying the last word.
Sunset Shimmer walked towards the Chariot that was awaiting her arrival, its golden curves flaring in the sunlight. At the front of the chariot two pure white pegasus colts were harnessed, each a member of the royal guard. Their armour shone almost as brightly as the chariot they were to soon to pull. Waiting for her was her assistant, Spike, a small but rather chubby dragon with purple iridescent scales, with green scales along his spine. “Glad to see you finally arrived, I thought you weren't going to show up.”
“Let's just get this over with.” Sunset replied, sounding slightly more callous than she intended to. Together they got into the chariot, and within moments they were off. As they were about to reach the edge of the courtyard, the guard ponies unfurled their wings and began flapping them in unison, developing a rhythm, which soon had them off the ground and soaring through the air above Canterlot and heading to Ponyville.
Sunset Shimmer looked down at the ground below them, watching as they crossed over endless fields and orchards. Up ahead she could see their destination. The town was slightly larger than she had expected but it was still only a minor village. Sunset turned to Spike. “This is it? This is where she plans to hold the celebrations?! It’s a dump!”
Spike looked up at Sunset. “I’m sure the Princess has her reasons.”
“What possible reason could she have for dumping us in this place?” Sunsets raised her voice. “It doesn’t even look like they’ve been preparing for the summer sun celebration.” The chariot was just passing over the town hall and was going down to land. With a shudder the chariot made contact with the ground, slowing just outside of the town hall. Exiting their ride, Sunset thanked the guards before they returned back to Canterlot.
Ponyville consisted of many plain two story house with straw thatched roofs, with only a few buildings standing out from the rest. The one next to them stood in the middle of the town. The large building was circular in shape with white walls and brown timber supports. From where they stood they could also see a similar building in the distance which was a lot more colourful.
Spike looked at his surroundings, noticing that Sunset was right. He couldn’t see any decorations or anything. It looked just like a normal day. “It doesn’t look too bad, at least the weather is nice.”
Sunset glared at spike. “Nice! Spike, this is the most important event of the year. Do you think the Princess will settle for nice? Just look!” Sunset pointed to a cluster of clouds. “What does it say on that list of yours? Does it say anything about clouds!?”
Spike fumbled with the list he had been carrying, unfurling it quickly. His eyes scanned the words until he found what he was looking for. Clearing his throat he spoke clearly, reading from the scroll “The weather scheduled for tomorrow’s ceremony is to be clear skies.” Spike looked up from the page and looked at Sunset. “So then who’s in charge of the weather around here? Does this place place even have a weather patrol?”
It was at that moment they heard a high pitched yell come from behind them “LOOK OUT!” Spike turned to look but only saw a streak of rainbow cross his vision and heard a yelp from Sunset as she was tackled to the ground by the aforementioned rainbow. Now covered in mud Sunset stood up, staring at the other mud covered pony in front of her. Giggling the pony with the rainbow mane spoe. “Um, 'scuse me?” Looking at Sunset’s mud soaked mane, the mare unfurled her wings and flew onto a nearby cloud. “Let me help you with that.” She then proceeded to jump repeatedly on the cloud. Within moments the cloud had released the water stored inside it entirely onto Sunset, soaking her from horn to hoof.
The rainbow maned pony looked down from her cloud at the now drenched pony below her. “Oops, I guess I over did it. Hang on a sec.” The pony took to the yet air again and flew towards Sunset Shimmer but before she could reach the pony she was seized as a blue aura surrounded her body. “Hey, what are you doing?!” She stared at the unicorn levitating her, confused at what was happening.
“I think you've done enough.” The pony responded. “Are you the pegasus in charge of the weather around here?” The cyan pegasus felt the magic holding her dissipate and landed in front of the unicorn.
“I sure am! Why, who's asking?”
“I'm Sunset Shimmer. I was sent to oversee the preparations for the celebrations but judging by the weather it seems you haven't been doing anything.” Rainbow looked up at the sky.
“Don't worry, I'll get round to it later. Right now I have to practise.” She went to fly off but the unicorn kept talking.
“Practise? Practise for what?” The pony raised her voice. “What could possibly be more important than celebrations?!”
“The Wonderbolts of course.” The pegasus exclaimed. “If I can get this move perfect, than they'll have to let me join them.”
“You think the Wonderbolts will let you join them. Please, I've seen unicorns fly better. The Wonderbolts are the elite fliers of Equestria. You can't even keep the sky clear for a single day.”
The pegasus glared at the pony in front of her. “What makes you so qualified to judge me! You don't even have wings.” Rainbow Dash advanced on the unicorn. “So if you excuse me, I have practise to do.” The pegasus went to take off again but the unicorn kept talking.
“Well I'll just have to tell the Wonderbolts of your ineptitude.” The pegasus stopped in mid take-off.
“Inepti-what?” Rainbow Dash looked at her confused.
“It means that you don't know how to perform simple tasks and I imagine that they would never let you join if they hear about this.”
“And why would the Wonderbolts ever listen you?” Rainbow announced smugly.
The orange unicorn smiled. “Oh, I don't know. Maybe because I'm the princesses protégé and the fact that I'm close friends with their leader, Spitfire.” When Sunset stopped talking she could see that her words had had the desired effect. Rainbow's jaw dropped in surprise.
“Y-you wouldn't. You can't!” Rainbow was in shock. How could this pony be friends with the leader of the Wonderbolts. “P-please don't! I'll clear the sky, just watch.” The pegasus shot into the sky, going from cloud to cloud, each one disappearing soon after the other. Within seconds the whole sky was clear. The pony landed back in front of her with a thud. “See! Clear skies. everything is fine.”
Sunset looked around with a smile. “I don't know. I still think Spitfire would like to hear about your poor conduct.”
“NO! Please don't tell her.” The pegasus jumped forward and hugged Sunsets forelegs. "I beg you."
Removing her hooves from the pony's grasp she continued. “Okay. If you keep the skies clear, I'll think about it.” With that the orange pony left, leaving a distraught pegasus in the middle of the road.
“That was kind of mean of you.” Spike said, tailing behind the pony. “Now she's gonna be worried the entire day.”
“Oh, stop worrying Spike. Besides, I had to do something. Otherwise the skies would never get cleared.”
“And why didn't you tell me you were friends with the Wonderbolt's leader. You could have got us free tickets to their races.”
“You fell for that too? Spike, when have you ever seen me with the Wonderbolts?”
Spike looked at his friend, confused. “You were lying... Okay, that wasn't mean, that was just cruel.” Spike knew Sunset could be a bit underhanded but he had never known her to be so cruel before. “Are you sure you can handle this, Sunset?” Spike asked, concerned for his friend.
“I'm fine, just a little anxious, that's all.” She turned to look at Spike. “What's next on the list?” Spike took a look at the scroll he was holding. He muttered as he read.
“Next we have to check on the food. According to this we need to head over to Sweet apple acres.”
The mare sighed. “Is there anything closer that we need to do. I don't feel like walking that far.” Spike checked the list again, searching for something that sounded like it would be close.
“Aha, found something. Town hall. There's supposed to be a pony there in charge of decoration.”
The town hall looked much like it had when they arrived, except now there was a large golden ribbon extending around the first floor balcony. “Well at least there has been some development on the decorations.” The orange mare trotted to the entrance of the building, her assistant following her closely. Raising her hoof, the mare pushed open the door, revealing the interior of the building. Sunset stood in awe at the opulence of the space before her. Blue ribbons decorated the room with banners between the support pillars with golden symbols stitched onto the fabric, usually a sun. It was beautiful.
“Wow... it’s perfect.” Spikes said in awe. Sunset looked to him, smiling.
“Well, I have to admit, they have done a very good job. Looks like this won’t take so long after all.” Sunset admired the decorations whilst talking.
“Not the decor. Her.” Spike pointed towards the front of the hall. There, stood a magnificent white unicorn, her purple mane shining in the light. The mare was looking through a selection of ribbons, throwing them behind her after examining each one. “How are my spines?” Spike asked as he checked his green scales for faults. “Are they straight?” Sunset rolled her eyes and walked up to the mare in question.
“Excuse me. Are you the-“ She was interrupted by the white mare.
“Just a moment please. ‘I am in the zone’ as it were.” The mare spoke with an elegant voice, sounding as if she were from Canterlot. She scanned through countless ribbons before levitating a shimmering red ribbon into place and tied it onto a post in a ribbon “Ah yes. Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why Rarity you are a talent. Now how can I help you-” She turned to Sunset and stared at the orange mare mane in shock, letting out a small gasp. “My dear, whatever happened to your mane? It’s absolutely soaked.”
“Oh, it’s nothing, just a bit of a weather accident.” Rarity circled her, not taking her eyes off Sunset's mane. “...Well, it looks like you’ve got everything prepared for tomorrow, so I’ll just let myself out.”
Rarity stood in Sunsets way. “Oh no, you can’t go out with your beautiful mane ruined. Come with me and I’ll have you looking as good as new.” Rarity grabbed sunsets hoof in hers and pulled her along with her out of the hall. “I simply cannot let a mare go about her day looking like-” Rarity paused, trying to think of a word that described Sunsets sodden mane. “-Like that.”
“It's not that bad, only a bit of water. It'll dry out in a hour.”
“Nonsense. Don't worry, I'll take care of everything, darling. By the time I'm done, your mane will be back to its original beautiful self.” Sunset went to protest the matter further but the mare silenced her with a hoof. “Don't argue dear, I won't take no for an answer.” Rarity grabbed Sunset by her hoof and pulled her along with her. “Now tell me dear, however did your mane become so aqueous.”
Sunset stood in front of a large converging mirror, wearing one of the many outfits that Rarity had given her to wear. She stared at herself in the mirror, admiring the apparel that she had been given to wear. Its smooth white cloth hugging her skin, going from her flank and reaching up her neck, ending inch's from her jaw. The whole thing was encrusted with various jewels, with a large emerald adorning her sternum. “This is a really beautiful costume Rarity. Where ever did you buy it? It must have cost a fortune.” Rarity appeared from behind the mirror, admiring her work.
“I'm glad you like it. That is actually one of my designs.” Rarity smiled at her last comment. She always loved getting positive feedback from her clients.
“I love it but I'm going to have to hurry off. I still have a lot to prepare for before the summer sun celebration.”
“You throwing a party before the celebration as well? I might stop by after I'm finished with the decorations at town hall. Where are you having the party?” Rarity waited for an aswer from her customer.
“Oh I'm not throwing a party, I'm just making sure everything is ready for when the Princess arrives. To be honest I'm hoping to finish early so I can head back to Canterlot” Rarity's eyes widened as Sunset finished the last sentence.
“Canterlot?! Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication! I have always dreamed of living there! I can't wait to hear all about it!” Rarity leaned in towards Sunset, nuzzling Sunsets neck. “We are going to be the best of friends, you and I.” Quickly the white mare pulled her head from Sunsets neck. “Emeralds?! What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies!” With that the fashionista trotted towards a large chest opposite the mirror.
“I would love to stay, but I have to finish with the arrangements for the celebrations.” Rarity looked at her new friend, a look of disappointment in her face.
“Okay, but drop by after your finished. I want to hear more about Canterlot.” Sunset closed the door to the boutique.
“Do we have to go, Sunset? She's such a nice pony.” Sunset looked behind her in surprise. She had completely forgotten about Spike.
“We still have the food and music to check up on Spike. If we don't hurry, we'll miss the train back.”
“It won't be too bad staying another day. This place seems nice. Besides, if we stay we get to watch Princess Celestia raise the sun.”
“We can see the Princess raise the sun any time we want Spike. It's nothing special.”
“Please Sunset, this is different.” Spike pleaded.
“No Spike! We have already spent too much time on this.” Sunset sped up, forcing the dragon to jog to keep up.
“Come on, Sunset. It's only one day. Nothing bad comes fro-” Spike was interrupted as a rainbow maned pony appeared.
“Hey. I just wanted to check in with you. See if the weather was to your liking.” A nervous smile stretched across Rainbow's face. Sunset was confused for a moment before remembering the events from earlier that day.
The unicorn glanced up at the sky then looked back to the volatile pegasus .“The weather is lovely.” she smiled at the agitated mare. “If you keep this up, Spitfire will never have to hear about you blunder.”
“S-sure thing. Have a nice day” The pony flew off, muttering under her breath. “Stupid unicorns.”
Sunset cantered down the dirt road that led to Sweet apple acres, her mind focused the remaining tasks she had to complete. She looked up at the position of the sun, by the looks of it they still had a good few hours to finish their job. Turning to Spike she muttered. “Hopefully we’ll be able to finish before sunset.” Spike giggled but let her continue. “At this rate though, it seems like everypony we bump into is determined to make us late.” For a while they continued in silence, only the sound of animals and the wind interrupting their thoughts.
Spike broke the silence. “So do you think she liked me?” Spike blushed slightly.
Sunset looked at Spike, confused for a moment but then remembered the white mare from earlier. “Spike, you realise she’s like... double your age.” She waited for the dragon’s response.
Spike scratched the back of his head, slightly embarrassed. “Well yeah, but there’s still a chance right, I mean... once I get older.” The drake looked away from Sunset, his face turning a deep shade of red.
“It’s nothing to worry yourself with Spike. Anypony would be lucky to have you as thei-” Sunset was interrupted as an orange mare called to them.
“Howdy! You must be Ms. Sunset. Ah was wonderin' when you were goin’ to show up.” The work horse smiled at her guests. Sunset turned her attention to the earth pony in front of her who was waiting for them beneath the arched wooden entrance to Sweet apple acres. "Come along. I'll introduce ya'll to the rest of the Apples."
“How did you know we were coming?” Sunset wondered.
“Mah friend Rainbow stopped by to clear the clouds over here and told me to watch out for you, didn’t say why though.” The earth pony turned and started heading up the dirt path leading up to a large red barn. “She seemed mighty nervous though. What did you say to her?”
Sunset looked uneasily at her hooves. “Well... I may have been a tad too harsh with her.” She mumbled, remembering how she had treated the pegasus.
“Ah wouldn't worry about her if ah were you. She's a bit overly sensitive when it comes to her job. A while ago ah asked her for a bit of extra rain over mah farm and she gave me a mighty big storm for mah troubles.” AJ shook her head remembering the storm. “Sorry sugarcube, ah don't believe ah caught your name.” She said, now directing her attention towards Spike. “Rainbow only talked about Sunset.”
“I'm Spike. Wait, she didn't say anything about me?”
“Nope, sorry partner. Here we are.” The orange mare said as she walked under a nearby gazebo with a table underneath it. “Since you're here to check on the food for tomorrow, I assume y'all wanna try some?” In response to this comment Sunsets stomach gave a small growl of agreement. Applejack let out a small laugh then continued. “Ah'll take that as a yes. Hold on a sec.” The workhorse reached over to a nearby metal triangle and began ringing it with a metal rod she had picked up. “Soups on, everypony!”
At the sound of the chime, ponies gathered from all over the farm at the gazebo. Within seconds Sunset was surrounded by ponies, each one happy at the prospect of an early meal. “Now why don't ah introduce y'all to the Apple family.” Sunset looked around at the ponies before.
“That's really nice of you, but I really-” Before she could finish her sentence a plate was placed in front of her with what looked like some sort of dessert on it. The yellow mare holding the plate smiled before retreating from the table.
“This here's Apple Fritter.” Applejack announce as the yellow mare rejoined the crowd. Almost immediately another pony arrived at the table with another plate. “Apple Bumpkin.” Applejack continued as each dish was placed on the table. “Red Gala, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp...” Applejack took in a deep breath of air to continue the list of ponies. “Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom and Granny Smith.” At the last name the orange mare looked over to a nearby rocking chair with a old light green mare sitting in it. “Up'n'attem, Granny Smith, we got guests.”
The mare in question awoke from her sleep, slightly startled before mumbling. “Wha..? Soup's on? I'm up, here I come, I'm comin'.” Slowly the older pony made her over way to the Gazebo, joining the rest of the Apple family.
The orange mare looked back to Sunset. “Why, ah'd say you're already part of the family!” She proclaimed, a large smile on her face. Sunset looked at the gathering surprised at their... friendliness seemed like an understatement.
“Well I must say you ponies have done a fantastic job with the food but we don't have anytime to waste, I'll leave you to continue with the catering. C'mon Spike.” She beckoned to the drake that was eyeing the food longingly.
“Aren't you gonna stay for brunch.” Sunset looked towards a small filly, which was staring sadly at her.
“Sorry, but my assistant and I,” Spike rolled his eyes. “have a lot of work we still need to do.” The ponies around her all let out a collective sigh, not even bothering to hide their disappointment. Sunset trotted back the way she had came. Spike, still beneath the gazebo gave one last look at the 'glorious' pile of food on the table, before sauntering after Sunset.
Applejack watched the dragon as it followed the unicorn down the dirt path. She thought to herself, 'poor fella, must be starvin'. Quickly she grabbed a plate from the top of the pile, which had a small cupcake on in, and galloped after the dragon. “Hey, take this. There's no point on y'all leaving on an empty stomach.” The mare passed the plate to Spike who grinned happily before thanking the mare and chasing after his master. “Hope that Sunset doesn't get herself into any trouble.” The farm pony whispered as they left.
Spike sat on Sunset Shimmer's back, savouring the treat he had been given. They were both heading back into town for their next task. Their return journey went pretty much the same way their first trip had. Soon the two were back in the town navigating the crowds of ponies still getting ready for tomorrow's festivities. Amidst the chaos the unicorn noticed a pink pony running through the crowd, carrying a large selection of party supplies. Chuckling to herself she remarked. “Some ponies really go all out, don't they Spike?”
Spike followed her stare and noticed the pink earth pony as well. “Wow, she must be throwing a party for the whole town by the looks of it.”
Sunset found herself lost in thought as she watched all the other ponies going about their day. That could have been her getting ready for a party of her own, but no! She had to be stuck here, supervising lesser ponies as they prepare. It figures Celestia would force her to do this! She always knew her mentor had a twisted sense of humour, she had even tricked Shining Armor into believing that he had killed her pet phoenix, but this was just cruel.
She was broken from her train of thoughts as Spike jabbed her in the ribs. “OW! What was that for Spike?!” She scowled at the baby dragon on her back.
“I've been trying to get your attention for ages, it's not my fault you were off in Cloudsdale.” Spike countered. “We still have the music to check up on. After that we can both get some rest. Celestia knows you need it.”
“It should be around here somewhere...” Spike looked at the area around him. “It says so on the check-list.”
Sunset sighed to herself, exhausted. They had been looking for over half an hour and still hadn't found the pony in charge of the music. “Hoof over the list Spike, you're probably reading it wrong.” Obediently the dragon passed the scroll to her. She read aloud, a habit that she had developed from years of studying with Celestia. “Music practise being held in Ponyville park?" She looked up from the scroll. “Well that doesn't help us. There isn't even any music here.” She continued walking through the park.
They walked for a few minutes, neither of them talking, Sunset looking at the scenery as she walked. For such a small town, she had to admit, it was quite charming. The trees were waving softly in the breeze and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. She winced as she remembered why. It was truly a beautiful day, even the birds were singing in harmony. The unicorns found herself being drawn towards the melody the birds were singing.
Her thoughts were interrupted as a claw waved in front of her face. “Sunset! Are you in there? Hello!”
“I can hear you Spike! Stop with the yelling.” She acknowledged. “What is it.”
“You've been zoning out a lot lately, are you ok?”
“I'm fine, it's just... that music is so beautiful.” She continued her trot towards the music.
“You mean the birds?” Spike listened carefully and noticed how the chirps and trills mixed together. It was a nice melody he had to admit. As they rounded a bush, they could see an assortment of birds standing of different branches of a tree, all whistling the same tune. In front of them hovered a yellow pegasus mare.
“Oh my. Um, stop please, everyone, um,” At her command all the birds ceased their singing. The pegasus flew up to one of the birds and continued. “Excuse, sir? I mean no offence, but your rhythm is just a teeny-tiny bit off.” The bird nodded to her and she flew back to the ground. “Now, follow me, please. A-one, a-two, a-one two three-”
“Wow! That sounds amazing!” Sunset exclaimed. The yellow mare's eyes widened in surprise at the interruption and watched as the birds flew off, startled. “Oh, I am so sorry.” Sunset blushed in embarrassment. “I didn't mean to interrupt, but the music was just so beautiful.” The yellow flew over to Sunset and landed in front of her, hoofing the ground nervously.
Sunset waited for the mare to respond but she just stood there, anxiously looking at the ground. “I'm Sunset Shimmer... you must be the one in charge of the music.” Another length of silence followed. “Do you have a name?”
The mare didn't look at her but responded. “Um, I'm...” The last word was whispered and Sunset couldn't make it out.
“Sorry, I didn't quite catch that.”
“Um, my name...” She said, the whole sentence in a whisper.
“Your going have to speak up.” Sunset responded restlessly. The mare tried to respond but the words only came out as a squeak. The birds returned to their branches one by one and soon the tree was full again. “Well... um. Looks like your birds are back. I'll just leave you to it then.” This was met with another squeak. Sunset turned and walked towards spike to leave. “Well that was a waste of time.”
The yellow mare turned towards Sunset as she lefts and saw a small purple shape walk towards the orange mare. Her eyes widened in surprise. “Ah, a baby dragon!” Her cheer startling the birds again. The previously timid pegasus leaped into the air and flew towards the pair, knocking Sunset out of the way and skidding to a halt in front of Spike. “Oh, I've never seen a baby dragon before. He's so cute.” A wide grin spread across her face.
Spike looked at Sunset and grinned. “Well at least someone knows it.” He turned back to the pegasus.
“Oh my, he talks. I didn't know dragons could talk. That's just so incredibly wonderful I... I just don't even know what to say.” She flew into the air, still smiling.
A aqua aura surround Spike as Sunset levitated him and moved the dragon onto her back. “I'm glad that you like him, but we really have to head off.”
“Wait! Wait, what's his name?” The yellow mare followed them.
“I'm Spike.” The dragon quickly answered, happy with the attention he was receiving.
“Hey Spike. I'm Fluttershy.” Great! She talks to him but not me! Sunset thought to herself. “Wow, a talking dragon! And what do dragons talk about?”
“Well... what do you want to know?”
“Absolutely everything.” The pegasus smile grew even wider.
“Well, I started out as a cute little purple and green egg.”
They were now almost to the center of town and Spike was still talking to the enthralled mare. “And that's the story of my whole life.... up until today that is.”
“Oh, can you tell me about today?” Fluttershy asked excitedly.
“Sure! Well, I got up today and felt like a snack so I went to th-” Spike was interrupted by a grey pegasus mare.
“Are you Miss Shimmer?” The grey mare a addressed Sunset. The orange mare looked up to see a mare with bland grey fur and a shiny blonde mane hovering in the air above the trio. Sunset couldn't tell if she wall looking at her or the ground on account of her wall eyed stared. Two saddle bags filled with mail at her sides.
“Yes... I am.”
“Got a letter for you from Canterlot.” She ruffled through her bags and brought out a letter for Sunset, holding it between her teeth. Sunset took the letter with her magic. “See ya later! Hope you enjoy the surprise... oops!” The mail mare flew off with a strange grin plastered on her face.
“What was that about?” Sunset asked.
“I know right!” Spike declared. “Did you see those eyes... freaky.” Sunset rolled her eyes and opened the letter, reading to herself.
“Oh come on!” She yelled, making Fluttershy flinch. “Are you kidding me?”
“What is it?” Spike asked, curious as what could have caused the outburst. “Who is the letter from?”
“It's from the royal guard. Apparently they're,” She put on a sarcastic tone. “too busy too send us a chariot.”
“So what do we do until tomorrow.” Spike asked.
“They organised for us to sleep in a library.” Sunset scowled. “This must be some sort of prank from Shining Armour.”
Fluttershy's smile grew even wider. “I know where the library is! I can take you there.” She started talking to Spike again. “And then we can talk some more.”
Sunset sighed. “Fine, just take us there.”
“Yay. It's this way.” She announced as she trotted down the road towards a large tree in the distance. “It's not that far from here. So, Spike, how are you enjoying Ponyville?”
“It's really cool, but I haven't really had time to explore it much.”
“Maybe I could give you a tour before you leave tomorrow?”
“Here we are.” Fluttershy smiled, looking at the large oak tree in front of them which had been converted into a building. There was a balcony extending from the tree as well as a few windows. It was very different to the rest of the buildings in Ponyville. In front of the tree was a sign with a open book painted onto it.
“Well thanks for taking us here but we really have to get going.” Fluttershy went to talk again but the orange mare continued. “We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow.” Quickly Sunset opened the door to the library and trotted in, carrying Spike with her, before closing the door with a slam. The inside of the tree was dark and two two could barely see each other.
Spike glared at her. “Rude much?”
“Sorry Spike but I'm really not in the mood. We've been going around this silly town for hours and I really need some sleep. Now help me find the lightswi-”
“SURPRISE” A chorus of voices yelled. The room exploded with light. Revealing a large group of ponies in the room. It looked like the entire town was there, even the grey mail mare from before. So that's what she meant by surprise!
From the crowd jumped a pink pony with a bouncy pink mane. “Surprise! Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie and I threw this party just for you!”
“Were you surprised? Were you? Were you? Huh huh huh?” The pink blur asked enthusiastically.
“Uh, sure. I wasn't expecting the parties to start until later.”
“Not the Summer Sun celebration party silly.” The pink pony patted Sunset's mane. “Your welcome party!”
Sunset looked at the pony, puzzled. “Welcome party? I'm only here for the night.”
“Don't worry about that. You see, I saw you when you first got here remember? You were all 'Hello' and I was all 'gasp' remember? Y'see I've never seen you before and if I've never saw you befor-”
“Wait? When did I meet you earlier? The only time I've seen you is when you were going through town with all.. this” The orange mare gestured at the party.
Pinkie looked at Sunset distractedly, as if trying to remember what she ate last week. “OH! That's right! I was thinking about Twilight, my bad.”
“Who's Twili-” Sunset went to ask but was cut off by Pinkie.
“Don't you worry about that. It's not important now.” She looked at the party pony expecting more but Pinkie just hopped off with a grin on her face.
“Well that was weird, huh, Spike?”
“Yeah, wasn't expecting some- wow, they have crystal cakes!” Spike ran off into the crowd of ponies. Sunset rolled her eyes as the dragon left.
“You never could focus could you?” She muttered, smiling to herself. She looked around the party seeing if there were any ponies she could recognised. Immediately her attention was drawn to an alabaster pony with a elegant purple mane. Rarity stood amongst the crowd, talking quietly with Fluttershy. Sunset approached the two calmly. “Hey Rarity. Glad to see a familiar face here.”
“Oh darling, there you are. I was just telling Fluttershy about you. We still have a lot to catch up on. I was just curious. How does one such as myself- uh, I mean yourself, get to be in the service of the princess?”
“It's not that difficult. All you have to do is-”
“Sunset! Over here!” A voice cried over the crowd. Applejack pushed through the mass and appeared before them. “Glad you made it.”
“Thanks, um, I'm sorry but what was your name again? I seem to have forgotten.”
“No need to apologise, sugarcube. Mah name is Applejack. Just don't be forgetin' that again now, hehe.” Applejack winked.
Rarity looked at Sunset, ignoring Applejack. “Sorry dear, I didn't quite catch that last part. Something about the princess.”
“Oh, it wasn't anything important. This is a beautiful party, did you by any chance have anything to do with the decorations.” Sunset changed the subject.
“Why I do adore Pinkie's parties, I find the décor a bit... coarse. I prefer a more eloquent scene.” She looked from Sunset to Applejack, giving the farm pony a small glare.“ Excuse me girls, I just need a bit of fresh air.”
“What was that about?” Sunset turned to Applejack.
“Don't ya worry yourself about her. She's a great gal but she can sometimes be a bit stuck-up. I remember once she was helpin' me set up for a festival down at mah farm and she almost called the whole thing off cause she couldn't find any cerulean ribbons. What the hay is cerulean?! She always wants things to be perfect.”
“That sounds a bit extreme doesn't it?”
“Yeah but that's just Rarity. She only wants to help others.” Applejack smiled to herself. “If ah were ever in any trouble, she would be one of the first ponies ah would go to.”
“One of? Who would be the first?” Now she was curious.
The orange pony thought to herself for a bit before deciding. “Rainbow Dash. She's alwa-”
“Did someone say my name?!” The cyan pegasus appeared in a flash, leaving a rainbow trail behind her. “Oh... it’s you.” She said flatly.
“Rainbow Dash!” Applejack said frowning. “Were you spying on us?”
“N-no! I just happened to be... partying near you, and I heard my name. Yeah, that's what happened.” Rainbow Dash declared, looking at everything but the work horse, trying to look as innocent as possible.
“I told you already R.D, she's not going to get you in trouble for the clouds. She probably only said that to get you doing your job. You know... like you're supposed to be doing in the first place.” She turned to Sunset. “Isn't that right?”
Sunset looked guiltily at the pegasus. “Oh.. yeah. Sorry about that.” She felt a pang of guilt in her stomach. “To tell you the truth, I don't even know the Wonderbolts.”
“Wait! So you... lied?”
It was at this moment that Pinkie Pie chose to break the fourth wall, jumping out of a nearby bookshelf, scattering its contents. “Wow, she pranked you good Dashy.” She giggled to herself before proceeding to jump into a nearby cup. Sunset trotted over to the cup and saw that it was empty.
“How did she do that?” She asked, genuinely concerned. Did she use some sort of teleportation spell? No she couldn't, she's an earth pony.
Rainbow rolled her eyes. “We gave up trying to find out long ago, it's better if you just roll with it.” She chuckled. “I have to admit, I never thought for a second you were pranking me. Nice one... but next time, make sure to go easy on me.” She flew off to talk with a nearby colt.
“Ah'm glad you two made up so quickly. So what did you actually say to her anyway? She didn't tell me the full story.”
“It's kind of embarrassing. I'll tell you about it later.” Sunset blushed.
“Ah'm gonna hold you to that.” Applejack smirked. “So anyway, now that you’re done with all that official business, what are your plans now?”
“Well I was intending to head back home to Canterlot...”
“What? And miss all the fun. This only happens once a year, why would ya want to miss it?”
“I see it every year, everyday in fact.” She looked at the ground. “It just doesn't seem that important.”
“Not important? How can you say that?” Applejack sighed. “It isn't just about the raisin' of the sun, sugarcube. It’s about what the day represents. About how we can all unite under one banner and strive towards a single goal, together...” Applejack smiled, and reached her hoof out to Sunset's chin, making the unicorn look her in the eye. “You'll see what ah mean tomorrow, as we watch the sun rise. Watch how all the ponies react and make sure yah think about what ah told ya.” Applejack suddenly became jovial. “Now enough with all this talkin', this is your party, so have a bit of fun.”
Pinkie Pie fell from the ceiling, holding a tray of cupcakes. “Now that's what I'm talking about!” She squealed excitedly. She hoofed a cupcake to the two ponies, a wide grin on her face. Applejack smirked at the pink pony.
“How do you always know the best times to appear?”
“I don't! I just do what the author tell me to do.” She giggled before bouncing off again.
“What is she talking about?” A nearby pegasus asked Sunset.
As the night went on, the party grew larger. Ponies were either talking to each other excitedly or dancing to the beat of Vinyl’s music. The centre of the library had been quickly converted into a dance floor and was now full of energetic ponies.
“Come on Fluttershy!” Pinkie begged. “It’s fun. All you have to do is walked in wiggle your booty like so,” Pinkie shook her rear in the and and did a twirl. “and walk out. No one is gonna notice. Just have some fun.”
Fluttershy inched under the table till only her eyes and ears were showing. “Um, I don’t know about this. I don’t really dance, plus what if someone notices me and makes fun of me.”
This time it was Applejack who spoke. “No one is goin’ to make ya. We’re all grown ups. If it makes ya feel any better Fluttershy, I’ll dance with ya.” The workhorse smiled at Fluttershy.
The timid pony looked around at her friends. “There’s no way out if this is there?” She sighed. “Fine I’ll dance.” She nervously got out of her seat and followed Applejack to the dance floor. She stopped at the edge of the lighted floor, looking at Applejack for support.
The orange mare saw her expression and smiled. “It’s alright, sugarcube. There is nothing to worry about. I’ll be with you the whole way.” She grabbed Fluttershy’s forehoof in hers and pulled her gently into the crowd. “Just keep your eyes on me, ok?” The pegasus whimpered in response.
Fluttershy focused her attention on her friend’s eyes. “Ok, Fluttershy, now just copy what I do.” Applejack started moving side to side with the beat, bobbing her head slightly. Fluttershy did the same, mimicking her friend’s movements. “Okay, now all you have to do is change the way you move a bit from time to time, so it doesn’t get boring.” Applejack added a few dance moves into the mix. Fluttershy tried to copy her but found it too difficult. Fluttershy let out a nervous squeak “Don’t worry gal. Just make up your own moves. Just close your eyes and move to the music. I’ll be right here.”
Fluttershy stared at her friend for several seconds before obeying her and closing her eyes. The ponies around her disappeared and only the music remained. She smiled to herself, feeling like she was just listening to music back at her house. She started moving her flank to the music, imagining her animals cheering her on.
The orange mare watched as her friend danced. At first she has simply swayed on the spot with her eyes closed but now she was in full swing. Fluttershy was now jumping on the spot, pumping her hoof in the air, a wide grin on her face. Soon a circle formed around the pegasus. Most ponies, if not all, had never seen Fluttershy dance before and damn was she good! Applejack watched her friend dance, smiling to herself, before noticing the crowd surrounding her. Oh no, this isn’t good.
Fluttershy kept on dancing, oblivious to the horde of ponies surrounding her. Her moves soon became more elaborate, even to the point that everyone in the entire library was watching her, cheering her on. The beat of the music picked up and so did the speed of Fluttershy’s dancing. The crowd cheered her on, shouting out words of encouragement. The pegasus kept on dancing, lost in the moment. In her head she saw her animals cheering for her, their exaltation encouraging her to continue. There squeak and jitter forming... words? She listened carefully. “-ttershy. go go, Fluttershy. Go go, Fluttershy. Go go, Fluttershy.” The words chorused over and over.
The yellow pegasus inched open her left eyes, and then opened them both in shock. Her scream filled the whole room. She was surrounded by a mob of ponies, all of them judging her, telling her to go away. She bolted out of the crowd tears in her eyes. “Fluttershy, wait!” Applejack called after her. The scared pony headed for the first door she could see, opened it and ran into the space behind it, the door slamming shut behind her. The music stopped. Everyone watched the door. Silence ensued.
No one spoke for several minutes. From the center of the crowd, Derpy finally broke the silence. “She does realise that’s a broom closet, right?” Everyone stared at her. “What? I’m just asking.”
Another mare spoke up. “Why did she run off like that?” More ponies joined the conversation.
“She was pretty good.”
“Where do you thing she learned to dance like that?”
“Do you think she will be willing to teach me?”
Applejack addressed the party. “You all continue with the party, I’m going to talk to her.” She turned to Vinyl, who was fiddling with her soundboard. “Put the music back on and get the party goin' again.” The DJ nodded, grinning to herself. If anyone could bring a party back to life it was her... or Pinkie. She alabaster mare flipped a few switches and the ground started to shake with bass. The speakers blaring back to life. The party was soon back with a vengeance.
Fluttershy was hunched over in a fetal positions, hugging her tail while also stroking it, quivering with fear. It's going to be ok, Fluttershy. They will forget this. You mean like at flight school? Fat chance! There never going to forget this. You're going to be the laughing stock of the town. Maybe it won't be that bad. Of course it will. Everyone is going to laugh at you forever.
A knock on the closet door halted her train of thought, or to be more accurate, cause the whole trail to derail and fall off a cliff. Fluttershy went stiff. All her muscles froze as she held her breath. “Fluttershy? Are you alright in there? Do you mind if I join you?” Fluttershy didn't respond, she only hugged her tail tighter. “I'm comin' in.” The door creaked open as Applejack poked her head around the corner. “How are you holdin' up?” Fluttershy buried her face in her tail. A squeak emanated from it. “It wasn't that bad, sugarcube, you were actually pretty good.”
Fluttershy kept her face hidden. “Then why were they telling me to leave?” She let out a sniffle. Applejack tilted her head, obviously confused.
“What are you talking about? They were cheering you on.”
“The-they were?” Fluttershy's ears perked up a bit, no longer remaining flat against her head.
Applejack grabbed Fluttershy's hoof. “Come back to the party. I promise I won't make you do anything you don't want to.”
The timid pegasus blinked a few times to clear away her tears. “You promise?”
“I would never lie to you. You're one of my best friends.” Applejack beamed. “Now c'mon, let's get out of her. A pony like you don't belong in some broom closet.” Applejack nudged open the door and trotted out. Fluttershy followed, but at a much slower pace.
The two ponies joined their friends back at the table where silence reigned for the next 5 minutes. Naturally Pinkie was the one to destroy the idea of silence. "Sooooooo. I'm gonna go get some punch, you girls want any?" She didn't wait for an answer.
"So how long till we have to head over to the town hall?" It was Rarity who spoke. "I wanted to be there a bit early for some last minute decoration. Applejack just stared at her.
"Why didn't ya just do it all why you were there?" Applejack sometimes found Rarity to be almost as confusing than Pinkie... almost.
"I work best under pressure, dear. It helps me to think faster." Rarity began tending to her mane idly.
Applejack muttered under her breath. "Obviously not as clearly though."
It was still an hour until the sun was scheduled to rise but already the town hall was filled to the brim with ponies waiting to see their princess in the flesh. Among the crowd were Sunset and her new ‘friends’. They had arrived two hours prior to everypony else to help Rarity with her last minute decorations, which consisted of adjusting ribbons and inching certain banners into place.
“Oh this is simply gorgeous. I must say that I have outdone myself.” Rarity squealed. Looking around at her work. “The princess is going to adore it. Thank you girls for helping me out.” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes.
“I don’t think she is going to notice the placing of ribbons. Why didn't you throw in something cooler like a statue or something. Maybe a sun.”
Rarity giggled at this. “Believe me my dear, I would have if I had been given the proper budget. You have to remember, this isn't Cloudsdale. We just don’t have the funds. The mayor was just lucky I was available to volunteer for this. I doubt anypony else here could have done better.” Rarity smiled smugly at this, while Applejack joined Rainbow Dash in rolling her eyes.
“Gettin’ a might bit cocky there don’t ya think Rarity?” Rarity responded to this by blushing. “Besides, we all helped set this whole thin’ up.”
Rainbow glanced over at Sunset. “Just curious Sunny, why exactly did Princess Celestia send you to Ponyville? Everything was going smoothly as it was.”
Sunset frowned at cyan pegasus. “I asked her the same thing. Besides, it’s not like I had a choice anyway. She is the princess and I’m...” She sighed. “I’m just her student.”
Applejack noticed the troubled look on Sunset’s face. “Hey Sunset. Do ya mind if ah talk to ya... in private?”
The orange unicorn looked at Applejack, confused, but reluctantly nodded her head “Uh, sure. I guess.” The two mares trotted over the side of the town hall, as most ponies were crowded around the center of the room, near the dais or balconies.
“What’s troublin’ ya?” The workhorse put her hoof on Sunset’s wither.
“Nothing's wrong.” Sunset said abruptly. She mentally kicked herself for sounding so defensive. Now the mare was going to know she was hiding something.
Applejack's features softened. “You can tell me what's wrong. We may have not been friends for long but you can always count on me for support. You can trust me.”
“It’s nothing you need to worry about.”
“Please, Sunset. Tell me what’s botherin’ ya.” The workhorse nudged the unicorn with her shoulder. “Maybe if you tell me you will feel better.”
“She... she doesn't trust me.” Sunset looked at the floor, a tear forming in the corner of her eye.
“Don’t worry about her. I know Rainbow can be sligh-”
“Not her...” The unicorn shrunk closer to the ground, her ears flattening against her head. “The pr-” The rest of the sentence was mumbled. Applejack leaned in to hear better.
“You’re goin’ to have to repeat that.”
“The princess!” Sunset raised her voice. A few nearby ponies looked around the large room, thinking someone had spotted the princess. “She doesn’t trust me.”
Applejack started to laugh. “That is the most absurd thing I have ever heard. You her prized pupil. If she trusts anyone, it’s you.”
“Then why does she only give me cryptic instructions, never give a straight answer. She’s always hiding things from me and never tells me the whole story.” Sunset’s sadness slowly boiled to anger. “She didn't even give me any advanced warning before tossing me into this.” She swung her hoof around the room. “She just threw me onto the chariot and sent me on my way, as if she couldn't wait to get rid of me.”
“Now just stop right there.” Applejack raised her voice slightly, but her tone was solid as a wall. “This is the princess you’re talkin’ about. She may not be direct with you but she probably has a good reason for doin’ so.” Applejack closed her eyes and sighed. “I wouldn’t be expecting my sister to be acting like this if I sent her on holiday, so why are you acting like this.”
“That is completely different! She is my teacher not my sister and this is not a holiday, this is menial work. I should be in Canterlot right now, relaxing. But she decides that I have to waste my time by making me check up on work that is already prepared.” A few ponies were now staring at the duo.
Applejack just stared at Sunset, barely blinking. No pony ever talked about princess Celestia like that. She glanced at the crowd around them. None of them knew who the topic of the conversation was, so none of them understood why she was so shocked. “I hardly think that this is a waste of your time. I mean, just look at all the friends you have made. Your pet dragon also seems to like it here as well. Besides, if you stayed in Canterlot, you wouldn't have been there to Fluttershy's dance.” Across the room, Fluttershy's ears folded against her head. She didn't know who but someone was talking about her.
Sunset let out a chuckle. “Yeah, she was pretty good, huh.”
“See? Not everythin’ the princess does is bad. If ya ask me, she was doin’ ya a favour by sendin’ ya here. If ya just get to know this town and its ponies, You may just come to like it.” Applejack smiled coyly. “Here a deal for you. You and your dragon stay for a little while longer, say a week or two. If you still think the princess is punishin’ you by sending you here, I will give ya a cask of Apple family cider for your troubles.”
“Only one, for a whole two weeks of waiting? I don’t know.” Sunset smiled playfully. “I don’t know if that’s worth my time.”
The workhorse frowned. “You really want to barter with me?” She rested her hoof on the bridge of her muzzle. “Fine, two should be enough.”
“Five.”
“Three.”
“Four. You can’t say no to that.” Applejack eyebrows furrowed. Obviously she could. “Oh fine, Three. You happy now?”
“I guess I could be happier. Fine. If you want three casks of cider, then I want to see you out with other ponies. No hiding at home while you are here.”
Sunset smiled at her victory. “Well, if I’m having to stay here for so long, I’m going to need a place to stay.” The library was nice, but ponies would be coming in and out to get books. She didn’t like her living space being intruded on. “Perhaps you could help me with that.”
“Nu-uh.” Applejack shook her head. “I’m already givin’ ya the cider as reward. You’re just goin’ to have to find your own place to sleep. Maybe you could ask some other ponies. But for now, it looks like you’re stuck here.”
“Guess that’s the best I can hope for, then.” Sunset trotted off towards the group. Soon the sun would rise and she could get some relaxation time in. “I may have to get Celestia’s permission though.” Sunset grimaced.
“You do what you have to do. But just understand, ponies do what they can to help those they love. Just give her a chance.” Sunset smiled a little.
"You have a lot of experience dealing with these kind of situations don't you?"
"You learn to deal with things like this when you have a little sister. Now if you're done, we have a party to get back to."
The crowd was getting more and more excited by the minute. Soon their beloved princess would stand before them, in all her radiant glory, and raise the sun. Conversations were loud and charged. Most ponies could barely contain their joy, there was even one pony named Berry Punch who thought it would be a good idea to start the festive drinking early. In the end she had to be banned from the refreshment table.
Fluttershy was with her birds preparing for their performance. Rarity was on the same balcony as where the princess would raise the sun, talking to herself nervously. Sunset was in the crowd idly talking to Pinkie, whilst Applejack and Rainbow Dash were in a heated discussion.
Pinkie leaned over to Sunset, a large smile plastered on her face. “Isn’t this exciting? Are you excited? ‘Cause I’m excited. I’ve never been so excited. Well, except for that time I saw you walking into town and I went,” Pinkie made a gasping sound. “but I mean really, who can top that? Oh wait, that was Twilight, not you.”
Immediately after Pinkie finished speaking Fluttershy’s birds launched into their fanfare, their music reverberating off the walls. Each bird’s song was perfectly matched with the next, all coming together into a beautiful harmony. Fluttershy flew in front of them conducting, her hooves moving in tune with the music. The room was now completely quiet, void of all sounds except for the music.
From one of the many balconies, a pony turned on a spotlight and guided the beam of light down towards the dais, on which Mayor Mare stood waiting. “Fillies and gentlecolts. As mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the summer sun celebration.” The crowd cheered loudly. The mayor waited for silence to return before continuing. “In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sun rise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year. And now, it is my great honour, to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria.”
The mayor paused her speech to add effect while Fluttershy spoke to her birds, preparing them for the next song. “Princess Celestia!” Another fanfare began. Rarity grabbed hold of the rope that would open the curtain to reveal Celestia and gave it a tug. The Violet curtains parted as the spotlight moved its light to the balcony and came to rest on... nothing. The princess wasn’t there. Rarity looked at the empty balcony and gasped. Murmurs and whispers spread through the crowd. Many different theories were going around but the main question on everyponies lips was 'where is the princess?'. One certain pony, seeing how distracted everypony was, took the opportunity to sneak a few more drinks from the refreshment table.
Rarity went in search of the princess while Mayor Mare attempted to keep the crowd under control. “Remain calm everypony, there must be a reasonable explanation.” Her voice was shaking. She didn’t deal well with stress.
Pinkie Pie started bouncing on the spot. “Oh, I love guessing games. Is she hiding?" Pinkie began looking around the room excitedly.
Rarity returned to the balcony with a bewildered look marring her face. “She’s gone.” A collective gasp came from the crowd.
Pinkie’s eyes widened. “Oh, she’s goooood.” Pinkie’s eyes then widened even further, this time her countenance was accompanied with a scream. A few ponies looked at her curiously, then followed her gaze to the balcony. A few others were already staring at the same spot. Another gasp went through the crowd. On the balcony an ethereal blue aura appeared began swirling and pulsating as they watched.
The strange entity parted down the middle revealing a dark alicorn adorned in a silver helmet and peytral with a moon placed in its center. The blue aura forming her mane and tail shimmering like the night sky. On her flank was a dark purple patch of fur with a crescent moon in its center. The dark mare stared at her captive audience, taking in every detail. All their confusion, all their fear. It was something she had not experienced in over a thousand years.
With a fake smile, she began her speech. “Oh my beloved subjects, it’s been so long since I’ve seen your precious little sun loving faces.” She practically spat out the last few words.
“What have you done with our princess?” Rainbow’s snarled, launching towards the alicorn, only to be held in place by Applejack.
The alicorn chuckled. “Why, am I not royal enough for you? Don’t you know who I am?”
Pinkie Pie smiled. “Oh oh, more guessing games. Um, Hokey Smokes, how about Queen Meanie. No, Black Snooty, Black Snoo-” Pinkie Pie was silenced by Applejack, who had force a cupcake into the party ponies mouth.
“Does my crown no longer count now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years? Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?” She scanned the crowd. “Surely there is one pony among you who must release who I am?" she scanned the crowd for answers, but none came. "very well then. Remember this day well ponies, for it was you last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!” The dark mare laughed menacingly. Her ethereal mane spreading, swirling around the room as if it caught in a harsh wind. As if on cue, Lightning shot out from the blue aura, accompanied by a deafening roar of thunder.
Mayor mare glared at the dark mare and yelled. “Seize her! Only she knows where the princess is.” On her command, three solar guards leapt into the air, their wings outstretched. As they neared the alicorn, her eyes began to glow, and a bolt of lightning launch towards the guards, throwing them to the ground like ragdolls. “Stand back you foals!” She glared at the crowd before her. The blue aura enveloped her and flew through doors of the town hall.
Everyone just stared, not knowing what to do. Then, as if someone had flipped a switch, everypony lost it. They began to run in every direction, screaming as they went. The few ponies that had managed to stay calm were collaborating with each other on ways to find the princess. This group mainly consisted of solar guards but there was one or two local mares also included.
Sunset looked around the chaos, trying to find a familiar face. Between the crowds of confused ponies she managed to catch a glance of purple scales and ran towards the owner. “Spike? Are you ok?”
“Oh, uh yeah. Have you seen Rarity anywhere?” The baby dragon looked around worried. Sunset arched her eyebrows. Of all the ponies he wanted to see, he wanted to see her?! Was she jealous? No, of course she wasn’t. “Oh, there she is!” Spike ran to the dais at the front of the room.
Rarity saw the little drake arrive. Sunset watched them as they talked but kept her distance. Maybe I am jealous? Pinkie bounced over to Rarity and whispered in her ear, before bouncing away. Rarity looked at her confused but then went back to her conversation with Spike. They talked for a while but eventually Spike ran back to Sunset. “Sunset, we’re all heading over to the library. Pinkie told Rarity that we might find out what to do there. Something about Pink sense.”
“Pinkie sense?”
“Rarity said to just roll with it.” Spike shrugged.
“So then I guess we better go with them, seeing as we technically live at the library.”
Books were strewn across the oak floor, and more and more books were still being added. “Pinkie? Are ya sure we are lookin’ in the right place?” Applejack pulled out a book with a red cover, a picture of a dragon was printed onto it. “What are we even lookin’ for anyways?”
“Anything. Everything. Just look for something with that mare in it.”
Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “And what makes you think she is going to be in a library book.” Rainbow Dash shivered at the word.
Fluttershy spoke in her soft voice. “Girls? I think I found something.” No one heard her. “Girls. I think this book might be important.” The others kept looking though the shelves. “There’s a picture of that mare in this boo-” Spike grabbed the book from the yellow pegasus.
“Hey guys, check this out. There’s a picture of that evil pony in here.” Sunset took the book with her magic. Isn’t this the book the princess gave me? The others gathered around her as she began to read.
“Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria.”
“Well… I guess that makes some sense.” Applejack shrugged. “Now we just have to find these element of harmony things. Keep looking girls, there must be a book or something about these element here somewhere.”
Each mare went to their own areas and began their search again. Sunset decided to go through the books on the floor in case the answer was buried beneath the pile. Each pony had gone through multiple shelves, placing each book I a pile next to it. Pinkie Pie however, had been standing in front of the same shelf for the past half hour, simply staring at it.
“Ugh!” Rainbow Dash groaned. “This is pointless! How do we even know if there is a book of these elements of harmony?” The others turned to face the disgruntled pegasus.
“We don’t.” Rarity said bluntly. “But we have to do something.”
“Well don’t know about you guys, but I have had enough of these books. You guys can keep searching, I’m going to find that mare.”
“Um, Rainbow? You got something under your wing.” Fluttershy whispered.
Rainbow flinched. Looking under her left wing was a book with a green cover. “Oh this.” She laughed nervously. “Must have got stuck there when I was searching through the books.” She opened her wing and allowed it to drop to the floor.
Rarity levitated the book so she could see its cover clearly. “Darling, reading is nothing to be ashamed of, especially when the book is written by such a good author. Although I myself am more into romantic novels.”
“I’m more into… quiet stories. I find adventure stories to be too fast paced for my liking.” Fluttershy said in a hushed tone.
“Aren’t we supposed to be searching for a clue on how to defeat Nightmare Moon?” Sunset asked.
Rainbow Dash, thankful for the interruption spoke. “Right. Let’s get back to work girls.”
“No need Dashy! I found it.” Pinkie screamed excitedly, holding a book above her head.
“When did you find that?” Applejack asked, her brow furrowed.
“About an hour ago.” She smiled innocently.
“You had it this whole time… and you didn’t tell any of us!” Rainbow was close to screaming. “We could be kicking butt right now.”
“I was just waiting for the right time.” She smiled again. “It wouldn’t be any fun if we just found it right away, would it?” Pinkie received a few glares from the group, but they didn’t say anything.
Sunset tore the book from Pinkie grasp, who kept on smiling, and read out a passage in her head. The others leaned over her shoulder, trying to get a good look. “So where are we headed?” Applejack asked.
“It says here that the elements are in the castle of the two sisters, in the… uh oh.”
“What. What’s wrong?”
“It’s in the… Everfree forest.” Sunset could visibly see a shiver pass through the group, except for Pinkie who was bouncing happily. “Rainbow, go find the Mayor. I need to speak with her.” Rainbow saluted and flew of an open window.
“Why do we need to speak with the mayor?” Rarity wondered.
“The Everfree forest is dangerous. On top of that we are also dealing with a mare that was able to defeat three royal guards without even blinking. We are going to need all the help we can get.”
At the border of the Everfree forest, a mob of ponies were waiting anxiously. A few ponies were still arriving, but most of the town was there, including the guards that had arrived with Celestia. Many of the ponies were holding makeshift weapons, ranging from wooden posts to pitchforks. One pony, a grey mare with a blonde mane, had somehow managed to get hold of sword, and was busy stabbing a nearby tree.
“This is all you could get. There is only six guards. What can they do against Nightmare Moon?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“I tried to get more diverted here, but every other guard is apparently busy keeping the populous controlled. Riots have broken out in the major cities. Everypony is frightened. The only reason we even have any in the first place is because they were already here.” The mayor had been arguing the same thing with the cyan pegasus for the last half hour.
“Are you serious?! This may be the only way to get the princess back, and they aren’t willing to send any guards?”
“I’m afraid not.”
Rainbow face hoofed. “I thought royal guards were meant to protect royalty.” She glared at a guard in the crowd. “Once we find Celestia, I’m going to have to talk to her about her security.”
“I agree darling. These must be the worst guards in Equestria.” Rarity raised her voice so the guards could hear her. “To let the princess be stolen from right under their noses is disgraceful.” This got her a few glares from most if not all the guards present.
“That is not the current issue now ladies. Our priority is getting through the forest unharmed.” Mayor Mare looked between the two. “I’m going to need you,” She looked to Rainbow Dash. “And any other pegasi we can spare, to scout from above to help any injured pony and get them out of harms way, if we are to get into any trouble.” Rainbow Dash saluted and flew off to gather the best fliers she could find.
“Do you really think we can beat her?” Applejack had a worried frown on her face.
“As long as we find those elements in time.” The mayor scanned the crowd, checking if everypony was present. “I guess this is the best we can hope for. Applejack, get everyone ready to leave.” Applejack trotted away to complete task. The mayor moved over to the nearest guard. “Excuse me.” She cleared her throat. “I want you and your men to scout the area ahead and make sure the path is cleared for the rest of us.”
The guard gathered in front of the forest before begrudgingly trotting in. Five minutes passed and nothing happened. Everypony waited, but nothing happened. Some had started to play some of the games Pinkie had brought along, including a very intense game of twister, which Pinkie Pie appeared to be winning. Berry punch was moving her left forehoof to a blue tile. The bushes at the edge of the Everfree rustled, breaking Berry’s concentration, which resulted in a pile of disoriented ponies and a giggling Pinkie Pie.
“Shh. I can see something.” Someone whispered. Everything was still. Somewhere nearby a twig snapped. Someponies visibly shivered. One of the bushes shook violently, then a guard fell out of it, the others falling next to him.
“Well? Is it clear?” The mayor asked.
The guard spat out a leaf. “Mostly. The flora is a bit difficult to pass, but nothing that could pose a danger to the civilians.”
“Perfect.” She turned to the now attentive crowd. “Sunset! Could you come here?” Sunset galloped to the front of the crowd princess.
“Yes mayor.”
“These elements… will they work?” A worried frown crossed the mayor’s face.
“I’m positive.” She grinned.
She sighed. “Then I guess it’s time.” The mayor went to the very edge of the Everfree and stopped. Everyone was now behind her, ready to follow her lead. Nothing happened. She just starred ahead, deep in thought. She had never been this close to danger before. What would happen to the town if something happened to her? A cheerful giggling cloud of pink flew past her ear. Pinkie bounced past the crowd and into the forest. Someponies shrugged and followed her into the woods.
The mayor stayed in the same spot, then hung her head in shame, before following the mob.
What kind of leader am I? I can't even walk into a bucking forest. Even Pinkie Pie is braver than me. She looked at the ponies around her and saw something she never expected. Even Flutershy is braver than me! Calm down, it is just a forest. You have to take charge. Show these ponies that you are worthy of leading them. She looked ahead and galloped to the front of the crowd, stopping next to Pinkie.
"Oh hey mayor. Whatcha doin?"
"Just making sure everything is fine." The mare responded nervously. "Want to make sure everypony is in tip top shape."
"Oh that's nice. Cinnamon bun?" Pinkie held the pastry in her forehoof.
"No thank you. I'm fine..." The mayor's head tilted in confusion. "where did you get that?"
"I was just holding onto it, just in case I got hungry." She stuff the pastry into her fluffy mane. What else has she got in there? Pinkie smiled, then slowed her pace to join the rest of the group, leaving the mayor at the front of the pack.
The mob was now travelling along the edge of a large cliff. Most ponies clung to the inner path. Sunset looked to the ponies around her, many were visibly shaking in fright, while others just looked worriedly at the drop below. Sunset tentatively peaked over the edge of the cliff, before returning to safety, swaying on her hooves, but not from fright. The ground was shaking. Sunset watched as cracks appeared in the ground, spreading at an alarming rate. Many ponies jumped for safety.
A large portion of the mountain fell taking an even larger portion of ponies with it, including Sunset. Sunset watched all the ponies around her, flailing and screaming in despair. The pegasi were catching all the ponies they could, but there were too many. Sunset saw the ground rush up to meet her. Concentrating her magic, a light surrounded her form and when in dissipated she was gone, appearing with a pop at the top of the cliff.
She glanced down at the carnage below. Earth ponies and unicorns lay on the ground far below, lying at awkward angle. Everyone stared in horror at what had just happened. A guard pegasi flew down to assess the situation. Her reached for one of the fallen ponies hooves and held it for several seconds. He looked up at the crowd and shout.
“There ok, mostly. Just severely injured. We need to get them to the hospital.” Everyone looked to Mayor Mare. It was up to her what happened next. She did a quick calculation in her head before nodding.
“I want the pegasi to take the wounded back to Ponyville. But I will need a few to remain her to scout ahead for any further dangers. From here on, I want unicorns to remain at the back, in order to lend assistance in any threat should befall us.” I’m getting good at this. Everypony nodded before going about their duty.
The remaining earth ponies went to the head of the pack and continued along the path, unicorns staying a few yards behind, away from danger. The few pegasi that had stayed were flying in circles above the group, constantly scanning for any disturbances.
Soon after everyone had relaxed, the pegasi dived to the ground, landing in the middle of the crowd. Rainbow managed to yell while also whispering. “There’s something up ahead. Something big.”
Pinkie bounced happily. “Any orders General?” She asked, directing her questing to the mayor.
Did she just call me General? “We need to be ready for anything. I want every earth pony to gather all the large rocks and boulders you can, quickly.” They ran off in search of the largest rocks they could find. “I need all unicorns to line up in two rows.”
The manticore felt a huge pain in its right paw. It felt like something was constantly stabbing at it. The large beast swiped at a nearby branch and brushed by a large bush, crawling into a clearing. That’s a lot of ponies. It looked in confusion at the large mass. It took a step forward. Its right paw sent another jolt of pain through its body, eliciting a pained roar from it.
The monster bared its fangs at them and let loose a terrifying roar. Mayor Mare mistakenly took this as an act of aggression. “First line, fire!” She shouted at the unicorns. Their horns lit up, their brows sweating in concentration. Large boulder rose above their heads then flew towards the manticore. The first few missed, but one or two found their mark, but only succeeded in making it angry. “Second line, fire!” The first line stepped back, the second stepping up to the mark. Boulders already raised, they fired in quick succession. This time they were more accurate and scored a few good hits. But now the beast was charging. “Open fire!” Each unicorn grabbed the nearest thing they could and flung it at the monster. Sunset looked around her, but all the good ammunition had already been used. She saw a half buried boulder, the size of a small house, and concentrated. The rock was barely moving and she was already exhausted. Slowly the rock began to rise from the ground, dirt and smaller pieces of rock falling from it. Raising it into the air, she tossed it as hard as she could at the charging beast. The beast’s eyes widened as it saw the enormous object fly toward it. Only letting out a small scream as it was crushed.
Silence overtook the forest. Everything was still. Sunset breathed heavily, sweat dripping from her muzzle. The silence was soon shattered by a loud cheer. Everypony galloped towards Sunset and congratulated her on the victory. Sunset accepted attention given to her, even posing for a few seconds.
At the edge of the clearing, a dark shadow watched the cheering crowd, a devious smile stretched across its face. “Such viciousness, to cheer in the presence of death. It seems things haven’t changed much in Equestria after all these years.” She focused more on the mare being celebrated. “Maybe that mare could be of use to me.”
The trees were growing closer together, making the already dark night, even darker. Although it was actually closer to midday, it seemed as if it was midnight. The few rays of moonlight that did leak through the tree canopy barely made the scenery any less spooky. If anything it made the forest look ominous.
As they continued, the trees changed, from clean and uniform to gnarled and bent. Soon even the rays of the moon were blocked out, leaving the group in complete darkness. Ponies huddled closer together for comfort, making sure they stayed within a hoof width from each other, fearing that they would get lost.
A hushed whisper picked up, getting louder and louder. Ponies looked around, trying to figure out who was whispering. “Keep it down. There may be more creatures nearby.” One stallion spoke up. The whispering grew louder. A dim red light appear within multiple trees, revealing twisted snarls and malicious grins. They whispering grew even louder. A few ponies scream in fright, others almost fainted. A circle of mangled trees appeared around them, each scared with a jagged face. They all pressed together in the middle of the circle, like a herd of scared animals, the ponies on the outside of the circle were facing towards the trees. The trees remained in place, whispering some chant over and over.
Pinkie jumped out from the cowering crowd, bouncing towards one of the trees. “Pinkie what are you doing!?” Rainbow shouted next to Fluttershy, who still crying about the deceased manticore.
The pink mare started to giggle at the tree, going right up to its wooden face and making funny faces. It would have been funny, if it wasn’t so terrifying. “Pinkie! Get away from them. You’re going to get hurt.”
“Don’t you see?” Pinkie cleared her throat and began to sing. “When I was a little filly, and the sun was going down- Hey! What are you doing?” An orange aura surrounded Pinkie, raising her into the air and floated her back to the crowd. “I was just getting started.” Sunset just stared at her, obviously unamused. Sunset turned her attention towards the trees, focusing her magic on them. Slowly the red glow drew dim, then vanished completely, along with the whispers.
“It was only a spell everypony. Just some trick to scare us.” She looked into the darkness around them. There was nothing there. That’s what concerned her. Most illusion spells require the caster to be present, except high level spells.
They continued their march through the forest. Soon the forest around them became brighter, revealing the moon high in the night, or possibly day sky. The trees soon became sparse, revealing a large river, its rapid tide splashing water onto the banks.
A mare near the front of the crowd, with navy blue and pink hair spoke. “How are we supposed to cross this?”
Sunset shouted up to the pegasi flying above them. The small group of pegasi consisted of Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Cloud Kicker and Derpy. “Can you see anywhere we can cross from up there?”
Rainbow was the one to answer. “Not even a log, looks like we are going to have to fly you over.”
Derpy looks into the distance. “What about that purple, squiggly log over there Rainbow?” She pointed down the river. Rainbow followed her hoof and saw the object she was talking about. A large purple serpent was flailing its body, sending large waves through the water, causing the rapids in front of them. Rainbow flew down to Sunset and told her about the disturbance.
“Hm. Does it look like it is going to stop anytime soon?” Rainbow looked up a Derpy, who simply shrugged.
“Not likely.”
“Then we have to find a way to make it stop. Any ideas? Anyone?” A murmur spread through the gathering, but no pony offered any suggestions. Fluttershy mumbled an idea, but it fell upon deaf ears, her voice being drowned out by the whispers of the crowd.
Sunset looked at the rapids in front of them, then at the forest around them. “I have an idea.” Everypony leaned forward to listen. Pinkie leaned so far forward that she ended up falling over, a small gasp escaping her mouth as she landed. “I need everyone to gather wood from the forest and bring it back here.” The group dispersed to find suitable materials. Some ponies returned within minutes, carrying small branches, earning a small glare from Sunset. After berating them for a couple of minutes, they skulked off to find bigger pieces of wood. Others returned much later but with rather sizable logs. One pony, who had obscenely large muscles, returned dragging an entire tree behind him, screaming ‘yeah!’ with every step.
Soon Sunset had a generous pile of wood in front of her. Once again she concentrated hard, focusing her magic, she begins to manipulate the wood, slowly bending and binding each piece together. Slowly a shape begins to form. Sunset moves the object ever the river and releases it. It comes down with a massive splash, soaking most ponies and leaving their fur dripping.
Floating on the river now sat a large, if not clumsy, boat. Splintered pieces of wood stuck out of the boat at random intervals and the hull looked as if someone had grabbed a mallet and had a playdate with it. The boat swayed in the large waves but stayed afloat. It looked large enough to fit most of the ponies there, but it would be cramped. Sunset made a few final adjustments to the boat, then jumped onboard.
“Well? What are you all waiting for, an invitation?” The throng of ponies slowly inched toward the boat, eyeing carefully, scared that it would fall apart when they got on. Sensing their thoughts, Sunset said dryly. “It’s not going to break, get on.” A small fragment of the herd boarded the boat, but the majority were still wary of the boat. How could something so… jagged, take their combined weight? Sunset glared at them. “I said get. On. The. Boat.” She snarled through gritted teeth.
Heads hung low, the group climbed on the boat. With each new passenger, the boat sank lower into the water. Now the boat was practically over flowing with ponies, but a minority of ponies still remained on the shoreline of the river. “Didn’t you hear me? I said get on.” She yelled at them.
Rarity leaned over to Applejack and whispered in her ear. “When did she become so bossy? I know this is technically her boat, but it doesn’t mean she has to yell. Personally I can’t blame them for being scared. This thing looks as if it would fall apart in seconds.”
“I have to do everything around her don’t I?” Sunset grabbed the remaining ponies in her aura and tossed them onto the boat. The boat sank below the water line for a moment but then returned to its normal height. A small layer of water now covered the deck. Rarity hopped about, trying not to get her hooves wet, Pinkie however started splashing the water around. Seeing that everyone was now on the boat, Sunset turned to the royal guards, who actually flinch. This made Sunset smile a little.
“Well you might as well make yourselves useful and row the boat.” The guards looked to the mayor pony for confirmation, who in turn looked at Sunset for confirmation. “Well, what are you waiting for? I told you to row.”
Applejack leaned over to whisper in Rarity’s ear. “A bit of a control freak huh?” Rarity nodded her agreement.
“I thought Canterlot ponies were meant to be sophisticated. I just hope the prince isn’t like her.” The boat began to move forward inch by inch.
“Let’s just hope she isn’t like this for the rest of the trip.”
Rainbow hovered above them. “It’s probably just stress guys. Wouldn’t you go a bit nutty if you mentor was kidnapped by some crazy lunatic?”*
Rarity’s ear flattened against her head. “I would be distraught.”
Applejack stared at the ground. “I guess you’re right, but that still doesn’t mean she can treat ponies like that.” Applejack paused to think. “I’m gonna go talk to her.”
Sunset was focusing on the far banks of the river, staring intently at the shadows on the other side. Something was there, watching them. She just knew it. Sunset let out a startled scream when something grabbed her shoulder. Sunset turned around. “Oh, it’s just you Applejack. Sorry, my mind was elsewhere.”
“I can see that.” The workhorse let out a small chuckle, before her expression turned serious. “Listen, I’ve noticed that you have been a bit… edgy as of late. Is everything ok?”
“Yeah, just a bit exhausted from all that’s happened recently. Especially with all the strain on my magic. It’s not every day you fight a manticore.”
“I can’t argue with that.” An awkward silence hung in the air.
“Applejack? Do you think we can do it?” Applejack froze.
“What do you mean?” She tilted her head in confusion.
“Do you think we can defeat Nightmare Moon?”
Applejack stared at the ground for a moment, deep in thought. Sunset was about to speak, but the orange mare beat her. “Honestly, I don’t know. She looks like a very powerful mare and she was able to ponynap Celestia. If she was able to get the best of Celestia, what are the chances that we can hurt her?” Sunset’s ears were folded against her head. “That’s why we need to find these elements of harmony.” The boat lurched forward and came to a halt, they had arrived at the other side of the river. Everypony leaped off the boat, glad to finally be on the ground again. “Well looks like we can go now. I’ll let you go ahead, I have something I need to talk about with the girls.” She left before Sunset could respond.
Sunset trotted to the front of the crowd. The forest was calmer here and seemed to part as they got closer, revealing a definite path for them to follow. Behind her, Sunset could here everyone whispering. Nothing about her, but the journey in general mostly. Occasionally she heard a comment about Nightmare Moon, but the topic generally related to Celestia. Soon the forest parted entirely, to reveal an ancient stone structure. Most of the castle was now in ruins and only a crumbling entrance was visible, with an age-old oak door barring the way. Between them and the castle was a deep ravine filled with fog, hiding how deep it really was.
“I was starting to think we would never get here.” Rainbow burst.
“At least now we don’t have to deal with that dreadful forest.” Rarity made a show of checking her hooves for dirt. “I don’t think my hooves could have taken much more of that vile place.”
Applejack snorted derisively. “Of everythin’ we just went through, you’re concerned about the dirt?”
“I’ll have you know, I spent a great deal of time getting to this level of beauty. I am not about to let some tacky forest ruin it.”
Rainbow Dash mumbled under her breath. “A bit too late for that.” The group had now moved to the edge of the ravine, leaving Applejack, Rarity and Rainbow Dash bickering with themselves.
A mare with aqua fur went to the edge of the cliff and looked down into its depths. “Wow. This thing must go on forever. Good thing there’s a bridge, Bon Bon.”
The pony next to her responded. “Well, most of a bridge at least.” She pointed to were the bridge now hung, surrounded by mist. The rope moving in the mild breeze.
“That’s easily fixed. We just need a pegasus to fly down and tie the ropes to the supports on the other side.”
“I’ll do it.” They both turned and were surprised to find a grey mare with bright blonde hair.
Bon Bon looked at her worriedly. “Are you sure Derpy? With your um… past history with flying, I think it is best for someone else to do the job.” Derpy’s eye began to water. “It’s nothing personal Derpy, honest.” Derpy walked back into the crowd with her head hung low.
The mayor and Sunset stood next to each other, both looking over the crowd for a suitable candidate to fix the bridge. It was a simple job, but there was always the chance of something dangerous happening.
“We could send Bulk Biceps. He would be able to defend himself if there is danger.”
“No, he is too clumsy. He wouldn’t be able to tie the bridge securely.”
“What about Cloud Kicker?” The mayor retorted.
“Which one is she?” The mayor pointed into the crowd at a pegasi with light purple fur, with yellow and orange hair. Cloud noticed the mayor was pointing and her, and hid behind a nearby colt.
“No, she is too timid. She would flee if a twig snapped.” The mayor sighed.
“Well the only other suitable pegasi would be Rainbow Dash, but if we send her she is going to brag about her heroics for the next few hours.”
“She isn't that vain. All she has to do is fly over and tie a piece of rope. She can’t really boast about that.”
Rainbow’s ears twitched. Someone was talking about her. She broke off from her conversation with Rarity and scanned the area around her. “Hey Rainbow!” She flew into the air and saw the mayor with Sunset, both were beckoning her over. She quickly flew to them and landed with a skid.
“You needed something?”
“As you can see, the bridge need to be retied. We need you to fly over there and fix it so that we can cross.” The mayor was the one who spoke.
“And you choose the perfect pony for the job. I’ll have it done in ten seco-”
“Yes, we get it Rainbow Dash, just do it please.” The mayor got a feeling of Déjà vu. The cyan pegasus saluted before flying down into the ravine. Seconds later she flew back up and landed on the opposite side, holding in her mouth a frayed rope.
As soon as her hooves hit the ground, she heard a mare’s voice echo out her name. Rainbow dropped the rope with a small gasp. “Who’s there?” The voice called out her name again. She got onto her hind legs and started punching the air dramatically. “I ‘aint scared of you. Show yourself!” The voice spoke again, this time coming from the fog to her left.
“We’ve been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the best flier in Equestria.” She still couldn’t see anyone.
“Who?” Rainbow frowned.
“Why, you of course.” Rainbow’s ego jump up into the air, pleading for attention.
“Really?! I mean, oh yeah, me. Hey, you wouldn’t mind telling the Wonderbolts that, would ya? ‘Cause I’ve been trying to get into that group, for like, ever.”
“No Rainbow Dash, we want you to join us. Three shadows appeared from the fog and revealed three ponies. Two colts and one mare in the middle. They skidded to a stop in front of her. “The Shadowbolts.” The two colts were dark grey in colour, while the mare a light grey. Each of them wore a black and purple uniform, with a skull symbol on their flanks. “We are the greatest aerial team in the Everfree forest and soon we will be the greatest in all Equestria. But first we need a captain.” Rainbow’s eyes twinkled with glee, matching the giant grin on her face. Her ego was now the size of the moon. “The most magnificent.”
“Yep.”
“Swiftest.”
“Yes.”
“Bravest flier in all the land.”
“Yes, it’s all true.”
“We need,” The mare leaned in and whispered in her ear. “You.”
Rainbow jumped into the air and used her wings to hover a few meters above the ground. “Woohoo! Sign me up.” She flew down to the bridge supports. “Just let me tie this bridge real quick, and then we have a deal.”
The mare flew right up to her face. “No! It’s them or us.”
“It shouldn't take this long to fix a rope bridge. What is taking her so long?” Sunset’s brow furrowed. She heard a loud cheer from across the gap. She peered across to the other side, but the fog was now too thick. “Did she fix it yet?” A gap in the fog appeared, revealing a grey pegasus mare in a dark uniform, leaning menacingly over Rainbow Dash. She was in danger!
The fog thickened again, hiding them from her sight. Sunset charged her horn, ready to fire. I just hope I remember where she was. She released a bolt of magic from her horn, into the fog.
Rainbow leaned back uneasily. Help Ponyville, or join a pro flying team? Have a chance at her life long dream, or help her friends?
"Well?" The mare leaned in further. Forcing Rainbow closer to the ground. Dash looked the mare in the eyes, still slightly nervous.
"You." The other mare grinned victoriously, her face was visibly brighter now. Too bright actually. Rainbow looked to her right just in time to see a bright turquoise pulse of magic pierce the fog. Rainbow jumped back instinctively, but The Shadowbolt leader was not as quick. She watched as the pulse of energy made contact with the mares face. The mare screamed as she was thrown into the wall of the castle, a contrail of smoke following her.
Rainbow galloped to her side. "Are you ok?" The answer was obvious. The mare was curled of into a ball, her hooves pressed against her face. Small trails of smoke came off her. "Stay right here, I'm going to get some he-" The Shadowbolt began to laugh. It started as a small snicker, then into a chuckle but soon evolved into a howl. How can she be laughing about this?!
"Your friend sure is powerful, isn't she?" The mare stood up, but still had one hoof covering the left side of her face.
"We really need to get you to a doctor."
"I have no need of a medic. Do you really think such a weak attack could harm me?" Rainbow cringed.
"That looks pretty painful to me. Seriously, you should get that checked out." Rainbow went over to the bridge and tied it up quickly. "I'm going to get you some help." She then jumped into the air and flew across the gap.
"NO!" The Shadowbolt leader yelled. "You are to stay here." Rainbow didn't hear her.
Rainbow burst through the fog, almost crashing into Sunset. "Sunsethurrymareinjured." The cyan pegasus pointed through the mist. "Something hit her, she's hurt."
"Slow down Rainbow." The mayor interrupted. "What is wrong."
"Rainbow slowed her breathing. "I was talking to this mare, she wanted me to join her flying team. I was about to say yes but then some light beam thingy, hit her in the face. Now she's hurt and needs help." Sunset shrunk away.
"How bad is she injured."
"I don't know. Her hoof was pressed against her face, but it looked bad. I tied the bridge, so the doctor can help, hurry."
"Well if the bridge is fixed, then we can send the whole town across."
The mayor sent across the doctor first, then soon the whole town followed. The bridge strained under the effort but surprisingly held together. When Sunset reached the other side, a circle had formed around the doctor and his patient. The mare was still on the ground with her hoof held against her face. The doctor was trying to get her to move it so he could help.
Rainbow pushed to the front of the crowd. "Is- is she ok?"
"I can't tell, she won't let me see her face." The Shadowbolt mare mumbled something. "What was that." Everyone went quiet.
"You want to see my face?" She spoke is a whisper. "So be it." The mare removed her hoof revealing black fur underneath.
The doctor moved his hoof toward her face. "Let me take a look at your bur-" He pulled back.
Rainbow flinched. "What's wrong?" The mare began to laugh.
"She isn't burnt. Her fur is black." He back away slowly.
"Looks like he figured it out first." A confused murmur spread through the herd. The dark mare got up to her full height, but somehow managed to get even taller. Her muzzle extended and her wings expanded. As her fur grew darker, her uniform vanished. Everypony gasped. Now in the centre of the crowd stood their foe, Nightmare Moon. Everyone was paralysed with surprise.
"Wha-what are you doing here?" Rainbow burst.
"What? Can't your rightful ruler walk through her own kingdom? Tsk tsk. I should be the one asking. Why are you all here, hm?"
"That's none of your business." Rainbow shouted.
Sunset recovered from the shock. "Where have you taken her!?"
Nightmare turned to face the unicorn. "Who?"
"Celestia! Where have you taken Celestia?!"
"I asked first, and I'll ask again, why are you all here?"
Pinkie jumped into the air. "We're throwing a party!"
"A party you say?" She grinned deviously. "Celebrating what, might I ask?"
Pinkie grinned nervously. "Celebrating, uh um."
Rarity intervened. "Celebrating you of course."
Nightmare Moon chuckled. "Do you really think I am blind to your plan. You foals. You think I don't know of what you are seeking." Everypony glared at her.
Applejack moved towards her. "Ya may know the elements, but that ain't gonna stop us from gettin' them."
"You seriously believe you can stop me. Well then go ahead, oh wait, that's right. You don't have the elements do you. Even your most powerful unicorn could barely singe my fur. You think you, a simple earth pony, can defeat me?"
"I'm not alone, remember." On cue everypony moved in on the dark mare, the unicorns readying them magic. Nightmare Moon looked around at the crowd. She was surrounded.
"While I would relish the opportunity to put you all in your place, I came her for a reason. And I am not leaving empty hoofed!" Nightmare Moon leaped forward and tackled Rainbow to the ground. Everypony galloped forward to stop her, but before anyone could get close, Nightmare Moon charged her horn and in a bright flash, they disappeared.
"What the hay? Where did they go?" Applejack asked, to nopony in particular. Sunset listened as the crowd began to whisper. They do that a lot.
"This doesn't look good. We need to find those elements quick, before more of us are ponynapped." Sunset spoke to Rarity, who simply nodded in agreement.
"And how exactly are we meant to find her?" Applejack said. "Unless you can track teleporting spells we ain' got a chance."
The mayor was the next to speak. "She could be anywhere."
Pinkie hopped in place. "Why don't we check the spooky castle?"
"Why in the wide world of Equestria would she teleport to where we're going."
Sunset shrugged. "We need to get the elements anyway, so it couldn't hurt to search it at the same time."
"I suppose, but what are the chances?" The mayors ears sagged.
Sunset turned her attention to the crowd. "Just to be safe, we will go into the castle in groups of five, so if one group is ambushed the next can assist." A lot of ponies hid behind others so they wouldn't be chosen first. Sunset mumbled under her breath. "Cowards." She spoke so people could hear. "Applejack, Pinkie, Rarity and Fluttershy? You're with me."
Fluttershy let out a 'meep'. "Me? Um, I could understand Applejack, cause she's strong, but why me."
"You're all friends of Applejack, only seems fair you girls help first, that and I don't really know anyone else here."
"Maybe I could stay here and help... um. Oh fine." She crawled forward slowly.
"Great. Now the rest of you form groups of five and come in one minute apart from each other." The crowd shuffled uneasily.
The ground of five mare trotted into the castle passing the stone archway into a large open room, complete with a missing roof. In the centre stood a large granite pedestal with five stone arms reaching out at different angles. Each arm carried a large orb with runes etched onto it. On the central pedestal sat the largest of all the spheres, four times larger than the rest. The group stopped. Rarity leaned back, slightly surprised.
"Is that it? There just sitting here in the first room? That's a tad convenient."
"Kinda good thin' though. At least is wasn't in a hidden dungeon or something."
"I suppose, but I still think it's a bit quick."
"Well this is the pilot. You can't expect a lot of plot just yet." Pinkie argued.
"What?" They all stared at pinkie bewildered.
"What the hay are ya talkin' about."
"Nothing. Just something that popped into my head."
"Um, ok." Rarity inched away from Pinkie, then whispered to Sunset. "I swear if there were more than one of her, the town would go crazy."
Sunset giggle. "I can imagine." Sunset turned her attention to the orbs. " Okay girls, Prepare yourselves. These things may be booby trapped."
Pinkie giggled and whispered in Rarity's ear. "Hehe, she said bo-" Rarity stuff a hoof in Pinkie's mouth, obviously unamused by Pinkie's antics.
A green aura surrounded Sunset's horn, the orbs became surrounded in the same aura, before slowly lifting off their podiums. Sunset tensed, expecting some mechanism or dangerous spell to activate. But nothing happened.
"That's odd. I was sure something this ancient and powerful would have been protected." She set the globes down on the stone surface. "Finally. Now we can-"
"Uh, Sunset. There's only five."
"What?!" She counted the orbs before her, there were only five. "Maybe it's the big one." She attempted to levitate the larger orb on the centre pedestal, but it didn't budge.
Pinkie leaned over to Sunset. "Didn't the book say some like, when the five are present a spark will cause the sixth element to be revealed."
Applejack raised an eyebrow. "That's exactly what it said Pinkie. How do you- no never mind."
"I just hope this works."
"Hope what works?"
Sunset didn't respond. Sunset's magical aura surrounded the elements. They didn't move, but Sunset's magic seemed to change and pulse, like water pushing against a rock.
Pinkie froze in place. "Uh, girls."
"Not now Pinkie, I'm concentrating."
"This is kinda important."
"Unless Nightmare Moon is sneaking up on us, I don't want to hear it."
"Oh, well in that case, Nightmare Moon is sneaking up on us."
"Very funny Pinkie." Sunset ceased her spell on the elements and turned to Pinkie. Her eyes widened and her jaw dropped simultaneously.
A large blue shimmering cloud was heading straight for them. Applejack went to tackle it, but it passed straight through. She landed on the ground, and stopped moving. The cloud was still charging, but not towards them, but the elements. It flew in circles around the elements like a Twister, and began to move the elements into the air, where they started to spin with the cloud.
Sunset yelled. "No, I have not come all this way to return empty hoofed." Sunset charged forward, and jumped into the cloud.
They watched as the cloud shrunk and disappeared in a flash, taking Sunset, and the elements with it.
"Where did she go?" Rarity asked to no one in general.
"We have to help her." Fluttershy squealed.
"Well we can't very well help her when we don't know where she is, can we?"
"Applejack. Are you ok?" Rarity turned and saw Fluttershy leaning over the limp body of Applejack.
"Oh my!" Rarity ran over to assist. "Um, Pinkie, you find Sunset while we help her, ok?" Pinkie galloped of toward and archway that Rarity honestly thought wasn't there a second ago.
Rarity turned back to face Applejack only to be pushed away by Fluttershy. "Darling, what are you doing?" Rarity moved forward again, only to be pushed back again.
"Give me space to work." Fluttershy almost yelled, or at least her version of yelling. Either way it scared Rarity enough to keep her distance. "Applejack I'm just going to flip you onto your back, ok?" No response. Fluttershy grabbed Applejack's shoulder and rolled her over. "Okay, this may be a bit awkward and I'm sorry. Please don't tell anyone about this Rarity." Fluttershy leaned over the limp ponies head. Rarities eyes widened when their mouths connected and Fluttershy began to perform CPR. Rarity barely moved. Please let her be alright.
Fluttershy was thinking the exact same thing.
Her vision was blurry. All she could see were grey outlines, and in a grey castle, that made things rather difficult. Slowly her vision began to return, showing that they were in another part of the castle. The room was vast and had large pillars lining the walls. The room wasn't very noticeable apart from a raised platform which probably used to hold a statue. But at the current moment the platform was occupied by a large, dark alicorn mare, laughing chaotically, the elements of harmony orbiting her. For some apparent reason, whenever Nightmare Moon laughed, lighting was summoned to emphasise her insanity, and that was still the case, as the following thunder echoed around the room.
"Give those back!" Sunset got up on to her hooves.
"You're a smart mare, right? Then tell me, why should I give you the only thing that can defeat me?" Sunset was taken aback by this. She had been expecting a fight. "It was a simple question." The dark alicorn smiled condescendingly.
"Because... Because they're not yours." Sunset yelled. Nightmare laughed at this.
"Actually, by definition, these belong to Equestria, so seeing as I am now it's ruler, ownership reverts to me. Any other reasons, my dear."
Sunset snarled. "Stop playing games. You are not the ruler of Equestria, you are a tyrant. Now give those to me." Sunset charged at the alicorn, which given the distance between them, was a poor attempt at a surprise attack.
Nightmare rolled her eyes. "Oh please. What do you hoped to achieve with such poor tactics." She summoned a bolt of lightning, which struck the ground directly in front of Sunset. The shockwave alone sent Sunset flying, the chunks of stone from the from left a few more noticeable marks. Sunset slowly got up, wincing with every movement. "Stay down foal, you'll only injure yourself further, and believe it or not, I don't want that." Sunset only glared at her.
"Why do you care what happens to me?"
"As ruler of Equestria, it is my duty to ensure their safety."
"Well, your doing a great job so far." Sunset snarled. This got a chuckle from the mad mare.
"Believe what you will, but I do not intend to spend the rest of my eternal life alone. I have already had enough solitude."
Sunset flinched in pain. "What are you talking about?"
"Do I have to spell it out to you." She sighed. "I want you to join me."
Sunset pause, obviously taken back by Nightmare Moons words. After several seconds of silence Sunset spat. "Why would I join you?"
This made Nightmare Moon laugh. "Because I have something you want."
"You've already made it clear that you don't intend to surrender the elements."
"You are correct there. No, I intend to trade you some else. Your loyalty for," Her horn charges and in a bright flash, a cage appeared next to her. "Your friend."
In the cage sat a pegasus with a Rainbow mane. The mare looked around startled, and her eyes soon landed on Nightmare Moon.
"You!" Rainbow leapt against the cage, her left hoof reaching between the bar, trying to grab the alicorn, but only missing by inches. "Let me out of here, and fight like a mare." She only responded by rolling her eyes.
"Well, what will it be? Rules with me and I'll let your friend go, or serve under me and leave her imprisoned?" Rainbow took a moment to register this, then looked at the cage she was in. She winced.
"Don't do it Sunset!" Rainbow yelled. "Take the elements and run."
Nightmare turned to Rainbow, glaring at her. Rainbow was about to yell again, but a magical barrier appeared on her mouth, stopping her from shouting. "Think about Sunset. With me as your mentor, you can become the most powerful unicorn alive. What has Celestia taught you? Cheap parlour tricks and useless spells?" Sunset didn't respond, but Nightmare read her expression. "That's what I thought. She doesn't trust you with powerful magic? Doesn't treat you with the respect you so rightfully deserve." Sunset didn't see it, but Rainbow was shaking her head vigorously. "You deserve so much more than that and as my pupil, you will get everything you deserve." She let that hang ominously over Sunset.
"But... What about everyone else, what will happen to them?"
"Everyone will have their place in my kingdom. I will not let any of them be left behind, as long as they serve me. You needn't worry about them." Rainbow was trying to get her attention but Sunset was staring at the ground, deep in thought.
"What about the sun?" Nightmare Moon took a step back.
"What about it?" There was a slight look of anger on her face.
"Will we ever see it again?"
Nightmare Moon thought on this for a while. "Perhaps, in time. If you do serve me, I may bring out the sun on occasion." It was obvious that it hurt the alicorn to say this.
Sunset was about to respond but was distracted by a loud clatter of hoofs on stone. From the entrance of the roof, Pinkie arrived. "Finally! This castle is huge. There was even this room with rows of pony armour." Pinkie took a few heavy breaths. "What was I here for again? Oh yeah! Sunset don't listen to whatever it is she's saying, even if it involves cake! Oh a balloon." Nightmare moon had summoned a balloon and sent it back the way Pinkie had come from. Pinkie bounced off after the balloon.
"Are there going to be anymore interruptions?" She asked no one in particular. "Good, now what is your choice? I'm not on for patience so you might want to choose quickly. Just remember what I am offering you."
Sunset had a look of deep concentration on her face. After what felt like hours but was only a few minutes, Sunset sighed. "I'll do whatever you ask, just let Rainbow go." Sunset didn't look happy about her choice but she wasn't showing any sign of regret either. Rainbows expression switched from one of worry to one of anger. She starting pounding on the cage, trying to yell something at Sunset but her muzzle as still gagged.
"Excellent choice my dear, now if you excuse me I have some citizens that need... convincing." Nightmare Moon disappeared in a flash, and at the same time a key appeared in front of Sunset. Rainbow also felt the magical gag around her mouth disappear.
"What the hay Sunset! Why did you do that!" Sunset didn't respond, but kicked the key over to Rainbow Dash. Dash grabbed the key in her hoof and unlocked cage door. But when she got out, Sunset was gone.
Fluttershy kept switching between breathing air into Applejacks lungs and pushing on her sternum, hoping to bring the mare back. She was breathing more air into Applejacks lungs when Nightmare Moon appeared behind Rarity. Seeing the tall mare she scream, but it wasn't that audible, not because of her usually soft voice, but because her mouth was still pressed against the deceased mares.
Rarity saw Fluttershy's expression and turned. Her reaction, to say the least, was dramatic. With a quick scream, Rarity put her hoof on her brow and feinted, for the first time in a long time it was not fake.
The dark mare looked at Rarity, uninterested, then turned her attention to Fluttershy. But what she saw, she wasn't expecting. She had been expecting the mare to be cowering in the corner, but instead what she saw was a pony seething with rage.
Fluttershy moved before she could react. Fluttershy leapt at her and tackled Nightmare Moon to the ground, all the while screaming at her. "How could you do this? What did she ever do to you?" Fluttershy brought her hoof down and hit the alicorn across the muzzle. She raised her left forehoof and brought it down again, this time hitting Nightmare Moon's neck. Without thinking, Nightmare shoved the rage filled Pegasus off her. Fluttershy tried to attack again but was held in place by magic.
Nightmare Moon coughed, rubbing her throat with her hoof. "I must say, this was not the reaction I was expecting from you. The Rainbow one perhaps, but not you." Fluttershy kept screaming at her. "Cease your yammering!" She cast the spell she had used to silence Rainbow on Flutershy, and she became silent. "If you were to listen, before letting your emotions take control, you would have heard my offer. You care about your friend yes?" Before Fluttershy could respond, not that she could, Nightmare Moon continued. "I can save her, you see, it was my magic that did this, it is my magic that can fix her. But I have one condition. You are to serve me as my personal slave, you are to do as I ask and follow my orders. Just remember that your friends life," She paused for effect. "Is in your hoofs." The magic around Fluttershy's mouth dissipated and she was able to speak again, but all she did was cry.
"Please. Don't let her die. You have to save her." The pegasus fell to the ground. "I'll do anything."
"Then say it. Proclaim your servitude."
"I-I am your slave. I will serve you."
"That's more like it." The dark alicorn grinned. Her horn charged and Applejack bolted into a sitting position, breathing heavily.
"Now, my little foal, since I have saved your life, I believe you owe me a life debt."
"I don't owe you anythin'. Your the one that almost killed."
"Not almost, did. And I would suggest you pay off your debt unless you want you apple orchards to die and you family business to fall into ruin."
Applejacks ears flattened against her head. "You wouldn't." Her voice broke for a second, making her sound like an older version of Sweetie Belle.
"You shouldn't under estimate me dear. I have already killed one mare tonight, even if I did bring her back to life. Don't think I wouldn't deprive a few trees of their sunlight."
Applejacks head swam with visions of her farm in ruins and her family living on the street. A tear appeared in the corner of her eyes. She didn't say it in words but Applejack simply nodded. Nightmare Moon smiled evilly.
"Glad to have found a reasonable mare among you. Now what to do with this one." She turned her attention to Rarity, who was still unconscious on the stone floor." You two, wake her up." She watched as the work horse and the timid pegasus slowly approached the sleeping unicorn. Fluttershy gently pushed on Rarity's barrel, trying to rouse her from her sleep, while Applejack tapped her whither. "I said waker her up. Not coax her from her sleep. Slap her if you have to."
"But-" Fluttershy began but was promptly shut down.
"I said slap her, slave!" Fluttershy winced, but did not want to break her promise. With tears in her eyes, she slapped Rarity's face, who to say the least, woke up startled.
"What are you doing Fluttershy! There was no need to wake me up in such a manner." Rarity looked around the room. "Um, where are we... Oh right the castl-Nightmare Moon!" Rarity was on her hooves instantly. Slowly backing away from the evil mare.
"Do not be afraid. I am not her to harm you."
"Why should I believe you after what you did... to. Applejack? But you-you. What's going on here?"
"I saved her life." Nightmare Moon smiled, trying to appear as friendly as possible. "And I hope to offer you an opportunity. Something that you have always wanted."
"I' sorry but unless you have Sapphire Shores with you, there is nothing you have that I want."
"Oh, is that so? So I'm guessing you don't want a suite in the Canterlot castle, or maybe it's the boutique in the centre of the city that you don't want. Hm, too bad."
Rarity felt her insides turn. Her dream come true. "What could I possible have that would convince you to give me all that."
"Well, a princess does need to dress well, does she not. I'm going to need my own designer. Think about it, you get to live your dream as a Canterlot designer and all you have to do is do what you do every other, make dresses."
Rarity giggled, completely forgetting why they were there in the first place. "Oh my gosh, I-I-I don't even know what to say."
"Good, I'll see you soon." With a flash, Rarity disappeared.
Applejack's eyes widened. "Where did you send her?" Her voice was raised.
"I would be careful of your tone. Not that it is any of your business, but I have sent her to Canterlot. Now you two best make your way back to tht small town you call a home. Wait for me there. There is business I have to attend to.
Outside the castle, a crowd of ponies were busy thinking of what to do next. Not long ago, just as the second group were about to enter the castle, a barrier had appear, blocking the entrance and stopping them from entering. A group of pegasi had attempted to fly through one of the many gaps in the castle but it appeared that every opening had been blocked with magical barriers.
They were now all waiting for something to happen, thinking of ways to continue with their quest when she appear. Much like when she first revealed herself, Nightmare Moon appear, a spiral of magical aura splitting apart to reveal the dark alicorn. "People of Ponyville! Your princess is here!"
Sunset sat in her room, watching the sun rise for the first time in months. It was a lot brighter than she remembered and seemed to change colour as she watched. With her were her associate that she once called friends, but they no longer saw her that way. To them she was their master and them her slaves.
"It's so beautiful." Applejack walked to the window to get a better view. "If only it was Celestia who raised it."
"Don't say that. You don't want her to hear you." Fluttershy hissed.
"Oh, I do not mind her musings. She may choose to think what she wishes. It is her actions that concern me most." Applejack's blood froze in her veins. At the doorway stood the lunar princess, clad in her silver armour.
"Princess! I'm sorry, I didn't mean any disrespect."
"Fear not child." The alicorn patted Applejack's head. "I do not seek to instil fear in you, just to ensure that their is order in my kingdom." Rarity approached the princess, while Fluttershy attempted to blend into the shadows.
"If I may be so bold princess, I think it is time to start work on a new line. Your current attire is a tad mundane. May I take my leave?"
The princess smiled before gesturing to the door. "I shall not stop you from doing your job." Rarity galloped off without a second thought, leaving the other five ponies behind. "So Sunset. As promised, the sun has returned. Enjoy it while it is here. I am still partial to the night."
Applejack bowed to the dark mare. "Thank princess for returnin' the sun."
"You are most welcome. Just remember the deal we have. I raise the sun, and you grow the food for my people."
"Of course." Applejack bowed her head, whilst slowly making her way out of the room, leaving only four ponies left, excluding the princess.
"And you, don't think shadows hide you from my sight. I was practically raised in them." Fluttershy didn't mumbled in fear. "Speak so that I may hear you properly."
It was barely audible, but her words could be understood. "Yes, princess. What is it you needed?"
"Fetch us some refreshments. I am ravenous." Fluttershy didn't need to be told twice. With the speed of a Wonderbolt, she flew off.
From the corner of the room, came another pony, her mane limp against her head, devoid of any and all curls. "And me princess. Have you no task for which I am to complete." Of all the ponies, Pinkie had been affected the most. Sunset no longer saw any happiness in those eyes. Only sadness. The princess turned her attention to Pinkie and shivered. Even she was unnerved by the dramatic change of Pinkie.
"No, I have nothing for you to do. But I do wish you to leave so that we may speak." Pinkie left the room, not even making a sound as she left. "Now shall we talk?"
"What about Rainbow?" Sunset gestured to the door, where a Pegasus is steel armour stood to attention. Nightmare Moon didn't turn around.
"Captain, do you have any duties to attend to?"
"Yes ma'am." The rainbow maned Pegasus responded. She turned and left the room.
"Aren't you afraid that she'll attack you one day?" Sunset queried.
"Not so long as her friends serve me. That's the benefit of loyalty. It can be manipulated. Now what is it you wished to speak about my dear protégé?"
"Nothing really, I was just curious about something."
"And that is?"
"Why now?"
"I do not follow." The alicorn tilted her head in confusion.
" Why did you wait until now to return the sun."
The alicorn pause to think. "Emphasis." Sunset didn't respond to this. She didn't know how to. "Let me elaborate. The long night show everypony who is in control. By giving them a taste of light, the night will be so much more dark. They will seek out the sun more and will therefore need me more." Sunset didn't see the logic in this but just agreed. The princess turned to leave.
"Princess?" She stopped.
"Yes."
"What happened to her?"
"Celestia?" Sunset's ears flattened.
"Yes. Celestia. I was just wondering what ever happened to her." The princess chuckled.
"You have already seen her today." Sunset's brow furrowed in confusion. "As I was sealed in the moon, she has been imprisoned in her celestial body. Please excuse the pun." The princess left without further comment. Sunset turned to look out the window, and finally she saw it. The sun's surface slowly changed colour. Different parts going from yellow to red. But when she focused, she saw a shape.
Even got a screenshot of it.