First published
Once upon a time, there was a filly who got stuck in a time loop.
This is not that story.
This is the story of what would happen if the loops did not truly loop.
Recommended you read A Little Loopy first.
As Sweetie Belle began to drift into consciousness, her emerald eyes opened, and a curious sight was the first to greet her. Sitting up, she rubbed a white hoof over her eye, glancing to the window. There sat Opalescent, staring out it with a strangely intelligent expression. There was no anger, nor annoyance, which were what Sweetie normally saw.
Curiosity drove her to rise, and slowly approach the cat, looking outside and seeing nothing of interest. Ponies were already up and about, preparing for a fun-filled weekend with their friends. Or, at least, that’s what Sweetie knew she would be doing. A knock at her door startled her, and she jolted.
“Sweetie Belle? Are you awake? Your friends are downstairs waiting for you.” It was her sister, violet-draped Rarity, and Sweetie struggled to answer, distracted by her beating heart.
“C-Coming!” Voice cracking, she winced to herself. Dancing up and down, her eyes were drawn to Opal, who was staring at her intently. The look sent her mind into a flurry, and she spun around, and then dived for her mirror. Brushing her mane, she quickly put her bow on and headed for the door. Mind quickly brushing aside all doubts her week was repeating as she looked forward to her first Saturday.
A shudder passed through Discord, and he opened his eyes, floating in his realm. Something had changed in the spell affecting Ponyville. Before he could focus on the spell in better detail, it vanished, almost as if it had never existed. Frowning, he stroked his beard, and glanced toward the Wart-er-falls.
“What was I THINKING. Wart-er-falls? That was pitiful, even for me. No, no, what we need is...” Thinking for a moment, Discord waves a hand around in the air, looking up toward the ground.
“Oh! I got it. Football Falls!” He snaps his fingers, and nods as the small rain of warts transformed into footballs. After a moment, they began to hit into each other, and get sent flying into the depths of the realm. Discord nodded, everything was perfectly unperfected.
“What was I thinking about again?” Giving a shrug, he decided it probably wasn’t important.
“Did the spell not work? No, no; it’s still there, but fading fast.” Frowning, Star Swirl jumped off the ledge, and walked out of the room. The spell was still active, but he was no longer a part of it. Pausing in the hallway, he considered the options. Coming to a conclusion, he stalked downstairs, grabbing a bite to eat.
“I considered it an unlikely possibility, but there can be no doubt. The spell I cast is creating new alternative futures with each iteration.” Finished eating, he walked outside, curling up into a ball under the sun, closing his eyes.
“I lost the roll, stuck to live my life as animals for the rest of eternity. At least I can take solace in the fact one iteration of me lives, having succeeded in our goal.” Satisfied with himself, Star Swirl began to clean himself using his cat tongue. He pauses when a voice rings out.
“Opal! It’s time for your bath. Opal?” The rapidly approaching torture machine was enough to send Star Swirl under the Boutique.
“...Perhaps death would be preferable.”
“So let me get this straight. You have NO memory of what we did last weekend?” Apple Bloom raises an eyebrow, red tail swishing slightly in the breeze. Beside her, Scootaloo was also sharing her disbelief in the form of distraction. Her eyes followed a speeding form in the sky, orange wings flapping eagerly.
“Yeah, and this past week I kept having headaches. They’re gone now, thankfully. Twilight said she couldn’t figure out why I was getting them, either.” Tapping a hoof to her chin, Sweetie went over the week in her head. School, she went home early, Rarity went to Manehattan. Tests to find out why she was having headaches, getting grounded...
“Well, it was honestly a little strange, we hung out all day on Saturday, but when Sunday rolled around, you were nowhere to be found. Rarity seemed a little worried...” A soft sigh came from Apple Bloom. It seemed to have all worked out fine in the end, but it seems she would never know why Sweetie had been missing all Sunday.
“Oh dear, I hope she wasn’t mad...” Ears falling downward, Sweetie felt a slice of guilt at whatever had caused Rarity strife. A shake of Apple Bloom’s head confirmed there was nothing to worry about.
“I’m sure if ya had of caused some sort of strife, she woulda grounded ya. You know, before we got grounded.” Nodding to herself, Apple Bloom considered it sound logic.
“Yeah, you’re right. Come on, let’s go get out Cutie Marks.” All thee rose, and began to trot toward their destination.
“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS, NATURE PRESERVERS!”
Lowering the moon, Luna smiled softly to herself. It had been a lovely night with lovely fillies and colts, who had been excited to see her night, to see her. The questions, the attention, it was more than she could have ever dreamed. As the sun rose, she nodded to herself. Perhaps trying to convince adults to enjoy her night had never been the right way to do things. No, she had a new idea.
Walking purposely into breakfast, Luna ignored her seat, and stopped beside Celestia. Pausing in her peeling of a banana, she looked up, swallowing the bite she had taken of it already.
“My sister, I wish for your permission to travel around Equestria, educating young in the stars I paint for them.” Her hope rested on her sister’s answer. A dark part of her mind flashed back to a thousand years ago, but she shook it off. Times had changed, ponies had changed. Celestia had changed. Hopefully for the better.
“Are you certain, dear sister? It would mean taking on additional duties beside what you have already.” Putting her breakfast down, Celestia rose, facing her sister. There was only concern in her eyes, fear that the pressure of too much would break her sister once more. A part of her knew Luna would go through with it, but a part of her wanted to keep her sister safe.
“I am certain sister. Times may have changed, but change happens with the next generation. If I am to be known once more as Luna, and not Nightmare Moon, it needs be done through a generation with open minds, and pure hearts. I fear adults may be less accepting of my words, of my story.” Luna put a hoof to her chest, and waited on baited breath for her sister’s answer.
A soft smile graced Celestia’s lips, “Then you do it, sister. You never needed my permission, you know that.” Bringing Luna into a hug, she felt the tension her sister had been hiding. No, Luna had not changed, always worried about what others would think. And yet, Luna had learned from her mistakes, of this she had no doubt.
“I-I know sister, I just...wanted to hear it from you...” Both shared a quiet laugh, the morning sun peeking through the stained glass windows, shining rainbow colors upon them.
‘Finally the weekend.’ Her relief was leaking down her face. Sweetie wouldn’t need those books, she would get the chance to get Scootaloo a new scooter. Finally, the weekend. The sun never looked so welcoming as it rose, and she was almost tempted to lower back down into her blankets, but the fear that doing so would restart the week remained.
Sweetie’s ear flickered. There was movement downstairs. Smiling, Sweetie decided to surprise her sister, and snuck down the stairs. Peeking into the kitchen, her sister was hard at work preparing breakfast. Sweetie stepped back a few steps, and then announced her presence with heavy clip-clops as she stepped into the room, and gave a yawn.
“Sweetie Belle, you’re up early. I was just making breakfast.” Rarity smiled warmly at her sister as Sweetie slipped into the kitchen table’s chair and beamed at her sister.
“What chu making?” Sweetie felt proud, and free. No more waiting for a weekend that might not come. A plate of toast landed in front of her as Rarity stifled a yawn.
“Sorry it’s not very extravagant, I was up late last night working on an order. If you’ll excuse me, I’m gonna go get some more sleep.” Eyes already closed, Rarity begins to walk away.
“So it is the weekend, but why was I repeating the same week over and over again?” Rubbing her chin, Sweetie sighed to herself, and took a bite of her toast.
“I mean, it’s possible I just dreamed it,” she commented, frowning. A bird singing outside snapped her out of her muse, and she blinked.
“Right! The scooter! I gotta earn some money!” Cantering out of the house, she made a beeline for the one pony she knew who made money. Sure enough, there Applejack was, at her stall selling apples.
“Applejack! Applejack! I need your help!” Bouncing in place, Sweetie didn’t realise she had interrupted a sale, even as Applejack sent the mare on her way.
“What’s up sugarcube, something wrong?” Taking a look over her, Applejack saw no signs of tree sap, which led her to believe this wasn’t related to Cutie Marks, as unlikely as that sounded.
“I broke Scootaloo’s scooter, and I want to buy her a new one. But...I don’t know how to make money.” Rocking back and forth on her feet, Sweetie waited expectantly for Applejack’s response.
“That’s really responsible of you. I reckon I can help you out. How does 5 bits for helping me till lunch sound?” Holding out an apple to a customer, Applejack smiled, waving them off.
“Sure! Maybe I’ll get my Cutie Mark from it!” Beaming happily, she levitated the apron that Applejack offered, tying it around her.
“Ye’re getting’ pretty good with that magic there Sweetie Belle. Now, all you have to do is stand behind this stall here. Let me get ya a stool.” Glancing around, Applejack opted to grab a wooden crate for Sweetie to stand on.
“Here comes a customer. The apples are 1 bit each.” Giving a reassuring smile, Applejack stepped back to watch.
“Hey, could I get 4 apples to go?” The mare gave a patient smile, and Sweetie levitated out four apples, placing them on the counter. Ear twitching, she turned as Applejack held out a brown paper bag for them to go in. Once inside, Applejack showed Sweetie how to fold the bag, and then placed it on the counter. The mare reached for them, placing down 3 bits.
“Er miss? They’re 1 bit each.” Looking away, Sweetie shrunk slightly as the mare stared at her, and then checked the sign.
“Oh, you’re right. My mistake.” Reaching in, she pulls out one more bit, and then trots away. Applejack ruffles Sweetie’s hair, chuckling.
“That’s how it’s done sweet pea. Let’s get to work.”
Entering Sugarcube corner, Applejack approached the counter, a cheerful form following behind her, 6 bits firmly held in her magic
“Hiya Applejack! Sweetie, here to get some cupcakes?” Leaning against the bar, the bright pink form of Pinkie Pie greeted the two.
“Actually Pinkie Pie, Sweetie Belle here is trying to earn 20 bits to buy Scootaloo a new scooter.” Gently pushing the filly forward, Applejack smiled.
“Oooh! That sounds exciting? Are you excited? I know I’m excited! Oh! I know! How about you work for me today. 5 bits, and one cupcake for a hard days work.” Bouncing up and down slightly on two hooves, Pinkie Pie didn’t mention the bits would be coming out of her salary. How could she NOT help out such an important quest?
“Sure!” Sweetie could barely contain her excitement. If she worked just as hard tomorrow, she would have the bits she needed.
“Let’s get to work then~”
Monday rolled around, Scootaloo walking to school as normal. It was depressing, not only had she not seen Sweetie Belle all weekend, her scooter would never fly again. Raising her head, she sighed, half-expecting only Apple Bloom to be waiting at the gate for her.
And there it was. Bright red, wheels designed to go on road, and off road, handlebars made for gripping as a pony, a rear slot to attach a wagon to. Right beside it stood her two friends, expectant faces. Tears brimming to her eyes, Scootaloo dashed forward, bringing them both into an overjoyed hug. She had a scooter again!
“I love you guys!” Her wings flap excitedly, and they all share a laugh. Stepping on it, Scootaloo rode it around briefly, and then pulled back to a stop.
“Ah had nothing to do with this, actually. This was all Sweetie Belle’s work.” Apple Bloom motioned to the filly, who kicked at the dirt sheepishly.
“I’m sorry for causing your scooter to get broken cause of my bad idea...” Before Sweetie could look up, she was brought into a strong hug by two orange arms.
“I love it! But that wasn’t your fault, you didn’t know.” Scootaloo nuzzled Sweetie, and looked to Apple Bloom.
“Yeah Sweetie Belle, that was a bit of a group fail in my opinion.” All thee turned as the bell rang for school, and the moment was cut short. Not wanting to be late, the three hurried inside, Scooter being placed in the bike rack.
11:59...teddybear
12:00...teddybear
1:00...teddybear
2:00...teddybear
4:00...teddybear
7:00...teddybear,
....zzzz
“Oh? What’s this doing out here?” Sweetie jolted out of her sleep, startled as she looks to the teddybear. Sure enough, Rarity was holding it up in her magic, head turning to look into her room quizzically.
“What are you doing up at this hour on a Saturday, and why is your toy in the hallway?” Tilting her head, Rarity slowly stepped inside as Opalescent skulked past.
“Uh well...” Going cross eyed, Sweetie tried to think of how to explain it. Because she was so busy trying to explain it, it was a long time before an important detail finally slipped into her mind. Eyes widening, her voice broke into a higher octave.
“Wait, SATURDAY?!” As Rarity nodded, Sweetie pivoted, looking out the window. Sure enough, there were signs of ponies she didn’t recognise walking past, and shops weren’t open so ponies could take their weekends off. Mouth falling open, she stood there as a feeling built inside her, before finally bursting.
“IT’S SATURDAY!” Jumping around the room, she brought Rarity into a tear filled hug, laughing. She was free! She didn’t know how, and she didn’t know why, but she was free! Now she’d be able to do that homework! She could get her friends their Cutie Marks! She could-
“Sweetie... Fine I won’t ask, but if you’re going to be up this early, you’re making your own toast. I’m going back to bed. I was up all night working on an order.” Giving a yawn, Rarity put the teddybear back in the hallway, and turned right, heading for her room.
Excited, Sweetie danced around the room. What should she do first? Cutie Marks? Cutie Marks. Yes, and then...oh her homework! And then she should try getting her Cutie Mark. Yes, this sounded like the perfect plan. What could go wrong?
“My name is Sweetie Belle. I have a big sister called Rarity, she’s an Element of Harmony, Generosity. How neat is that? Oh, right right. My parents are Hondo Flanks, and Cookie Crumbles. But I don’t see them that often...” Ears flopping down, Sweetie thought about that. Why was it that they rarely came home?
Shaking her head, she discarded such thoughts, “I don’t know who our ancestors are or anything like Apple Bloom, but I have my sister, and my parents. I love them very much. I would not be who I am today without them. Which is why, I composed a song for everyone today.” Putting a hoof to her chest, Sweetie smiled at her friends, and began to sing.
The song was soft, and quiet, and yet easily heard. As her voice swept around the room, her horn sparked, and lit up. Voices soon joined in her chorus, the very room beginning to sing. Even Diamond Tiara was unable to resist joining in the crescendo of ponies. Each one a celebration of their histories, of their pasts, of their family.
Opening her eyes, Sweetie’s song faded from their ears, but still stirred within their hearts. A bright flash turned her head, and she saw the mark on her flank. Staring at it, it all made sense to her now. This was who she was. She wasn’t a singer, no that wasn’t what the mark meant, though it was through song she had discovered it.
“You got your Cutie Mark!” Looking to Apple Bloom and Scootaloo, Sweetie smiled joyfully, and walked over, the three embracing in a hug.
“I did,” she spoke, in tears.
‘And you will too.’ The very thought brought her to an all-time high, so overcome with emotion she found herself unable to speak. They would all get their Marks on the same day, sealing their friendship.
“Today is your day Sweetie. Whatever you want to do after class, we’ll do it!” Scootaloo’s wings buzzed excitedly.
It truly was.
Starswirl stared at the bed she slept on, before leaping onto it and sitting down. Tail swishing, his paw touched the air, it seeming to shimmer briefly.
“There you are,” he spoke, pawing through the shimmering. With a small burst of his meager magic, the room darkened, flashing briefly to a greyed out room, Sweetie on the bed, staring at the teddybear. Fading, he turned his head, to where the teddybear still sat in the hallway.
“She is experimenting.” Swishing his tail, he leapt off the bed, and left the room.
“Sweetie belle, wake up it’s time for school...”Mumbling in her sleep, Sweetie turned over in her bed, rolling out of it. Falling to the floor with flailing limbs, she blinked her eyes open, and then rubbed them groaning.
“I’m coming, I’m coming...” Almost in a half-daze, she went through the daily routine, making herself some breakfast, not realising that Rarity wasn’t making pancakes. It was only, after washing her plate clean, that her mind finally clicked, and she blinked, tilting her head, confused.
“Oh no...Has the looping time gotten shorter?” Putting a hoof to her chest as a throb of fear laces through it, Sweetie dashed around the house in circles, indecision causing her to panic. Finally, she dashed into Rarity’s room, seeing her sister asleep, and quickly woke her up.
“Rarity! What day is it!?” Her voice was high pitched, trying to keep the blind panic from her voice.
“The weekend, now let me sleep,” grumbled Rarity, puffing her sister away as she turned her back to Sweetie. A relieved breath passed Sweetie’s lips. Whew, the loop hadn’t gotten shorter. Wait....
“WEEKEND!?”
“Ooooh what a glorious moooorning~” Sweetie sung cheerfully as she bounced down the street, unable to hide her blatant joy over it being the weekend. Somehow she had gotten out, she was free! There were no tears coming from her eyes, nope. She’d just been...chopping onions! Yeah!
Her bouncing came to a stop mid-air, eyes opening to notice Apple Bloom and Scootaloo walking down the street, heads hung low. For the second time that day, Sweetie felt her heart clutched in a vice, and she landed roughly, rolling and scraping her knee. Wincing, she sat up, and looked to it, it was bleeding too, she couldn’t avoid chopping more onions because of it.
“Hey...Sweetie...are you ok?” The two approached hesitatingly, as if the very act of them speaking would cause them to suddenly poof into ash. Turning, Sweetie looked to them, guilty, and then looked away.
“Uh...y-Yeah I’m fine...Thanks for asking...” Wiping away her onion tracks, she widens her eyes as Apple Bloom reached into her saddlebags, and pulls out a band-aid. It takes some fiddling, but she manages to place it over the scrape. Glancing to them, Sweetie’s eyes widened, suppressed. They were being nice, after what she said?
“There you go...” The two share a glance, and then begin to leave. Sweetie raises a hoof, standing up and trying to stop them.
“Wait!” They stop, and Sweetie lowers her hoof, looking away, ears flopping down.
“I...I know it’s not anything to make up for it but...I’m sorry for what I said...” A part of her mind knew there was no way mentioning she’d thought they’d not remember it was not a wise idea. Them believing her about time loops? Unlikely. Heck; impossible. They look to her sadly, and a single word leaves their lips.
“Why?”
Looking down, Sweetie answers in a whisper. “At first, it was to get dirt on Diamond...but I found out she’s a good pony underneath in the process...I know I should have told you, but I acted without thinking, and...I’m sorry.” She closes her eyes, head hung, knowing words would not earn her friends forgiveness. Despite the odds, she feels herself embraced in a strong hug.
“We forgive you.” “What are friends for?” They both smile sadly, obviously far from taking this incident, and forgetting it. But such wounds would heal with time. Heart melting, Sweetie closed her eyes, once more peeling some onions as she holds them tight. This had almost cost her her friends, and yet, there was one thing she had to do.
“Come on. It’s time to end this silly feud with Diamond Tiara.” Leaning back, she smiles at their doubtful gazes.
“You’ll just have to trust me here.”
The doorbell rang, and as Diamond answered it, expecting Silver Spoon, her eyes widened in shock, seeing the CMC. Narrowing her eyes suspiciously, she fully expected Sweetie to pull out the diary, and betray her. Already, she began to steel her heart. And yet, she was wrong.
“Diamond, it’s time to tell Apple Bloom what you really want to say to her.” Stepping inside, Sweetie put a hoof on Diamond’s shoulder encouragingly, and stepped to her side, looking to her friends.
“If you can make me care about you, you can do it with them. This is your chance, just take it.”
Looking to the two crusaders, Diamond couldn’t help but sneer. Chance with them? Why should she? They’d never cared about her before! Her mouth opened, already preparing a sharp retort, ready to discard the two, and demand Sweetie pick a side. However, her mind went back to the sleepover, and she paused.
That night had been...fun. It’d been so long, she’d almost forgotten what it felt like. Was it really something she could just earn with a few words, as Sweetie stated? Her gaze went to the filly, seeing the encouraging, accepting smile. What if this was just a trick, so they could bully her once more? Her eyes narrowed once more. There was no way this was anything but a trick.
Breathing out a sigh, Diamond closed her eyes, ears flopping downward.
And yet...
“Apple Bloom. I’m sorry for teasing you. It wasn’t right, I know that. I still did it anyway. I wanted to make myself feel better, at any cost. Besides, after the Cute-ceañera, it was all I had left to keep me from leaving this school forever, you really made everyone hate me. It hurt, knowing my money was the only way they’d hang with me now.” Eyes opening, she looked to the two shocked faces, and sighed.
“Now go on, tease me for having feelings. I deserve it.” She braced herself, standing tall and ready. They would not see her cry. They would not see her shake. She was a Diamond. Unbreakable, unflawed, unremarkable...No! Focus! Blinking back to reality, Diamond watches as the two began to speak.
“While I don’t condone what you did, I do believe in second chances. And if Sweetie is willing to give you one, so am I.” Stepping forward, Apple Bloom offered a hoof.
“I...don’t know. I’m going to need time to think on this.” Scootaloo looked away, glancing to her wings. Diamond winced.
“That’s...more than I deserve,” she admitted. Hesitating for a moment, she reached out for Apple Bloom’s hoof, taking it, and giving it a small shake.
Smiling, Sweetie watched this, and let out a relieved breath.
Sometimes, time could heal all wounds.
Sweetie turned toward her friends, and watches as one second they were there, and the next they were gone. Frowning, Sweetie’s ears flopped down, and she sighed, disappointed. Pulling on her blankets, she closed her eyes. It had failed. Her friends hadn’t come with her. But why? It made no sense, it went against everything she’d thought she knew about the loops.
The next time she opened her eyes, it was already morning. Rising, she stretches, and trotted downstairs, making herself some toast while Rarity looked at her quizzically. Noticing the look, Sweetie blinked, eyes widening. This was new. Where were her pancakes?
“Did your four friends go home early?” Tilting her head, Rarity grew concerned at the look of alarm on Sweetie’s face. Standing up, she forgot about her breakfast for now.
“You mean you REMEMBER!?” Sweetie began to backpedal, and she dashed up to her room, slamming it open. It was then she noticed it. All her notes, all her paper planes, all were gone. Everything that had been in the room that normally looped, was gone. Her bed, her vanity unit, and some of her toys remained, but as she scanned her room, it felt...empty.
“Sweetie Belle? What’s going on? Where’s your friends?” Rarity was quickly growing concerned, noticing how clean Sweetie’s room was. Where were the signs of a sleepover? Sweetie gulped, turning to look to Rarity. Tears slowly sprung to her eyes, slowly drawing half-baked conclusions Sweetie didn’t understand.
“They’re g-gone.” Tears slowly stung Sweetie’s eyes as she had to draw the only conclusion one could make. Somehow her friends had been taken into the loop, but not her. Inadvertently, she had forced her friends into the loops, something she wouldn’t wish on anyone. Biting her lip, she felt Rarity place a hoof on her shoulder, demanding answers.
Should she give them? Give Rarity the answers? Would she even be believed? ‘I was stuck in a time look that affected my bedroom, and now my friends are all stuck in that time loop without me.’ That was hardly believable in the slightest. But she couldn’t lie, Applejack would know. If only she had proof!
“I-I was stuck in –this magic thing and I-and I was trying to get them in it too but then they got into it but I didn’t and now they’re gone and I don’t know how to get them back and I-“ crying, Sweetie began to sob uncontrollably. Rarity’s confusion only grew, and she bit her lip, looking to the room. No matter how it happened, four fillies had vanished on her watch.
Moral support would be needed for what was coming next. Rarity gently stood up, and breathed in.
“Don’t worry Sweetie, I’ll protect you. But we’ve got to go get everyone.” Putting on a mask, Rarity stood tall, knowing she was about to become the focal point for a lot of hate. And if Sweetie was ever to recover, she would have to be strong. Nodding, Sweetie rubbed her eyes, and tried to copy the behavior. Despite the situation, Rarity felt a flicker of pride at her sister.
“Let’s go.”
It had taken time, and effort, to get everypony together without answering questions. The Rich and Spoon family especially. But now, with everyone standing in her boutique, Rarity knew it was time to explain. Twilight, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie didn’t understand why they were here too, but they trusted Rarity’s judgement. Breathing in, Rarity broke the news.
“Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom are gone.” There was a dumbstruck silence around the room, all taking time to absorb the words coming out of Rarity’s mouth. Breathing in, she continued before they could recover.
“An accident with magic happened late last night, and they got pulled into something, I don’t know what. And now we have no idea where they are. I am sorry.” Rarity got to her knees, bowing her head. It was important she chose her words carefully, lest they start blaming Sweetie for something that was out of her control.
Outrage sprang out, “Just hold on a minute, what!? Where’s my sister!” Applejack was the first to rise, beginning to shake Rarity. Looking to her, Rarity ignored the tears falling down her face, keeping a strong shield up around her own emotions. She had to be strong, for Sweetie’s sake.
“Gone, I’m so so sorry Applejack. I should have kept a better eye on them.” The room rocked with thunder as cries of distress and anger spoke out. Rarity remained where she was, staring into the horrified eyes of her best friend, watching as her head turned, eyes clenching shut as she tried to bundle up her emotions deep inside.
Once the anger had subsided, panic set in, and her house was searched thoroughly, before unanimous cries of pain and heartache rang out. Covering Sweetie’s ears, Rarity closed her eyes, listening to it. This was all she could do to protect her sister. This was her burden to bear. A sharp pain on her cheek, and she flew across the room, landing in a heap.
“Give us back our daughter!” It was Filthy Rich, tears streaming down his face with blind desperation in his eyes. Rarity looked to him sadly, and just shook her head.
“I can’t. I’m sorry.” The hoof came for her once again, before he was dragged off by the mother, and out of the house. Soon enough, parties began leaving, intent on searching for their lost ones. Only Twilight and Sweetie remained behind. Taking her friends hoof, Rarity tried to smile, but could only manage a grimace.
“What happened Rarity?” Her friend was just as distraught, and yet there was just a want to understand. Rising, Rarity shook her head, looking to the already grief-stricken Sweetie Belle.
“I’ll tell you later Twilight. Sweetie needs me.” With that said, Rarity walked over to her sister, and brought her into a hug.
“It’s going to be alright, you hear me Sweetie?” Stroking a hoof through her sister’s hair, Rarity let her tears finally fall, holding her sister, which she may have almost lost, for dear life.
Ba bump. Ba Bump.
Her heartbeat thudded in her ears as she listened, following a thin trail of magic as she threaded her way through the Everfree. How long had passed to reach this moment? Too long, she decided. Beneath her hooves, the leaves crunched. Above her head, the birds sung. Around her, creatures scurried.
Bu bump. Crunch. Bu Bump. Chirp. Bu Bump. Scurry.
Coming to a stop, her emerald eyes opened, looking toward the Castle of the Pony Sisters. Looking down, she spotted the small trail leading to the Element Tree, to where the thin green trail was leading her. Hoof-steps echoing, she looked around the cave, and stepped over to a snow-white cat, dozing beside the tree.
“There you are, Opal.” Reaching out, Sweetie’s hoof gently nuzzles the cat, who looked to her, annoyed.
“Do you HAVE to do that?” Opal spoke in a masculine voice, eyes narrowing, slurring some words as she forced her mouth to move in ways a cat’s mouth wasn’t designed for.
Sweetie shrugged, “Not really no. Would you prefer I call you what you are now, or what you once were? What I say is an insult to you either way.” Lifting Opal up in her magic, Sweetie pinned the cat against a wall, staring coldly into her eyes.
“Let’s just get this over with, the reason for your visit. Your ‘Cutie Mark Crusaders,’ yes?” Opal’s tail twitched in Sweetie’s magic, claws extending. Pinning Opal with more force, Sweetie narrowed her eyes.
“Where. ARE. THEY!?”
“Dead most likely, gone forever if not. Like us, they were not chosen to continue the loops. Simply put, we’re the rejects, the dead ends. Believe me, I’m just as annoyed as you are. Especially that a two-bit unicorn thinks she can hold me down.” With a swipe of her claws, Opal sheared clean through the magic, landing and licking her paw, cleaning her fur, tail fluffed.
“You’re lying!” Sweetie stomped her hooves, sending another blast of magic toward Opal. Once more, claws shimmering with a yellow magic sheared through her spell like it was butter. An impatient sigh was all Sweetie received in response at first.
“What reason do I have to lie? We’re the leftovers, tossed aside to be used as cement for the cracks in the spell.” Opal resumes cleaning herself.
“Cracks?” Sweetie blinks, and pauses.
“Mmmn, yes, even with the centuries I had to complete this spell, I could not erase all the...cracks, so to speak. It is why my presence in the spell Matrix is imperative, to ensure no...cracks make it into the loop. Alas, this means some of the redundancy could not be removed.” Opal sighs, clearly annoyed by this.
Looking around, Sweetie sat down, bewildered. “I-I don’t understand, how is this a ‘crack’? I’m out of the loop, you’re out of the loop. The spell should be over.” A dark pit in her stomach didn’t want to see the truth, so see the reality.
“True enough, ‘we’ are, but not ‘they’. Your friends, and the true version of you, and me for that matter, are still very much in those loops. We are...the leftovers. Our existence neither provable, nor conceivable to them.
“Your ‘quest’ to find your ‘Crusaders’ was doomed from the beginning. As is your life. Upon the loops eventual end two weeks from now, our world will cease to have meaning. The spell will reach a singularity, and we will be no more, the divergence ended to preserve the prime timeline.” Opal stretches, and then curls back up into a ball.
“But...no.” Sweetie just shakes her head. This couldn’t be what her research had meant. The years she’d spent searching for her friends...for naught?
“Why?” Her head tilted forward, and she slumped, beginning to cry.
“Do not think too deeply on it,” came Opal’s soft response, looking sympathetic for a moment.
“We knew this was a possibility, but we decided the benefits outweighed any bad that would come from this. You need to understand, the chance of this happening was a meagre 5%. We needed some way to power the spell. I suggest you take the time you have left, and spend it with those you care for.”
“...Yeah.” Sweetie rises, and leaves.
“I love you Rarity.” Hugging her sister, the two ignored the tears streaming from each other’s faces.
“I love you too, Sweetie Belle.”
“You know what?” Rarity wiped her face, smearing her makeup. Sweetie raised her head, and looked at her sister as she continued.
“Let’s go on a trip, just you and me, to Canterlot on Saturday. We’ll go shopping for fabric, go see the latest film, maybe even get you a meeting with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna if we’re lucky. What do you say?” Rarity brought her sister into a bearhug, and Sweetie felt another sad smile dawn upon her face.
“I’d like that. I’d like that very much.”
“Hrmf...” muttered the cat, tail swishing, watching from the opposite roof. This was not ideal. Not ideal at all. Regardless of certain triangles and magic runes; controlling the three fillies would take a great deal of magic from him each loop. Perhaps in the future he would only manipulate them to feel a draining sensation, unless otherwise needed.
“The goal to keep them away from her might be a fallacy. Unbeknownst to me it may be that the future will see certain events play out wherein they do override my anti-friendship matrix.” Oh, such a genius he was, if only he still had his beard to stroke. Or a mouse to eat. He rose, stretching with a yawn.
“That mouse should be catch-able soon, it is close to midnight.” Moving into the house through the cat-flap, he moved toward his position, ready to catch the mouse. It was almost poetic, he mused. The mouse in his maze, trying to find the cheese. Only, the cheese could only be received at the end of the maze.
A shiver passed over his fur, and he paused, seeing no mouse appear. That was highly paradoxical. Slowly, he peeked his head into Rarity’s room, noting the changed sleeping position. There was no denying it, the loop had ended. The 5% probably had turned out to be true.
“Disappointing...” He turned, tail flicking as he ended all spells he’d been currently maintaining. They were pointless now, all now maintained by his duplicate, the lucky one who remained in the loop. Yes, the magic still throbbed through the air. Meandering outside, a soft purr passed his lips in annoyance.
“Sweetie, it’s time to wake up.” A hoof gently rocked the small frame, who gave a yawn, stirring, confused.
“Nnnn? I know...pancakes. Later...” She turns over, curling up. Giving a soft chuckle, Rarity bit her sister’s ear, gently tugging it. Sweetie’s whines grew louder and louder, until finally she sat up to swipe her away.
“What is it Rarity? I was trying to sleep...” She grumbled, rubbing her eyes.
“We’re going to Canterlot, remember?” That wasn’t...right. Blinking at Rarity’s words, her eyes widened in shock.
“I-What day is it?”
Apple Bloom stirred, waking. The past week was a strange fog, but a serious weight forced her to rise. Vague memories of her friend, of all her friends. Sweetie Belle.
“SWEETIE BELLE!” Voice raising to a shout, Apple Bloom slammed the door open, rushing straight out of the house. In front of her on a scooter, Scootaloo had seemingly gotten the same idea. Both shared a guilt ridden look. Why had they said those words? What was wrong with them?
“Sweetie Belle!” They arrived just in time, the two sisters freezing in front of the house. Sweetie’s expression was one of deep hurt, and pain. Both came to a stop, stumbling over each others words.
“Sweetie I-we are so sorry-not sure what-weird feeling-felt like a different-was like something was controlling-everything is blurry-“ Both fell silent, sharing a glance, and then looking down. What sort of friends were they? Bitter tears glinted in their eyes.
“Apple Bloom. Scootaloo...”
Running toward them, she brought them both into a strong hug, her heart souring, glowing as her magic surrounded them with warmth, triggered by the strong feelings coursing through her. Her friends were trying to apologize! She was out of the loop! They were -alive.-
“I love you guys!” She laughed and laughed and laughed, unable to believe this was reality. Everything was too good, almost like a dream. It -had- to be a dream. All three laughed, all three cried. The heavens themselves parted, the sun shining down on them.
“We’re sorry!” They finally said, not wanting to let go of their friend. They’d been forgiven, things could be repaired. There was a chance to go crusading once more!
“I’m sorry too, for everything,” she spoke softly, giving a sad smile. “You don’t remember it, but...I should have been more careful.” She laughed humorlessly.
“I should have been more careful. But...but...” She sniffed, blinking as a hoof gently wiped away her tears. One yellow, one orange.
“We shouldn’t have said such things. I don’t even understand -how- my mouth even spoke such words. The very thought of it makes me feel sick to my stomach. WE are the ones who should be sorry,” reasoned Apple Bloom. Scootaloo nodded.
“No, it’s me who should be sorry. I should have trusted you. I should have known that you would never say those things.” She sniffed, not noticing her sister smile, nor her head inside to bake some cookies. Looks like the trip could wait.
“No it’s our fault! We should be sorry,” rebuffed Scootaloo.
“It’s my fault, you wouldn’t have said that if it wasn’t for me.” Sweetie argued right back.
“Ya’ll need to stop, we’re all sorry.” Apple Bloom lifted a hoof, and they all paused, giving a heartfelt laugh.
"Together?" Asked Sweetie.
"Together," nodded the two.
“Cutie Mark Crusaders, Apologetic Fillies!” They lifted their hooves into the air, connecting.
Starswirl chuckled softly. “Kids.” He ended his spell on the clouds, letting them return to their natural configuration. He nibbled on his mouse contentedly. While not the end he had foreseen for himself, he was satisfied in the knowledge the spell continued, ticking in the background as the weeks rolled by.
“And then, immortality will be mine.” He smiled at the thought, beginning to purr. Yes, then immortality would be the world’s. After all, it wasn’t like that magic could just vanish. It would have to go -somewhere-.
It had been three long years since those weeks had looped. Years of time to forgive and forget the hurt her friends had brought. The weeks like a crazy dream she had woken up from. Given time all wounds heal. All wounds forgotten. Now working with her sister: assisting with deliveries and earning bits in a part time job.
Their friendship was distant these days, but she still enjoyed what time she saw of them. And the red haired bright smile of the pony in the door was no exception this day. Stepping in the two shared a warm embrace, and then stepped back.
“Apple Bloom! How’s farm work treating you?” Smirking: Sweetie tiled her head in bemusement as her friend groaned loudly. Ears folding back: she grumbled under her breath for a moment.
“Terrible, horrible. Can you believe its Zap Apple season again already?” She fell to her knees with silent prayers to Sweetie.
“Pleeease. Can you come help me? Scootaloo will be there and-“With a hoof cutting off Apple’s words: Sweetie brought her friend back into a hug.
“Of course.”
“You know. Did we ever talk about that one weird week where Sweetie skipped school?” A swift kick to a tree sent apples flying into the net of magic below them. Careful of the shock that could come from them.
“…Well not really.” An orange filly carried away a basket as she glanced over. Gaze curious as she slowed, and stopped. The three shared a glance.
“Ah hahaha,” laughed Sweetie in embarrassment as she put the apples in the basket. “Not my finest moment, but I was still a kid you know?” The others smiled. Well: Scootaloo smirked.
“What do you mean -was-. You’re still a kid from where I’m standing.” Waltzing over as she messed up her friends mane. Smiles on their faces: happy and free.
So much had happened.
What was a couple of weird weeks years ago compared to everything since?
“…right…it was just a dream…” The door clicking closed as Sweetie returned to her home. Stepping up the quiet path to the kitchen as her hooves met the tiles. The sound reverberating around her. Gaze going left, and then right. Fridge opening, and then closing. Water preciously gulped down. Finally: the window. Eyes gazing to it.
“…..” Fresh memories resurfacing as she thought over those days. Vague yet clear. Time that had happened. And yet every pony she talked to denied it was even possible. Only the legendary Starswirl had even touched time magic.
Closing her eyes, and shaking her head: she turned and scaled the stairs to her room. A swift fall onto the bed and a moment of rest soon greeted her. Yellow eyes watching her in the darkness. Before they too closed. Notes still hidden in a box under the bed. Worn with age: but still sporting words in her handwriting.
Rolling to her side: magic swiftly pulled it out as she opened it and went through it in desperation. Searching for something. Anything. Concrete proof had to be in here. Why had she ordered those books? Why had she made notes?
“I know, I know;” her soft whispers echoed as she pulled out a note that had been placed on her bed as she’d prepared for the final stroke of midnight. Slowly: calm returned to her form. Seeing it in plain writing. A sigh escaping her.
“It was real. It was real.” Satisfied: she packed the box away, and moved to get some rest. The next morning at the crack of dawn: she awoke to smoke. Chaos. A fire.
Everything burned down. Everything gone.
“….But…” Sweetie softly whimpered.
A voice: “Real no longer.” Wild glances around revealed no source. Lifting up her sister’s cat: soft tears began to gently fall from her face. No matter what. She wouldn’t forget. It had been real. Her proof was gone. But her memories still existed. One day: she would find answers!
“…Forget.” A voice again. From below. Looking down: she met the eyes of the cat. And
“Sweetie Belle?” A voice woke her up, and she looked to her sister. They both embraced. Quietly picking up the pieces of their lives slowly but surely. Rarity’s cat had vanished. They feared the worst. Oddly: there was a nagging feeling in the back of Sweetie’s mind. As if she was forgetting something.
Yet her mind couldn’t think of anything. Was it sparked by seeing her friends? They’d talked about the week she’d played hooky and-
“A-ah.” Holding her head in pain: a massive headache hit her.
“Maybe you should get some rest…it’s been a long day.” Rarity spoke. They would be staying with Twilight for the immediate future. As Sweetie closed her eyes to rest, and the days passed by: the feeling abated and the headaches became but a faint memory. No longer haunted by nightmares of a time that never was.
Monday came, and with it the cream filly wandered into the school. Her eyes scanned the crowd. And there they were: Snips and Snails. Walking over: she breathed in as she offered them their notes back. They seemed shocked to see her.
“I thought you were time looping!” A soft frown, confusion. Sweetie looked away and breathed in as she looked back.
“I was…but for some reason it just…stopped. For the past 7 or 8 weeks I’m certain of it…” She looked to them: pleading with them. Begging.
“I know it sounds far-fetched…but please believe me.” Maybe….Maybe they’d believe her?
“Well,” mused one as they shared a glance. Snails would levitate the notes: and give a small smile.
“Well; you did bring the ‘proof’ did you not?” Snips spoke a moment later. They both gave boyish grins, and fresh tears filled her eyes. Relief overwhelming as she pulled them onto a warm hug. Only interrupted by the hoofalls of two certain ponies. Ears folding back: Sweetie moved to step back as the two boys moved to defend her.
All too swiftly: two became four.
“Well if it isn’t Sweetie Dull.” The diamond on the tiara of the pony glinted as she stepped forward, tilting her nose up in disgust at them. Apple and Scootaloo seemed to share a guilty glance. A mouth briefly, slowly, opening as Apple Bloom stepped up to speak. For a moment: a shiver of hesitation. But then Sweetie steeled her mind.
“At least my docile tones aren’t as fake as the tiara on your head.” Stepping shoulder to shoulder with the colts: her gaze trained on Diamond and narrowed. The four flinched back as Snips and Snails both blinked in shock.
“Now could you go play somewhere else? Unlike you I have things to be doing.” Her gaze turning away as she began to walk.
“Come along Snips. Snails. We have work to do.” A soft smile began to fall on her face. An excitement filling her mind. Thoughts of what she’d learned. Of what she knew. The reality of it all weighed on her. But she laughed.
“Who knows, we might save the world~” That was enough to sell the two on the idea. Bouncing along after her they began an onslaught of questions. A brief pang settled on her heart at the bridge she’d burned today. But she needed loyal ponies. Ponies who believed her even with no proof.
Yes. What she needed was the help of true friends.
“I think we’ve found him this time Sweets.” A quiet voice spoke out as Snails poked his head from his pile of books. In the kitchen: Snips was current making them food. The scent of fresh hay and cooked bread wafting through the room: distracting them with their stomachs. All too quickly the book was taken from Snails, and into the waiting magic of Sweetie Belle.
“I knew it. We’ve finally found that rat. This is it exactly.” Her smile grew. The proof she’d been seeking was finally in her hands. A simple scrap of paper that detailed a certain forbidden spell that could be cast only by Starswirl himself. Rising: she held it high in victory.
“Just you wait! When we show this to Twilight she’ll have no choice but to believe us! We have actual factual proof!” Running over: she hugged them both and began to dash around and pack a bag of clothing and coin.
“We need to get ready. We can’t let this clue slip past us like my notes that stupid fire burned down. Or the memory be stolen from me again. This….is…” a slow trailing off of her voice occurred as she saw their bemused glances: and the plate of sandwiches ready on a plate in Snip’s mouth.
“Well,” she smiled. “I suppose we can wait 30 minutes and get some food in first.” A jolt: and her hoof shot up.
“B-But no longer! We cannot let this madman get away!” They both grinned and gave a salute.
“Aye aye Cap’tn.”
“Ahm ahm ah-phm.”
“Sweetie Belle, this note is…” Twilight began: frowning. “Amazing!” Her wings shot open as she began to fly around her library: pulling out books.
“I-I have to cross reference this and-and.”
“TWILIGHT!” Cried out Sweetie Belle as she huffed in annoyance.
“Do you believe me NOW?!” She stomped a hoof, and waited. Pausing: Twilight landed and walked over. Eyes glancing to and fro: eventually she gave a sigh and smiled.
“I believe you.” Gently patting the filly: Twilight began to look into books and try and cross reference the spell.
“We’ll find him.”
“Persistent….little….” Growled a cat.
“You can’t hide your magic signature forever!” Twilight pointed at the cat. “You’re under arrest for cruel and unusual punishment to an innocent filly!”
Lifting a paw: Starswirl meowed out in boredom. “I surrender.”
“Fluttershy what did he say. Er-She.” Glancing to the only pony known to be able to speak to animals: Twilight smiled.
“He said he surrenders.”
“You brought this on yourself you know.” A soft voice spoke: rainbow mane gleaming gently in the sunlight. Celestia looked down upon the pitiful state of the cat in the cage. Large and covered in enchantments to block all magic. Starswirl was to live his life in the cell: and then quietly pass.
A soft purring came from the cat as Starswirl licked his paw, and cleaned his face.
“I’ve already won,” he mowed out, glaring at Celestia. Narrowing her eyes: Celestia turned and began to exit the jails. Though not without at least one final comment.
“I don’t speak cat, Starswirl.” As the door creaked closed: Starswirl began to laugh. His gaze going to a spider in the corner of the cage. A fly in its web. Breaking free the fly began to move around. It attempted to fly out of the cage: and was zapped. Dying instantly.
“Mmmmn,” he purred.
“It seems I’ll need to find an animal smaller…” Curling up: his purring grew in volume. The spider curled up at the far back of the nest: nursing a bundle of eggs. Not yet ready.
But soon.
“Goodbye dear sister.” Rarity stepped out the door, and looked back at Sweetie. Sniffing back her tears, Sweetie forced a smile onto her face as she waved goodbye, Opal hugged to her chest. Rarity turned, and headed to her room. The clock ticked forward, and Sweetie turned her attention toward the tree and milk. Placing the tree down, she poured a bit of milk into a cup, and placed it on the other side of her room.
11:59…
12:00…
12:01…
Wait…that wasn’t right. Sweetie moved to rise, and stepped over to the book Twilight had even her. She cast the spell. It told her it was Monday. Pausing: she then looked to the bottle of memories. Still there.
Slowly walking out of the room nervously: she peeked into her sister’s room to find Rarity had cried herself to sleep. Quietly and gently: she poked her awake. The sleepy eyes didn’t really register much at first.
“S-Sister? What day is it?” The sleep faded from her eyes as Sweetie spoke, and they slowly dilated. A sudden choking hug was next as Sweetie was thrust onto the bed, and into the arms of her crying sister.
“S-Sweetie Belle! It’s Saturday!” Exclaimed Rarity.
Ba bump.
Slowly: tears began to form in Sweetie Belle’s eyes as she began to get overwhelmed with emotion. A jumbled mess of words escaping her before she launched into an ugly and loud cry. It echoed around the room as her pain and anguish echoed out. A shivering and jostling body held by warm arms as the two cried.
Raw emotions billowing out like waves in a tsunami: wrecking all. Sparking magic controlled by nothing as the two cried long into the night, and passed out together. The morning came with exhaustion as the two didn’t bother getting from the bed. Even to answer the door. A cry from downstairs.
“Rarity! It’s Twilight.” A hoarse voice echoed out from Rarity as she wobbled to her feet, and moved downstairs. The two talked before ascending to see the dozing filly in the bed. Twilight nodded, and big her farewell. With that business done: Rarity returned to the bed and curled back up with Sweetie Belle.
And so the weekend passed.
Sweetie looked to the report on what Starswirl had been found guilty of, and looked to her toy of Opalescent. Rising from her seat: she walked over to her sister. Their gazes met and a sigh escaped Rarity. Slowly reaching into her saddlebag as she procured two tickets to Sweetie’s surprise. A warm smile between the two a moment later.
“Let’s go see this ‘Starswirl’.” The train ride was long, but not long enough for them both. The quiet path to the prison and deeper down below. To the very depths. Celestia led them quietly and stopped in front of the cell containing the cat. Beginning very simply at first: Sweetie began to shake violently at the sight.
“This…This is the cat that caused me so much pain? The cat that caused my friends to turn to ash in front of my eyes!?” Tears and furrowed brow: the shaking ceased as Sweetie slammed her hoof violently into the reinforced magical barrier and metal bars.
“WHY!” She cried out, “WHY DO THIS TO ME! What did I ever do to you!?” Her voice a steam now. Anguish on dismay as her eyes blazed with a fury that didn’t match her child form. The longer Starswirl took the louder and more violent her outburst became. Yet the cat took its sweet time slowly looking over: and standing. Slow and measured steps over to the bars.
“Meow,” it responded. Eye twitching: Sweetie screamed, and had to be dragged away by Rarity as Celestia and Starswirl watched her go. And then Celestia herself left. The cat then sat down, and licked his paw. Cleaning himself off as he gazed into the distance.
‘Be what may I am regretful for ruining that filly’s life,’ he thought despondently. Turning to curl up on a corner, and close his eyes.
‘But no answer I give will satisfy her. No: it is more no answer would be worthy of the anger she feels. Perhaps when older. Perhaps then. But not now.’
“This time you will answer me, Starswirl.” The mare walked in with a yellow friend beside her. Sweetie walked up to the bars as Fluttershy shivered slightly. The cat turned and rose, sitting in front of them with a bored expression.
“Meow.” ‘You cannot even understand me.’ And yet: to his shock Fluttershy translated his words verbatim.
Sweetie gave a mocking smile, “How about now? Talk!” Her hoof slammed against the bars. But the cat was unimpressed.
“’Alright then, tell me. Do you know how poor your magic is? Very. You are the only fily born since my death that has such a low potential. That meant you were the best one to house the power required. The lower the potential: the greater room for growth.’” Meowed the cat simply. Loweing her head, Sweetie’s mouth turned downward.
“….I was just born with the right level of magic?” Her voice shaky, and unsure.
“’Correct’” Responded the cat simply. It was really no hard feelings: maybe she would understand that.
Turning: Sweetie began to walk away, and called out to Fluttershy.
“Let’s go home: we’re done here.” The two left quietly, and Starswirl was once more left alone. A soft breath escaped the cat as they curled back up. A cough escaped them, a small bit of blood leaking. And then finally: they breathed no longer. A small eye opened eight times within a wriggling hive of eggs.
It was time.
Returning home, Sweetie resumed her life. A part of her smile no longer as bright. Songs more heavy, and haunting. Despite her trying to move on: it all came back to those weeks. Even with her friends having long since made up. Even with Snips and Snails to support her: a part of her soul was missing.
The loops might not have taken her life. But they took her heart. While she would recover with time: Sweetie would still have days where her mind was just in another place. Another time. Waking up to a room and wondering if it was truly the weekend. Maybe it was too late to move forward.
Maybe the weekend had never truly come, and her life was a looping of time.
Sweetie snuggled into her sleeping bag, considering going to bed. After remembering her Mark, she sat up and looked toward the clock that was technically hers now. Levitating it over, she waited as time slowly ticked over.
11:59…
12:00
Sweetie glanced to her flank, and sighed in relief. Her Mark was still there. Rubbing it, Sweetie smiled warmly, remembering the moment with crystal clarity. It was something she was never going to forget, that’s for sure. The question was, how could she use the loops to achieve it? Sweetie sighed and shifted further into her sleeping bag.
Rarity would be looking for her in the morning. Groaning, Sweetie sat up and quickly packed her things into a corner. Sweetie knew none of the Crusaders would be coming to the clubhouse, so it was safe to leave things here. Turning, Sweetie trotted outside, closing the door with her magic.
Shivering in the cold, she walked through the deserted streets. Eventually she made her way back to the boutique, and entered quietly. Sneaking upstairs, she quickly checked her sister’s room. Creeping into her room, she was pleased to see the damage was gone, and slipped quietly into the sheets.
Giving a yawn, Sweetie settled into wonderful dreams about her Mark. Sweetie dreamed of her friends seeing it, and praising her. Sweetie smiled in her sleep. Finally, all three of them could potentially gain their marks. That might be the key to getting out of the loop. Sweetie dared to hope it was, finally slipping into slumber.
Sweetie cracked her eyes open to the midday sun in brief confusion as her mind struggled to comprehend it. This wasn’t normal. Where was the call for breakfast? For Pancakes…Always pancakes. Slowly rising: she looked to her hoof, and then to her open door. Wandering out and down to find Rarity and Twilight downstairs. Worried.
Strange…
“Good morning Sweetie. I-“Cutting Rarity off: Sweetie lifted a hoof firmly, and spoke. “What day is it?” The two shared a glance.
“Saturday,” they spoke eventually. For a moment: time froze for Sweetie. Gaze lowering as her eyes flicked left to right wildly. Her breathing grew quicker and faster as her body shook, and she dashed upstairs to her room. Closing the door. Leaning against it: her eyes closed tightly shut as she began to softly cry.
Wrong. It was all wrong. This was wrong. She wasn’t supposed to get free without reason! Where was the solving!? Where was the answers!? A hoof slammed into the door as she gave a cry in anguish.
“DAMN YOU STARSWIIIRL!” She cried out as sobs racked her body. Slowly slumping against the door before curling up. Free…no. No.
“You’ve cursed me… I’m cursed…I can’t live a normal life after this.” Shivering as her body convulsed: she noticed a pair of eyes under the bed. Opal slowly walked out: regarding her calmly. The cat stepped forward and placed a paw on sweetie. A presence. A feeling.
‘If you wish to forget: I can help you. You will live a free and happy life. But you must truly wish for this. You need to let go.’ That voice. Was that Opal? Sweetie’s expression dilated, and then narrowed to pinpricks.
“Star..swirl….” Her magic grabbed the cat, and pinned it down. Sweetie rose to her full height: shaking once more. But with a far more violent emotion.
‘The choice is yours. We can either go with the predicable outcome: me in jail yet again: or you can let me go.’ The voice was cold: dispassionate. As if he was talking down to Sweetie.
This man….No. This…this villain! Sweetie couldn’t believe it! Did he honestly believe she’d just FORGIVE and forget!? After all he did to her!? That she’d just let it go because he said ‘sowwy?’ Madness was not yet a thought in her mind.
“Never,” she growled at him. Then she dragged the cat downstairs: so the adults could handle it.
Sweetie would then return upstairs, and curl up in her blankets. Wondering if she’d made the right choice as visages of her friends continued to laugh at her.
“Sweetie Belle…hasn’t been doing well.” Spoke Rarity gently.
“Aww….but we haven’t seen her in weeks!” Retorted Applebloom with a whine.
“Go away,” shouted a voice from Sweetie Belle’s room. The three flinched, and the two fillies retreated. A sigh escaped Rarity, and she ascended to her sister’s room. Opening the door she looked in solemnly. Sitting in the darkness: staring at old letters.
“Sweetie…maybe it’s time to let it go.” Reaching out for her sister: she flinched as one eye turned to her with pure rage.
“Never! I will never give up!” Pivoting: Sweetie gripped her sisters shoulders.
“I’m going to find Starswirl. Not these fragments. Echoes of the true one.” She narrowed her eyes.
“And I’m going to bring an army. I don’t care if it takes me my life: I will break through and back into the loops. I will find him. And see this ends. Properly.” Letting her go: Sweetie turned back to the notes.
“Sweetie…it is ov-“ Rarity was cut off.
“NO IT IS NOT!” Screeched Sweetie as she rounded on her sister. Pointing a hoof as she spoke.
“Twilight herself can back me up on this. There is only one explanation as to why the loop suddenly halted like this. I’m not some fool! Each loop creates a separate universe!” Sweetie placed a hand on her chest, and proclaimed loudly so the world could damn her actions.
“I’m going to go to each and every one. And make sure Starswirl sees Justice.” Her horn began to spark as threads of powerful and ancient magic curled around her horn. Rarity reared back in alarm as her sister began to float in the air.
“You have to stop this Sweetie! Think about us! About your future!” Rarity couldn’t believe what was happening. Tears springing to her eyes as she reached out only to be slapped away.
“I love you sister. Goodbye.” And with a sharp CRACK-̴ ̸r̵e̴a̸l̸i̶t̸y̶ ̵o̷p̵e̷n̶e̷d̴ ̵u̷p̷.̴ ̵A̷n̷d̸ ̸S̸w̶e̵e̴t̷i̸e̸ ̵s̸a̸w̶ ̶t̴h̶e̵ ̸t̷r̴u̶t̷h̷ ̶o̸f̵ ̶t̵h̵e̵ ̶s̵p̸e̴l̶l̸.̶ ̷A̶n̵d̷ ̵j̵u̴s̵t̸ ̶h̷o̶w̷ ̴f̷a̴r̶ ̶t̷h̶e̵ ̴l̶o̵o̵p̵s̴ ̴t̸r̵u̸l̵y̴ ̵w̴e̵n̸t̵.̷ ̸F̶o̶r̸ ̴a̸ ̶m̶o̵m̶e̴n̶t̸:̵ ̶s̶h̸e̴ ̶h̷e̶s̷i̶t̷a̸t̷e̸d̵.̵ ̵D̸i̷d̴ ̴s̷h̷e̷ ̴d̴a̸r̸e̵ ̴g̸o̸ ̶t̸h̴r̴o̴u̸g̶h̴?̶
̵̟͖͛͝B̵͚͈̮̄͝r̴̻̼͐͐͠i̴̧̯͓̐̓̃e̴̢̠̝̋f̴̪͗̀͊l̸͙̫̰̋̕ý̸̯̓͠:̷̹̥͌͠ ̷͉̌s̶̰̖͛̋h̶͈̑ë̴̜̹̓ ̵̩͖̳̀͛g̶̨̳͌l̶̡̘̳̑a̴͔͍̮͗͆̈n̶̺͕͆̽̽c̵̨̛͓̕ė̵̞̯̹d̵̡̀̂ ̸̣̭͘ḅ̷͇̽̽͐à̴̦̥̙c̸̲͊̕ķ̶͠,̶̣̜͈͐ ̸̙̝̈́̀ä̸ͅn̵̡̖͑͘͝d̴͇̝̭͐̕͝ ̷͎͆̀̍ş̴̦͕̇͊a̶̭͈͇̒w̷̺͆ ̵̡̮̓t̴̖̊͌h̶͍̩̄͝͠e̷̡͕̝͒̇͝ ̷̲̯̘̑͐s̶̤͈̬̊͂l̸̡̟̘̀̄̔ö̴̫́̉͜͝w̴͕͆̍̿ ̷̓̋̅͜d̷̦̬́̚ę̷̡̽g̶̻̻̤̒ŗ̵͚̆ã̶͍͚̭̉d̵̨͎̒̏̕â̶̭ṫ̷̛̗̐i̶͎̘̒̀̀o̸̡̡̺̔͋̃ņ̷̯̰̏̄͠ ̶̤̖̐o̴̙̳͓͊̈́f̷̼͆̿ ̵͍̱͋e̶̱͐ả̸̡͍c̷̝̲͜͝h̵͉̗̿͒̚ ̵̡̨̻͘S̵̗̘̈́̀̄w̴̧͉͉̌ę̶̺̲͋̌̐e̶̝̣͍͋t̴̞̬͋̕i̸̞̤̱͑͒ę̸̇.̴̨̞̺̊̄ ̷̰̠̍̇A̷̡̅̊ ̸͚̺͛͐s̸̫̟͍̆͘͠ö̸̻͚́̋f̴͈̺̿́̚t̷̖͎̝́͌͝ ̴̘̑f̶͖͕͒͊͜ŕ̷͔͘̕ọ̶̏̑͝w̴͔̃́̍n̶̹̈́͝ ̴̬̿o̷̢̙̅͊̈́ņ̶͎͒ ̶̙̻̄h̵̫͇̞͆̚͘è̶̠͎̪̃͐r̶̲͘͜ ̴̰̈́f̸̥̆a̶̹̬͖̾͐c̶̟͇͝é̴͓́͑.̴̪̈͑ͅ ̸̜͆̈́Ṋ̷͚͒o̸̻͋̈́ ̶̭̣̣͐̒͌ḓ̵͇̀̏͘a̸̙̭̘͆͆m̴̟̋̀͜å̷̗͙̩͊g̴͖͑̈́e̸͕̤͑͋.̶̲̭̩̃̀͛ ̵̰̮̑S̸͙̺̹̏o̵̜̗͊m̷͍̈́e̴͕͗̅͘.̷̦̜̹̈́̽̔ ̸͔̌̾͑R̴̹̠̯̈́̃͠ě̵͖̊̾s̸͍̟̙̃̓i̵̓ͅs̷̨̿́̆ţ̴̛̼ͅĩ̸̝̯n̴̤̼͔̒̍̅g̴̢͓͓̕ ̷͔̦̆h̴̭̥͚̕͝ǐ̴̢̯̀͑s̴͕͇͝ ̴̲̍̀s̷̥̐p̴̟͛e̷̘̤̾̋͝ḻ̶̛̼l̶̲͈̔̚s̸͎̲͊̌͗ͅ.̴̼́͘ ̶͚͙̯͆Ä̸̭́n̸̝͛̈g̵̯̈u̶̳͗̀ì̷͚̗͛̉s̶̮̿͂̅h̴͐ͅ…̸̲̻͛H̸̪͗͊ō̶̩̻w̸̡̅̏̏ ̸̯͚̬̕m̷̧̯͋̓u̸͎̪̝͒c̵̢͈̬̅̊͘ḧ̷̫͇͓́́͊ ̵͙͔̒̀p̶̺̤͆̌à̷̖̯͓i̷̹̳̤̓͛̄n̸̙͖̆̐͗ ̸͍̿̊̀w̵̨̙̋ͅo̸͚̹̤͑̽̔u̸͙͋̉l̵̨̥̉̈͠d̶̻̭̙̀̀ ̷̡͖̐b̶̡̫͇͋è̶̮̥̋ ̶̻̝̄͌ç̶͓͙̑̈̎ä̴͍́͘ų̸͊͊̀s̷̱̲̜͆e̶̙̱͍͝d̷̮͒ ̶̛̬̥ì̵̺̹̼͝n̶̨̛̲̏̑ ̴̬̦̾f̴̩̒u̸̢̅ṭ̴̥̐u̴̗̱͌̎̚ͅr̴̲̊e̴̡̲͑̒ ̴̱̯͓̃l̵̻͚͊̽͝ơ̸͔͒́ŏ̷̲͕̏̓p̴̨̘̀s̵̡͎̥̆͋?̴̰̫̿ͅ ̸̧͒̅͠H̸̪͂̍͌e̵̛̙̞̽͌͜r̴̲̀́̄ ̴̢̖͛ḡ̵͉̱͝a̴̼̥͌z̵̲͉͈̀̈́ḙ̴̩͐͛̚ ̷̠̘̍̓ͅw̵̼̬̓̚e̴̢͚͊n̷͉̝̈́t̴̖͊ ̷̩̚t̴̖̉o̷͍̍̇͂ ̶̳̺͒̉̎͜t̸́̂ͅḥ̶̢͙͂̄͘e̶̘̦̳͌̇͗ ̴̼̜̆̒̐b̷̗͔͐l̸̞̖͆̔́͜ǔ̶̧̪̼ŗ̴̭̩͒̀r̷̛̪͍̓y̴̝̺̐ ̷̲̠͖̉f̶̫̺̙̔̎u̷͕̹͂t̴̳͒͋͆u̷̼͒r̶͔̥̃͛è̴͐̇ͅ.̴̛̥͑́
̴̘̕͠ͅ
̵̪̩̝̣͍̭͐̆͘“̸̡̟̣̺́͋͜İ̶̟̩̈̎̈́̆̎̚͝ ̷͖̙̊̄̇̄̓̓͝h̵̤̲̠̮̲̀̿̚ą̸̨̬̠̞̙͑̍̀͘ṽ̷̛̪̫̻͎̙͒͜è̵̤̞̈́͋̿͘͝ ̶̯͈̩͛̐̾̓͝ţ̶̨̜̲̄͌̀̓͆̎͝ͅǫ̸̢̨̲̰̂̿̏͂̋͘͘ ̸̧̙̐̆̈s̴̡͖͙̹̭̒͆̀͛ả̴̉̄͜ͅv̴̨̤̲̼̜̳̒̇̐͊͂̏́ͅe̸̤͓̮̩͑͐͒͜͝͠ ̸͕͖͚̱̮̎m̶̛̲̅͂̈́̏̐͜ỳ̸̡̱͎̙͕̮̔͛̾̏͜s̶̗̙̐̽͗̆̃̏̂̐͜ḝ̵̧̤̩̞̯̗̳̔ľ̵̛̳͓̯̈̾̀̊̀f̵̙̹̺̞̫̬̬́͝ͅ…̸̪̘̰͓̲̝̀̾̈̇͘̕Î̷̢̛̠̎̏̍̇͝’̸̦̫́̂̾ļ̵̜̝͎͕̙̭̭́͊͘ḽ̸̋̀̄̑͆͒̓͝ ̶̹̞̩̓͋͋͘c̵̡͔̝͕͆̎͋̓o̴̼̊̎̑̓͐̚m̷̞̹̗͕͆̍͋͗̂̏̐͝ͅͅe̷̘͙̓͗̌̽ ̶̢̝̤̗̮̳̽̇̈̓̏̽b̸̯̤̳͇̦̲̰͖̈́a̴͖̿͌̈́̇̀͘͝c̶͙̫̙̦͓͗̈̄̑̑̕ķ̴͇̩̦̼̆̽͛͜͠ ̴̜̙̮͂̈́͘ș̸̲͋̌̉̈́ȯ̵̢̬͓̩̘̿̀͘͜ṃ̸̥͔̤̫͒͋͑͂͝ȩ̸͚̪͔̦͔͐̇̔̈ͅd̸̮̫̫̀̿͝å̶̫̩̲̮͙͐ȳ̶̮̮̖͊̈́̕ͅͅ…̵̤̮̙̏̈́͆̈͋̀̿̚I̸̧̫̻͘̚ ̶̟̹̓̿̽̓̋p̷̪̼̮͉̹̠̀͛̎͐̾͗̽͘r̷̲̞͓͉̩̥͚̔̉͗̑̾́͗͘͜o̷̤͆̀̏̄̀̓m̴͉̮̳̂̒̇̄ͅi̴̯̹̝̐̍̓̏̔̌ṣ̶̡̭̥͕͑̊̿̈͝é̴̹̃̇̓̊͊…̴̡̧̮̼̮͖́̔̋͘”̵̻͎͓͔̬̀̃̓̽̀͂͑
̵͎̭̠̲̻͇̮̝͗̌
̵A̷n̷d̸ ̷j̴u̸s̵t̶ ̵l̸i̴k̶e̶ ̴t̴h̷a̸t̵:̷ ̵she was gone.
“I’m sorry Rarity, this is my fault,” sighed Twilight softly. “If only I’d not mentioned my parallel universes theory…” The sobbing Rarity had no words left to add. What more could be said. Sweetie was gone, and they had no way of knowing if or when she’d return.
“I couldn’t stop her Twilight. I’ve failed as her sister.” There was nothing that could be done. And yet…Twilight bit her lip and glanced away.
“…We might be able to follow her,” She spoke eventually. That faint spark of hope was enough to get Rarity to lift her head. They could follow her…
“…Please…” she gripped Twilight: begging her. “I just want to keep my sister safe. Please Twilight…” Nothing else: this was all Rarity could think about. What else mattered? Not their deadbeat parents back in Canterlot that’s for sure.
“Alright Rarity.” Hugging her friend: Twilight closed her eyes.
“Just know: this might be a one way trip. If where she’s going doesn’t have a way back…” Even then: Twilight already knew Rarity’s answer.
“I don’t care. She’s my sister.
Appearing in her room: Sweetie looked around for a moment, and saw her target. Grabbing the cat she held him against the wall. Eyes narrowing as his widened in shock. A brief smile fell on her face. Satisfied to have gotten one up on him: even just one time.
“Starswirl: I will make you see justice for your crimes.” Smirked Sweetie as she proudly began to drag the cat downstairs with her magic. The cat seemed a big bemused if anything by this. Especially when Sweetie stepped outside to find Ponyville near empty. A lone pony besides her wandering the streets at the moment. A Pegasus with lanky legs named Featherweight.
“A- S—G-GHOST!” He cries out and flies away in alarm. Tilting her head at that: Sweetie glanced down to Starswirl. Shaking it off: she stomped toward the train station. Occasionally a pony could be glimpsed from a window: but they all quickly fled when she looked over.
“Alright. Spill it.” Sweetie glared at the cat: whom began to purr in response.
“I know you can talk. A previous version did.” That seemed to get his attention, and his gaze centred on Sweetie’s.
‘Fascinating. Travel through loops must be possible. Why. I wonder if my previous versions discovered this. Where are they then I wonder. Are you the first? Or the quickest to the punch.’ The cat continued to purr, a paw placed on Sweetie’s head as the voice spoke.
“Why are people calling me a ghost Starswirl,” Growled the filly.
‘Oh. This version of you suffered an unfortunate fortunate accident that caused the majority of the populace to vanish. By my count roughly 60% of the population in Equestria. Fascinating no?’ The cat continued to purr. At least: until Sweetie shook it violently.
“Snap out of your delusions! What do you mean ‘unfortunate fortunate!?’ What do you mean sixty percent!?” There was no way this was reality: no possible way. And yet…Sweetie knew it to be the truth. As unbelievable as it was: the lack of Pegasi in the sky, and people around left no doubt.
‘Oh. This little ‘accident’ sped up progress greatly. Instead of perhaps a thousand loops: it will likely only need a hundred. Their magic will be great fuel for the spell.’ The voice was almost joyfully. Hairs stood up on Sweetie’s spine as she shuddered in disgust.
“Forget it.” Beginning to walk: a sigh escaped Sweetie.
“We’ve got a long walk to Canterlot….Can I trust you to behave?” The laughter in response told her all she needed to know. A stop to Twilight’s then. Maybe she had something…
‘Why not just bring me with you? Then you can ‘make me see justice’ in a world where public transportation exists.’ No way that was a good idea. Sweetie’s gaze scanned the rooms as she tried to find Twilight in this mess. No Twilight: but she did find a Spike. Eyes wide in horror at her.
“Twilight’s gone too then,” she spoke simply. Spike rapidly nodded. Glancing to the window: a scowl graced Sweetie’s face.
‘Damnit…With Twilight gone there really is no good way to get to Canterlot…Is moving to the next Loop truly the best option?’ Sweetie mused quietly as she thought quickly, and glanced back to Spike.
“Spike. Does Twilight have any spells for capturing someone?” Gaze firm: and focused. Hoping an authoritative tone would get him to answer. A jolt: and her hopes were answered.
“Y-Yes but they’re high level spells.” So that was a bust then. Sweetie gritted her teeth. She looked to the cat and cried out.
“FINE! You win this round. But I won’t stop until ALL of you are punished!”
Rarity and Twilight wandered the ghost town, and soon met up with Spike. After soothing the small dragon: Twilight asked for details. She bit her hoof in thought. This was not good…
“If Starswirl can manipulate Sweetie to bring him along…what else can he do?” Twilight began to pace in thought: grabbing a few books to add to her saddlebag. Then she turned and gave Spike a hug.
“…I’m sorry. I have to go.” Her gaze soft and apologetic. Spike slowly looked down.
“….Take me with you…please.” The claws gripped Twilight’s hoof as a fresh pang of guilt. Sure they’d told –her- Spike they’d be back. But this Spike had no one…
“Alright.” Giving in: she sighed and glanced to Rarity.
“I’ll need your help to cast the spell. Three creatures is…tricky.” Twilight explained simply.
“How about five?” A voice spoke: and Twilight pivoted in shock. And then she smiled brightly. It was them! All her worries melted away as she moved over to hug them.
“Well. I’ll need a little help,” she admitted. “If that’s ok.” A light chuckle left the two as they shared a glance.
“That’s my student.”
In the depths of magic: below layers of web and fabric. A singular being stirred: one eye opening in curiosity. Something was at play. The spell had changed. As if something had shifted. Where magic had been coming from one source: said source had jumped to a dead source. And now it jumped further still. But that wasn’t what was curious.
Using the wake of the jumper: passengers were coming through after her. And the group on both ends was growing. Stretching and standing up: he moved over to a mirror, a reflection. Looking through it at the events unfolding. Gaze cold and vacant of emotion. So this was the answer. Magic would follow the source and then collapse inward at the end.
“I can use this,” he pondered quietly.
“They will seek a Starswirl to punish after all is said and done. Can use this to escape without harm. All I’d have to do it put on a good enough show and- well maybe faking my death again would be a good choice.” He mumbled.
“And yet: I will need a new body to take over. Someone young. But powerful. Someone so forgotten. Someone….not all that Noteworthy.” His blank expression turned into a smile.
Twilight looked around as ponies went about their day from her windows. A book sitting beside the windowsill. Occasionally: she would see a face she’d recognise. A violent flash of memories, and a shudder. Then: she would turn away and pick up her book. Trying to read. Trying to move past her memories. But all too quickly the book was placed down: and her gaze went to the window again.
The week had been like that for her. And the week after. It was hard to focus when the one thing you lacked was focus. And yet: her mind continued to wander. Not even hearing or feeling the throb of magic downstairs: or the cry of alarm. Sighing softly: her mind went over the absence of her friend Rarity.
“Spike,” she spoke softly as the door creaked open. Gaze turning as she began to lecture. “I told you I need some time alone to-day...” Eyes meeting violet eyes. Twilight saw a third version of herself. And for a moment: she couldn’t stop from pressing back against the window and taking in a shuddering breath. Quicker and quicker her breathing came as she began to feel lightheaded.
Aging aging over and over the Twilight in front of her continued. The mouth moved but no words reached. Tears slowly forming as she began to hyperventilate and press even more against the wall.
“D-Don’t come any closer,” she spoke with fear. But no: the double did just that. More and more the warm and cozy room shifted to a street as the ponies took on shapes and shadows. All walking toward her and rapidly aging. Fading to ash only to reform and age again. Body shaking as her mind sought the only escape left: and relieving darkness greeted her.
Spike ran to her in alarm: but the magic of the lavender unicorn was faster. Catching and gently placing Twilight down as a sigh escaped her. Two Alicorns looked on with concern. One moving over with a glowing horn to scan her dreams. Luna then reared back in fright: crying out.
“Lunar bodies!” Coughing at her language: Luna leaned forward once more, and began to soothe the nightmares plaguing Twilight. The other lavender mare just watched on quietly: awaiting the answer.
“This Twilight appears to have witnessed the previous loops ending. And saw many ponies turned to ash in an instant.” Luna looked to the others with a frown.
"Spike: where is Sweetie Belle?" The lavender unicorn asked him.
“Well…Sweetie was having constant nightmares. So they took her to Manehattan once the weekend was over. They’re hoping some proper help can walk her through the healing process. It was weird too…She came by earlier today asking similar questions…” Sharing a glance: the others swiftly moved to head toward the first place she’d look. The loop version of Spike, SpikeL, remained behind to watch over his Twilight. TwilightL.
“Starswirl!” Darting downstairs: Sweetie found the front door open. Continuing outside: she ran for her home. Opening the door a moment later as she searched the place. No cats. Holding up the Starswirl in her magic, she glared at him.
“Where is he?” The cat merely purred in response.
’I don’t know.’ Useless. Sweetie threw her magic back and dashed to the garden. And then further out. Looking: searching. But finally: she found Opal: sitting on the roof of their home right where she’d started. A swift tug of magic: and Sweetie was soon heading to the Train station. Ticket paid for: she began the journey there.
The cats quietly meowed at each other for the entire trip: but a few hours later and Sweetie was in Canterlot. Wandering up to the castle: she was stopped by guards.
“Tell Celestia I’ve found Starswirl.” Boldly: she spoke. They paused: but one moved to deliver the message. It was a short moment after that the two princesses arrived: and took the cats. Puzzled at first: Sweetie pulled out her notes for them.
“I was once in a time loop. I am no longer: and I see to ensure these Starswirls are given proper justice.” Eyes firm and serious: Sweetie did not relax for a second until they two cats were safely confined. Once done so: her eyes drooped, and she let out a relieved breath.
“Th-there. I did it. I saved…” Collapsing to one side in exhaustion: Sweetie was plucked into the air by Celestia. The two shared a glance: and then to the letter they’d received a few hours earlier.
“Let her borrow my bed Sister. I will watch over her.”
The morning came: and Sweetie saw double. Double Princesses. A soft groan escaped her as her head throbbed. Was she back in a loop? A sudden surge of panic hit her. No…no no no. Sweetie rapidly tried to rise: only to find her body refused her demands.
“Gently Sweetie: you’re suffering some backlash from overusing your magic. You’re lucky you didn’t crack it further.” Spoke Twilight softly as she stepped closer. Rarity looked to her sister firmly as she did the same.
“Sweetie. What did you think would happen pushing yourself like this? You could have gotten yourself killed.” Hugging her: Rarity began to cry. Looking up and sighing was the response Sweetie gave.
“Rarity. I have to do this. I have to save myself. You can’t stop me.” Resolute with conviction: her gaze stared into Rarity. The sister moved back and gave a sad smile.
“I know…that’s why I’m coming with you. We all are.” Rarity motions to the others. One of the Celestia’s coughed.
“We will pass ourselves,” remarked CelestiaL. “We have duties.” Understanding nods followed.
“Then it’s settled,” remarked Twilight with a salute. “We will be Team StarNO. Rarity, Twilight, Celestia, Luna, and Sweetie Belle.” Her gaze went to the filly, and she smiled.
“But –you- need rest first. Deal? No more running off.” A soft laugh was the response Twilight got.
“Alright alright. I’m sorry. I just….” Sweetie looked down in embarrassment. “I wanted to make a dramatic exit…”
They all shared a quiet laugh at that. At Sweetie’s expense.
Sweetie was now sulking.
Sweetie Belle…had to sit down after that one. Her mind fractured as she stared at the grinning filly in front of her. The adults quietly looking over pictures in the background brought out of a scrapbook. A hoof sailed to her temple to attempt to rub the migraine from it. This failed: naturally.
“I just…You…I….” Once more her head was rubbed. And it took her a solid five minutes to realise the adults had left to go and find a certain cat. Leaving Sweetie alone with her other loping counterpart. With the silence stretching between them: the other finally spoke.
“So your ‘break loop’ was the one where we got our Cutie Mark?” Slowly approaching: SweetieL sat down beside Sweetie Bell.
“Yeah. And then I went through…those loops.” She shivered. “But I can’t stop now. I have to make sure Starswirl sees justice.” Brow furrowing with concentration: the two shared a look. Then rose, and moved to seek out the adults.
“You thinking what I’m thinking?” They both nodded in unison.
“We team up-We get ice cream!” Both stopped, and looked to each other. Breaking into giggles they pointed to the other.
“I was going to say teaming up but I figured a joke would help after what you saw.” Remarked SweetieL.
“I wasn’t even thinking of jokes, I was busy thinking about Starswirl.” The other Sweetie laughed.
“We’re going to need a way to differentiate ourselves then.” Commented them both. Their gazes went to the saddlebags Sweetie was wearing, that SweetieL was not.
“By loop?” “By loop.”
And thus: Sweetie12 and Sweetie15 shared a cross dimensional hoof bump.
“Is that really wise?” The nearest Twilight asked: concerned. They both nodded in unison.
“This cannot possibly go wrong!” Chimed Sweetie12.
“It increases our chances of victory!” Responded Sweetie15. Before looking thoughtful. RarityL sighed softly.
“You’ll bring my Sweetie back safely…right.” Her gaze cast to the other Rarity: the two shared an unspoken agreement.
“Of course. That’s why I’m coming along after all.” With so many adults discussing things: it quickly devolved into chaos. Growing bored: the two fillies wandered away.
“You know,” remarked Twilight. “Those two are oddly…distinct.” Her gaze watching them walk side by side with different gaits.
“Do you think each loop and experience changes them…slowly but surely?” Her gaze went to the others, and TwilightL nodded.
“What if…the later loops get worse…” Her gaze downward as she frowned: Twilight regarded the adults there. Considering it for a moment: Rarity nodded firmly.
“She’ll have us.” Silence stretching for a moment after: Rarity repeated her words.
“No matter what we see: she’ll have us. And I truly believe together we can keep her safe and happy. Right Twilight?” Stepping over to her friend: Rarity gazed deeply into her eyes. Meeting them: Twilight glanced away for a moment, and then back. Determination filling them with fire.
“Right! Now let’s go catch Starswirl.”
Sensing the magic getting closer to his location: Starswirl purred for a moment. His mind pricked by the delight of their decision. With a claw, and the door slamming open: he casually left their reality like one would a room.
“StarSWIRL!” Sweetie12 cried out in furious anger as she jumped at where he had been, and stomped the ground. Snorting madly as she paced around. Meanwhile: Sweetie15 watched this display with a soft frown. Flinching as her double cried out again, and began to charge a spell.
“What are you doing!?” Stepping closer: Twilight interrupted the spell and met the face of the beast.
“I’m going. After. STARSWIRL Twilight!” She remarked passive aggressively. Gently: Rarity placed a hoof on Sweetie12’s shoulder.
“I know hon…but you…Need to calm down. The princesses haven’t arrived yet. We don’t know what we’re walking into next ah…loop.” Hugging her: Rarity could feel the shaking slow down as Sweetie12 calmed. Glancing to her room: Sweetie15 stepped inside, and began to pack a few things. Considering her doubles state: she was able to easily understand how something like that could happen.
‘I can feel the anger too…but…why am I not as angry? Aren’t we the same pony?’ With a shake of her head: Sweetie15 packed her things and moved back toward the group. By this point the Princesses had joined them: and the spell was being prepared to cast. Tapping a foot impatiently: Sweetie12 was eager to be off.
As the spell was cast, and they began to be transported away: Sweetie15 couldn’t help but feel a tinge of doubt. The home warped and faded as the magic took hold. No headaches plagued her anymore since the loop’s end. But where were they going? Was this truly the same place? A soft sigh escaped her as she turned her gaze forward to their destination.
Thinking about it would only give a headache.
Reappearing in a puff of magic in the now vacant room: Starswirl purred softly, and quickly sought out his companion. The two swiftly moved away from the home and toward the woods. With time not on their side: they needed to go somewhere where things remained lost. As they walked: the two were dead silent. But once they stopped to drink: the two began to speak.
“Is this truly wise? We may destabilise the spell.” StarswirlL remarked to Starswirl15.
“Wise or not. I’m really not in a mood to be jailed. Are you.” The two began walking once more.
“What are we even seeking out here?” Glancing around at the ruins: StarswirlL followed the other inside.
“Just a place to hide and plan. What are we to do with the white menaces?” The two paced and thought and concocted. Unaware of the force watching them. It listened into their plan, and watched them vanish without a word. The Zebra stepped out to the location they had been in, and frowned softly.
“Bode well: this does not. I must go and tell them lots.” With a turn of her head: Zecora would begin to travel the path through the Everfree. Without much to go on: the striped pony had only one person on her mind to tell this too.
In a land called Equestria: does she dwel;
A Zebra named Zecora: amid the swell.
The forest that looms would choke away most,
But never the one who dealt with it most.
Dashing through paths and animal trails,
Black and white flashes amidst the veils.
But even with all that could be seen in sight:
Twas what came before that caused the most fright.
Two cats that were white as snow:
Planning the death of a filly and so…
With what she heard had she dashed through the night;
Arriving in the morning to explain her plight.
But amid her worries did she find something odd:
Two of the one: now three. What the sod?
Try as she might to listen to their story:
Her words ended the conversation and gave way to worry.
“They plan something in the woods we fear?”
“I’m afraid so: their time draws near.”
With the 12 and 15 and 16 in tow:
They dashed in to give Starswirl what they owed.
Alas the travel was dangerous and challenging,
Especially with three loud fillies arguing.
“We must go after him in all the timelines!”
“Would you stop bickering and watch the inclines!”
With their journey soon coming to an end:
What they witnessed would take long to mend.
A serpent engorged upon the spires:
Chaotic energies held amid the fires.
The blood seeped deep into the Everfree,
Feeding monsters desperate. I plead:
“Why would you bring this curse upon us all?
With your actions alone we’re doomed to fall!”
The cats just smiled and clutched the orb.
It was then that it was soon absorbed.
The land split in two as the group swiftly fled:
All but three fillies up way past their bed.
Together the three charged the creature:
And then vanished with all the castle’s features.
I cannot claim to believe my eyes:
But the hole in the Everfree remains to my surprise.
The others followed with a flick of a spell:
And that is where Zecora bid her farewells.
So if you read this carving at this sight:
Beware the pit. With that: goodnight.
With the quiet echoes of the three fillies leaving: Loop 17 Sweetie rose, and moved to head out of her room. Meeting up with her equally shocked sister as they shared a hug. Clutching her as she began to cry softly. The nightmare was over. She was free. With a gasp: she stepped back and ran for the door.
“My friends!” Watching her dash away: Rarity let out a soft and warm smile. All right with the world once more. Wounds would take time to heal. Memories to fade and forget. But with the strength of her sister on full display: Rarity has no doubt she would rise to the challenge.
Dashing and running: Sweetie slid to a stop at the front of the home of Applebloom. Slowly stepping forward to where her friend was. Words escaping them both: a hug was all that was shared. Broken bonds mending with a simple moment. Memories fading like embers in a fire. No…Sweetie didn’t care about some dumb cat or quest.
All she cared about was this. New experiences. Having friends and family. With the day weaning to a close: she wandered the area with a content smile. Breathing in the new air. Taking roads never travelled. Pausing to listen to some music from a window. Gazing up to see a stallion playing with a sad smile.
A vague thought occurred to the filly, and she moved to knock on the door. The music fading as it creaked open. Pawing the ground for a moment: she looked up hopefully.
“Would you teach me how to play?”
“And now: introducing the Ponyville Quartet.” Stepping onto the stage: Sweetie moved over to the synth piano, and began to play. The jams and sounds echoing in her head as she smiled, and swayed, and danced and cheered. Without a moment of doubt or fear.
The crowd cheered as the small group in the VIP section smiled with pride. Coming to every one of her shows. Without question: no matter the years that passed.
“I’m telling you she’s a total liar. Time travel doesn’t exist,” a filly grumbled as they walked away. The pony chuckled as she moved back to her work. Quietly making her way through the dance moves as she continued to practice. Without a doubt she was born with two left hooves. But that didn’t matter. Time was the one resource she had to spend.
Until her time ran out. Day by day. Moment by moment. Each one lived to it’s fullest.
Discord wasn’t happy. It wasn’t the lack of bananas in his dimension. Nor the mysterious disappearance of his novelty wing collection. No: it was the fact others were doing chaos without him! Inviting himself to reality: he brought more chaos and fun through as he began to set up a small stall, and put on a striped bowler hat.
“Step right up and see the Chaos! Better than any Princess can!” The crowd gathered: moving swiftly to enjoy a little bit of chaos in their day.
Unfortunately: Celestia was not amused. Marching over with a glower as she pointed.
“Who gave you permission to open a class 3 chaos vortex in the center of Ponyville? We said nothing above a class 1!” Turning with a grin and a smile: Discord booped her on the nose.
“Boop~ Well Iiii didn’t see you getting permission for your class 2 use of chaotic bananas and assorted wingstuffs.” The two shared a look. The battle was on. Turning: Celestia plopped herself in front of ANOTHER stand. A portal appearing behind her.
The competition began.
Slowly but surely the pandemonium erupted and chaos quickly grew. Leaning on the windowsill: Sweetie just stared and watched as her mind considered the ramifications of butter turrets and sun cannonballs. With the window closing she turned and moved to flop on her bed.
“Who would have thought my life could get weirder.” She remarked as she stared at her lime green ceiling with gumdrop buttons.
“I wonder if I should join in…Maybe I can convince Discord to be business partners…Or Celestia. She does owe me after all this.” Eyes closing: she heard the crack of thunder from the chocolate volcano. Erupting to destroy the banana army as it advanced on the portal of Righteousness.
“…Then again maybe this is more crazy than I can handle” she decided.”
Sweetie Loop 12: Driven, desires to see Starswirl locked away in every Loopline.
SL 15: Less driven: a little bit shy.
SL 16: Kind of just along for the ride and insanity. Has no idea what's going on.