> Guardian of Legends - Unity
>  by The Hero of Harmony
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1 - Friendship is Magic, Part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------



 Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria, there were two regal sisters who ruled together and created harmony for all the land.

To do this, the eldest used her unicorn powers to raise the sun at dawn; the younger brought out the moon to begin the night. Thus, the two sisters maintained balance for their kingdom and their subjects, all the different types of ponies.

But as time went on, the younger sister became resentful. The ponies relished and played in the day her elder sister brought forth, but shunned and slept through her beautiful night.

One fateful day, the younger unicorn refused to lower the moon to make way for the dawn. The elder sister tried to reason with her, but the bitterness in the young one's heart had transformed her into a wicked mare of darkness: Nightmare Moon.

She vowed that she would shroud the land in eternal night. Reluctantly, the elder sister harnessed the most powerful magic known to ponydom: the Elements of Harmony. Using the magic of the Elements of Harmony, she defeated her younger sister, and banished her permanently in the moon. The elder sister took on responsibility for both...




"...the sun and moon..." The young lavender unicorn read aloud in a storybook she has been reading, with interest.

"...and harmony has been maintained in Equestria for generations since. Hmm... Elements of Harmony. I know I've heard of those before... But where?" The young mare asked herself, as she placed her hoof up to her chin and looked up to the sky.





The Badlands - Mysterious South
A Day before the Summer Solstice






The Badlands... A region southeast of Equestria, part of the Mysterious South, where nothing but barren wasteland lies. The nearest form of civilization is northwest, where Appleloosa and Dodge Junction lie. Just east of the Badlands, across the South Celestial Ocean, the Dragon's Lair, home of the dragons, lie.

Almost nobody has made a dwelling here, except for a lone house made of stone, just on a small rocky alcove overlooking the main road that stretches across the land. It is home to a lone Earth stallion, who has been living alone in solitude for the past five years. The earth stallion left his home of Canterlot to become stronger, in body and mind, so that he would not fail to save the life of the next pony he would care about.

Silver just looked out at the barren landscape he has been in for five years, seeing the sun slowly make its way toward the horizon. He just kept a calm, and stoic, expression as he stared out.

"...The Summer Sun Celebration is in two days, yet I can't help but shake the feeling something bad is going to happen." Silver muttered to himself.

He has been thinking long and hard about this. He hasn't been anywhere, outside Appleloosa for supplies and making excursions to the Dragon Lands east in his early years of training to spar against the dragons to toughen him, but he has a strong feeling Equestria is in for a surprise in two days.

"...It's time to go home..." He said softly as he goes and packs up his saddlebags with supplies for the trip: food, water, maps, the like.

He grabs a tattered gray cloak he bought a few years back when the winds were strong to create a dust bowl. The fact its tattered and torn shows how much use it got. It was fastened by a cyan colored gemstone, something he's been researching for use. And lastly, leaning against his nightstand, was his Mythril Sword.



He obtained this blade during his visit to the Dragon Lands a couple years back. He knew that while dragons were rather seclusive and didn't want to be in the affairs of ponies or other races, they were rather good in the art of blacksmithing. Some dragons craft very fine pieces of armor and weapons that are of equal, if not slightly better, quality over weapons used by the Royal Guard in Canterlot.

The sword was made from a rare metal known as mythril, which is stronger and more durable than steel, yet it is still an easy weapon to handle, even for a pony. He always fancied himself as a swordspony, though using his mouth to strike attacks can be rather... Tiring, which is what the gemstone that acts as his fastener is for.

Silver is not just a hardened Earth pony, but he is also an avid reader and studied during his childhood as he was home-schooled by his mother, when she was off from her job as one of Canterlot's finest jewelers and was able to spend time with her son. Living in Canterlot, the only place of education was Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, which he wouldn't been able to enroll at due to being an earth pony. However, Silver is special in a way, as while he was born as an Earth pony, deep inside him lays unicorn magic, dormant, waiting to be used. But because he has no horn, he isn't able to tap into it and thus had to rely on his earth pony magic to get around. He has been trying to find a way to use a crystal or gemstone as a conduit, in order to tap into his unicorn magic, however even after all this time, he hasn't been making much head way.

The only way he could get more knowledge into this matter was to return to Canterlot, and seek help there. Besides, he knew he owed his mother a long overdue visit.

He checks his blade, seeing that is nice and polished. Rarely he had to use it, but considering where he was, it was better to have added protection from any creatures that would find him as pray. Once he learned how to tap into his unicorn magic, he'd have an easier time wielding the simple one-handed weapon. He proceeds to sheath it into its scabbard, which was red leather surrounded by gold with a small symbol that was his cutie mark in the center of it.

He trots to the door as he looks back at his small abode he took shelter in for these past few years, and knew in time he would return here, but not long term. As far as he was concerned now, this was more or less a safehouse, as his real home was, and always been, Canterlot. He smiled softly as he goes out the front door and closes it behind him, as his journey back to society began, as he made his way to Dodge Junction to catch the train to his first destination: Ponyville.






Canterlot
A Day Before the Summer Solstice






The young unicorn mare was trotting back to the ivory tower, a place located at Canterlot Castle where she has been residing since becoming Princess Celestia's student. The back of her mind was still on the storybook she read earlier, mostly the Elements of Harmony is what is been stewing in her mind.

As she continued down the road, she was snapped out of her thought when two familiar unicorn mares approached her,
One of which called out to her, surprising her.

"There you are Twilight!" The light goldish gray unicorn, known as Twinkleshine, yelled out, smiling brightly.

"Moon Dancer is having a little get-together in the west castle courtyard. You wanna come?" She asks, as both her and Lemon Hearts lean in awaiting for their friend's answer.

Twilight simply frowns.

"Oh, sorry, girls... I've got a lot of studying to catch up on." Twilight replied, giving a large, sheepish grin, before galloping off, leaving the two mares behind, watching her go.

Twinkleshine just sighs and frowns, before looking at Lemon Hearts, "Does that pony do anything except study? I think she's more interested in books than friends."

Lemon Hearts just gave an assuring smile, "Don't worry Twinkleshine. You know how Twilight was back in magic kindergarten... Well both her and Moon Dancer. I'm sure Moon will understand if she asks why Twilight didn't come..."

Twinkleshine thinks and shrugs, "Well, I suppose. But still, I don't get why she wants to study when the Summer Sun Celebration is coming up and we all get some time off from studies."

"It's okay. She'll come around, now let's go meet up with Minuette and head to the party.~" Lemon said in a sing-song voice.

Twinkleshine nods as they begin their way to find their other friend, Minuette, whom waved at Twilight just as she gallops past her, not paying attention, only focusing getting back to her tower.

"I know I've heard of the Elements of Harmony..." Twilight uttered to herself.

Eventually, she reaches the castle, and begins her way up the stairs of the ivory tower. Inside, a small purple dragon, was preparing to leave the tower, with a small present, along with a teddy bear. Just as he was about to reach the doors, they suddenly slam open, sending the small dragon flying back.

"Ow!" The baby dragon yelled, landing on the present he just had in his claws.

Twilight sees him there and then asks him to come up to find an old copy of a book known as Predictions and Prophecies, all the while protesting that they were on a break from studies and should head to Moon Dancer's party instead. Eventually, they did find the book Twilight as searching for, and began to search for information on the Elements of Harmony, before being directed to the topic on the Mare in the Moon.

"Mare in the Moon? Come on Twilight, that's just an old ponies' tale." Spike said with a confused expression.

Regardless, Twilight searched for the page on the Mare in the Moon, learning that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid her escape and return to bring about eternal night, much to her shock.

She then requests to Spike to take a letter to Princess Celestia, warning her about Nightmare Moon's return on the day after tomorrow, which was the day of the Summer Sun Celebration. Spike sends the letter, doubting Twilight that because she was busy preparing for the Celebration, she wouldn't reply right away.

Confident that Celestia trusts her 100%, Twilight simply waits for a response, which sure enough comes as Spike belches out green flames that turn into a scroll. Spike opens the scroll and began reading it.

"My dearest, most faithful student Twilight. You know that I value your diligence and that I trust you completely. " Spike read aloud, with Twilight smiling brightly as she nods in agreement.

Spike then read the other half, which simply made her gasp, "...but you simply must stop reading those dusty old books!"

Twilight couldn't believe her ears. Princess Celestia just told her to get her head out of her books? Why would she write that to her. Her dearest student?

"Oh come on Twilight, you know the Princess still trusts you. But, all you've been doing is nothing but studying and haven't really spent anytime with your friends..." Spike said, patting her hoof, trying to give a comforting smile.

"Oh but Spike, with the eventual return of Nightmare Moon on the horizon, we can't afford to lose anytime! If she was taking me seriously, she would've told me how we should prepare for her arrival! She will bring about eternal night, and my mentor tells me to just get my head out of the books!" Twilight said in an overacting tone.

Spike simply sighed, as he looked at the letter.

"Oh wait, there was more." He added as he continued.

"Please do not think of me ignoring your plight, my dearest student. I trust and believe what you claim, but for now, it is best to try to keep a positive mindset and not worry. Which is why I have a task for you. In about five minutes, a chariot will arrive in front of your tower and take you to where you and Spike need to go. You shall receive the instructions to your task shortly. For now, await for the chariot outside." He finished reading.

"A task? What could she want us to do that is more important than the return of the mare that nearly took over Equestria a century ago?" Twilight asked in a confused manner.

"Just breath, Twi. Let's just go outside, and wait for the chariot she is sending." Spike said as he began walking downstairs, heading outside.

Twilight just frowned, and wondered if the Princess was right. She sighs as she follows Spike outside.






Outside Canterlot






The chariot, being pulled by two Royal Guards, carry Twilight and Spike away from Canterlot. They just received the instructions from Celestia, as well as reminding Twilight that there is more to life than just studying, thus sending her and her assistant to oversee the preparations of the Summer Sun Celebration being held in a town located just south of Canterlot known as Ponyville. She also tells Twilight in the letter to not just oversee the preparations, but to try to make some friends.

Twilight, having Nightmare Moon's return still fresh in her mind, just grunted at the prospect of trying to make friends, seeing it as unnecessary when she needs to learn more about the Elements of Harmony and figure out how to prevent the Mare in the Moon's take over of Equestria.






Dodge Junction - South Equestria






At the same time as she and Spike arrive in Ponyville, twenty-five miles southeast the Friendship Express has just pulled out of Dodge Junction, with Silver Guardian sitting quietly by himself on board. It was already after 3:30 in the afternoon by the time he arrived in Dodge Junction, and he was exhausted. He was happy to finally sit and rest after the long trek from the Badlands, though learned it would be after dusk by the time he got to Ponyville.

He had his hood up, and his Mythril Sword resting beside him on his seat. He knew there wouldn't be any trouble on the ride so he just relaxed while the train made it's way to his destination. After tonight, however, his life, as well as Twilight Sparkle's life, will change forever.






Ponyville - Equestria






Twilight's time in Ponyville has been eventful, so much to her disdain. Ever since she arrived, she just wanted to check to see if the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration were all taken care of, but in the unicorn's mind: this town is pretty crazy.

First, the moment she and Spike arrived, the first pony they meet is a rather hyper pink Earth pony named Pinkie Pie. When Spike suggested that the ponies in town have interesting things to talk about, as a means to get her to talk to another pony and try to make friends, and upon the mare saying 'hello', the pink mare just leaped in the air, gasp loudly as if she just realized she left the oven on, and just darted off in a blur, leaving a rather disappointed Twilight and confused Spike behind.

She then visited Sweet Apple Acres, where she was to meet the pony in charge of the banquet preparations: an orange Earth mare named Applejack, who welcomed Twilight with open hooves. Or rather, shaking the poor mare's arm so much she was going to shake her arm off her socket. She introduces Twilight to the Apple Family, all here for the Celebration and to help with the food. They all offered Twilight samples of their delicious apple-related delights, and while they tasted amazing, Twilight only wanted to leave and move onto the other tasks so she could get to the library to study up on Nightmare Moon some more, however was forced to stay for brunch when Applejack's younger sister, Apple Bloom, gave her the puppy dog stare.

Next, after being full from so much pie, Twilight and Spike met a cyan colored pegasus mare named Rainbow Dash, who true to her name, had a rainbow colored mane and tail. She was in charge of clearing the clouds out of the sky around Ponyville, and after commenting how poor of a job Rainbow Dash did clearing them up, the fastest flyer in Equestria blew the unicorn's mind when she was able to clear all the clouds around town in ten seconds flat. Quite literally. Amused by her reaction, Rainbow Dash flew off to go practice more tricks so that one day, she could join the Wonderbolts, and hoped that she and Twilight would hang out more.

Next, they meet the one in charge of decorations at Town Hall. A gorgeous, white unicorn mare named Rarity, whom Spike immediately falls smitten for. Upon seeing Twilight's mane a mess after her encounter with Rainbow Dash, the fashionista wished to fix her mane up, as well as have her model some dresses at the Carousal Boutique, Rarity's clothing shop. She nearly freaks out when she learns Twilight is from Canterlot, and while Rarity was distracted, she and Spike, much to his disappointment, sneak out of there before she tried to color Twilight's mane.

Lastly, the two met the pony in charge of music. A butter colored pegasus mare named Fluttershy, who was try to have a group of different birds rehearse for the Celebration, before Twilight and Spike arrived. True to her name, she was shy and quiet when Twilight tried to talk to her, and before she and Spike could leave feeling that all was good here, the quiet mare immediately ran over, knocking Twilight out of the way to see Spike, never once thinking she'd meet a baby dragon, much to Spike's delight. He then begins telling the mare his life story, and before he can talk about what he did that day, Twilight tried to get out of it by saying Spike needed to get to bed since he was tired, which Fluttershy bought easily. With that, the two ran off, and much of daylight was gone because of Spike telling his life story.

By the time they were done and made it to the library, it was already dark out. Twilight finally wanting to get some time to herself to research more on Nightmare Moon without a lot of crazy ponies trying to bother her, but that all falls flat on her face, when the lights come on, and a large group of ponies surprise Twilight and Spike with a surprise party, with Pinkie Pie the one behind it, much to Twilight's annoyance.

Twilight simply went to her new room, wanting to be alone, while everyone in the library partied the night away, leaving Twilight frustrated and upset that all of her time was wasted and couldn't even begin her research into the Elements of Harmony Spike tells her that everyone has to be awake all night so they do not miss Princess Celestia raising the sun, and that she just needs to lighten up.

All the while this goes on, the Friendship Express finally makes its stop in Ponyville. Several ponies get off, eager to watch the sun rise for the Celebration. The last to get off was the stallion from the Badlands, Silver. He looks around, noticing how quaint Ponyville looks.

Silver just went along with the other ponies, as he looks up at the moon. He realized something was off, and not the fact that there was the image of a mare on it. He read about the myth of the Mare of the Moon when he was colt, and often passing it off as just a legend, like everyone else.

However, he noticed how four bright stars began to slowly move toward the moon. He raised a brow, as the image of the mare on the moon, disappeared.

"..." He just remained silent and blinks, before hasting his pace to the Town Hall. He was sure that wasn't supposed to happen.

Inside, everyone awaited for Celestia to appear, but upon the curtains opening, everyone were just in shock when she wasn't there.

"This can't be good..." Twilight said to herself, with worry in her face.

"Everypony, please remain calm! I am sure there is a reasonable explanation for this!" The Ponyville mayor, Mayor Mare, said, trying to get everyone in the hall to calm down.

Pinkie just grinned brightly, "Ooh, ooh, I love guessing games! Is she hiding?"

Rarity checked behind the curtain that was further behind where Celestia was suppose to be, but yelled in a panicked tone.

"She's gone!"

Everyone in the room gasped and were now worried. Pinkie on the other hand.

"Ooh, she's good..."

But then a flash startles everyone in the room, as a large, black alicorn, donning baby blue armor, with a flowing purple mane and tail that shimmered with stars, and cat-like eyes appeared in the balcony.

Now everyone was in a panic. Twilight's eyes widened, her with a look of fear.

Outside, Silver was peaking through a window, and witnessed the same thing. He couldn't believe he was seeing this. At that moment, both him and Twilight uttered the same phrase quietly.

"Oh no... It's Nightmare Moon..."

Nightmare Moon simply chuckled maliciously, grinning wickedly as she looks down at everyone, "Oh, my beloved subjects. It's been so long since I've seen your precious little sun-loving faces..."

Rainbow Dash immediately tried to fly at her, but Applejack grabbed Rainbow by the tail with her mouth.

"What did you do to our Princess?!" Rainbow demanded.

"Woah there, Nelly!" Applejack muffled.

Nightmare Moon sees these and just cackles, "Why, am I not royal enough for you? Don't you know who I am?" She frowned as she stomped her hoof down.

Pinkie just started spouting out random names, thinking this was a guessing game still.

"Ooh, ooh, more guessing games! Um, Hokey Smokes! How about... Queen Meanie! No! Black Snooty, Black Snooty--" Pinkie was cut off by Applejack, shoving her hoof with a cupcake on it, into the pink mare's mouth.

Nightmare Moon, on the other hand, was not amused. She looks at Rarity, who just stared at her in fear as her wispy mane blankets itself around the smaller mare, "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?"

"I did." Twilight spoken up, catching everyone's attention. Silver, looked as well upon hearing her voice.

"Wait a minute... Isn't that...?" Silver asked himself.

"And I know who you are. You're the Mare in the Moon – Nightmare Moon!" Twilight finished, leaving all the ponies inside gasping. What they thought was an old ponies' tale, was real.

Nightmare Moon lets Rarity go, and simply looks at Twilight, grinning.

"Well well well, somepony who remembers me. Then you also know why I'm here, hmm?." She replied.

"You're here to... to..." Twilight just gulped, unable to finish her sentence.

The dark colored alicorn simply chuckles, as she turns her attention to the crowd.

"Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!" Nightmare Moon cackles and laughs hard, as thunder around her claps loudly.

Twilight could only stare at her in fear, along with everyone else.

Silver, though, just looked at Nightmare Moon with glared at her.

He mutters to himself, "...Not if I have a say in it." He then backs away from the window, and away from the Town Hall. He needed to come up with a plan.

This was going to be a long night for everyone...
> Chapter 2 - Friendship is Magic, Part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------





Town Hall - Ponyville
Night Before the Summer Solstice






Nightmare Moon continues her evil laughter, after finally returning from her thousand year banishment. Nobody knows where Princess Celestia is, and are now fearful under the black alicorn's graces. Her mane seems to flow out into a spiraling vortex, all the while thunder and lightning erupt from the vortex.

Mayor Mare glared up at Nightmare Moon, as she waved her hoof up at her, signaling some Royal Guards that were brought there to ensure the safety of the ponies in town while the Celebration was underway.

"Seize her! Only she knows where the Princess is!" She ordered, while three pegasus Guards fly at Nightmare Moon.

Nightmare Moon glares at the Royal Guard charging at her.

"Stay back, you foals!" She screamed out, her eyes flashed white as a couple thunderbolts repelled the Royal Guards back.

She then surrounds herself in her mane, becoming a purple cloud of mist as she darts off the balcony, flying past several ponies and out the front doors. Rainbow Dash, escaping from Applejack's grasp, flies off after the mist just as quickly.

"Hey! Come back here!" Rainbow Dash yelled, panting. She watched as Nightmare Moon escaped into the distance.

She frowns.

"Nighttime... Forever?" She asked herself, as she glanced down to the side.

She then witnessed Twilight, carrying Spike on her back, galloping out of the Town Hall, back to the library. Rainbow just gave a look of suspicion at her.

"Where is she going?" Rainbow asked herself again, deciding to follow her. Since she knew who Nightmare Moon was, she has to know something else about what is going on.

All the while he was planning, Silver was caught off guard, when he saw that purple mist shoot past him, nearly toppling over.

"Woah!" He yelped out.

He watched the purple mist make a mad turn southwest.

"Hmm... She wants to bring eternal night like she did a century ago. I guess being stuck in the moon for that long, you don't let go of a grudge like that easily." Silver thought as he made a mad gallop after the purple wisp.

"I better tail her. She likely didn't notice me as she zoomed off like that." He thought, turning down the street he saw the cloud went.





Golden Oak Library - Ponyville





Spike was laying in his small bed, as he groaned in his sleep. He then stirs, and jolts up tiredly.

"Uh... We've got to stop Nightmare!..." Spike yelled, before drifting back to sleep.

Twilight, gave a sad smile, as she levitates a blanket over Spike.

"You've been up all night, Spike. You are a baby dragon after all..." She said softly before turning and leaving the bedroom.

She then got back into serious mode, as she ran around the library, trying to find more information on the Elements, leaving her frustrated.

"Elements, elements, elements... UGH!" She grunted.

"How can I stop Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony?" She asked aloud.

That was until she was caught off guard by Rainbow Dash, who just flew into the library through a window, and glares at the unicorn.

"And just what are the Elements of Harmony? And how did you know about Nightmare Moon? Are you a spy?!" Rainbow demanded.

"Simmer down there, Sally." Applejack said, coming into the library, alongside Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie.

"She ain't no spy... But she sure does know whats going on. Don't you, Twilight?" Applejack asked, giving her a concerned look.

Twilight sighed and nods.

"I read all about the prediction of Nightmare Moon. Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her, but I don't know what they are, where to find them; I don't even know what they do!" She yelled out in frustration.

"The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide." Pinkie said, as she looked at one bookshelf.

Twilight rushed over to her, shocked, and knocked her out of the way

"Where did you find that?!" Twilight asked.

"It was under 'E'!"~ Pinkie replied, in a sing-song voice, before hopping past her.

Twilight replied with a flat 'Oh' and then proceeds to pull the book out.

Without hesitation, Twilight opened the book and searched in it before stopping on a page she was looking for. The girls lean in behind Twilight as she read. Unaware of her presence, Nightmare Moon stopped against the window that looked inside the library, as she listened in on Twilight.

"There are six Elements of Harmony, but only five are known: Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty and Loyalty. The sixth is a complete mystery. It is said, the last known location of the five elements was in the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters. It is located in what is now--"

They girls just gasped as the read the last line.

"The Everfree Forest!"

With that, Nightmare Moon darts off into the night, toward the Everfree Forest, exacting her plan to prevent the six ponies from reaching the old castle.

The wisp didn't realize, that she was also being watched. Silver noticed the wisp hang by the window of the library before shooting off out of town toward the Everfree. He was about to go after it, but stopped as he saw Twilight and the girls all gallop out of the library and headed off in the same direction.

"Guess everypony is heading for the Everfree tonight... These six are likely going to need a silent guardian. Sure picked a fine day to come back to civilization." Silver thought to himself as he gallops after the group, tailing them from behind.

He would make himself known, but for some nagging feeling, he doesn't want to cause more issues. The fact Nightmare Moon was listening in on the girls, means she is likely going to do whatever to impede their progress, so he had to make sure all was well and they made it safely. He will make himself known, at the right moment.






The Everfree Forest - Outside Ponyville






The Mane 6 all just stopped as they approached the entrance into what was regarded as a dangerous, and not natural, place in Equestria. All of them had a look of worry and fear.

Up until Pinkie cheerily broke the silence.

"Whee! Let's go!~" Pinkie began to trot forward before she was stopped by Twilight.

"Not so fast." Twilight said in a soft tone, as the girls looked at her, with questioning looks.

"Look, I appreciate the offer, but I'd really rather do this on my own." She added with a solemn look.

"No can do, sugarcube. We sure ain't lettin' any friend of ours go into that creepy place alone. We're stickin' to you like caramel on a candy apple." Applejack said, grinning softly as she begins to enter the forest.

The others all give an agreed hmph, with Pinkie adding.

"Especially if there's candy apples in there." She stopped and looked at Twilight, who just gave questionable stare.

"What? Those things are good!" Pinkie added before trotting after the girls, leaving Twilight behind, who just sighed.

She then picked up the pace to catch up with them. Not so far behind, Silver managed to reach the entrance of the forest and look at it, ears drooping down.

"So this is the Everfree? Wonder what fun things are lurking about in there, aside from the obvious..." Silver muttered to himself as he proceeds into the forest. However the moment he set hoof in the forest, he stopped as he winced.

"Ugh, what the--?!" He yelled as he started seeing images flash in his mind, as well as voices.

He grasped his head, as he fell to the ground. He witnessed images of what looked like Celestia and a younger blue alicorn, a large black mass with a piercing eye, a strange tree made of crystal, and some sort of mysterious figure that stood on two hooves wearing all red, wielding a sword with what looked like his cutie mark in the center. They were happening so fast, he couldn't make most of it out and just kept repeating.

"Gah!" Silver grunted as he passes out on the ground.

"...Silver....Silver....Silver Guardian, wake up..." A mysterious voice called out in the darkness of Silver's mind.

Silver laid there, his eyes trying to open, but can't. His ears twitched though, hearing the voice.

Inside his mind, he stood alone in the dark abyss as he looks around.

"Silver Guardian... You must wake up." The voice, who sounded feminine, not unlike Celestia, said in a calm and motherly tone.

"W-who are you...? Where are you...?" Silver asked.

As he said that, a bright light flash and stood a tall figure, likely a tall unicorn, but he couldn't make out their features as they were made of light.

"...All in good time, my little pony... For now, you must hurry and wake up... You must reach the Bearers, they are nearing the Old Castle... Nightmare Moon awaits there for them..." The voice said.

Silver's eyes widen, he forgot about Twilight and the girls. How long has he been out for?

"I will use some of my magic... To transport you outside the Old Castle, deep in the Everfree... The images you saw when you set foot in the Everfree, those I can't explain now... I can't maintain and speak like this for long, so you must hurry and join the Bearers... Go now, bearer of the Mark of the Seventh..." The voice added, before slowly flickering out.

"W-wait a minute!" Silver yelled but the light disappeared, but then a bright flash blinded him as he covers his eyes.






Old Castle of the Royal Sisters - Everfree Forest






Silver's eyes flickered open, his vision blurry but begins to clear as he finds himself in a different place. He slowly gets up, and shakes his head. He looks around and turns to find himself outside the ruins of a castle.

"This must be the Castle... Twilight and the others!" He yelled to himself as he run toward the doors, but can't seem to get them to budge.

"Come on... Open...!" He gritted under his teeth.

That is when he heard the girls yelling out for Twilight.

"Twilight! Where are you?" Applejack shouted out.

"Girls! Look up there!" Rarity yelled as she pointed up at one section of the castle, where light was flashing.

"Come on girls!" Applejack told the girls as they all galloped into the castle to reach the section Twilight was taken too. Silver, saw stairs leading up to that section and made his way up to that section, beating the girls.

He looked in the window and saw Twilight, and Nightmare Moon, surrounded by five stone orbs with gemstones carved into them, orbiting around her with her mane. She just chuckles as lightning flashes in the room, and Twilight just looks on in concern. She then gets up, glaring at her and brush her hooves against the ground, as if she was going to charge at her.

Nightmare Moon just gave a deadpanned look, "You're kidding... You're kidding, right?"

Twilight didn't answer, as her horn begins emitting a charge and begins charging at Nightmare Moon, whom just glared and charges at her, wings spread open. Silver just watched, wondering if Twilight was insane or a genius, as the moment the two nearly butt heads, Twilight teleports off, with Nightmare Moon galloping past her spot and stops, looking around confused. She then heard a popping sound as Twilight reappeared at the spot where the Elements were resting. Her horn begins emitting a charge as she tries to get a spark in on them.

"Come on..." Twilight muttered, while Nightmare Moon just growled and suddenly became a whirlwind and charges back there, just as Twilight got the Elements sparking together, and get knocked back by the force.

Nightmare Moon reappears but sees the spark in the Elements, with a worried look.

"No... NO!" She screamed, with Twilight giving a victorious look.

However, that look became confusion as the spark stopped, and Nightmare Moon begins chuckling deeply.

"But... Where's the sixth Element?!" Twilight asked, as Nightmare Moon laughs more and then rears up, to slam back down on the ground, shattering the orbs, leaving Twilight with a look of horror.

Silver eyes widen. She just shattered the Elements of Harmony like nothing. His brows furrowed.

"You little foal! Thinking you could defeat me? Now you will never see your princess, or your sun! The night will last forever!" Nightmare Moon boasted as she laughed more, her mane beginning to grow larger, leaving a horrified and feared Twilight sit there.

"And now... To ensure you won't become an even bigger thorn on my side! I shall be rid of you, and your little friends! Nothing will get in my way of my goal!" Nightmare Moon sneered, as her horn begins charging up, leaving Twilight now fearing for her life.

"N-no...!" Twilight cried out.

Twilight closed her eyes tightly, waiting for the shot. However, she only heard the sound of a window shattering, and Nightmare Moon grunting as she was knocked to the side by surprise, her beam narrowly missed Twilight by a few inches. Twilight look up and saw a cloaked pony wielding a sword in their mouth, facing away from her.

"W-what?! Who are you?! You dare strike your ruler of the night and raise a blade at me, little colt?!" Nightmare Moon said getting up, visibly angered and surprised by this new pony's appearance.

Silver just stood there, glaring into Nightmare Moon, having no hint of fear.

"W-who are you?" Twilight asked, but the stallion didn't respond.

"Well then, I have to admit... You do have a spark of valor in you, little colt. However, you are foolish, little foal! Without the Elements of Harmony, nopony can stop me!! You have no hope!" Nightmare Moon cackled.

Silver takes his sword out his mouth so he can speak.

"How about we test theory then? You may have spent thousand years on the moon, and naturally you would likely beat me no problem. But I took time to hone my skills in the five years I lived in solitude, and well... I'm itching for a fight. So, I'm not going to let you hurt her..." He said calmly.

Nightmare just gave him a deadpanned stare, before laughing. "HA! You think you can protect this little pony from me?"

She then materializes a sword, with a hilt in the shape of blue wings and crossguard with a crescent moon.

"Let me see how skilled you are, little colt!" Nightmare lunged at Silver as he glares and was able to block the incoming hit quickly with his blade.

Twilight's ears perked up. Why did this pony sound familiar to her, and how was she not aware of him following her and the girls. She could only watch in awe as this mysterious pony was capable of keeping his ground against Nightmare Moon.

"Impressive... But can't you survive this?" Nightmare Moon question with a sickening smirk.

A runic symbol appeared before her, and began firing several spectral swords at Silver. Breathing deeply, taking his sword as he held it in his hooves and starts hopping around and begun swinging around and starts deflecting the spectral blades as they spark off his sword and dissipate. All that training with that one dragon, who was rather nimble, he met at the Dragon Lands really paid off.

Twilight and Nightmare Moon just looked in total shock. How was this colt capable of moving this swiftly and be able to deflect these blades that were cast by magic?

As soon as the spell stopped, Silver smirked as he throws his weapon like a spear, and starts galloping at full force at the alicorn. She sees the blade coming at her, and was able to deflect it away, causing it to spin back at Silver.

"Look out!" Twilight screamed.

Silver's eyes glinted as time began to slow down for him only hearing the sound of his own heart beating. The blade in front of him began to come at him as if it was in slow motion, timing it just right, he managed to catching the blade by the handle with his mouth. At that moment, time started to feel like it resumed normally, as Silver stops, turns around and with all his strength, bucked Nightmare Moon's armor, enough that not only did it knock wind out of her, but there was also an audible 'crack' that came from the armor itself.

This young Earth stallion, managed to crack and break a piece of Nightmare Moon's armor off from his bucking. Twilight just had her mouth gaping as she heard the sound.

"GAH!!!" Nightmare Moon gasped loudly as she gets sent back into a wall, before falling to her hooves, gasping to get air back.

Silver simply held his blade up at her.

"H-How...HOW CAN A LITTLE FOAL LIKE YOU... HAVE THIS MUCH STRENGTH?!" Nightmare Moon snarled in anger and confusion, glaring hatred at Silver.

He simply just stared at her, not responding to her question. She just glared, until she saw something about this pony. As if old memories crept up from the depths of her mind, when the realization hit her. She got a better look at his face.

"No... No... NO! It can't be... You're.... You're...!" She stuttered out.

In place of the pony, was a another figure: a figure that stood on two legs, had a spiky looking mane donning silver armor and was wielding a blade that glowed in light, with six gemstones embedded around a central, green triangular gemstone on the crossguard. The figure simply gave the exact same stare as this pony was giving her now.

"Let me ask you something, Nightmare Moon..." Silver suddenly asked.

"Do you really think something as powerful as the Elements of Harmony... Can destroyed that easily?" Silver simply looked back at Twilight.

As she stares at him hearing the question, it was then she began hearing the sounds of her friends yelling out for her from the stairwell. Her eyes widen at the realization as they sparked for a moment, understanding what Silver was talking about.

"...He's right. The Elements couldn't be destroyed just like that! Because the Elements of Harmony are right here!" Twilight declared, just as the girls walk into the room seeing Twilight, Silver and Nightmare Moon, who just gave a confused look.

They just see Nightmare Moon downed by some cloaked stallion pointing a sword at her, while the alicorn just winces as she gets up, Silver keeping his blade pointed on her.

Twilight looks to each pony behind her, with a soft smile.

"Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of... honesty!"

"Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of... kindness!"

"Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of... laughter!"

"Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift represents the spirit of... generosity!"

"And Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends for her own heart's desire represents the spirit of... loyalty!"

The broken shards of the Elements began to glow, and float over to their respective bearer and orbit around them, as Twilight continued.

"The spirits of these five ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us!"

Nightmare Moon glared at them, trying to ignore the pain she was in from the buck she received.

"Y-you still don't have the sixth Element! The spark didn't work!" She yelled, stomping her hoof down.

Twilight still remained confident.

"But it did! A different kind of spark!" Twilight said as she turns to look at her friends, tears welling in her eyes.

"I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all... Are my friends!" Twilight declared, as a bright light glowed above them all, causing Nightmare Moon to shield her eyes with her wing.

The light reveals to be another orb, this time with a starburst shaped carved into it and begins to float down above Twilight's head.

"You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the... The spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth element: the element of... magic!"

The six ponies began to float up into the air, as the shards surrounding the five ponies combined and become a necklace with a gemstone of each of their cutie marks: Fluttershy a pink butterfly, Rainbow Dash a red thunderbolt, Pinkie a cyan colored balloon, Rarity a purple diamond, and Applejack an orange apple.

The Element of Magic then transforms into a crown that rests on Twilight's head, which has a gemstone of a pink starburst. She floats back with her friends as a powerful rainbow spirals out and makes its way to Nightmare Moon, who looks on in horror. Silver takes that as his cue, to leap off to the side, smiling.

"Nooo! NOOO!!!" She screamed as she becomes surrounded in a rainbow colored tornado.

Twilight opens her eyes which flashed and then overall the room flashes white. Silver shields his eyes, before all went silent.

Upon looking, he saw the six ponies on the ground, and Nightmare Moon, or rather a smaller blue alicorn laying unconscious with pieces of armor scattered around. Silver noted this was the same younger, looking blue alicorn with Celestia from the visions he had earlier.

The girls begin to stir awake, as they check to see if all was alright.

"Ugh... My head." Rainbow Dash muttered as she got up.

"Everypony okay?" Applejack ask, looking at the girls, tiredly.

"Oh, thank goodness!" Rarity cheerfully yelled out, as the girls look at her, and notice her tail that was shorten before, was now back to its original size. She waves it around giddiely.

"Oh Rarity... It's so lovely." Fluttershy said in a hush, soft tone and smiled.

"Oh I know! I shall never part with it again!" Rarity replied, as she nuzzled her tail.

Fluttershy shook her head, "No. I mean your necklace. It looks just like your cutie mark."

Rarity looked at her Element of Generosity and her cutie mark, and grinned brightly before looking at Fluttershy, "Ooh. So does yours!"

She looks at her Element of Kindness and smiled cutely, as the girls looked at their Elements, all excited and finding them awesome. Twilight looks up at her crown, which housed the Element of Magic, and smiled brightly.

"Gee, Twilight! I thought you were just spoutin' a lot of hooey, but I reckon we really do represent the elements of friendship." Applejack said, as the girls began to gather along Twilight.

"Indeed you do." A motherly voice echoed through the room.

As the group, looked out the window and witnessed the sun rising after the long night, and a bright glow getting closer to where they were and flashed as it gently touches down, and reveals a large white alicorn, with a multicolored mane waving, sparkling gently, and her wings spread open. She gave a bright grin.

The ponies all bowed down in her presence as Twilight, excited, goes up to her.

"Princess Celestia!"

"Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student. I knew you could do it." Celestia said in a soft tone, lowering her head as she lovingly nuzzles the smaller unicorn.

Twilight then looks at Celestia.

"But... You told me it was all an old pony tale."

Celestia simply chuckles.

"I told you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more. I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return and I knew it was you who had the magic inside to defeat her, but you could not unleash it until you let true friendship into your heart." She explained.

The ponies in the back slowly stood up, as Twilight smiled softly and looked to her new friends. Celestia then looks over to where the smaller blue alicorn was at, as well as Silver and gave a soft frown, as she approached them, mostly focused on the blue alicorn.

"Now if only another will as well. Princess Luna!"

Luna eyes flickered open, and then gasps as she heard her name called by the other alicorn, who was slowly approaching her, wings spread.

"It has been a thousand years since I have seen you like this. Time to put our differences behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister." She said as she lays down before her, in a soft motherly tone, with Luna closing her eyes, unable to look at Celestia.

The ponies just gasped to themselves, with Twilight and Rainbow Dash asking at the same time.

"Sister?"

Celestia stood back up, looking down at the smaller Luna.

"Will you accept my friendship?" Celestia asked.

The other ponies in the room stayed silent, and leaned up closely, awaiting for Luna's answer, though Pinkie ends up fall forward.

"Woah!" She oofed out.

Luna closed her eyes, the tears welling up, and jolted up and brushed her head against her older sister, who looks at her in surprise.

"I'm so sorry! I missed you so much, big sister!" Luna cried out, smiling sadly as she sobbed, nuzzling her.

Celestia, feeling as much emotion now as Luna, lowers her head and nuzzles Luna's head lovingly, tears streaming down her face.

"I've missed you, too."

Twilight and the girls, so touched, had tears streaming down their cheeks. Silver simply nods, smiling softly as he gently sheathed his sword.

"Guess the trip here was worth it after all..." He thought.

One question comes to his mind however.

"Where do I fit in all of this...? And that voice from earlier... What did she mean by--"

"Um, excuse me?" Silver was snapped back to reality, when he looks at Twilight, standing in-front of him. The hood kept his face shrouded, but his muzzle is seen.

"Yeah?" Silver replied.

"The Princess wants to speak to you." She simply said, but then smiled softly.

"Also... Thanks for saving me when Nightmare Moon was going to attack me, and stall enough for my friends to arrive. I just... Can't believe that you were able to hold your own against her. Just who are you anyway...?" She asked.

Silver just grinned and nods.

"Don't mention it. I only did what I had to do... And, for your question: somepony you used to know." Silver said in a hushed tone, as he goes past her and stands before both Princesses.

He kneels down, bowing before the diarchary.

Celestia looks at him, and then notices his ring around his hoof. She then smiled softly.

"You have my sincerest gratitude for protecting my faithful student from harm, my little pony. Your actions will not be forgotten, as you also helped in returning my dear sister to us... Thank you kindly." Celestia said bowing her head down.

Silver simply nods, not responding.

"Now if you would be so kind: Could I please see your face?" Celestia asked.

It got tense in the room, as everypony just stood there and waited. They were all curious as to who this pony that just came from nowhere was and literally fought Nightmare Moon and protected Twilight.

A few moments go by, before he finally gets up and places one hoof over his hood and pulls it back, letting it down.

Luna simply looked at him further, and her eyes widened as if she seen a ghost. Celestia, on the other hand, just continued smiling down on the pony.

"...It has been too long since I last seen you... Silver Guardian." Celestia responded.

"Even after five years, you still have that innocence on your face. It pained me when I learned your mother passed away, while you were still a young colt, and just disappeared without warning. Golden Veil, she was a kind unicorn, and after what you've done today, she would be proud..." Celestia said.

He looks to the girls.

"I was only doing what I felt was right. I failed to save my mom when she succumbed to that illness... I tried everything to find a way to save her, but there was nothing I could do. I had to leave home, I needed to become a stronger pony so that one day I wouldn't lost another pony I cared about." He looked to Twilight, who slowly began remembering this pony.

Twilight slowly approached him and looked at him deeply.

"...Silver?" Twilight asked.

He simply smiled, "...Hey Twi. It's been awhile."

Twilight, after everything she has done today: saving Equestria from the threat of eternal night, gaining five new friends, bringing back Princess Luna thanks to the Elements, and now meeting her old friend when she was filly. She didn't know what happened, but she suddenly hugged him tightly. Silver, naturally, expected this and hugged back.

Pinkie suddenly sobbed, as tears literally, jets out of her eyes, before stopping.

"Hey! You know what this calls for?!"

And just like that, they were all back in Ponyville.

"A PARTY!!" She screamed in joy.

As all of the Ponyville residents head to the through the town to see Princess Celestia, and the return of Princess Luna, who arrive in Ponyville on a large carriage pulled by four Royal Guards, and stopped before the large crowd of happy and excited ponies who cheered.

Spike immediately ran though the crowd, and jumps up and hugs Twilight tightly, as the unicorn returns it with a bright grin.

The Princesses approached Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy, whom all bowed down to them, while Celestia nods her head down, along with the rest of the ponies in Ponyville.

Two pegasi fillies flew over to Princess Luna, and placed a wreath of flowers around her. She looks down with confusion, but looks up at her older sister, and smiled softly. Luna then grinned gently.

While this was all going on, Twilight just looked on and suddenly, felt sadness hit her.

"Why so glum, my faithful student? Are you not happy that your quest is complete and you can return to your studies in Canterlot?" Celestia asks, as she approaches her, alongside her friends.

"That's just it. Just when I learned how wonderful it is to have friends, I have to leave them." She said, frowning deeply. The others also looked at her and frowned too.

Celestia then grinned, and looks to Spike.

"Spike, take a note, please." She asked, as the young dragon compiled and had a scroll and quill handy.

"I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorn Twilight Sparkle shall take on a new mission for Equestria. She must continue to study the magic of friendship. She must report to me her findings from her new home in Ponyville."

Twilight grinned brightly, as everyone around her cheered, as her new friends sidle up to her. She looks to her mentor.

"Oh thank you, Princess Celestia! I'll study harder than ever before." Twilight said with glee, as her friends cheered again.

Pinkie immediately cuts-in.

"Isn't this exciting? Are you excited cause I'm excited I've never been so excited, well, except for the time that I went 'GASSSSP!' but I mean really-" Pinkie droned on, as her friends laughed.

Behind it all, Silver watched the scene, grinning softly as he looked up toward Canterlot.

"So my dear Silver Guardian. What do you plan to do now?" Celestia asked as she noticed him away from the group.

"Well, I only arrived in Ponyville after having a hunch something was about to happen here, and considering everything that has happened, I don't know. I been away from my home for five years, and well I guess there is going to be more to my journey... But for now, I suppose I will return to Canterlot. I was planning on going there after I was done here. I... Owe mom a visit that is long overdue..." He explained.

Celestia listened and nods.

"I'm sure she would love that... If you wish, I could arrange a chariot to take you there when you are ready."

Silver just smiled and nods.

"Thank you... Princess." He bows his head down.

"It is my pleasure, my little pony. But for now, why not spend a little time with your old friend and make some new ones? I'm sure you have a lot to talk about." She chuckles.

He looks over to Twilight, talking to her friends and some other ponies.

"Heh, yeah I do."

He looks over to Princess Luna, as she waves to some of the ponies, that surround her. He can tell she still feels uneasy.

"Starting with this one..." He said to himself, as he goes over to Princess Luna.

"Excuse me, Princess Luna?" Silver asked.

Luna turns around, looking down at Silver.

"Y-yes, my little pony...?" Luna answered with a bit of uneasiness in her voice.

He rubs the back of his neck as he thought of what to say, but he then looks at her with a warm grin, and apologetic eyes.

"I just wanted to say... I'm sorry for being rough on you when I... Well bucked you in the chest like that. I know you weren't yourself given the situation, but I only did it to keep Twilight safe. If I didn't step in, I'm not sure any of this would be happening now." Silver said.

Luna blinks, giving a worried look.

"O-oh, well, you are forgiven, dear pony. As you said, I was not myself, as Nightmare Moon had control, but I was aware of what happened... I don't know how I feel if I saw the one that helped save me from what felt like never-ending torment... Being decimated by Nightmare Moon..." Luna winced at the thought.

Silver goes and places a hoof on her shoulder, causing her to look at him with sadness.

"Thanks Princess... And I also wanted to ask because I know you are going to take a lot of time to readjust to being in society again after so long, but maybe we could be friends...? I understand if you don't want to, but just know you aren't alone anymore. Everypony here and beyond will be happy to know that their long-lost Princess of the Night has come back, and I assure you... They will enjoy the nights you will bring them." Silver explained, giving a gentle grin.

Luna just looked surprised after asking if he wanted to be friends with her, when she hasn't been around another pony in 1000 years. Everything he said to her, regardless, made her feel more appreciated than what she had a century ago. She simply nods.

"Y-yes, I would like to be friends with you, my little pony..." She said shakily, like from emotion.

Silver smiled brightly, his face beaming with innocence. Celestia was right: this pony was like a young colt of pure and innocence. And yet, when she was Nightmare Moon and saw his face the first time she felt that familiar presence with him. This pony possessed an untapped power inside, waiting to awaken.

"One last thing." Silver spoke up, causing Luna to tilt her head.

"...Welcome home, Princess."






???






Inside a large hall, hidden in the Everfree Forest, rests a very peculiar looking weapon: a sword with a golden hilt and pommel, with seven gemstones embedded in them, six surrounding a triangular gemstone in the center.

The blade looks as if it hasn't been used in centuries, considering some of the wear and tear and rust on it. However, the sword began glowing a faint blue aura, and light from the stained glass window above shines through.

The magic that was lost in the blade, was returning...
> Interlude - On that Day, 5 Years Ago
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The day was just about spent, as Princess Celestia and Princess Luna needed to return to Canterlot so that she can soon bring the sundown in place for the moon. She ordered a couple of Royal Guards with a chariot to remain in Ponyville for when Silver was ready to depart to Canterlot. 

As the two sisters started for the journey home, Luna looks to Celestia.

"Big sister... It-it's about dear Silver." Luna stammered out.

"And what about him, Lulu?" Celestia asked, tilting her head.

Luna held back a small giggle, being called her nickname after so long. But she looked to Celestia with a somewhat serious look.

"When you look at dear Silver... Does the stallion remind of you... Somepony we met before?" Luna asked.

"Hmm... Well, I known him since he was just a colt and his mother often came to the castle when it came around to my royal regalia, but other than that I'm not sure." Celestia replied.

"I see... It's just... When we were the Nightmare and... He had us cornered. We saw his face and we... We saw him." Luna said meekly.

"Him...?" Celestia raised a brow.

"Tia... I saw him... Our old... friend from beyond the stars. Silver possesses a similar spirit to him..." Luna replied.

Celestia took a moment to process that, before it dawned on her. Her eyes widened.

"You don't mean... Silver is the...?" Celestia stammered now.

"We do sister... Silver Guardian, we believe he possesses the Mark of the Seventh." Luna replied straightforward.





Golden Oaks Library - Ponyville





Meanwhile, most of the residents of Ponyville were back at the library as Pinkie wanted to throw Silver a 'Welcome to Ponyville Party', as well as a 'Congratulations on Being Reunited with Twilight Party'.

A lot of ponies were just mingling, celebrating the rest of the Summer Sun Celebration and the welcome party for Silver. Silver was at a table with Twilight, Spike, and the girls, enjoying the party and finally getting to sit down to meet them proper, considering that with all that went on early this morning with Nightmare Moon, he never got a chance to actually converse with Twilight's new friends.

"Well, I suppose introductions are in order." Silver said, as he then sipped a drink through a straw, and then looked at them.

"I am Silver Guardian, I am originally from Canterlot. And was one of Twilight's friends from back then." He said, bowing his head down.

"Well howdy there Silver. Name's Applejack!" Applejack greeted as she tipped her Stetson down slightly.

"I'm Rainbow Dash! Fastest flyer in Equestria, and soon-to-be Wonderbolt!" Rainbow boasted, the girls rolling their eyes chuckling.

"The name's Rarity, darling, and my, my, MY for such a rather handsome looking stallion, you wear such a raggedy old cloak!" Rarity placed her hoof up to her chin.

"You must come by my Boutique so I can at least fix it up for you. If it wasn't so tattered, it does suit you well Silver darling." She added, smiling softly.

Silver chuckles at this.

"Heh, thanks Rarity."

Pinkie suddenly appeared in front of Silver's face, causing him to flinch back.

"HIYA! I'm Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! It is so AWESOME to meet two new ponies in a day and a half, that I didn't have to do much but fix up the decorations from Twilight's Welcome to Ponyville Party! Do you like how it turned out?!" Pinkie screamed, as she got up to his face, causing Silver to chuckle nervously.

"Y-yeah Pinkie, I love the party, but could you maybe... Move back a bit. You are kind of up in my personal zone." He asked.

"YAY! I'm so happy you love it! I know we will be GREEEAAAATTT friends!~" Pinkie hugged him tightly, causing him to nearly choke.

"GAH PINKIE...AIR...NEED TO BREATH....!" Silver flailed, while the girls just giggled. 

"Oh Pinkie, give him some space. He really appreciates you throwing this party for him." Twilight said, giving a softly smile, but also feeling bad that her new friend nearly choked her old friend.

"Okie dokie lokie!" Pinkie smiled as she let go and hopped off to get more cake.

After gasping for air and making sure his limbs were in place, he breathes in, and calms back down.

"Now then... Who was next?" Silver asked, acting as nothing happened.

"U-um... Hello Silver. I-I'm... Fluttershy." Fluttershy said timidly, as she looked away. She knew he was a nice pony, and a cute one, causing her to blush lightly.

"Well it is nice to meet you girls. I'm glad Twilight found some awesome friends like you five." Silver said with a grin, as he bites into a cupcake.

He looks toward Spike, before gulping down his food.

"Oh yeah, you're Twilight's assistant right?" He asked.

Spike grinned and nodded.

"Yep! Name's Spike, glad to meet ya, Silver!" Spike stretched his small claw up to him and Silver shook it with his hoof.

"Hey Twilight, how come you never told me about Silver? I mean you two known each other even before you hatched me from my egg, but never talked about him." Spike asked as Twilight just looks at him and Silver nervously.

"Heh heh... Well it's just after I got accepted in Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, and becoming her personal protege, I got so involved in my studies that... I may have forgotten about you..." Twilight chuckles nervously at Silver.

Silver just rolls his eyes and laughs.

"Oh Bookie... You and your studying. I swear, the moment you give her something with mathematics or an adventure novel, she dives into her own little world where everything outside is just voices... Voices in the distance." Silver emphasis, by getting up, placing his hooves to his mouth as if he was trying to yell out to somepony in the distance.

They start laughing, as Twilight just blushed madly, and gave a pouty look, because of the accusation and the fact he called her by her nickname he used to call her when she was a filly.

"T-that's not true Silver Guardian, and you know it...!" She said with a huff.

"Actually Twilight..." Spike said between giggles.

"It kind of is...!" He finishes before laughing again.

She glares at Twilight, before she just sighs and covers her head. Silver laughs and just pats her back.

"Relax Bookie, I was just joking with you. I'm glad things turned out good for you. Really."

Twilight looks up at him, and then smiled softly, with a hint of smug.

"Heh, thanks... Sterling." Twilight said, sticking her tongue out.

"..." He cringed as he heard that nickname. 

Bookie, was much better than that name he was given.

He breathed deeply.

"So, who wants to ask me some questions, moving off that topic?" He said giving a tense stare.

The girls just look at each other, before Rarity raised her hoof.

"Why not tell us a bit of your foalhood, darling? Like when you met Twilight." The girls all nodded in agreement.

"Yeah! And where you got that awesome looking sword from." Rainbow Dash added, as she eyed the Mythril Sword that was in its scabbard.

"Well then, gather around dear friends. I have a relatively mid to long tale to tell."

The group leans in as they listened for Silver to talk about his past.

"I was born in Canterlot, with a unicorn for a mother, and my father... Well I never met him."

"Huh, how come?" Applejack asked.

"Well that's the thing. When I asked mom about my dad, she always looked at me with a sad smile, and just say he was a good stallion and he was somewhere out there. Considering he wasn't around when I was born, its safe to say he left my mom when I was still in the womb..." Silver replied, with a frown.

"Oh dear... That is terrible. No little colt should grow up with knowing their father..." Fluttershy said quietly.

"He could be out there somewhere still. All I know is that he was an Earth pony. When I was born, doctors figured I'd be born a unicorn but for some reason I was an Earth pony. Mom said I got her eyes and mane color, while I got my dad's coat and handsome look, heh." He rubbed the back of his neck.

"Princess Celestia mentioned your mother's name was Golden Veil. That wouldn't happen to be one of Canterlot's finest jewelry makers in Equestria, right?" Rarity asked..

Silver nods.

"Well I wouldn't say she was the finest in all of Equestria, but she was one of the most well known jewelers in Canterlot. So much so, Princess Celestia often would request her services like polishing of her regalia, or have special pieces made for special events."

"So... When did y'all meet Twilight?" Applejack asked.

Twilight answered this one.

"Well me and Silver actually shared the same foalsitter when we were younger. She would often bring Silver with her to my house and that is when we met." Twilight looks at Silver.

"You were a pretty cute colt..." She said giving a soft smile.

Silver just grinned sheepishly, blushing lightly rubbing the back of his neck.

"Heh... Well you were a pretty adorable filly. And I sometimes wonder if you still act like one." He smirked, causing Twilight to blush and glare at him.

"I act like a mature mare!" Twilight defended.

"Twilight, when you discovered an old book on the ancient cultures of Neighpon, you hopped around the room as if you ate a bag of sugar." Spike said, giving her a deadpan look.

They laughed. Silver just gave the smuggest grin as if to say, 'Mature mare, huh?'

"Spike!" Twilight groaned as she glared at the baby dragon.

"Either way, I often enjoyed reading with Twilight. Believe it or not, one of the reasons I came back to Equestria was for research." Silver explained.

Rainbow Dash laughed.

"I'm sorry. You. A pony who literally tackled Nightmare Moon and stared her down with a sword in your mouth without fear, are an egghead?" Rainbow just laughed harder.

"Hey, nothing wrong being a nerd. Bookie is an even bigger nerd than me, and she turned out fine." Silver he said as he sipped his drink, ducking his head as a cupcake flies toward his head and missed, smirking, as a flustered Twilight just kept giving him the stink-eye.

"Um... Silver? You mentioned back in the Old Castle that you left home because your mother... Passed away... What happened?" Fluttershy asked, hoping she doesn't cause him to get upset for asking a rather sad question.

Silver froze, as he gently placed his cup down. The sudden change from being a snark to being a look of solemn, was rather jarring for the group. Twilight frowns, and looks at him with a concerned look.

"Silver? Are you alright...?" Twilight asked.

"I-I'm sorry...! I didn't mean to open up an old wound... Y-you don't have to talk about it if you don't want to..." Fluttershy stammered, feeling guilty for making Silver sudden mood change.

He shook his head. He was calm and collective, but they can see pain in his eyes.

"No, it is alright Fluttershy... I know she told me not to grieve for her, but there are times I look back... On that day, five years ago." Silver said quietly, looking out the window.






Canterlot
Five Years Ago






"W-What do you mean you don't know what is wrong with her...?" Silver, a young adolescent colt, asked with heavy worry in his eyes.

He was talking to a doctor, outside of the examination room where his mother, Golden Veil, was resting. 

"I am sorry... But this illness your mother contracted is something that appears 0.5% in most ponies. Because of rareness, doctors never thought to study it. Your mother just happened to be in that percentage. We will do what we can, but a cure for this disease is nonexistent... She will succumb to it eventually, we can only prevent it, but it will eventually take her..." The doctor pony replied, with a calm tone.

Silver couldn't believe his ears. A mysterious illness that is so rare, nopony thought of researching it to prevent it from appearing.

"...This can't be happening..." Silver quivered. 

"I know it is difficult, but for now, you should try to hold onto hope. I'm sure your mother wouldn't want you to feel hopeless..." The doctor placed his hoof on his shoulder.

"Go in there and just be there for her." He added, as Silver looks at him.

"...P-please, just... Do anything... I-I don't want to be alone..." Silver muttered.

The doctor just closed his eyes, frowning softly, feeling guilty to bring this colt the bad news. He then trots past him, leaving Silver alone.

"At first, she was experiencing headaches. She would take some aspirin to get rid of it, and wouldn't think nothing of it.
She just continued on with her day, at work, with me... But the headaches became more frequent and she would often black out and wake up sometime later, not recalling what happened.  A month or so later, her health began getting worse she couldn't move as much, she wasn't able to eat as much." Silver explained.

"...I was scared. I tried to be a strong pony, but I was afraid of losing my mother... The only family I had and known all my life. I wanted to save her, and we could continue living a normal life... But fate wouldn't have it any other way." He added.

Young Silver Guardian, sat by Golden's bedside. It was the final hours of her life, being stuck like this for two months, and she knew it was time. She looked at her colt, with such tired eyes, and smiled softly. Silver, holding onto her hoof, tears streaming down his face.

"M-Mom... Please don't leave me. You can't leave yet...!" He yelled in sadness.

"I know..." Golden said quietly, still grinning softly. She held Silver's and rubbed his mane.

"...I know I won't be able to see you grow up into a final stallion... I don't know why it had to come down to this... But you must stay strong, my little colt." She said, a tear going down her cheek.

Silver didn't want to let go of her. Why in Celestia's name did this have to happen to him?

"W-what am I gonna do, Mom...? I-I don't want to be alone... Not without you..." Silver said, looking at her, eyes puffy and red as tears continued flowing down.

"...It will be alright sweetie... You are a big pony now, and you must be strong... I don't want to leave you too, but if I have to leave this world, then... I have to accept it..." Golden closed her eyes.

"Just know... You are not alone. There are those who do care about you... Like your father..."

Silver sniffled.

"...But, where is dad...? Why did he leave us when I wasn't here yet...? If he did care, h-he would be here with me..." Silver stuttered, wiping his eyes.

Golden shook her head.

"Your father... He was always flighty... But just know, he didn't want to leave me... Leave us. He had a calling that he needed to answer too, and said that he would always love us, and most likely, he still does..." She explained.

"He may not have been there when you were born, Silver... But he loves you just as much and will always love you. You are the apple in his eye, and... You are just as handsome as he was." She chuckles weakly, as she rubs his cheek, as he holds her hoof and nuzzles into it.

"...Silver, before I go... This is something I want you to take and keep with you..." She goes and removes her wedding ring band around her hoof, and places it around his hoof.

"Just know no matter where you go in the world, no matter how you feel, no what, I will be with you in spirit... I want you to not grieve for me... I know it will be painful, but... Just do this for mommy... Please." She muttered, slowly feeling the cold embrace.

"...A-and should there be a time... You ever meet you father... Do not hate him... Love him just the same as he would for us... Tell him that... He'll see me again... In the next life.... Can you do that for me.... Sweetie?" She asked weakly, as her breathing became shallow.

This was it. Silver knew there was nothing he could do for her now. She listened to her words, and nods.

"Y-yes mom... I will... I-I will make you proud..." He whimpered, as he hugs her one last time.

Golden smiled, as she held her gently, kisses his head and slowly rubbed his head, for the last time.

"I love you... My dear little Silver Guardian..."

"I-I love you too, mother... G-Goodbye..." Silver sniffled out.

She smiled, as she closed her eyes, finally letting it go. The ECG that was beeping, went flat-line, as Golden's hoofs, slowly slide off Silver, who just sobbed into her.

The doctor and nurse came in, seeing the scene, and couldn't help but feel sorry for the colt. Regardless, he stayed calm.

"Golden Veil... Time of death: 3:30 PM, April 2nd, 995 CE." He wrote down.

They go over, the nurse patting Silver's back and have him step away from the bed, as he weeps and the doctor goes and drapes the blanket over the body and a couple orderlies come in and pull the bed out.

"She wanted me to remain strong. That was her final wish, but all things considered... I was still young. The thought of losing my mother was too much for me to bear, so I ran out of there, surprising most of the staff. I ran outside of the hospital and down the street, not caring who I ran into or where I was going." Silver explained further. 

"Eventually, Diamond Dust found me in the park crying after hearing the news and decided to take me in for the time being, not wanting me to be alone... She was just as devastated that mom was gone and knew life wouldn't be the same."

"The following day, my mother was buried, up on a grassy knoll overlooking Canterlot, under this large oak tree. Me and her often went here to stargaze when she was off from work. We loved the spot, and felt that it would be proper she rest there... After that, I knew I couldn't stay in Canterlot. I was an orphan, my mom was gone, my dad was somewhere in the world. I needed to become stronger... I didn't want to lose anypony I cared about... I failed to save my mom from her illness, but I didn't want to make the same mistake again, so I ran away. I took what inheritance I was left with, and just left Canterlot... I told Diamond and she was very adamant on me not to leave, considering how young I was, but I told that I had to do it. There was nothing for me there now, and that I wanted to get stronger and make mom proud. She did eventually relent and let me go, promising her that I will be careful out there in the world."

"I couldn't grieve for mom anymore, so I promised myself and to her, I'd be strong. And it was that moment, when I realized what my resolve was, my cutie mark appeared."

The young Silver just looked at his flank, and noticed the new mark that appeared there, but didn't know what it meant.

It was simply a green Delta triangle.






Present Day






All the while Silver told them his story, the girls were all weepy eyed, including Rainbow Dash who tried to hide the fact. He looked down at his cutie mark.

"Even to this day, I still have no idea what it represents, but I can tell you when I saw it, it just bolstered my resolve to become a guardian."

"Oh Silver... I had no idea. I just got enrolled in Celestia's School around that time, and I was too focused in studying for my entrance exam, that I never knew that Golden died. Wasn't until my mom mentioning it, and how you just ran away after the funeral..." Twilight said, with immense concern.

"Well I was just so disheartened about all that happened, I just... Wanted to get away from Canterlot, and try to start my own life. And I did it by going to the one place in Equestria that I knew could toughen me up: the Badlands." Silver said, as the group stared at him wide eyed.

"You ran away to the Badlands?! And you lived there all this time?!" Twilight yelled in disbelief.

"That place is nothing but a wasteland. Almost no life lives down there, and the nearest places of society was Dodge Junction and Appleloosa, which I often traveled to for supplies." He explained.

"You been to Appleloosa? You meet an yellow Earth pony with a brown Stenson hat, brown vest, and had an apple for a cutie mark?" Applejack asked.

"You mean Braeburn? Yeah, he's a good pony, if not a little excitable, especially when I first arrived in Appleloosa. I often helped him out at the apple orchard to earn a few bits." Silver replied.

"Heh, that be mah cousin a'right. He can be a handful at times, but he's an Apple to the core. I guess you have a knack fer bucking apple trees, if Cousin Braeburn hired you, huh?" Applejack chuckled.

Silver chuckles back.

"Well when you are training your hooves by bucking boulders in the morning as part of your routine exercise, you would be able to buck a couple dozen apple trees down." Silver retorted.

It was then Silver looked at the clock.

"Wow, time sure flew, it is nearing 5PM. I'm afraid I better get going to Canterlot. I have things I need to get done, as well as pay my respects." Silver got up, the girls all frowned.

"Aww you have to go now??" Pinkie whined.

"Sorry Pinkie. I really loved the party you threw for me though, but I really need to get going. I'll be back in a couple days." Silver assured her.

Pinkie grinned brightly, "Okie doki loki then!~ Can't wait for you to come back!"

"You sure you have to go now? Surely you could stay a bit longer, Silver." Twilight said, with a sad look.

"Like I said, I'll be back in a couple days. I've been away from home for five years, I want to see what all changed while I was gone. Don't worry, Twi, we'll catch up more on the past later. I know you have a lot to tell me, as do I." Silver placed a hoof on her shoulder, smiling gently.

"For now, just have a good time with you friends, okay?"

Twilight gave a sad smile.

"Just don't be gone for long."

"I won't." Silver chuckles as he gives her a hug, which she returns.

"Nice meeting you all. I'm sure we'll hang out more, and become better friends then." Silver got up from his seat as he starts his way to the door, the girls and Spike following him outside as he heads for the two Guards awaiting by the chariot.

"Alright. We can depart now." Silver said, as the two Guard ponies nodded and he gets on the chariot, and looks to the group, waving to them.

"See you all later!" He yelled as they began to move forward and soon into the air, as the group all waved back, Pinkie grabbing a Megaphone out of nowhere and screamed into it.

"SEE YOU SOON SILVER!!!!! HAVE FUN!!!!" 

The girls just looked at her, their ears ringing.

"Pinkie!" Twilight screamed, trying to get hearing back in her ears by rubbing her ears.

"...You think he heard me?" Pinkie asked casually.

"WHAT?!" They yelled, clearly deaf.






Canterlot






As Silver left Canterlot, he was certain he heard Pinkie scream to him, saying to 'have fun'. He shrugs as they eventually arrived in Canterlot.

Silver gets off the chariot after it landed. He gives a nod.

"Thanks for the ride." Silver said.

The Guards nodded back before they returned to the Castle that was resting not to far where they landed. Silver looks around and smiled.

"...Doesn't look like a lot has changed in the past five years." He thought to himself as he began trotting along the street.

The unicorns he passed by looked toward Silver, some just acting high and mighty and just ignore him, others look at him and find him familiar. He gave them a nod, and they would return it. He eventually comes down the street in which he spots his old home. It appears vacant, so it was rather surprising to see that no one bought the house. He can tell that the windows looked dusty after not being lived in for years.

He approached the front door and tries to open it, but found it locked. He didn't recall locking the door when he left five years prior, but chances are the locks weren't change since then. He goes down onto a step, where there was a loose brick.
He pulls it out and underneath it, an old key rested.

"Heh, guess nopony bothered to look into it further..." Silver muttered to himself, smirking, picking the key up and placing the brick back in its place.

He inserts the key and the door clicks unlocked and he opens the door, which creaks out into the home. To his surprise, everything was exactly the same as he left it, but covered in dust. He closed the door and walks around in the house, finding most of the furniture, decorations, other possessions still intact. He goes upstairs and opens up a door near the end of the hall, and finds his old bedroom, with most of his toys and books still where he left it all. He gave a sad smile, memories of this place fill his mind.

He left the room and goes into Golden's bedroom, which everything was still like the way she left it before being taken to the hospital. He walks over to her nightstand, picking up a picture frame, as he blew the dust off it and rubbed the glass, showing an image of Golden Veil laying down with a Silver as a little colt, laying beside her with a bright grin.

"...It just felt like it was yesterday when this happened." Silver said to himself quietly, closing his eyes.

He knew that by all rights, the home belonged to him as it was one of the possessions that Golden written in her will sometime before her death. He knew he would need to come back and clean the place up, likely replace some of the stuff that has worn over time, likely get new decor and curtains. He knew that Rarity might be able to help him in that regard, and decided to ask her next time he came back to Ponyville.

He leaves the house, locking the door behind him, as he needed to go to one more place before he sets out what he came to Canterlot to do. He trots through the city, and makes his way up a large hillside, overlooking Canterlot, where a lone oak tree and a grave marker rested. On it read:






Here lies Golden Veil.
Devoted and beloved mother, a hard working pony.
972 - 995 CE






Silver stood there for a few minutes, before he lays down on his hooves, staring at the grave, with a sad smile. And a single tear drop.

"...Hi mom. I'm sorry I haven't visited you. I've been busy doing what you wanted to do, and that was to become a stronger pony..." He said quietly.
> Chapter 3 - Home is Where the Heart Is
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It has been nearly a few weeks since Silver Guardian left Ponyville after Nightmare Moon's defeat and the return of Princess Luna. He wrote to Twilight detailing that he was in the process of reclaiming his childhood home in Canterlot and would be a bit longer there than he thought. He was busy trying to sort out the details on ownership of the house, considering it was in Golden Veil's name and was one of the things she gave to Silver in her will after it was discussed to him prior to her burial, plus he needed to straighten the house up as it hasn't been occupied in five years.

He also was busy in his research in trying to tap into his unicorn magic that was dormant inside him, looking through the archives in the Canterlot Royal Library, thanks to Princess Celestia. He felt he was close to a breakthrough, but still feels as though he has more to do before he can use magic like any other unicorn. He also needed to know what sort of adverse effects could happen should he tap into something that has been laying dormant inside of him since he was born and how it would effect him as an Earth pony in general.

In the meantime, Twilight took time to write to Silver about things that happened in Ponyville since he left and how she enjoyed living there with their new friends. She explains how Celestia sent her two tickets to the upcoming Grand Galloping Gala, and was trying to figure out who she would bring with her as her second guest, but her friends didn't make her decision any easier as they kept trying to butter her up and do favors for her in the hopes of getting the extra ticket, and eventually most of Ponyville was chasing after her for the second ticket doing the same. Eventually, she explained how she broke down and told her friends that she didn't want to leave any of them out, whom all apologized for how they acted, and decided to send the two tickets back, claiming if she was not able to take any of her friends then she didn't want to go, to  Celestia via a letter. Only then did she end up receiving six tickets to the Gala after the princess wrote back, saying she should have asked for more tickets. Now they were all able to go to the Gala, including Spike.

Twilight was surprised to learn that a couple days after Silver returned to Canterlot, that the princess herself gave him a ticket to the Gala in the hopes he could attend and be there with his friends, which he graciously accepted. Silver wouldn't be lying if he said he wasn't stoked about going.

She then goes on how Applebucking Season has rolled around, and Applejack was being a stubborn mule when it came to getting help bucking down every apple tree at Sweet Apple Acres, wanting to prove she was capable of doing it all by herself, after her older brother Big McIntosh injured himself. Twilight offered Applejack help to harvest the apples, but refused it, and just made it worse for herself after she becomes sleep deprived. She promised to help her friends out with some tasks, but made it difficult because of being overworked: Rainbow Dash wanted her to launch her off a catapult to help practice new tricks in the air, but ended up missing the catapult multiple times and on the last attempt, launched Rainbow Dash, unprepared, into the Library. She then helped Pinkie Pie bake some muffins, but ended up putting 'questionable' ingredients in the muffins that ended up make several ponies, including Pinkie, sick, thus calling the baked goods, 'baked bads.' And finally, she was to help Fluttershy round up some bunnies that were for her bunny census. Her rough attitude and Winona, Applejack's collie, barking at the rabbits ended up making them stampede into Ponyville where they ruined the town gardens, eat most of the plants, and making Fluttershy's bunny census impossible to finish.

She goes into detail how she finally confronted Applejack about her stubborn attitude causing many problems for their friends, but after Applejack boasts she got every apple harvested in the orchard, Big Mac broke the news and told her she only did part of apple orchard, causing her to faint. Upon waking up, Applejack finally gave in and accepted the help, which made the harvesting much more efficient. Upon taking a break, Applejack thanks and apologized to her friends about her stubbornness and pride, to which Twilight explains that she learned that it is just okay to accept help from a friend as it is to give help.

Finally, she explains to Silver that later the following week that Rainbow Dash's old friend, a griffon named Gilda, came to visit her, which made Pinkie feel left out as her and Dash been bonding by playing pranks on some of their friends and other ponies in town. When Pinkie tried join the two, Gilda only told Pinkie to leave as she felt Rainbow Dash didn't need to hang out with a 'dweeb' like Pinkie.

After observing Gilda's behavior through Ponyville, she drew the line after witnessing the griffon roared at Fluttershy, whom was trying to direct a family of ducks through town and bumped into Gilda by accident,  to the point of tears. This caused Pinkie to try to fix the problem 'Pinkie Pie-style', by throwing a welcome party to Gilda, which involved her falling for several pranks much to her growing agitation and tries to hide it from everyone, including Dash.

When she crashed into the cake during 'Pin the Tail on the Pony', she loses her temper and calls all the attendees dweebs and Pinkie 'Queen Lame-o'. She then decides to leave with Dash in tow, but after seeing her true nature Dash explains it was her that set up the pranks, not all were meant for Gilda. Pinkie explains she did this in an attempt to improve her sour mood, contrary to what Gilda thought was a means to get back at her. Dash tells Gilda to go 'find some cool friends someplace else' if that was all she cared about, to which the griffon tells Dash she is a 'flip-flop' for hanging out with Pinkie and her friends instead of her, and simply leaves Ponyville.

Dash apologizes to all the attendees for Gilda's behavior, and patches things up with Pinkie by shaking hooves with a joy buzzer.

Twilight then apologizes to Pinkie for misjudging her on Gilda, and writes to Celestia that she learned that rather than trying to influence who your friends spend time with, you yourself should try to be a good friend, and trust that the true face of a false friend will eventually be revealed through their behavior. She even told Silver that she pranked Celestia by tricking her to write a letter using disappearing ink.






Silver's House - Canterlot
Evening






Silver laughed at his recent letter from Twilight, realizing he missed a lot these past few weeks. He finally got the ownership of his house ordeal done and has since cleaned the place up so that it looked new once again. He knew that he wouldn't be staying home that often, as he wanted to hang out with Twilight and the gang back in Ponyville, so he had to make it mission to purchase another home in Ponyville that would act as his more permanent residence, while his actual home here in Canterlot acts as a place to stay should he or the girls come up to Canterlot.

Sitting at his desk, he takes out a quill and begins to write on the parchment.






Golden Oak Library - Ponyville
15 Minutes Later






Spike was checking down a checklist of spells Twilight was preparing to practice the next day. There were originally twenty-four spells she wanted to practice, until Spike convinced her to add one more to the list: a 'growing' spell.

"So we have each spell listed?" Twilight asked.

"Yep!" Spike replied.

"Considering all that has been going on, I think it is a good time to get some magic practice in. Can never be too rusty!" Twilight giggled.

"Oh come on Twi, you are a great unicorn! I mean you represent the Element of Magic, so I doubt you could get rusty doing some simple spells." Spike added.

"That may be, but it does help broaden the mind. Even if some of these spells won't have that much application down the road." Twilight added as she looked in a book of spells she planned to do.

Spike smirked to himself.

"Except spell number 25..." He thought.

Suddenly, Spike's cheeks puffed up as he burped out a green flame turned into a scroll. Spike looked at it.

"Hey Twilight! I think Silver sent you another letter."

Twilight's ears perked up as she looks over, and of course, the scroll was tied in dark green ribbon, and the seal was in the shape of Silver's cutie mark.

"Bring it here Spike! Wonder if he got my last letter." Twilight said, excited.

"He was gone for a few weeks Twilight, I can't imagine him not getting a letter from you. Though now it is a bit tedious considering Princess Celestia gave him a means to send letters to you directly as well." Spike said as he brought the letter over.

Twilight levitates it out of his claws as she unwraps the ribbon and opens the parchment and began reading the letter.





Dear Twilight,

I got your recent letter and I have to say, I'm pretty impressed at how much you are learning after moving to Ponyville. Shame I wasn't around when most of this stuff happened, but had a lot on my plate. I finally got the deed to my childhood home in my name so I now have a place to live in Canterlot again, but cleaning the place up by yourself cane be rather... Well tedious.

But, I lived five years alone in the Badlands in a stone hut, so I can't really complain, heh.

Anyway, I'm letting you know that since I gotten most of the important stuff done here, I'll be on the train back to Ponyville first thing tomorrow morning. Even though I have my own home here, I would rather be able to live nearby you and the girls in Ponyville, so I will go see Mayor Mare to see about buying a place there in town.

Oh yeah! I was very shocked to learn that the jewelry store my mom owned, The Golden Emerald, still in business even after all these years, is being managed by an old family friend of my mom's.

Her name is Diamond Dust, and when I went to see her at the store, she was happy to see me and was glad I'm in good health even after being gone for so long. She worked alongside my mom, and knows the ins and outs of jewelry making so she has been taking good care of the place.

According to my mom's will, she left Diamond the store, and because I am my mother's colt, I been given half the profits the store makes without actually having to worry about being a secondary owner, so at least I have a livelihood and not have to worry about bits. To think I was going to try to find odd jobs in trying to being a bodyguard for some of the influential members of Canterlot society. I mean, that is how I had to get by half the time I wasn't training.

So, I'll be by likely around noon tomorrow so let the girls know, after I get business done with the Mayor, I'll meet you at the Library.

Have a good evening.

Your closest friend,
Silver Guardian

P.S. Let Rarity know that the drapes she made for my house were nicely done. I think some ponies saw them and thought they matched the place up nicely. I'll have to let her know I may need her services again when I find a place down there in Ponyville.





Twilight grinned brightly.

"You hear that Spike, Silver's coming back tomorrow!" Twilight jumped up and down excitedly.

"Cool! It feels like it's been an eternity since we seen him, even if he left a few weeks ago. I can't wait to learn more about him." Spike said grinning softly.

"You like having him around?" Twilight asked, as she puts the letter away.

"He has an interesting life. I just wanna know how he was able to survive for that long in the middle of nowhere, by himself. Plus he is the only other guy I would know that hangs out with us." Spike added.

Twilight giggles.

"Well I suppose that is true. Anyway Spike, let's just finish up preparing for tomorrow and call it a day, okay?"

Spike gave a salute.

"Yes, ma'am!"






Ponyville
Early Morning






The Friendship Express slowly pulls into Ponyville Train Station early the following morning, however Silver was the only occupant that gets off the train. He checks the clock that was standing there on the platform, noting it was only going on 7AM. Celestia's sun was already peering over the horizon, as Luna's moon began to set down the opposite end.

"Well, I still have time before Town Hall opens up, and not a lot of ponies are out yet. Guess I can enjoy the cool morning until then." Silver said to himself as he trots off the platform and into Ponyville proper.

He noticed that some vendors that open up stalls were beginning to get things prepared for the day, and stores were preparing as well, but aside from those, seems like most ponies were still sleeping. He wanted to surprise Twilight by showing up early, but chances are she and Spike were likely still in bed, unless she gets up early to practice her magic. Regardless, he just wanted to enjoy the quiet morning.

As he trots through town, he couldn't help but notice a new sight: behind the Town Hall, a rather small tan wagon with a red roof, a window with two shutters covering it that had two blue hearts on them, and around the front underneath the window was a blue crescent moon decorated onto the wagon.

Silver tilts his head, as he knows this wasn't here before.

"Must be somepony from out of town..." Silver mused.

It was then coming out of the back of the wagon, a young, bright azure unicorn mare with a pale cauliflower blue mane with very pale cerulean stripes, dark grayish violet eyes, and a cutie mark of a magic wand and a swirl of blue magic coming off it. She looked to be around Twilight's age.

As the mare was checking around her wagon, she then turns her head to find the young stallion just standing there, and looking at her. She jumped with a yelp, which took Silver aback, before giving him a soft glare.

"You there! Why are you just standing there, gawking at the Great and Powerful Trixie?!" Trixie yelled.

He just rubs the back of his neck, chuckling nervously. Mentally, he kicked himself for not speaking up.

Trixie's glare softened more, as he just raised her brow giving him a confused looked before sighing.

"Listen, Trixie is not taking autographs right now, for she needs to get prepared for her performance later today. If you don't mind, leave Trixie be and come back later." Trixie said as she goes back to inspecting her wagon.

"Oh, sorry... I didn't mean to scare you or bother you. I was passing by and noticing... You are not from around here right?" Silver said, as he regained his calm composure.

Trixie nods.

"Well, you would be right. Trixie is a traveler, having gone across most of Equestria, performing my spectacular feats of magic that would ever grace pony eyes!" Trixie smirked confidently, placing her hoof up to her chest.

"Ah, so you are a traveling magician pony. That makes sense now. I'll admit, you do have that magician feel about you." Silver said, placing his hoof up to his chin.

Trixie chuckles.

"Why thank you, kind gentlecolt. It is good to know that there are those that appreciate what Trixie can do." Trixie replied.

She then looked over Silver, noticing his cloak and his Mythril Sword shealthed to his side, and his saddlebag.

"What about you? You don't appear to be from this town, plus Trixie doesn't think anypony openly goes around with a sword on them, unless they be of the Royal Guard. Are you a Royal Guard or something?" Trixie asked.

Silver shook his head.

"Well you'd be right. I'm not from Ponyville, I actually hail from Canterlot, but I'm not a part of the Royal Guard. I'm more or less a pony who has a flighty nature, and one who wants to protect others from danger." Silver explained.

"Hmm... Trixie was unaware that many Earth ponies would be from Canterlot..." Trixie mused.

"It's a long story, but my mother was a unicorn, and my dad was likely an Earth pony." Silver said, rubbing his hoof against the ground.

Trixie raised her brow.

"Was? You mean to tell Trixie your mother isn't around anymore?"

He sighs, and nods.

"Yeah... Passed away five years ago when I was just a growing colt. And I never met my father, as he left my mom when I wasn't born yet. He is out there... Somewhere. I doubt I'll ever meet him since I don't know what he looks like, as my mom never kept a lot of photos of him. She said she still loved him dearly, but seeing a photo of him would've likely made her more saddened. She just wanted to raise me as best as she could be, and she did." Silver said, frowning.

Trixie was silent for a few moments.

"...Trixie sees. Well, sorry for your loss mister...?" Trixie raised.

"Silver. Silver Guardian, and no need for the 'mister'." Silver answered.

"Right... Well forgive Trixie Silver, but as pleasant it is to chat with a pony like yourself, Trixie needs to finish getting ready. Be sure to come here this afternoon, for you shall be awed by the stunts and tricks that only the Great and Powerful Trixie can achieve!" She said, grinning brightly.

Silver could only chuckle.

"Yeah, I'm sure you'll do good. You don't see a lot of traveling magician ponies around nowadays, so it will be interesting to say the least." He said with a soft smile.

"Of course! It is my special talent to do feats that would even make the great Hoofdini proud! Now then, if you would excuse Trixie..." Trixie said as she waves and continues inspecting her wagon.

"Right... See you later 'Oh Great and Powerful Trixie'." Silver quipped as he walks away.

Trixie just looks toward the stallion, couldn't help but feel as there is something... Mysterious, about him. But she shrugs it off and continues with her preparations.






Town Hall - Ponyville






Silver steps hoof inside the large building, which only a few weeks ago was where all of the citizens of the town were gathering for the Summer Set Celebration and been greeted by Nightmare Moon's return. Now the large hall was empty with not a lot of ponies around.

"Hmm..." Silver thought, as he looks around, and happen to see a cyan coated Earth mare with an orange flower placed over her right ear, had a cream colored mane and tail that swirled at the ends, and wore an orange blouse, covering her cutie mark.

"Hi there. I was hoping if you know who I speak to about purchasing a home here in Ponyville." Silver asked.

The receptionist's ears twitched as she turns around and see Silver. Hearing his question, she gave a soft smile and asked.

"Well, that depends. Are you new to Ponyville?"

"Well I was here a few weeks ago for the Summer Sun Celebration, but I was just passing through on my way to Canterlot. I own my mother's house up there, but I do wish to have a home here, so I'm closer to my friends." Silver replied.

"Well, you should be aware that if you are looking for a house, that the mayor has to approve all real estate purchases within the town limits. As of right now, there are three houses for sale." The receptionist explained.

"If you want, I can mark them down on a map for you. They are free for residents and future residents of Ponyville." She added.

"Oh that would be fine. It'll let me get better look around town and time to see the houses before buying them. I suppose I'll need to come back once I decide?" Silver asked.

The receptionist nods.

"Yes, once you decide which home you will settle for, I will let the mayor know that you wish to speak to her and she will handle all the paperwork. Here is your map." She replied, as she hands Silver a map of Ponyville with the three locations marked.

"Thank you. I'll be back soon." Silver nodded graciously.

The receptionist nodded back as she went back to work, leaving Silver alone.

"Alright, might as well go check these places out while the morning is still young." He said to himself.

Silver went to the three different places that a house was for sale on the map. One was within town, located just near the town square, and was a homey, two-story house.

The next was located alongside a small river, which looked like a small cottage. It was within reasonable distance to town, and looked rather quaint.

The last was located literally near the Everfree Forest, as the map seemed to have an exclamation mark around the area. The house itself looked small, and was surrounded by a lot of odd, blue flowers. It seemed that this place hasn't been visited a lot considering the fauna that was growing here also grows within the Everfree Forest.

Despite this, the house was structurally sound, with a view of the forest and the fields and hills surrounding it, but was pretty far out of town and was more private. It was also bit quieter out here.

He took his options and smiled as he came to a decision.






Town Center - Ponyville






Silver makes his way back into town, and as he begins to head toward the town center, he heard a familiar voice call out to him.

"Well howdy there Silver!" Applejack called out from her stall.

Silver turns and saw her, with a stall filled with apples and other apple related goods.

"Morning AJ. Good to see you." Silver said, as he approached the stall.

"Good to see ya too, sugarcube. Been a few weeks since we last saw y'all." Applejack replied.

Silver shrugs.

"Yeah, I know I said I would be a couple days, but after getting back to Canterlot I had to deal with ownership of my mom's house, and then there was my research, and cleaning up the house, it was a busy few weeks for me." He chuckled.

"Well its good to see ya back here, Silver. Ah know Twilight been missing y'all. Were ya thinkin of visiting her?" Applejack asked.

"Not yet, I figured she be asleep still, considering how early it is. Plus I'm heading back to the Town Hall to discuss with the mayor about buying a home here." Silver responded.

Applejack grinned.

"Really? Ya planning on living here too? What about yer home up in Canterlot?"

"Don't worry, I'm still living there as well, but I wanted to get a home down here that way I'm closer to you and the girls. I know I might not be around a lot, but I still want to hang out with you. I mean we are friends now, right?" Silver asked, grinning.

Applejack just chuckles.

"Sugarcube, ever since y'all helped Twi out by keeping her safe from Nightmare Moon until we showed up to stop her and bring Princess Luna back, I reckoned we're good friends."

He grinned brightly.

"Well, I'm glad then. Anyway, see you selling some apples today, huh?"

"Y'all betcha! Only the freshest from Sweet Apple Acres! Would ya like to buy some, sugarcube?" Applejack asked.

He thought about it. He didn't eat yet, so it would be a good idea to have breakfast. Plus, he should have plenty of bits for purchasing the house he plans on getting.

"I'll buy five apples, and a bottle of apple juice."

Applejack places five apples into a small bag and sets the bottle of apple juice next to it.

"Consider it a gift, for coming to live in Ponyville." Applejack gave a content smile.

Silver blinked in surprise.

"Oh AJ, you don't have to do that. I'm willing to pay." Silver said.

Applejack just raised her hoof up.

"Oh don't ya worry about it. Y'all need all the bits ya need for yer new home."

Silver laughed softly as he takes the bag and bottle, placing the bag of apples in his saddlebag.

"Well if you insist... Thank you Applejack."

"Anytime sugarcube. Ya get going to see the Mayor, and get yer home situation done. We'll meet up later then." Applejack tipped her stetson.

"Catch you later, AJ." Silver said as he waved his hoof up to his head and walks off to Town Hall.




Town Hall - Ponyville





He enters the building once again, and caught the receptionist again, whom waved to him.

"Welcome back. I take it you found the house that suited you?" She asked.

Silver nods.

"I have."

"Well I have informed the mayor that you wish to speak to her about a house. I will go and get her for you." She replied, and then walks away.

A few moments later, Mayor Mare approaches Silver.

"Ah, I have seen you with Twilight Sparkle and her friends when you returned with Princess Celestia and Luna during the Summer Sun Celebration. I never got to properly introduce myself, considering what was going on." Mayor Mare said.

"I am Mayor Mare, and I formally welcome you to Ponyville, sir." She held her hoof out.

Silver shook her hoof, smiling softly.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Mayor. I am Silver Guardian." He greeted.

"Well Silver, it has come to my attention you wish to purchase a home here in Ponyville, correct?" She asked.

Silver nods.

"Wonderful! It is always a pleasure to meet new ponies who want to move to our little town. I take it you seen what was available to you?" Mayor asked again.

"Yes, and they are quite lovely little abodes." Silver replied.

She smiled.

"Well, which home have you decided to purchase?"

Silver took another moment to think it through, and then he smiled as he answered.

"I do not know why, but the Forest Home... It just beckons me." Silver answered.

"Well, considering that the location of that home is right next to the Everfree Forest, it has been difficult for any buyers to purchase it, considering it is near one of the most dangerous places in Equestria. However, seeing as the house is still standing, I don't think you have to worry about anything coming out of the Everfree Forest as most of the creatures that reside there tend to stay there, so I assure you that you will be just fine." Mayor Mare explained.

"I've lived out in the Badlands for five years alone, I doubt living next to the Everfree will be able to disturb me that much." Silver replied.

Mayor Mare nods.

"Well in either case, it is wonderful that somepony finally bought that house. Now, originally the home would be sold for 2100 bits, but because of the decline in our housing market as of late, and the fact we've been trying for several months to sell that house in particular, I would be willing to sell it to you for... 950 bits."

He blinked, as he heard the price.

"Wow, that is a pretty good deal. I can live with that, no problem." Silver said as he took out a large bag of bits.

"Here, that should cover it." He said as he handed the mayor the bag of bits.

"Wonderful! Here is the key to your new home." Mayor Mare took the bag of bits and handed Silver a key to the house.

Silver took the house key and placed it in his saddlebag.

"It was good doing business with you, Mayor Mare." Silver said bowing his head down.

Mayor Mare nods her head down, smiling softly.

"Oh think nothing of it. It just brings me joy to have another fine resident here in our town, even if you are a bit out of the way. I do hope you enjoy your stay here in Ponyville, and that if you need further help, be sure to come here for assistance."

"Will do, thank you again, Mayor." Silver said as he turns around to leave.

Mayor Mare said her farewells as she returned to work, and Silver steps outside, seeing that the sun was pretty much up,
And ponies started to fill the streets.

"Well, I suppose I should go get some furniture for my new place. Gotta have at least a bed, and then maybe request Rarity to help make some decor for the place." Silver said to himself.

With that, he spent a good part of his morning getting things done for his new place. He stopped at the small furniture store and ordered several pieces, namely a large bed, a sofa and love seat, a desk, the necessities. He would have them delivered to his house by the end of the day, so he got half of what he needs done complete. By the time he was done, it was already close to 11:30, and was almost noon.

"Well, suppose I'll run home to drop my saddlebags off and rush over to the Library to surprise Bookie." Silver said as he galloped off.






Ponyville Outskirts






Silver reach the town outskirts as he galloped down the road, passing some ponies who waved to him, as he rushes past them. As he went, he heard someone yell from above.

"Yo! Silver! Up here!"

Silver continued galloping as he looks up and sees a rainbow blur fly by and soon hovering at his speed above him.

"Hey Rainbow Dash! How's it going?" He asked, not breaking a sweat.

"Oh you know, continuing to being the most awesome pony there is! How about you? Haven't seen you in weeks!" Dash asked as she fluttered above him.

"I know! I been busy with getting stuff done up in Canterlot. Right now I'm rushing to my new place to drop my saddlebags off and going to meet Twilight at the Library!" He panted out.

"You bought a new place down here? Sweet! Which house did you buy?" Dash asked.

"The one next to the forest! I don't know why, but something in the back of my mind told me to just get it! It is a bit a ways out of town, but I kind of like it, even if its next to the Everfree!" Silver replied.

She did a somersault, before doing a corkscrew dive, and then suddenly was on the ground galloping by him.

"Don't sweat it! Fluttershy has a cottage near the forest too! Mostly so she can watch for any animals that may come out of the forest or wander toward there. I think she doesn't live to far from you! You should go visit her sometime!" She yelled, panting.

"I'll do that! Listen, if you head back to town, don't tell Twilight I'm here yet, I want to surprise her! Plan to meet up with you girls after awhile then to hang loose. Won't be leaving town anytime soon!" Silver said with a smirk.

Rainbow nodded.

"Awesome! And don't worry I won't tell her! I better get back to practice, catch you later, dude!" Dash said as she took off into the air in a blur, the tailwind of her flying off made Silver go faster on ground.

"Woah! Later Dash!" Silver shouted as she turned down a road.

Soon, he arrived back at his new house, and stopped as he panted.

"Phew... That was a run." He wiped his brows, as he reached for an apple and his bottle of apple juice from his saddlebag and started to eat the apple.

"Wow... That is pretty fresh." Silver said as he sipped his apple juice.

"Least this takes care of breakfast." He said as he walks into his house, and sets his saddlebags down against the wall, and takes the bag of apples and juice to the kitchen and sets them on the counter.

"Okay, likely won't get my bed and stuff until later this afternoon. It is almost noon, so I better head on back to see Twi."

He leaves the house and makes his way back to town, which in the span of it galloping from town, was 15 minutes, and thus was 15 minutes back to town.






Golden Oak Library - Ponyville






"Come on, Twilight. You can do it!" Spike said, as he looked eagerly at Twilight, with a chalkboard behind him with a list of spells that Twilight performed already checked off, and they were on the twenty-fifth one.

Twilight grins confidently.

"Okay, here goes." She replied, as she hods her head down.

The magic in her horn charges up, before the area around Spike's upper lips tingle, and sudden poof up a black mustache. Spike looked with glee.

"Ha ha! Ya did it!" Spike said in an giddy tone as she checks off the last spell on the list.

"Growing magic, that's number twenty-five. Twenty-five different types of tricks and counting." He added.

Twilight just gave a modest grin, as Spike looks in a mirror at his mustache.

"And I think this is the best trick so far!" He then gave a suave looking stare in the mirror at himself, as he twirls his mustache.

"Hello, Rarity. What's that? Aw, it's nothin' special, just my awesome mustache!"

Spike began to laugh, as Twilight just giggled and rolled her eyes.

"Sorry, Romeo. As attractive and enticing as you look, this is just for practice, and it's gotta go."

"W-wait!" Spike cried out.

With that, her horn glows again, and the mustache poofs away off Spike's face.

He then groans.

"Aw, rats..."

Twilight then giggles.

"Aw, come on Twi. I thought he looked like a natural Casanova with that stache." A voice said, coming from the entrance from the library.

She gasps, grinning as she recognized the voice, and turns around and there was Silver leaning against the doorway, smirking.

"Guess who?"
> Chapter 4 - Boast Busters... Busted!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------





Golden Oak Library - Ponyville





Silver approached the front door to the library, and was going to knock but heard Spike inside cheering about Twilight achieving twenty-five spells, and sounded excited about this one in particular.

He smirked and gently opened the door as he peers and sees Twilight, watching Spike looking at himself in the mirror, with a pretty nice looking mustache. He just leans against the doorway with both forelegs and hind legs crossing over each othe and watched for a moment.

"Hello, Rarity. What's that? Aw, it's nothin' special, just my awesome mustache!"

Spike began to laugh, as Twilight just giggled and rolled her eyes.

"Sorry, Romeo. As attractive and enticing as you look, this is just for practice, and it's gotta go."

"W-wait!" Spike cried out.

With that, her horn glows again, and the mustache poofs away off Spike's face.

He then groans.

"Aw, rats..."

Twilight then giggles. And Silver stifles a chuckle, before finally making is presence known.

"Aw, come on Twi. I thought he looked like a natural Casanova with that stache." Silver said with a broad grin.

Her ears twitched, as both she and Spike looked toward the door and spot the grinning stallion, leaning there.

"Guess who?"

Twilight jumps with glee.

"Silver! You're here!" She squeaked loudly as she rushes over and gives the stallion a tight hug.

"Woah, easy there Twi, I know I was gone for a few weeks, not like I left again without saying anything." Silver said, as he went and hugged her back as tightly.

Twilight just blushed lightly, before letting go.

"Ehehehe... Right... Anyway come on in! How long have you been standing there anyway?"

He walks inside the door and closes the door behind him.

"Long enough to see Casanova there getting ready to ask the mare of the evening out for a dinner." Silver replied.

Spike's eyes widen and blushed as he chuckles nervously.

"Y-you seen all that...?" Spike choked up.

"Oh yeah, and I did mean what I said, you looked good with a stache." Silver said with a wink.

Spike's face lit up.

"R-really? You think Rarity would like it..??" Spike asked in a hopeful tone.

"Well, really depends if she fancy's mustaches." Silver said causally. 

Twilight rolls her eyes.

"Silver, don't encourage him." 

He laughs.

"Anyway, from looking at that checkboard, I take it you guys been at this all morning?" Silver asked.

Twilight grinned and nods.

"Yep! I wanted to try some spells to practice with. Can't get rusty now, can we?" Twilight asked.

"Even though I wanted to sleep in an extra hour..." Spike grumbled.

"So you were up all morning...?" Silver asked incredulous.

Twilight tilts her head at Silver.

"Of course, why do you ask?" She asked.

"...Well, I figured you would be still asleep because... I been here since 7 this morning." Silver chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck.

"What?! You were in town this morning and you didn't come over??" Twilight yelled as she rushed up to him and stared him down.

"Hey hey hey, ease up there Twinkle Hoofs. I just thought you'd be asleep around that time, so I just walked around town, enjoy the morning air, before I went to visit the mayor about getting a house here." He replied.

Twilight blinks as she backed up.

"Oh right... you did mention in your letter last night that you were planning on living down here. Did you get one?" She asked, grinning.

"Heh, why don't we head out and find the girls first. I'll take you all to see it then and then we can all hang out." Silver grinned.

"Alright! Let's go Spike!" Twilight said, looking back at the baby dragon.

"Way ahead of you!" Spike replied, as the three head out into town.






Near Town Square - Ponyville






The three were walking down the street, as it was now past noon. They decided to go see if Applejack was still near the Town Center, even though Twilight said she often has her stall open until noon before heading back to the farm. As they walked, Spike was still on Twilight for her skills as a unicorn.

"Twenty-five, Twilight. Twenty-five different kinds of tricks and counting. I thought unicorns were only supposed to have a little magic that matches their special talents!" Spike said.

Twilight took a moment to respond to that.

"True, for ponies whose talents are for things like cooking or singing or math. But what if a unicorn's special talent is magic?" Twilight asked.

"Like you, Twilight, and you know a ton of magic." Spike answered with a soft grin.

Twilight simply shook her head.

"Oh, Spike, stop. I'm sure there are lots of ponies right here in Ponyville that know just as much magic as me."

"Says the one who bears the Element of Magic." Silver rebutted with a smirk.

Twilight looked at Silver, giving a sheepish grin.

"Okay, point taken. I know I studied magic almost all my life, but I feel as though there might slightly better unicorns out there that could be better at magic than me." Twilight rebutted back.

Silver shurgs.

"It is possible. Who knows, maybe I could have powerful magic."

Spike looks at Silver questioningly.

"But you're an Earth pony." Spike commented.

"Well that is half true, but after doing my research while I was in Canterlot, I learned that I'm a special case of being a halfling. Essentially, I am half of two pony species; born an Earth pony and all the qualities thereof, but also harnessing unicorn magic that is dormant inside me." Silver answered passively.

Spike and Twilight look at each other. Clearly, this was the first time both have even heard of something like this. She looks at the stallion, raising a brow.

"I read up on a lot of basic and advanced studies on the species of a pony, but I never heard of a 'halfling' before."

"That's the thing, there hasn't been a lot of studies on halflings. Any research notes on the case, is rather vague as there is a 0.02% chance of a pony being born with the genetics of both parents. I just happen to be born as a unicorn without a horn and have the traits of an Earth pony." Silver explained.

"The other information that does exist say that one can go on their whole lives without knowing they have the traits of two different pony species. Doctors learned that I have unicorn magic in me despite being an Earth pony. They were just as baffled as my mom was, as they didn't know if something could've happened if all that magic that was swelling up inside me as I was growing up as a foal would do some bad, since I have no means of expelling it. I'm just lucky it has been dormant in me for years. Which is why I am dedicating my time in trying to find a way to tap into it by artificial means." He added.

"You mean like making a fake horn?" Spike asked.

"Something like that, but during my studies over the years, I learned that another method of trying to tap into magic is through the use of gemstones or crystals that can harness magic. Why else do you think I have this gemstone as the clasp for my cloak? It is basically my horn." Silver asked.

"Well, you did say you were close to a breakthrough in your letter to me." Twilight replied.

"Yeah, however I feel as if I'm lacking the proper means of tapping into the magic. I'm so close, I can feel it. But, alas the search continues." SIlver said frowning.

Twilight and Spike shurg.

"Well hopeful you figure it out Silver. Just know I'm always here for you if you want my help." Twilight said as she placed a hoof on his shoulder.

He smiled.

"Thanks Twi."

Spike then cuts in.

"Well either way, until Silver figures out how to use unicorn magic, I don't think there's another unicorn in all of Equestria with your kind of ability, Twilight."

Both ponies just roll their eyes and chuckle. Suddenly, he heard a young colt yell out as two unicorn colts: a skinny gold colt that had freckles, an aquamarine mane and tail, with the cutie mark of a snail and a rather small, round grayish opal unicorn colt with an orange mane and tail, buckteeth, and a cutie mark of a pair of scissors, gallop past the trio.

"Gangway! Comin' through!" The golden colt yelled.

Both Twilight and Silver moved out of the way, while Spike ends up spinning around as the two run past him.

"Augh! Snips! Snails! What's goin on?" Spike yelled at the two.

The two stop and Snails rushes up to Spike.

"Wha, haven't you heard?" Snails asked up in Spike's face.

"Woah!" Spike yelped.

Snips approached the three, looking at Spike, before Snails replies.

"There's a new unicorn in town!" He said excitedly.

"Yeah! They say that she's got more magical powers than any other unicorn ever!" Snips added, just as excited.

Twilight tilts her head, while Silver closed his eyes in thought.

"Really?" Twilight asked.

Spike then rolls his eyes as he points to Twilight.

"Aw, no way, that honor goes to Twilight here." Spike said, smirking.

Twilight flatten her ears, as she looks the other way, blushing lightly, before looking at the two colts.

"Where is this unicorn?" Twilight asked.

Snips hops as he answers.

"Ho, she's in the town center. Come on!" Snips yelled as he darts off again.

Snails laughed and followed his friend.

"Yeah! Come on! Whooo!" Snails yelled out in excitement, leaving the three alone.

"Town center... yep, I have a feeling who they are talking about. Well, I did say I'd come by later, might as well see her in action." Silver thought.

"Well, let's go check it out you two." Twilight said as she goes on ahead.

Spike and Silver look at each other and follow Twilight.






Town Center - Ponyville






A large crowd appeared behind the Town Hall, as they stand before the small wooden wagon that Silver saw earlier. Silver, Twilight and Spike all move through the crowd to the front where they meet up with Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy as they wait.

A loud voice echoes out from inside the wagon, one voice Silver recognizes.

"Come one, come all! Come and witness the amazing magic of the Great and Powerful Trixie! " Trixie yelled. 

The seemingly small wagon, opens up to a large stage, revealing a swirling disc with some pyrotechnics on it, a large globe with stars attaching to it with gold springs, a large firework, some horns on each side of the stage and a large banner that had Trixie's cutie mark on it.

A burst of light shot out as a smoke bomb was set off and there was Trixie, wearing a magician hat and cape with different types of stars on them and fastened by a gemstone similar to Silver's, though was likely for decoration. Trixie gives a rather snarky grin.

The audience all watched in awe, seemingly impressed.

"Watch in awe as the Great and Powerful Trixie performs the most spectacular feats of magic ever witnessed by pony eyes!" Boasted Trixie, as a fanfare and her fireworks all go off, dazzling the audience.

Everyone aside from Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity who just give a deadpan stare. Silver just looks with a look of concern.

"My, my, my! What boasting!" Rarity scoffed.

Spike then cuts in, who seemed to share her sediment.

"Come on, nopony's as magical as Twi— Twi— Twi— Oh!" Spike stutters, as Rarity looks at him with a confused look.

"Hey, Rarity, I, uh— Mustache!" Spike gave a weak grin at as he points to his nonexistent mustache, with Rarity just raising a brow at him.

Silver just looks at him and stifles a chuckle.

"...Good one Casanova." Silver muttered toward Spike, who just gave a soft glare at the stallion.

Twilight just looked at them confused.

"There's nothing wrong with being talented, is there?" She asked.

Applejack looks at her, with a stern gaze.

"Nothin' at all, 'cep'n when someone goes around showin' it off like a school filly with fancy new ribbons." Applejack said, as she glared up at Trixie, who just made a bouquet of flowers appear and levitated them to herself as she looked content.

Rarity then steps in as she looks to Twilight.

"Just because one has the ability to perform lots of magic does not make one better than the rest of us." Rarity huffed.

Rainbow Dash, though, just gave a cocky grin.

"Especially when ya got me around being better than the rest of us." Dash laughed.

It was then followed by Applejack glaring at Rainbow Dash, whom then stopped, before changing her mind, and looking up at Trixie.

"Eh, I mean, yeah, uh, magic shmagic. Boo!" Dash heckled.

This grabs Trixie's attention, as she frowns looking out at the audience.

"Well, well, well, it seems we have some neighsayers in the audience. Who is so ignorant as to challenge the magical ability of the Great and Powerful Trixie? Do they not know that they're in the presence of the most magical unicorn in all of Equestria?" Trixie asked intently.

Silver on the other hand, just stifled and giggle.

If anything, a bad pun usually gets him.

Rarity then blew a raspberry, with a look of unamusement.

"Just who does she think she is?" She asked.

"Yeah! Since we all know that Twilight here is—" Spike added, but was cut off by Twilight, who pulled him aside.

"Spike! Shh!" She pleased, with Silver looking at the two and Spike just looking at her confused.

"What? What's wrong?" Spike asked.

"You see the way they reacted to Trixie? I don't want anypony thinking I'm a show-off." She said with a look of worry in her eyes.

"Twi, you are not the one to show-off... I'm your friend, and while I am watching Trixie... she is boastful, but I'm not the type to judge right away. But I know you are not the type that would show-off in the same vain as her..." Silver whispered.

"Thanks Silver, but still... I don't feel right trying to show her up..." She replied.

They were cut off as a small fanfare played, causing the three to turn their attention back at the stage. Rainbow Dash then flew up to Trixie, with a look of suspicion as she hovers there.

"So, "Great and Powerful Trixie". What makes you think you're so awesome, anyway?" Dash asked.

Trixie smirked.

"Heh, why, only the Great and Powerful Trixie has magic strong enough to vanquish the dreaded ursa major!" Trixied boasted, as the fireworks and fanfare go off again.

The audience all gasped in amazement.

"What?" Snips asked, tilting his head.

"No way!" Snails yelled out like his mind was just blown.

Silver took a moment to let that sink in.

"...Okay now I know she is making that story up... No way in Tarartus she did that." Silver thought, just looking at Trixie in disbelief, before he puts his hoof up to his chin, looking up. 

"Then again... a magician needs a clever story to entice their audience."

Trixie then launched a magical projection from her horn as told her story, detailing it with a visual cue of her against an ursa major.

"When all hope was lost, the ponies of Hoofington had no one to turn to, but the Great and Powerful Trixie stepped in, and with her awesome magic, vanquished the ursa major and sent it back to its cave deep within the Everfree Forest!" 

The visual projection then exploded into fireworks, which further dazzled the audience, especially Snips and Snails.

"Aw, sweet!" The two colts cheered.

The two step up, as they seem to boast out to the crowd.

"That settles it!" Snips yelled.

"Trixie truly is the most talented, the most magical, the most awesome unicorn in Ponyville!" Snails added.

"No, in all of Equestria!" Snips added, as the crowd all cheered, Trixie looking rather content with a soft grin.

Spike then glared up at the two, finding all this hard to believe.

"How do you know? You didn't see it! And besides, Twi—" Once again, Twilight cuts him off, by literally zipping his mouth shut, surprising the dragon. "Mmmph! Mmph!"

"Wow... brings a whole new meaning to the phrase 'Zip your lip.'" Silver said as he looked at Spike as she struggled to get his mouth unzipped.

Trixie didn't hear him, as she laughs from the praise Snips and Snails gave her.

"It's true, my enthusiastic little admirers. Trixie is most certainly the best in Ponyville."

Only to hear the sound of crickets chirp, which only annoyed Trixie a bit, before smirking again.

"Don't believe the Great and Powerful Trixie?  Well then, I hereby challenge you, Ponyvillians. Anything you can do, I can do better. Any takers? Anyone? Hmm? Or is Trixie destined to be the greatest equine who has ever lived!?" Trixie bellowed, as her fireworks and fanfare play out again.

The audience looked at each other, with questioningly looks.

Spike, finally was able to unzip his lips, before he hugs Twilight's foreleg, looking desperate now.

"Please! She's unbearable! Ya gotta show her! Ya just gotta!" Spike cried.

Twilight gave him a look of concern, before he whispers to him again.

"There's no way I'm going to use my magic now, Spike. Especially since—"

Unfortunately, Trixie appeared to see her whispering to Spike, and sets her sights on Twilight.

"Hmm, how about you?" Trixie asked, as she points her hoof to Twilight.

Twilight's ears flattened as she stares up at the other mare, gulping.

"Well, how about it? Hm? Is there anything you can do that the Great and Powerful Trixie can't?" Trixie asked as she gazes right into Twilight, grinning.

"I... I..." Was all Twilight could stutter out.

"Well, little hayseed?" Trixie asked again.

Applejack then stepped up, glaring intently at Trixie.

"That's it! I can't stand for no more of this!" Applejack yelled, as she hops up on stage.

"You show her, AJ!" Spike cheered.

Applejack then whips out a lasso, and begins to use her tail to do some rodeo tricks, hopping through the lasso as she spun it around. The audience began to cheer for Applejack. To top it all off, she throws her lasso to a nearby appletree, grabbing an apple from it, and pulling it back to her as she catches it in her mouth and bites down on it, eating it. The audience cheered even more.

The farm pony gave a smirk at Trixie.

"Top that, missy."

Trixie, simply just looked unamused. Her horn begins to glow as she lifts her hat off.

"Oh ye of little talent. Watch and be amazed at the magic of Trixie! 

Her magic surrounds Applejack's lasso, and begins to have it sway around like a snake. Applejack just watched, somewhat amused, as the rope does the same thing and grabs another apple from the same tree. She was then surprised when it then quickly wraps around her, and ends up hog tying her hooves together and stuffing the apple into her mouth.

The crowd then laughs at Applejack's predicament, as she starts hopping around trying to find a way to get free, and cheers to Trixie.

"Once again, the Great and Powerful Trixie prevails." Trixie calmly boasted.

Rainbow Dash scowls, as she flew behind Trixie, glaring at the smug unicorn.

"There's no need to go struttin' around and showin' off like that!" 

Trixie just turns her head to stare at her, grinning.

"Oh?"

Rainbow Dash points to herself.

"That's my job!" She answered.

All Silver could do, was facehoof.

Rainbow then flies off, heading towards a windmill and begins flying around it repeatedly, gaining even more speed as she does so, and shoots off into the sky, flying a bunch of clouds, clearing them and getting soaked in precipitation, revealing the sun. She grins and flies back down, nosediving before doing a wide arc and landing onto the stage, as the precipitation she gathered followed her, hitting her from behind, to the point it created a mini rainbow above her. The audience cheered loudly for her. 

Silver wouldn't lie if he said he was amazed by that, but knew all she was doing was feeding into Trixie's ego.

"They don't call me "Rainbow" and "Dash" for nothin'!" She exclaimed.

While the crowd cheered, Trixie still kept a smug grin.

"When Trixie is through, the only thing they'll call you is loser."

Her horn glows as an aura surrounds Rainbow and the rainbow, causing the latter to spin rapidly around the former like a mini cyclone, causing her to spin rapidly out of control, around the same windmill and eventually landing on the ground in a daze.

"I think I'm... gonna be sick..." Dash mumbled.

"Seems like anypony with a dash of good sense would think twice before tussling with the Great Trixie." Trixie said, sending a small, dark rain cloud, behind the downed pegasus. 

Applejack, who since got unstuck, helps her friend up, but notices the cloud behind Rainbow, which sparked a thunderbolt, jolting her.

"YEOW!" Dash yelped.

The audience then laughed, as Trixie did the same.

Spike glared up at Trixie, clearly done with the showmare's stunts of humiliating his friends.

"What we need is another unicorn to challenge her. Someone with some magic of her own." Spike said, as Rainbow and Applejack smirked, looking down at the baby dragon.

"Yeah! A unicorn to show this unicorn who's boss." Rainbow agreed.

"A real unicorn to unicorn tussle." Applejack added.

Spike, clearly was looking at Twilight, whom just frowned.

"Uh..." Twilight uttered.

Silver just sighed, as he glared at Spike.

"Spike... you are not helping..." Silver whispered.

Before Spike could reply, Rarity jumps into the conversation.

"Enough. Enough, all of you. I take your hint, but Rarity is above such nonsense. Rainbow Dash and Applejack may behave like ruffians, but Rarity conducts herself with beauty and grace." Rarity said calmly, as the group looked at her.

Silver sighed in relief. Granted, Fluttershy hasn't said much while this whole thing was going on, not wanting any part of this showing up stuff, considering her kind, but very timid, nature. Least Rarity saw how pointless this all was.

"Ooo, what's the matter? Afraid you'll get a hair out of place in that rat's nest you call a mane?" Trixie asked, smirking.

The audience gasped. Silver just looked at Trixie, and simply placed his hoof on his chest.

"...Sweet Celestia, that was a burn if I never heard one..." Silver said quietly.

This, of course, sets Rarity off. She glares at Trixie, furrowing her brows furiously.

"Oh. It. Is. ON!" Rarity emphasized, as she hopes on stage, and began approaching Trixie, calmly.

"You may think you're tough with all of your so-called powers, but there's more to magic than your brutish ways." She explained, Trixie simply glaring at the white unicorn.

Rarity then grabs some of the curtains from the stage.

"A unicorn needs to be more than just muscle. A unicorn needs to have style." She added, as the curtain surrounds her, before turning into a fabulous blue dress with a gold frills and a saddle, as well as having her mane style changed.

The audience awed at this.

"A unicorn is not a unicorn without grace and beauty." Rarity said.

The audience cheers, while Trixie just gave a sinister grin, and her horn glows.

"Rarity won't let Trixie get the best of her! She's strong, she's beautiful, she's—" Spike was cut off as the sound of magic going off happened.

The audience then gasped. Spike, Silver and the girls just looked at Rarity in shock. Rarity, naturally, began to freak out.

"Quick! I need a mirror! Get me a mirror! What did she do to my hair? I know she did something terrible to my hair!" She asked in desperation. 

Wanting to spare her feelings, Twilight and the girls simply lied.

"Nothing." Twilight grinned sheepishly.

"It's fine." Rainbow lied.

"It's gorgeous." Applejack added.

Silver was about to comment, but Spike cuts in before he can say anything.

"It's green." Spike said.

Suddenly, they glared at him.

"What?" Spike asked.

"Spike... there is something called being subtle." Silver said in the most calm way possible.

Rarity, hearing what Spike said, caused her to look up and saw that her mane became a putrid green, and the top of it was made into a literally rats nest, as two pink tails could be seen sticking out at the top. Rarity began tearing up.

"Ugh, no. Green hair! Not green hair! Such an awful, awful color!" She cried as she ran off stage, past the crowd.

The last part of the comment made Golden Harvest take offense to that, as her mane and tail were, in fact, green.

"Well I never!" Golden scowled before walking away in a huff.

Spike then looks at Twilight.

"Well Twilight, guess it's up to you. Come on, show her what you're made of."

Twilight just backs away, ears pressed to her head.

"What do you mean? I'm nothing special." Twilight replied in a worried tone.

"Yes, you are! You're better than her!" Spike shouted.

"I'm not better than anypony!" Twilight shouted back at him, with pleading eyes to tell him to stop.

Trixie hearing her, simply grinned with sinister smile.

"Hah! You think you're better than the Great and Powerful Trixie? You think you have more magical talent? Well, come on, show Trixie what you've got! Show us all!" Trixie demanded.

All eyes laid on Twilight, who was on the verge of cracking. She just wanted to run away and hide. She just wanted this to stop.

"Enough." Silver said in a calm tone.

The stare he gave off though, was something else entirely.

He steps before Twilight, looking up at Trixie. Twilight simply looks at Silver, tilting her head.

"Trixie... please just stop this." Silver said simply.

"Oh? And why should Trixie stop, dear Silver?" Trixie asked.

"Because what you are doing is not something I expect a showpony like you would be doing. I been standing idly, watching you. When we first spoke this morning, I figured you would be an okay pony. You have potential, skill, and the qualities of an entertainer..." Silver replied.

"Well, you are too kind. Trixie knows she has all the potential and grace of a powerful unicorn." Trixie grinned brightly.

Silver still kept staring at her intently.

"Yes, however... A good entertainer does not humiliate her audience members the way you do. These are my friends that you hog tied, shocked, and seriously disheartened by ruining her mane. What you did was disrespectful and just shameful."

The audience began to murmur.

"Well good stallion. Trixie wants to know why you haven't tried to prove he was superior. You said you were an able swordspony, so why not come up on stage and try to prove Trixie wrong?" Trixie asked.

"Because I refuse to." Silver simply replied.

"So you admit that Trixie is better than you?" Trixie asked.

"I didn't say that. Trixie, you may have studied the type of magic you got your talent in, but I trained solo for five years... five years in that Celestia-forsaken Badlands to become stronger after my mother passed away. I was devastated that the one pony that cared for me for my foalhood departed from this world from an illness that not many doctors can learn about because of its rarity..."

"Five long years to strengthen my body and my mind, so that one day I don't lose another I care about. I trained to become a guardian and be willing to put my own life in danger so that others can live... My point is that I am quick with a blade, and while you may have an advantage with magic, 98% chance that you would lose against me. I did go off against Nightmare Moon herself in a sword fight, and won. But that was just to distract her long enough for the Elements of Harmony to stop her entirely and return Princess Luna to normal." He explained.

"I don't want to prove it, if it means I'd have to feed your ego, just like those two and Rarity did." He said as he pointed at Applejack and Rainbow.

"Hey!" Rainbow and Applejack exclaimed.

"You two were just feeding fuel to the fire, and just proving her point. Plus, you were being hypocrites as you two were also boasting about your own skills just to one up Trixie. And looked how that turned out..." Silver said without looking at them.

The two mares didn't have a response to that.

"I'm sorry Trixie, but even if you challenge me to a duel with blades, I have to refuse. A test of mettle or just to entertain the audience, then I'd obliged. However, I won't do it if its just going to feed your ego and try to prove your point. I'm not that dumb..."

"I don't think I can watch you go on, if this is how you perform. And because of that, I bid you a good day, Miss Trixie..." Silver said as he turns around and walks past Twilight, who just watched him go, now just concerned.

"Shame too... I was hoping to be your friend too, but alas... I don't think it would work out. If Hoofdini himself was watching this, he would not be amused by this." Silver added and walked away from the crowd down the street.

Trixie simply watched him go. She would just go on, but everything he said just now, becomes ingrained into her mind, even mentioning he wanted to be her friend. She frowns.

"Hmph, it appears that the Great and Powerful Trixie has decided to conclude this showtime for now. Do not bother her as she requires time to prepare for her next performance." Trixie yelled out as fireworks and the fanfare played out, causing Trixie to turn around and walk backstage. She then sighs deeply.

The audience just all looked at each other, confused.

"...I'll be back at the library." Twilight simply said as she trots back home.

Spike, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash just look at each other, with looks of concern.






Some time later...






Trixie was simply brushing her mane in front of a mirror, her stage having since been closed back into her wagon. While this was going on, she thought back about what Silver told her. She couldn't help but feel mad and a bit enraged at him for calling her out like that as well as refusing to challenge her, but also feel a bit sadden that he was willing to give her a chance, and wanted to try to be her friend.

She could agree that if the Great Hoofdini was still around, he likely would not be impressed by Trixie's method of entertaining.

Her thoughts were snapped out of it, when she looks down and sees Snips and Snails there, with the former holding a tray with a smoothie on it from his rump. Trixie backed up, surprised.

"Here's your smoothie you asked for, with extra hay, just how you like it." Snips said with glee.

"Mmm, hay." Snails said, his mind elsewhere.

Trixie simply glared at the two, mostly for bothering her, but regardless took the hay smoothie and sips it. The two colts look at her pleadingly.

"...Yes?" Trixie asked, while sipping, staring at the two.

"Ooo, tell us another story, Great and Powerful Trixie." Snips said in a giddy tone.

"Yeah, tell us about how you vanquished the ursa major." Snails added.

Trixie rolled her eyes, sighing.

"Guh! Trixie is far too exhausted from performing feats beyond imagination. Begone with you until morning." The mare said, as she waved her hoof away.

The two colts simply complied, bowing their heads as they start to back away.

"Oh, of course, Great and Powerful Trixie." Snails said.

"Anything you say. We are at your beck and call." Added Snips.

Trixie just shook her head, sipping her smoothie.

"Ah."

As the two continued backing away, Spike was standing behind them, his arms crossed, looking unimpressed at the two.

"What are you two doin'?" Spike asked, causing the two colts jump.

Snips looks at Spike, smiling.

"Just bringin' the Gee an' Pee Tee a—" Snips began but was cut-off from Spike.

"The what?" He asked, raising a brow.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie." Snips replied.

Spike just rolled his eyes.

"Sheesh..."

"Just bringin' her a smoothie." Snips replied again.

Spike then just sighs as he looks at the two.

"How can you fall for her lameness? She's just a show-off. Unlike Twilight, who—"

Snips cuts him off.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie vanquished an ursa major. Can your Twilight claim that?" He asked.

"Oh really? Were you guys actually there?" Spike asked, giving them a skeptic look.

The two stared at each other, frowning.

"Well, eh, uh... no, but—" Snips uttered out.

"But nothin'. The proof is in the pudding." Spike said.

Snails just laughs.

"I like pudding."

Spike crosses his arms and glares at them.

"Look, unless an ursa major comes waltzing up the street for Trixie to vanquish, I am not gonna believe a word she says, and neither should you!"

Hearing Spike, Snips grinned as he looks to his friend.

"Hm, an ursa walkin' up the street, hey? Snails! You thinkin' what I'm thinkin'?"

Snips took a moment to reply, but then asked a random question.

"Why is it they call it a flea market when they don't really sell fleas?"

Snips just stared at Snails for a moment.

"Yeah, uh... oh, come on!"

Snips then begins galloping off, with Snails following behind him. Spike watches them leave, and shrugs.






Golden Oak Library - Ponyville
Dusk






Twilight has been reading the same book for almost a few hours, ever since she came back from the town center. Spike stood behind her, near the checkboard of the spells she practiced early that morning.

"Twilight, would you put down that book and just listen to me?" Spike pleaded.

"Didn't you see how they hated Trixie's bragging, Spike? If I go out there and show off my magic, I run the risk of losing them as friends." Twilight said with a worried look on her face as she looks at him.

Spike shook his head.

"It's not the same thing, Twilight. You'll be using your magic to stand up for your friends!" Spike rebutted.

"No, Spike, it's exactly the same." She rebutted back.

He frowns deeper, before waving toward the checkboard.

"Come on, Twilight, any one of these tricks, even the teeniest, would be enough to show up Trixie."

Twilight was at her wits end.

"I don't want to be seen as a bragger like Trixie." 

She then summoned a blue door in front of Spike, and had it slam shut in his face. He simply opened the door.

"But you're the best!" Spike exclaimed.

Twilight glared at him, now irritated.

"Ugh! Please Spike, I said no!" She yelled.

Spike was about to argue more, but he sighs and just glared back.

"If that's the way you want to be, then fine." Spike said as he slams the door.

Twilight just gave an unimpressive look when he did that.

Spike then opens the door as he walks through it, not saying a word, and simply leaves out the front door, leaving Twilight alone, frowning and looking down ashamed.






Everfree Forest
Night






Later that evening, Snips and Snails made their way through one section of the Everfree. Wanting to prove that Trixie is the best unicorn in Equestria, the two planned to find an ursa major and lure it back to Ponyville, with the motive to have her vanquish it. The eventually find a large cave and enter it.

The two go in far enough where it was pitch black and unable to see a thing. Snips groans.

"Oh, how we gonna find an ursa major when I can't even see my own hoof in front of my face?" He asked.

"Hold on." Snails grunts as he tries to light his horn for the two to see.

It works, but what the two didn't expect to find was a large, blue bear in a slumber, eventually stirring awake from the light.

"Oh, heh. That's better." Snips remarked.

The two then hear the growl from the ursa, as the two look up, saw how irritated it was for being woken up.

The two colts scream in horror as the large bear roars at them, causing the two to flee out of the cave, with the ursa trudging after them.

The two eventually made it back to the outskirts of town, where Spike was going for a walk after his argument with Twilight, hearing the two scream.

"Hey! Where are you two going?" Spike yelled to them, but they just run past him.

"Can't talk now!" Snips panted.

"We've got a major problem!" Snails added.

"Yeah, an ursa major, to be exact!" Snips added, as the three hear a roar.

Spike sees the ursa major come out of the thicket. His eyes bugged out and ran after Snips and Snails.

"TRIXIE!!!" Snips and Snails screamed.

"TWILIGHT!!!" Spike screamed as he ran back to the library.

Snips and Snails reach Trixie's wagon and start banging on the door in desperation.

"Trixie! You have to wake up! Hurry!!" Both colts scream over each other in mingled speech.

Trixie opened the top half of her door, half asleep.

"Trixie thought she said the Great and Powerful Trixie did not want to be disturbed!" She bellowed in anger.

Both colts nervously chuckled.

"We— We have a— a tiny problem." Snips said.

"Actually, it's a big problem." Snails added.

Trixie just scoffs, annoyed by the two.

"What is so important that you cannot wait until morning to disturb Trixie?" She asked.

They then hear a roar nearby, which now fully alerted Trixie, as the three look down the street as the ursa major comes out and roars again.

All three screamed as they made a run for it, with the ursa major, smashing down on Trixie wagon with it's large paw, roaring loudly. At this point, most of Ponyville were woken up by the noise and saw the ursa and began to freak out and fear.

Silver was just walking back to his house, after doing a nightly stroll, when he heard the roar. He looked back toward town and started making a made gallop back.

Back at the library, Spike bursts into the door, panting, seeing Twilight still reading the same book.

"Twilight! You've gotta come! Quick!" Spike pleaded, while catching his breath.

Twilight sighed.

"I already told you, Spike, I don't wanna show up Trixie!" Twilight said in an annoyed tone.

Spike shook his head.

"No, you don't understand, it's—" Spike began but was cut-off by the roar, which the two heard.

Twilight then looked at Spike, questioningly and concerned.

"Uh, is that what I think it is?" She asked.

Spike only replied with one word.

Majorly..."

Back outside, Trixie, Snips and Snails were backing away as the ursa slowly stops in front of the three, growling.

"Great and Powerful Trixie, you've got to vanquish the ursa!" Snips said in both excitement and worry.

"Yeah, vanquish so we can watch." Snails added.

"It took a lot of trouble to get that thing here." Snips added, which caused Trixie's jaw to drop and stared at the two.

"Wait, you brought this here?" Trixie gasped. "Are you out of your little pony minds?!"

The two colts weren't having any of it.

"But, you're the Great and Powerful Trixie!" Snips said.

"Yeah, remember? You defeated an ursa major!" Snails added.

They backed away when it roared at them again. Trixie gulps as slowly approached the large creature.

"Uh, okay... Stay back...!" She said with hesitation as her horn glowed.

She used the snake charmer spell she used earlier to hog tie Applejack, by tying the rope around the ursa's claws.

"Heh. Piece of cake." Trixie boasted weakly.

The bear looked, and gave a deadpan look as it simply moved its claws apart and snapped the rope off freeing its claws.

Snips and Snails just gave Trixie a questioning look.

"Aw, come on, Trixie!" Snips yelled.

"Yeah, stop goofin' around and vanquish it, eh?" Snails added.

Trixie began sweating under the pressure, and gulped.

She then brought the rain cloud she used on Rainbow Dash earlier, and rather than a large and loud thunderbolt, it just did a small spark that didn't do a thing to the ursa, but annoy it further.

"Well that was a dud." Snails remarked, looking unimpressed.

"Yeah, pfft, come on! Where's all the cool explosions and smoke and stuff like earlier? You know." Snips added with the same unimpressed tone.

It was then the rain cloud produced a large crackle, which just made the ursa angrier than before.

"Uh-oh..." Trixie uttered.

The ursa roars loudly, causing every nearby pony who witness this happen, to cry in fear and scream. It then prepares to raise its claws up, having lost its patience, and going to just attack Trixie and the two colts, who all huddle in fear.

"Oh no you don't!!" A male voice screamed out.

The ponies see Silver, leap out, with his Mythril Sword in mouth, and was able to block the ursa's swipe, his blade connecting with the creature's claws, causing it to recoil back. Silver lands before the three.

"You three alright?" Silver asked, not looking back, his eyes on the large bear.

The three ponies just stared in awe.

"Y-yes. T-thank you Silver..." Trixie stuttered out.

"You can thank me later, for now you three need to get away from here..." Silver replied.

The three ponies didn't give him a second quarter and ran back with the crowd.

The ursa now had its attention on Silver, as it growls at him and roars in his face. Silver, didn't even flinch.

"...You are just cranky is all... I'll just have to wear you down." Silver muttered, as the ursa lunged at the stallion, causing him to leap out of the way. And started to direct it away from the crowd.

It was then Twilight arrived, seeing the ursa major and Silver trying to keep its attention on him. She gasped as she sees Silver getting flung across the town center and hitting a tree.

"Ow... gonna feel that in the morning..." Silver said as he got back on his hooves and charged back at the ursa.

"What is going on here?" Twilight asked, as she watched Silver.

"We brought an ursa to town!" Snips answered.

All the ponies gasped and stared at the colts.

"You did WHAT?!" Twilight screamed.

"Don't worry, that pony is just going to weaken it so that the Great and Powerful Trixie can vanquish it!" Snails replied, grinning.

"...I can't." Trixie spoke softly.

Snips and Snails just gaped at her.

"What?!"

"I can't vanquish it. I never did. I only said that I vanquished an ursa major so that it make me look good!" She admitted.

"You made it up?!" Snips and Snails asked in shock.

They look as the ursa roared, and they can see that Silver is beginning to show his signs of wear.

"W-well... least I can add... training against an ursa on the list of things I need to work on..." He joked to himself, as he blocks the ursa's slash, locking his blade and its claw and holding his ground.

"Twilight! You have to do something, or Silver is gonna get killed!" Spike pleaded.

Twilight just looked on in worry. She was going to lose her old friend if she didn't think of something. She knew she had no choice but to use her magic.

She sighed deeply, as her horn began emitting a charge, a large one. She starts grunting, as the wind began to blow through the town, causing some cattails to emit what sounded like a lullaby. The song slowly made its way toward the ursa as it almost finishes the job, and the music enters its ears, causing it to growl, and then grunt, before finally backing away and looking sleepy.

Silver was able to get stable footing as he stood back up, watching Twilight, as well as everyone in the crowd watched in amazement.

"Woah..." Silver muttered.

"Nice use of number sixteen." Spike said with a grin.

She then levitates a large water tower, as it travels through a nearby barn, as the sound of moos and milk being made is heard, and the water tower comes out.

A cow that was in the barn just looked on in confusion.

"Golly, dont'cha know?" The cow asked.

"That's new." Spike said.

Soon the tower made its way toward the ursa, looking like a large bottle, and soon she gave it to the sleepy ursa and it began suckling on it and then ends up getting levitated back to the Everfree Forest to it's cave, now sound asleep.

Twilight then stops and nearly collapses on the ground, exhausted. The crowd began cheering, as Twilight's friends surround her, smiling brightly.

"Unbelievable!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

"Heavens to Betsy! We knew you had ability, but not that much!" Applejack said, amazed.

Twilight then looks at her three friends, frowning.

"Please... please don't hate me." She whimpered.

Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Rarity look at each other, confused.

"Hate you?" They asked.

"Why, whatever do you mean darling?" Rarity asked tilting her head.

"Well, I know how much you all hated Trixie's showing off with her magic tricks, and I just thought--" Twilight began, but was interrupted by Rainbow Dash.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa. Magic's got nothing to do with it. Trixie's just a loudmouth."

The girls nod their heads in agreement.

"Most unpleasant." Rarity added.

"All hat and no cattle." Applejack added as well.

These comments, caused Trixie to frown, her ears snapping to the sides of her head, looking away. She likely did deserve that.

Silver then tiredly approaches the group.

"Jeez Silver, never thought you'd go hoof-to-hoof with an ursa major!" Rainbow said, as she helped support the stallion.

"Well... I'm just doing what I said I do." Silver replied in a pant, and in pain.

"Oh I'm gonna have a fun time waking up tomorrow..." He added.

"Silver! You could've been killed! Don't you ever worry us like that again!" Twilight scolded, as she goes and hugged him.

"I don't want my old friend that I just rekindled with to leave us like that..." She whispered, as Silver hugged her back.

"Sorry Twilight but... I just had to step in and save those three." Silver said, motioning his head to Trixie, Snips and Snails.

"Well regardless..." Applejack stepped in, as she looked at Twilight.

"Your magic is a part of who you are, sugarcube, and we like who you are. We're proud to have such a powerful, talented unicorn as our friend." She said with a soft smile.

"Y-you are?" Twilight asked, stunned

They each nod their heads.

Twilight smiled and hugged her friends tightly.

"Thank you girls..."

"So Twilight, how did you know what do against that ursa major?" Spike asked.

Twilight giggled.

"That's what I was doing when you came looking for me. I was so intrigued by Trixie's bragging that I was compelled to do a little reading up on them." She replied.

"So it is possible to vanquish an ursa major all by yourself?" Spike asked with a skeptical look.

"Ooh, if that was what an ursa major looked like. But that was not the case, as that was actually a baby, an ursa minor." Silver interjected.

The group gasped, Trixie was more shocked.

"That was just a baby?" Trixie asked in disbelief.

Twilight nods, before she gave a stern frown.

"And it wasn't rampaging. It was just cranky because somepony woke it up..." Twilight said, looking at Snips and Snails.

The crowd all glared down at the two colts, who just looked ashamed.

"Well, if that was an ursa minor, then what's an ursa major like?" Spike asked.

Silver and Twilight look at each other, and both of them though the same thing. In the cave which the ursa minor was sent back two, a large, towering purple ursa major was sitting, cradling her cub as it slept peacefully, suckling the water tank filled with milk quietly, and looking content.

"Spike... there are some things in this world better off not knowing. This is one of them." Silver added, chuckling.

Trixie then approached the group.

"Tr-I just wanted to say something to you, Twilight Sparkle." Trixie said, not using her name in third person.

The group looks at her, questioningly.

"You all have every right to hate me... ever since I came to Ponyville, I did nothing but cause trouble for you and your friends. I was just focused with my dream to being the best showmare in Equestria, that I just lost myself in it all... claiming I could be better than anypony. And after meeting Silver this morning, hearing a bit about himself and how he was the first pony that welcomed me to town, and then I ended up humiliating your friends and listening what he told me about how I been going at this the wrong way... it was a reality check that I needed to come back too..." Trixie explained.

She looks at Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Rarity.

"I know you likely won't forgive me yet, but I just wanted to say... I-I'm sorry..." She said looking away.

The three blinked and stared at each other.

"Twilight... I'll admit this. You are a more talented pony than me, as you proved stopping that ursa minor. I know now that word will spread about this, and likely now I'll be labeled as a joke and probably won't see my shows... But it is what I deserve for being such a loudmouth!" She exclaimed.

She looks at Silver.

"And you almost got killed trying to protect me and those colts. I know you probably don't want to give me another chance after what happened today, but... thank you for saving us..." Trixie said, looking as sincere as she possibly could.

Silver took a moment before he smiled.

"Trixie, I meant what I said earlier that we couldn't be friends because of your boastful nature and how you embarrassed my friends the way you did, but I also meant that you do have potential to be a great unicorn. You were just too hung up in your idea of fame and recognition. I'll admit: I knew that story you said about vanquishing an ursa major was just bull, because if it did happen then we'd probably all know who you were and that sort of accomplishment would be heard all over Equestria." Silver said, placing a hoof on her shoulder.

"However... I'm also a pony that is willing to give another the benefit of the doubt, and I'm willing to give you a second chance. I think you are a bright young mare unicorn. We are both the same: we are aspiring to become something we dream of. You are an aspiring traveling magician, and I'm an aspiring guardian pony. We have to overcome a lot of hurdles and obstacles to fulfill our dream, and I know you can fulfill yours." He added.

Trixie just gave a soft smile.

"So does that mean... you can be Trixie's friend...?" She asked, going back into third person.

Silver chuckles.

"If you are willing to change your ways for the better, then yes. I'll be your friend." Silver replied.

"We'll all be your friend, Trixie." Twilight spoke up, as she placed her hoof on her shoulder.

"I can agree with Silver that you do have potential in magic, Trixie. With enough practice, you can probably achieve more feats in your shows. I'd be willing to help you learn some tricks if you ever want to. Be nice to practice with another mare with a talent in magic." Twilight giggled.

Trixie gave a light grin.

"Heh.. yeah. Trixie would likely like that." 

"Well, I guess we can forgive you for what you did. I have to admit: some of the stuff you did to us, while were cruel, were pretty good." Rainbow said, nonchalant.

"Yeah sugarcube. Ah wouldn't be the Element of Honesty, if ah didn't say that rope trick you did... was pretty amazin'. Though, ah would've been better off without being hog tied..." Applejack said, rubbing the back of her neck.

"What you did to my mane Trixie... well it might take time to forgive you for that. But, if my friends are willing to give you a second chance, then... I suppose we could work something out. Plus, your cape and hat, they certainly do make you dazzle a bit more, but I could perhaps make them even more awe-inspiring!" Rarity said.

Trixie just looked at them.

"Trixie is glad... you least appreciate her talents. Well, thinking about it now, you three did pretty well. Applejack for her rodeo skills, Rainbow for creating a mini rainbow by using her speed, and Rarity who did make a rather elegant dress using my stage curtains--" She stopped, and sighed.

"...My stage and wagon." She looked at the wreckage.

"That reminds me..." Twilight said as she looked down at Snips and Snails, who just looked down.

"Heh... we're really sorry for waking up that ursa minor..." Snips said sadly.

"We just wanted to see some awesome magic. Snails added, glumly.

"And we are sorry about your wagon Trixie..." Snips said, looking at Trixie, who simply nods, still upset.

Both colts bowed down before Twilight.

"We deserve whatever punishment you give us." Snails said.

Twilight just gave a stern stare, as she nods.

"Well, for starters you two can clean up this mess. And... what do you think Spike? Should I give them number 25?" She asked, giving a smirk.

Spike grinned.

"Oh yeah! And I think I deserve it too!" Spike laughed.

Both colts looked confused.

"Hmm, I think your right." Twilight giggled as her horn glowed, and suddenly, three mustaches appeared on Snips, Snails, and Spike.

They looked at them, and grinned contently.

"Sweeeet." All three of them said.

They all chuckled as everypony began to disperse and head back home for the night. Twilight told the Snips and Snails that they will begin cleaning up the mess the ursa minor left the next morning, which they agreed and went home. The two colts knew they were in even deeper trouble when they saw each of their parents.

The girls all decided to head home as well, after this eventful evening. Trixie, however, looked down.

"Need a place to stay for the night Trixie?" Silver asked as he walks by her.

"Trixie doesn't know what she will do now. She was forgiven, but my wagon was also my home... I don't have a lot of bits since most of them went into the wagon alone..." Trixie sighed.

"Well, come with me. You can spend the night at my house outside of town. It is better than having to leave at this time. There is something I want to give you as well." Silver said as he trots past her, with Trixie looking at him.

"Huh? You'd be willing to let Trixie in your home?" She asked.

"Hey, we're friends now. I can't just leave you out here by yourself. Just follow me." Silver said as Trixie followed close behind him.






Silver's House - Ponyville
Night






The came upon the lone house near the Everfree Forest. Trixie was astonished that he bought a house this close to the Everfree Forest, knowing that is where the ursa minor, and like it's mother, reside. He assured her that creatures in the Everfree almost never wander outside of the place, which is why this house is still standing.

"Trixie must say... despite living near one of the most dangerous places in Equestria, this is a humble little abode..." Trixie said as she looked around.

"Yeah, I just felt as if the forest called me and told me to get this house so I'm near it. It's far out of town but it is more quiet, and more private. Plus, I feel at peace here, as strange as this is." Silver said, placing his Mythril Sword against the wall.

"Well, I guess you want to turn back in for the night. I can sleep on the couch, and you can have my bed." Silver said.

"W-what? No, no, no! Trixie is just a guest in your home. It wouldn't be right for her to sleep in your bed. I can just take the couch..." Trixie insisted.

"It's alright, I slept on a bed made of stone for the past five years, a couch is a step up from that. Besides, you are a mare that needs her beauty sleep, and you had a rough day as it was. Just get some shut eye." Silver said as he took his cloak off, showing that he was a moderately built stallion.

Trixie blushed at his appearance.

"W-well, if you insist then... T-Trixie bids you a good night!" She stuttered as she goes up to the bedroom and closed the door.

He just chuckles, as he lays on the couch.

"Ow, forgot about my back... eh well."

With that, he turned the lights out and drifted off to sleep.






Golden Oak Library - Ponyville
Night









Dear Princess Celestia,

I have learned a very valuable lesson about friendship: I was so afraid of being thought of as a show-off that I was hiding a part of who I am. My friends helped me realize that it's okay to be proud of your talents, and there are times when it's appropriate to show them off... Especially when you're standing up for your friends. 





She puts her quill down, as she goes over to Spike, who is still admiring his mustache.

"So, you finally admit that you're the most talented unicorn in all of Ponyville?" Spike asked with a smirk, fiddling with one end of his mustache.

Twilight just nods.

"Well, yeah, but it's nothing to brag about. So, uh, how did it go with Rarity?" Twilight replied with a question.

Spike just frowned and shrugged.

"Eh, she didn't go for the mustache." He replied.

She giggled.

"You know, Spike, that mustache has nothing to do with who you really are. Maybe you should just try being yourself." Twilight said with a soft smile.

Spike took a moment to process this, before another idea came to mind.

"Or... Maybe the mustache wasn't enough. Maybe if I had a mustache and a beard?" Spike grinned brightly.

Twilight just gave an exasperated sigh.

"Ugh! Not this again." She groaned.

"Okay, imagine me with a nice, long, Fu Manchu type beard. Or maybe a goatee. Oh, no, a soul patch right on my chin!" Spike spouts out, leaving Twilight to stand there before turning around, and heading upstairs to bed, not wanting to deal with this tonight.






Silver's House - Ponyville
Morning






The following morning, Silver made both Trixie and himself breakfast, before Trixie needed to leave back onto the road.

"Well, Trixie wanted to say that she is thankful for your hospitality, SIlver." Trixie said dabbing a napkin around her mouth.

"Heh, well should you ever need a helping hoof or somepony to talk to, my door is always open. So, where are you going to be going now?" Silver asked as he takes the plates to the sink.

"For now, Trixie shall be returning to Baltimare. She needs to figure out how to come up with the bits needed for a new wagon and stage." Trixie replied.

"Hmm... well considering you can't be a traveling magician without a stage and a place to sleep for the night, that would be a very important place to start." Silver said, washing the dishes.

"Mmm, true. But Trixie doesn't know how she could earn the bits needed though... After what happened yesterday, if word didn't spread out about the whole thing, it might be difficult to find a place to perform." The stagemare mused.

He smiled as he left the kitchen. A few moments later, he comes back, and sets down a large coin purse.

"There. Consider this not only a gift... but also an investment." Silver said, as Trixie's eyes widened and opened the purse. Her jaw almost hit the table.

"This is... You would do... I-I can't accept all this!" Trixie stuttered, seeing that there was almost 6500 bits in the bag.

"It's alright. I have a lot more wealth than I appear to have. This isn't even half of what I have saved away. Please, take it. Use it to buy a new and better wagon. And then, take a bit of time to travel to other cities and see other magician ponies perform." He said with a soft grin.

"What?" Trixie asked, raising a brow.

"You want to start over right? It is only natural that you go and see other talented showponies and get some ideas off of, and try to adapt them to your own skills in magic. Also consider taking Twilight's advice and try to hone your natural magic skills, as it could help you in the long run when you do performances." Silver replied.

"Just promise me one thing: promise that you will fulfill your dream. Be the best showmare Equestria could look upon for an experience, and just wow the audience. Come back to Ponyville when you feel the time is right, and put on a real show that will be remembered as something that the Great and Powerful Trixie could leave behind..." Silver placed a hoof on her shoulder.

"Can you do that for me?" He asked.

Trixie was just overwhelmed. She never though she meet a pony that would put so much belief in her, so much faith, and so much support. Her eyes began to water as she hugs him.

"...I-I'll try. Thank you Silver Guardian, for believing me... I promise, that I will make a comeback, living up to the title as the Great and Powerful Trixie!" She said with confidence.

"You do your best in fulfilling your dreams to, Silver. You saved my life last night, despite what you told me yesterday about the kind of mare I was, and you gave me a second look on my life, and I swear to Celestia's sun, The Great and Powerful Trixie will not let you or anypony down!"

Silver nods, grinning brightly.

"Until we meet again, Oh Great and Powerful Trixie." Silver said, shaking her hoof.

Trixie smirked and shook it back.

"Like wise, Oh Humble and Wise Silver Guardian..."
> Interlude - Transpiring Events
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It has been almost a month since the incident involving the ursa minor attacking Ponyville and Trixie leaving to start over. During that time, Silver and his friends have been busy with tasks that came to them when they weren't busy with their own lives. One week, they left for the mountains and try to reason with a dragon that was sleeping there to move to another place since its smoke would do harm to Equestria's environment, ending with Fluttershy conquering her fears and standing up to the dragon after it attacked her friends in retaliation when Rainbow Dash kicked it in the nose.

It was here that the girls learned that the dragon recalled seeing Silver, when he was still smaller, having entered into the Dragon Lands requesting to spar with one of the younger drakes. Most of them didn't seem to take him seriously, since how often does an adolescent colt just march into the land of dragons and ask to do battle with him as a means of training? It was when one younger dragon, a small blue dragoness, obliged to his request and the two went at it. Considering that it was the first time Silver was going against a dragon and was at a disadvantage, having only been training solo for the first month in the Badlands, he lost the match. Despite this, he acknowledged the strength of the female drake and said it was rather fun to spar that way and asked to do it again when they got stronger, to which she agreed.

The fact a young pony was able to hold his own against a dragon, who even as runts are still as strong as a fully grown earth pony, was more impressive. Silver made it a thing to visit the place often and spar against the dragoness, whom introduced herself as Ember, and both had their fair share of winning and losing. About a year in, Ember forged the blade Silver now possesses as a sign of trust and proof of his own strength as a fighter. Twilight was mostly intrigued over the fact that dragons were as good of smithing as griffons were, and possibly being even better as dragons had access to more resources around the volcanic landscape and find metals that are otherwise rare in Equestria and outside.

Upon returning to Ponyville, Twilight reported to Princess Celestia via letter that the mission was a success and learned another lesson in friendship...




Dear Princess Celestia,

I am happy to report that the dragon has departed our fair country, and that it was my good friend, Fluttershy, who convinced him to go. This adventure has taught me to never lose faith in your friends. They can be an amazing source of strength, and can help you overcome even your greatest fears.

Always your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle 




The following week, a large storm was scheduled for Ponyville one day and Applejack and Rarity were helping clean up a bit of the park before the storm began. Most of the time, the two ended up arguing with Rarity not wanting to get dirty and leaving more of a mess when Applejack asked to get some branches moved. Needless to say, the rain came and the two needed to seek shelter, and end up with Twilight at the library. Mentioning that Spike was away in Canterlot for royal business, she was home alone for the evening and then suggested they have a slumber party, as she never experienced one before. Not wanting to spend the whole night with each other and unable to leave as the storm worsened, Applejack and Rarity were left with little choice but to stay.

The slumber party was nearly ruined as the two wouldn't stop bickering, but it all changed when a large tree crashed into the Twilight's bedroom window from the strong winds. The two decided to put aside their differences and help Twilight get the tree out by working together. Apologizing to each other and setting their differences aside, the three mares decide to make the most of it and had fun with the slumber party as the next day came, bringing a sunny day with it.

Twilight wrote to Celestia the night after Applejack and Rarity made up, reflecting what she learned from this experience.





It's hard to believe that two ponies who seem to have so little in common could ever get along. But I found out that if you embrace each other's differences, you just might be surprised to discover a way to be friends after all. 





Another problem was resolved when everyone in Ponyville hid in fear from a zebra named Zecora, who often came to town, thinking she was an evil enchantress as she resided in the Everfree Forest. It all came down to Applejack's younger sister, Apple Bloom, following the zebra to the Everfree and wanting to meet and see if she was at all bad. Unfortunately, the girls noticed she was missing and realized she was going after Zecora and quickly went after her. Stopping in a small grove of blue flowers, Zecora warns them about what they were doing while speaking in an odd speech pattern, but the ponies tell her off, ignoring her warnings and leave the forest afterwards with Apple Bloom in tow.

The next day the group, safe for Apple Bloom, all looked as though they were cursed: Applejack was now tiny, Pinkie Pie was unable to speak as her tongue appeared to be stuck out of her mouth and had blue dots all over them, Rarity's mane, coat, and tail all looked shaggy, Rainbow Dash's wings were upside down and was unable to fly properly, crashing into every thing when she did fly, Fluttershy seemed normal at first, until she started talking and her voice sounded like a deep stallion's voice, and Twilight's horn was floppy and unable to use magic.

Everyone, except for Apple Bloom, argue about the fact Zecora did curse them, while Twilight disagrees saying that curses weren't real and that there is likely a rational explanation for this. But not listening, the girls figured they go and confront Zecora personally and force her to fix them, while Apple Bloom decides to go and see if she can make things right, as she felt it was all her fault for them being like this. She leaves, but Applejack sneaks into her tail as she leaves, knowing well she is likely going back to the forest.

In the end, it turned out to be a huge misunderstanding, especially since they confused the cauldron that Zecora was using to eat Apple Bloom, was in fact the cure to fix the aliment the six ponies were suffering and the fact Apple Bloom came into Zecora's hut with the other ingredients she was sent to grab for the cure. What's more, Silver wandered in unexpectedly and just looks at the mess the girls made and asked what happened while he was out. He then explained that he knew Zecora for awhile as he ran into her while training in the Everfree alone, much to the surprise and horror of the girls. He often went to deeper parts of the Everfree Zecora did not venture to as they were more hostile.

After learning what happened to the girls and why exactly they tried to stop Zecora from doing what she was doing, him, Apple Bloom, and Zecora laughed it up. Silver then explains the reason they are like this is because it wasn't a curse, it was because they were suffering the side-effects of poison joke, a blue flower that when in contact would play a small joke the victim. When they thought she was cursing them with her language, it was just Zecora talking in the speech of olden times of her home land, which was basically speaking in rhymes.

Feeling ashamed for accusing her of being evil, the girls decide to help by trying to make another batch of the remedy, which Zecora agreed to do and forgives them for their actions, but Apple Bloom explains that when she goes to Ponyville to get the herbs she needs, the shops all close mysteriously. By returning to Ponyville together, ponies freak out when they see the group with Zecora, thinking she cursed them, but Twilight goes and explains what is going on.

Soon after, at the Ponyville Spa, Zecora uses the large hot tub as a means for the girls to use and be cured of the poison joke, as well feel refreshed from the experience.

Twilight learns that it is best not to judge a book by its cover, as described in her letter to Celestia.





My friends and I all learned an important lesson this week: Never judge a book by its cover. Someone may look unusual, or funny, or scary. But you have to look past that and learn who they are inside. Real friends don't care what your "cover" is; it's the "contents" of a pony that count. And a good friend, like a good book, is something that will last forever. 





One would think that it would get peaceful in Ponyville, but ever since Twilight and her friends became the next chosen bearers of the Elements of Harmony, crazy things just seem to hit the small town like a hurricane. In the end though, the problem gets resolved one way or another. 

Fluttershy brought home a bunch of creatures from the Everfree Forest known as parasprites. While harmless, and rather adorable looking, they had a vicious appetite and would eat every bit of food they can find, and eventually rapidly multiple. The girls tried many attempts to get the little pest back to the forest as Princess Celestia was on her way to visit the town, but all seemed to become fruitless: Applejack used her lasso and tied them all down and the group proceeded to roll the large ball of sprites back to the forest, only to find that Fluttershy kept one in her cottage, which proceeded to multiple rapidly and burst out of her front door. She claimed it was because she couldn't help herself, finding the creatures too cute.

Rainbow Dash tried to use a tornado to round them up and suck them in, only for a pair of cymbals that Pinkie had got caught in the tornado and messed up Dash's concentration, freeing the parasprites. The girls ignored Pinkie's reasoning why she was gathering instruments since they thought she was being random, and Twilight decided to cast a spell that removed the parasprites instinct from eating anything that was food. Instead, they ate anything that wasn't food: streetlamps, signs, parts of houses, Rarity's dresses, everything.

Just when Twilight was going to make a second, fake Ponyville to trick Celestia as she nearly approaches, Pinkie starts acting as a one-pony band and attracts the parasprites with the music she played with all the instruments at once, leading them out of the town and back to the Everfree. Celestia touches down and sees how the creatures hopped along with Pinkie's music and assumed they were holding a small parade in her honor. She breaks the news that she has to skip her visit of Ponyville as there has been an infestation of 'incredibly bothersome creatures' in Fillydephia and has to go resolve it.

Before she left, Twilight shared her friendship lesson with the monarch, saying that sometimes the solution to ones' problems can come from where you least expect it. It's a good idea to stop and listen to your friends' opinions and perspectives... Even when they don't always seem to make sense.

Proud of her student's answer, she takes off to Fillydephia. The girls ponder what she meant when there was an infestation, until it was clear the town was also having problems with parasprites. Pinkie opted to go help, but Twilight denied her and said the princess could handle it. They all apologized to Pinkie for not listening to her and her reasoning behind gather the instruments and were glad everything turned out alright in the end... Aside from the fact Ponyville was in ruins and half eaten.

While this was all going on, Silver was at home blissfully unaware of what happened in town as he wanted to stay in and mediate, considering all that was going on in town the past few weeks and just wanted a break from it. Though he did ponder if he was hearing some sort of parade going on in town, but shrugged it off. Funny how none of the girls even questioned where Silver was the whole time, but considering that they had their hooves full trying to get rid of the pests from the forest, it flew over their heads.

With only a month until fall, ponies were eager to begin transition for the season. Apple Bloom was learning about cutie marks and how it reflects a ponies' special talent. She of course thinks about the fact she still hasn't earn her's yet while most of the colts and fillies in her class have. It gets worse when Diamond Tiara and her friend Silver Spoon, end up making fun of Apple Bloom, and another pony named Twist, for not having their cutie marks and dubbing them as 'blank flanks' while also announcing that she is going to be thrown her cutie-ceañera, a party that celebrates a young filly or colt's receiving their cutie marks, that weekend at Sugar-Cube Corner and even invited Apple Bloom to her party, at the expense of continuing to rub it in her face.

Apple Bloom tries to find ways to earn her cutie mark quickly, while most ponies namely Applejack and Twilight say that she has to give it time before she earns her cutie mark with the latter trying to use magic to make a cutie mark appear, but fails as it only appeared for a fraction of a second, with Twilight proving that not even magic can make a cutie mark appear by force. With little choice, she attends the party and ends up get picked on again by Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, but gets told off when two other fillies come out and show they also didn't have a cutie mark as well and sided with Apple Bloom, saying that they didn't need a cutie mark and that fact Apple Bloom is full of potential and could become anything.

The two fillies introduce themselves as Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, who was the younger sister of Rarity. The three sit together and decided to form a secret club dedicated to the sole purpose of trying to find their special talent and ultimately get their cutie marks, agreeing on calling it 'The Cutie Mark Crusaders', and becoming best friends. Twilight watches and admires the three fillies, seeing they are very lucky for those who have yet to discover who they are, and sends her friendship report to Celestia on what she learned from witnessing this experience, which makes her reflect on the day she and Luna earned their cutie marks.




I am happy to report that one of your youngest subjects has learned a valuable lesson about friendship. Sometimes, the thing you think will cause you to lose friends and feel left out can actually be the thing that helps you make your closest friends and realize how special you are. 




Following month, Rainbow Dash and Applejack decided to throw an Iron Pony competition to see which one of them were the most athletic pony in Ponyville. Both mares beat each other in one event to the other, where they draw before the final event, which was the annual Running of the Leaves, a tradition in Ponyville where ponies ran through the Whitewood Forest, and cleared the leaves from the trees by vibrating the earth with their hooves as they ran. Twilight and Silver both decided to join, alongside several other ponies who were there for the fun, as was Twilight and Silver. Both Applejack and Dash humor Twilight, considering she only learned about this from books and Dash nicknaming her an 'egghead'.

As the running commenced, Applejack and Dash did all they could to try to outdo one another in the race, often tripping on a rock or a tree stump, often blaming one another for tripping them, with Twilight explaining that they should instead pay attention and not blame the other for their own recklessness. It ends with Applejack and Dash both tying for last place as the former tried to prevent the latter from flying for the finish and tackling her down before she got far. Both were shocked when they realized Twilight was able to beat them both for fifth place, all by going at her own pace since the two were just horsing about. Because of this, Applejack admits that Twilight was right and that their behavior was terrible.

Celestia, having overseen the entire event and surprising both Applejack and Rainbow, comes over to the group explaining that they learned a very important lesson, as well as saying fall is her favorite season and wished to come see the Running of the Leaves.

The solar monarch says that anyone could be be swept up by the excitement of competition, with Twilight reminding them that friendship was always more important than competition.

Celestia also explains because of the two tricking each other during their race, many trees still had leaves in them. Taking the hint, Applejack and Rainbow decide to go for another run as friends and help take care of the other trees that were missed together.

After they darted off, Silver came over as they watched the two ponies go and smirked, asking if they should know who actually won first place. Twilight just laughs it off, saying that it would probably be for the best if they just learn about it later. Silver just smiled, as he turns around, showing he had a first place medal around his neck, hidden under his cloak.

As quickly as fall passed, winter came by just as quickly. Hearth's Warming Eve had come and gone and a new year has begun. And the story continues as the day came for Ponyville's biggest tradition since the founding of the small town: Winter Wrap Up.
> Chapter 5 - Winter Wrap Up
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------





Golden Oak Library - Ponyville
Early Morning




Day before Spring






Three months of winter has passed, the new year has begun recently, but like most things in life it has to come to an end. Today was a special day for those in Ponyville, as it marks the final day of winter before the coming of spring the next day. It is early in the morning, rather chilly, Celestia hasn't raised the sun as of yet. Both Spike and Twilight were asleep in their beds, with Spike snoring peacefully.

Suddenly, as if an internal alarm clock goes off, Twilight wakes right up with a happy sounding gasp, as she gets out of bed excited.

"Spike, wake up. Wake up, wake up, it's Winter Wrap Up day!" She exclaimed while giving a soft nuzzle on Spike's cheek and smiling brightly at the baby dragon.

Spike stirs awake, half asleep as he looks tiredly at Twilight.

"Huh? Mommy?" Spike uttered.

"Winter Wrap Up!" Twilight replied, passing an annoyed look at the baby dragon, and zips off the bed.

Spike groans and falls back to sleep.

"You're not my mommy."

Twilight rushes over and turns the lights on, as she goes and gets things straightened up, fixing a nearby picture frame on the wall.

"Spike, the first day of spring is tomorrow, so everypony in Ponyville needs to clean up winter. Now help me get ready." She explained, as she hops into her yellow boots.

"Clean up winter...?" Spike asks from under his blanket as he sits up.

"Who cleans up winter? Don't they just use magic to change the seasons like they do in Canterlot?" He asked, looking down at Twilight, who was trying to get her saddle on her back.

"No Spike, Ponyville was started by Earth ponies, so for hundreds of years they've never used magic to clean up winter. It's traditional." Twilight happily explained to Spike as she got the saddle on.

Only for it to come right off and hit the floor, leaving Twilight to sigh. Spike simply scoffs at the very notion of no magic being used to change winter.

"It's ridiculous. No magic... Fuh." He grumbled as he ends up trying to fall back to sleep under his covers.

Twilight ignored him, as she got her saddle back on, tightening it so it would stay on. She then grabs her pink striped scarf off its hanger and proceeds to grab her checklist that was resting on the wall.

"Okay, let's see: scarf, check; saddle, check; boots, check; Spike refusing to get up and going back to sleep..." She looked up and seeing him doing just that.

"...Check." She finished as she checked it off the list.

"It's a good thing I'm so organized, I'm ready." She then heads to the door and opens it up, and happily tells the world she was ready.

"Bright and early!" Twilight then looks around and saw that it wasn't even light out yet and still night as the crickets chirped. She then sheepishly chuckles.

"Oh... maybe a little too early." She said to herself, looking a bit embarrassed.






Silver's House - Ponyville Outskirts
Half an hour later






Silver has been awake for nearly half an hour. He decided to get his morning routines done before heading to town to help with Winter Wrap Up. Having grown up in Canterlot, he was only familiar with magic being used to change the season from winter to spring, but during his studies as a colt he read up on some historical events in several parts of Equestria with Winter Wrap Up being one of them.

It fascinated him that ever since the founding of Ponyville, earth ponies would deal with cleaning up winter in a very literal sense just in time for spring. A tradition, even after hundreds of years and as unicorns settled down in Ponyville, magic hasn't been used and had to be done manually. He knew that everyone in town would be doing their part in getting rid of the snow, waking the animals in hibernation and clear the skies for the sun to melt the snow, as well as prepare for the spring harvest.

"Okay, doing my morning run, come back for five minute break, and then break onto a full gallop to town to get my vest to help out the other earth ponies with plowing the fields for the harvest and removing other excess snow in different parts when needed." Silver said as he listed off his tasks in his mind.

"At least I can get a nice warm-up and the blood pumping for when the fun begins later in the morning... I know I should see this as something fun and helping another pony out, it would make good training for the body considering the amount of labor that will be involved..." He added before grabbing his cloak, and while not necessary, his Mythril Sword, sliding it into its scabbard and fastening it on its loop belt that hung on his side. 

While it seemed unorthodox, he figured he could use it to help break away some ice that might be a bit harder to get rid of or hardened snow. Since he wasn't using it as a weapon, it would act as his personal tool and having something made of mythril would greatly helped if the regular tools that most ponies will be using won't cut it, as it is a strong metal and won't rust easily.

With that, having a hearty breakfast that was surely going to keep him going until the end of the day, he heads out the door, closing it and began his morning run down the road toward town.






Ponyville Town Center
An hour later






An hour passed and the sky was slowly beginning to light up, as the moon began its descent to make way for the sun. Silver arrives in town, already seeing several ponies out and getting prepared. Operations to commence Winter Wrap Up would begin at 7 AM exact, so it would give everyone enough time to arrive at the town center, receive their vests and discuss their course of action.

"Rarity! Morning!" Silver called out as she approached the white mare, donning a tan vest, who gives him a welcomed smile and waves.

"Good morning, Silver dear! You appear to be all ready for the day.~" Rarity replied.

He nods with a soft smile.

"You know it. At this point I'm used to it, though I been up since five doing my normal morning routines. Figured it would help loosen me up and get the blood going. Figured a young sophisticated mare like yourself wouldn't be a morning pony." He said chuckling.

Rarity just waves her hoof, chuckling back.

"Oh quite the contrary dear. Considering I can be up all night on my orders, or end up going to bed early and waking up earlier so I can get a head start on any orders, I am quite accustomed to early mornings. Besides, today is the most important day for all of Ponyville so it is good to know there are a lot of ponies in such high spirits to get started on bring spring in." Rarity explained, as she passes out a few vests to some ponies.

"Then again, I do wish to relax and sleep in every once in awhile should I not be terribly busy." She added.

"I guess I can relate. Even though I don't do much anything else aside from training or coming to hang out with you and the others, I suppose it is in the blood of a stallion the need to sleep in because we want to. Me though? Been doing the same routine for six years now, kind of hard to break the habit at this point in time." Silver grinned.

"Well, I suppose you wish for your vest dear? You are with the plant team under Applejack, so here you are Silver dear.~" Rarity gives Silver a green vest with yellow linings on the collar and sleeves with a small patch of a leaf on one side and a star on the other.

Strangely, unlike the other plant vests which all had a more lighter green to them, Silver's vest was a bit more of a forest green. He manages to slide the vest, and looks to Rarity.

"Well... how is it?" He moves around.

"Perfect darling! I must say, that color of green seems to mesh better with you than the normal vest color, hence why I made a small exception to you. And with you cloak on, it does seem to give you a bit more flair. Whose to say one can't look fashionable while working hard labor?~" Rarity said, smiling softly.

"Aw Rarity, you didn't have to go through that trouble. I would've been fine with the normal vest color too, but it's the thought that counts. Thanks." Silver said with a gracious nod.

"Oh it was no trouble at all darling. Now then, if you excuse me Silver dear I need to gather a few more boxes of vests. I wish you best of luck for today.~" Rarity said, waving before she turns and heads inside the Town Hall to get more crates filled with more vests.

Silver waves back and decided he still had time before they began. He decided to go around, talking to the other ponies who all waved and greeted him as he went passed them. He looks around and sees Rainbow Dash, with several other pegasi and all donning blue vests, that appeared to be talking as well as stretching their wings. 

He then heads over to Dash, calling out to her.

"Hey Dash!" Silver greeted, as she trots over to her.

"Yo Silver! Glad to see you made it!" Rainbow Dash greeted back, as the two gave a hoof bump.

"Miss a good time to strengthen the body a bit by doing some good old fashioned labor?" He just shrugs, giving a playful smirk. "Wouldn't miss it in the world."

Both laugh.

"Oh yeah! I always look forward to this time of year, specially since it gets my blood pumped and these wings of mine going faster." Dash said as she points to her wings that she was currently flapping to strengthen them up.

"Heh, what I said to Rarity after getting my vest. I been up since five and just did my morning run to and back from town before coming back for real to get ready. Seeing as this is gonna be an all day effort, I need to be in my prime and at full capacity." Silver then clapped his hooves together before touching the ground.

"I've been up since five also! Gave me time to fly around to get a feel for the cool morning before we begin moving all the clouds away for the sun to shine down on the snow to melt. You know, we have to do some morning runs if you are up for that sometime! Granted, I'd be leaving you in the dust if that is the case, but it would be nice to have another pony to work out in the morning." Dash gloated.

"Who says it had to be a race, Rainbow Dash? But yeah if you ever feel up too it, we can plan out some routes to take in the morning, just to change it up a bit. Just don't leave behind for too long or I might just get lonely." Silver chuckles.

They both chuckled.

"Yeah, that sounds great Silver. Anyway, I better go see how my team are doing before we get to work. I'll talk to you later!" Dash then shoots off into the air, as she goes to meet with her team.

"Later Dash!" Silver called out before seeing her gone. 

He decides to go over toward fields near Sweet Apple Acres where several members of the plant team were at, alongside Applejack overseeing the team captain.

"Well mornin' Silver! Glad to see ya up and about dis early." Applejack greeted Silver as he waves.

"Same to you AJ. I guess everything is going smoothly right now?" Silver asks.

Applejack nods.

"Ya betcha! We have the carts with all the seeds prepared and the plows ready to go. Nice of ya to help the team out by the way. We could use all the earth ponies we can get!" She grinned, bumping him with her elbow.

He chuckles.

"Think nothing of it, friend. A little manual labor never hurt anypony, since I see it as part of strengthen my body a bit more. Sure everything will go as smooth as butter." Silver said as he looked out to the other earth ponies doing last minute checks on supplies and the equipment.

Applejack just scanned with him before replying and chuckling.

"Heh, I like the way ya think pardner. Now, let me just discuss wit ya what is gonna be goin' on..."

For the next few minutes, the two discussed what he was going to be doing and how to help the other ponies out. He then asked where Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy were at, and Applejack tells him Pinkie was part of the weather team and needed to help melt the ice down at the lake with the other earth ponies there by ice skating, and Fluttershy was part of the animal team and was charged with helping waking all the animals in their dens from hibernation and to clean out their homes.

"Actually, thinking about it, have you seen Twilight and Spike? Didn't she say they were going to partake in this as well?" Silver asked.

"She sure is, and like ya, it would be their first time in helpin' out. But since I haven't seen her, she is likely still at the library. Heh, maybe she woke up earlier than normal because of the excitement of helpin' change the seasons." Applejack mused.

"Typical Twilight." Silver thought, as he chuckles.






6:58 AM






The sun had just appeared from the horizon and everyone was gathered at the town center awaiting for Mayor Mare to officially commence Winter Wrap Up. Twilight, with Spike in tow and still tired, galloped as quickly as she could to the square where all the residence were waiting. She couldn't contain her excitement, as she goes past several ponies all wearing their colored vests.

"Those must be the team vests Rarity designed. Blue for the weather team, green for the plant team, and tan for the animal team. I wonder which team vest I'll be wearing." Twilight pointed out.

Spike, however, was still half asleep and just gave her a half-heart response. "I'll take a blue vest, same color as my blankie, which I think I hear calling my name. 'Spike! Spike! Come to bed!' Ugh, it's too early..." 

The unicorn simply ignored him, as he falls back to sleep. Soon, they reach the town center as Mayor Mare comes up to the front of the building and addresses everyone there. Silver was standing at the very front, and didn't notice Twilight hopping up into the air, excited, trying to hear the Mayor speak.

"Thank you, everypony, for being here bright and early. We need every single pony's help to wrap up winter, and bring in spring." Everyone in the crowd cheered loudly, stomping their hooves to the ground, as the Mayor continues.

"Now, all of you have your vests, and have been assigned to your teams, so let's do even better than last year, and have the quickest Winter Wrap Up ever!"

The crowd erupts in cheers again, clearly psyched up to get underway.

"Oh, this is so exciting." Twilight said to herself, smiling brightly.

Mayor Mare finishes her speech simply by saying, "All right everypony, find your team leader, and let's get galloping!"

The crowd then starts to disperse as they all go to their respective teams, Silver heading over to where Applejack's group was located with the other earth ponies and not noticing Twilight looking around.

She then looked around at the different groups and started to get confused as to what to do.

"Oh gosh, where should I go? I'm not sure where I fit in. What exactly does everypony do?" She asked herself.





(Twilight) (Applejack) (Pinkie Pie) (Rainbow Dash) (Fluttershy) (Rarity) (Silver)







Three months of winter coolness
And awesome holidays


We've kept our hoovsies warm at home
Time off from work to play


But the food we've stored is runnin' out
And we can't grow in this cold


And even though I love my boots
This fashion's getting old 


The time has come to welcome spring
And all things warm and green
But it's also time to say goodbye
It's winter we must clean
How can I help? I'm new, you see
What does everypony do?
How do I fit in without magic?
I haven't got a clue!


Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 


'Cause tomorrow spring–
–is here!


'Cause tomorrow spring is here!



Bringing home the southern birds
A Pegasus' job begins
And clearing all the gloomy skies
To let the sunshine in
We move the clouds
And we melt the white snow

When the sun comes up
Its warmth and beauty will glow!

Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow spring is here
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow spring is here
'Cause tomorrow spring is here!


Little critters hibernate
Under the snow and ice

We wake up all their sleepy heads
So quietly and nice

We help them gather up their food
Fix their homes below 

We welcome back the southern birds 
So their families can grow!

Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! (Winter, winter)
Let's finish our holiday cheer
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! (Winter, winter)
'Cause tomorrow spring is here
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! (Winter, winter)
'Cause tomorrow spring is here
'Cause tomorrow spring is here!

No easy task to clear the ground
Plant our tiny seeds
With proper care and sunshine
Everyone it feeds
Apples, carrots, celery stalks
Colorful flowers too
We must work so very hard

It's just so much to do! 

Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow spring is here
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!


'Cause tomorrow spring is here

'Cause tomorrow spring is here 


Now that I know what they all do
I have to find my place
And help with all of my heart
Tough task ahead I face
How will I do without my magic
Help the Earth pony way
I wanna belong so I must
Do my best today,
Do my best today!

Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
Let's finish our holiday cheer
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow spring is here
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!


'Cause tomorrow spring is here
'Cause tomorrow spring is here
'Cause tomorrow spring is here!










Twilight continues to wander about town, trying to figure out what exactly she should do and which team she should help. So far, most of the teams already had a large grasp on their tasks, yet Twilight didn't want to feel useless and wanted to help clean the season up without relying on her magic.

"Everypony belongs to a team. What should I do? Where should I go?" She asked Spike.

Before he can get an answer, the two spot Rainbow Dash as she commands her team to get ready to head off for their next task. She figured her friend could help her out and asked what Dash was doing, before replying that she was sending her team to lead the birds who flew south for the winter back north, to where they were. She asked if she could help with moving the clouds, but Rainbow Dash reminded her that she had to have wings to do that, and proceeds to take off with her team, leaving Twilight and Spike behind.

While Spike wanted to continue to sleep through the whole affair, Twilight was determined to help out in some way and do her part. She then goes to see Rarity, who told her she could help make birds' nests for the birds that flew back from the south so they have a place to live and lay their eggs during the spring. Thinking the task would be simple, Twilight obliged and began to make one birds' nest, though despite her best efforts and Rarity's instructions, her birds' nest turned out to be a flop. Rarity offers to help fix it up for her, but Twilight and Spike just end up moving on, leaving a soon to be confused and frustrated Rarity behind as she tends to Twilight's 'birds' nest'.

The two then find Pinkie Pie down at the lake, who explains that she was helping slice the frozen lake into chunks of ice so that the pegasi part of the weather team can move the clouds away and let the sun begin the process of melting the ice . Twilight offers to try helping Pinkie out, but she never learned how to ice skate and ends up sliding all over the lake and eventually crashes into Pinkie and Spike. Pinkie tries to cheer her up, but it only further saddens Twilight as she is unable to find a place to help partake Winter Wrap Up.

Pinkie suggested that Fluttershy might need help awaking up the small animals and she could see her, to which Twilight does do, after trying to get off the ice, much to Spike's amusement. Eventually, Twilight and Spike find Fluttershy as part of the animal team, and she tells them that her job is to ring a bell to wake the small critters up from hibernation, but with so many warrens and dens to do, Fluttershy feels she won't have enough time to wake up all the animals. Twilight offers her help, much to Fluttershy's relief, and thinking it was simple to do, she rings her bell to wake up a small den, only to find a bunch of snakes in it, causing her to freak out and end up crashing backwards into a larger den full of bats, running out and crashing into a tree, and for a bee's hive to land on her head and proceeds to get stung a lot. She blindly runs into a den and crashes, which turns out to be filled with a couple skunks and thus gets sprayed on.

Spike helps Twilight home and gives her a tomato bath to wash the stench off her, as well as deal with the bee stings on her face and head. She sighs deeply.

"All this Winter Wrap Up stuff is a lot harder than it looks."

Spike, scrubbing her back, rolls his eyes before responding in an annoyed tone.

"Right, because there's no magic. Why don't you just use magic, Twilight, and get it done the right way?" Spike asked.

Twilight just shoots her reply back in an irritated tone.

"No, Spike, I have to do it the traditional way. Ponyville has never needed magic to wrap up winter."

Spike then points out to her.

"Well, they never had you here before, either. Think how much quicker they could wrap up winter with your magic."

Twilight still doesn't budge on her answer. 

"No, no, no! I'm gonna find some other way that I can help out if it kills me." She then grunts as she resides back into the tub a bit.

After all that was done, the two head to the fields where Applejack was yelling out to two ponies in particular.

"Keep pushin', Caramel. That's it, Bumpkin. I know it's hard work, but you guys are doin' great. Yee-haw! Specially you Silver, keep at it!" Applejack cheered, as Silver, Caramel and Bumpkin all smiled and signaled back in acknowledgement.

The two approached the apple farmer.

"Hey, Applejack. How's everything going? " Twilight asked.

"Howdy Twilight and Spike.  Just dandy. A little slow startin', but peachy all the same. There's a lot of ground to clear, ya hear? We can't even start the plantin' and the waterin' until we git all these heap a' snow hightailed outta here." Applejack explained.

"Fer being younger than most of the other stallions, Silver is really pullin' his own weight. Dun think that pony has even slowed down since he started."

Surely enough, Silver looked as though he was going for a brisk jog, as he passes a couple of the other members, who just watched him go like it was nothing. It only caused them to try to catch up with the younger stallion.

"So Silver joined your team?" Twilight asked as she watched.

"Sure did. He said was thinkin' this was more of trainin' than anything else, really. Been up since five this mornin' apparently, and all that runnin' said he did has been keepin' him goin'. Dun think he broke a sweat either." Applejack remarked.

"Still, even wit him going like the Friendship Express, we still have a lot of ground to cover." She added dejectedly.

"Well, I'd like to help." Twilight said plainly, causing Applejack to look at her with a raised brow.

"Well, I... I dunno Twilight." 

Twilight shook her head and puts her hoof down. "Just give me a chance."

Applejack looks at her, and thinks for a minute. She then shrugs.

"Well, I never turn down a hard worker, but..." Applejack began, but only sees Twilight struggling to even move the plow.

"Think of how much quicker they could wrap up winter with your magic." Thinking back to what Spike said earlier.

Twilight adamantly refuses to use her magic, but considering she has no options left and this was really the only other place she could help, she sighed.

"I could use a come-to-life spell. Hwww... Here goes..." Twilight quickly casted the spell on the whole plow, and slowly she began to move as the blow moved.

Applejack looks and just blinks and raises one brow, suspicious. Spike, on the other hand, just grins brightly.

"Hmm. She's awful strong for such a little pony." Applejack remarked.

"That's my girl, following my advice." Spike said proudly, causing Applejack to stare at him confused.

"And what in tarnation does that mean?" She asked raising her voice.

Spike just chuckles nervously, but they then see Twilight beginning to move a bit faster than normal.

"Uh-oh. Slow down. Slow down!" She yelled quietly, but was beginning to move too quickly.

Silver, who was just going about, sees Twilight move right past him, causing him to leave his mouth gaping open.

"Twilight...? How are you moving so fast? Slow down!" He yelled.

Twilight was struggling to keep up with the plow and starts zig-zagging all over the field causing the other ponies plowing to move out of their path and causing more piles of snow, one pony managed to crash into as Twilight zipped by.

Silver then stops his plow and hops out as he gallops after.

"Hang on Twi! I'm coming!" He shouted, chasing after her, hoping over the plows and snow mounds, as she takes out his Mythril Sword which he still had on him as he plowed.

Twilight was then heading straight for Applejack and Spike, both whose eyes bug out.

"INCOMING!" Spike shouted as both he and Applejack tried to move out of the way.

Silver then leaps up, as he then chucks the Mythril Sword like a spear hard enough it impales the ground and stays there.
The plow collides with the sword, but rather than drag it up or run it over, it literally stopped the plow in its tracks, causing Twilight to shoot out of the thing and crash into Applejack and Spike. The plow then stops trying to move as the magic around it disappears.

"Phew... Knew that would come in handy." Silver wipes his brow, as he goes over and pulls the blade out with his mouth, which easily slides out for him, and sticks his sword back in its scabbard. He then goes over to the three.

"Are you three alright?" Silver asked worriedly.

"Ow..." Spike muttered.

"Ugh..." Applejack muttered.

Twilight groans.

Silver goes and helps the three up.

"Well, couldn't been worse. Least I was able to stop it from plowing into you two. But Twilight..." Silver said as he looks to the unicorn.

"What happened? I know you are not the strongest pony physically, but... the only way you would've been able to move that plow in the first place was to use magic." Silver deduced, causing Twilight to wince.

Applejack then gives a scowl to her friend.

"Nuts, Twilight, you used magic." She said in an angered tone.

Twilight's ears flatten as she looked the other way. She knew she shouldn't have done this, all she wanted to do was help.
And now she messed things up big time.

"That's not how we do it 'round here, Twilight, and especially not on MY FARM!" Applejack yelled furiously.

Silver and Spike just took a step back, and Twilight's eyes began to water.

"Well, see, I just wanted to..." Twilight spoke softly, only to begin to whine. She then gallops off, sobbing as the other ponies watch her go, clearly disappointed.

"Twilight! Wait!" Spike yelled as he ran after her.

Applejack then frowns for what she did, feeling guilty for having to yell at Twilight like that.

"Oh shoot..." Applejack muttered.

"I better go find her. Sorry AJ, but this is more important at the moment. You are going to have to try to get this done without me in the meantime." Silver simply said in a calm tone as he turns around and gallops off in the direction Spike went.

Applejack sighs and mulls over what she did.






Ponyville Town Center
Afternoon






Back in town, Twilight was quietly sobbing to herself inside a bush. Spike was standing just a few feet from her trying to coax her to come out.

"Come on, Twilight. Come on out." Spike said, pleadingly.

"I'm a winter mess up..." Twilight said quietly.

"Well you're good at a lot of things, just not nest-making, ice-skating, animal-waking, snow-clearing..." Spike pointed out.

Twilight simply whines more.

"Thanks a lot for making me feel so much better..." She replied.

Spike sheepishly smirked.

"That is what I am here for sister..."

"Twilight!" Silver yelled in the distance.

"...Silver?" Twilight said from her spot.

"Silver! Over here, dude!" Spike yelled as he waves him over.

Silver slows down, panting a bit.

"There you are. Twilight, are you alright?" Silver asked.

"I'm just fine, Silver... I basically just ruined everypony's hard work." Twilight spat.

"Come on, Bookie. I know you aren't one to just give in that easily. Okay, you messed up a bit... it happens. You simply just wanted to help everypony out in your own way... granted it was the way you weren't suppose to do it, but it was progress... I guess?" Silver said, rubbing his head.

"Well I didn't want to use magic, but Spike kept on insisting I use a little bit of it just to speed Winter Wrap Up along." Twilight rebuted.

Silver then looks at Spike, raising his brow.

"Hehehe... heh..." Spike just chuckles nervously, as he stares away from Silver.

"Rainbow Dash, y'all on the weather team need to melt the rest of the snow here on the ground and the trees, pronto." Applejack yelled as Rainbow Dash heard her and complied.

"Got it!" Dash replied.

Before she can go though, Fluttershy stopped her.

"Wait. My poor little animals' homes will get flooded if the snow melts too fast." Fluttershy replied hastily.

"Got it." Dash understood, but again, Applejack stops her.

"I'm tellin' you, Rainbow, you gotta melt that snow now."

"No, you simply must wait." Fluttershy spoke up.

Dash was getting slightly annoyed by this.

"Okay..." She muttered.

Applejack and Fluttershy begin yelling 'stop' and 'go' to the point Dash tells them to make up their minds. 

Ponies begin to gather, as Mayor Mare approaches the group.

"Oh! What in Equestria are all you arguing about? This sort of silliness is why we were late for spring last year, and the year before that, and the year before that." She reminded.

Silver, Spike, and Twilight who pops her head out of the busy, tilted her head.

"...Say what?" Silver asked deadpanned.

"Did she say late?" Twilight asked.

Mayor Mare continues speaking.

"I was hoping my amazingly inspirational speech would urge everyone to do better than last year, but now it looks like we're going to be later than ever. I mean just look at this catastrophe. The ice scorers made the ice chunks too big to melt. The nest designer is horrendously behind, we need several hundred, and she's only made one."

They all look at Rarity, who has been working on the same birds' nest that Twilight made earlier, and is already frustrated to tears. Spike and Silver look at Twilight, who simply lowers her head back into the bush, ashamed.

"And don't get me started on all the clouds in the sky, the icicles on the trees... This isn't good, not at all!" Mayor Mare spat out.

Ponies slowly begin showing their frustration as well and slowly start to bicker.

"And it's gonna be all to pieces disastrous if we can't get our seeds all planted!" Applejack interjected.

"Chillax Applejack, we're bustin' our chops as fast as we can." Rainbow Dash reasoned, before Fluttershy spoke up again.

"No, not fast, we have to wake animals slowly."

The three friends start arguing with each other, as Big McIntoish and Caramel Apple walk over to where her younger sibling was at. She already had a feeling why Caramel looked remorseful.

"Dun tell me... Caramel lost the grass seeds again?" She asked.

"Eeeyup." Big Mac replied annoyed.

"Ditzy Doo accidentally went north to get the southern birds!" Rainbowshine said, flying in.

Rainbow Dash just sighed deeply.

"Oh that featherbrain. Didn't she learn her lesson last year when she went west?"

Now everyone began complaining and arguing, as Silver, Spike and Twilight can only watch.

"Stop this at once. We don't have time to argue. It's almost sundown. Spring is going to be late again. Another year of scandal and shame. If only we could be more organized." Mayor Mare yelled out.

The moment Twilight heard the word organized, she gasped and grinned brightly. She then looks to Spike.

"Spike! Get my checklist and clipboard, STAT!" 

Spike looks at her and nods.

"Eh, yes, ma'am!" Spike replied and ran off to the library as fast as he can. Silver looks at Twilight, grinning.

"You have plan don't you?" Silver asked.

Twilight nods, smiling a bit.

"Definitely."

Twilight approaches the group.

"Stop everypony!" She yelled, but everyone continued yelling.

"Hey! Everypony stop for a moment!" She yelled again, but still nothing.

Silver frowns as he goes past Twilight, signaling to give him a second. He finds Pinkie, arguing, but manages to get her attention and she just stops and looks to Silver. She tilts her head and grins and pulls something out of her mane and gives it to him. He nods, thanking her and Pinkie grinned brightly, before going back to arguing.

Silver then goes up to the front of the Town Hall, where he holds up an airhorn. Nopony notices, but then he lets it go off and holds it like that for about five seconds.

This causes all the ponies to jump in surprise and shut up instantly as they looked up at Silver with a look of, 'what the hay was that for?'

"Good that worked out well. Now that we have you undivided attention, Twilight Sparkle! You now have the floor!" He said motioning toward her, who just giggled and approached the group.

"Thank you Silver Guardian. Now then everypony, I know you all want to complete your jobs on time, but arguing is no way to go about it. What you need is organization, and I'm just the pony for the job." Twilight said in confidence.

Everypony looked at each other and murmured as Spike returns with the checklist and clipboard. She then makes a checklist as explains to everypony what they should focus on where, when, and what to do. The teams all dispersed and got to work as Twilight, Spike and Silver look at each other and grinned.

First they started on working on making the birds' nest. Several ponies, like Big Mac, carted in more hay, straw and ribbons for Rarity and several other ponies in the animal team. They got to work on making several hundred nests in a span of an hour. Before they realized it, they were finished with the tasked, and have the team start setting up the nests in all the different trees around and outside Ponyville.

Next, the ice scorers all learned that they should skate and cut the ice in a crisscross pattern, which would help speed the process of get the ice cut in small enough pieces for the sun to melt. They just had to await for the pegasi team for their part.

Third, Applejack instructs the earth ponies, lead by Silver in the center plow, to plow a pathway and a second set of ponies would plant the seeds while moving along the path. Applejack and Twilight watch and hoofbump each other in satisfaction. 

Then, they move over to Fluttershy's group and Twilight devised a method of hanging up several bells above every warren and den there was and have it all pulled by one rope. Fluttershy does so and all the bells ring at the same time as the animals all begin to come out of their little dens and warrens. After seeing Twilight hug a tree branch from seeing the colony of snakes slither by and as the animals move out, Fluttershy signals the bird to call for Rainbow Dash's team to begin moving the clouds out. Moving in together as one, they were able to fly through the gray clouds and blow enough force to get any snow that was stuck in trees off and soon enough, the sun comes back and begins to melt all the snow, as well as the ice down by the lake and rivers.

Work continued into the night, as every earth pony continued to plow the hillsides with more seeds and bring more hay and straw. Most were shown to be exhausted, but knew they had to finish this by tomorrow, even Spike started to help out.

The following day, all the birds from the south have made back north thanks to the weather team and all managed to find their new nests. At the same time, they began the process of watering all the seeds that were planted using large water wagons.

And with that, the final task on the checklist was checked off. Everyone relished in what they accomplished as butterflies fluttered about, the animals were out and about, birds chirping, turtles and fish can swim freely. It was the very image of spring, and it was all thanks to Twilight's organizational skills.

Everypony looked toward Ponyville, seeing their hard work paid off. Twilight was pleased with herself.

"Well done Twilight... well done." Silver said as he walks up beside her and pats her back looking out.

"I must agree Twilight. Spring is here! On time! And we have you to thank for it. If it weren't for your organizing skills we would still be arguing." Mayor Mare said as everyone all agreed in unison.

Twilight just blushed, grinning proudly.

"It was a team effort, after all." Twilight replied.

Mayor Mare nods.

"And since you helped every team, we have an official vest for you. We give you the title, 'All-Team Organizer'."

A vest that showed each color of the three teams was given to Twilight as she slips it on, admiring her accomplishment, as everyone cheered.

"Gosh, I don't even know what to say. Thank you, everypony." Twilight nodded.

And the news everyone was waiting for. Mayor Mare turns around to the crowd, with a proud smile.

"And hereby I declare that winter is... wrapped up on time!"

Everyone cheered loudly and congratulated each other for their hard work. Applejack then looks out and starts chuckling.

"Spike's sure gonna be in for a hog-sized surprise when that last piece a' ice melts." She said grinning, as they see Spike out in the lake, on a small piece of ice, asleep.

Everyone began laughing. Silver then looks at Twilight and grins. 

"Should I...?" He asked.

"Please." Twilight said grinning.

"You got it." He then slips his cloak and vest off, as well as resting his sword with Twilight. 

He then gallops off toward the lake and dives in, surprising everyone, Twilight just grinning.

Was the water still cold? Oh yes. Did Silver mind it? Not at all. He just swam out there as he pulls the small piece of ice that Spike was sleeping on back to shore. Not once did the baby dragon stir.

"WOAH! That is a rush! Yes, it was still a bit freezing, but it was so worth it." Silver screamed as he shakes the water off him.

He then goes to get his cloak and uses it to dry off before wrapping around him.

Everyone just laughed and cheered for that amazing stunt.






Golden Oak Library - Ponyville
Night






With that, Winter Wrap Up has come to a close, and Spring has begun. Later that evening, Spike was writing Twilight's letter to Princess Celestia, on what she learned from all of this.




Dear Princess Celestia,

Winter Wrap Up was one of the most special things I've ever been a part of here in Ponyville. It helped me to learn we all have hidden talents, and if we're patient and diligent, we're sure to find them, and as always, with good friendship and teamwork, ponies can accomplish anything. 

Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle




"How was that Spike?" Twilight asked, but didn't receive a response.

"Spike?" She asked again, but finds the baby dragon already asleep.

All she could do was laugh quietly.

"Oh, Spike..." She said with a heartwarming smile.

She decides to pick the baby dragon up and calls it a night as she tucks Spike to bed, and puts the fire out in the fireplace,
before heading to bed herself. After working endlessly through the day and night to get spring to arrive on time, she passed out into a deep slumber.






Silver's House - Ponyville Outskirts
Night






Meanwhile, Silver was laying in his bed, as he was reading a book detailing using magic through artificial conduits like crystals. He then thinks for a moment, as he yawns, and decides to turn in as well. He sets the book down on his nightstand, as he shuts the lights out and looked out his window at the clear night sky.

"...Meh, I'm just gonna sleep in tomorrow. I earned it." Silver said quietly and closed his eyes and drifted off for much needed rest.
> Chapter 6 - Suited For Success
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------






Carousel Boutique - Ponyville


Noon






A couple months have passed since the beginning of spring, but now most had one thing on their mind right now: the Grand Galloping Gala.

It was nearing the end of the first-half of April, and Rarity was hard at work in preparing her dress for the upcoming Gala that was only a month away near the end of May. It was hard to believe the time flew by, with everything that was going on in Ponyville that required her and her friends to help resolve, she needed to get started on her dress so that it was ready for the Gala.

She was looking over a sketch of the design of her dress she was set on creating, looking rather pleased with how the sketched turned out. She trots over to a nearby manikin that had a pink fabric draped around it. Laying on top of it, was a small, white fluffy Persian cat with a wide face, and shortened muzzle. She wore a opal-studded collar around he neck, and a purple bow on the top of her head. The small cat just appeared content napping on it, as Rarity approached her.

"Oh, Opalescence. Can't you just picture it? Moi, stepping out in a stunning new gown at the Grand Galloping Gala in Canterlot!" Rarity asked her pet cat.

Opalescence just yawns as she turns her head the other way, not really listening to Rarity and continues to nap.

It didn't last, as Rarity pulls the fabric away from the manikin with Opal being flung into the air, before landing on the ground with a meow, as she follows after her.

"Why, yes! I did make it myself. Thank you so much for asking." Rarity said, as she looks away from Opal and looks in a nearby mirror, making a duck-face while blinking her eyes rapidly.

Taking the fabric over to her sewing station, she prepares to get started on making her dress. Opal then stands ontop of the fabric that was resting on the floor as she presses her paws onto it and curls back up with a content smile. However, the fabric slowly moves toward the station, causing Opal to wake back up and hop back off, before giving her own an annoyed growl and walks away.

Rarity picked this up as if she was being asked by her cat to help her, and she obliged happily.

"Oh, Opal. Of course you can help me! Thank you.~" Rarity said, as she stops what she was doing and goes to pick her cat off the floor and sets her on a nearby table. 

Opal just gave her an unamused look, before placing a red pincushion in her mouth. She just gave another annoyed growl, looking away from Rarity.

"What's that? You want to help more?" She asked, as she picked up several small tools with her magic.

"Well, aren't you the sweetest little thing?"~

She sets the small tools, consisting of a couple of scissors, measuring tape, spindles of pink thread, and some glue. Opal was forced to stand on her one hind paw as she tried to balance all of these with her head, fore paws, and her tail, with the measuring tape loosely around her neck.

Rarity begins to pool some thread from one of the spindles Opal was holding as she held her sketch up above her head,
and winds the thread into the pink fabric.

"Careful now. Don't move. This shouldn't take long at all." Rarity said as she begins to work.

Opal, struggling to keep balanced on one paw, simply rolls her eyes before growling in response.

An hour later, Rarity was in her zen mode, as she was concentrating really hard in stitching her dress. That was until she heard several loud knocks at her door, before the door opened revealing Applejack and Twilight, who had a saddlebag on. 

"Howdy Rarity!" Applejack greeted loudly.

Twilight then whispered before hushing the orange mare.

"Can't you see she is concentrating?" Twilight asked in a low, but loud tone.

Rarity was trying hard to stay focused, but as her friends go over to see what she was doing, she slowly beginning to show her frustration with her friends interrupting her.

"What do you think she's makin'?" Applejack asked quietly.

"Looks like a dress..." Twilight replied in the same quiet tone.

"Well, that makes sense. Since this is a dressmaker's shop and all." Applejack replied back.

Rarity was nearly ready to burst into anger, but was able to hold back at the last moment, before quickly staring at the two with wide eyes and forced smile.

"Is there something I can help you with?" She asked forcefully.

Twilight gave Rarity an apologetic look.

"Oh, so very sorry to trouble you, Rarity, but I need a quick favor." Twilight answered as she pulls out a rather old looking red dress, with yellow shoulder pads, and with one of the buttons nearly coming off.

"Could you please fix the button for me? It's my dress for the Grand Galloping Gala." Twilight responded.

Rarity looks over the dress, and just gave a look of disgust before looking at the other unicorn in shock and begins shaking her head rapidly.

"Oh, no, no, no! You can't wear this... old thing. You need a glamorous new outfit for the Gala and I'll make it for you. No problem at all. It will be my pleasure!" Rarity replied hastily.

Twilight gave a soft smile at her offer.

"Oh, that's really sweet of you to offer, Rarity, but I can't let you do that. It would be so much work. This dress is fine." She replied.

Rarity wasn't going to back down, however. 

"Twilight Sparkle, I insist on making you a new dress."

"But..." Twilight tried to argue back, but Rarity stops her by waving her hoof in front of her.

"Not another word! I won't take no for an answer." Rarity said with a soft grin.

Twilight realized she likely won't win against the fashionista. She just gave a side way glance while smiling.

"Well, in that case... Thank you for your generosity, Rarity. Knowing your handiwork, I'm sure it will be absolutely beautiful."

Rarity nods, but gave a frown as she looks toward Applejack, looking her over.

"Let me guess, Applejack. You don't want a new gown either?" She asked in a disapproving tone.

Applejack blinks before grinning.

"Gown? Shoot. I was just gonna wear my old work duds." She said looking down at herself.

Rarity just gave an appalled look at her friend at the very notion of wearing something like that to the Gala.

"You can't possibly be serious, Applejack! You absolutely must wear formal attire." Rarity replied in a serious tone.

"Hmm..." Applejack puts her hoof up to her chin, thinking about it.

"Nah." She said plainly.

Rarity just sighs. She realized that Applejack was rather stubborn. She looks back during the slumber party the two had with Twilight some time ago. She then decides to take another approach.

"What if I just spruce up your... duds for you a little bit?" She asked, with a pleadingly.

Applejack thinks about again, but then shrugs and nods.

"Okay, sure. Why not? Since you're up for it and all. Just don't make them too... frou-frou-y."

Rarity just grinned brightly. 

"Deal!"

All three were about to get back to their own thing, until they heard Rainbow Dash yell from above, outside.

"Look out below!"

Rainbow Dash suddenly surprises the girls by crashing through Rarity's ceiling and smacks into the floor, before bouncing backwards into the manikins in the back, toppling them over on top of her.

She stands up from the pile, having a bucket on her head and some fabric on her, before chuckling sheepishly at the three.

"Sorry. New trick. Didn't quite work." Dash said, readjusting the bucket.

Strangely, Rarity didn't seem at all concerned about the fact the cyan pegasus crashed through her roof. She was looking at her closely.

"Hmmmm..." She thought, before gasping and smiling brightly.

"I-dee-a!~ I'll make you an outfit for the Gala too, Rainbow Dash." Rarity replied in delight.

Dash simply blinks before looking at herself and just gave a confused look.

"Outfit for the what now?" She asked.

"I'll make one for you and you and all of you. Oh! And of course Pinkie and Fluttershy too. Oh, and when I'm done, we can hold our very own fashion show!" Rarity said, hopping in cheerfully.

The girls all seemed to smile at the idea.

"What a great idea!" Twilight cheerfully added. "If you're sure you can handle it."

Rarity goes to her shelf and pulls out several rolls of fabric and brings them to her workstation before replying back.

"Oh, it'll be a little bit of work, but it will be a wonderful boost for my business. Plus, fun!"

"Oh, I love fun things!" Dash added.

Rarity sets a roll of purple fabric out, holding up a pair of scissors with her magic.

"Then it's settled. We'll have a fashion show starring us." Rarity replied, with the girls all cheering in agreement.

Applejack then walks over to Rarity, who began cutting some fabric out.

"So all you have to do is make a different, stunning, original, amazing outfit for one, two, three, four, five... plus yourself, six ponies? And lickety split?" The mare asked, giving the white mare a questioningly look.

Rarity simply chuckles.

"Oh, Applejack. You make it sound as if it's going to be hard." She repled, giving a confident grin.

"Wait a minute! What about Silver?" Twilight piqued up.

"Surely he'll need some form of attire for the Gala too." She added.

"But of course darling! How can we forget about our young stallion friend? It would be nice to get a good suit of some sort for dear Silver. Do you know where he is?" Rarity asked as she continued cutting fabric.

"Last I heard, he went back up to Canterlot a couple days ago. Mentioned something about being needed at his mother's business. He said he'd be back when he sorts everything out, which would be a day or two. I'll write him a letter later today and ask him. I'm sure he'll agree with the idea too, Rarity." Twilight said with a soft grin.

"Thank you Twilight. I can't wait to create something that will make him stand out more. I'll wait to see what his reply will be and just meet with him on the details.~" Rarity replied gleefully.

Twilight then frowned.

"But still... this is going to be a lot of work for you Rarity. Making seven original dresses for something as important like the Gala... are you sure you can handle this?" She asked in a concerned tone.

"Don't worry, I always like a good challenge. Besides, as I mentioned to Applejack you make it sound like this is going to be hard." Rarity replied, with no hint of worry.

Soon after, the girls decide to leave Rarity to her work, so that she has full focus and concentration. Until she was able to get a confirmation from Silver and time to take his measurements for his attire for the Gala, Rarity decides to focus on her friend's dresses first. She heads to the sewing machine and begins working on Twilight's dress first. As she works, she begins humming a tune, and before long turns into a song.











Thread by thread, stitching it together
Twilight's dress, cutting out the pattern snip by snip
Making sure the fabric folds nicely
It's the perfect color and sohip
Always gotta keep in mind my pacing
Making sure the clothes' correctly facing
I'm stitching Twilight's dress

Yard by yard, fussing on the details
Jewel neckline, don't you know a stitch in time saves nine?
Make her something perfect to inspire
Even though she hates formal attire
Gotta mind those intimate details
Even though she's more concerned with sales
It's Applejack's new dress

Dressmaking's easy, for Pinkie Pie something pink
Fluttershy something breezy
Blend color and form,

"Do you think it looks cheesy?" Rarity asks Opal, who simply mews.

Something brash, perhaps quite fetching
Hook and eye, couldn't you just simply die?
Making sure it fits forelock and crest
Don't forget some magic in the dress
Even though it rides high on the flank
Rainbow won't look like a tank
I'm stitching Rainbow's dress

Piece by piece, snip by snip
Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip
Thread by thread, primmed and pressed
Yard by yard, never stressed
And that's the art of the dress! 







A few days later...






It took her a couple days, but Rarity was finally finished with the girls' dresses. She knew it was quite a challenge to get six dresses done in such short amount of time, but regardless it is sure to payoff in the end, at least in Rarity's mind.

"Oh, they turned out great!~ These will certainly impress the girls when they come by later." Rarity said as she admired her handy work. Six elegant dresses made, each fitting the personality of her friends.

"Now, I sure hope dear Silver comes back to the Ponyville soon. I am just eager to get his attire started." Rarity thought aloud, clapping her hooves together.






Canterlot
Noon






Silver has just finished up helping at his mother's, or rather now his, jewelry store. He had to help the current Diamond Dust carry out several hundred orders for several hundred clients. The stallion had basic understanding of the business at hand, but never made a single piece of jewelry in his life, as Golden would often have her son work as a helper by polishing jewelry on display or for orders that would be sent out. Diamond Dust was just as good as Golden was as a jewelry maker and was more than capable of handling the production of orders while Silver polished them and submitted a lot of paperwork.

Having finished, Silver stated he needed to get to the train station and catch the train back to Ponyville and go meet Rarity at her boutique so she can take his measurements for his Gala attire. After receiving Twilight's letter in regards of Rarity making dresses for the girls and then put on a fashion show to help promote Rarity's business, Silver thought it would be an interesting idea and accepted the offer of Rarity making him an outfit for the Gala as well.

Only thing he needed to think about on the way home was what he wanted done, as he never visited a tailor and specified what sort of attire he wanted done, but he could trust Rarity to make the perfect outfit for him.

Silver is seen galloping down the main street toward the train station, and managed to board with a few seconds to spare.

He goes to his seat in sits down, panting out of breath.

"Phew... barely made that..." Silver muttered as he rests his head back against the seat.

He yawns and stretches. Having worked for a week straight, all Silver wanted to do was nap for a bit. It would be a couple hours before they reached Ponyville, so he took it upon himself to go and snooze for the ride home.






???






Silver stirs awake as he doesn't appear to be in the train, but rather a white void. He looked around him, and noticed there was nothing here. He wandered about this seemingly endless void of nothingness.

"Hello?" Silver called out, as his voice just echoes.

"Hellllooooo?" He called out again.

No answer, just silence.

"...Is this just a dream...?" Silver thought.

He felt as though he wasn't alone. There had to been something else here with him.

His coat was on end, as he stops and suddenly felt a presence appear behind him. He whips his head around and just stared widely at what he saw.

Standing a few feet from him, some sort of... creature on two legs stood there. It was something Silver never seen before, and the only thing close was minotaurs, who stood on two legs. It also appeared to have claws too, but didn't look like a dragon claw or anything. And the attire he was wearing was something he never seen anyone wear before: it looked like some sort of red coat, made of leather, and wore dark gray leggings and what looked like some sort of shoes around where his hooves would be.





The figure just stood there, seemingly staring at Silver. Seemingly because he can't make out its eyes, as they are shrouded in the dark, likely from the brim of that hat he was wearing.

The whole time, the two just had a stare off and the silence of this dream realm was just making Silver anxious. Finally, the figure spoke, with Silver's ears twitching from the sudden break of silence.

"You show promise, but as you stand now you lack the proper skill. You desire to be a protector to those you care for, and help those in need. You have also shown that you are capable of handling a tight situation, but deep down you still carry a burden of doubt. The figure said in calm tone.

Silver lessened his gaze, and just looked at the ghost with a look of skepticism.

"...What are you talking about?" Silver asked.

"You have untapped potential resting within you. The dormant magic that lays within you is 
untouched as you lack the proper means of utilizing it. Because of this, I can't teach the ways of my skill in blade and magic. Only after the magic within yourself has made itself known, will be the day we shall get down to business..." The figure replied.

Silver tilts his head. His untapped potential and dormant magic? Did he refer to his unicorn magic? He was going to ask him more, but the figure held his 'hoof' up.

"Yes, you are wondering who and what I am. Of the two questions I can answer, I can only say that I am a creature that existed in the past, and most likely been forgotten to the sands of time. As for who I am, well that is complicated I'm afraid. Only in due time you will learn the truth.

"For now, you may simply refer to me as Crimson."

Silver was just trying to process all this. This Crimson, he couldn't help shake that there was something very familiar with him and the vibe he was giving off: he couldn't tell if he was friend or foe, but given he hasn't harmed him and simply talked to him, he would think the former.

Crimson simply looks up for a moment, before staring back at Silver.

"It appears my time is up. Unlocking your untapped potential is still a ways long, but you will succeed in gaining it. Have faith in your skills and never lose your will to help others, as your friends are your strength, so never lose them."

The white void began to shake, causing the pony to look around in confusion, with Crimson still standing there calmly.

"Relax, you are simply waking up. For now I shall take my leave, but remember: we will meet again,
Silver Guardian. You hold the mark of destiny, and one day you will realize your true purpose in life... Until we meet again."

The world around the two just became all white, causing Silver to shield his eyes as Crimson simply stood there, not at all phased, as quickly as the world became white, it then became black.






Friendship Express






Silver jolts awake and begins frantically looking around. Seeing he was back on the train, he began to calm down. He saw that clock above the door to the next train car read it was only an hour since he left Canterlot, and Ponyville was only another hour away. The dream he just had, and this 'Crimson' guy he saw, and how he seemed he knew about him. Everything he heard from this being just confused Silver, making his head hurt slightly.

He rubs his head and just sighed.

"That was... something." He muttered and just simply stared out the window of the train, seeing Ponyville in far distance.

As he sat there, often his mind kept going back to the dream he had. What was it about, and why did he have it? The realm he was in felt too real, as if he was actually there and not dreaming.

"Agh... it is probably best not to dwell on it now, if I don't want to get a migraine over it. I should probably focus on figuring out my attire for the Gala when I go see Rarity. Question is how I want it done..." Silver said to himself.

As formal and big the Gala was, one thing was for certain: he would not wear a suit. He'd rather differentiate himself from the Canterlot high-class, despite being part of the high-class of his hometown ever since he was given ownership of the Golden Emerald. Silver was a fighter in his heart, and as such he wanted to show his pride as a protector without looking too casual.

That was when he had an idea in mind. He mulled over it a bit more, and just smiled over the thought.

"Heh, I know this is something Rarity would go for. I should head home first before I head to her place. I need to get the details down."






Silver's House - Ponyville
Afternoon






Silver arrived home a little bit after 2:30 PM. He goes to put his things away and heads to his desk, taking out a piece of paper and a nearby quill. For the next hour, he slowly took the time sketch out a rough design of his attire for the Gala. While Silver doesn't draw that often, when he does have an idea and wants bring the idea out visually, then he would often sketch it out to the best of his ability.

Needless to say, Silver looks at the finished sketch and feels content as it did come out rather decently.

"Hopefully Rarity will go for this." Silver said to himself, smiling.

He then heard a knock on his front door, which causes him to turn toward the source. He then rolls his sketch up before placing it in his hood and goes to answer his door.

"Who is it?" Silver asked.

"It's Twilight!" The mare's voice answered passed the door.

He opens the door, and there she was grinning softly.

"Hey Twilight! What brings you by?" He asked.

"Did you forget? Rarity finished our dresses for the Gala and we were going to go see them together whenever you got back from Canterlot!" Twilight responded.

"Oh right. Sorry, I had to rush back here to drop my things off and... well I had to prepare something for Rarity in regards to my attire for the Gala." Silver said as he comes out and closes the door behind him.

"Well we should head to Rarity's and meet with the girls. They are all waiting for you to get there, so we should get going." Twilight then began trotting off ahead of Silver, with him following her.






Carousel Boutique - Ponyville
Roughly 15 minutes later






Silver and Twilight arrive in front of Rarity's place with the girls already standing outside waiting for the two. After they greet each other, Rarity brings them inside but stops outside her workshop.

"Alright everypony. I want you to close your eyes and not peek until I say the word!~ I know you will be surprised when you see these beautiful works of art!" Rarity said in an excited tone.

With that, they closed there eyes as Rarity opens the door and leads the seven of them in, the group smiling.

"That's it. Keep them closed. Don't look. Okay, you can look now!" Rarity shouted gleefully.

The group then opened their eyes and everyone, sans Rarity, all gasped in surprise. Across the room, there were five beautifully made dresses that all fit the theme of each of the owners. Rarity, smiling brightly, trots over to her work, and details each dress and what she did with them with pride.

"These are your new outfits. What do you think of your old duds now, Applejack? Pretty swanky, are they not? And Twilight! I made this dress for you and I designed each outfit theme to perfectly reflect each pony's unique personality. Oh, it took me forever to get the colors right on this one, Rainbow Dash, but I did it. Oh, and it turned out beautiful, don't you think? And I know you are going to love yours, Fluttershy. It just sings spring! And Pinkie Pie, look! Pink! Your favorite! Aren't they all amazing?" She said with a bright smile, while she just looked at the group awaiting for their response. 

While that happened, Opal was happily nuzzling against Rainbow's gown and then playing with the tassels of Applejack's dress happily, gave a pleased look before hopping a bit and had her one paw up while grinning with Twilight's dress, jumps and does a somersault before standing up with a pleased grin with Fluttershy's dress, and simply rested on the flank end of Pinkie's dress contently.

The silence was getting a bit awkward, and Silver noticed it. He can see it in their eyes they were hiding how they really felt: off-putting. This was likely not gonna end well for anyone in the room, especially Rarity.

Finally after what was a minute, Twilight finally spoke up.

"Wow... They're..." Twilight uttered out, while trying to think of something else to add.

"Yeah... They're..." Rainbow Dash responded as well, thinking the same thing.

"They sure are... somethin'." Applejack weakly added.

"Yes! Something." Twilight blurted out.

"I like 'something'! Something is my favorite!" Pinkie shouted, with a forced smile.

She looks over at Fluttershy, who just tried to think of something, but just looked rather put off in expression and in tone.

"It's... nice." Fluttershy responded plainly.

Silver just frowned. What was with these five? He really didn't see anything wrong with the dresses. Rarity's smile then turned into a frown as she looked at them worried.

"But what's the matter? Don't you like them?" She asked concerned.

The girls just looks at each other, not wanting to upset Rarity for her work.

"They're are very nice..." Twilight said in a forced reassurance.

"And we're plumb grateful 'cause you worked so hard on them." Applejack added in.

Rainbow Dash just gave a passive look.

"Mine's just not as cool as I was imagining." 

This earns a glare from the group, as she looks at them. Rainbow waves her hoof toward Rarity.

"She asked." Rainbow points out.

"I guess what we're all saying is that they're just not what we had in mind." Twilight said, as the others sans Silver, respond with a collective 'yeah'.

Rarity was speechless and take a back by this. She didn't know how to respond to this.

"...Well I think they look great Rarity." Silver then stepped up, as they look at him.

"You do?" Rarity asked, seeing a bit of hope.

"You do...?" The girls asked collectively.

"Well yeah. I mean I think she worked hard in capturing each of your girl's personality and it is a good way of showing it. I mean, I don't think I'll fully understand what you see wrong with these dresses, but know that Rarity did this out of the generosity of her heart, and I think you five should be at least appreciated that she offered to do these in the first place." Silver said as he crossed his hooves.

"But... everypony is entitled to their own opinion, and they are your dresses and all I can do is just say my peace and nothing more." Silver added.

Rarity gave the stallion a soft smile.

"Oh Silver dear, you are too kind and I am glad you like the dresses. But, it is alright. Not a problem. There's plenty more where that came from. They were only a first pass."

She looked at the girls.

"You're my friends and I want you to be 110% satisfied. Not to worry, I'll redo them." She said sadly.

The girls blinked, clearly seeing they sort of hurt her feelings.

"Oh, Rarity. You don't have to do that. They're fine." Fluttershy said, placing a hoof on her chest.

Rarity shook her head.

"I want them to be better than just fine. I want you to think they're absolutely perfect." She puts her hoof down.

"Are you sure? I mean, we wouldn't wanna impose." Applejack said with a frown.

The white mare gave a soft assuring smile.

"Oh, it's no imposition. Really, I insist." 

The girls look at each other, and simply just shrug and look at their friend, Twilight stepping up.

"Well, in that case... Thank you again, Rarity." Twilight said with a cheery smile.

The girls all agreed, as Rarity gave a soft smile, but in her mind: she was nervous.

"What have I gotten myself into?" She thought.

That was until her mind wandered to Silver, who had a look of contempt. She could tell he too also seemed off-put, but mostly for what their friends said.

"Oh! Seeing Silver here made me realize I need to get his outfit started as well! But... since I have to work on revising the other dresses..." Rarity said, looking a bit remorseful.

Silver then gave her a sad grin as he walked up to her.

"Hey, it's alright. I mean the girls' dresses are more of a priority at this point. I mean you are just doing some tweaks to them, so I am willing to wait until you do those before you get to mine. No rush. I just don't want to overwhelm you with what you already got on your plate. Just focus on the girls first, then worry about me, I am a very patient pony." Silver gave her a genuine, secure grin as he pats her shoulder.

"Oh Silver dear. You are too kind, and I really am sorry we can get started with your outfit yet. But I assure you darling, the moment I have done the touch-ups on my other friends' dresses, we shall get started on your attire!" Rarity said, determined.

Silver chuckles.

"Of course. Just try to keep your mind clear and breath easy as you work. Even my mother had her days when she got a lot to work on and got overwhelmed with orders. She would probably say the same thing."

Rarity gave a light chuckle. Even so, redoing five dresses was going to be rather tedious, but she made a vow to make the perfect dresses for her friends and that is what she is going to do.






Over the week.






Rarity has been hard at work making the necessary touch-ups for the girls' Gala dresses. However, it was slowly getting to her and she beginning to feel exhausted and frustrated, but did her best to keep her composure.

It got harder when she brought her friends in to see the changes and they all had the same thing in mind: it still wasn't perfect enough. So much so, Fluttershy literally bombarded the seamstress with what was exactly wrong with her dress, detailing ever single term that the two knew, much to Rarity's shock as she had no idea she was knowledgeable in sewing.

Needless to say, she was slowly beginning to regret this, as she sews Twilight's gown with the other unicorn pacing about, instructing what she wanted down.

"Now, the stars on my belt need to be technically accurate. Orion has three stars on his belt, not four."








(Rarity) (Twilight) (Applejack) (Rainbow Dash) (Pinkie Pie) (Fluttershy)




Stitch by stitch, stitching it together
Deadline looms, don't you know the client's always right?
Even if my fabric choice was perfect
Gotta get them all done by tonight
Pinkie Pie, that color's too obtrusive
Wait until you see it in the light
I'm sewing them together! 



"Don't you think my gown would be more 'me' with some lollipops?" Pinkie asked as she looks over her dress.

"Well, I think..." Rarity was about to give her input before Pinkie cut her off.

"Balloons?" Pinkie asked again.

"Well..." Rarity responded, only to be shut down again.

"Do it!" Pinkie demanded, leaving Rarity to sigh tiredly.


Hour by hour, one more change
I'm sewing them together, take great pains
Fluttershy, you're putting me in a bind
Rainbow Dash, what is on your mind?
Oh my gosh, there's simply not much time
Don't forget, Applejack's duds must shine
Dressmaking's easy, every customer's call
Brings a whole new revision

Have to pick up the pace, still hold to my vision 
 

"That constellation is Canis Major, not Minor." Twilight said as she points to a chart of the constellation.

"French haute couture, please." Fluttershy pleased quietly

"Ugh..." Rarity groaned.

"What if it rains? Galoshes!" Applejack answered ethusatically.

Rarity just winced.

"More balloons! Oh no, that's too many balloons." Pinkie said as Rarity levitated a bunch of balloons, but then set them aside.

"More candy! Oh, less candy." Same thing, but levitated a bunch of candy before setting them aside too.

"Oh wait, I know. Streamers!" Pinkie yelled proudly.

Rarity just looked at her.

"Streamers?" She asked plainly, before Pinkie gets up into her face.

"Whose dress is this?" She asked directly.

Rarity just answered plainly before giving a sad smile.

"Streamers it is."

She was working on Rainbow's dress, who was just standing behind her leaning against her sewing table, as Rarity just kept glancing back at her and the dress.

Rainbow just raises a brow.

"What?" She asked.

"Aren't you going to tell me to change something too?" Rarity asked, confused.

"No, I just want my dress to be cool." Rainbow replied.

"Do you not like the color?" Rarity pressed.

"The color is fine, just make it cooler." Rainbow replied once more.

Rarity just didn't understand what she meant by wanting it cooler.

"Do you not like the shape?" She asked one more time.

Rainbow just rolls her eyes.

"The shape's fine, just make the whole thing... you know, cooler. It needs to be about 20% cooler." Rainbow answered as she waved her hoof.

Rarity just lightly bangs her head against the manikin, giving up.


All we ever want is indecision 


All we really like is what we know 


Gotta balance style with adherence 


Making sure we make a good appearance 


Even if you simply have to fudge it 

Make sure that it stays within our budget 

Got to overcome intimidation
Remember, it's all in the presentation!
Piece by piece, snip by snip
Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip
Bolt by bolt, primmed and pressed
Yard by yard, always stressed
And that's the art of the dress! 

After that, she simply passed out in exhaustion, with her sketch of her Gala dress on the wall behind her.







Silver decided to come see how Rarity was doing, considering it has been a week since she started revising the dresses. When he got there and saw the dresses, he just gave a look of that just went 'Are you serious?'.

She looks up at Opal, who was standing on the head of the manikin that had her incomplete Gala dress resting on.

"Oh Opal! Oh Silver! These are just the ugliest dresses I ever made!" Rarity said sadly as she rested her head on the floor. Opal, just didn't respond and stood there, her tail swaying around.

Silver sighs and looks down at Rarity as he kneels down, patting her back.

"...Yeah, they are pretty bad." Silver said with a tone to match his mood.

"Well... if this is what the girls want, then this is what they are going to get." Rarity said as she got up.

Soon, the girls arrived as Rarity, looking exhausted and tired. She gave a calm smile to her friends.

"Okay. I did exactly what each of you asked for. Now don't hold back. Let me know what you really think." Rarity said as her friends have a look of awe.

Silver just blanched. The girls, however.

"Oh my!" Twilight said in awe.

"It's... perfect!" Fluttershy exclaimed.

"It's cool!" Rainbow said ecstatically.

"Why, they're the best duds I ever did see." Applejack said in awe.

"It's exactly what I asked for!" They all said in unison.

All the while, Opal just hisses at Twilight's dress, wanting to claw it, before turning around and sees Applejack's galoshes and just held her paw up to her mouth and yacked, expressing her displeasure in the outfits. Silver just couldn't understand these five mares and just facepalms groaning quietly.

"You girls... CANNOT be serious right now... If I was a mare, I wouldn't be caught dead in these!" Silver thought to himself, irritated.

Twilight walks up to Rarity, with a soft grin.

"Thank you Rarity."

Pinkie hops over and excitedly as ever, got up to her face with questions.

"Are you as happy with them as we are? Huh? Huh? Huh?"

Rarity is just taken a back, but gave a forced smile.

"Well, I'm... happy that all of you are happy. I'm just relieved to finally be done." Rarity tiredly said.

And just like that, Silver felt it. He had a hunch when Rarity just said that statement. 

He knew she just jinxed herself.

Because, not too long after that, Spike bursts into the boutique panting.

"You guys are not going to believe this! You've heard of Hoity Toity?" Spike asked.

The girls looked at each other as Twilight gave a skeptical look, as did Silver.

"The bigwig fashion hotshot in Canterlot?" She asked.

Spike nods.

"Uh-huh. He heard about your fashion show. Well, maybe I happened to mention it to him..."

"Spike... you did not..." Silver thought as he softly glared at the baby dragon.

"He's coming here all the way from Canterlot to see your work, Rarity!" Spike exclaimed.

"Whoa, Nelly! You could sell a ton o' dresses to this guy. Your business will be boomin'!" Applejack said in awe.

The girls were all amazed and impressed, as well as proud of Rarity. Rarity though was now on the verge of collapsing onto the floor in shock.

"Hoity Toity? He's coming here? To see THESE dresses?" Rarity asked, in a terrified tone.

Of course, everyone sans Silver doesn't pick up on this.

"Yep! Get ready for all of your dreams to come true." Spike said happily.

Rarity knew how she was feeling now: her dreams were going to be shattered. Her right eye twitches.

"But... but I still have yet to start Silver's outfit! I mean we all agreed that he'd partake in the fashion show too! I don't have enough time to start on it by tonight!" She screamed.

"Rarity! Rarity... It is alright. Just breath." Silver shook her a bit to snap her out of it.

"Now, I know this is a big surprise... really big one, but don't worry about me. I'm willing to sit this one out. I don't want you to get started on my outfit when you just spent a whole week on the girls' 'revisions'. You are going to work yourself into a coma. You need time to yourself, clear your head and most of all rest." Silver explained.

Rarity just meekly looks down.

"Y-your absolutely right Silver. I need a bit of time to gather my thoughts and... process this all as well as rest for a bit. As well as get prepared. The fashion show will begin tonight, so w-we need to get runway set by tonight." Rarity said weakly.

Silver knew what Rarity was going through. She will not be able to rest easy after tonight. This is going to be one long roller coaster of a ride.

Later that evening, ponies began to gather around the runway stage that was set up in front of the boutique. Opal peers her head out of the curtain and looks about as Rarity does the same, seeing the crowd gather. She gasps as she sees on pony in particular strutting past the crowd.

"Oh! There he is...!" Rarity exclaimed to herself, as Hoity Toity kept his head high with a stern look as ponies watch as he approaches the front of the runway. He claps his hooves as a stallion brings a purple pillow for him to sit on, which he proceeds to do, while stallion's who placed the pillow there has his muzzle stuck underneath it as Hoity sits on it.

"Okay. Relax, Rarity. Your friends like their outfits and so will he." Rarity said shakily, but squeals as the lights dimmed.

"Wah! What's going on?! What happened to the lights?!" She asked herself, panicky.

"...Oh, yes... T-the show is starting, good..." She chuckled nervously as she goes back behind the curtain.

Nearby, a white unicorn with a wild blue mane and purple glasses stood behind a turntable as she begins playing some bopping music. The stage lights all turn on as they point down at the runway, the crowd eager to see this show begin.

Spike then begins speaking in a calm, cool tone behind a screen with his shadow appearing as a silhouette.

"Since the beginning of time, the elite of Equestria have longed for pony fashions that truly expressed the essence of their very souls. Patiently waiting decades -- no, centuries -- for the perfect pony gown. Today, at long last, Equestria, your wait is over! Let's hear it for the breathtaking designs of Ponyville's own Rarity!"

The curtains come up, and everyone in the crowd just gave a look of surprise as the girls began to walk down the runway,
in their gawdy outfits. Silver, who was behind stage with Rarity, just looked up at the night sky with a pleading look.

"Luna... give us strength..." He muttered quietly.

The crowd begins murmuring, while staring at the five with disgust and confusion as to what they are wearing. Hoity was just appalled by this.

The center platiform just slowly spins, as more ponies murmurs start getting loudly. Applejack just stares out at the crowd concerned.

"Why's everypony lookin' at us like that? ?" Applejack asked quietly, looking toward Twilight.

Twilight looks down at her gown and up at the stars that just jingled and flopped about as she moved her head. She then realized what was wrong.

"Oh dear." She muttered out.

Rainbow looks at the others.

"You think we overdid?" She asked.

"Nah..." Applejack replied, but then looks down at her galoshes, before changing her mind.

"...Okay, maybe a little."

"Understatement of the century, AJ..." Silver thought.

Hoity just shook his head in displeasure.

"Oh, those amateurish designs look like a piled-on mishmash of everything but a kitchen sink!" Hoity commented, as everyone in the crowd laughed.

Meanwhile, Rarity simply pushes a random kitchen sink with her left hind hoof while looking out in shame.

"It's a travesty is what it is. Those outfits are the ugliest things I've ever seen, oh for shame. Who is responsible for subjecting our eyes to these horrors? Not to mention wasting my valuable time." Hoity asked, as he looks at his wrist.

Rarity starts shaking as she ducks behind Opal.

"Eek! Opal, hide me...!" She said meekly as she closed her eyes and hide behind her cat in fear, with the cat looking away from the crowd, feeling the same as her owner.

Silver smacked his head.

"Oh Celestia... this is not good..."

Spike suddenly ran out to the stage as he looks back toward Rarity.

"Come on out and take a bow, Rarity. You worked really hard for this. Yes! All right, woo-hoo! Go, Rarity!" Spike cheered as Rarity came out, looking down at the floor of the runway as the crowd just stare at her quietly.

Silver just wanted to stuff a bunch of gemstones down Spike's throat for not helping at all.

The crowd begins murmuring as the spotlights are on her, and the girls just rotate around the center platform, giving forced grins, before realizing what they have done.

Days passed since the fashion show, and the girls haven't seen or heard from Rarity since then. The group decided to go check on Rarity, with Pinkie banging on her bedroom door.

"Rarity! Are you okay in there? You haven't come out in days." Pinkie spoke out.

Her response was Rarity being over-dramatic, as she paces back and forth in her room, still in her robe.

"I'm never coming out! I can't show my face in Ponyville ever again! I used to be somepony. I used to be respected. I made dresses. Beautiful, beautiful dresses! But now everypony is laughing at me. I'm nothing but a laughing stock!" Rarity then began sobbing uncontrollably.

"You are not a laughing stock, Rarity..." Twilight reassured her.

"She kind of is." Rainbow said bluntly, only to receive a smack over the head by Silver who just glares.

"Not helping, Dash." Silver said with a deadpanned stare.

Needless to say, Silver was disappointed in the girls. But, he kept his composure not wanting to start something else.

"Please come out and talk to us...!" Twilight pleaded.

Rarity continues sobbing, as she hops onto her bed.

"Leave me alone!  I want to be alone! I want to wallow in... whatever it is that ponies are supposed to wallow in! Do ponies wallow in pity? Oh, listen to me, I don't even know what I'm supposed to wallow in! I'm so pathetic!" Rarity cried out.

The group outside just stared at the door, hearing her cry.

"Now what do we do?" Twilight asked concerned.

"Um... panic?" Fluttershy suggested.

"That's your answer to everything!" Rainbow points out.

"Well we can't leave Rarity like this!" Applejack said in a serious tone, pointing toward the door.

"She'll become a crazy cat lady!" Pinkie shouted in horror.

Twilight gives her a deadpan stare.

"She only has one cat."

"Give her time..." Pinkie said calmly.

Silver just sighed, as he peeks into the keyhole, seeing a row of manikins, before seeing the unfinished dress Rarity was making herself for the Gala.

"Hmm... well, I think there is one thing we could do. Oh, I'm gonna feel bad for this later." Silver said as he turns around to the group.

"You girls want to make it up to her? Well, here's what you should do..." Silver began.

Sometime later, Rarity was just staring at the mirror of herself.

"Exile... I guess technically I'd have to move away to live in exile. Where would I go? And what would I pack? Oh, it's going to take me forever to do all of that packing. What are you supposed to pack when you go to exile? Are you supposed to pack warm?" She asked herself.  

Her thoughts are interrupted when she heard Opal meowing loudly.

"Huh? Opal?" Rarity asked as she goes to open her window and looks outside and sees the poor cat hugging a tree branch in fear, meowing fearfully.

"Opal, how did you get up there? Hang on, you poor dear! Mama's coming!" Rarity yelled as she ran out of her room and outside to the tree, only to stop and sees Rainbow Dash sitting up there with Opal.

"Rainbow Dash! How dare you stick my poor Opal up in a tree?" She spat out in anger.

Rainbow simply grinned as she hovers down.

"Well, how else were we gonna get you out here to show you this?" Rainbow points to the girls as they move out of the way, revealing Rarity's complete dress.

Rarity's eyes widen and her mouth agape.

"What is it? It's not... You..." Rarity gasped.

"We all finished your dress for you." Pinkie hopped up.

"Thanks to Fluttershy's freaky knowledge of sewing." Applejack points out, with Fluttershy blushing cutely.

"Do you like it?" Fluttershy asked.

"Like it?" Rarity asked, her tone becoming serious.

She moved around and examined the dress carefully. 

"Like it?!" She yelled.

"Uh-oh... she doesn't like it." Fluttershy responded sadly.

"No, I do not like it..." Rarity said, facing away from them and eyes closed.

"Aww..." The girls groaned.

Suddenly, Rarity looks back at them with the craziest smile on her face.

"I LOVE IT!!" She declared.

The girls smiled, very happy about the outcome.

"You ponies did an amazing job. It's exactly the way I imagined it." Rarity said in a pleased tone.

"We just followed your brilliant design." Fluttershy pointed out.

Twilight then gave a remorseful look.

"Like we should have let you do for our outfits. Those first dresses you designed were perfect."

"We are super sorry!" Pinkie gave a sadden look as the girls huddled together.

"You worked really hard to make our dresses exactly the way we wanted them. We all saw how well that turned out." Rainbow said as she brought Opal down from the tree, who climbed over onto Rarity's back. 

"Oh, I forgive you." Rarity said with a soft grin.

"Well, that's mighty big of you." Applejack said as she came over.

"But my whole career is still ruined!" Rarity yells out as she become melodramatic.

"Oh, right. That." Applejack muttered.

Twilight frowns, but turns her head and sees Hoity Toity standing beside the boutique. She then grinned.

"Maybe not." Twilight replied.

"All right, I haven't got all day." Hoity said in a uppity tone.

Everyone heads back inside. Hoity stands beside the stage for modeling dresses. Hoity then waved his hoof, and pushed Opal back while she was batting at his ascot.

"Take two!" Hoity waved his hoof up, as Spike and Silver shut the curtains and blinds of the shop.

Rarity steps on stage, giving a confident smile as her horn glows and begins emitting a light show. Show much so, Hoity is just in awe at the sight.

It then shows a starry field where several white and blue stars move and seemingly stick the Twilight's gown, while she turns, waving her hooves up as fireworks explode behind her, and sticks a pose.

"Hello... Oh, this can't be the same designer." Hoity muttered as he moves his shades down to get a better look, impressed.

Suddenly, it transitions to an apple orchard, as a lasso grabs an apple from a tree before showing Applejack waving it around and throwing the lasso off, before crossing her one off over the other, give a rather confident smirk.

"Simply magnificent! And I suddenly have a fierce craving for some Dutch apple pie, candied apples on a stick, apple turnovers, apple cobbler..." Hoity said as pink clouds slowly cover the place. 

Revealing candy falling from the sky as several pieces of candy corn and some lollipops land around the white brim of Pinkie Pie's gown. She manages to catch a green gumdrop with her tongue, before giving a bright smile, while holding her hoof up as if saying 'Ta-dah!'.

"Brillant!" Hoity complimented, before being surprised by thunder and flashes of rainbow lightning. 

The sun is covered by dark clouds, but an array of colors break through the clouds, which transitions into Rainbow Dash flying in the air as her gown flutters in the air, before 'landing' and doing a pose that made her expression cocky.

"Oh, spectacular!" Hoity clapped his hooves together, as Opal was on the other side and giving a soft grin as she too was enjoying this.

Suddenly, they are surprised by large vines growing up from the earth, before becoming flowers. The wind blows all the petals away, and a bunch of butterflies flutter by when a blue one lands on Fluttershy's ear, becoming an accessory. She just give a kind smile as she stood there. 

"Now this is a fashion show! All of these dresses are absolutely amazing. Who is responsible? Step forward, show yourself!" Hoity asked as he looked around.

A bright array of lights shine out, as Rarity walks forward in her gown with her same confident smile, the lights shining around the room like a disco lamp, before they disappear and stops in the center of the stage in a pose, with her friends behind her in the back as the curtains move to the side.

Hoity simply just gushed and applauded the group.

"Brava! Brava! Magnifico! Encore!"

Rarity's heart suddenly flutters as she looks back at her friends, smiling so brightly and looking back down at Hoity.

"Oh, thank you. Thank you! Oh, thank you so much!" Rarity responded.

The fashion over, everyone was just talking among themselves, clearly happy for the end result of the fashion show, and admiring each other's performance. All the while, Twilight has Spike write down her friendship report for Princess Celestia.






Dear Princess Celestia,

This week, my very talented friend Rarity learned that if you try to please everypony, you often times end up pleasing nopony, especially yourself. And I learned this: when somepony offers to do you a favor, like making you a beautiful dress, you shouldn't be overly critical of something generously given to you. In other words, you shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth.




She giggles at the pun.





Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle






Spike nods as he rolls the report up and sends it away with his dragon fire, the smoke moving out the window, as Hoity watched it go. He then approaches Rarity who comes over as well.

"Rarity, my congratulations to you on a most impressive fashion debut. Would you do me the great honor of allowing me to feature your couture in my Best of the Best Boutique in Canterlot?" Hoity asked.

Rarity just gasp as she gives a really playful giggled.

"Now, I'll need you to make a dozen of each dress for me by next Tuesday." Hoity said, leaving Rarity to gasp again, only now she begins twitching her eye.

Silver then goes over to her and pats her.

"Rarity, breath. Relax, this is your moment. You can do this. You and your friends are here, and we have faith in you." Silver reminded.

With that, Rarity stops and closes her eyes and regains composure.

"Forgive me Hoity dear. But I would be honored to abide your request. I shall get started right away and have those dresses sent to you by Tuesday." Rarity said with a confident expression.

"Wonderful! I shall make my leave now. I do look forward in doing more business with you in the future! Ta-ta for now!" Hoity said as he waves and makes his leave.

After he was gone, Rarity almost collapsed and Silver catches her.

"D-Dozen of six dresses... by Tuesday..." She muttered.

The girls come over and console her, and remind her that it will be alright and they are there for her.
> Interlude - The Viridian Mage
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------






Carousel Boutique - Ponyville
Noon






Thanks to Fluttershy's help in sewing, Rarity managed to get the dozen of each of her and her friends' Gala dresses sent to Hoity Toity by Tuesday. Rarity was simply relieved that the whole ordeal with her friends' dresses are done, and now she can finally get working on Silver's outfit. She felt bad for making the young stallion wait weeks to get his outfit started, but he was glad he was patient.

After taking two days off to get her mind cleared from the dresses, she finally gets around to having Silver come over and have his measurements taken, surprised to see a pony this young with a build like this.

Silver comes over as he pulls out his design sketch from his hood.

"Now Rarity, I took it upon myself to make a design sketch for you as I really needed to show you how I want this made. Now, forgive me if it isn't as good as your design sketches, but I did the best I could." Silver said as he unrolls the parchment.





"Oh my word! You designed this?" Rarity asked as she looked over the design.

Silver nods.

"Took me an hour. Why I didn't come over immediately after getting off the train." Silver replied, rubbing the back of his head.

"I must say Silver. Whatever inspiration you got from this design, it must've been a real inspiring one." Rarity replied back.

"You have no idea..." Silver thought.

After discussing the materials needed for the attire, since leather isn't normally found in Equestria for obvious reasons, they had to settle with an alternative sort of fabric that had a similar texture and consistency of leather and have it dyed the green color Silver wanted it to be.

Rarity knew this would be a more challenging design all things considered, but after what occurred the past few weeks, she would do her best to make sure this design Silver made becomes reality.

A week passed since Rarity started working on the outfit, and it was finally completed. It might've been more challenging than working on the same five dresses for her friends twelve times over, but this was a welcoming change of pace. When Silver came to see the outfit, he was just in awe, and only said one word.

"...Excellent."

Rarity was very pleased that Silver liked his outfit, and was eager to see it filled. They invited the girls over as they were just as eager to see what sort of attire Silver would present himself with at the Gala. Rarity stood on the modeling stage as her friends stood the front.

"Thank you for coming girls. Now, after the past couple weeks, I can safely say that this attire that I created for our dear Silver Guardian was more of challenge than working on each of our dresses a dozen times over." Rarity chuckled.

The girls giggled.

"But my friends, the wait is finally over. The time is now to see our dear gentlecolt, in what we decided to dub..." 

The lights turned off and covered the windows as the stage glows bright.

"The Viridian Mage!" Rarity announced, as with the fashion show two weeks prior.

It shows a large, vast field, as a dark silhouette of a pony, wearing what looked to be a robe and a hat. The pony then takes his blade out and does several hard slashes, that seemed to create a light effect each time he slashed. He then manages to twirl his blade around with his hoof before planting it on the ground. He moves past it as he turns to face the group, looking down to the side. The dark sky that surrounded the field soon becomes brighter and the sun shines through, revealing Silver, grinning as he wore a green cap with a feather on the side, and the base having silver plating around it with a blue diamond embedded in the plating. His garments looked to be as thick as leather, dyed a dark forest green with silver linings where made available. The clasp he used for his cloak was now acting like an ascot for the collar of his robe, and seems to be wearing gray leggings and a pair of brown boots on his hind hooves. He also had large pouches on each flank side with a small symbol that represented his cutie mark.

He then silently tips his hat up, grinning, before looking to the side, his cap covering the right side of his face.





The stage then reappears as normal as Silver holds his pose there.

The group then clapped their hooves and cheered.

"That was AMAZING!~" Pinkie squealed loudly in excitement.

"Yeah, that was pretty AWESOME, dude!" Rainbow Dash complimented.

"Oh my... you look more handsome..." Fluttershy said shyly as she hid her blush.

"Yer lookin' mighty spiffy there, Silver! That'll certainly turn some heads at the Gala." Applejack chuckled.

"I agree with Applejack. This is a really unique look for you, Silver. I'm not sure I seen anything like it." Twilight added in.

"Heh, thanks girls. Glad you love this." Silver said, relaxing with a soft grin.

"And I have Rarity to thank for it." He motioned to the white mare, who just giggles.

"Well it was my pleasure Silver darling.~" Rarity replied.

"So, where did you get the idea for this sort of attire, Silver?" Twilight asked.

Silver thought about it. And he just smiled and shrugs.

"Let's just say... it came to me in a dream."
> Chapter 7 - The Best Night Ever
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------






Carousel Boutique
Late Afternoon






The night of the Grand Galloping Gala has finally arrived, and for most of the day the girls have been preparing to get ready for the big event for the past couple weeks, even with all that went down during that time.

Twilight, Spike and Pinkie were all outside Rarity's boutique, with the unicorn trying to focus hard on a spell in a book she was reading, while Pinkie hopped on a small trampoline shouting in excitement for the big night.

"Pinkie! Please stop shouting, I'm trying to concentrate!" Twilight yelled.

Regardless, Pinkie continued to hop up and down on the trampoline, still excited. Rarity opens the door, hearing the shouting as she looks over to see the three, but mostly focuses on Pinkie with a look of concern.

"Pinkie Pie!" Rarity called out, as she approached the pink mare with an annoyed look.

"Stop that right now! It is time to prepare for the Gala, and I will not have you put on your dress while covered in sweat!" She added.

Pinkie, continuing to defy all logic, manages to stop just mere inches from the trampoline before making a solid landing, giving a displeased look. She gets off and proceeds to go over to Spike, who was watching a strongly focused Twilight.

"What's Twilight doing?" Pinkie asked.

"She's got an awesome magic spell she's been working on for the Gala." Spike replied with a grin while watching.

Rarity then walks over to the two, looking around.

"Where are the others? It's getting late."

"Hold your horses, girl! We're here." Applejack answered.

She, alongside Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, all approached the small group with pleased looks on their faces. It was at that moment, Twilight laughed and closed her book.

"Perfect! I'm ready!" She responded.

The girls look at each other, confused.

"Ready for what?" Rainbow asked.

"All right, Spike." Twilight simply replied.

The young drake nods as he places an apple on the ground before the group.

"Oh, an apple! Are we having pie?" Pinkie asked.

"Ssh! Watch!" Spike replied as he points.

Twilight focuses on the apple as her horn lights up and surrounds the apple. The small fruit began to move as it started to swell around and grow bigger. In a quick flash, the apple became a large carriage with a small banner on the stem and ornate design around the door with a heart for a window.

The girls just looked on at amazement.

"Thanks, but that is just the start." Twilight boasted before looking at Fluttershy.

"Fluttershy, did you bring your friends?" She asked.

Fluttershy smiled softly, as four tiny white mice popped up from the mare's mane.

"Yes." Fluttershy replied, before lowering her head down so the mice could get off.

"You sure they will be alright, Twilight?" She asked with a worried look.

Twilight gives her a reassuring look.

"You have my word." Twilight replied.

On that note, she used her magic again. It surrounds the four mice and the grow to a larger size, and become four large horses, while still retaining some features of a mouse like a pink nose and whiskers.

"Ta-da!" Twilight said with a bright grin, pointing up at the horse-mice.

The girls however, all looked rather perplexed and just confused. Twilight didn't seem to notice though.

"Neat, huh? And don't worry, they will turn back to mice at midnight." She reassured.

All was well, until Opalescence peeks out from a nearby bush and notices the large horse-mice and stares wide eyed. She then leaps up into the air, her paws and claws out as she lets out a long meow.

"Opalescence! No!" Fluttershy shrieked in horror.

The excited cat grasps onto the flank of one of the horse-mice, who whinnied loudly in shock, as the one she clawed was able to buck the cat off it and causes the four to gallop away.

"Wait! Come back!" Twilight screamed out.

She then facepalms and sighed.

"Those horses were suppose to pull the carriage. How are we going to get to the Gala?" Twilight asked.

Rarity then gives a knowing grin, as she places her hoof to her head, doing a mock dramatic look.

"Oh no, whatever should we do?!" Rarity cried out.

Before she looks back at Twilight with a soft, but smug, grin. She then approaches two stallions who were talking to each other among a small group of other ponies: Lucky Clover and Caramel Apple.

"Uh... Ahem. Excuse me." Rarity spoke, getting their attention.

She then works her natural charm on the two.

"Uh, would you boys mind pulling our carriage to the Gala?" She asked, staring at them blinking her eyes.

The two ponies gave a rather pleased grin.

Soon after, Lucky and Caramel then pull the carriage and agreed to wait there until it was time to go.

"Oh yeah... Right." Twilight said with a sheepish grin.






Silver's House - Ponyville
Around the same time






Meanwhile, Silver was back at his house having just finished doing his training session and was now getting ready for the Gala. Even with how big the night was going to be, it still didn't stop the young stallion from practicing his skills with the blade. All the while he was getting ready, his mind wanders back to how much time has passed since he returned to Equestria and how it changed his life for the better.

Seeing the Cutie Mark Crusaders going around town to ask the girls about how they obtained their cutie marks in the hopes that it would help the three eager little fillies: Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo who still don't have their cutie marks, get their own cutie marks.

It did surprise him that it was because of the Sonic Rainboom that Rainbow did as a filly that brought all six of the girls together later in their lives, as well as helped them realize their own special talents. When they asked Silver how he got his, he declined to explain how he got it, as it would only bring more memories of his past, considering it was after his mother's death that lead to his resolve to be the pony he wanted to be and earned his cutie mark before leaving home to the Badlands. He didn't want to sadden the young ponies, and show the pain it made him feel every time he looked back on it.

He did, however, explain that he was surprised when he saw Rainbow Dash perform the Sonic Rainboom at the Young Fliers Competition since unlike the girls, he never witnessed the Sonic Rainboom as around the time it happened. By that time, he was already in the Dragon Lands as part of his training. Likely, it only was seen around Equestria and didn't spread far out enough to where the Dragon Lands were located so seeing Dash perform it the second time in her life, was the first time he ever seen it happen. And it was truly amazing, and felt left out for not being with the girls who all witnessed it, and wondered if his life would've changed like the girls if he ever saw it happen as a colt.

However, all that just returned to the thought of Crimson: the enigmatic figure that appears in his dreams ever since that trip back to Ponyville. Why was this figure so interested in him, and in seeing him release his true potential in using magic? He has been trying months and months to figure out how to release his inner unicorn magic, and even with Twilight's help and the resources given to him by Princess Celestia from the royal library, he couldn't still make it happen. Yet, he felt he was getting closer to it, so close that he can feel it, only to be yanked further down the road and continues to chase it.

"If only I knew how it worked..." Silver muttered to himself as he looked at his gemstone.

Sighing, he takes a deep breath and exhales.

"Okay, I shouldn't let this get to me right now. For now, I need to get ready." He said aloud to himself once more.

He went to his closet, where his outfit has been resting on a clothes manikin since Rarity made it for him a month and a half prior. He smiled softly, still taking a liking to it.

"Guess I wouldn't lie if I get any lookers my way wearing this." He said, chuckling.






Carousel Boutique
Near Dusk






Back at Rarity's, the girls were all getting their manes done and polishing their hooves for the big evening. All the while, Spike was eager to get in and see the girls as he kept banging on Rarity's door for the past ten minutes.

"Come on, you guys. Let me in!" Spike moaned loudly.

Rainbow hears him and chuckles as she gets up and walks over to the door.

"Sure thing, Spike." Rainbow said.

Rarity, however, rushes to the door and stops Rainbow and blocks it.

"Heavens no, Spike! We are getting dressed!" Rarity yelled.

Applejack approaches the two.

"Dressed? Uh, beg pardon, Rarity, but, uh... We don't normally wear clothes." Applejack responded.

Rainbow just grinned as if she was going to hold a chuckle in, and Rarity simply rolls her eyes and groaned.

"I'm sorry, Spike. Some of us do have standards." Rarity said, opening the door.

The young drake rushes in, excited as Rarity closes the door.

"I still can't believe we're gonna be at Canterlot tonight. Our hometown, Twilight! And the best part is that we all get to hang out together all night long!" Spike said in an enthusiastic tone.

Some of the girls, however, didn't seem to share the same sentiment as Spike.

"Uh...I-I don't know Spike." Rainbow muttered out.

Rarity was doing her lashes, and checks to make sure she didn't miss any. Even so, she still heard Spike.

"We'll just have to wait and see." Rarity responded.

Applejack was giving Fluttershy a manicure, and decided to do a spit shine, much to the yellow mare's dismay.

"We're gonna be a mite busy." Applejack added as she looked to Spike.

"Yeah!" Pinkie yelled as the hairdryer lifts up.

Her mane was now flat, much similar to how it during the day of Pinkie's birthday when she thought her friends didn't like her anymore and was convinced that was the case before it was revealed that they were hiding the fact they were throwing her a surprise birthday party.

"Busy having fun!" She added, as her mane suddenly re-poofs itself.

Spike suddenly looked glum upon hearing their responses, as he sat down sadly.

"Oh... Okay." He said quietly.

Twilight, applying makeup, just looked to her assistant and gave him a soft smile.

"Don't worry Spike. We'll all get to spend some time together." She said reassuringly.

This perked Spike back up immediately.

"Great!" He exclaimed.

There was then a sudden knock on the door.

"Girls? It's me Silver! Am I allowed to come in?" Silver asked.

Spike gets up and heads to the door.

"Sure Silver!" Spike said.

Of course, Rarity immediately rushes to the door and blocks it again.

"Silver darling! You should know better not to come in when a lady is getting ready to look her best!" Rarity exclaimed.

There was silence for a moment.

"Oh? But Spike is in there... And he was allowed to come in. So why am I the only exception?" He questioned.

"...Rarity? Seriously?" Applejack just gave a deadpan stare at her.

"... ... ... ..." Rarity just stared back, before relenting.

"Ugh! Alright! Alright, he can come in." Rarity groaned as she left the door alone.

"...Boys..." Rarity muttered.

"I heard that Rarity." Silver said as he came in.

Rarity just scrunched her face and blushed, causing the girls to laugh.

"Sorry I didn't get here quick enough. Had to shower after I finished training and walk and not run here. Rather not be drenched in sweat after the day I had." Silver said as he closed the door.

"I find it surprising even though tonight is the single most important night of our lives, you still take the time to train through the day. How are you not exhausted?" Twilight asks as she checks her lashes.

He shrugs.

"What can I say, I just have good endurance." Silver replied, waving his hoof.

Soon, Rarity checked the time before gasping.

"Alright everypony!" She said, clapping her hooves.

"It is now time for us to get dressed and make our way up to Canterlot. I have your dresses down in the showroom all ready to go so you just go find a changing booth and get ready! Let us go, chop chop!~" Rarity said in a sing-song manner.

They all head down as the Gala dresses were in front of several changing booths. The girls go to their respective dress and head into a booth to begin changing. Silver decided to grab his outfit and begin changing in a separate room, while Spike simply went to a nearby mirror and put on his little tuxedo and red bow-tie.

Within ten minutes, they were all dressed and ready to go.  The group all exited the boutique and made their way to the carriage. They saw that the sun was slowly beginning to descend over the horizon, so they were hoping to get to the Gala by nightfall. Silver took notice of the apple carriage Twilight made and was impressed.

Seeing as there was mostly only room for six ponies, Silver opted to sit up front with Spike and let the girls be in the carriage. He figured he keep the young drake company while they rode up to Canterlot.

Silver sat next to Spike, holding his Oak Staff that he used during the unveil of his outfit after Rarity finished it with one hoof.

"Well, I guess we are set to go now. I can tell you are pretty eager to get back to Canterlot." Silver noted.

"Yeah! We haven't been home since we moved to Ponyville for preparing the Summer Sun Celebration, so I am excited to show the girls around and overall hang out together tonight!" Spike replied happily.

Silver chuckles.

"Well considered the amount of times I visited Canterlot, doesn't affect me as much as it does you. But regardless, I am sure tonight will be one to remember." He spoke softly, looking up toward Canterlot in the distance.

"So, what do you plan to do when we get there?" Silver asked.

"Well, I planned out my insider's tour of Canterlot! I've gotta show Rarity the crown jewels, and Applejack the Princess's golden apple tree. And take Pinkie to me and Twilight's favorite donut shop!" Spike relied.

"Donut Joe's?" Silver asked.

"That's the one! You go there too?" Spike asked with a bright grin.

"Dude, who doesn't go to Donut Joe's? Only the best hangout spot in Canterlot. Haven't been there since my last visit though, so I do at least owe Joe a visit tonight." Silver replied with modesty.

The two hear the loud chatter inside the carriage as the girls talked away about how excited they were for tonight.

"Well then, let's get moving! Hyah!" Spike ordered out.

Both Lucky and Caramel turned to glare at Spike.

"Excuse me?!" Caramel yelled.

Spike then sat back into his seat, chuckling nervously.

"Um... I..." Spike sputtered out.

"Oh give him a break you two. He's just very eager is all, let him be." Silver defended.

The two just rolled their eyes.

"If you weren't friends with our neighbor Rarity... Hmph." Lucky huffed as they began going.

Silver couldn't help but hide his chuckle, while Spike just began regaining his composure.





They been on the road to Canterlot, noticing several other carriages heading along the same way to the Gala as well. Along the way, Silver and Spike just chat about different things going on in each other's lives. Considering that the two were the only male party members of a group of six mares, it was nice to be able to have another male figure to talk to. Spike listened about Silver and his time out in the Badlands training and how he is one of the first ponies to actually set foot in the Dragon Lands in centuries, all because he wanted to find a sparring partner and be able to study different combat techniques.

He has somewhat of an understanding with one of the dragons there, whom he sparred with most named Ember. He mentioned how when he first went there, she was more or less a runt of a dragoness, but was eager to prove herself to the older dragons who often thought she wasn't worth much in terms of skill.

Silver saw potential in Ember and decided to see how good she was. Turns out, she was rather nimble and quick to strike, as well as being good with a weapon. While she had speed and the strength, Silver had the endurance and strength to outlast her long enough. Eventually, the two slowly began to respect each other's skill, Ember noting that maybe not all ponies were soft as much dragons believed.

He made it goal to at least go visit once or twice a month to train with Ember, as a means to see how the two brushed up on their skills. Soon, Ember let Silver in on her smithing abilities and told that the Mythril Sword he carried was made by her as a gift and symbol of their bond, hence why he carries it with him as a reminder.

Spike was just happy to learn a little bit of dragon culture, considering he doesn't know a whole lot of his heritage as he was raised by Twilight and within pony society. He hoped one day he could venture out there to see his kind and see how tough they were and learn a bit more.

They eventually changed topics, reflecting on the events that lead up to the big night. With learning about Pinkie and her Pinkie Sense, Rainbow Dash performing the Sonic Rainboom, having to go rescue Rarity from a group of Diamond Dogs who wanted to use her as a slave to help mine for more gemstones, whole thing that went down in Appleloosa between the town and he buffalo tribe, Pinkie's mini freak out over the fact she thought she was neglected and ignored by her friends when it turned out there were just surprising her for her birthday...

A lot has happened for him, Spike and Twilight since they all arrived in Ponyville on the night Nightmare Moon returned and it has changed for the better.

"You know, I never asked but what do you plan on doing when we get to the Gala?" Spike asked.

"Me? Hmm..." Silver thought.

What did he want to do. Sure the girls appeared to have their own goals in mind, but Silver really didn't know what he was excited to look forward to doing.

"Well... I don't really know. Everypony seems eager to do their thing at the Gala but me... I haven't thought about it." Silver answered.

"Really? You never thought about it? Even after all this time since you got your ticket?" Spike pressed, very curiously.

"Well with what was all going on, I never had a chance to think about it. I know my mom used to go to the Gala since she was one of the higher class but I never went myself. This is really the first time in my life I'm going to it. I mean if my mom enjoyed it, then it can't be all that bad, right?" Silver wondered.

"Of course! It is the biggest event in Equestria, so it has to be a fun time! Specially when you are with friends." The young drake replied, as a-matter-of-fact.

Silver thought about it more. He thought about how happy his friends were about the whole thing and just made him smile softly.

"...Spike, I think I know what I look forward to in all this." Silver said calmly.

"Wow that was quick! What came to mind?" Spike asked.

"What I look forward to tonight... Is seeing my friends happy. I just want them to have the best time of their lives, you as well. After everything that has happened these past months, you guys deserve this night... we deserve this night." The stallion replied with certainty.

"Heh, yeah I guess your right." Spike replied.

"You do like looking out for us huh?" He added.

"...Yeah." Silver simply said quietly.






Canterlot Palace
Evening






They finally arrived at the palace as the carriage pulls up in front of the place, between several other carriages. Silver and Spike get off as the former, being a proper gentlecolt, pulls the door open.

"Ladies. We have arrived." Silver said, in a mock noble accent.

The girls step out of the carriage as they look up toward the palace in awe and wonderment.

"Amazing isn't it?" Spike asked as they all looked at the sight.

"It sure is, Spike. I can't believe we're finally here. With all that we've imagined, the reality of this night is sure to make this... The Best Night Ever!" Twilight replied with glee.

Fireworks begin to go off to mark the beginning of the best night ever.








(Rarity) (Twilight) (Applejack) (Rainbow Dash) (Pinkie Pie) (Fluttershy)






At the Gala



At the Gala



At the Gala
In the garden
I'm going to see them all
All the creatures
I'll befriend them at the Gala



At the Gala



All the birdies
And the critters
They will love me big and small
We'll become good friends forever
Right here at the Gala!



All our dreams will come true
Right here at the Gala
At the Gala



At the Gala  (It's amazing)
I will sell them (Better hurry)
All my appletastic treats (Yummy yummy)
Hungry ponies (They'll be snacking)
They will buy them (Bring your money)
Caramel apples, apple sweets (Gimme some)
And I'll earn a lot of money
For the Apple family!



All our dreams and our hopes from now until hereafter
All that we've been wishing for will happen at the Gala
At the Gala



At the Gala
All the royals
They will meet fair Rarity
They will see I'm just as regal at the Gala



At the Gala



I will find him
My Prince Charming
And how gallant he will be
He will treat me like a lady
Tonight at the Gala!



This is what we've waited for to have the best night ever
Each of us will live our dreams
Tonight at the Gala
At the Gala



Been dreamin'
I've been waitin'
To fly with those great ponies
The Wonderbolts, their daring tricks
Spinning 'round and having kicks
Perform for crowds of thousands
They'll shower us with diamonds
The Wonderbolts will see me right here at the Gala!



All we've longed for
All we've dreamed
Our happy ever after
Finally will all come true
Right here at the Grand Gala
At the Gala



I am here at the Grand Gala
For it is the best party
But the one thing it was missing was a pony named Pinkie
For I am the best at parties, all the ponies will agree
Ponies playing
Ponies dancing
With me at the Grand Gala!



Happiness and laughter at the Gala
At the Gala



At the Gala (At the Gala)
With the Princess (With the Princess)
Is where I'm going to be (She will be)
We will talk all about magic and what I've learned and seen (She will see)
It is going to be so special
As she takes time just for me (This will be the best night ever!)



Into the Gala we must go
We're ready now, we're all aglow
Into the Gala, let's go in and have the best night ever
Into the Gala, now's the time
We're ready and we look divine!



Into the Gala



Meet new friends



Into the Gala


Sell some apples


Into the Gala


Find my Prince


Prove I'm great


As a Wonderbolt is


To meet!


To sell!


To find!


To prove!


To whoop!


To talk!



Into the Gala
Into the Gala
And we'll have the best night ever!
At the Gala!







"YEAH!" Spike yelled as he slides before the group to finish it off.

"This is gonna be the best night ever. You know why? 'Cause we're all gonna spend time at the Gala to--"

He was then interrupted as the girls all dashed off in different directions. Silver was the only one behind with Spike who looked dazed and confused.

"...gether. Or not." Spike said, frowning as he sat on the floor.

Silver gave him a reassuring smile.

"Chin up Spike. I know this isn't how you want you night to go, but let the girls have their fun. I mean I'm still willing to hang out with you. Aside from what I said about wanting to make sure you all were happy tonight, I won't leave you behind." He gave the drake a pat on the back.

"Really? You'd stick with me?" Spike asked with a hopeful look.

"Sure. After all we are the only two guys in a group of girls. After all, a bro sticks together right?" He held out his hoof.

Spike grinned as he gave him a hoofbump.

"Heh, right!"

"Now, I want to at least go see the Princess and say hello to her, considering she looks to be greeting the guests." Silver noted.

"Figured we move about the place, mingle a bit, make sure the girls at least have a good time. And then, should we exhaust the time here, we sneak out and head to Donut Joe's and likely see if the girls will show up later. Let us be on our way, my good wingdrake." Silver said as he places Spike on his back.

"Right behind you!" Spike replied.

The two head inside where they see a large amount of ponies in the main hall talking among themselves and mingling. At the top of the stairs leading up to the next floor, they see Princess Celestia greeting all the guests that have arrived and see Twilight heading up to see her.

"Princess Celestia!" Twilight greeted with a bright smile.

"Twilight! It is so lovely to see my star student." Celestia replied, giving her a small nuzzle to the cheek.

Twilight giggles as she nuzzled back.

"Oh, I'm so excited to be here! We have so much to catch up on."

"Well, I want you right by my side the entire evening, so we'll have plenty of time together." Celestia replied, motioning Twilight to stand beside her.

The unicorn just felt very giddy inside.

"That's just what I was hoping you'd say." She remarked.

"Hey!" Yelled out a familiar voice.

Silver and Spike come up the steps and approached Celestia and Twilight. Silver, being polite, takes his hat off and places it over his chest as he bows down before Celestia while still holding his staff in his other hoof, and places the hat back on his head.

Celestia was looking at Silver, noting his attire. Thinking back on what her sister said when they came back to Canterlot on the day Luna returned, she was beginning to understand. The fact his outfit was just like his  couldn't be a coincidence."

"Uh... Princess?" Twilight taps the alicorn's shoulder.

"Hmm? What?" Celestia snaps back to reality.

"You okay? You were staring at Silver very intently." Twilight replied, raising a brow.

"I was? Oh, please forgive me dear Silver. I did not mean to stare like that, it is just I noticed your outfit and couldn't help but notice... It is rather different compared to what the other guests are wearing normally." Celestia said, smiling softly.

Silver just chuckles.

"Oh, that is alright Princess. I mean I knew this outfit would probably have heads turning, but the fact I got a good reaction out of you just shows its working." He replied with grin.

"Either way, both you and Spike look dashing." The alicorn said with a small nod.

Spike just gave a bright grin.

"Thanks Princess!"

Silver looked around.

"Where is Princess Luna? I figured she would've been attending this as well." Silver asked with a questioning look.

"My dear sister has to attend to her nightly duties, and as such isn't able to join us this evening. Plus, she is also still trying to adjust to how much things changed after thousand years being sealed away..." Celestia replied with a soft frown.

"She also feels as though she isn't ready to be out in public among the nobles, who are also adjusting to the fact I am not the only ruling party anymore." She added.

Silver frowns.

"Oh... That is a shame. I just wanted to see how she has been doing since she returned. I haven't seen or heard from her since then."

Celestia just chuckles.

"You are kind to looking out for Luna's well being, Silver. As a matter of fact, she actually wanted to see you personally at some point tonight to discuss something important with you." Celestia remarked.

Twilight, Spike and Silver just blinked.

"Huh? She wants to see me alone?" Silver asked tilting his head.

"What for Princess? Why Silver in particular?" Twilight asked her mentor.

"That I'm afraid is between dear Luna and Silver, my faithful student. It is nothing worrying I assure you, so no need to dwell on it.~" Celestia replied, waving her hoof.

Twilight's ears just flattened.

"Well if you say so, Princess." Twilight said quietly.

"You may go see her at your earliest convenience Silver, so you can go and enjoy yourself at the Gala for now until you are ready to see Luna." Celestia adds.

Silver simply nods.

"Well, we are going to go and see how the others are doing. We'll talk to you later Twilight. Hope you at least have a good evening together." Silver said with smile.

"Thanks Silver. I hope you two have fun as well." Twilight replied with grin.

"Enjoy yourselves." Celestia added with a small nod.

"Sure, let's go Spike." Silver said as he turns around with the dragon on his back.

"Yeah. See you guys later." Spike waved as they move away.

The rest of the girls were going about what they wanted to do for the evening: Rarity followed Princess Celestia's nephew, Prince Blueblood, outside in the hopes to meeting him and engage in conversation with the royal noble. Fluttershy proceeded to head to the palace gardens to search for the exotic creatures that resided there in the hopes of befriending them after hearing a meadowlark chirping out, thinking it was calling to her. Applejack sets up her small wagon to sell several apple related products in the hopes of getting a large profit from the guests there. Rainbow Dash was trying to play it cool by meeting up with the Wonderbolts to hang-out with them. And Pinkie was in the ballroom excited to get everypony there ready to have the time of their lives.

However, that is when it comes to mind for the girls that they soon realize that the best night of their lives wasn't shaping up to be entirely what they initially imagined.

Pinkie started to see that most of the guests weren't really seeing her idea of a party, and just looked at her as if she was a nuisance than anything confusing the pink pony.

Rarity started to see how self-centered Blueblood was being and wasn't at all acting all like a gentlecolt toward her, being rather rude to Rarity.

Fluttershy was having trouble trying to get the animals in the garden to even come near her as they hide from her to the point she is nearly going to snap.

Applejack still didn't make a sale since the pie she sold to Soarin after sixteen minutes of waiting.

Rainbow wasn't able to get most of the Wonderbolt's attention considering how much chatter was going on with other ponies there, not seeing much of them hanging out.

And Twilight was having a hard time trying to even talk to the Princess as more guests arrive and the Princess had to continue to greet them, not able to hold a conversation for long with her star student.

All six girls were thinking the same thing at this point.

"This isn't what I dreamed about."

But all six of them were determined to not let it become this way, they were bent on making this the best night ever and they were going to do it by any means.

This suddenly made Silver stop dead in his tracks, with Spike now following him and seeing stop moving.

"Silver? What's up?" Spike asked.

"...Spike, I got that feeling coming." Silver answered.

"Huh? You mean like one of your 'hunches'?" The drake pressed with a surprised look.

"...The same. I think it is related to the girls." The stallion replied.

"Woah, you sure? I mean I'm not doubting you, considering I believe in Pinkie when her Pinkie Sense goes off, but just curious." Spike shrugs.

"Well, I do believe we have to just go and see. Let us go, good wingdrake. I fear they might do something drastic just to make their nights the best, and by drastic I mean stupid." Silver said as he goes off, with Spike running after him.

"Wait up!" He yelled chasing after the Viridian Mage.





Silver and Spike head outside and find Applejack at her stand, looking rather frustrated.

"Just watch this, Spike." He said quietly to the drake, who nods.

"Hey there AJ." Silver greeted with a soft smile.

"Oh, howdy Silver. Howdy Spike." AJ greeted back, but without much enthusiasm.

"Hmm... I take it you aren't doing too well here huh?" Silver asked, noticing how she only seemed to sell one thing and nothing else.

"I just dun get it, Silver. At first, selling a pie to one of them Wonderbolts was sure enough to help spark some sort of business here... But it isn't turnin' out how I planned..." AJ replied glumly.

"Well, I think it is mostly because the Gala already provides catering inside. Expected yes, but really, those hors d'oeuvres aren't really cracked up to be." Silver explained.

That made Applejack realize her problem.

"Well, no wonder nopony wants my food. They're fillin' up on those fancy-schmancy vittles! I'll just have to prove my down-home apples are plenty good for this crowd." Applejack said with a determined look.

"Yeah, you could do that. Or... You can follow my league and potential stop yourself from doing something rather stupid." He said.

"Just play along." He whispered.

He clears his throat.

"Greetings my good friend. I must be honest, these apple products you have do look simply divine. I mean, I know the Gala has some rather talented culinary artists already catering here, but as one of the many Canterlot elite I do like to be diverse when it comes to eats." Silver said in a rather high-class tone.

Most of the ponies all look at him, getting their attention. Spike was trying to suppress a giggle fit because it was rather humorous to see Silver, who was down to earth most of the time, act like most Canterlot ponies, only for a good cause.

"Now I know what you are all saying, 'But dear chap, why should we even bother with something like these when we are already provide with food for free?'" Silver continued.

"Well my good sir, you will get what you pay for in quality. This lovely mare right here..." Silver walks over to Applejack, who just looks at him with the most awkward look, before she looks around and gives an innocent smile and wave.

"...She is a hard-working, determined pony in society. Now, Applejack dear, could you explain where you are from and your occupation?" Silver asked.

Applejack just took a moment to see she was on the spot, but sort of got the idea at what Silver was doing. With that, she plays along.

"Well partner." She then takes her hat off and places it over her chest.

"I hail all the way from Ponyville. I'm a hard-working pony of Sweet-Apple Acres, which has been a part of Ponyville history since my Granny's parents founded Ponyville. We strive to grow and sell our apples to everypony in Ponyville, all year round." Applejack explained.

"And correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't it because of Princess Celestia that your family was able to start making a living and eventually make Ponyville into the community it is today?" Silver asked.

"That's right partner." Applejack replied with a humble look.

"As you can see my good ponies, Applejack is just as much in the higher class as the rest of you of Canterlot. Her family founded a whole town and started a rather successful business, where all sorts of ponies thrive together. This mare simply wants you good folks of Canterlot to at least sample the deliciousness that is a fine apple product from Sweet-Apple Acres." Silver said as he placed his hat to his chest as he looked up to the sky.

"Help your fellow pony out. You won't come to regret it. After all, she is one of the ponies that did help bring back Princess Luna, being one of the bearers of the Elements of Harmony. She is an Honest and humble pony, and when she says that she sells the finest products that Equestria has to offer, she is telling the truth." Silver places his hat back on his head.

"With that in mind, Applejack? May I have a two apple fritters?" Silver asked.

"And I'll have some apple fries!" Spike said as he hopped onto Silver's back.

Applejack just smiled and chuckles.

"Of course you can, sugarcubes. That would be five bits." She replied.

"Let me Spike." Silver said, as he places five bits on the counter and received the fritters and fries.

"Thank you AJ." Silver nods his head down.

"Don't mention it partner." She waved her hoof.

"I do hope you fine folks take this into consideration. After all as I said: you get what you pay for." Silver added as he took a bite of the fritter and begins to trot past the crowd with Spike in tow.

The ponies all murmured before one eventually walks up to the counter.

"Um, excuse me miss? Would it be alright if I try one of those caramel apples?" The mare asked.

"And could I perhaps try a fritter?" Another pony asked approaching the counter.

Soon a line began to form before Applejack's stand. Applejack couldn't believe she was seeing this, Silver actually got them to come to her just like that. Happiness began to well up inside the mare, before she tries to get order in on her customers.

"Alright! Alright everypony, simmer down a sit. Just form up a neat line and I'll be happy to serve y'all!" Applejack said with glee.

She looks and sees Silver and Spike, with the former looking to her, winking with grin.

She then mouths 'thank you' to him. He nods as the two go off to another part of the Gala with Spike, who was happily munching on the apple fries.

"Wow Silver! That was incredible the way you hooked all those guests to come to AJ's stand like that. How did you do that?" Spike asked.

"Heh, well when you are dealing with the class of Canterlot and knowing how they are, you just got to get to their level, their understanding. Besides, my mom was a pretty good salespony, I just took some cues from her and overtime, improved on my speech and charisma." Silver points out.

"Well, at least Applejack's night would be one to remember, since you helped her out like that. But are you sure we could manage to help the girls' night as well? They are spread all over the place so it would be hard to try to help the rest of them out." Spike noted.

"Well my friend, we just gotta live for the challenge. I say we head back in the ballroom, because I feel that is where we will find Pinkie. Best we get to her, before something of a real doozy happens." Silver said, biting into another fritter.

"You mean more of a doozy than when Twilight finally believed Pinkie and her Pinkie Sense?" Spike laughed.

"This is Pinkie Pie we are talking about, she is a doozy in of it herself." Silver said as the two head for the ballroom.





They reached the ballroom they see Pinkie trying to think of a way to get all the ponies in there to actually have fun. Her attempts have done nothing but simply annoy everyone in the room. She had an idea, but before she could go an enact it, she notices Silver and Spike enter the ballroom.

"Silver! Spike!" Pinkie screamed, much to the dismay of the other guests.

"Oh boy, ponies are not liking Pinkie's behavior. Better step-in quick and resolve this." Silver thought to himself.

"Hey Pinkie." Spike and Silver said at the same time.

"You seem to be having a good time Pinkie." Silver said.

Pinkie then frowned.

"Well I'm trying to show all these ponies how to party, but they don't seem like they get the grasp of what a 'party' is! I was about to talk to the band and get them to play what I like to call 'The Pony Pokey'!" She said with a bright grin.

"Hmm... Well I suppose that would liven up the party. But if I could make one other suggestion, just follow me lead." Silver said with a soft grin.

"Okie dokie lokie then!" Pinkie grinned.

Waiting for the band to finish their current piece, the stallion took it upon himself to get up on stage.

"May I for a moment before you start your next piece? Give you guys a quick five to relax." Silver points out.

They thought for a moment, but simply nod since he asked and didn't act like Pinkie who just rudely bothered them as they played.

"Thank you." Silver bowed.

"Excuse me! May I have everypony's undivided attention?" Silver said through the microphone.

All the guests stopped what they were doing and looked at Silver.

"Good evening. It is wonderful to see a bunch of beautiful and excellent ponies here tonight to enjoy one of Equestria's biggest events of the year, so give yourselves a round of applause for being able to show up here tonight." He said as he stomps his hooves.

At first, the ponies look at him as if he was just as odd as Pinkie, but eventually some begin to follow him and eventually all applaud. For most of them, they were happy to be here tonight.

"Now, from I can gather. The Grand Galloping Gala, is an event that anypony in Equestria would want to be a part of. A time to celebrate, when our fine city of Canterlot was built and completed since the founding of Equestria itself. This has been going strong for centuries, not sure which one this would be as this is the very first Gala I have ever attended, and I am sure there are a lot of you that is the first time you have come here tonight." Silver said.

"Raise of hooves, which of all of you is this the first Gala you attended?" Silver asked, as he raised his hoof.

He saw as several ponies, including Pinkie and Spike, raising their hooves, and claw, up in the air. He was pretty sure he saw Rainbow Dash doing the same who was way in the back near the VIP section.

"Wow, well for the first timers, this is a great treat to be here tonight isn't it?" He asked.

Several of the guests yell out 'Yeah!', 'It is!', and from Pinkie, 'WOOHOO!'.

"That is great. This is great. Now, I wish to reflect this for a moment. The Gala is a time to celebrate the completion of Canterlot, and as such, many of Canterlot's elite are here tonight. As well, many guests not even from Canterlot are attending the event, from Ponyville to Manehatten to Fillydephia to Cloudsdale, as with the Wonderbolts who are attending, and I must say they put on a pretty good performance, am I right? Am I right?" Silver asked.

They all gave yells of agreement and applause as the Wonderbolts themselves just look and felt pride and proud.

"Yeah it is wonderful. Many of us likely came to the Gala in the hopes that they pictured it being the best night of their lives. All of us did, my friends especially did. Like Pinkie here." Silver said as he points to Pinkie, who waves eagerly.

"Hi everypony!~" She yelled out.

"Now, I'm pretty sure she probably soured your mood because of her behavior. But you have to understand something, my fine mares and gentlecolts: Pinkie Pie is regarded as one of the most friendliest, happiest, bubbly little pony you would ever meet. Plus, she is one killer party planner, as this mare is able to plan from birthdays to even events that would likely be on this scale as the Gala. She is that talented in her craft, plus she just loves to make everypony happy and Laugh." Silver points out.

"You ponies, can't tell me for even a fraction of a second... That you got just a tiny bit giddy when you seen this face for the first time."

Pinkie then gives the brightest grin that was just too precious for words. Several ponies, most who were annoyed with her, couldn't help but stay mad at that face and that energy she gave off.

"All my friends have come here tonight, each wanting to make their special night magically. What did you hope you would experience when you came here tonight, Pinkie?" Silver asked.

"Well, I always imagined the Grand Galloping Gala as a huge party with fun and games and laughter! I think of it as the party of parties!" Pinkie answered as she hopped happily.

Some of the guest chuckled.

"But... When I tried to show how excited I was and try to get everypony's spirits up they simply thought the opposite..." She said with a bit of sadness.

"So it wasn't what you were hoping for right?" Silver asked.

She nods.

"Well I can understand that Pinkie. I'm sure everypony here when they first came to the Gala, they had high expectations too,  but were probably let down that it wasn't what they were dreaming about. So don't beat yourself over it too much Pinkie." He pats the pink mare's head.

She then giggles.

"Alrighty then!~"

Several of the guests all looked at each other and started to think about the first time they came to the Gala and likely feeling the same way the girls were feeling now.

"And let's see... Dash!" Silver called out to Rainbow Dash, who was far in the back.

"Wha?" She asked confused.

"What did you hope to do when we came here tonight?" Silver asked.

Rainbow looks toward the Wonderbolts, as they all looked at the mare.

"Well... I hoped to hang out with the Wonderbolts and possibly discuss some awesome stunts and tricks they may or may not know!" She replied.

"And they remembered what you did on the day of the Best Fliers Competition right?" Silver asked.

Spitfire then replied.

"You know it! If it wasn't for Rainbow Dash, I'm pretty sure we wouldn't even be here tonight."

Dash gave a proud grin upon hearing hearing her accomplishment. Silver nods.

"That was one day for the history books in Cloudsdale I bet. Plus... The fact she was able to win the competition while saving your lives, by performing the Sonic Rainboom." Silver pointed out.

"And I'm sure even you all here in Canterlot, saw it. The thing pretty much shot over the sky and would be seen for miles from here to Appleloosa."

Most of the guest nodded and even commented on it as it was something they never seen before.

"Rainbow Dash is a brave, courageous, awesome, but overall the most Loyal pony I ever come to know. She never leaves a friend behind no matter the danger. There is a reason why she is considered the fastest flier in all of Equestria." He added with a soft smile.





Princess Celestia and Twilight continued to greet the guests, much to Twilight's dismay and tired arm from shaking so many hooves. However, they begin to notice how the line started to die down and saw several of the guest all converging toward the ballroom.

"Hmm? Wonder what everypony is doing huddled by the ballroom for." Twilight asked.

"I am not sure. Perhaps we should go see, now that the guests seem more occupied with that than us for the moment." Celestia said as she goes up the set of stairs.

With Twilight following her as they approach another set of doors that overlook the ballroom, hearing Silver's voice talking out.

"Sounds like Silver talking." Twilight points out.

Celestia opens the doors and enters the small booth that overlooks the ballroom, sure enough everypony in the room was focused on Silver who was on the stage before the band talking through the microphone.

"Rainbow Dash is a brave, courageous, awesome, but overall the most Loyal pony I ever come to know. She never leaves a friend behind no matter the danger. There is a reason why she is considered the fastest flier in all of Equestria." He added with a soft smile.

Both the princess and student look at each other and simply listen.





"I'm sure you met the good pony outside at the apple stand. My good friend Applejack." Silver said, noticing several ponies who appeared to be munching on several apple based treats.

"See, I told you that you got what you paid for did I not?" He asked laughing.

"They are simply divine good sir!" One pony replied.

"Perhaps I should request making orders from this Sweet-Apple Acres for more pies." Another pony said.

Silver and Spike grinned as some of the guests begin to head outside to meet Applejack to try some of the food as well after seeing several guests eating some pie slices and fritters.

"Heads up AJ! Got several more coming to ya!" He shouts.

They then heard a faint 'Yee-haw!' outside. Silver, Spike, Pinkie and Dash all laughed, and eventually everypony else in the crowd joined.

"Okay okay that was perfect timing." Silver calmed down.

He then looks up and sees Twilight and Celestia in the balcony overlooking the room.

"Oh, how can I forget my oldest friend I known since I was colt? Twilight Sparkle!" Silver points up at the two, as the guests look up and sees the two.

"W-what is going on here Silver?" Twilight asked feeling awkward with every guest looking at the two.

"Nothing much Bookie, just showing these ponies about having a good time." Silver grinned.

Twilight scrunched her face and blushed, hiding the fact he used that name in front of everypony. Celestia looks down at her and stifles a giggle finding the nickname and her student's response adorable.

"But in all fairness, what can be said about Twilight? A very bright, intelligent, dedicated mare under the tutelage of our fair Princess Celestia. I known Twilight since I was younger and we were pretty good friends, both had a fondness of reading and the like." He chuckled.

"I was happy to see her again after all these years, still the same filly I remembered from my time as a colt. The lust for knowledge grows strong in this one." Silver joked.

The crowd chuckles.

"She is a gifted unicorn, strong prevalence in Magic, and learning all there is to know about the friendship and how it is the most powerful form of magic there is. Call it a 'hunch', but I often think Twilight, as well as all my friends, have a bright future ahead of them. What that future will entail, I do not know."

Twilight looks at him, having regained composure from the pet name, but smiled softly feeling touched by his speech. She never knew he was this gifted in speech. Celestia, taking the words he said about what the future hold for Twilight, she gives a knowing grin. Perhaps this year's Gala was going to be one worth remembering.

"Now, I have two other friends that seem to be missing. Figured they would be here, considering how big the crowd got since I been up here..."

He then thinks and grins.

"Well folks, I just want to say that the Gala is something to celebrate and regardless of your class in society, we are all ponies living in a big world together. This is a party after all, so why not just sit back and kick it?" Silver grinned.

"Now, do you want a party... Or do you want a PAAARTAAY?" He yelled as he points his hoof out.

Soon the room erupts in cheering. Pinkie showing the most excitement.

"Pinkie, come up here for a second." He asked the mare.

"Yeess, Silver?" Pinkie asked.

"I still have to help out Fluttershy and Rarity. For now Spike, hang loose here for now." He explained.

He gives a salute.

"You got it! You were able to turn this all around, now it is starting to feel like a real party!" He replied.

"Pinkie... Now that everypony is likely more relaxed and loose from that speech I went through." He then gets close and whispers something in her ear.

Her eyes widen and grins brightly.

"Oh YEAH! That is my type of JAM!" Pinkie said excitedly.

Silver then looks toward the celloist, Octavia Melody, who was from Ponyville as well after seeing her several times in town. He asked about the fact there was a DJ sound mixer by the stage and she explained that her roommate and friend Vinyl Scratch, better known as DJ-PON3, was also invited to the Gala. She brought her equipment feeling the need that if it was going to be a party that they want to be jammin, much to the dismay of Octavia, but she went somewhere else in the Gala some time ago and hasn't come back. Octavia figures Vinyl wandered somewhere and likely got lost considering the amount of ponies here.

Sure enough, the DJ unicorn soon comes back, wearing purple tinted glasses and headphones with music was playing out of them while she bopped her head to the beat.

"Vinyl! Where have you been? You left like an hour ago." Octavia asked rather cross.

Of course, Vinyl takes her headphones off and simply shrugged.

"Ugh, Vinyl I swear sometimes..." She mumbled.

She then explains about Pinkie's idea that Silver shared and the DJ gave a bright grin and nod knowing exactly what to do, as she starts getting her sound mixer ready.

"Anyway folks, enjoy the rest of your evening. In the meantime, my friend Pinkie is about get this party started for real. Silver Guardian, out!" He then drops the mic as he waves his arm up and exits the stage.

The guests all cheered and applaud as Silver walks off stage and goes past the crowd heading outside to go find Rarity and Fluttershy.





Twilight and Celestia just see as how everypony was just now more lively and even more excited. Twilight was just unable to comprehend it all.

"I-I can't believe it. Silver was able to... Liven up the Gala just by talking to them all."

Celestia, on the other hand, was just pleased.

"You have one special friend my faithful student. The fact that one pony with as much charisma and dedication to help his friends out was able to turn this Gala around... I believe it was the best decision to invite you all here tonight." Celestia said.

Twilight looks up at her.

"Huh? What do you mean by that Princess?" She tilts her head.

"All in good time Twilight. For now, let us enjoy the time we have now. After all, that was Silver's intention for us: to be able to spend the time and talk about you time in Ponyville and what you learned, was it not?" She asked.

Twilight blinks and then grins brightly. She is right, there was nopony able to distract them from talking now. Silver was able to help make Twilight's night more worthwhile.

"It certainly was Princess!" Twilight said with glee.

She then looked to where Silver left as he went outside to the gardens.

"Thank you, Silver..." Twilight said to herself.





Silver wandered outside and heads for the palace garden, where she was sure she heard Fluttershy not acting like herself. Sure enough, when she found her, she was caught in a net after he heard her cackling like a mad mare.

"Uh, Fluttershy? Can I ask why you are in that net?" Silver asked, furrowing a brow.

Fluttershy then stammered.

"U-uh well you see... Um."

He just rolls his eyes chuckling and helps her down.

"Thank you Silver... But why are you out here and not at the party?" She asked.

"I came to look for you and Rarity actually. Believe it or not, I just had a hunch that something was wrong and I'm going about helping you and the girls out." Silver replied.

"You... Had a hunch that I was upset?" She asked tilting her head.

"Hey, when have my hunches ever steered me wrong?" Silver shrugged.

Fluttershy thought for a moment, but sighed.

"It's terrible Silver. No matter how hard I try, I can't seem to get any of the exotic animals to come to me. They always hide from me when I try to approach them." She explains.

Silver listens to how she been trying to do outlandish methods of just trying to befriend the animals, some of which Silver found a bit... Off-putting for her standards.

"I see. Well, Fluttershy you have to understand that the creatures here aren't like the ones back around Ponyville since they are used to being around other ponies and are capable of coming to you without much trouble. The animals here, though, are from different parts of the world and are likely from areas where there isn't much interaction between them and ponies." He explains.

"They are scared because they aren't used to being around a pony or likely never adapted to being around ponies before and are just going off their natural instinct." He added.

"Well... I suppose that makes sense. But, I just really want to show these animals I really mean no harm... And just get to know them better." Fluttershy said sadly.

He pats her shoulder.

"I know Flutters, you are a Kind and gentle pony and love animals to no end. I am sure if you give them the time, start with a type of animal that you are most likely familiar seeing and talking to, and get to know them a bit. Eventually, once the other exotic creatures see you communicate with one and then more, they will eventually come around and come to you." He explained with grin.

"You just need to be patient with them and not rush or force them to come to you... Like you been doing with setting traps. Really Fluttershy, you are the kind of pony not to do that." He said sheepishly grinning.

She nods, acknowledging it.

"Aw... I just feel terrible for doing this to them. I should know better than this as a caretaker of cute animals..." She said glumly.

"Well, seeing as they are able to understand you and you understand them, you should try first to apologize to them for well scaring them and trying to catch them just to talk and befriend them. Just start being yourself, talk to them while they are hiding for a bit and eventually if you play your cards right, they will slowly open up to you and come to you." Silver said quietly.

Fluttershy looked at him and thought about that plan. She knew that animals, exotic or not, were very delicate and vulnerable. Silver's reasoning had logically sense behind it, in that she had to just be herself and treat these exotic animals as a new animal she would see that comes to Ponyville or around the surrounding areas.

"I-I'll give it try... Thank you Silver." The mare smiled softly.

He gives her a small hug, causing her to squeak in surprise and blushed lightly. But eventually she returns the hug.

"Just looking out for my friends is all, so no need to thank me..." He replied.

"Well, I just have to go find Rarity, and see if she found her 'Prince Charming' yet. Good luck to you, Flutters." He gets back up, picking his Oak Staff up and begins walking back.

"..." She slowly nods as she sat there by herself, the animals still hiding.

"Um... Little critters. I-I'm so sorry for scaring you and likely... Tormenting you like this. I'm not really a bad pony, I love animals, and take care of animals back home. I just really wanted to meet you wonderful creatures from outside Equestria, and hope to learn a bit more about you..." She spoke in a soft, gentle tone.

"I understand if you don't want to see me... But, at least give me a chance. So please, come out..." She gently plead.

For awhile, there was no response as Fluttershy sat there alone. She knew she had to be patient and let them come to her. She sighed quietly.

Eventually, some of the more smaller creatures poke their head out and see the pony in a sadden state. After hearing her apologize and giving them a bit of time, they eventually come out from their hiding place and carefully approach the mare.

Her eyes widened, unable to gasp for she didn't not want them to flee again. She then careful places her hoof down as a squirrel she chased earlier approaches and sniffs her really quick. After a few moments, it eventually climbs up to her hoof, causing the mare to smile softly.

"H-hello there, sweetie...~" Fluttershy said in a motherly tone.

Hope was rekindled in here now, as more animals slowly approach her, much to her delight. She now felt more a peace, and it was thanks to Silver for helping her see it.





Silver made his way back toward the outside of the ballroom where he noticed how many of the ponies were enjoying some of the goods Applejack was selling. She was taking the time to count the amount of bits she earned in the span of the past half an hour since Silver helped her.

He approaches her stand with a bright grin.

"Well look at you. Finally became the talk of the party now, eh?" Silver joked.

"Heh, no thanks to you sugarcube. Ponies from inside said that you were talking on stage and moment other guests saw ones that just came from my stand eating some of my treats, suddenly more customers came rolling out. I even got some wanting to order for deliveries here, so that is even a plus!" Said Applejack.

"Well, just looking out for my friends is all. Glad that your night was much more like you imagined." He quipped.

The two talked for a bit, before both heard the sound of two ponies approach from behind.

"Well howdy, Rarity!" Applejack waved to her friend.

Silver turns around, and was happy to see Rarity. However, the moment he saw who she was with just made him groan internally.

"Good evening Applejack. Two apple fritters please." Rarity replied, though with an annoyed tone.

"Two apple fritters comin' up! That'll be four bits." Applejack said as she holds up a pan of two fritters.

Both the ponies stand there, as Rarity clears her throat. This in turn makes Blueblood clear his throat, causing Rarity to clear her throat more forcefully, and Blueblood does the same as he glares at her. Rarity then sighs.

"I am going to have to pay for both of them, aren't I?" She asked.

Silver steps up and places four bits on the counter.

"Allow me Rarity. No worries." He said with a sad smile.

Rarity and Blueblood take both fritters while she looks to the younger stallion, with a guilty look.

"You are such a dear Silver. At least somepony here can show good manners..." She glared at Blueblood who simply ignored her.

He takes a bite into the fritter, before he spits it back out, surprising Rarity and Silver and just earns a hateful glare from Applejack.

"GAH! Fritters! Dumplings! Caramel apples! My royal lips have touched common carnival fare!" Blueblood yelled as he wiped his tounge.

Silver gave a glare at him.

"Hey, Bluebutt. No need for that sort of disrespect. There is nothing wrong with 'common carnival fare'. Better than the high society stuff that they serve here. That can't even sate a pony's appetite for two minutes."

The prince then glares at Silver.

"How dare you commoner! You dare talk to Prince Blueblood with that tongue?"

Silver just grips his staff, really wanting to smack him over the head with it and be done with it.

"I'm not apologizing. You maybe Princess Celestia's nephew, but you are no different than those other uppity nobles who feel they are the center of the world and all other ponies are beneath them. Besides, you likely don't even have any real authority like your aunts do, just using your title because you feel you can get respect for nothing." He argued.

"Also, I am not a commoner. I happen to be of the high class of Canterlot as well, being the owner of the Golden Emerald after my mother passed away. I'm technically the youngest, weathiest pony in Canterlot, and I can talk to you however I feel like..." He pokes him with his staff as he puts emphasis on the last four words.

Blueblood just scoffs as he taps the staff away.

"You continue this berating I will personally have the guards escort you out of the Gala."

"I love to see you try, Bluebutt..." Silver said, getting closer glaring into his eyes.

"That is BLUEBLOOD!" He yelled.

"Big whoop princey. Rarity, if you wanted to find your Prince Charming tonight, you can do much better than this sleaze snob."

"I will show you not to cross with royalty you no good commoner in green!" Blueblood then attempts to get physical by trying to punch Silver.

Rarity and Applejack just gasp, but Silver puts his hoof up and grabs it and holds it tightly.

"Ow... Ow... OW! LET ME GO!" He yelled.

Several guests that were nearby just watched with intrigue as they witness the prince get what was coming to him by this earth pony.

He then looks back at Applejack, as he takes out some bits and puts it on the counter.

"Can I have that pie AJ?" He asked.

Applejack just looked at him, still stunned by this, but nods and gives him the pie as he holds it with his hoof.

"Maybe you should sit down, take moment to reflect on your life choices, and have some PIE."

He then thrusts the pie into Bluebloods face as it splatters all over the place. The crowd just gasped.

The pan falls to the ground as Blueblood just stands that covered in apple filling and crust. He then just screams and gallops off.

"I'M A MESS! MY MANE! MY BEAUTIFUL GROOMED COAT!!"

Several of the guests just held back snickers. He then takes out a handkerchief from his pocket and wipes a bit of pie off Rarity's face and a bit that got on her dress.

"Sorry Rarity. It was that or I take my staff and bash him over the skull. But like I said, you can do much better than him. He was nothing more than a self-centered moron who cared nothing but himself. You deserve a pony that appreciates you for who you are, given your Generous nature and beauty." He said with soft grin.

Rarity's eyes widen, giving a content smile.

"Oh Silver darling. While what you did was very uncouth for a stallion of your age... If you didn't step in then I sure as Tartartus would've taken that pie and make him eat it. But darling, aren't you worried that you will get in trouble? He is the nephew of Celestia and she could be rather upset with you for doing that to him." Rarity said with a look of concern.

"Oh please Rares. If anything, he probably did us all a favor. Nopony spits out one of my fritters and calls it common carnival fare... He lucky I didn't buck him into a tree." Applejack replied with a huff.

Silver looks to the crowd.

"Just be clear: which one of us throw the first punch: me or Blueblood?" Silver asked.

The crowd just looked at each other before replying.

"Blueblood." They all said in unison.

"There we go. It's Bluebutt's word against the guests. He won't be able to win it." Silver said with a grin.

"Now then Rarity, I know tonight wasn't likely what you hoped for and I'm sorry. But, just know you don't need your Prince Charming to have a wonderful night: you have us." Silver said as Applejack stood beside him.

"Heh, he got a point sugarcube. I guess if we take what Spike said earlier today into consideration... Maybe bein' together tonight is a lot more fun than what we were hoping to do tonight on our own." She added.

Rarity thought for a moment before giggling.

"I suppose that is true dears. I do feel terrible for my little Spikey-Wikey... Poor dear wanted all of us together and enjoy the Gala and we made him feel left out."

"No worries, I was able to keep him company. After all, I am the only other male in the group and well... A bro has to stick together." Silver said as he placed his hoof to his chest.

"That is sweet of you Silver. Where is Spikey anyway?" Rarity asked.

"Oh, in the ballroom. Pinkie is getting ready to get this party started after I convinced everypony otherwise... Come on you two." Silver said as he trots on inside.

They soon followed, with AJ bringing her stand inside since most of the guests were indoors. Pinkie was on stage preparing as she saw Silver come in with the two behind him and heads for the stage.

"Silver! You came back!" Pinkie said with glee.

"Yep, I just wanted to know if we are ready." Silver asked.

"Totally!~" Pinkie shrieked.

"Awesome." Silver said as he goes to the mic.

"Alright everypony! Can I have your attention once more?" Silver yelled out as the ballroom quieted a bit.

"Good to see how well this is going since I left. Now to give you all a little bit of a common, fun, and Ponyville flair to this party... Pinkie Pie?" Silver asked as she looked to the pink mare, who stepped up to the mic, grinning madly.

"Hit it DJ!" Silver yelled.

Vinyl grinned as she grabs a record and places it on the mixer, lowering the needle as it begin playing a beat. The rest of the band waited for their cue after being told by Pinkie which part for them to play at.










(Pinkie Pie) (Silver) (Both)


There is a place
Where the grass is what's for dinner


Applejack watches from the back of her stand, as she gets her products restocked.

"Soup's on, everypony!" She yelled, as more ponies approach her stand.


Charmed, fun, and wild


"Yeehaw!" Applejack yelled waving her hat up with her current sales.


There must be something in the water



What?



Sippin' rainbow juice
Talking Elements of Harmony


Rainbow Dash flies over the crowd, somersaulting before landing beside Applejack and Rarity as the girls each hoofbump in the air.

"Yeah!" They cheered.


Our bronies



Heyo!



Hang out too



Come on, bronies!



'Cause they know we're awesome fillies


"Come on, everypony!" Silver yelled as the audience danced along to the beat.


You could travel the world
But no one can groove like the girls with the hooves
Once you party with ponies



Party with the ponies



You'll be seeing Rainbooms!
O-oh o-oh o-ooh!



Equestria girls
We're kinda magical



Equestria!



Boots on hooves, bikinis on top
Furry coats, so cute
We'll blow your mind
Aoaoah oh, aoaoaoh!

Equestria girls
We're pony-fabulous



Equestria!



Fast, fine, fierce, we trot 'til we drop


"Oh!" Rarity yelled from being tapped by surprised by Fluttershy, who just came in after hearing the music.

Fluttershy just gave a apologetic smile, with Rarity just giving her a small hug, smiling.


Cutie marks represent



Cutie marks!



Now put your hooves up



Put yo' hooves in the air!


Everyone in the audience puts their hooves up in the air, cheering.


Aoaoah oh, aoaoaoh!



Break it down, DJ PON-3
These are the ponies I love the most
I wish you could all be Equestria girls


Vinyl breaks it down, as the band, notable Octavia playing her cello in sync with the rhythm, as the musical solo kicks in.


You could travel the world
But no one can groove like the girls with the hooves
Once you party with ponies



Party with the ponies



You'll be seeing Rainbooms!
O-oh o-oh o-ooh!



Equestria girls
We're kinda magical



Equestria!



Boots on hooves, bikinis on top
Furry coats, so cute
We'll blow your mind
Aoaoah oh, aoaoaoh!


Equestria girls
We're pony-fabulous



Equestria!



Fast, fine, fierce, we trot 'til we drop



Cutie marks represent



Cutie marks!



Now put your hooves up



Put yo' hooves in the air!



Aoaoah oh, aoaoaoh!



Break it down once more, DJ PON-3
These are the ponies I love the most
I wish you could all be Equestria girls


The music solo then ends with an echoing beat.








The crowd then goes wild and claps their hooves. Silver and Pinkie, as well as the band grinned and took a bow, with Vinyl bopping her hoof up.

Silver and Pinkie then hoofbump for their performance.

The Gala continued through the evening, but eventually Silver and the rest of the girls found themselves at Pony Joe's after a long evening of partying.

"Well well well... If it isn't Silver, Spike and Twilight Sparkle. Long time no see." Pony Joe grinned.

"Hey there Joe. Large box all around." Silver said as he and the rest head for a table.

"You got kiddo." Joe said as he heads to the back.

"That Gala... Was the best Gala I ever attended." Silver said as he leaned back in his seat.

"And it was all thanks to you Silver. Without you, who knows how it would've went? For all we know, it could've been a disaster!" Twilight replied.

"Plus on top of that, you actually helped all of us achieve what we dreamed for tonight! Everypony actually danced and had fun!~" Pinkie squealed.

"Darn tootin'. I never had this much bits comin in one day! Now I'll be able to fix the roof, Big Mac's plow and get Granny's hip replaced and still have some leftover for other necessities later down the road." Applejack grinned.

"The fact you were able to help the Wonderbolts to notice me more and actually wanted to hang out and talk about the different tricks I knew and could come up with, as well learn their own tricks! I owe you big time for this, dude!" Rainbow clapped her hooves.

"And you helped me by getting to the exotic creatures more. After you left, they slowly came to me and soon I was able to learn about where they came from and promised to visit me in Ponyville some time.~ I learned so much tonight." Fluttershy replied softly.

"And you stood up to Blueblood for me, making me realize that I could've done better with another pony but also realize it would've been more special just by being together with our friends." Rarity added.

"See? I told it would've been even more awesome to just hang out together during the Gala! You stuck with me when we arrived and I actually had fun hanging out with you and help the girls out. It brought us all together." Spike said crossing his arms.

"You were right Spike. It would've been more fun if we all enjoyed the Gala together, but Silver helped us all achieve our best night ever and still made the Gala fun. I was so happy to finally be able to talk to Princess Celestia about all we did in Ponyville, and it was wonderful." Twilight said with a sincere smile.

"Well that was what I was hoping to make my best night ever as:  I just wanted to see that you all were happy. As long as you were all happy, then I'm happy." Silver said, placing his hoof on her shoulder.

"And because you dear Silver, you made this night truly special."

They all look as Princess Celestia comes into the shop.

"Princess!" Twilight grinned.

Pony Joe walks out with their order and smiled upon seeing Celestia.

"Well now, what surprise to see you here this evening Your Highness." Joe bowed.

Celestia chuckles.

"It is good to see you too Pony Joe. May I have my usual?" She asked.

"Coming up Princess." Joe nods.

She goes to the group.

"As I said, that was the best Grand Galloping Gala ever!"

"But Princess, I figured the Gala was always this special." Twilight said with a confused look.

Celestia then chuckles.

"Oh Twilight, the Grand Galloping Gala is actually always awful."

The group just look at each other.

"That is why I was thrilled you were all attending. I was hoping you could liven things up a bit." Celestia explained.

She looked at Silver.

"But you, Silver, were able to exceed my expectations by showing the nobles that were attending to have a fun time, as well as help each of your friends go through their night as they envisioned, and eventually brought everypony together, United under one roof. Everypony, safe for my nephew, all spoke highly of all of you and cannot wait for the next Gala."

He chuckles.

"Hey, I'm just somepony who looks out for his friends."

"And look at it this way, had it not gone the way you all planned, I'm sure you'll agree that in the end it wouldn't have turned out so bad for this group of friends." Celestia explained.

They all thought about and agreed.

"You're right, Princess. Friends have a way of making even the worst of times into something pretty great." Twilight said, realizing the lesson she learned this evening.

"Yeah! As awesome as it was meeting and hanging with the Wonderbolts, it is nothing compared to hanging out with my friends!" Rainbow boasted.

"And just being able to talk...!" Fluttershy said excitedly.

"And having fun!" Pinkie hopped.

"Basically, what I wanted to do this evening." Spike said.

"Again Spike, you are right and we are so sorry." Twilight said, patting the drake.

"And heck, even if tonight would've gotten worse..." Applejack started.

"...being together here has made it all better." Rarity finished.

"You could even say its made it..." Pinkie started.

Everyone sans Celestia cheered.

"...the best night ever!"

They all began to laugh together.





It was a long night for everyone. The Gala has ended, the girls got what they wanted out of the evening thanks to Silver, and Silver was able to turn everything around because of it.

Silver told Celestia that he wouldn't be able to see Luna tonight, considering how tired out he was and understood. She would let Luna know and try to see her at some point tomorrow if possible, before heading back to Ponyville with the girls.

The girls would be able to spend the night in the palace, as Twilight and Spike wished to go visit her parents house and spend the night there since it was so long since the mare and drake seen them, and Silver decided to head to his house for the night. He just wanted to go to bed and sleep the night away. He got out of his Gala attire, hanging it up nicely as he went to bed. He plopped onto his bed and almost immediately let his dreams take him away.





Dreamscape





Silver found himself in the same white void again. Knowing now that this was his dreamscape, he had a feeling that he was going to have a special meeting with Crimson once again. He decided to sit down and just wait.

"...Well, I know you are going to show up again. You might as well make yourself known." Silver said.

Sure enough, a presence did make itself known, however it wasn't Crimson as he expected. His eyes widen.

"Wait... What?"

Standing before him, was Princess Luna.

"Good evening, dear Silver. It has been some time. We wish to speak to you."
> Chapter 8 - A Familiar Face, Lesson in Fire and Health
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------






Dreamscape






"Princess Luna...? What are you doing here, and how are you here?" Silver asked, cocking his head to the side.

The lunar princess simply approached him, giving a calm smile. She has certainly grew a bit since he last saw her, and her mane and tail was slowly beginning to grow longer. It now had some deep shades of dark blue in the lighter blue, as well as slowly becoming like Celestia, in the manner of it being more free-flowing and even sparkling like little stars in the sky.

"We are sure thou recalled that our sister told thou that we were unable to attend the Gala because of royal duties. Well, this is one of our duties in which we have been trying to get back into. As the Princess of the Night, not only does our role mean to bring the night to Equestria and end it to bring about the day, but we also come into the dreams of ponies." Luna explains.

"We are to ensure that everypony has pleasant dreams and help rid any nightmares that anypony might have. Something we have done centuries ago... before we became the Nightmare..." She frowned.

Silver simply listened. He found that amazing, as he never knew Luna was capable of doing something like that before. Granted, he was unaware of Luna's existence up until Nightmare Moon returned.

"I see. But that doesn't explain why you are here now." Silver replied.

"We heard about thou rather... interesting night at the Gala this evening from our older sister. The commotion of the guests could be heard from our quarters, even looking down at those outside on the palace grounds from the balacony. We never knew that one pony with your skill was capable of convincing most of the nobles to act the way they did." Luna responded.

"But that is not why we have come to talk to you. It is about a matter that has been on our mind since we returned." She said waving her hoof.

"Oh?" Silver asked raising a brow.

"For thou see Silver, when we were the Nightmare and you had us at our mercy we noticed something very particular about you. When we saw thou, we saw... another individual." Luna got a bit serious.

"The individual in question... was of a creature that Equestria hasn't seen in so many years. The only few that knew of their existence was both ourselves and Celestia." She added.

"..." Silver was quiet.

A creature that hasn't been seen in so long, and that only the princesses knew about? Silver thought about it and really there was only one individual he could think of that would remotely match that description.

"Now that we think about it, thou dream is rather... strange." Luna said, as she looks around.

Since she arrived, she has noticed how out of the dreams she has visited Silver's dreamscape is rather empty and has begun to notice it.

"Why is it that thou dreamscape is barren and empty? Most of the ponies we have visited actually had something within their dreamscape that was active..." Luna wondered.

Silver simply shrugs. He was going to answer, but both ponies tensed up a moment. For Silver, this was a familiar feeling. But for Luna, she was now wary.

"What is this...? We sense a presence trying to enter this dreamscape..." Luna said now feeling on edge.

"Uh..." Silver muttered out.

Luna looks around, her wings flair out and giving an angry look.

"SHOW THYSELF INTERLOPER! WE SENSE THOU PRESENCE!" Luna shouted in her Royal Canterlot Voice.

Silver just winced, considering how close she was to him and how it echoed loudly in the dreamscape. However, the presence only got stronger as it seemed to listen to the princess's command.

Silver's ears perked up, as he turns around. Sure enough, the 'interloper' turns out to be the apparition of Crimson, who stood there quietly. They appeared to be looking at Luna.

Luna, whose ears also perked up, turns around having sensed Crimson appear. Before she goes to confront him, she stopped dead in her tracks as her eyes widened and mouth was agape.

"I-It can't be..." Luna stuttered out.

"T-Thou are--" Luna was then cut off as Crimson held his arm out.

Without saying a word, the figure appeared to cast a spell as a green orb of power appeared in their 'hoof', and a large gray spectral clock appeared before Luna as the hands on it spun around rapidly before they came to a sudden halt and disappearing. Luna then appeared to just be stuck in position.

Silver's eyes widened upon seeing Crimson use this strong looking magic spell he never seen before.

"W-what did you do to her?" Silver stammered.

Crimson simply held his hand up.

"Relax. She is alright, I simply cast Time Magic on her in the form of Stop. She will return to normal briefly, so I have to be quick since she will stay like that for at least a...five to ten minutes, give or take. I know of the Princess' ability to wander into dreams but I didn't think she would appear here before I arrived..." Crimson explained.

"Wait, you are able to use magic that controls time? What other magic can you use, and is this the magic that I will be able to use? Is that what you meant by being able to teach me to use be more proficient in the blade and spells?" Silver asked rapidly.

"Settle down." Crimson said simply.

Silver then stops speaking.

"First, yes I am familiar with Princess Luna, as well as Celestia. We are, or rather were, old acquaintances from long ago, though I don't remember Luna looking a bit... younger since I seen her last. And second, this is the kind of magic you will learn eventually. When I was here last time, I said that when you unlocked your potential that I would instruct you on the skills I know to make you into what you were destined to be."

"Anyway, I failed to see that in our first encounter... part of your potential was already unlocked." Crimson elaborated.

"Huh? It is...? But I don't feel any different." Silver said with a frown.

"It was only a little bit, however it is there. Think back, were you exposed to any sort of powerful force in the past?" Crimson asked, crossing his arms.

Silver tries to think back. He thought deep and hard, until he remembered.

"...The day the girls found the Elements of Harmony and used them on Luna. She was not herself, been gone for a thousand years, and the power of the Elements were enough to purify the darkness in her heart and returned her to normal. I was within proximity of the rainbow blast that surrounded her, even if I never physically touched it. Maybe that is where it happened?" Silver mused.

The sage, if his eyes were seen they were closed, thought about it.

"It is possible. The Elements are powerful in their own right, and the fact you possess the Mark of the Seventh means that it unlocked something inside you, even if it didn't do it the whole way and well... I think this in itself is a start." Crimson said with a sense of realization.

Silver seemed to understand what he was getting at.

"The Mark of the Seventh... what does that even mean anyway? First I hear a disembodied voice from the Everfree Forest say that to me, and you mentioned the 'mark of destiny' I possess. Are you referring to my cutie mark?" Silver asked, noting the green Delta on his flank.

Crimson nods.

"If we had more time, I would explain it but with Luna here and the spell wearing off shortly, I really didn't wish for her to appear here. Reason she never thought to come to your dreams, is because I was able to keep her from entering without her knowing." Crimson explains.

"...Just how strong are you, Crimson?" Silver asked, raising a brow.

The tall figure remained silent.

"...We have to be quick, as not only is Stop going to wear off, but you are going to soon wake up. Chances are, I have to be quick the next visit before Luna, since now she will be very aware of my presence here and I'd rather be able to work with you without distractions..." He says, looking toward Luna's frozen figure.

He gave a quiet chuckle, before placing his hand on Luna's shoulder.

"...No offense to you, old friend. Now, with the little bit of magic that you do have, even if you can't use your unicorn magic, you should be able to still use a bit of what is there to cast the simplest of elemental spells at my disposal and that is fire magic. Now as excited as you are to hear that, we must hurry while we still have the time." Crimson said in haste.

All of this was happening so fast for Silver. He was going to learn how to use actual magic, and be able to cast fire spells? The girls will freak out, especially Twilight.

"Fire is the most elementary of all Black Magic spells, easiest spell for most beginner mages to learn. As time goes on, you will be able cast more powerful versions of Fire, but will require a lot of mana to use. Since your potential only opened a bit, it is best not to use even a simple Fire spell at your own leisure as this is magic that is outside of Equestria, and you are not attuned to your magic yet. If it was opened more, then you would be able to likely cast Fire with little drain to you mana, but since its not, this will likely make you exhausted after casting it." Crimson explains.

"It is why, you should only use Fire when you absolutely need too. While it might be a weak spell for me, an Equestrian using even a base power Fire spell will be rather strong since ponies can't use Black or White Magic spells, from what I gather... Now, you need to visualize a small ember in your mind and project that image and bring it to life in your hooves." Crimson said, as he demonstrates holding his 'hooves' up and was able to create a small ember of fire.

Silver watched carefully, amazed and curious. His training and attentive mind allowed for him to get an idea how to do it.

Silver closed his eyes, as he sits on his haunches and held his hooves up like Crimson, imagining warmth and small embers of flame in his mind.

Crimson observed, his arms crossed, as he watches the earth pony trying to conjure up a small flame. It took a couple or so tries, but eventually a small ember began to flicker around the hooves. Of course, Silver was amazed.

"I did it!" He shouted proudly.

Crimson remained stoic, but under the face cover was a small grin.

"Very good. Remember to keep focus and your mind clear in order to cast the spell. Even if you are being attacked, you musn't break your focus until you can cast it out like so..."

He turns around as he conjures up a Fire spell, before holding his arm out and the small ember ended up where he was 'aiming' and a small fire erupted up.

"It will take a few tries, but eventually you will be able to cast this and other smaller spells with relative ease. The same can be applied to spells that aid you or others known as White Magic."

"White Magic?" Silver tilts his head.

"Magic from where I am from is split in different schools: Black Magic is for casting elemental and damaging spells like Fire and Ice magic, while White Magic are spells that are to aid you or your teammates in battle like healing their wounds or any negative aliments that has been inflicted on them like poison or blinded by darkness that makes it hard for you to hit a target physically." Crimson explains.

Silver nods, seemingly understanding what he was saying.

"For that, you will learn the elementary spell in White Magic: Cure. This spell is capable of healing wounds and revitalizing the target's vitality, no mattered how grave the injury is. However should that individual be knocked out... or possibly killed, then Cure won't work and that would require the use of Life, but I'm getting ahead of myself." Crimson stopped himself before continuing.

"Much like with Fire, you simply need to tap into your inner mana and visualize in your mind warmth but the soothing kind and the thought of healing. It is a simple spell to do, like so."

A dead flower appears before the two. It was small and withered. Crimson walks over and kneels down before he holds his arm out as a white orb appeared in his 'hoof' and a warm, green glow appeared around the flower, slowly allowing the flower to recover from being wilted to being normal again.

"Wow..." Silver muttered.

"Yes, however be wary that unless you master each tier in spells, then it will be limited in power. As with Cure, it can heal small wounds completely and easily, but larger wounds and fatal wounds wouldn't do much aside from trying to ease the pain. As you grow more experienced in your spells, they become more powerful and as such, your own mana will begin to increase as to support the amount of magic you can use. However, in your case, until your potential is unlocked completely, your use in Black and White Magic will be lacking heavily. Only use these spells if you have no other alternative or it is an emergency." Crimson warned.

"Using too much of your mana will often leave you severely exhausted and drained and you will need to rest some before your mana can restore. And if you are not careful, especially casting the more powerful spells, if you put your entire being into it, it will instead take your life. Remember that well." 

Silver slowly nodded, processing that.

Crimson felt a sudden surge, and looked toward Luna noticing how the Stop spell was beginning to taper off.

"Looks like that is all for now. Practice what you learned here on your own time, but don't go overboard. Remember, only use these spells if the situation is dire. Once your potential becomes more apparent, we will do more. For now, I must go before Luna resumes movement." Crimson said as he steps back, and promptly tips the rim of his hat.

"Until next time, Silver Guardian."Crimson said toward the pony.

He looks at Luna.

"See you when the time is right, Princess..." Crimson muttered before vanishing from site.

Just as he disappears, the spell on Luna wears off and Luna resumes what she was going to say before she was frozen in time.

"--are him!" Luna yelled out as she points her hoof to where Crimson once stood.

Silver just looks at her and where Crimson vanished as an awkward silence fills the dreamscape.

"...Uhh, Luna?" Silver asked.

Luna just looks around confused.

"W-what the... but he was just here a second ago! And now we can't feel his presence anymore..." Luna said to herself.

"Dear Silver!" Luna yelled, startling the smaller pony.

"Gah! Yes princess...?" Silver asked, eyes widened.

"...Please tell us that what we saw was just a figment of our imagination." Luna said in a simple tone.

Silver took a few moments to reply.

"Uh, what you saw was just your imagination?" Silver spoke back, lightly padding his hooves together.

Luna took a few moments and breathed.

"...As we thought." She replied.

Before she can say more, the dreamscape around them began to vibrate.

"Ah... it appears thou are beginning to stir awake. Shame, we weren't able to discuss the topic I wished to talk about with thou." The alicorn said with frown.

"Well, I could just stop by the castle to see you if you want." Silver replied, knowing they don't have long.

She shook her head.

"Unfortunately, since it is close to dawn, we must return to the real world and prepare to lower the moon so our elder sister can raise the sun. After that, our duties for the day will conclude and we shall turn in for the day to rest for later this evening. We shall return to your dream at later date..." Luna concluded.

She bows.

"Until we meet again, dear Silver Guardian. It was wonderful to see thou once more." She said with a soft smile.

Silver smiled and nods.

"Look forward to seeing you again soon, Princess Luna." He waves as everything around them becomes nothing but darkness.






Silver's Home - Canterlot
Morning






Celestia's sun slowly rises as light slowly appears in Silver's bedroom, with the light shining down on his closed eyes. He groans and tries to turn around to ignore it, but eventually his eyes crack open.

Yawning, he rubbed his eyes before getting out of bed and stretches. He goes to do his morning duties: using the bathroom, brushing his teeth, getting his mane fixed up. He would try to do a jog around the streets in Canterlot, but since the girls were in town and were likely going to come over to see him and likely go get breakfast together, he would wait it out at the house for now.

Silver's mind wanders back to his dream, and the fact Luna was able to walk into other pony's dreams like that and came to see him and talk about Crimson, who arrived and nearly freaked Luna out at the sight of him. On the topic of Crimson, he couldn't believe he was teaching him how to use magic that was 'otherworldly' considering that the spells Crimson showed him were likely something not many unicorns could perform, and something the princesses might be able to do, but never seen them do it beforehand or even heard of them using Black and White Magic that the figure in red was a master of. He learned how to cast Fire in his dream, but only was shown how to do Cure and didn't have time to cast it himself since Luna was nearly free from Crimson's Stop spell.

He wonders what Luna was thinking now. She didn't really get to discuss the topic about Crimson considering his sudden appearance and the fact he was waking up. He knew Luna was likely now aware of his existence because chances are she will try to come to his dreamscape again in an attempt to see if Crimson returns, unless the figure was able to prevent Luna from entering his dream beforehand and bar Luna access, as he mentioned that he was able to.

"Hmm... I wonder." Silver muttered all of the sudden.

He held his hoof out, as he begins focusing on it and trying to conjure up a small flame from the Fire spell. He began to felt the warmth in his hoof, as a small red glow slowly began to appear there. He almost had it when sudden knocking from his front door ruined his concentration and the spell fizzled out.

"Huh?! Whose there?" Silver yelled.

"It's us Silver! You ready?" Twilight's voice yelled from outside the door.

He sighed, rubbing his head. Crimson was right: that does take a lot of focus and power to do. He had it easier since in his dream, he could easily cast Fire with little to no problem, but in reality it was straining since his 'full potential' hasn't been released yet and only a small portion of it peeked out.

"I better keep this to myself. Twilight would just be all over me otherwise..." He said to himself as he went to the door.






Canterlot Palace
Morning






The palace staff were hard at work cleaning up from the Gala the previous night, and Celestia was just preparing for her duties for the day and attending the day court. She mused at how wonderful the Gala was and how much of a success it was, all in part thanks to Twilight and her friends, especially Silver who helped make it the best Gala in centuries. She was in on her way to the throne room when...

"SISTER!" Luna screamed, nearly causing Celestia to lose her grip on her tea.

Luna was galloping to the elder sister, who just looked at Luna with concern.

"Lulu! What is wrong? Did something happened?" Celestia asked.

"Forgive us for... using the Royal Tongue this early. But we wish to discuss something to you with great importance!" Luna replied, slamming her hoof down.

"Well then tell my, little sister? What has you worked up this much?" The alicorn pressed.

"It is in regards to dear Silver Guardian. We were able to enter his dreamscape, and on the verge of discussing the topic at hoof, but then... Tia, I saw him." The blue alicorn said, pressing her face against her sister's.

"W-well of course you did, Lulu. Silver was likely going to be in his own dream world when you go there." Celestia replied, taking a small step back.

"No no! Not Silver, we meant him, as in our mutual friend from years ago... He has managed to make contact with Silver... and then he held his arm out and... everything around us froze..." Luna stammered out.

Celestia raised her brow.

"Luna, are you for certain? Are you absolutely sure it was really him?" She asked once more.

"Positive sister... When all was normal again, he was gone, however, and it was just us and Silver. We feel he used his spell to freeze us in time, as if... he didn't want us to know he was there. We remember how gifted he was in magic, using magic that even we ourselves find strain inducing to perform and likely, it was he who was able to lock us out of Silver's dreamscape some nights ago." Luna argued.

Celestia closed her eyes and gave this a bit of thought. This was certainly some news to her, and she trusts in Luna's words and knows she wouldn't be joking with something like this.

"...Then perhaps you were right, dear sister. Perhaps it was fate that Silver would traveling down the path he wished to trot down. If that is the case, then we shall do what we can to help him... For our old friend's sake."

She thinks back to an old stained glass window that once decorated the old throne room of their old castle in the Everfree Forest. While the times have passed and the windows in the old castle have since shattered and crumbled, this one window was still mostly intact. On it, it depicted the Royal Sisters encircling a tall figured garbed in red, wielding a sword with the familiar mark in the center: a dark green Delta triangle... Silver's cutie mark.

The Mark of the Seventh.
> Chapter 9 - The Return of Harmony, Part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Life for Twilight Sparkle and her friends continued to go on as normal in the week after the Grand Galloping Gala. Per usual, Twilight continued on with her studies in magic and learning lessons in friendship by sending her daily reports to Princess Celestia on what she has learned. When she wasn't busy with that, she was continuing to help keep the library organized with Spike's help, and of course spending good days when she wasn't hanging out with her friends reading for leisure.

Applejack was continuing her daily routine at Sweet Apple Acres of bucking apple trees and preparing for the next applebuck season. The money she earned from the Gala came in handy as she was able to do what she planned to do after attending the Gala by putting the bits into helping the farm and her family, as well receiving orders from Canterlot by those that wished to try more of her families' apples.

Rarity was receiving a lot of orders from those who attended the Gala saw the outfits she designed for herself and her friends and wished to have some dresses made by the fashionista mare. Even though she was working day in and day out, she was continuing to do what she considers her passion and wouldn't let the quantity of orders get in her way, when it came to creating quality dresses for ponies out there. Aside from the incident with Prince Blueblood, the Gala for her was something she will never forget and was an enjoyable one, and looked forward to the next one.

Pinkie Pie continued being Pinkie Pie, planning parties and baking the hours away at Sugarcube Corner and spreading laughter with everyone around Ponyville.

Fluttershy continued to care for her animal friends, as well as enjoying the company of her friends that happen to drop by and help her out when she has her hooves full.

Rainbow Dash kept up with her practicing for one day getting into the Wonderbolts, which she kept her hopes high after hanging out with them at the Gala. She had a feeling after their encounter and just chatting with them, she figured it would be a sure sign of getting recruited at the Wonderbolt Academy. Other times, she would continue her friendly rivalry with Applejack in competing to see who is the better and stronger pony.

As for Silver, he often left and came back to Ponyville after business needed to be done at the jewelry store. Ponies remembering him from the Gala and learning he was the colt of the late Golden Veil had made the Golden Emerald garner more business since and didn't want Diamond Dust to be swamped. Because of the business, the two decided it was time to try to hire more workers and the possibility of expanding the business outside Canterlot, namely a branch in Manehatten and Fillydephia.

Outside that, the young stallion would continue to hang out with Twilight and the others when they gathered together to do something fun or often visits each of the girls and sees about helping them out, like helping Applejack out at the apple farm, who went so far as to making him an honorary member of the Apple family after helping her out at the Gala, much to his surprise and honor, or Fluttershy with her animals, or Twilight at the library.

When he was by himself, he continued to train as normal with the blade, even learning how to swing his blade using his tail after watching Applejack swing her lasso around with her tail. It took a lot of time to get the feel and method down, but within a week and a half he was able to do it. He would also often wander to the Everfree Forest to assist Zecora with finding ingredients in the dangerous parts of the forest she herself couldn't venture through alone, or to strengthen his body and mind by battling any of the creatures that just had the tendency to stalk him and try to attack him. All the while doing this, he secretly continued to master his use of Black and White Magic spells under the guidance of Crimson through his dreams. 

Within the couple weeks after learning them, he was able to master the use of Fire and Cure and could advance into learning ice and lightning magic, with the Blizzard and Thunder spells respectively. He still used caution on using them, as while he was able to use the basic spells with little effort it would still leave him strained due to his own unicorn magic not completely exposed to him yet. 

He also took the time to learn about using defensive spells in the form of Protect and Shell, which were identical to shield spells that some unicorns were capable of using to block magic from other unicorns or magic-using creatures, but were much more potent in protection as Protect created a barrier spell that shielded from physical attacks and would reduce the impact they do, and Shell was the same but with magic based attacks.

He continued to keep this sort of information in the dark from Twilight and the others, as he knows how Twilight will be if she learned him using magic that was completely foreign to Equestrians and would be all over him on it. He felt he would only share it should the time come to expose what he is able to do, or should it be an emergency.

All seemed well for Equestria, however everything that has happened so far since Silver and Twilight's arrival in Ponyville many moons ago would only serve as a prelude to things to come...

Silver had this feeling, as while training one day, he was having another hunch... a very strong hunch. He knew something bad was going to happen soon.






Canterlot Sculpture Garden
Noon






It was a bright and beautiful day, as Cheerilee and her students were taking a field-trip to visit the world-famous Canterlot sculpture garden. Consisting of Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, Snips, Snails, and Twist, Cheerilee was pointing out what each of the statues in the garden represented. She points toward one statue that represented 'Friendship' and one they were passing by that represented 'Victory'.

This causes a small debate between the CMC when Scootaloo mentioned if it would be cool to have a cutie mark based on victory. Cheerilee gets them to stop bickering as they come across one particular statue of a strange creature that appeared to have different animal parts to it. It appeared to be joyfully singing to the heavens.

"Alright girls, this statue is really interesting. What do you notice about it?" Cheerliee asked.

"It's got an eagle claw!" Apple Bloom shouted.

"And a lion paw!" Scootaloo added, shouting as well.

"And a snake tail!" Sweetie Belle finished.

Cheerilee smiled from their answers as she points up at.

"This creature is called a draconequus. He has the head of a pony and a body made up of all sorts of things." The teacher responded, before looking at the group.

"What do you think he represents?" She asked.

"Confusion!" Apple Bloom answered.

"Evil!" Sweetie Belle added.

"Chaos!" Scootaloo finished.

Sweetie and Apple Bloom just look at her.

"It's not chaos, you dodo!" The unicorn filly responded with a sneer.

Scootaloo just glares back at Sweetie Belle.

"Don't call me things I don't know the meaning of! And it is too chaos!" She rebutted by getting in Sweetie's face.

"Is not!" Sweetie yelled back.

"You're both wrong!" Apple Bloom said as she got in on the action.

Soon the CMC were on top of each other and just at each other's throats while Cheerilee just looks at the three with an unamused look. All while this was going on, no one noticed that the statue was suddenly pulsating a dark aura.

"Actually, in a way, you are all right." Cheerilee then said calmly while smiling.

This suddenly caused the three fillies to stop fighting and look at their teacher while she continues.

"This statue represents "Discord", which means a lack of harmony between ponies."

The CMC just smile cutely up at Cheerilee as they were happy that they were all right about their answer.

"In fact, you three have demonstrated discord so well that you're each going to write me an essay explaining it." Cheerilee finished, causing the fillies to suddenly frown with disappointment.

The other ponies simply laugh at the three for getting in trouble like that.

"Now let's go, and I don't want anymore fighting." Cheerilee said, frowning at the CMC as they continued on with their tour.

The three quietly argue over their answers again, all unaware of the large cracks that the statue of Discord was forming, followed by a rather sinister cackle coming from the statue itself.






Ponyville
Noon






Some time later in Ponyville, Rainbow Dash was flying around town checking out the weather. All seemed normal, until a pink cloud suddenly shot past her, causing her to spin. Surprised, she glared at the cloud and flew after it.

"Get back here, you!" She yelled.

She managed to catch it by tackling into it.

"Gotcha!" She smirked, before realizing something off about the cloud.

She noticed how... sticky it was for a cloud.

"Eww, what is this?" She shakes the cloud off as it dissipates and just leaving some on her coat, mane, and tail. 

She eyes it and licks it, and just gave a confused look.

"Cotton candy...?" She asked herself.

Soon, shadows hovered above her as more of the cotton candy clouds move in and thunder rumbles through them, and shortly start dripping something brown on her snout.

"Wait a second! It's not supposed to rain until tomorrow. You can't just–" Rainbow yelled as it suddenly starts raining brown liquid all over her.

The pegasus just gives an annoyed look, now more sticky.

"...You did." She mumbled.

Meanwhile, Silver was just enjoying a stroll through town, before he notices the clouds and how they were pouring down the brown liquid. He holds his hoof up, catching some of the liquid and gives it a lick.

"Is that... chocolate milk?" Silver wondered.

He looked up and saw the rainbow blur that was Rainbow chasing the clouds out toward the apple farm.

"...Better go get Twilight. If she hasn't noticed know, she is likely thinking of a way to stop this weird weather." He said to himself as he gallops off to the library.






Sweet Apple Acres






Applejack was busy tending to her corn field, grabbing a stalk of it and tossing it in her wagon. She was about to move onto the next when she stops and sees the pink clouds roll right in as Rainbow was chasing after them.

"Hey, I didn't tell you to go anywhere!" Rainbow yelled.

Applejack was suddenly confused as she realized what was pouring down onto her farm.

"Rainbow Dash! What's going on with this rain? I mean chocolate milk? I mean chocolate milk rain?!" Applejack asked, with a freaked out expression.

Rainbow just looks at her with just as much confusion and shock.

"There's crazy weather all over Equestria! Cloudsdale is getting soaked by a major cola storm right now! But don't worry. I'm not leaving you until I get control of Ponyville!" She declared.

Applejack gave a relieved look, but soon the two hear a 'popping' sound. They notice all the corn in the field were all turning to popcorn and were rapidly covering the fields with it.

They then notice Pinkie Pie, who was enjoying every moment of this strange anomalies, diving into the pile of popcorn and munching on it.

"Why would you want to stop this?" Pinkie asked, slurping up the chocolate rain.

Rainbow and Applejack just roll their eyes, as the former flies off to get a control of the cotton candy clouds, leaving the latter in a pile of popcorn. Rarity, wearing a purple raincoat and umbrella to match, walks over to the farmer with a soft grin.

"Ahem. I heard about your troubles, Applejack, and I came to see if there's anything I can do without getting wet. Or dirty. Or out from under my umbrella." Rarity explained.

Before she could respond, they hear the sound of wood creaking and look up and notice how the apples in the tree are slowly beginning to swell in size. They were becoming to heavy for the trees to hold them up as some start to bend down from the weight.

On top of that, several animals like squirrels were eating the enlarged apples. Applejack notices Fluttershy looking through several trees and watched her animal friends just eating away.

"Fluttershy! Do somethin'!" Applejack pleaded.

Fluttershy nods as she approached one tree and saw her pet rabbit Angel eating an apple. She gave a soft smile.

"Now, Angel, you really shouldn't–" She was cut-off as she watched in horror as her rabbit's legs suddenly grew long like sticks, as did several other rabbits.

"No! It's not possible! I must be seeing things!" The yellow mare panicked. 

"Hey!"

The girls, sans Pinkie who was still slurping away in a puddle of chocolate milk, see Silver alongside Spike and Twilight who was looking in a book.

"Don't worry, everyone. I've learned a new spell that'll fix everything." Twilight boasted, as she closed the book.

She closes her eyes as she charges her horn up and fires off a purple beam of magic into the sky where the clouds were and left off a white flash.

They soon recover and look up, but all saw that nothing happened. Twilight just looked with wide eyes and confusion.

"My fail-safe spell...failed. What do we do?" She asked.

Spike thought for a second and shrugs.

"Uh... give up?" He replied.

"Really Spike...?" Silver responded with a deadpan stare.

Rarity then approaches the three.

"Spike, Twilight will come up with something." She replied.

Twilight smiled and nods.

"Hmm, time for plan B. Rainbow, can you corral all those clouds in one corner of the sky?"

Rainbow gives a determined look and salutes as she flies off and begins flying around rounding up the clouds together in one bigger cloud. She was fighting them, which caused more chocolate milk to rain down in one spot, right onto Pinkie who just had her mouth wide open taking it all in.

Twilight looks toward Applejack.

"Applejack, I need you to bring those high-strung storm clouds down to Earth." Twilight directed.

With that, the farmer grabs her rope and starts swinging her lasso around and tosses at the cloud Rainbow rounded up and managed to snag it, giving a big tug and brings the cloud down to the ground.

It slowly moved away from Pinkie, who noticed that the chocolate rain suddenly stopped. She looked around with an annoyed look.

"Hey! What happened?" She questioned.

Ignoring her, Twilight looks to Fluttershy and suddenly whispers something to her, to which the pegasus grinned at the plan.

"Oh dear. I hope none of the animals see these delicious chocolate-filled cotton candy clouds. I'd hate to have to share them." Fluttershy said in mock voice.

This get all the animals attention and see the large cotton candy cloud that was tied down and immediately go for it.

"You and me both sister!" Pinkie said with a bright grin as she approached the large cotton candy cloud, before getting pushed out of the way by the long-legged rabbits, squirrels and some raccoons who begin eating it, much to Pinkie's displeasure.

"Hey!" She yelled.

Applejack smirked as they all watch their work pay off.

"And when y'all are done with that, feel free to have some popcorn for dessert." She chuckled.

"You see, Spike? You should never give up. There's nothing we can't overcome if we all work together." Twilight responded with a proud look.

Shortly after, Spike then burps out a scroll from the Princess. Twilight then takes it and reads it, and gasps.

"Come on! Princess Celestia wants to see us all in Canterlot immediately!"






Canterlot Palace
Half an hour later






Princess Celestia was pacing back and forth with a look of worry and concern above the stairs of the main hall. He mind was snapped back to reality when she heard the doors open and noticed the seven ponies gallop in.

"Princess Celestia! We came as fast as we could!" Twilight called out as they dashed to the stairs.

Celestia gives a look a relief.

"Thank you Twilight. Thank you, all." She replied.

Twilight begins bombarding Celestia questions about the situation, like the crazy weather, the behavior of the animals, and why her magic didn't work against it all. This prompts Celestia to calmly raise her hoof up for her to be silent.

"Follow me." Celestia simply answered.

The group were walking down a long corridor decorated with beautifully made stained glass windows, the sun shining through them and reflecting what was on the windows down to the floor. Celestia then begins explaining the situation.

"I've called you here for a matter of great importance. It seems an old foe of mine, someone I thought I had defeated long ago, has returned. His name... is Discord." 

Fluttershy squealed frighteningly as she looked up at one window that depicted Discord. She then rushes back to her friends, hiding behind Twilight as the others listended.

"Discord is the mischievous spirit of disharmony. Before my sister and I stood up to him, he ruled Equestria in an eternal state of unrest and unhappiness. Luna and I saw how miserable life was for Earth ponies, Pegasi, and unicorns alike, so after discovering the Elements of Harmony, we combined our powers and rose up against him, turning him to stone." The princess explained further.

Showing them a window of Discord causing chaos and unhappiness to ponies all over, depicted as an earth pony, pegasus, and unicorn being controlled by Discord as if they were puppets and he was the puppeteer. As she went into detail about sealing Discord into stone, they see a window of Luna and Celestia around Discord who was now encased in stone.

"Alright Princess!" Rainbow cheered.

They continued onward.

"I thought the spell we cast would keep him contained forever, but since Luna and I are no longer connected to the Elements, the spell has been broken." Celestia said with sadness.

Twilight tilts her head.

"No longer connected?" She asked herself.

Soon they reached the end and look upon a large door with the sun in the center with a small hole. Celestia looks to the group.

"This is Canterlot Tower, where the Elements are kept inside since all of you recovered them. I need you to wield the Elements of Harmony once again and stop Discord before he thrusts all of Equestria into eternal chaos."

They all give a look of surprise, as Twilight looks up at her mentor.

"But why us? Why don't you–"

She was interrupted by Pinkie who was by another stained glass window with a bright grin on her face.

"Hey look! We're famous!" She yelled gleefully.

They all see the window which depicts the event in which they defeated Nightmare Moon, who was in the center-right of the image, surrounded by an orb of magic that was caused by the six ponies to the far left, with a seventh before them all. Six depicted the girls using the power of the Elements to stop Nightmare Moon, and the seventh showed Silver at the forefront as he appeared ready to strike with his Mythril Sword, reflecting the battle he had prior to her defeat. Even so much that it has him cloaked and with just his muzzle out of the hood.

"You six showed the full potential of the Elements by harnessing the magic of your friendship to beat a mighty foe, and one of you was able to hold their own against Nightmare Moon and help bring the rest of you together." Celestia elaborated looking at the window.

She then looks down to her student.

"Although Luna and I once wielded the Elements, it is you who now control their power, and it is you who must defeat Discord!" She finished as she spreads her wings out.

Twilight listened as she looks down in thought, before giving a look of determination.

"Princess Celestia, you can count on–"

Only for Pinkie to jump in, raising her hoof and interrupting Twilight once again.

"Hold on a second! Eternal chaos comes with chocolate rain, you guys. Chocolate rain!" Pinkie emphasized, as if having chaos and despair for chocolate rain was a trade-off.

Celestia just looked at the pink mare with a raised brow, before Twilight rushes over and sides up to her leg chuckling nervously.

"Don't listen to her, Princess. We'd be honored to use the Elements of Harmony again." She said with a smile.

Celestia simply nods as she approached the door and bows forward and inserts her horn into the hole in the center. The crevices of the door glow blue as the group watch in awe as the door opens up revealing a decorated chest with gemstones on it.

Rarity just got excited at the sight of it.

"Ooh. You can keep the Elements. I'll take that case!" She said in a giddy tone.

The group just rolls their eyes at that as Celestia lifts the chest out of its place and before the group.

"Have no fear, ponies. I have total confidence that you will be able to defeat Discord with these!"

She opens the case, only to reveal that there was nothing in it.

They all gasp, Celestia included as she drops the case. It was then all followed by a distant cackle.

They could only look down at the chest with their mouth agape in shock. Well, everyone except Pinkie.

"Oh, well. If anyone needs me, I'll be outside in the chocolate puddles with a giant swizzle straw." She then prances on out while humming out loud, leaving the group, who all just watched her go, still with wide open mouths.

Silver, the first to recover, ran outside to go grab her. By the time they got back, much to Pinkie's dismay as she was enjoying sucking every chocolate puddle she came across, the girls just watched Celestia as she paced back and forth, very concerned and confused.

"That chamber is protected by a powerful spell that only I can break! This doesn't make sense!" She said, frustrated. 

They then heard an echoing laughter.

"Make sense? Oh, what fun is there in making sense?" The voice taunted.

The group looked around, but Celestia just glared outward.

"Discord... Show yourself!" She ordered out.

They looked around the room, as he chuckles and obliges.

"Did you miss me, Celestia? Discord asks.

They all look to the window of Discord's reign, as a flash where the image of Discord was and suddenly, it began to move and speak as her looks to the alicorn.

"I missed you." He finished, letting Celestia just flair her wings and glare.

"It's quite lonely being encased in stone, but you wouldn't know that, would you, because I don't turn ponies into stone." He taunted. 

His image disappears and appears in another window where it showed the Bearer of the Elements surrounded by the centerpiece of the Elements of Harmony.

"Enough! What have you done with the Elements of Harmony?" Celestia asked in a frustrated tone.

"I simply borrowed them for a teensy little while." He replied with a smirk.

He snapped his paw, as the image of the Elements disappeared.

Celestia stomps her hoof down, in anger.

"You will never get away with this, Discord!" She yelled.

The spirit simply looks at his paw as he lays on the pedestal that the Elements were resting on.

"Oh, I'd forgotten how grim you can be, Celestia. It's really quite boring." He replied in an indifferent tone.

The group all just frown and stare at Discord. It was then Rainbow flew before the Princess and defends her honor.

"Hey! Nopony insults the Princess!" She yelled as she flies at Discord, only to slam head first into the window, which surprisingly didn't break upon impact.

Discord disappeared and reappeared much larger as he looks at the pony, amused, and just laughs.

"You must be Rainbow Dash, famed for her loyalty, the Element of Harmony you represent." 

Rainbow simply crosses her hooves.

"That's right! I'll always be loyal to the Princess!" Rainbow boasted.

Discord just smirked.

"We'll will see about that." He replied.

Rarity just sighed.

"I can't believe we're wasting our time talking to a tacky window." She said, as Discord reappears beside her in the window near her.

"The beautiful Rarity, representing the element of generosity, if I'm not mistaken?" He asked.

Applejack comes over as she gives him a raised brow.

"So you know who we are, big deal." She answered.

Discord just looks at her.

"Oh, I know much more than that, honest Applejack." Discord replied as he grows in size again and disappears once more.

He reappears in another window, looking toward Twilight, Fluttershy and Pinkie.

"You seem to know our strengths..." Twilight responded.

"Yes, Twilight Sparkle, and yours is the most powerful and elusive element, magic. Fluttershy's is kindness and Pinkie Pie's is a personal favorite of mine - laughter." Discord answered, as he laughed.

This only prompted Pinkie to hold back her snicker, before unleashing it. Twilight looks at her and gives her an angry look.

"Pinkie!" 

Pinkie just laughs more.

"He's standing on your head!" She stammered, while Discord dances on the image of Twilight comically.

Celestia, however, wasn't having anymore of it. Pinkie then stopped laughing as she stepped away from the princess.

"Stop stalling, Discord! What have you done with the Elements of Harmony?" Celestia demanded.

Silver just slowly approached as the sound of his blade rising slowly from its scabbard was heard.

"Unless you want me to take my blade and cut you out of that window and warrant a hoof down onto your face, you will tell us what you did with the Elements..." The stallion threatened calmly.

This got the girls to just look at him, wide eyed. They knew he was calm and collective, but that was just dark.

Discord, however, just stared at him and chuckles.

"Oh? Well aren't you the bold kind... Silver Guardian was it?" Discord asked.

Silver just grunts.

"Hmm... you are an interesting one. Having appeared and just happened to bring these little ponies together one day, and since decided to be part of the group, and... you don't even know do you?" Discord taunted.

"...Know what?" Silver asked, still focused on him.

"Oh I could tell you... but I won't! After all, as it seems you are stewing in that little mind of yours about trying to figure out where you fit in all of this, I find it more entertaining to see you struggle on that thought. It is more fun than just outright tell you, no suspense." Discord chuckles.

"Enough! Where are the Elements, Discord?" Silver asked again, anger slowly peeking out of his calm facade.

The spirit was really starting to get to him, and it was troubling. He needed to keep a clear mind when going against this being if they had a chance.

Discord seemed unfazed and simply scoffs.

"Just like Celestia, so boring and just wants to get to the point. Very well then." Discord shrugs.

"I will tell you, but I will only tell you my way. To retrieve your missing Elements, just make sense of this change of events. Twists and turns are my master plan. Then find the Elements back where you began. Good luck." Discord said as he disappears for the last time, leaving the group alone.

Silver, closed his eyes, breathing deeply as he calms down. He slides his sword back into place.

"Can we go home now?" Fluttershy meekly asked.

"What do you reckon he meant? Twists and turns and ending back where we started?" Applejack asked, confused by Discord's riddle.

The group ponders on this, while Twilight thinks aloud.

"Twists and turns... twists and turns..." Twilight then looks outside toward the statue garden, and gasped. 

"Twists and turns! That's it! I bet Discord hid the Elements in the palace labyrinth!" Twilight deduced.

The girls look and then figured it would make sense. Celestia looks to the group and bows her head down.

"Good luck, my little ponies. The fate of Equestria is in your hooves." She said in a more calm tone.

Twilight gives a brave face.

"Thanks, Princess. We won't let you down." 

With that the group makes their way out to the palace labyrinth. Celestia watches them go, praying for her little ponies success. She also saw how Silver's anger almost peeked when confronting Discord, and was concerned if even he could handle the spirit's chaotic nature.






Palace Labyrinth
Afternoon






The group slowly tops at the entrance to the labyrinth, the skies now replaced with dark clouds. Who thought that something like this would make some as innocent as a large hedge maze more sinister. That and Discord's laughter could be heard from within.

Fluttershy, afraid, looks toward the place.

"W-We have to go in there?" She asked timidly.

Rainbow simply grins.

"Nope!" She said as she flairs her wings out.

"Dopey Discord forgot about these babies! I'll just do a quick flyover and we'll have the Elements in no time."

Rainbow flies up, but no sooner she got off the ground, her wings suddenly vanish from her back causing her to fall to the ground with a loud thud.

"What... my wings!" Rainbow shrieked out seeing her missing appendages.

Fluttershy's wings also suddenly vanish, causing her to scream. And Twilight and Rarity's horns both vanish as the two noticed.

"My horn! Your horn! AHH! Both unicorns screamed.

Pinkie, Applejack, and Silver were unaffected by any physical changes. However, Silver's suddenly felt a bit lighter, as he turns to see that his sword suddenly disappeared from its scabbard.

"My blade!" Silver yelled.

Discord suddenly appeared in flash and just laughs at the group. The group huddles close together, a bit frightened by his sudden appearance.

"You–You should see the looks on your faces. Priceless!" Discord laughed.

"Give us our wings and horns back!" Twilight ordered.

"And what did you do with my sword?" Silver glared.

Discord's laughter slows down into a chuckle.

"You'll get them back in good time. I simply took them to ensure there's no cheating." He replied.

"...Coming from the spirit of disharmony, that is ironic." Silver responded with a deadpan tone.

Discord just smirks.

"You are too kind good pony. Now then, this is the first rule of our game: no flying, no magic, and no weaponry." Discord said as he rubs his paw on Twilight's cheek, who was giving an uncomfortable look.

"The first rule?" Rainbow asked with skepticism.

Discord reappears as he reclines on the hedge.

"The second rule is everypony has to play or the game is over, and I win." He said, twiddling his claw and paw together.

"Good luck, everypony! Ahaha!" He then vanished from sight.

The group gives each other a worried look, with Fluttershy shaking.

"Never fear! We still have each other." Twilight said proudly.

"Yeah! Like Twilight said, there's nothing we can't overcome if we all stick together!" Rainbow said with confidence.

The group agreed, smiling.

"All right, let's do this!" Twilight said as the group prepares to enter the maze.

"Together!" They all declared.

As soon as they stepped into the maze, the entrance behind them gets blocked as a series of hedges separate the group, causing them to scream.

"Calm down everypony!" Silver yelled out.

"Silver is right, girls! Everypony head to the middle as fast as you can, and we'll regroup there!" Twilight yelled out.

"Right." Silver replied.

"Moving out!" Rainbow replied.

"See you in the center." Rarity replied.

"Yee-haw!" Applejack cheered.

"See you guys there!" Pinkie finished.

Fluttershy though, still looking scared.

"What's that? Who's there? Girls!" She screamed, as the other already move out.

Applejack was galloping around turn after turn to find the center of the maze.

"Hope everything's okay back in Ponyville. I don't know if Big Mac and Granny have enough butter for all that popcorn..." She said aloud to herself, worried about everyone back in Ponyville and the farm.

She runs past one pathway, but stops and notices something odd: a pile of apples.

"What in tarnation?" She asked herself.

The apples then begin to roll away on their own, causing her to give chase to them. She eventually finds herself in an apple orchard, which she was certain was never here before.

"Where am I?" She asked no one in particular.

That was when an apple fell on her head and began rolling into a pile alongside several other apples. They all began to circle around her, followed by laughing.

"Who are y'all?" She asked the apples.

They all formed into faces that stared creepily at the pony.

The pile of red apples spoke first.

"The keepers of the grove of truth. You may ask us..." 

Followed by the light-red ones.

"...one question..."

Then the green ones.

"...past, future or present."

Applejack just looked at the pile of apples with confusion and nonsense.

"But be warned..." The red apples spoke again.

"...that the truth..." The light-red ones added.

"...may not always be pleasant." The green ones finished.

She didn't want to think this was really happening, but the curious nature of these talking apples were starting to get to her, and her curiosity got the better of her.

"All right then. I don't trust this place worth a hill of beans, but I've got a really bad feelin' about this feller Discord. What's gonna come of this mission we're on?" She asked.

"For the answer you seek..." The red apples started.

"...go ahead, take a peek." The light-red ones finished, motioning to the pool of water.

Applejack then looks into the water, seeing her friends arguing with each other.

"I hope I never see you again!" Rainbow yelled.

"Me too!" Fluttershy replied.

"Fine!" Pinkie yelled.

"Fine!" Rarity argued back.

"It's settled then." Twilight said with a disappointed look.

"Tch... I'm out of here." Silver said plainly.

The group of friends then simply all turn away and leave, their friendship ending. Applejack just looked horrified and confused.

"No!" Applejack held her hoof up to her mouth.

"Our friendship? Over?!" She asked aloud.

She was so stressed about what she witnessed, she didn't hear Discord chuckling as he hovers above her, controlling the applies like puppets.

"It can't be true. It just can't!" She stomped her hoof down.

The red apple pile moved closer to her.

"When all the truth does..."

"...is make your heart ache..." The green pile added, which then mixes in Discord speaking to her.

"...sometimes a lie is easier to take." They all just laugh.

Applejack began to feel different, as if seeing Discord through the apple pile, his eyes having a hypnotic look and she just stares into them. Her color begins to fade away, now looking pale in comparison to her normally bright orange color. Everything around her vanished, leaving her alone in the middle of the maze.

"Applejack!" Twilight called out as she came out from another pathway, happy to find her friend.

"Thank goodness! I thought I heard voices over here. Who were you talking to?" She asked, approaching her.

Applejack just stammers as she looks back at Twilight.

"I was talking to... uh... nopony! Nopony whatsoever!" She scrunched her face as she looks around anxiously.

Twilight frowns and raises her brow.

"What?" She asked.

But Applejack simply trots past her.

"Nothing. Come on, uh, we best be going." She stammered out before going ahead.

Twilight thinks for a moment.

"Did Applejack just...?" She asked herself, before chuckling.

"Come on, Twilight! Applejack wouldn't lie." She said, going after Applejack.

Meanwhile, Silver was wandering about the maze keeping his eyes and ears open. He couldn't trust Discord one bit, as he had a feeling that he and the girls were playing a game where they can't win.

"I hope the girls are alright. Haven't heard from them since we started... figured we all would've wound up meeting each other by now." Silver thought as he looked around.

However, as he moved, something unexpected happened. A bright flash of light obscures Silver's vision.

"Gah! What the...?!" He shielding his eyes.

He heard a faint voice call out to him.

"Huh?" He asked.

"Silver... Silver.... Silver. Come to me, sweetie." The voice sounded clear.

He opened his eyes, and saw himself in a familiar setting: a hospital room. The same room his mother was in when she passed away five years ago, and laying in the bed was Golden Veil herself, as she did before she passed on.

"...No... Oh please not this again. I don't want to go through this all over again...!" Silver started to panic.

"S-silver dear..." Golden muttered weakly.

"Mom! Please hang in there!" Silver rushed over to her, holding her hoof, which felt cold.

She looks at him, not seeing a stallion, but the small colt that witnessed her death those years ago.

"I promise I will save you! Just don't die on me again, please!" He yelled.

"...How long...?" She asked.

"...?" Silver looked at her confused.

"How long must I suffer because of you? Why haven't you found a way to save me? Maybe if you spent more time with me than your friends, I would still be alive." Golden asked, still weak.

Silver just stumbles aback.

"W-what are you talking about...?" Silver gave an incredulous look.

"You let me die, because you really didn't care about me. You are just a selfish colt, who preferred some other ponies than your own flesh and blood..." She echoed.

"M-mom... Why are you acting like this?" Silver was slowly freaking out.

"You will never accomplish what you hoped to achieve. A naive little pony, who just wants to play 'hero' because he wants attention... and doesn't want to face his reality for what it is and just uses this whole facade as a means to cope with pain and guilt for not being able to save me in the end... You should just go back and live alone in that wasteland you wasted your time living out for for the past five years... You were better off that way, training away as a means to cope." Golden said with a frown.

Silver didn't know what to think now. Was everything he has been doing just so he cope with the loss of his mother? He was conflicted now. What was he suppose to do...

"I... I..." Was all Silver could say, before he collapsed to ground now appearing despondent.

"Oh... there there." Golden said as she pat his head.

"Don't feel bad, sweetie. After all, you have me and you don't have to worry about a thing now. All you need to do is let go of your little make-believe dreams and we can be together like you always wanted...~" The mare said, with a soft smile.

Silver just sat there, still feeling a distance away. However, deep down, he just wanted to see his mother's shining smile again, and he could. Maybe he should just let it all go.

Golden appeared out of the bed, beside Silver, now looking better.

"That's it dear... just let everything go... It is for the best." She said softly, unaware of the malicious grin she was giving now.

Slowly, Silver's colors were slowly beginning to fade by letting go of his ideals and accept the reality he was hiding from. It was nearly all drained but stopped as it reached his cutie mark. It was now glowing green. 

"You mustn't let this fool you, dear Silver Guardian... You are in an his illusion world... He is only lowering your mindset, making you lose your willpower to fight him." A familiar voice echoed inside Silver's mind.

This causes his right ear to flicker. That voice, why did it sound familiar?

"You must fight this Silver. Do not let Discord control your mind, as he is doing to your friends now..." The voice continued.

"I shall not let him turn you against your friends... break free from his spell Silver. Remember what your mother told you before she passed... she wanted you to live a happy and fulfilling life... and not grieve for her anymore."

"That's right..." Silver mumbled.

"Hmm? What did you say dear?" Golden asked.

"...This is not real... You're.... you are not real..." Silver said as he stood up.

"Silver dear, what are you talking about? Of course this is real... everything you thought of doing was just in your mind and wasn't what you really wanted to strive for. I am real, this is all real...~" Golden said softly, however everything around them started to flicker.

"...No... No.... NO!" Silver stomps his hoof down, causing the ground to crack, which slowly began to spread throughout the realm.

"None of this... is real. It is nothing but an illusion! My mother... my mother never said anything of this on her deathbed! She wanted me to live a happier life, and not let her death get the better of me... I was young and naive, sure... but it is what I wanted to do in life, and she would've supported my decision! I vowed I never let another one I care about get hurt or lose them...!" Silver yelled, glaring at his 'mother'.

"Silver! Calm down, you are scaring me! You are just acting confused...!" She defended.

"QUIET! YOU ARE NOT HER! I KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING TO ME... DISCORD!!!"

Silver screamed as her lifts his hoof and at full force, punches the illusion of Golden, which causes the rest of the illusion to literally shatter like glass, revealing the maze again, and on top of that he struck Discord in the stomach, surprising the spirit as he yelped and was then sent back into a hedge, leaving a impact of himself as he flew through it.

Silver simply walks toward Discord, fire in his eyes as the draconequus pops back out and suddenly saw how the color on the stallion began to return to normal, and found himself entranced by the amount of anger he was giving off.

"You... how dare use my mother like that... When I get done with you Discord, you are going to wish you were still encased in stone..." He said in the deadest calm tone he mustered.

For once, Discord was actually showing some hint of fear.

"Want to see how well I fare without my blade? Come here and you will find out... because I am going to knot you like a pretzel." The pony said as he was getting dangerously close with the intent of hurting the spirit of chaos, really really badly.

"...W-well, I would love to stay and oblige to your offer b-but... gotta go!" Discord said hastily, as he snapped his claw and disappeared.

Silver stopped, the anger still welling up in him.

"...You better run, because when we find you, don't expect mercy from me, your monster..." The stallion said in a calm tone.

He began to take a deep breath and exhale just as deeply, slowly regaining composure. Any longer, he would buck the next living thing he would see.

"Silver!" 

The pony's ears twitched, as he turns around and spots Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie and Rarity. The latter three, both drained of color and not looking right. Pinkie looked to be rather grumpy and in just as in a bad mood as he was in not long ago, only minor in comparison, Applejack looked as though she stuck her hoof in the cookie jar and was hiding that fact, and for whatever reason, Rarity was carrying a large boulder on her back, ogling at it at times.

"...Twilight, AJ, Pinkie, Rarity. You four are... okay." He said calmly.

"Well we heard screaming over here, and thought you were in trouble. We tried to get her as fast as we could, but Rarity was insistent on carrying her 'diamond' and wanted to take her time..." Twilight said sheepishly.

Silver looks at the three.

"...What are you looking at?!" Pinkie yelled as Silver stared at her.

"...So it is true..." Silver mumbled.

"Huh?" Twilight tilts her head.

"...This is Discord's doing. You really never questioned why those three looked as if the life was drained from them, or how they are acting?" Silver questioned.

"W-well I figured the stress of being in his maze was just getting to them. But... I do admit, something isn't right with them. Pinkie was never this grumpy, specially when it came to her surprise party... Applejack just looks as though she is hiding something and Rarity is... well very dead set getting that boulder--"

"Diamond, Twilight!" Rarity intervened.

"...diamond, all the way home." Twilight said with a worried look.

"...Yep, he is doing what he was trying to do to me: he is making our friends into the opposite of what they represent. Applejack is now a liar, Pinkie is now grumpy, and Rarity... well she has become greedy..." Silver deduced.

"What?! And he almost got you too? What happened?" The purple mare getting up to his face.

"...I'd rather not talk about it. Long story short, he did something that was unforgivable... and I was able to break free of his illusion... by literally punch through it and sending him flying into the hedges." Silver said noting the impact Discord took after Silver hit him.

"You hit him that hard?? And he took it?" She asked.

"For the spirit of chaos, he isn't bright when it comes to foresight, otherwise he would've seen it coming." Silver said turning around.

"I worry for Fluttershy and Dash. He is clearly trying to make this game unwinnable for us. We have to find them before he makes them into the opposites of what they represent." He added before moving forward.

"You're right! Come on girls, we have to hurry!" Twilight said going off after Silver.

"Don't worry Twi, we'll catch up!" Applejack said, who was just walking instead of galloping after them.

"Why should we even care? I hate running!" Pinkie complained.

"But Twilight, my diamond!" Rarity whined.

However, despite their best efforts, they found Fluttershy too late. She was already turned, and was now mean toward the group. Becoming cruel. Suddenly, Silver realized what that dragon felt when the normally timid and kind pegasus was this cruel.

As they all moved forward, they realized they needed to hurry and find Rainbow Dash and find the Elements, only for Applejack to point up in the sky.

"Well, lookie there. Rainbow Dash is flying away. She's abandonin' us." She said in a dead tone.

Twilight rolls her eyes, as she was carrying the boulder on her back, with Silver's help.

"Now I know that's a lie." She said, looking up.

She then gasps, as the group sees Rainbow flying away.

"How can that be?!" She asked.

Soon thunder rumbles as the whole place shakes, and the entire hedge maze sinks into the ground, leaving a large crater. Discord then reappears walking toward the group with a not so amused look.

"Well, well, well. Somepony broke the "no wings; no magic; no weaponry" rule." He said, snapping his claw.

Twilight and Rarity's horns reappear, as do Fluttershy's wings. And Silver's sword reappears in its scabbard.

"Game's over, my little ponies. You didn't find your precious elements." Discord taunts, getting up in Twilight's face.

He steps back, breaking an umbrella out, having it open outside-out.

"Looks like we might be due for a big old storm of chaos." He laughed.

Chocolate rain begins to pour down around them.

"...You know what Discord?" Silver said, causing the group too look at him.

"...Buck the Elements. You should've just stay hidden, because I wasn't kidding when I said I would show you how I go without my weapon... Now, we are going to play by my rules..." He said as he removes the sword and scabbard and drops it onto the ground with a clang.

Discord then just remembered, as he felt the spot he was punched at earlier. He suddenly should've stayed hidden.

"...Oh." Discord simply said, holding his gut.

Silver's eyes, suddenly produced the same fire from before as he slowly approaches Discord. Twilight, even the girls despite their change, noticed the change of aura around Silver and stepped away. Silver was now enraged.

"...Ready for Round 2, you monster...?"






To be continued...





> Chapter 10 - The Return of Harmony, Part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------





Canterlot Labyrinth





Discord just stood there looking at the stallion, before he just starts laughing. Silver didn’t even react, the same scowl plastered on his face.

“Silver! Are you crazy?!” Twilight yelled in disbelief.

Silver didn’t look back, his eyes still glaring on Discord.

“I know what I am doing Twilight. Just take the girls and go, find a way to return them to normal and figure out where the Elements are really hidden. Considering that they weren’t here to begin with...” Silver replied, still in his dead calm tone.

Discord smirked.

“I do believe you would listen to your little coltfriend, dear Twilight. I mean, you thought they were in the labyrinth?”

Twilight gave a look of confusion, as Discord snaps his claws. The two appeared in a flashback in Canterlot Tower, before Discord made his leave and left them all with the riddle.

”Twists and turns are my master plan. Then find the Elements back where you began.”

Smirking, the being of chaos then returns them to the present.

“I never said they were hidden in the labyrinth.” Discord added.

“But... But...” Twilight stuttered.

“Oh do keep trying, dear Twilight Sparkle.” Discord said in a mocking tone.

“Maybe the magic of friendship will help you.”

He begins to walk away, before looking back at Silver.

“And... Alright I admit. Maybe conjuring that illusion of your dead mother was a bit over the top, even for my standards, but as much as I would love to relish in your little vengeance plot dear Silver, but that would have to wait another day. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some chaos to wreak.”

He snaps his paw as he disappears in a flash of light. Soon, thunder rumbles once more as chocolate rain begins pouring down.

“Discord! Get back here!” Silver yelled.

Twilight didn’t know what to think, her friends weren’t themselves as she looks at them seemingly fighting over Rarity’s boulder who was desperately trying to get Applejack and Fluttershy away from while Pinkie was just mocking them from a distance, and Silver was just bent on getting back at Discord. When she heard him mention that he tried to get him by using an illusion of his mother, he couldn’t help but worry for him more. How anyone could be that cruel and disrespectful toward a love one, especially one that has passed on?

All the while, she had to think of what Discord’s riddle meant.

“Think, Twilight, think! ”Find the Elements back where you began.” Back where you began...” She thought aloud.

It was hard for her to think, considering the constant bickering her friends were doing.

Silver, on the other hand, he began shaking, his anger now finally getting the better of him. He then roared to the heavens.

“QUIET!!!!!!!!!!”

He then stomps his hooves down which nearly seemingly caused the earth to shake before settling. The girls just all stopped what they were doing, staring at Silver who just turned around, panting. Anger was seen, all that pent of anger he tried hard to mask, the girls bickering just made him burst. The girls all lean back, Twilight with fear in her eyes, her friends with confusion and caution. They never seen him this enraged.

“Stop you bickering, you four!” He points his hoof to girls around the boulder.

“If I even hear a peep, whine, smart mouthing, or even a hint of fighting, SO HELP ME CELESTIA I will give you girls something to be truly afraid of... I am NOT in the mood to deal with your stupid fighting over a FREAKING ROCK!” He yelled, slamming his one hoof down again, causing a hole to appear there.

Rarity just had her mouth agape, and was about to retort, before she saw his eyes and the fire that was in them. She immediately closed her mouth.

He then breathes in heavily and exhales, before looking at Twilight.

“Think really hard Bookie... ‘Back to where we began.’ Where did this all start?” He said in a calm tone again.

Snapping out of her daze at Silver’s anger, she thought again. That is when she had a realization.

“Of course! ‘Back to where you began!’ The Elements must be back in Ponyville!” She answered with glee.

Silver, calm again, gave a soft grin.

“Good job, Twi. We should make haste for Ponyville then.” Silver said as he retrieves his blade.

“And remember what I said you four: don’t make me cross again...” He said glaring at the four washed out ponies, who still backed away.

He then goes and grabs Rarity’s boulder, by getting it on his back.

“Well thank you Silver darling.” Rarity complimented.

“Only doing it so you don’t whine about it on the way home. Now let’s go.” Silver replied as he began moving with the heavy boulder on his back, with a bit of ease considering his strength.





Ponyville





Considering the fact Discord was back, the group was lucky to still be able to ride the train back from Canterlot, though it took longer than planned considering the argument of bring Rarity’s boulder on board. They eventually did get back to Ponyville, Twilight ahead of the group, anxious to get to the library in the hopes of finding the Elements and figuring out how to restore her friends back to normal.

“I’m certain this is what Discord’s riddle really meant. If we get back to the library, I have a book that I just know can give us a clue.” Twilight said aloud.

Obviously the girls didn’t at all seem interested, Silver not included as he continued to carry the boulder. For a pony that was young, he had strong endurance. Least he was able to get a break from carrying.

His ears perks and looks ahead and gasps.

“Look out Twilight!”

Twilight looks and is suddenly trampled over by a stampede of bunnies with long legs, the lead rabbit being Angel.

“Aww Angel... Momma so proud!” Fluttershy said, smugly.

This caused Silver to immediately glare at her, but were suddenly surprised that it became nighttime already.

“What the-- it’s only 2 in the afternoon. Why is it night?” Silver asked.

“Woah!”

Applejack yelped as she suddenly found herself slipping and sliding down the road that was seemingly made of soap. Twilight was just getting up before she gets knocked over by Applejack and proceeds to slide after her.

The rest found themselves sliding down the road, Silver losing the boulder as it lands on the ground and slides behind him. Eventually the group comes to a stop before.

“Um... I meant to do that.” Applejack blurted out.

It was then Discord skates on by looking down at the two, grinning smugly. After mocking the group, proclaiming Ponyville to be the new chaos center of the world, they eventually reach the library. As the girls enter the place, Twilight notices how their coat color is now even gray than before. Eventually, after literally throwing Rarity’s boulder into the library, later to be known as Tom, Twilight began searching for the book that helped them find the Elements of Harmony with Spike’s help. The drake managed to find it, only for Fluttershy to just snatch it and play keep away with it, with Twilight slowly losing her patience.

Silver was able to time it to where he grab the book, dodging Fluttershy who tried to tackle him and made her fly into a bookshelf instead, and does a quick toss to Twilight who grabs it and held onto the book, glaring at the girls, with Spike holding a mop up to keep them away.

“Get back! All of you! This is my book, and I’m going to READ IT!” Twilight yelled.

She opened the book and much to her surprise, the Elements were inside of it.

“The Elements! They were here all along!”

“This is great! Now you can use them and beat Discord and bring everything back to normal!” Spike replied with just as much enthusiasm.

“You see girls? We found the Elements of Harmony! Together!” She added.

However, the girls just looked bored, Applejack just yawning.

Twilight frowns.

“You don’t even care, do you?” She asked.

“NO!” The girls yelled.

Twilight sighs.

“I never thought it would happen. My friends...” She said with solemn, before glaring at the girls.

“...have turned into complete JERKS!” She yelled.

She then used her magic as she placed each of the Elements on their respective holder, and herself.

“Let’s go!” Twilight yelled as she went for the door.

“Uh Twilight, aren’t you forgetting somepony?” Spike asked.

“Nope. We’ve got the liar, the grump, the hoarder, and the brute. That just about covers it.” She answered.

“What about our turncoat?” Silver asked.

Twilight realized he meant Rainbow Dash, whom they haven’t seen since she flew off from Canterlot. She instead just places the necklace on Spike, who just looked surprised.

“Congratulations, Spike, you are the new Rainbow Dash, now let’s go.” Twilight said going outside.

The girls begrudgingly follow, with Spike just worried if Dash finds out he was impersonating her.

Eventually, Discord reappears outside the library, taking notice the Elements on the girls, and Spike.

“Well, well, well, I see you’ve found the Elements of Harmony. How terrifying!” Discord said in a mocking tone.

Twilight just had about enough of Discord’s antics and just wanted to end this.

“Discord! I’ve figured out your lame riddle. You’re in for it now!”

Of course, Discord at all doesn’t seem serious.

“I certainly am. You’ve clearly out-dueled me, and now it’s time to meet my fate. I’m prepared to be defeated now, ladies.”

He moved his claw around his stomach as a red target appeared there.

“Fire when ready.”

“Formations now!” Twilight ordered.

“Eh.” The girls said bored.

The group began to activate the Elements, with Discord lowering his glasses and observing them surprised to see them function.

However the magic begins to wane and powers down as the girls land back on the ground.

“What is going on?” Twilight questioned.

“Mine’s workin’. There must be somethin’ wrong with yours.” Applejack spoke grimly at Twilight.

“I HATE the Elements of Harmony!” Pinkie yelled.

Fluttershy just took hers off and tossed it.

“Hmph. Garbage.” She said plainly.

Rarity grabs it with a crazy look in her eyes.

“MINE!”

Twilight just frowned even more, as Spike took the Element of Loyalty off and placed it on the ground by her.

“Sorry, Twilight. I guess I’d better get back upstairs and clean up the library. Good luck with all this–”

He was cut off as Fluttershy trips him with her tail.

“Woah!” Spike yelped.

“Oops, sorry, Rainbow Crash.” Fluttershy said mockingly before chuckling.

“Bravo, ponies, bravo!” Discord clapped.

“Harmony in Equestria is officially dead! Discord rules, Celestia drools!” He laughed as he skates off elsewhere.

Twilight growls.

“It’s your fault they don’t work!” Pinkie yelled at nobody in particular.

“Who are you talking?” Twilight asked, raising a brow.

“Any of you! ALL OF YOU!” Pinkie screamed as she walks off.

“I’m outta here!

“I better go, too. I’ve got new better friends waiting for me at the farm.” Applejack second said as she trots past Twilight.

“Yeah! I’m sick of you losers.” Fluttershy third said, flying off.

Rarity was trying to push Tom away, leaving Twilight and Silver there. He couldn’t believe this, they failed. He looks at Twilight, now with worry.

“...Twilight?” He asked.

“FINE!” She suddenly yelled, not paying attention to him.

“Leave! See if I care! I don’t need you guys either! With friends like you, who needs...enemies...?” She quietly said.

She closed her eyes, hope gone, as her coat begins to turn gray, a tear drops on the ground forming a broken heart.

The stallion eyes widen.

“No... Not you too Twilight.” He frowned.

“I’m... I’m sorry Silver. But, it is over...” Twilight said as she walks off sorrowfully, leaving the stallion to watch her.

He closed his eyes.

“...What are we going to do now? There has to be someway to fix this... We can’t give up, not yet.” Silver said to himself.

Twilight just walks through the chaotic Ponyville, ignoring everything that is happening around her. Eventually Discord appears beside her, trying to get her to laugh seeing Berryshine sneeze under a large pepper shaker. He laughed as he watched Twilight not responding, and frowns.

“Come now, Twilight Sparkle. You’ve got to get into the spirit of things! After all, this is your new home.” Discord said, wrapping his arm around her.

“...Not anymore...” She said quietly.

Discord just jumps for joy upon hearing that.

“YES!” He laughed triumphantly.

She eventually makes her way to the library, as the sky turned from day to night once again. She walks in and heads upstairs to her room, finding Spike on the floor groaning as some scrolls laying there.

“Pack your things, Spike, we’re leaving.” She simply said pulling a suitcase from under bed and begins filling it.

She then looks at the Elements she gathered from her friends, and proceeds to toss them in the trash bin. Spike simply groans in response.

“Don’t ask where we’re going, ‘cause I don’t know yet. Just not here...” She replied.

“Can’t...move. The princess...has been sending these...since I came back upstairs. Make it stop!” Spike yelled as he belched another scroll.

“Twilight! You here?” Silver asked as he came in.

He looks around and notices the mess of letters with Spike continuing to belch them out.

“Woah Spike, what happened to you?” Silver asked.

He looks at one of the letters.

“”Real friends don’t care what your cover is.”
“Friendship is a wondrous and powerful thing.”

He read aloud as Twilight looked at one of the scrolls and some of the others.

“These are all the letters I’ve written to the princess since I’ve lived in Ponyville. But why would she send them back?” She asked herself, reading one of the letters.

”And like the path cut through the orchard, there will always be a way through.”
”The best thing to do is stay true to yourself.”
”Everypony has a special magical connection with her friends. Maybe even before she’s met them.”

Upon reading them, she begins to realize what the significance of the lessons are. Hope slowly begins to come back to the unicorn, as the color of her coat suddenly restores back to its lavender color.

“Twilight! You color came back!” Silver pointed out.

She looked at herself, and the letters and gasped.

“Of course! Spike, Silver, it’s all so clear! Can’t you see? Discord’s trying to distract us from what’s important. He knows how powerful our friendships are, and he’s trying to keep us from seeing it. Do you remember what I said the first day we arrived in Ponyville? I told you that the future of Equestria didn’t rest on me making friends. But the opposite is true! The friendships I’ve made since I’ve been here are what saved Equestria from Nightmare Moon. And now they need to save it from Discord!” She explained, all the while of tossing Spike around with her magic, which only made the baby dragon feel worse, before he fell in his bed.

“And I let my anger over what he did get the better of me. I should’ve been more headstrong than this, but what he did was unforgivable in my eyes. Even then, I knew not to give up on you or the girls and I still don’t. Our bonds are stronger than what he realizes, and so we have to fight for our friendship.” Silver replied with a determined grin, before hugging Twilight.

“It kind of hurt seeing you being drained of hope after the girls just left us there hanging. I almost felt like losing hope as well, but... We can’t give up. We have a way to get the girls back to normal!” He added.

Twilight just smiled and hugs back.

“You are right, Silver. Thank you for not giving up on me or our friends. I don’t know how much pain you must’ve felt when Discord tried to make you lose your way or how the girls all changed, but I know now that we have to fight for our friendships! For them. For me. For Equestria!” She declared.

Silver chuckles, happy to see the bookworm back to normal. They blink when they hear Spike groan, Twilight now realizing his problem.

“Oh...uh...why don’t you just stay here and rest? Me and Silver will take care of the whole fighting for friendship thing.” Twilight said sheepishly.

She grabs the Elements from the bin as the two head out, leaving Spike alone moaning and belching another letter.





Sweet Apple Acres





When the two got to Sweet Apple Acres, they were in shock to see how sporadic everything was: pigs were flying in the air, Big Mac was acting like a dog as he dug a hole in the corn field and sticks his head out, panting. They find Applejack lazily sitting against the barn with some apple cores laying on the ground beside her and Granny Smith just dancing her day away.

“And so I tried to defeat Discord, but none of my so-called “friends” would lift a hoof to help me.” Applejack explained to Granny who didn’t seem to be listening.

“AJ!” Silver yelled, getting her attention.

Twilight and Silver approached her, with Twilight giving a determined grin at her friend.

“Applejack, we’re here to fight for our friendship.” She explained.

The farmer just glares at the two as she gets up.

“Is that so? You want to fight, now huh? Where you went when I was battlin’ Discord?” She asked, pumping her hooves out.

Silver simply approached AJ, no fear in his eyes.

“Applejack?” He asked.

Before she knows it, Silver manages to wrestle her down and holds her tight, not letting her go as she tries to squirm free.

“Let go of me Silver, or you will regret it!” She yelled.

He shook his head.

“Sorry cowgirl, but I can’t let you do anything stupid.” He said, holding her firmly as she continued to struggle.

“Stop it Applejack! This isn’t you! You are not a liar!” Twilight yelled.

She then approaches Applejack, as she continued to struggle, her horn glows as she closed her eyes and touches the mare’s head. Suddenly, memories of the past time with her friends show up in rapid succession. She tries to process all this, as the color in the farmer’s coat slowly reverts back to its normal color again.

Silver sees this and gently lets her go, as Applejack shakes her head, groaning.

“Wh-what happened?” She asked herself, as she blinks and sees Twilight and Silver.

“Twilight! Silver!” She exclaimed, and then sighing.

“I saw a vision of us feudin’ and fightin’. I couldn’t face the truth, so I started tellin’ lies. Can you ever forgive me?” She remorsefully asked, taking her hat off and hiding her face behind it, ashamed.

The two smiled.

“We already have.” Twilight said gently, as the three hug it out, AJ relieved.

They let go of the hug afterward.

“Come on, we have to help the others!” Twilight said, as the three ponies rush out.

They managed to get Fluttershy, Pinkie and Rarity with ease. Fluttershy thought everything was a bad dream, even though Applejack had to hogtie her since she was resisting, Rarity was not letting the group go near Tom, but Silver simply grabbed Rarity and held her up to Twilight as she used the spell. He then lets her down as she sees the group, and Tom, and remembers by tossing the boulder away. She walks out as her friends, smile at her, while Rarity asks to never speak of this again. Pinkie on the other hand, well she just took it. She just gets pulled by Applejack and the bubbly mare just laughs at her previous predicament.

With that, four of the five friends are restored and all that was left was Rainbow Dash. They went by her cloud home outside Ponyville, with Fluttershy peeking around the windows.

“Uh? She’s not here.” She said with a frown.

The group frowns, as Fluttershy comes back down and walks to them.

“Without Rainbow Dash, we can’t use the Elements.” Twilight explained.

“She could be anywhere by now! We’re never gonna find her.” Applejack said walking toward Twilight.

That is until Pinkie giggled.

“Yeah, we will, ‘cause she’s right there!” She points up to a small cloud that had a gray Rainbow Dash napping on it.

“Rainbow Dash!” Twilight yelled up.

She stirs and looks down, and grinned.

“Hey guys!” Rainbow replied with a wave.

“We’ve been looking everywhere for you!” Twilight replied.

Rainbow, however, just waves it off.

“That’s nice.”

“Discord’s still on the loose! We need you to help us defeat him with your element, Loyalty!” Twilight pressed.

Rainbow then scoffs.

“Pfft. Loyalty, schmoyalty! Have you guys seen Ponyville? It’s a disaster! I’m staying here in Cloudsdale where everything’s awesome.” Rainbow said, laying back down.

The group look at each other and up at Rainbow in disbelief.

“How in Equestria can she think that tiny patch of clouds is Cloudsdale?” Rarity asks.

Applejack then leans in and gives a smug grin.

“The same way he got you to think that cheap rock was a bonafide diamond.”

Rarity then meets Applejack’s grin with a glare.

“I thought we agreed never to speak of that again.” She said in a hush tone.

“Well, time for Plan B.” Twilight said.

After discussing the idea, which involved Fluttershy landing on Rainbow Dash to hold her down and having Applejack and Rarity lower Twilight down from above so she can touch the pegasus with her horn to perform the memory spell. Silver, however, intervened explaining while it would be a good idea, but with Fluttershy’s kind nature back, she likely wouldn’t be aggressive to just lay on her and would probably resort to asking Rainbow Dash if she would hold still, leaving the timid pegasus with a blush.

“We know Rainbow has a... rather inflated ego right? She thinks those little clouds are Cloudsdale... I saw we play her ego against her and let her come to us.” Silver explained.

“And how are you going to get her to come down, Silver?” Twilight asked with a raised brow.

He chuckles.

“Observe dear Bookie. When the time is right, Applejack and Pinkie Pie will flank her when she comes at me and hold her down. While she is down, you do the memory spell. Faster we get this done, faster we get to Discord and end this chaos.”

They all nod in understanding.

“Now watch.” Silver said as he moved toward Rainbow who was above.

Applejack and Pinkie got into position and waited.

“It’s such a shame. I mean sure Ponyville is in danger, but... It is hard to believe Cloudsdale was the first to go...” He said in a mock tone.

Rainbow’s ears twitched when she heard that.

“...What are you talking about Silver? Cloudsdale is just fine! See?” Rainbow said with her arms out, at the small clouds.

Silver shrugs.

“Oh yeah... I see it... Or rather what is left of it.” He replied calmly.

Rainbow’s expression was slowly going from annoyed to agitated.

“Cloudsdale isn’t gone! As long as I’m here, Discord won’t touch it!” She yelled.

He shakes his head.

“Tsk tsk tsk... It’s worse than I thought. Rainbow Dash, you are in denial. You tried hard to save Cloudsdale, you really did, but alas... You can’t accept the truth and try to hold on what is left of your former home...”

Now she was getting upset, and started to growl.

“Shut up Silver...” She warned him.

“It isn’t your fault Dash. You did your best... But you can’t admit that you just were’t quick enough...” He said with a solemn look.

“I said SHUT UP!” Rainbow got up, flaring her wings, glaring.

It was working. Applejack and Pinkie saw her and got ready.

“I am so sorry Rainbow... I really am, but... You have to let it go. You have to admit your mistakes and look at at the big picture...” He said as he breathed in deeply.

He then looks up, with a sad smile.

“...You were too slow...”

And with that, she was off, going at him like a missile with fury in her eyes.

“I’LL SHOW YOU WHO IS TOO SLOW!!!” She screamed.

Silver stood there.

“...NOW!” He yelled.

Pinkie and Applejack sprung up and manged to tackled Rainbow to the ground before her hoof even touch the edge of Silver’s muzzle.

“Keep her down you two. Twilight do it.” Silver said, still calm.

“You are a crazy stallion you know that?” Twilight said going past him.

“...Your welcome.” He grinned.

Rainbow was struggling to get the two ponies off, but the strength of two earth ponies she couldn’t budge.

“LET GO OF ME!!! I DON’T NEED ANYPONY!! JUST LET ME WRING THAT STALLION’S NECK!!!” Rainbow screamed.

Fluttershy hid behind Rarity, seeing her friend this angry.

“It is alright darling, she will be herself soon enough.” Rarity comforts Fluttershy, patting her head.

Twilight closes her eyes, horn glowing, as Rainbow breathed heavily and soon felt the magic of the horn touch her head. The memories flow back in her, slowly restoring her color to what it once was.

She then began to calm down and breath slowly, as Pinkie and Applejack get up and let Rainbow up. She shakes her head, confused.

“Wh-what happened?” Rainbow asked, before remembering.

“How is Ponyville? Where are the Elements?! Did we stop Discord?” She asked frantically.

The rest of the group just cheered and hugged it out, now all the friends were back to normal, Rainbow just looking confused. However, that soon stopped as they saw a couple pair of bison wearing tutus dancing on by.

“Maybe it’s a little early for a group hug.” Twilight said sheepishly.





Center of Ponyville





In the center of Ponyville, Discord sat upon his own throne watching the chaos unfold. He makes a glass cup appear and fills it with chocolate milk, all the while laughing wholeheartedly.

“Chaos is a wonderful, wonderful thing.” He said as he is about to slurp his drink down.

“Not as wonderful as friendship.” Twilight spoke out, making the being of chaos open one eye.

He sees the six ponies, restore and wearing their Elements. Silver was just to the side, now a bit more at ease as he gave a softer glare than before.

“Oh, this again?” Discord asked.

He then slurps the  glass  itself as if it was liquid, before tossing the chocolate milk itself to the side, causing it to explode, slowly making the place a bit darker. The group, however, stood unfazed.

“That’s right. You couldn’t break apart our friendship for long.” Applejack spoke up.

Discord smirked, as he uses his paw to lift Applejack up from the ground, tugging the Element of Honesty toward him.

“Oh, Applejack. Don’t lie to me. I’m the one who made you a liar. Will you ever learn?” He asked.

He then brought the other bearers, sans Twilight and Silver, around him.

The stallion, with his blade out, looks toward Twilight. She looks at him, as he nods.

She then looks up as she teleports up to the girls, causing Discord to gasp in surprise. She then creates a shield around herself and her friends, causing the spirit to look interested and amused by Twilight’s magic prowess. The group lands, as the spot they do land on, seems to revert to a patch of grass and flowers. The girls just grin confidently at Discord, who deep down feels he is grasping at straws.

He shrugs it off, however, still thinking they can’t stop him.

“I’ll tell you what we’ve learned, Discord: we’ve learned that friendship isn’t always easy, but there’s no doubt it’s worth fighting for!” Twilight declared.

He just leans up to them and gags.

“Ugh, gag. Fine, go ahead. Try and use your little Elements.” He said passively.

“Friend me. Just make it quick. I’m missing some excellent chaos here.” He said leaning back in his throne, waiting.

Twilight smirked as she looks to her friends.

“All right, ladies, let’s show him what friendship can do!”

“Wait-wait-wait!” Pinkie yelled.

This causes the group to stare at Pinkie as she slurps more chocolate milk rain, much to the the dismay of her friends.

“Pinkie, focus!” Silver yelled.

“Oh, right!” She grinned before jumping back with the girls, now growling.

The Elements begin to activate once more, as Discord watches yawning, unamused. Each of the girl’s Element fired off a beam toward Discord, causing him to dodge a few in surprise.

“What’s this?” Discord asked, now concerned.

The beams from the Elements all combine together as Discord watches in shock, realizing he now regrets this decision.

“No.... No...!” He yelled.

While this was going on, Silver was still on the ground, watching. However, he felt a tug on his hoof. He looks and sees his mother’s ring trying leave his hoof.

“W-what the...?” He asked himself.

He raised his hoof up a the ring left his hoof and floated high above him. The small ruby gemstone on the ring suddenly glinted to an emerald color and glowed.

“No way... Does this mean...?” Silver watched as a seventh beam, a green one, combines with the Element of Magic along the other six.

A large rainbow forms out of the cloud of light, with a large outline of his cutie mark, a green Delta, radiating behind it where the ring was floating. The rainbow then launches up as outlines of the Delta surround the rainbow and strike Discord.

“NO!!!” He screamed.

Soon he felt his body began to harden, crackling, back to stone as it reaches up to his head, where he leaves a face of shock frozen in place. The rainbow then creates a large dome that surrounds Ponyville, causing a bright light to flash to break out and restore Ponyville and everything around it back to normal. The girls land gently back to the ground, as Silver’s ring shoots back and manages to fit back on his hoof, returning the gem color back to red. Discord’s statue then tips over and crashes onto the ground. This time, it appeared that his arms and legs were shackled with stone chains and cuffs with two locks on them.

The group move toward it and just smiled brightly. They won.





Canterlot Palace





The doors open to the throne room, as the seven ponies walk in, seeing hundreds of ponies watching seeing their saviors walk down the aisle toward the Princess who smiled brightly at the group, a trumpet fanfare blaring out. Spike gave a sheepish wave, standing up near the throne, as Twilight giggled quietly. They all approached Princess Celestia, who looked proudly at Twilight knowing deep down she and her friends would succeed.

Celestia nods as she looks out to the crowd, her wings flair open.

“We are gathered here today to once again honor the heroism of these seven friends who stood up to the villain Discord and saved Equestria from eternal chaos.”

A curtain draws open, revealing a new stained glass, depicted the seven friends stopping Discord. Twilight and her friends depicted to have beams of light combine as it creates starburst effect around Discord. Silver is shown in the bottom center, raising his sword up, even though he really didn’t use it against him in the whole ordeal. Perhaps it was just so it would make him look a bit more valiant, considering he did punch Discord hard enough to send him flying when they were in the labyrinth. Despite this, he is shown to have a ray of light going alongside the girls.

The crowd then cheers for the friends who all look out and just stood proudly at the praise and admiration, confetti coming down and onto the crowd and heroes.

For now, peace across Equestria would go on for a bit more.
> Interlude - Forgotten History
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------





Canterlot Palace
Some time later...





"What is it that you wished to discuss with me?" Celestia asked.

After the celebration of stopping Discord and bringing peace and normalcy to Equestria again, Silver and Princess Celestia both stood in the throne room alone as the stallion wanted to speak to the princess privately. His friends would wait for him outside when he was done, but really wanted to discuss something important with her, and by extension Princess Luna.

"I know I should tell the girls this as well, but... I don't know how they would react to this, especially Twilight. For now, I just want to bring this to your attention, and relay it to Princess Luna when possible." Silver said.

The princess nods as she listens to her little pony's explanation.

"I know a lot has happened what with us beating Discord and sealing him in stone again, as well as bringing Luna back after returning as Nightmare Moon. However, there have been some... Strange events revolving around me personally... Something I can't really explain and just recently another occurrence happened." He started.

"And what has been going on that has been affecting you, dear Silver?" She asked.

"Well for starters, the day I came to Ponyville, and followed the girls to the Everfree Forest after Nightmare Moon. The moment I stepped into the forest... Something happened..."

He explained seeing visions of events he never seen before. Celestia's eyes widen as she held back a gasp when he mentioned seeing her, Luna, a being of black mass, a strange looking tree that looked to be made of crystal, and a figure that didn't appear to be of Equestria, garbed in red and wielding a sword that appeared to have the Elements and his cutie mark in the center. He realizes the figure in question is confirmed to be Crimson, as the being explained he was around during that time and met the princesses, however he left the name out.

The look in Celestia's eyes only show she knows what this little pony saw.

"I also... Heard a voice. I couldn't figure out who it was, but they sounded... Caring and gentle like you. It was a female, and it was the first time I heard of something known as the 'Mark of the Seventh.'" Silver explained.

Celestia just sat there, taking this in. The moment he said that phrase, she knew it was only a matter of time.

"...Silver, this voice. While I don't know who it might be, but the fact they are aware of who you are and was likely the one that gave you these visions means you were fated to return to Equestria and eventually reunite with Twilight and her friends, and bring them together, and be destined to be apart of this in some manner. There are some... Things that not many ponies know, in regards to the Elements of Harmony as they are mysterious in themselves, but I can tell you this: There was always six Elements, until a certain point thousand years ago."

Silver was going to ask, but she held her hoof up.

"And for as to why I never told this to Twilight, even after she and her friends became the new bearers of the Elements, I honestly didn't think this would crop up, but the fact that you know that phrase, yet are unaware of its meaning, means that you are as much as a special pony as Twilight is..." She explained.

"What does it mean...? It has plagued my mind for months now, even Crimson didn't really tell me--"

"Crimson...?" Celestia asked.

"Oh yeah, the weeks before the Gala, I was riding home on the train back to Ponyville,  after helping at my mother's jewelry shop, I had a dream. I was visited by that figure in red that I saw in the visions. He said his name was Crimson, and claimed to know you and Princess Luna centuries ago. He said he wants to help me reach my full potential, but I have to unlock the magic that is within me before he can do much." Silver explained.

"..." Celestia remained silent.

"...Princess? Is something wrong?" Silver asked.

"Has he... Taught you anything in your dreams?" She asked out of curiosity.

"...Well he had to teach me fast on the second dream I had, which was after the Gala, because Princess Luna arrived in my dream to discuss something she wanted to talk to me about that night and he arrived after and... Princess Luna kind of nearly had a freak-out, pointed at him stuttering and then Crimson looked at her with some remorse as he casts some sort of time spell on her, I think he called it 'Stop', and for what felt like half an hour, she was stuck in that pose." He explained.

Celestia knew right away Luna was telling the truth after she brought it up the following more after the Gala. He is still alive out there... And was not communicating to this pony through his dreams.

"...I see. And she wasn't harmed in anyway was she?" She frowned, mostly out of worry for her sister, even though she pretty much was told this by Luna.

"Oh, no. She just was frozen there and Crimson basically taught me a spell called 'Fire' and a healing spell called 'Cure'. He told me I was able to cast them rather easily in my dream but in real life, with little of my magic exposed, it could drain me, even if I was able to master using it and Cure." Silver replied.

"So you are able to cast these 'otherworldly' spells? Can you show me now?" Celestia leaned closer, as Silver backed his head away.

"U-uh, I guess I could. I just... He told me only to use them if I need to resort to them. But, since we beat Discord, I feel more lighter... As if my inner unicorn magic actually feels more open now. He thought it was because I was exposed to the Elements that it somehow affected me by trying to unlock my unicorn magic that I have been studying to use for years. Maybe..." Silver thought.

He stood back as he held his hoof out and closed his eyes. He focused the magic within him as he began to conjures up a small flame in his hoof. He didn't feel as much strain as he usually does, as it only took three seconds as oppose to seven seconds.

Celestia gasp, holding her hoof up to her mouth in shock and amazement.

"Oh my..." She muttered.

He opens his eyes as a perfect ember of flame appeared in his hoof.

"Huh... That didn't take as long as it usually does." He mumbled to himself.

"Incredible... It appears my dear sister was right." She thought.

He then waves it around before unleashing it into the air, where it erupts into nothing.

"Heh, what do you know, me being near the Elements seems to have unlocked my magic a bit more." Silver said chuckling.

"I am just... Amazed by this Silver. You, a young pony of Equestria, maybe the first Earth pony to have actually used actual magic... And not just magic known here, but 'otherworldly' magic. I understand that you are classified as a halfling, considering you possess the traits of unicorns but lack a horn and was born with higher traits of those of Earth ponies, but still even ancient arcane magic is something that even me and my sister don't use often because it requires more magic than the average pony, even for me and her." The princess praised.

"Uh, wow. That is actually pretty cool. I mean it was just a simple Fire spell though. From what Crimson said, it isn't that powerful, unless I learn to cast it in the next tier, which I am not ready to do yet. I still have to learn to cast the basics of ice and lightning magic in the form of... 'Blizzard' and 'Thunder', as well as a few other healing spells in the 'White' Magic category.

"Princess what can you tell me of Crimson? I mean he seems mysterious and all that, plus I feel his name maybe more or less... An alias. Maybe he doesn't want to reveal his identity to me now, but I figured if you would know a bit more about him. He says he knew you and Princess Luna from a long time ago." Silver asked.

She closed her eyes and thought about it.

"Well, I feel it isn't my place to talk about an 'old friend' unless he himself tells you. But what I can say is 'Crimson' can be trusted, he may have a stoic and somewhat cold exterior, but he is a kind and considerate individual. Gifted in his art in magic, as well as swordplay, I remember a time Luna wished to spar him since my little sister fancied the sword, while I preferred the halberd." She chuckles recounting the time.





Castle of the Pony Sisters
1000 Years Ago





It was afternoon in the brighter side of Equestria, as the regal castle of the two sisters of the sun and moon resided near the vast Everfree Forest. Celestia and Luna, who a couple months prior used the power of the Elements of Harmony to seal Discord into stone and restore harmony to the land, were enjoying a bit of downtime as court was not in session today.

Instead the two sisters, along with one unknown individual garbed in red and stood on two legs, was standing a ways from the young Princess of the Night, with the eldest simply watching from the sidelines from her throne.

The individual, Crimson, had a content look on his face, though it was hard to tell if he was smiling or not considering his face was partially covered by a face cover. His hand slowly rested on the grip of his sword that was sheathed, his calm brown eyes gazing over at the alicorn.

"...You sure you want to do this, Princess? I warn you: I won't go easy on you just because you are royalty." He said in a calm tone.

Luna just stood with strong confidence from across the individual. She was wearing her armor, obsidian black with a crescent moon etched on the center of her 'breastplate' and helmet that allowed her lustrous blue mane that sparkled like the night sky out. She was levitating her sword, a light blue blade with two dark blue wings and a crescent moon on the hilt, matching her coat color.

"We are certain, good Sage. Tis would be a squander if we did not test thou mettle with the blade, and see if thou has what it takes to last against thee." Luna replied.

Celestia, simply sipping tea on her throne, watching the two.

"Lulu, remember he is our guest. I am just as interested to see how he fares against an alicorn, and see if you..." Celestia stops as she tries to think of the word Crimson said he was when he arrived a several weeks prior.

"Human. I am a human, Princess." He said with a chuckle.

She smiled and nods.

"Thank you dear, to see what you humans are capable of, so try not to destroy the place, dear sister. I know how you get when it comes to sparring matches." She finished with a sip.

Luna rolls her eyes.

"Do not worry thyself, Tia. We won't hurt our guest too badly, although thou better not hold back against me." The lunar princess emphasized by pointing her blade at Crimson.

He closed his eyes, as he slowly draws out his blade form its scabbard. It was a beautifully made sword, golden all over from tip to hilt, having a rather ornate looking hand guard that made it resemble a rapier, a red grip and a red feather hooked around the pommel.

On top of that, the sisters could sense strong magic radiating from the sword. The type of enchantment on it was something they couldn't figure out, which only made Luna more anxious, and Celestia interested.

"This is just a sparring match, and not a battle to the death. Believe me, I rather not have the conscience of killing a princess of this land by accident looming over me. So, just to be safe on both parties..."

He pulls out one of his rods that were on his back, this one having being rather long, silver shaft, and having a large blue orb embedded at the top by what looked like a green 'hand' grasping it.

He walks over to Luna, who just eyes the rod he has as he raises it up into the air.

"Wall!" He yelled.

The rod's orb glowed brightly as the two opponents were surrounded by two different colored barriers, one blue and one green.

"What spells have thou cast on us?" Luna asked.

"A potent protection spell known as Wall. It brings up two barriers around the target that generates that gives Protect and Shell, which halves any damage taken from physical and magic attacks respectively. At least we won't be worse for wear if we do go all out, but even then it will hurt a bit." He explained.

Celestia listened, as she bring up a parchment and begun to write down some notes in regards to the protection spell Crimson cast on himself and Luna. She was curious to see if he would use anymore of his spells during this little match, smiling at the thought. She was also thankful that he was kind enough to give themselves a bit of extra protection from hits they are surely going to sustain.

"We thank thee for looking out for our well-being, good Sage. However, it does not change how this match shall end!" Luna declares proudly.

He just grinned under his face cover. He then breathes in deeply, bringing his sword, the Enhancer up to his face and closes his eyes, exhaling. He opens his eyes, before twirling the blade to his side as he got into his ready position.

"Shall we begin, Princess?" He asked.

"Have at thee!" Luna replied.

The two rush at each other, Crimson looking rather calm and collected as he brings his sword up. Luna does the same, focused on her opponent, as the two meet head on and blades clash, echoing through the room.





Canterlot Palace
Present Day





"The two appeared to have the time of their lives. Luna was always gifted in swordplay and not many ponies, aside from myself, could even match her in battle. 'Crimson' however, was just as elegant with a blade as he was with spellcasting, even being able to imbue his weapon with an elemental affinity just by waving his hand across the blade. It did add a bit of flair to the match. Considering the type of creature he was, he was more than able to keep up with Luna, and in the end managed to beat her." Celestia explained.

Silver listened. He was just amazed that Crimson was able to, how he usually puts it, 'do the tango' against Princess Luna and was able to beat her. He wondered how he would be able to match that, next time he would encounter the human as he is called.

"I can probably see why Princess Luna was taken a back when she saw him in my dream. Considering this is the only way we communicate, she will likely try to get every chance to just see if he shows up now she knows he sees me." He thought aloud.

Celestia just chuckles.

"My sister can be a bit... Anxious, especially when it comes to seeing an old rival of hers and friend she hasn't seen in over thousand years. I do hope he is doing well, and one day see him myself but unlike Luna I have no way of accessing the dreams of ponies."

"Well if you say I can trust him, then I'll learn everything I can from him." Silver said with a confident grin.

"And if possible, I would likely keep this between ourselves. I know if Twilight was to discover this, she would no doubt want you to teach her this type of magic. I am all for my student to better herself when the field of studying magic and becoming better, but I do feel this sort of magic would be too much for her. Even Luna and myself had a hard time trying to learn even the simplest spell from 'Crimson', his reasoning being he has studied this sort of magic almost his whole life and the world he hails from has magic that is different from the magic that flows through Equestria, thus being better attuned to it." The princess replied.

Silver nods.

"Well, is there anything else you wish to discuss? I am certain your friends are likely eager to return home to Ponyville with you and don't wish to keep you waiting." Celestia asked.

Silver thought for a moment.

"Actually just one last thing. It is in regards to when we sealed Discord back to stone..."

He explained how his mother's ring appeared to be affected by the Elements and managed to left his hoof to join the girls as the ring also appeared to fire a beam into the Element of Magic along the other Elements.

Celestia was surprised by this revelation.

"May I see your ring really quick?" She asked.

Silver holds his hoof up, allowing Celestia to inspect the ring a bit closer. She closed her eyes, as her horn goes, using a spell that allowed for her to detect enchantments and other sources of magic within objects.

"...Well? Do you detect anything Princess?" Silver asked, anxious.

"Hmm, this is strange... Whatever magic was in this ring is now dormant." Celestia concluded.

She let's him set his hoof down.

"Dormant? Meaning...?" Silver waved his hoof around wanting to know more.

"Whatever magic is within this ring only seems to be active when it needs to be. It is weak now, but there is definitely signs of magic that is on par with the Elements in it, mostly within the gemstone." She explained.

"Strange... It never did that when we were against Nightmare Moon, and mom never noticed anything abnormal with it when she wore it. To her, it was just a normal wedding band. What could this mean, Princess?" The stallion asked, looking at the ring.

"Could this mean I'm... A Bearer of the Elements as well?" He thought.

A gentle pat on the head by the princess snapped him out, as she smiled softly at the pony.

"It would be best to not dwell on it for now, dear. I am sure the answers will come to you at some point, should this voice or even Crimson, explain it too you in the future. For now, just enjoy life for what it is now and go with it."

She then gets up.

"Well, I think we can conclude business for today. You seven are likely eager to return to Ponyville with your friends and get some deserved rest from your ordeal against Discord." She said as she begins to walk Silver toward the doors.

Silver simply grinned.

"Maybe you are right... I am exhausted and just want to go home, sleep, pretend the whole thing never happened. Though, I should go visit mom before going home... Seeing as I'm here and having to save Equestria twice seems to warrant a needed visit to her. I'm sure the girls will understand. Thanks for taking time to talk to me about all this, Princess. It means a lot." He chuckled.

Celestia gives a soft chuckle.

"No problem at all my little pony. Should you learn anymore as the days go, you are more than welcome to send me a letter with details. I am just as interested about this as you are."

He gives a nod as the large doors open up with Celestia pulling them open. He waves to the solar princess and makes his way to the main lobby where Twilight and the others were waiting.

After he left, Celestia was about to go as well, before looking back at the stained glass window that was unveiled at the celebration earlier. She only smiled contently.

"...Farewell thee well for now, dear Bearer of Unity."
> Interlude 2 - Reformation of a Dark Heart
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Two months have passed since Discord was defeated, and Ponyville has since returned to everyday life. While regarded as the saviors of Equestria as a whole, the ponies of Ponyville continue to treat Twilight and her friends as any other pony would and not hold them on a pedestal, and still thought of them as friends and their neighbors.

Summer was already half way through as August moved it's way toward September, the lives of the Bearers of the Elements of Harmony continued their daily lives, their bonds only grew closer after resealing Discord into stone. Thinking back on what Celestia told him, Silver continued his training with Black and White Magic under Crimson's guidance within the dreamscape, and was quite pleased with the pony's performance as defeating Discord seemed to help awaken more of his dormant magic abilities and thus was able to move onto the some of the next tier of magic. As well, he decided to train Silver in his sword skills as well to help improve his self-taught experience, but despite the five years of training Silver was getting beat by Crimson, considering the human was more trained, experienced and had the advantage of using his hands, while Silver had to resort using his mouth or, an unorthodox method, using his tail after watching Applejack swing her lasso with it.

Crimson thinks that once the pony's magic can be opened the whole way, he would be able to levitate his blade and would be able to have better mobility and better control with his swings, but was still impressed by Silver's use with a blade, despite being an earth pony and lacking actual hands.

By the end of the week, Silver was capable of perfecting the use of 'Fire', 'Blizzard', and 'Thunder' at their base level and was already putting in work for 'Fira', 'Blizzara', and 'Thundara', as well as learning some status-inducing spells like 'Stun', which paralyzes a foe for a limited time, 'Sleep', which puts foes to sleep, and 'Slow', a spell that will slow time around the target. In White Magic, he was able to perfect 'Cure' and nearly has 'Cura' mastered, as well as getting in the protection spells 'Protect' and 'Shell', a status-healing spell like 'Esuna', which removed all negative status affects on someone like poison and confusion, and status-inducing spell like 'Silence', which prevents the use of magic being cast as it forces the target to remain silent, unable to cast the needed incantation.

Silver talked about what he told Celestia about the possibility of being a bearer of the Elements since his mother's ring reacted with the other Elements when they sealed Discord into stone, but Crimson simply remained quiet and said it was possible, however under the face cover the human was grinning. He also told her about his existence, confirming what Luna told her, and Crimson simply shrugs it off knowing Luna would go about telling Celestia about him regardless and was not to worried about it. When he was asked if he was out there somewhere, alive, and if he would ever reappear outside his dreams, Crimson simply said that maybe one day.

Silver often wonders how the girls will react when eventually comes a time he uses his newfound abilities before them and didn't say anything. While the girls would be amazed, Twilight would just be on his case for not telling her sooner and would likely do what Celestia predicted: learn more about Black and White Magic and the possibility of using it. He didn't want to keep secrets like this from his friends, but it was probably for the best considering what the princess said about how difficult Black and White Magic was, as it was otherworldly magic, and required a great deal of patience and mental prowess to even use, and considering it was magic that operated much differently compared to Equestrian magic and thus, Twilight, even though she embodied the Element of Magic itself, would have difficulty using it.

Plus, even though some of his inner unicorn magic was opened up more, he still needed to be wary of using the magic since it will still leave him drained, especially when it came to using the second tier spells like Fira. He would just need to continue to do this training in secret until the day comes when all can be revealed.

By then, October rolled around and the fall season was approaching. With the Running of the Leaves come and gone, this time without Applejack and Rainbow Dash competing like they did last year and simply having fun together as friends helping the other ponies out bringing down the leaves for fall, it was nearing the time of the one holiday everyone in Ponyville was excited for: Nightmare Night.

The holiday which ponies celebrate by dressing in costumes and hand out candy to all the fillies and colts who come by, as well as paying homage to Nightmare Moon whom the holiday was named after. It was one night to remember for everyone attending, as Princess Luna made her grand appearance since her return during the Summer Sun Celebration the previous year, and has changed since then in terms of her appearance as it seemed much of her magic has returned to her and now has a flowing mane and tail much like Celestia, only it is a deep blue that sparkles like the night sky.

After much trial and error, as well as witnessing Luna cancel Nightmare Night because of how the ponies treated her with much fear after trying to fit in, she soon becomes accepted by her subjects and adored by fillies and colts who enjoyed being scared on the night. Twilight even learned a new lesson in friendship, in that it is to give friendship to others and help them find it themselves, as well as even if someone is intimidating or scary, offering them your friendship will help you discover a whole new individual underneath.






Royal Palace - Canterlot






It was a long night of fun and excitement for the blue alicorn as she returns home to Canterlot after the festivities have concluded. She was certain to remember this evening as a memorable one. The Royal Guard all salute Luna as she nods to them.

The festivities in Ponyville went on until after midnight. Many residents were showing weariness and most of the fillies and colts often were asleep while still clutching their bags of candy. It was to be another new day for Ponyville in the morning, despite the amount of fun that was had this evening.

She enters the throne room, seeing her older sister taking over her place for the first half of the night court. She was happy to see Luna back, and can tell it was successful evening.

As much as Celestia wanted to hear about her night, the solar monarch was already exhausted and Luna promised to tell her everything the following day and relieved her of her duties for the night. Celestia, giving a small nuzzle to her little sister, as she walks by and for a nice rest.

Considering that the night court ended a bit after midnight, Luna decided to head to her bedchambers for the evening. She had at least five hours before the moon needed to be lowered for the dawn, so she decided to spend most of the that time to enter the Dreamscape and look into the dreams of sleeping ponies.

However, the moment she entered the realm of dreams, she noticed something off. She felt a presence here, which was impossible as she was the only one that can enter the realm of dreams.






Dreamscape






"Whoever is there, I know you are near... Show yourself!" Luna demanded.

It was then a voice replied. One that made Luna suddenly shiver, upon hearing it.

"Of course... Luna."

Suddenly the place became dark as a small, familiar blue cloud of mist appeared. It then began to slowly expand into the shape of a pony slightly taller than Luna. The princess's eyes widen as she steps back.

"...It can't be... H-how are you still here?!" Luna yelled.

The figure chuckles, weakly, as it finishes its transformation. Standing before her, was none other than Nightmare Moon.

"Miss me, Lulu?" Nightmare asked.

Luna's horn started to flare up, as she glared at the dark entity.

"Answer me! The Elements of Harmony should've purged you from me!"

Nightmare Moon just looks away, frowning.

"...As did I. However, we've been together for how long now, Luna? I am the darkness that resides in your heart, the manifestation of jealousy and anguish that you had all those years ago... I have since become a part of your very being. The Elements did rid my influence over you... yes, however they only weakened me to what I am now..." Nightmare explained.

Luna's horn began to dim a bit as she just looked at her in confusion.

"You have become what you once were before I took over, and as it stands I likely have no chance to take a hold over you... which is fine. I deserved what happened to me." Nightmare said with what sounded like... remorse.

"..." Luna just stood there.

"Even though I haven't been able to take a hold of you, because of the Elements, I have been aware of what has happened since that day. Even witnessing the events of this evening..."

She just gave a smirk.

"Never thought we would have a holiday dedicated to us... Even if half the things that were said were exaggerated... I mean, come now. I may have been terrifying, but eating little foals if they did not make an offering of sweets to us? I have standards..." She chuckled.

"...Is there something more you wish to tell me, Nightmare? As to what do you want?" Luna asked, impatiently.

"...The Elements of Harmony have made me see the wrong I have caused thousand years ago. Had they wanted me gone, we wouldn't be having this conversation now. I believe the Elements are giving me a second chance." Nightmare replied.

"...Pardon?" Luna asked, deadpanned.

"Think about it dear Luna... The effects of the Elements were never meant to be temporary and non-lethal. Had when Celestia used the Elements on us, they would have destroyed me... or rather both of us. Instead we were banished away on the very celestial body we raise and lowered for years on end..." Nightmare explained.

"Had when those six ponies used it on us again when we returned from our banishment, it could've destroyed us or send us back... but instead it just removed my influence over you and severely weaken me, and restoring your to yourself. If friendship is really that powerful of a force to stop me, and even return Discord to stone once more... then I don't see a reason to risk possibly losing my very being should the Elements affect me a third time... and for that, I wish be whole with you again... as a means to be able to learn more about this concept that eluded us for centuries." She finished.

"...How will I know this is not just a trick as a means to take me over again and enact revenge on Twilight Sparkle and her friends later?" Luna asked, still unsure about the whole thing.

"Because the Elements have not just affected me, they have affected you as well. You appear to be immune from further corruption by my magic, and the only way I could even take over is if you allow me to by your own will... Luna, I thought hard about this, and I only want to make amends for my actions. As I said, we are one in the same, as I am the darkness that resides within your heart. Light and darkness are on the same bit... you can't have one without the other. Just allow me this chance the Elements have given me..." Nightmare pleaded.

Luna didn't know what to think. The fact Nightmare Moon was still lingering within her made her uneasy, but she made a point that the Elements couldn't fully purge her from her mind. She was just as much part of Nightmare Moon as vice versa. And if the Elements were giving her a second chance to be a better pony...

"...I will think about it Nightmare Moon. I will take this into consideration, as this is something I wish to dwell on for a bit..." Luna responded.

Nightmare Moon simply nods.

"It is all I ask for Luna. I swear to you I will try to be a better pony, and hopefully make amends with our sister if the time comes..."
> Chapter 11 - A Canterlot Wedding, Part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Months have passed as another year rolled around. During that time, since Discord being sealed once again by the efforts of the Bearers of the Elements of Harmony, a lot has happened for the star group of friends in Ponyville as many lessons in friendship were learned by Twilight and her friends, who each wrote to Princess Celestia on what sort of lesson they learned after the whole mishap with Twilight’s ‘Want It Need It’ Spell fiasco. And not just the seven friends, but other ponies also learned a lesson in friendship.

Rarity and her little sister, Sweetie Belle, having to deal with their own relationship as siblings before eventually settling their differences after the Sisterhooves Social, as told in a letter to Celestia by both Rarity and Sweetie about the hardships of being sisters, but knowing that it can be overcome with a bit of teamwork, accepting each other’s differences and having fun together.

Apple Bloom’s impatience in trying to get her cutie mark quickly comes back and bites her in the flank when she had to go through having the Cutie Pox, a rare, but harmless, disease that caused her to have an outbreak of different cutie marks and causing her to do too many talents at the same time, stemming from a potion she created when visiting Zecora while the zebra was out. She learned that waiting for what one’s heart desires can be hard, and taking a shortcut would only lead to dishonesty and not working as one never earned it. It is about being honest with oneself and others as that is what every heart desires.

Rainbow Dash, after learning she and Silver were without a pet, though the latter declined in having one due to him likely not being able to take care of one considering how he is always out and about, decides to hold a competition to find the best pet for herself. When all the other animals that were potential candidates failed to come to her aid after large boulder landed on her wing in Ghastly Gorge aside from a tortoise who did, she learned that the most important quality in a pet, or in any friend is not how cool they are or how much they can do, but is a kind of spirit that will stand by her.

This was because despite seeing the falcon having all the qualities she wanted, she desired to be able to finish the race alongside her pet, which she was able to do with the tortoise. After that, she decided to name him Tank, for the fact you couldn’t stop him no matter the cost.

From learning about humility and grace during the whole ordeal with the Mare Do Well, to the Cutie Mark Crusaders learning their mistakes when it came to their gossip column as Gabby Gums, it goes to show how far friendship is special to anyone, and that it is precious to not shattered. However, it is around this time that ideal would be put to the test... And it all began with a letter and an invitation.





Ponyville Park
Noon





Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie and Rainbow Dash were enjoying a nice little picnic in the park. The girls were all talking amongst themselves about their day, but were interrupted when Spike came running as quickly as he could to the group, panting heavily.

“Twi... Light...” Spike said, catching his breath.

The girls all look at the baby dragon with concern.

“I... Have... Lemme just...” He added.

He then gave a deep breath before belching out a green flame, with a letter. Twilight takes it, recognizing it as a letter from the Princess. She then opens the letter and begans reading it aloud.




”Dear Twilight, I am sure you are as excited as I am about the upcoming wedding in Canterlot.”




“Wedding?” Twilight asked, looking at the girls with a confused look.

She then continues reading.





”I will be presiding over the ceremony, but would very much like you and your friends to help with the preparations for this wonderful occasion. Fluttershy, I would like you and your songbird choir to provide the music.”





Fluttershy simply gasped in delight.

“Oh my goodness! What an honor!” She said excitedly.





Pinkie Pie, I can think of no one more qualified than you to host the reception.





With that, Pinkie just cartwheels as confetti falls down from nowhere.

“Hip, hip, hooray!” She yelled.





”Applejack, you will be in charge of the catering for the reception.”





Applejack just takes her hat off, rubbing her brow.

“Well, color me pleased as punch!” She exclaimed.





”Rainbow Dash--”





The namesake pony simply yawned.





”...I would very much appreciate it if you could perform a sonic rainboom as the bride and groom complete their “I do’s.”





With that news, Rainbow suddenly shot in the air doing a somersault, pumping her hoof.

“Yes!” Exclaimed the now pumped Dash.





”Rarity, you will be responsible for designing the dresses for the bride and her bridesmaids.”





Rarity’s eyes bug out and her jaw drops.

“Princess... Celestia wants me to... To... Wedding dress? For a Canterlot wedding...” The shocked Rarity said, before fainting on the spot.





“As for you, Twilight, you will be playing the most important role of all: Making sure that everything goes as planned. And as for Silver, he will be sent a separate letter with his task for the wedding, as I am aware that he is here in Canterlot currently. I hope to see you all soon. Yours, Princess Celestia.”





Twilight finished as she frowns, looking at the back of the letter confused.

“But... I don’t understand. Who’s getting married?” She asked.

Spike then remembers as he nervously pulled out another letter, this being an invitation.

“Oh wait... I suppose I should’ve given you this first. Heh heh...” Spike chuckled.

Twilight rolls her eyes as she read off the invitation, the girls all pop their heads behind her to listen.

“Princess Celestia cordially invites you to the wedding of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and...”

She then gasped in complete shock.

“...My brother?!”

The girls just look at Twilight, with just as much surprise in their faces. Applejack then approaches her.

“Your brother is getting married?” Congratulations Twilight! That’s great news!” Applejack said patting her friend.

However, Twilight just gave a dejected look as she walks away from Applejack.

“Yeah, great news.” Twilight said in an agitated tone, looking up at Canterlot, seeing a round, pink sphere surrounding it, but not focused on that.

“That I just got from a wedding invitation! Not from my brother, but from a piece of paper! Thanks a lot, Shining Armor. I mean, really, he couldn’t tell me personally?”

She then picks up her sandwich, as she tries to mimic his voice.

“Hey, Twilight, just thought you should know I’m making a really big decision that changes everything. Oh, never mind, you’ll hear about it when you get the invitation.” She then puts it down and walks back.

“Princess Mi Amore Candenza? Who the hay is that?!” Twilight bellowed, as she breathed heavily through her nostrils.

Fluttershy approaches her, with a look a concern.

“Twilight? Are you okay?” She asked, timidly.

Twilight then calms down and sighs.

“Sorry, it’s just that Shining Armor and I have always been so close. He’s my B.B.B.F.F!” She said, swinging her hoof toward them.

There is a brief pause as the girls just look at each other. Twilight rolls her eyes, realizing they didn’t know what she meant.

“Big Brother Best Friend Forever?”

“Oooh!” The girls said collectively.

Twilight then goes and looks up at the sky walking away from the group a bit.

“Before I came here and learned the importance of friendship, Shining Armor was the only pony I ever really accepted as a friend. Well, there was Silver too... But this is different.” She said, as a small red bird lands on her hoof.

She gives it a small nuzzle before letting it fly away. Slowly memories of her early childhood as a small filly in Canterlot came flooding back, where she just walked down the street, her face deep in a book.



When I was just a filly, I found it rather silly
To see how many other ponies I could meet
I had my books to read, didn’t know that I would ever need
Other ponies to make my life complete

But there was one colt that I cared for
I knew he would be there for me



The small filly Twilight then bumps into something as she looks up from her book, before look up at a tall, white unicorn stallion with a light gray coat, a long moderate sapphire blue mane with moderate cerulean and dark phthalo blue streaks, moderate cerulean eyes and moderate sapphire blue hooves. His cutie mark bore the symbol of a blue shield with a six-pointed star in the center and three smaller five-pointed stars on the top.

The tall colt gave a bright grin as the filly immediately smiled brightly, dropping her book and hopping around her older brother happily, while Shining reared and flailed his forhooves playfully, before grabbing Twilight, giving her a playful noogie on the head and snuggling her closely.



My big brother, best friend forever!
Like two peas in a pod, we did everything together

He taught me how to fly a kite (Best friend forever!)
We never had a single fight (We did everything together!)
We shared our hopes, we shared our dreams



More scenes of her time with Shining pass by, like learning how to fly a kite, Shining taking an apple and using his magic to split it in half for him and Twilight to share, Shining watching Twilight levitate a book and looking proud of her when she does it, and then the two standing near a balcony of Royal Guard saluting to the Princess, with Shining doing the same with a bright grin, with Twilight giggling as she watches him.

Soon it shows Shining waving good-bye to Twilight and Spike as they head off to Ponyville for the first time.



I miss him more than I realized
It seems...



Soon her friends all join in, with content smiles on their faces as they look at Twilight, whom look saddened.



Your big brother, best friend forever
Like two peas in a pod, you did everything together



Looking up, she sees the clouds in the form of her and Shining tossing a ball back and forth, before Shining begins to wander off.



And though he’s, oh, so far away
I hoped that he would stay



Twilight’s eyes begin to tear up, as an imaginary image of Shining, now a stallion, stands beside Twilight, smiling softly at her.



My big brother best friend
Forever...
Forever...



The image of Shining disappears, as Twilight wipes the tears from her eyes. Her friends all look at each other, with a look of worry as Applejack walks over to her.

“As one of your P.F.F.’s...”

The group, including Twilight, just look at her confused.

“Pony Friends Forever...” Applejack added.

“Ohhh!” The group said collectively.

“...I wanna tell you that I think your brother sounds like a real good guy.” The mare added.

Twilight sighs as she heads back over to the group and sits down with Rainbow and Fluttershy.

“He is pretty special. I mean, they don’t let just anypony be captain of the Royal Guard.”

Rarity suddenly screeches, causing the girls to look at her, wide eyed.

“So let me get this straight. We’re helping out with the wedding of not only a princess, but a captain of the Royal Guard?” Rarity asked.

Twilight just rolled her eyes and waves it of dismissively.

“I guess we are.” She said plainly.

This only caused Rarity to faint again, only Twilight, without looking, pulls a pillow that manages to catch Rarity’s head. While she looks disappointed still, the rest of the group just chatter excitedly about the wedding.

Twilight looks back over at Canterlot and wonders.

”I wonder how Silver took the news...”





Canterlot





The moment Silver received the letter and invitation from Celestia, it blew the stallions mind when he saw who was getting married. However, unlike Twilight, he was aware of who Princess Mi Amore Cadenza was and more of a reason why it was mind blowing to him. He knew Shining Armor when he was a young colt, having met him a few times whenever he and Twilight played together and Shining happened to be with her at the time.

At first, he was sort of intimidated by him consider how tall he was for a colt but began to warm up to Shining, and thought he was a pretty cool pony to be around after getting to know him a bit more. Learning he wanted to be part of the Royal Guard sort of gave Silver a bit of an idol, as he hoped he aspired to be someone who wanted to protect others from danger. It may have also stemmed from the fact Silver didn’t have any siblings of his own, being an only colt, so he sort of looked up to Shining as a big brother figure and wanted to learn more from him.

However, by the time Golden passed away, Shining was already enrolled in the Royal Guard for training and hasn’t seen him since. Even during Silver’s frequent stops in Canterlot, he hasn’t been able to see Shining Armor considering how busy he likely was with being the captain of the Royal Guard, and after reading the letter Celestia sent him on what his role would be for the wedding, would mark the first time in years he gets to see Shining again.

Back on the topic of the wedding, Celestia’s task for Silver to be involved in the wedding was a rather interesting one. He did read on the roles Twilight and the girls would be doing, but received a separate letter for his task alone.




“Silver, considering your skill in combat, as well as your skills taught you by our ‘mutual friend’, you may have heard the growing rumors of the possibility of a threat being made to Canterlot by an unknown group. Because of this, security has been increased, as well as a barrier surrounding the entirety of Canterlot to prevent this threat from intruding in the city.

While it may just be paranoia in account of the wedding, there maybe a slight chance that one from this group may possibly be in the city as we speak. So far, the guard have reported no suspicious activity, but your survival skills gained from isolation in the Badlands could prove useful in keeping an extra eye behind the scenes while preparations for the wedding continue.

I know this is a task more than capable of the Royal Guard, and I trust them with all my heart, but you are a special pony. If anypony is capable of rooting out a threat that could be lurking in the shadows, it is you.

You are still able to attend the wedding on the day it is set, but until then the Royal Guard will be aware of your involvement with security and will assist you should you require it. Again, ensure that you keep a subtle profile as not to create panic for the citizens, as well as for Twilight and your friends as they help with preparations.

Should you find anything amiss, I want you to bring this attention to me or Princess Luna immediately. While I am busy with presidation over the wedding, the safety for our subjects is still a priority and I don’t wish for anypony to be hurt. Refrain from engaging in combat unless your personal life or the life of another is at risk.

Aside from this, try to enjoy yourself with your friends when they arrive to Canterlot. I hope to see you soon. Yours, Princess Celestia.”




Silver placed the letter down on his desk, taking a moment to think it over. It is true that since he came back home the previous week, word from the grapevine has been floating around that some mysterious group is threaten to come to Canterlot in an attempt to invade, but it has just be speculation so far and no actual evidence has been found to confirm this rumor yet.

”...Seems a bit too convenient though. A royal wedding is coming up, and rumors of an invasion on Canterlot surfaced and yet no confirmation has been made to prove it. Would make sense if it does occur though, and seeing as it is possible that who or whatever is from this group could already be in Canterlot as we speak... Waiting and lurking for the right moment...” Silver thought.

“Well, if the princess is confident in my ability to solve this behind the scenes, who am I to question it. Guess I’ll just have to be extra cautious then... And yet play it all naturally. Can’t really let the girls know, don’t want them to worry and for them to just focus on the preparations...” He said to himself aloud.

“...But for how long can I continue to keep these secrets from them? I know sooner or later they will know what sort of training I been doing these past few months... And if this threat does make itself known, I may have to resort to using it. Hopefully, that won’t be the case.”

He then looks over by his bed, eyeing his Mythril Sword in its scabbard resting against the wall by the bed. And next to it, what looks like a normal wooden oak staff.

It was strange, one morning before heading to the Golden Emerald to help Diamond Dust out, Silver received a package without a return address or the sender’s name on it. Inside the box, contained the staff and a small note simply saying ‘Use it well.’

He wanted to believe it may’ve been Crimson that sent him the staff, but found that to be impossible as he only had conversations with the human in his dreams, and yet part of him thinks it could be possible that Crimson may actually be somewhere in Equestria, if not the world. Aside from Celestia and Luna, nobody else knew about Silver training to use Black and White Magic and from what Celestia told him, Crimson wielded weapons that had magic to them, but to replicate them was difficult to do because of the fact it came from out of this world.

The staff itself didn’t look at all special, it was simply an old, wooden staff made of oak. Yet, when he tried using it with some of his magic, he found that it seemed to give him better control in spellcasting a Fire spell, not feeling as drained as he would be if he tried to conjure up the spell without the staff. He found that it made training a bit easier, if not for the fact he has been at this for months and since been able to do most of the first and second tier spells without little difficulty, but the stronger spells that were above those were still hard for him to master, leaving him drained of mana and exhausted. He hoped that when he got more time, to try out the higher tier spells and see if using the staff would make much of a difference.

Looking at the clock, he saw it was nearly past two in the afternoon. He knew that the others would be arriving later to Canterlot, and from he learned, Twilight was still feeling a bit dejected about the news not being passed on to her by her brother directly. He felt bad for Twilight, but knew deep down she couldn’t stay mad at Shining, considering how tense everything was getting as the wedding was approaching.

Grabbing his cloak and sword, opting to leave his Oak Staff behind, he leaves his residence and makes his way to the train station to wait for the others to show up. He saw how many guards were around while the citizens were out and about their day as usual, all chattering excitedly about the wedding.

He reached the platform and stood there and waited, not before nodding to some of the guards. As he stood there, he couldn’t help but hear some chattering down the street from three mares. He takes a glance, noticing three mares walking toward the palace, one unicorn and two pegasi and each sporting a long ponytail.

The unicorn had a lilac coat, a mane that was half deep reddish brown and half reddish brown, moderate malachite green eyes, and a cutie mark of the Zodiac symbol of Capricorn.

The second pony had a grayish purple coat, a dark gray mane with light gray streaks, medium malachite eyes, and a cutie mark of the Zodiac symbol for Aquarius.

The third pony, whom Silver was mostly focused on, was one with a light brilliant violet coat, very dark gray mane, vivid sap green eyes, and a cutie mark with the Zodiac symbol of Pisces. She also wore what looked like a gold ring with a bright pink gemstone embedded in the center, on her right hoof.

Silver just couldn’t help but stare at the three mares, namely the violet one. Something about them felt... Different. Soon, the violet pony happened to looked toward the train station at a small glance, noticing Silver staring at her. She arched her brow, as she tilts her head, which caused the stallion to quickly turn back around and look the other way.

”Oh geez, she saw me staring at her... Just relax, maybe she won’t question it...” He thought, sweating slightly.

However, as if a strange force heard his thoughts, she heard one of the other ponies call toward her.

“Hey, Aquamarine! You coming?”

The violet pony, known as Aquamarine, looked toward her friends who stared at them.

“Hmm? What?” She asked.

The other two mares looked at each other.

“Uh, you okay? I asked if you were coming.” The grayish purple mare replied.

“O-oh! Right, sorry I was just... Thinking.” Aquamarine sheepishly replied.

Her friends look at each other and shrug it off.

“Well okay then. Come on, we’re gonna be late.” The blue violet on said.

“Yeah, sure.” Aquamarine said as they began walking again.

Not before she took a quick glance back at Silver, who was now focused back on waiting for the train.





Friendship Express
Around 2:15 PM





The train was already reaching toward the town limits of Ponyville, as Rainbow Dash and Applejack watched the town slowly shrink as they rode away.

“A sonic rainboom? At a wedding?!” Rainbow asked aloud.

Applejack looks at her grinning, as the cyan mare looked at her.

“Can you say ’best wedding ever?!’” She exclaimed.

That wasn’t until Pinkie peeked her head out of the window to respond.

“BEST WEDDING EVER!!” She yelled.

Spike, Rarity and Fluttershy also had their heads out of the car windows as the train began to make its approach toward the tunnel.

“So you all get to help with the big fancy wedding, but I’m the one who gets to host the bachelor party! I have just one question.” Spike said, as the two look at him.

“What’s a bachelor party?” Spike asked.

The girls simply all laugh at the question as the train enters through the tunnel. Soon it came out of the otherside, bringing back light in the car. While this goes on, Applejack notices Twilight sitting away from them, by herself, still looking down. She walks over to her while her friends continued to chatter away.

“Why the long face, sugarcube?” She asked with a concerned tone.

Twilight didn’t look at her, simply staring out the window toward Canterlot as it slowly drew closer.

“I’m just thinking about Shining Armor. Ever since I moved to Ponyville, we’ve been seeing each other less and less. And now that he’s starting a new family with this “Princess Mi Amore Ca-whatshername”, we’ll probably never see each other.” Twilight responded glumly.

Applejack tries to reassure her.

“Come on, now. You’re his sister. He’ll always make time for you.”

To which, Twilight simply looks back toward her, mood still not soften.

“Couldn’t seem to make time to tell me he was getting married.” She mumbled.

Eventually the train makes its journey up the mountain side as they make their approach to Canterlot. Greeted by two guardsponies that let the train pass, it passes through the pink, magical barrier as everyone in the train feels it pass by them, including Twilight who wasn’t really paying attention up until they made it through. The train slows down as makes it to its destination.

Outside, Silver watches the door open and sees the girls slowly peek their heads out, noticing how many guards were around on the platform alone, all monitoring them.

“We’re here! We’re here!” Pinkie squealed in delight.

Rainbow looks around, seeing the amount of guards.

“Whoa, what’s with all the guards?” She asked.

“I’m sure they’re just taking the necessary precautions. Royal weddings do bring out the strangest ponies.” Rarity replied as she follows the two out.

Fluttershy and Pinkie follow out, but not before Pinkie starts showing signs of sneezing.

“Aaaaaaaaa–!”

She then sneezed out a punch of confetti.

“Well, it is nice to see you girls here.” Silver said, catching their attention.

“Silver!” Pinkie yelled as she runs over and hugs him.

He chuckles and gives her a pat on the head as the others came over to greet their friend. While that happens, Applejack and Twilight exit out of the train car, with former looking toward Twilight.

“Well, let’s get going! We have a lot of work to do!” Pinkie yelled as they all began to move onward to the palace, the girls nodding in agreement.

“And you’ve got a big brother to go congratulate.” Applejack added.

Twilight sighed, before giving furrowing her brows.

“Yeah. Congratulate. And then give him a piece of my mind.” Twilight responded as she trots away from Applejack and passed the group.

Silver watches her go and gives a confused look.

“What’s eating her?” He asked.

“She’s a bit upset that she found out about the wedding from an invitation and not from her brother’s own mouth. She’s been like this since she found out about the announcement.” Applejack replied.

The stallion frowned.

“Oh boy... I better go talk to her before she does something crazy. You girls just head on to the palace and we can catch up later.” Silver responded, as he begins to trot after Twilight.

Twilight just made toward the inner courtyard, trotting angrily past the guards. Silver nods to a few of them as she catches up.

“Twilight, hold up a moment! You just get off the train and not even say hi? That is pretty unlike you.” Silver joked, hoping to lighten her mood.

“Sorry Silver, but as if you can’t tell, I am not in a cheery mood at the moment...” She spat back.

“Right, right. Because of learning about your brother’s wedding without the big bro telling you about it himself. It is no reason to hold a small grudge over his head about it. I’m sure he has a reasonable explanation for it all.” Silver reasoned.

She rolled her eyes, not before spotting up in the balcony several guards, and a familiar blue maned unicorn directing a couple pegasi guards away.

“Yeah... We’ll see about that...” She mumbled.

She then approached the center of the courtyard, looking up to where Shining and the guards were all at.

“I’ve got something to say to you, mister.” She called up.

This causes several of the guards to immediately point their spears out toward Twilight, as Shining walks over and looks down, and then smiles brightly. The guards then went at ease when their captain recognized who it was.

“Twily!” Shining greeted, taking his helmet off before rushing down the stairs.

“Ah, I’ve missed, you, kid. How was the train ride? I–” Shining reached his hoof out toward Twilight, but she stepped back not wanting to be touched.

“How dare you not tell me in person that you were getting married! I’m your sister, for pony’s sake!” Twilight spat out.

Shining then puts his hoof down, before giving a guilty look.

“It’s not my fault! Princess Celestia has requested a major increase in security. Didn’t you see all the guards at the train station?” He asked.

Twilight nods, as Silver finally arrived, stopping short behind the two.

“Yeah, there’s a big wedding coming up. Maybe you heard about it?” Twilight replied sarcastically.

“Oh come on, Twilight. Give the guy a break. Least hear the big guy out.” Silver reasoned.

Shining then looked at Silver, taking a moment to remember him before blinking.

“Wait... Silver? Silver Guardian?” Shining asked.

Silver smirked.

“In the flesh. It’s been awhile, Shining Armor.”

The other stallion grinned before giving the younger stallion a hoof bump.

“Wow, you really grew since the last time I seen you. I just remembered you being a tiny.” Shining replied.

He rolled his eyes.

“Or maybe it was because you were tall. I mean, even now, I still sort of dwarf compared to you.” Silver chuckled.

The two just started chatting it up, before Twilight clears her throat.

“Boys, I know it has been a long time since you two seen each other, but... I’m still right here waiting for an explanation!” She yelled.

This causes the two stallions to flinch back a bit.

“Oh... Yeah right. Sorry Twily.” Shining rubbed the back of his head before he continued where he left off.

“Let’s see... Oh right. The amount of guards at the train station has nothing to do with the wedding. I’m sure you probably don’t know this yet, but a threat has been made to Canterlot.” Shining explained.

He looks up toward the sky.

“We still don’t know who is responsible, but Princess Celestia asked that I help provide additional protection.”

“So no clues have been found since the rumors started cropping up?” Silver asked.

Shining shook his head, before he looks down at Twilight, lifting her head up to meet him eye level.

“You two should see this...”

The two ponies looked at each other as the follow Shining up to the higher part of the castle overlooking the courtyard and surround parts of the outer palace. The three stopped on the bridge that lead to inside the palace, as Shining closed his eyes.

His horn begins emitting a light rose aura. It starts becoming brighter as he unleashes a spell, with an audible ‘pop’, that seems to reinforce the large barrier that surrounds Canterlot. Twilight looks at the barrier, baffled, while Shining shakes his head as he gives a rather tired look.

“Wow, and this looks like it is slowly taking a toll on you, Shining. I been here for almost a week and you had this whole thing up since then. I just hope you don’t pass out next time you do it again.” Silver said, giving the taller unicorn a concerned look.

“Thanks Silver. It hasn’t been easy on me, but the burden of keeping Canterlot safe and secure rests squarely on my shoulders. Staying focused on the task at hand has been my top priority.” Shining replied.

Twilight, hearing this, began to soften up upon hearing understanding the situation.

“Okay, okay, I get it. You’ve got a really important job protecting all of Canterlot with a force field only you can conjure up.” Twilight responded, not looking as angry as she did before.

Still, she did look hurt.

“But still... How could you not tell me about something as big as your wedding? Am I not that important to you any more?” She asked, sadly.

Both Shining and Silver gave her a sad look. The elder brother placed a gentle hoof on her shoulder.

“Hey. You’re my little sister. Of course you’re important to me.” Shining assured her, before giving a sly, playful grin.

“But I’d understand if you didn’t want to be my best mare now.” He said, looking down at her with grin.

Twilight’s eyes widen, her mouth agape.

“You want me to be your best mare?” Twilight asked in shock.

Shining just laughs a little.

“Well...yeah.”

Twilight almost squeals in excitement before she goes and hugs him tightly.

“I’d be honored...!”

Silver just chuckles.

“Well congrats Twilight. See, this all worked out in the end.” Silver responded.

But then, remembering who he was supposed to marry, Twilight stepped back, before giving an annoyed look at Shining.

“But I’m still pretty ticked you’re marrying somepony I don’t even know! When did you even meet this “Princess Mi Amore Cadenza”?” She asked.

Shining and Silver just look at each other, as Shining grinned.

“Wow, you really don’t know Twilight? I mean, think about it. It’s in the name plain as day.” Silver smirked.

“Twily, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza is Cadence, your old foalsitter.” Shining answered.

This causes Twilight to gasp.

“Cadence? As in the Cadence? As in the greatest foalsitter in all the history of foalsitters?!” She asked excitedly.

“Well you tell me. She was your foalsitter.” Shining replied chuckling.

“Here it comes...” Silver said quietly, holding back a laugh.

“Ohmygoshohmygosh! Cadence is only the most amazing pony ever! She’s beautiful, she’s caring, she’s kind...”

She then has a flashback when she was just a filly, in her room as she looked through a toy chest. Upon seeing a young, pink alicorn with a moderate violet mane and moderate rose and pale gold streaks, tied into a short ponytail, light purple eyes, and a cutie mark of a heart made of crystal with two small gold reeds underneath the little unicorn jumped for joy and hugs the alicorn tightly, while the other returns it tenderly.

The one thing she remembers more fondly is the special chant the two made up together.

”Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!~” Both the young Twilight and Cadence chanted together before falling on their backs laughing.

She then remembers when the two were walking along the street, and noticed two couples in front of a café arguing. Twilight was just amazed that Cadence was able to get the two to stop arguing and just give lovey-dovey eyes at each other all through her own magic.

”She is a pretty awesome pony. I remember the first time I met her...” Silver thought.





It was seven years ago, and a young Silver and his mother were just walking down the street toward their residence. Silver, as usual, sat on Golden’s back while the two head for home. As they did, Golden turns a corner and accidentally bumps into a young Cadence who was walking with a young Twilight. Silver nearly fell off, but was able to grip onto his mother’s back.

“Oh! I’m so sorry! I didn’t expect that dear!” Golden said as she helped Cadence up.

“Oh no, it is alright miss. I didn’t expect anypony to come around that corner.” Cadence replied.

Silver then looks down at Twilight and waved.

“Oh, hi Twilight!” Silver greeted.

“Hi Silver!” Twilight replied back.

Golden looked down at Twilight with a gentle smile. Cadence looked at Silver and Twilight.

“Oh, is he a friend of yours Twilight?” Cadence asked with a smile.

She nods.

“Yep! My mom knows Mrs. Golden Veil since she goes to her jewelry store! She is a nice pony.”

Golden just giggles.

“You are too sweet little one. But yes, Twilight Velvet is one of my customers.” Golden replied.

She then held her hoof out to Cadence.

“Golden Veil, owner of the Golden Emerald.”

Cadence took her hoof and shook it.

“Cadence. Young princess in the making.” She replied.

This caught both Silver and Golden off guard.

“Oh! Where are my manners?” Golden said suddenly.

“I didn’t notice your wings until now. Forgive me, your highness.” Golden bowed her head.

The young alicorn then just giggled shaking her head.

“Oh don’t worry about bowing, ma’am. Sure, I am learning to be a princess by my auntie Celestia, but just treat me like any other pony. Besides, now I’m Cadence, part-time foalsitter.” She responded, as she pats Twilight on the head, who giggles.

She then looks at Silver, and tilts her head giving him a sweet grin.

“So your Silver, hmm?” Cadence asked.

Suddenly, the young colt tensed up. The older, pretty pink mare being that close suddenly made Silver lose his words.

“Y-yeah.” Silver uttered out.

She giggled.

“Well, you just have to be the cutest little colt I seen. And I had my fair share of watching over colts and fillies, but you seem like a real sweetheart.” Cadence said, before giving Silver a small boop on the nose.

The little colt scrunched his face, as his eyes widened and blushed.

“...Gah...?” Was all Silver said.

Golden and Cadence giggled.

“Oh he is my little angel.” Golden said, giving her son a small nuzzle, which slowly helped fix his mind.

”That day, the two talked for a bit, and Cadence was pretty amazed that how busy she was with running the store, and having to take the time to homeschool me. Mom didn’t mind that much, but Cadence could tell that it was often taking a toll on her, but mom did a good job at not showing it. She really didn’t want to worry me or anypony, though when Cadence offered to act as a foalsitter for me, my mom was just happy. She knew that I was a bright and well-mannered pony, but wished that I would be able to have time to play with other more and not so much being alone or having to be at work with her all the time. Even if I didn’t mind, mom knew the workplace wasn’t a place for a colt as young as me, and that I needed to be out more, you know being a kid.” Silver said.

”After that day, whenever Cadence came by, it was pretty fun. And I guess it made things easier whenever she watched Twilight, considering how well we got together as friends. I sort of saw Cadence as a big sister I never thought I ever wanted, being an only child. She was understanding, kind, caring, gentle, and I don’t know why but I always felt... Safe.” Silver finished, before coming back to the present.





“If anypony is lucky to being marrying Cadence, it would be you Shining.” Silver said with a grin.

Shining gave a prideful grin.

“How many unicorns can just spread love wherever they go? I only know of one! And you’re marrying her!” Twilight declared, before hopping around Shining like Pinkie Pie on a sugar rush.

Shining gave a proud chuckle, while Silver just laughed watching his friend acting like a filly.

“You’re marrying Cadence! You’re marrying Cadence!” Twilight yelled in a sing-song voice.

However, she stopped before a taller, pink alicorn walks out of the doorway, looking down at Twilight.

“I hope I am not interrupting anything important.” Cadence said, raising a brow.

Twilight just almost gasped as she trots over to her.

“Cadence!”

And then, she went and did it. Nothing could prepare Silver than watching Twilight do the chant she and Cadence did when they were younger.

“Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves, and do a little shake!” Twilight sang, as she wiggled her flank up.

Silver, just opened his mouth and looked the other way.

”...Oh sweet Celestia, she actually still does that...” Silver thought, and tried hard not to burst into a fit of laughter.

However, he is able to hold it in, when Cadence just asked, with a bit of confusion and... Slight annoyance in her tone.

“What are you doing?”

Twilight stops, and looks at her confused, before grinning again, getting up to her.

“Cadence, it’s me, Twilight!” She replied with a cute smile.

However, Cadence just brushes this off and walks past her, completely uninterested.

“Uh-huh.”

Twilight now just looked a bit hurt, and further confused, as she watches Cadence go over to Shining.

“Well, I’ve gotta get back to my station, but Cadence will be checking in with all of you to see how things are going.” Shining said, as he wraps his arm around her, while Cadence looks at Twilight with a grin.

“I think I speak for both of us when I say we couldn’t be more excited to have you here. Right, dear?” Shining asked, looking at Cadence.

She then gives a rather sinister looking grin.

“Absolutely.” She replied.

“Well, we’ll let you get to it.” Shining added before giving Cadence a kiss on the cheek.

“And Silver.” Shining called out.

Silver was just watching this quietly, sensing the troubled feeling Twilight was having, and the rather cold feeling he was getting from Cadence.

“Silv!” Shining called again.

“Huh? Yeah, sorry I was miles away. What’s up?” Silver asked.

“I was gonna say if you find the time, stop in to see me. I’ve been kind of interested to hear where you’ve been all this time.” Shining replied with a grin.

“Oh, yeah. Sure, I’ll try and see you when I get the chance.”

With that, Shining leaves them, heading back to his station, as Cadence walks past Twilight, not even giving her a second glance.

Silver walks over to his friend with a worried look.

“You okay, Bookie?” Silver asked.

“...Uh, y-yeah. Sorry, I’m just... Taken aback. I know it’s been so long since we seen her and yet... She didn’t even seem to recognize me that much.” Twilight responded hurt.

Silver placed his hoof on her shoulder.

“Hey. Don’t let it get to you. I’m sure she is just trying to cope with the pressure of making sure her wedding goes without a hitch. Just give her a bit of time, I’m sure she’ll come around.” He said with reassurance.

Twilight sighed, her ears falling flat.

“But... I can’t lie and say I don’t agree with you though. It has been some time, you’d think she would’ve at least been a bit happy to see you... See us.” Silver said quietly.

The two just stood there for a bit longer before Silver broke the silence.

“Well... I guess we should get started on our tasks, eh? After all, the girls need you now so you just do what you do best and get this wedding planned out, yeah?” Silver said, trying to perk her up.

Twilight simply nods, still hurt. She just knows something is wrong, deep in her heart.

As the day went by, Twilight visited each of her friends to help plan out all the preparations for the wedding, however she still couldn’t get the fact of Cadence not seeming to care about seeing her again after so long. While in the palace kitchen, she was checking down the list for food while Applejack was helping the other palace staff get the food prepared, namely the wedding cake, the ice sculpture that took the mare 10 seconds to make, and some fritters which Twilight was given by having an orange hoof shoved into her mouth. Regardless, it was a tasty fritter.

It was all well, until Cadence comes in, declaring to be only referred to as ‘Princess Mi Amore Cadenza’, much to Twilight’s annoyance, yet Applejack didn’t seem bothered by it at all. Twilight did notice more about Cadence’s change, like when trying an apple fritter, she claimed to ‘love-love them’ yet her tone sounded to say otherwise, and then upon being given a bag of fritters to take with her by Applejack, no one but Twilight notice the princess tossing the bag into the small trash bin as she was leaving.

Next, she was with Rarity who was busy preparing the wedding dress for Cadence, as well as the bridesmaids. Twilight voiced her concerns to her friend, yet she seemed to occupied with the task at hand to hear her. Only after Twilight tried to mock Cadence by saying her full name, did she enter the room, to which Rarity immediately complimented on being given the opportunity to design her dress, leading to the same uninterested response as earlier. She wasn’t alone, as three mares followed Cadence into the room, Twilight noticing two pegasi mares and an unicorn. She deduced these were the bridesmaids.

As Rarity described how the dress was being made, Cadence decided to voice her opinion for changes to the dress to be made, like having more beading and more train, as well as a different color. Her bridesmaids each voiced their opinion, who thought the dress looked fine as it was, only to be shut down when Cadence glared coldly at the three mares, whom all flinched and looked away.

The one that looked more visibly hurt was the violet mare with the dark gray mane and ponytail with the Pisces cutie mark. Cadence then makes her final declaration to make them a different color regardless of what her bridesmaids said. Twilight was getting more and more agitated and at the same time, suspicious.

Twilight decided to instead, spy on Cadence who was in the ballroom where Pinkie was explaining how the reception would, in typical Pinkie Pie fashion. Of course, she tells Pinkie that the reception would be perfect if they were celebrating a six-year old’s birthday party before leaving. However, being Pinkie, she took it as a compliment and thanked Cadence without realizing she was being negative towards the bubbly mare.

It was the evening, as Luna decided to change shifts with Celestia, who has been on lookout for the entire day.

“Rest, my sister. As always, I will guard the night.” Luna said, ensuring Celestia with a gentle pat.

Celestia nods, before walking back inside as she decides to turn in for the night after a whole day of watching for potential threats. While that was going on, Twilight and the others were down in a small café hanging outside chatting amongst themselves after a whole day of planning. Twilight exits out of the building, levitating her drink as she approaches the table her friends were at.

“Bet I can guess what you’re all thinking. Cadence is the absolute worst bride-to-be ever.” She spat out as she almost slams her tall glass on the table.

He friends all look at her with a confused look. All the while, Spike was continuing to play with the small bride and groom dolls that were meant for the wedding cake.

“...Where is Silver? He said he’d show up after we were done for the day.” Applejack asked.

Twilight shrugged.

“Probably still busy with his task. He did say he wanted to go visit Shining to catch up, but I asked him before he went home for the evening if Silver stopped, he didn’t.” Twilight replied.

The girls all shrugged, before Rarity looked back at Twilight, who was now sipping her drink.

“Also, Twilight dear, whatever did you mean by your statement before? Cadence is an absolute gem!” Rarity responded with a bright grin.

Twilight just blinked.

“She’s been so demanding though!” She retorted.

Rarity then shrugs.

“Well, of course she is! Why shouldn’t she expect the very best on her wedding day?” She replied with a grin.

Twilight then slapped her forehead, before looking at Applejack.

“Applejack, did you know that after she told you how much she just ‘love-love-loved’ your hors d’eouvres, she threw them in the trash?”

Applejack just stared at her, with her mouth open, but then just gave a sincere smile.

“Aw, she was probably just trying to spare my feelin’s.” She replied.

The lavender unicorn, however, shakes her head.

“No, she was just being fake and totally insincere!”

It was then Fluttershy raised her hoof up to add her opinion into the discussion.

“She did raise her voice at one of my birds during rehearsal.” She calmly said.

Twilight then waves her hoof toward Fluttershy.

“See, rude!” She said, before smiling and crossing her arms.

However, the pegasus brough the small red bird up to the group.

“But he was singing really off-key.”

The bird then sang a note that was off-key, enough it made the other girls jump.

Twilight just couldn’t believe how her friends were being like this. At the time they should believe the distress and signs about how Cadence isn’t acting, they are just more focused on the wedding and getting it done.

“Pinkie Pie, you had to have noticed how Cadence treated–”

She is then cut off as she watches Spike and Pinkie play with the two dolls, making kissing noises for them. She really thought Pinkie Pie would be the one to take this seriously, but alas...

“Never mind.... Rainbow Dash, you believe me right?” Twilight asked, being hopeful that the Bearer of the Element of Loyalty would be on her side.

“Sorry, Twi. Been too busy prepping for my sonic rainboom to pay much attention to the bride’s bad attitude.” Rainbow replied, busy looking at her wings.

At this point, Twilight looked like she was about to blow a gasket. These were her friends for pony’s sake! Rarity then walks over to her.

“The princess is about to get married. I’m sure any negative behavior she might be displaying is simply the result of nerves.” Rarity said, placing a hoof on her shoulder.

However, Twilight had enough and slams her hoof on the table.

“And I’m sure it’s the result of being an awful pony who doesn’t deserve to even know Shining Armor, let alone marry him!” She argued.

Everyone just looked at her, taken aback by Twilight’s attitude about this.

“Think maybe you’re bein’ just a tiny bit possessive of your brother?” Applejack asked.

The rest of the group all responded by agreeing with Applejack. This only caused Twilight to be more upset.

“I am not being possessive, and I am not taking it out on Cadence! You’re all just too caught up in your wedding planning to notice that maybe there shouldn’t even be a wedding!” She yelled, as well as slamming her hoof down again.

This caused her glass to get knocked over, as well as the others drinks, all the while Twilight storms off. The group just look at each other worried.





Luna’s Bedchamber - Canterlot Palace





Meanwhile, Silver was outside Princess Luna’s bedchambers. He is stopped by two thestral ponies.

“I need to speak to Princess Luna, it is urgent.” Silver said calmly.

Aware of his involvement with the assistance of the Royal Guard, they nod before knocking on the door.

“Your Highness, the pony known as Silver Guardian wishes to speak to you urgently.” The guard said.

”Send him in.” Luna responded from inside.

“Yes, Your Highness.” The guard replied back, as they open the doors to the room.

Silver nods to them and heads in, as they close the doors behind him. Silver looks around briefly, as he notices Luna outside on the balcony, looking through the telescope.

“Hey Princess Luna. Sorry to bother you now, but... We need to talk.”

She then looks away from the telescope before looking back at the stallion.

“I take it you have news about our mysterious group that has decided to threaten the sanctity of our city?” Luna asked.

“More of the lines of something that needs to be taken seriously... And it involves the bride-to-be...” Silver said without blinking.

Luna raised her brow.

“Our dearest niece? What is this about, dear Silver?”

Silver paced around for a moment.

“Okay, I just want you to know that I am not pointing hooves at anypony. I just wish to discuss some happenings that have occurred with Princess Cadence, and how the more closer the wedding comes... The more I feel as though trouble will occur.” Silver explained.

“You have my full trust Silver. I am a mare who wishes to hear all the possible outcomes of one’s testimony before judging. You are sensible young pony, so I am confident you will do your best to explain to me what you need to say...” Luna replied.

Silver smiled and nods.

“Thank you for the trust, Princess. I would’ve gone to Princess Celestia, but considering how she has been busy watching over the city and having turned in for the evening, I didn’t want to bother her. Plus, I know she put her full trust in me with this task, but if I am to say what I am about to say to you, she might dismiss it as paranoia, and the fact it is Princess Cadence just having pressure on her to ensure her wedding goes perfectly, and I understand that.”

Luna nods.

“Well, she has been acting rather... More cold as the day went by. When me and Twilight first saw her again, after so long, we didn’t know what to think. We just got done recalling fond memories of Cadence being our foalsitter, and how she was a kind, caring, nurturing pony toward us, and basically anypony else for that matter. However, when Twilight greeted her, she acted as though she doesn’t even remember her or even cared for that matter. I know if there is pressure for the bride of a wedding coming up, but even then she would’ve been happy to see her again. And she didn’t even seem to acknowledge my existence, despite being right next to Shining Armor. I don’t feel the warm, comforting feeling I felt when I was colt with Cadence now... I just feel something dark... Something cold.

I can’t put my hoof on it, but I’m still trying to figure that out. Anyway, in regards to my patrols around Canterlot and the surrounding area, I haven’t seen any signs of intruders or danger. Believe me, I wandered around all over the place today, and found nothing out of the ordinary. However, on my way here... I did overhear something strange between Cadence, and one of her bridesmaids.”





15 minutes earlier





Silver was just wandering around the palace corridors, wanting to make his way into town to go see Twilight and the girls as they were going to meet up after they were done with their tasks for the day, and then stop to see Shining Armor. As he was walking down one lone hallway, devoid of guards strange enough, he heard two familiar voices, arguing.

“Huh...?” Silver mumbled.

He heads to the corner of one hallway, and then peeks around. There he sees Cadence and that violet pony he saw earlier that day while at the train station.

“W-what do you mean Princess? I don’t understand.” Aquamarine asked with sadness.

Cadence just glared down at her.

“I told you, having three silver shoes and one gold shoe is awful.”

Silver wondered if they were talking about the attire for the bridesmaids.

“B-but... This ring is important to me. You said that you were alright with me wearing it regardless of how our dresses would turn out and it would’ve mattered that much.” Aquamarine defended.

“Well... I decided to change my mind. The others didn’t seem to argue over their attires, yet you are making a big deal over this. You are to remove that little shoe of yours and wear all silver! This wedding needs to go perfectly, and I won’t let one of my bridesmaids ruin it over some ring!” Cadenced yelled.

Aquamarine just found herself trembling as she shy’d from Cadence’s glare.

“...W-why are you being like this, Princess? Like earlier when me, Amethyst and Garnet came with you to see your dress and we said we l-loved how it looked, you just ignored our opinions...” She quivered.

Cadence remained silent, before rolling her eyes. She was getting tired of this.

“Maybe you should know this, dear. This is my wedding, not yours. If I want to make the changes to make sure it becomes perfect, I will do it. I won’t allow anypony to turn this into a debate on how how other ponies feel, because their eyes are going to be on me...” Cadence said in a dead calm voice.

She lifted her hoof under Aquamarine’s chin.

“...Do I make myself clear?” She asked.

The violet pony just found herself unable to respond, her mind was racing. However, before she can respond, and unable to be seen from Silver’s perspective, Aquamarine noticed how Cadence’s horn began to emit a green aura. She knew that wasn’t right, but then looking into Cadence’s eyes, they suddenly shifted from violet to dark green, cat-like, eyes as the pegasus began to feel odd.

Her own eyes began to lose their life and shrink to glowing green eyes.

“...Yes. I understand Princess.” Aquamarine responded.

Cadence smirked.

“Good. Now then, come along dear. I have a task for you and the other bridesmaids.” Cadence said, as the two began walking down the hall.

Silver, not able to grasp what happened just now, decided to just make his way out of there. His time with the girls would need to wait, he had to see Princess Luna now.





Present





“It was strange. One moment, the two were arguing over how the bridesmaid wanted their attire to look, and after that, it just ended with violet pony agreeing, and then just leaves with Cadence.” Silver finished.

Luna listened carefully as Silver finished his story. As many would think it was a simple case of just wedding based material, the whole thing involving Cadence acting out toward her own bridesmaid with little hostility, to just them stopping and moving on did seem a bit suspicious.

“You do present an interesting case here dear Silver. While I would just say dear Cadence is trying to make the best out of this to ensure the wedding goes off without a hitch, her behavior as of late has been rather something to note at. My sister disagrees with me, thinking dear Cadenza is just under stress from the preparations and it isn’t something to worry over, however from what you gather, and likely what young Twilight Sparkle thinks, perhaps there is more to this than meets the eye...” Luna deduced, getting up.

“So, what do you think we should do?” Silver asked, getting up too.

“For now, just continue about your time here as normal. Unless Cadenza does something that is beneath her, we can only just keep a close eye on her, as she has done nothing wrong. What you told me will stay in this room, as I don’t wish to worry my sister or our subjects.” She replied.

Silver simply nods.

“Alright, I’ll be sure to keep a closer eye on Cadence. For now though, I shall take my leave. I wish to visit Shining before calling it a night.”

Luna nods as she walks Silver to the door, before opening them.

“Have a pleasant evening, dear Silver Guardian. And have pleasant dreams as well.” Luna said gently with a soft smile.

Silver bows his head down before exiting the room, leaving Luna alone.

“...Things are about to get more interesting... We need to be ready for anything, as it may seem.” Luna muttered to herself after the doors closed.

”...Perhaps, you might get your chance after all...” Luna thought, as she returned to the balcony.





Shining Armor’s Residence - Canterlot





Shining was in his living room, dressed in his uniform for the wedding, adjusting one of the straps to his crest that he plans to wear. As he gets it adjusted, he hears a knock on his door. He goes to answer it and cracks it open, to find his younger sister with a saddened look.

“Twily!” He said with a grin, as he opens the door more to let her sister in.

Twilight just comes in, quiet, as Shining pulls his crest out to show it off to her.

“Your big brother’s looking pretty good, don’t you think?” He asked, smiling proudly.

However, he is answered with Twilight looking up at him with a pitiful look. He then looks at her with a worried look.

“Huh. Is everything okay?” He asked.

She shook her head.

“We have to talk. I think you are making a big--”

She is then interrupted by the sound of someone clearing their throat, revealing Cadence’s presence as she looks down at the two.

“Oh, uh, hi, sweetie!” Shining greeted, surprised.

She simply comes down and approaches Shining, seemingly ignoring Twilight, who gives a frustrated glare.

“She sure has a way of sneaking up on ponies...” She mumbled.

“Can I speak to you for a moment, dear?” Cadence asked, as she heads to a door to another room.

Shining tilts his head before looking down at Twilight, nudging her with his elbow.

“Better go see what she wants.” He said grinning, before heading into the room, closing the door.

Twilight sighed, and begins to hear the two speak, muffled by the door. She then had doubts, but decided to see what they are talking about. She quietly approaches the door, quietly cracking it open and peeks inside as the two talked.

As she approached the door she could make out the subject involving her, before seeing that Cadence didn’t want Shining to wear the crest he had one.

“I thought I made it perfectly clear I didn’t want you to wear that.” Cadence said, slightly frustrated.

“This was my favorite uncle’s.” Shining defended.

“And?” Cadence replied.

“I think I should wear it.” Shining pressed back.

Cadence then approached Shining, giving a soft glare.

“Are you disagreeing with me?”

Shining then furrowed his brows.

“I guess I am.”

Suddenly he is struck by another headache as he winces.

“Oh dear... Is it another one of your headaches?” Cadence asked in a mock worried tone.

Suddenly, her horn flared up green as a beam of green magic hits Shining’s horn, causing him to hit the floor, going wall-eyed.

Twilight gasped quietly, as her eyes widened. Shining gets back up, as his eyes look off and tinted green.

“Feeling better?” She asked.

Shining, as if he was a brainwashed zombie, grunts and nods.

“Mm-hmm.”

Twilight looks away from the door, unable to believe what she witnessed.

“She isn’t just unpleasant and rude. She’s downright evil!” She said aloud.

She then bolts away and out the door, just as Shining and Cadence come out. Shining shakes his head as he sees her sister leave.

“Twilight!” He called out, but went to deaf ears.

“Let her go.” Cadence said with a soft grin.

She leans in and gives him affection, but Shining still ponders over Twilight.

“Huh... It seemed like she had something else she wanted to tell me.” He thought aloud.

Twilight just kept running as she makes her way back to the palace. Luna, who was observing from above at the balcony, hears Twilight, before speaking out loud to her.

“Stay indoors, Twilight Sparkle.” Luna said warily.

She slams open the doors.

“Shining Armor’s in real trouble! You have to help–”

She stops as she just looks at her friends all chatting away, and all wearing dresses. She just looks very confused at what she is looking at.

“Dresses? What are you–?”

Fluttershy flew over, excited as she shows her dress to Twilight.

“Can you believe it? We’re gonna be Princess Mi Amore Cadenza’s new bridesmaids!” She said cheerfully.

“New bridesmaids? What happened to her old bridesmaids?!” Twilight questioned.

Applejack thought for a moment before shrugging it off.

“She didn’t say. But she did tell us that she would love-love-love it if we’d fill in for them.”

“Seeing as we’ve been working so hard and everything.” Rarity added.

“And you had your doubts about her.” Applejack interjected.

“I told you she was an absolute gem!” Rarity added with delight.

Rainbow just looks at her dress, with an undecided look.

“You sure this is what I should wear? Doesn’t seem all that aerodynamic.” She said pulling at the tail end of the dress.

Rarity thinks for a moment.

“Hmm. I’ll see what I can do.”

With that, the rest just excited talk and chatter about it all, while Twilight looks like she is about to have a mental breakdown.

“Looks like I really am on my own.” She said quietly.

“Whose on their own?” A male voice said from behind, causing Twilight to yelp in surprise.

Silver just flinched back, before giving her an apologetic look.

“Woah, sorry Bookie didn’t mean to scare you. I was just coming back from your brother’s but he wasn’t hom--”

He looks past Twilight and sees the others chattering away while wearing their dresses.

“...Did I miss something?” He asked, tilting his head.

Suddenly, Twilight gets up in his face.

“Silver! Listen, you have to listen to me. Shining is in big trouble!”

“Okay okay, first personal space Twilight. Second, slow down, what do you mean?” Silver asked.

Twilight begins explaining what she saw at Shining’s house, as well as everything she was witnessing with Cadence during the day.

“The girls don’t seem to care as they are too excited about being the new bridesmaids, and nopony knows where the old ones are!” Twilight yelled.

Silver’s ears twitched the moment she mentioned Shining acting odd after Cadence used a spell on him, and the fact the bridesmaids were missing.

“...The old bridesmaids are missing?” He asked.

“Silver, we have to warn the Princess! Cadence is clearly evil and nopony doesn’t seem to see that but me!” Twilight screamed as she grabs a hold of Silver.

“Twilight! Ease up!” He yelled.

Twilight suddenly, lets go of him and backs up.

“Okay, now listen. I am with you on that something bizzare is going on around here. You are not the only one that finds Cadence being rather... Shady. Now, I trust you, I really do, but you have to think about this Twilight. You would be accusing not just the bride-to-be, but a princess of Equestria of doing something that is clearly a threat to anypony around. But we can’t do anything unless we have solid proof that Cadence is really doing these things. Just saying what you witnessed won’t be enough, and chances are she will likely defend herself with an excuse that can dismiss yours easily...” Silver explained.

Twilight remained quiet.

“Hey, for now the best we can do is just keep an eye on her. We don’t want to cause an incident just a day before the wedding.” Silver said sagely.

“You expect me to just pretend nothing wrong is happening, when I clearly saw Cadence do something to my brother?! His life could be in danger Silver!” Twilight argued.

“I’m sorry Twilight! I’m just as suspicious about Cadence as you are, but pointing hooves isn’t going to solve anything. Ponies will think you are being paranoid and just make things worse, and just defend it by saying Cadence is just trying to make things perfect for the big day.” Silver rebuked.

Twilight’s ears just fall flat.

“Listen... For now, just go and get some rest alright? I’ll be sure to keep a close eye on things. I know you want to expose this, but you need to have a clear mind. It is late, been a long day for us all. Tomorrow is the rehearsal right? Just go there, and continue to play along, and not do anything rash.” Silver said softly.

She wanted to argue more, but gave in and nods.

“Okay, I’ll swing by tomorrow to watch, but might run late. Just try to be cool, kay?” He said, placing a hoof around her.

Again, Twilight nods sadly.

“Alright, try to have a good night...” Silver said, hugging her softly before letting go and turning around heading home.

Twilight is then alone. What could she do?

“...” Twilight’s expression then hardens as she taps her hoof down.

“I’m sorry Silver but... They have to know... They have to open their eyes...!” She said quietly to herself.

The next day was the wedding rehearsal, as Celestia and Shining were talking with Spike sitting on a step. The organs begin to play as the new bridesmaids all move toward the altar.

“Perfect, girls. No need to rush. Then of course, Cadence will enter.” Celestia instructed.

The Bridal Chorus begins to play, as the two guards by the large doors open revealing Cadence, who looked more content. Shining just looks toward her fiance with light smile as Cadence slowly makes her way to the altar to stand opposite of Shining. She stops and the two be affectionate toward one another, as Celestia nods in approvement.

“I’ll say a few words, and then we’ll begin with the vows. Shining Armor, you’ll get the ring from your best mare.”

Cadence and Shining look to his left, but look surprised when they realize something was missing. Spike just continued to play with the two cake dolls, before tossing the groom doll away.

“Hey, has anypony seen Twilight?” Shining asked.

They all noticed that Twilight wasn’t there when she was needed to be. Everyone just shrugged, before the doors all burst open, surprising the guards. There Twilight stood, and looked rather furious.

“I’m here! I’m not gonna stand next to her! And neither should you!” She yelled.

Everyone just stares at Twilight surprised, while Shining just looks around uncomfortable, before looking to Cadence, who was just frowning and glaring at Twilight.

“I’m sorry, I... I don’t know why she’s acting like this.” He reasoned.

Cadence simply scoffs.

“Maybe we should just ignore her.”

She growled out loud.

“You have to listen to me!”

Fluttershy then meekly approaches Twilight.

“Oh goodness. Are you okay?” She asked quietly.

“I’m fine.” She yelled, causing Fluttershy to back away.

Applejack gives her disapproving look as Twilight slowly makes her way toward the altar.

“Ya sure about that?” Applejack asked.

However, Twilight just shuts her up by pulling her stenson down to her face with her magic.

“I’ve got something to say! She’s evil!” Twilight yells as she points at Cadence.

This just causes everyone in the room to chatter with concern, as the guards also look at each other, one whispering how awkward this is getting. Shining then stepps in front of Cadence defensively. But Twilight disappears and reappears behind the two, glaring at Cadence, who starts to look worried.

“She’s been horrible to my friends, she’s obviously done something to her bridesmaids, and if that wasn’t enough, I saw her put a spell on my brother that made his eyes go all...” She then makes a wall-eyed faces as her eyes spun around.

She backs Cadence into a corner, as everyone all stares at her, with Twilight giving a mad grin. This only causes Cadence to start tearing up and sobbing.

“Why are you doing this to me?!” She cried as she runs past her and toward the doors.

“Because your evil!” Twilight answered smugly.

She then teleports toward the doorway as Cadence runs out.

“Evil! And if I don’t stop you, you’re gonna ruin my brother’s life!” She finished.

This caused Rarity and Rainbow to just look aghast at what they witnessed. Twilight then turns around looking pleased, trotting back before bumping into Shining, who just looks down at her, now furious. Twilight then just gave a weak apologetic look.

“You want to know why my eyes went all...” Shining said as he does the same thing Twilight did, before one of his headaches comes back and making him wince.

“Nuh!” He grunted.

She lifted her hoof up to him, before he backs away to continue.

“Because ever since I started having to perform my protection spell, I’ve been getting terrible migraines. Cadence hasn’t been casting spells on me. She’s been using her magic to heal me!” He retorted.

Twilight just sat down, looking at his brother, wanting to say something, but he wasn’t giving her the chance to as he continues.

“And she decided to replace her bridesmaids because she found out the only reason they wanted to be in the wedding was so that they could meet Canterlot royalty!”

Twilight was just getting no chance for a rebuttal. She never seen her brother this angry with her before, considering they hardly ever fought like this.

“And if she hasn’t been on her best behavior with your friends...” He stomped his hoof down.

The other girls just watched this whole thing in shock.

“...it’s because with me being so busy, she’s had to make all the decisions about the wedding!” He finished.

For that moment, Twilight tried to say something to explain herself.

“But I was just trying to--”

Only Shining cuts her off, not done lecturing her.

“She’s been completely stressed out because it’s really important to her that our big day be perfect! Something that obviously wasn’t important to you!” He screamed.

This causes Twilight to gasp, suddenly realizing what she has done. He then begins to walk away from her toward the doors. His anger starting to lessen, but still had a hint of disappointment in it as he didn’t look at her. Twilight just sits there unable to say anything.

“Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to go and comfort my bride. And you can forget about being my best mare.”

This causes Twilight to form tears in her eyes.

“In fact, if I were you, I wouldn’t show up to the wedding at all.” He said softly, as he leaves the room.

Twilight was just distraught.

The girls look at each other, all looking as disappointed as Shining was.

“C’mon, y’all. Let’s go check on the princess.” Applejack said.

The girls didn’t even look at her, but all looked upset. Spike even walks past Twilight, with a sad look, but also one that did show disapproval.

Celestia was the last one, and even she looked disappointed in her student.

“You have a lot to think about.” Celestia said, not amused by her student's actions.

She walks out slamming the doors shut, leaving Twilight alone in the hall. She was tearing up, as she slowly made her way to the altar, laying on the stairs, filled with nothing but regret.

“Maybe I was being overprotective. I could’ve gained a sister.” She thought aloud as she looks up at the ceiling.

“...but I just lost a brother... Silver, why didn’t I just listen to you...?” She asked herself.

She began seeing a smaller version of Shining and herself playing together happily.


He was my big brother, best friend
Forever...


Then, the smaller Shining disappears leaving the small Twilight alone and confused.


And now, we’ll never do anything
Together...


The smaller Twilight just looks down in sadness, before being shattered by a hoof, and a pony walking toward Twilight. She looks up and sees Cadence, who just gave a content smile, as she gently strokes Twilight’s mane.

“I’m sorry!” Twilight said remorsefully.

However, that content smile came with a sudden shift of eye color, as Cadence’s eyes changed from violet to green, before she replies with a cold look.

“You will be.”

Twilight’s eyes widen as she is suddenly surrounded by green flames and not able to get away. She gives an evil smile as Twilight is surrounded by a green dome and slowly begins to sink into the ground.

The doors open up, however, as a male voice rings out.

“Hey everypony, sorry I’m late but I had to see--” Silver froze.

He just looks in shock and terror as he witness Cadence using her spell to send Twilight somewhere underground. Cadence then looks up and stares at the stallion, as he remains still.

However, that look of terror becomes a glare, and then anger.

He then slams the doors shut.

“I should’ve known... It looks like me and Twilight were right to be suspicious of you...” Silver said in a dead calm tone.

“...You are definitely not Cadence... What did you do to Twilight...?” He asked calmly as he starts approaching her.

'Cadence' just chuckles sinisterly.

“Oh, don’t worry about her. I just sent her away... Where she won’t ruin my plans. After all, she was going to ruin my perfect day.” 'Cadence' replied.

“...Twilight... You didn’t...” He mumbled.

“Oh believe me, I was taken aback by her little outburst. I mean, the fact she witnessed what she did, and having been wary of me since she arrived here... However, the fact that everypony will feel sorry for the saddened bride-to-be, and how I have been at this for almost a week, nopony wouldn’t believe her even if what she said was all true.” 'Cadence' said, pacing back and forth.

“Taking advantage of the fact a wedding this big would only mean it would be natural for the bride to be stressed by the planning, and nopony would be none the wiser to suspect her of her being evil.” Silver said, watching her carefully.

“That little pony has almost ruined my plans. She isn’t as naive as her little friends are, even Princess Celestia doesn’t suspect my ultimate motive.” She chuckles.

Soon Silver was just at the bottom of the stairs.

“Make that two ponies that aren’t as naive. After all, I been monitoring you throughout the day yesterday, and I know Cadence wouldn’t be this way. Even when you were having a little chat with your bridesmaid in the hall last night, and suddenly got her to agree with you over the matter of one gold shoe with three silver shoes being an ugly fashion choice... You brainwashed her to agree with you, got rid of the her and the other two bridesmaids and decided to have my friends act as the replacements without giving a reason why...” Silver deduced.

'Cadence' frowned.

“Well, good thing Celestia tasked me to act as extra security as my role for the wedding. The Royal Guard have been hard work trying to find the intruder who managed to get in Canterlot before Shining’s protection spell was set up... And I happen to be staring right at them now...” Silver smirked.

'Cadence’s' horn flares up.

“Then I guess I gotta make sure you don’t leave this room to blab out to anypony, little colt!”

She fires a beam at Silver, who jumps out of the way and manages to dodge each shot she fired at him. He tries to lunge at her, but she manages to teleport out of the way, causing him to slide across the floor. 

Suddenly he hears a pop behind him, and turns around only to be grabbed and pushed into the wall by 'Cadence', her horn glowing dark green.

“Can’t leave any witnesses behind now...” She mocked.

However, the ring around Silver’s hoof began to emit a green glow. This caused 'Cadence' to notice, but before she realized it...

**TWACK**

She was struck in the face, causing her to yell in pain, letting Silver go. She holds her face wincing. It was then Silver’s eyes widened. The moment 'Cadence' looked at him, part of her face wasn't natural, with what looked like a very dark gray insect-like chiti, part of her mane was now dark cerulean and part of her horn looked twisted.

“...Changeling...” Silver muttered.

He attempted to attack again, but she was quick to surround him with green fire like Twilight. He couldn’t get past it. He knew he was beat... For now.

“I should just end you here... But, perhaps trying to see you suffer underground would be fitting... Nopony will find you or that unicorn...”

Silver just glares as he slowly begins to sink into the floor, before smirking.

“Well, allow me to give you a bit of some parting words then...Hope you have a fun time hiding that shiner... It really suits you.” Silver quipped before finally disappearing into the floor.

After he was gone, ’Cadence’ just hisses, holding her face.

“Blasted little colt...!! How could he be able to cause me to break my disguise like that?!” She yelled, growling.

She then breathes deeply a few times before calming back down, her face slowly begins to shift back to before she was hit, though a faint mark can be seen. She frowned, furrowing her brows.

“No matter... Two possible hindrances have been taken care of. Nopony will know, and all shall continue, for my day slowly comes, hee hee hee...~”

She then disappears in a green flash.





To be continued...




> Chapter 12 - A Canterlot Wedding, Part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------





Crystal Mines - Canterlot





Twilight mumbled as she woke up in darkness. She shook her head as her horn emitted a faint glow to make a light. She looks around, feeling very uneasy.

“W-where am I?” Twilight asked herself.

She gets up and starts wandering around, noticing crystals spread throughout the place, including large walls made of crystal. She had no idea where that fake Cadence had sent her, but she knew she needed to get out of there. She heard the echo of laughter... A familiar one.

“Hello? Is anypony there?” She asks aloud.

She walks around before crashing into a crystal wall, seeing her reflection like a mirror.

Elsewhere, Silver wakes up after his little spat with ‘Cadence’. He shakes his head, noticing how dark it was in where he was.

“Okay... Likely underground. The Crystal Mines...? This place looks like it hasn’t seen use in years...” Silver thought aloud.

He gets up, seeing he was in a lit section of the place. He wanders a bit, before stopping and hearing the echo of a sinister laughter.

“It’s her.” He frowned.

His ears then twitched upon hearing a voice call out.

“Hello? Is anypony there?”

“Twilight...? That’s right, she said she was also down here... I better find her.” He then gallops off down a path, to where he likely heard Twilight.

Back with Twilight, she continued looking around before being surprised by several reflections of the evil Cadence, who just continues to mock her, before finally addressing her.

“The caves beneath Canterlot, once home to greedy unicorns who wanted to claim the gems that could be found inside. And now, your prison.” ‘Cadence mocked.

Twilight started to panic.

“Help! Help!” She yelled.

’Cadence’ looks down at Twilight chuckling at her expense.

”Nopony can hear you down here. And no one will ever think to look for you, either. Most ponies have forgotten that these caves even exist, which is why they are the ideal place to keep the ones who try to interfere with my plans.” She laughed.

“Plans? What plans?” Twilight asked.

“The plans I have for your brother, of course.” ‘Cadence replied.

This caused Twilight to get furious, as she charges her horn.

“Don’t you dare do anything to my brother, you... You monster!” She yelled.

’Cadence’ just continues to play innocent with Twilight.

”The only way you can stop me is by catching me!” Her reflection disappeared.

This caused Twilight to fire her magic at the walls, which just bounced around, as the evil Cadence continued playing with her. Eventually, the beam struck one wall that shattered the reflection like a mirror. Inside, was none other than Cadence, sitting in a corner, disheveled and weakened. The moment the wall shattered, she closed her eyes before seeing who it was. Twilight then seizes the opportunity to tackle Cadence, who tried to reason with her to stop what she was doing.

“No! Wait! Ugh! Please! Don’t hurt me!” She said fearfully.

When she looks up, she smiled.

“Twilight! It’s me! Please, you have to believe me. I’ve been imprisoned like you. The Cadence who brought you down here was an imposter.” She explained.

However, Twilight didn’t believe her.

“Likely story!” She said, not phased.

However, Cadence, weakingly, gets up as she does something that causes Twilight to step back, ears drop as her pupils shrink. An old memory surfaced.

“Sunshine... Sunshine, ladybugs awake.” Cadence did the chant.

Twilight then also did the same finishing the chant with her, as Cadence lightly taps her hoof.

”...Clap your hooves and do a little shake...” Twilight finished.

She looks at Cadence as she gave a genuine, but tired smile. Twilight then smiled brightly as she goes and hugs Cadence tightly, nearly to tears.

“Cadence! You remembered me!” She cried.

Cadence gently strokes her back, holding her tight.

“Of course I remember you... How could I forget the filly I love to sit for the most?” She asked.

”Twilight...! Twilight! Where are you?!” Another voice rang out, calling for Twilight.

“Wait... That voice. That sounded like...” Twilight lets go of Cadence as she looks out where Twilight shattered the wall.

“Silver! Silver is that you?! We’re over here!!” Twilight called back.

They heard the sound of hoofsteps, galloping toward them. Eventually, the blond maned stallion looks inside where the two were and smiled.

“Twilight! And Cadence! It’s really you is it?” Silver said rushing over to them.

Cadence looks at the stallion, suddenly remembering that gentle smile.

“...Silver Guardian...? Is that really you?” Cadence asked, her eyes widen.

“Heh, hey. It’s been awhile.” Silver responded with a soft grin.

Twilight then pulls him in for a hug, as Cadence did the same.

“I can’t believe it! You’re here! Where have you been all this time, Silver?” Cadence asked.

“And how did you get here?” Twilight asked.

Suddenly, they hear the laughter of the fake Cadence echo.

“...That answers it.” Silver responded.

“She got you too?! But how??” Twilight asked surprised.

“I told you I was gonna be late for the rehearsal, I just didn’t expect to see ‘Cadence’ surround you with green fire and have you sink into the floor. I engaged combat with her, and well... She got me by luck... Though not before I punched her face.” He smirked.

“What?! You actually struck her with you hoof??” Twilight just looked at him crazy.

“What is with you doing that? You bucked Nightmare Moon, you sucker punched Discord, and here you actually punched that fake in the face?” Twilight questioned.

He shrugs.

“When I did, was hard enough that it broke her disguise.” Silver replied.

“...Disguise?” Twilight asked.

“That imposter... She’s a changeling. They are capable of disguising as different ponies in order to feed on your love. It is why she has been posing as me for the past week...” Cadence replied.

“And I had my own run-ins with some changelings during my time in isolation south, but we can discuss that for another day. Right now, we need to get out here. Today is the wedding, and that fake is going to marry your fiancee if we don’t move. So, let’s go crash a wedding shall we?” Silver said with a smug grin.

They nod as they all began making their way out of the cave, Cadence having spotted a sparkle of light out in the darkness.









Meanwhile, up top, the fake Cadence was in her room, all dressed in her gown. She then picks up a rose from a basket of flowers before setting in her flower crown, looking into the mirror, sinisterly.



This day is going to be perfect
The kind of day of which I’ve dreamed since I was small
Everypony will gather ‘round
Say I look lovely in my gown
What they don’t know is that I have fooled them all!



Back down in the mines, the three ponies were running down one path, while Cadence realizes the dire situation of trying to stop the wedding.



This day was going to be perfect
The kind of day of which I’ve dreamed since I was small
But instead of having cake
With all my friends to celebrate
My wedding bells, they may not ring for me at all…



Twilight and Silver do their best to try to comfort her, and to give her hope and confidence to continue, as they progress onward.

The evil Cadence then bucks a table that had a bowl of apples in them as she continues her aria. She then closes up on one mannequin as she strokes it a bit, before lifting the top hat from it and firing a beam of magic that destroys it, and proceeds to step on the remains, smashing the flower. She then heads to the vanity as she continues.



I could care less about the dress
I won’t partake in any cake
Vows, well I’ll be lying when I say

That through any kind of weather
I’ll want us to be together
The truth is I don’t care for him at all

No I do not love the groom
In my heart there is no room
But I still want him to be all mine



Cadence, Silver and Twilight keep galloping, checking different cave entrances, before finding one that has a minecart that tracks lead downward. The alicorn rushes over to the minecart, not able to push it as there are two large rocks in them.



We must escape before it’s too late
Find a way to save the day
Hope, I’ll be lying if I say

”I don’t fear that I may lose him
To one who wants to use him
Not care for, love, and cherish him each day”

For I oh so love the groom
All my thoughts he does consume
Oh, Shining Armor, I’ll be there very soon!



Twilight, feeling touched about how determined Cadence is to get to Shining, uses her magic to lift the rocks out and lifts Cadence into the cart. Twilight hops in as Silver pushes and leaps in as it coasters down.

The cart comes to a dead-end, as it ends over a large chasm of sharp rocks and crystal. Silver, using quick thinking, holds onto Cadence, as Twilight does the same to brace for the impact. However, unbeknownst to the two, he was able to quietly cast an easy White Magic spell, Float, on Cadence. While she didn’t feel the effects, she was able to carry both Twilight and Silver as they hung onto her while she spreads her wings and soars after the three were launched from the minecart that hit the barrier. Considering the situation, she didn’t seem to question at all how she was able to hold both ponies, despite her added earth pony strength.

As this happens, the doors to the wedding open as the band places the trumpets to announce the fake Cadence’s arrival. All the guest watch in awe as the CMCs, acting as flower girls, hop before the disguised changeling as she walks down the aisle.



Finally the moment has arrived
For me to be one lucky bride



The three manage to reach a landing, while Silver was quick to cast the Float spell again before landing so Cadence wouldn’t feel as weightless as she was when in the air. Feeling how close it was for the moment, the princess was slowly losing her confidence.



Oh, the wedding we won’t make
He’ll end up marrying a fake
Shining Armor will be...



“...mine. All mine.” The fake Cadence said with an evil cackle.





Everyone in the wedding hall all went silent as Celestia begins the ceremony. The fake Cadence just smiles contently, while Shining doesn’t look normal, yet no one seems to notice this.

“Mares and gentlecolts, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and Shining Armor.”

Back underground, the three made it further, but Cadence looks like she can’t go on.

“Oh, we’re never going to save him.” Cadence said dejected.

Silver goes over and pats her shoulder.

“Come on Caddy...” Silver, opting to use her nickname, with a gentle grin.

“...we can’t give up. We will get through this.”

Twilight looks around hastily.

“He’s right. We just have to find... There!”

They spot a path that lead up, with a light near the end. It was the exit. However, as they were going to make their way, they are stopped.

Cadence gasps, while Silver grunts.

“My bridesmaids!” Cadence said, her hoof over her mouth.

The bridesmaids that went missing, Garnet, Amethyst, and Aquamarine slowly approached the three ponies, their eyes glowing green showing they were brainwashed.

”You’re not going anywhere...” The three said in unison.

Of course, Silver steps before Cadence and Twilight, glaring softly.

“...Damn her...” Silver muttered.

“Silver, please don’t hurt them. They are just under that fake’s spell.” Cadence pleaded.

Silver looks around, as they back away from the three ponies. He then notices something on the ground. It was a bouquet.

“...I wonder.” Silver thought aloud as he grabs the flowers.

He then waves it around the brainwashed mares, who suddenly turn the focus on it, their mouths agape. He then throws it over their heads, as they quickly turned around and jumped after it.

”I GOT IT!” They yelled in unison.

They just stare at the three ponies fighting over the bouquet of flowers. It was then the ruby in Silver’s ring was starting to glow and shifted into a emerald green color.

”My ring is glowing... Just like when it helped with sealing Discord. Is it possible I can break the brainwashing effect off these three?” Silver thought..

It was then Silver began approaching the three, with Cadence and Twilight looking at him in surprise.

“Silver? What are you doing?” Twilight asked.

“Let me try something...” He said approaching the three.

When Aquamarine picked up the bouquet, squealing in delight. She then looked at Silver, who then puts his hoof up and...

**BOOP**

Aquamarine’s face scrunches up, from being booped by the stallion on the nose. After a few seconds, a faint ‘pop’ was heard, and the pegasus’ eyes lose their green glow and start to turn back to their normal color. Cadence just looks with her eyes wide, while Twilight just stares with her mouth agape trying to process what just happened.

Aquamarine just stares at Silver, who sets his hoof down and looks at the two ponies. He then does the same thing to them.

**BOOP**

**BOOP**

Garnet and Amethyst’s faces scrunch up, as their eyes also return to normal after a small ‘pop’ was heard.

“...Huh. That actually worked.” Silver simply said.

His ring then loses its glow as the gemstone reverts back to its normal red color.

“...Uh, what just happened?” Garnet asked.

“Why do I feel funny?” Amethyst asked, holding her head.

Aquamarine was just quiet as she stared into Silver’s eyes.

“...It’s you. That stallion I saw at the train station the other day... The one who was looking at me.” She muttered.

Silver just remained quiet, before nodding.

“Garnet Painter? Amethyst Singer? Aquamarine Dancer?” Cadence asked as she approached the three.

The three mares look to Cadence.

“Princess? Is that really you?” They asked.

Cadence gave a soft smile and nods.

“It’s really me. Twilight found me down here.” She said, before hugging the three ponies.

They each grinned and hugged her back tightly.

“Are you okay Princess??”

“We didn’t hurt you did we?!”

“I thought that one we were with yesterday was really you...”

They each chattered, while Cadence calms them down. They then hear Silver clear his throat.

“Yeah, um. Not to ruin the moment but... We still have a wedding to go crash.” Silver said, rubbing the back of his head awkwardly.

Cadence gasped.

“Oh goodness! He’s right. We must go now, for Shining Armor’s life is at risk and that imposter is almost going to take him from me!” Cadence explained.

The three bridesmaids snap to attention.

“Of course Princess!”

“We’ll accompany three back up!”

“I want to make that fake you pay!”

Cadence smiled and pats each their heads.

“Then let us go, my dear Zodiac Guard.” She said softly.

Silver and Twilight look at each other, as Twilight simply shrugs.

“Zodiac Guard?” Silver asked.

“My personal guard. Considered my own branch of the Royal Guard. They are faithful, and I wanted them to be my bridesmaids. Each represents a sign of the Zodiac, hence the name. I can explain things later, but we really need to get going.” Cadence said, pressingly.

They all agreed and all made haste up the tunnel that lead back up to the surface.

They eventually reach the surface, galloping toward the palace. Thankfully, the street they were on happened to be where Silver’s house was located.

“Hold up, I need to grab my things. One moment.” Silver said, as he bursts into the house.

He rushes upstairs to his bedroom. He grabs his Mythril Sword and attaches it to his side, and then picks up the Oak Staff that has been resting there. He breathes deeply as he sets it on his back through a hidden loop around his cloak and rushes back out, before closing his door.

“Okay! Now we can go!” Silver said as they continued.

Twilight noticed the staff he had with him, and wondered where and why he has one. But decides to question it for later, as they have more pressing matters as they vastly approach the palace.

Back at the wedding Celestia was just getting ready to make the final engagement official.

“Princess Cadence and Shining Armor, it is my great pleasure to pronounce you–”

“STOOOOP!!!” Twilight screamed as she bursts open through the doors.

Everyone in the room starts chattering at the sudden appearance. The fake Cadence, cursing under her breath. Twilight’s friends just can’t believe this as going to happen again, as Rarity simply facehoofs her face, while Spike looks down in shame.

“Ugh! Why does she have to be so possessive of her brother?” She asked as she starts sobbing.

“Why does she have to ruin my special day?” She cried.

”Because, it’s not your special day! Another voice answered.

It is then revealed to be the real Cadence, who walks in.

“It’s mine!” She finished.

Everyone in the room was now more confused at the presence of the second Cadence. The fake Cadence then switched gears, now glaring at them.

“What? How did you escape my bridesmaids?” She demanded.

Cadence and Twilight just gave a smirk to each other. On cue, the bridesmaids stood beside Cadence, all glaring at the imposter.

“What?! How did you...?!” ‘Cadence’ replied.

It was then Silver calmly walks in, as he gives a smirk.

“Hello there. Miss us?” Silver asked, giving a sly smirk.

It was then the fake Cadence just growls under her breathe.

“You...!” She spat.

“So... How is that little ‘parting gift’ I gave you before you sent me away holding up? Heh, it really does suit your look, you know?” He taunted.

The fake held where she received the blow from the stallion, now glaring daggers at him and the five mares.

Applejack and the girls just look at each other before the former speaks up.

“I-I don’t understand. How can there be two of ‘em?” She asked.

Cadence then approaches the altar, replying to Applejack’s question with the reveal.

“She’s a changeling. She takes the form of somepony you love and gains power by feeding off your love for them.”

The evil Cadence’s glare intensifies, knowing she was revealed. A column of green fire surrounds as her eyes glow green as well. The fire explodes up as everyone witness the transformation of the once believed to be Cadence, turning into more tall, lanky looking insect looking pony, with long mane and tail, insect looking wings, and her hooves full of holes. She opens her eyes and begins to cackle as the transformation finishes. The fake reveals her truth form as Queen Chrysalis, queen of the changelings. One thing to note, she appears to have a round mark around her face, that looked as though it chipped a bit of her skin.

The crowd all gasp in horror at the sight. Cadence, Twilight and the Zodiac Guard just stare in awe. Rarity looked at the changeling queen, and was just weirded out.

“Right you are, Princess. And as queen of the changelings, it is up to me to find food for my subjects. Equestria has more love than any place I’ve ever encountered. My fellow changelings will be able to devour so much of it that we will gain more power than we have ever dreamed of!” Chrysalis spoke, her voice sounding distorted as two voices appeared out-of-sync with each other.

“They’ll never get the chance! Shining Armor’s protection spell will keep them from ever even reaching us!” Cadence rebutted.

“Oh, I doubt that. Isn’t that right, dear?” Chrysalis chuckled.

Shining simply nods and grunts, like a mindless zombie.

“Mm-hmm.”

Cadence and Twilight look toward Shining with intense worry, with the former about to charge and take Shining back, but Chrysalis stomps her hoof down, stopping her and causing the princess to back away.

“Ah, ah, ah. Don’t want to go back to the caves, now do you? Ever since I took your place, I’ve been feeding off Shining Armor’s love for you. Every moment he grows weaker and so does his spell. Even now, my minions are chipping away at it.” She explained.

Suddenly, the crowd hears loud ‘humming’ coming from outside. Several hundred Changelings were around the city, as several at the top kept crashing into the barrier, all chuckling, as the barrier was beginning to crack.

“...Oh great.” He muttered.

“He may not be my husband, but he is under my total control now.” Chrysalis chuckled.

Cadence and Twilight gasp.

“And I’m sorry to say, unable to perform his duties as captain of the Royal Guard.” She said mockingly.

“Not my Shining Armor!” Cadence cried.

“Soon, my changeling army will break through. First, we take Canterlot. And then, all of Equestria!” Chrysalis laughed.

“No!” A voice yelled behind her, noticing Celestia glaring at the queen.

“You won’t...!”

“You may have made it impossible for Shining Armor to perform his spell, but now that you have so foolishly revealed your true self...”

Celestia and Chrysalis lock horns and glare into each other’s eyes.

“I shall protect my subjects from you!” She leaps up, her wings spread as she fires a beam of magic at the queen, whom does the same.

The two are locked in a beam struggle. At first Celestia appears determined, while Chrysalis appears to struggle as it nearly goes toward her, however through sheer will, she is soon able to push the beam back toward Celestia. The princess’s eyes widen as her magic is pushed back and manages to strike Celestia’s horn. An explosion erupts as the Sun Princess is blown back, knocking her crown off, hitting the ground near her sliding form, her horn having a scorch mark. Their princess was just overpowered.

Everyone in the room gasped in horror.

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight cried out as she galloped over to her, while the others all do the same.

“Princess!” Silver yelled as he ran with Twilight.

At first, the queen was just taken aback, but then cackles victoriously.

“Ha! Shining Armor’s love for you is even stronger than I thought! Consuming it has made me even more powerful than Celestia!” She said as she hovered above the ground, proud of her victory.

Twilight holds Celestia’s head up to her, as the princess weakly speaks to her.

“The Elements of Harmony. You must get to them and use their power to defeat the queen.” She ordered, wincing in pain.

Silver then looks to Celestia, and then Chrysalis. He then got a serious look.

“Go.” He said.

“What?” Twilight asked.

“You heard the princess. Get the Elements, I’ll stay her to keep her safe.”

“WHAT?!” The girls yelled.

“But Silver, she just--” Twilight as going to argue.

Silver shook his head as he stared at her in the eyes.

“I’ll be fine. My task for the wedding was to be extra security. The princess is down, and she needs protection. You six are more than capable of making it to the tower.” He calmly explained.

“My decision is final. Just go...” Silver said, as his expression got more serious.

“But...” Twilight responded.

“Now! I’m not going to tell you again.” Silver yelled.

She winced, realizing she wasn’t going to get him to change his mind.

“...Please keep her safe... And be careful.” Twilight said sadly.

His expression soften, as he pats her head. He then winks. She then chuckles, as she looks to the girls.

“Come on girls. Let’s go.” Twilight said.

They nod, though Rarity protested.

“Bu-but, Twilight! Our dresses!” She whined.

Silver just gave her a deadpan stare.

“Rares... Time and place. Not now.” He simply said.

Rarity looked like she was gonna scream, but stopped herself before going after the girls.

Chrysalis just watches them go, as the entire room gets cleared out the guests all ran ran for their lives.

“You can run, but you can’t hide!” She laughed

Cadence looks to Aquamarine, Garnet, and Amethyst.

“Go with Twilight. Make sure they reach Canterlot Tower. Don’t let anything stop you, okay?” She said gently.

They were going to protest, but seeing that Silver was that determined to keep things in check here, they knew that the Bearers were important for the safety of Equestria. They then nod.

“Of course Princess. We’ll do our best.” Aquamarine replied softly.

The Zodiac Guard nod and follow after Twilight, leaving Cadence alone with the down Celestia, Silver, Shining, and the Queen.

Soon the barrier finally gave way, as it shatters and the Changelings all poured into the city. Ponies outside can be heard screaming in terror as they run for their lives, trying to get indoors. The Royal Guard were already fighting against the threat, trying to protect citizens. Twilight and her friends were already trying to get to the tower, but get swarmed by many changelings, all which transform into them, forcing them to fight their doubles.

The Zodiac Guard were shown to actually be able to handle themselves, surprising everyone when Aquamarine was able conjure up a water spell that was able to wash several changelings away, all by dancing.

Twilight just stared at her, her mouth agape.

“What?! How... But your a... WHAT?!” Twilight’s mind broke at that moment.

Aquamarine simply gave a sincere smile.

“We are sort of... Special ponies. This is really the few times we can let loose.” She explained.

That didn’t seem to answer her question. Even as they fight for their lives, Twilight still had a million questions.

“What are you girls...?” She thought aloud.

While this went on, from above, one changeling was watching the struggle take place, who had a look of interest. He didn’t seem at all interested in fighting, as he just watched Twilight and her friends, with the Zodiac Guard, fight his brethren.

“It is rather pathetic to think you ponies have a remote fighting chance to stop me... My subjects outnumber you and your little Royal Guard. You have no chance.” She taunts, watching as her subjects go through the city, causing chaos that could make Discord jealous.

Silver kept his blade out, while still keeping Celestia protected.

“Want to see how ‘pathetic’ we can be? Come over here, and I can give that nice little ‘beauty’ mark I gave you another one to compliment it, only it will be your nose that my hoof will introduce itself too.” Silver said.

She whips her head at the stallion, growling.

“You know, I still haven’t forgiven you what you did to me, you blasted little colt. You bellow saying you have a chance of taking us, yet you just witnessed me take down your precious Princess of the Sun with ease! What hope can you possibly have?!”

He just chuckles.

“I could show you... So many ways. I lived in the wastelands for five years, I know what it is like living in the rough. And I even had my fair share of run-ins with you guys...” He smirked.

“...Oh I can just describe how some of your little drones thought they could take me on a fight eight to one...”

The queen started to glare. She had a feeling where this was leading.

“...It makes me feel almost sorry for them. I mean, they are just trying to find a means to survive. Yet, they have to be aggressive about it... Guess they never expected to get their flanks kicked by a single stallion. Imagine that, your little subjects can’t even take on one lone pony, even if they fed on love someplace else prior.”

“You are digging your own grave, little stallion... I suggest you keep quiet before I keep my promise on ending you...” Chrysalis warned, as she slowly approached him.

He just smiled. While this happened, Cadence began to slowly sneak quietly toward Shining, who was still standing there.

“Oh but I didn’t get to the best part... I can be a fair pony, and let some creatures that harass me go. I could’ve let a changeling or two live, so they could have come back to you and describe how they got thrashed by an earth pony... But it makes you wonder during that time, you wondered where some of your drones were when they should’ve reported back to you...” He pressed.

Chrysalis was dangerously close to him, staring down, as her horn slowly started to flare up.

“I said QUIET!” She screamed.

“...Well, do you know how long it took for me to wash the blood off my sword? Even after three days, I was still cleaning what little remained of them...” He said, nonchalantly.

”GrraaaAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!”

This just makes the queen snap, as she screams like a banshee and was about to fire from her horn to end Silver with extreme prejudice, but she didn’t anticipate the fact she was then struck in the face by another beam of magic, this of dark blue origins, and sends her flying back, causing Cadence to leap toward Shining Armor. Chrysalis crashes into the wall in a daze.

This took Silver by surprise, as before him, a familiar blue alicorn lands, donning dark blue armor, and was wielding a sword with a crescent moon and wings design to it.

“...Honesty dear Silver Guardian, even for a pony of my nature, even I find that to be too dark for my tastes, especially coming from a pony like you.” She said not looking at him.

Princess Luna has arrived.

“But, a good distraction nevertheless.” She said smirking.

“Auntie Luna!” Cadence said in a shocked manner.

“Well, nice of you to join the fun, Princess.” Silver said with a grin.

“You think I would just sit idly by, and watch these foul creatures try to overtake our city? Think again, my little pony.” She said walking forward beside Cadence, glaring down at Chrysalis who gets up.

She glared at Luna, more agitated.

“So... The princess of the night decides to show up... You will feel my wrath for doing that.” Chrysalis snarled.

“Hmph, perhaps you should have paid more attention above you. After all, I am more a threat to you than Silver... No offense to you dear.” Luna called back.

“None taken.” Silver shrugged it off.

He then took the time to take his staff out, and holds it down to Celestia.

“Just hold on, Princess...” He said quietly.

A small white glow appeared at the top of the staff, as a gentle green aura surrounded Celestia. The pain was beginning to slowly subside.

She opened her eyes a bit, staring at the young stallion, seeing him use the Cura spell on her.

“...Silver?” She questioned.

He just smiled, which caused Celestia to give a tired smile.

“...You have improved vastly...” She said quietly.

He looks back before looking at Celestia again.

“I’ve learned from a great teacher...” He replied.

This caused her to chuckle.

“...Yes, you have... He would be proud.” She responded, knowing who he was referring to.

Of course, she sees an image of Crimson, standing beside Silver towering over him, using his staff to heal her too. She never knew how alike the two were, even if they were two different species.

“Just take it easy for now. Your sister is here now. We might have a better chance.” He said, still focused on healing.

She looked past him, noticing Luna, donned in her armor from so many years ago. She chuckled.

“Oh Lulu... Even to this day, you never change your outlook in the heart of battle...” She said softly.

“If you don’t seem to understand, I was able to take down your big sister with ease, thanks to the love I absorbed from Shining Armor. If she wasn’t able to stand a chance against me, what makes the little moon princess think she can best me?!” Chrysalis spat.

Luna frowns, looking back at Celestia, as Silver heals her.

“You harmed my sister... I can’t forgive you for that.” Luna chuckled, rather mischievously.

“I could easily go hoof-to-hoof with you, Chrysalis, but... I think a change in lighting is needed.”

Chrysalis raises a brow, wondering what she is talking about. Luna chuckles.

“You are a little hazy on your Equestrian history, are you?”

Her horn begins to glow light blue. She looks back at her downed sister and Silver.

“Trust me on what I am about to do, Tia...” Luna said calmly.

Silver raised his brow, as he noticed how it suddenly looked like it was getting dark outside.

“What the...?” Silver said.

Outside, Twilight and the others managed to reach the Tower, only to be surrounded by countless changelings. They were so close, and weren’t going to give up, as the Zodiac Guard have been helping extensively making it this far. However before the fight continues, everyone, including the changelings, saw how dark it was suddenly getting outside.

“Huh? What’s going on? Why is it suddenly becoming night?” Twilight asked.

“OOH! Maybe Princess Luna wanted to change the mood for the battle!!” Pinkie replied excitedly.

They look at her.

“But if Princess Luna is helping, why make it night time all of the sudden?” Applejack asked.

The moon rose into the air, only the sun remained where it was, as it goes and blocked the sun, creating an eclipse.

Luna began to be covered in a dark mist, as a rather malicious sounding laugh echoed. Luna started to grow a bit taller, her armor turning more cyan blue than what it was. Silver’s eyes widened, not believing what he was seeing.

“No... freaking... way...” He said slowly.

Chrysalis just stepped back, confused and overwhelmed by the magic flowing to Luna. Soon the darkness vanishes, and standing before them was not Luna. She opened her eyes, the cat-like eyes peering into the queen’s very being.

“I was evil once. So, you and I have something in common. I too defeated Celestia many years ago.” She said calmly.

“W-what are you...? Who are you?!” The queen demanded.

It was then, the black alicorn smirked.

“...I am your worst nightmare.”

Nightmare Moon returns once again.

Silver just stared wide eyed. He couldn’t believe it that Luna literally transformed into Nightmare Moon.

“But how...?” Silver asked.

Nightmare simply looks back at him, smirking.

“Simply put, the Elements only weakened me, not outright kill me. I have become the dark half of Luna’s heart, and after seeing how far you seven ponies have come with your friendship, as well as ponies come to appreciate the night... Well I decided to ask for forgiveness, and Luna let me back in... It took months, but I feel as though I am adjusted to this feeling now.” She explained.

“We are one once more, and I am ready to prove that even somepony that once wanted Eternal Night because of her own jealousy... Can change.” She looks back at Chrysalis.

“...Starting with this little bug... That needs to be squashed.” She grinned devilishly.

Celestia looks to Nightmare Moon, having hearing her voice after thousand years. At first, she was terrified, thinking her sister was lost again, but learning that the Elements did more than just free Luna from her, but weakened and wanted to give her a second chance seemed to give Celestia hope. She only hoped everypony would be willing to accept this change.

Silver looks down at Celestia.

“That is as good as I am going to do for you Princess... Just rest for now. We can do this.” He said softly.

Celestia just nods, closing her eyes. He then gets up and trots next to Nightmare Moon, whipping his Mythril Sword out and catching it by the tail.

“I don’t suppose you mind if I tag along, Nightmare Moon. I’m just as eager to have a bit of action too. We may have fought once, but... If you really mean that you changed then I wish to see how good we can do to work together.” Silver said with a grin.

Nightmare just looks down at the stallion, and grinned.

“Never thought we would be working together this time, little colt. This shall prove to be an interesting time.” She chuckled.

Chrysalis just flares her horn, bringing up her bravado again.

“I-It doesn’t matter if the time of day helps you or not, I have come this far! I won’t let anypony stop me and my plans!! Nopo--!!”

She was then caught off guard by being blasted out of the window and outside. Silver held his staff out, having just cast a Fira spell before setting it back on his side.

“Seriously... Will you just shut up for just a minute?” Silver quipped.

Nightmare Moon was just astonished that the earth pony was able to cast a spell... A spell that only one other was capable of doing, however she thought the way it was handled was very amusing. She then chuckles as sees, next to Silver, the image of Crimson in a similar stance.

“So like him...” She thought.

“Shall we give an audience to Her Majesty?” Silver asked Nightmare Moon.

She held her blade up.

“We shall, my dear colt.~”

Both ponies galloped and leaped out the window and landed down in a courtyard, where the queen gets up, now more furious, and confused, now, she wanted nothing more to just rip the stallion’s heart out and smash it.

“Grrrrr... I AM GOING TO ENJOY STABBING YOUR LITTLE HEART OUT AND SMASH IT INTO PASTE!!!” She screamed, eyes now burning with rage.

Silver could only grin, as he whips his blade into a ready position.

“Bring it.”

Soon the three charge at each other, as both Nightmare and Chrysalis’s horns flare up and lunge at each other.

Back up in the wedding hall, Celestia managed to finally get up, feeling a bit more reinvigorated from Silver’s healing spell. She made sure she could use her magic, and saw that the pain in her horn was not there, but it still had a small scorch mark from where the changeling queen struck her. She picks her crown back up, setting it on her head. Cadence was trying to snap Shining out of the spell, but almost fell to tears when she saw how dispodent he looked. She then nuzzles him tenderly, as her horn began to spark, before embracing him.

“Come back to me, Shining Armor... Please.” She sobbed quietly.

As it does, a heart forms from her horn before floating gently onto Shining. This causes him to groan, as his eyes return to normal. Cadence steps back as he shakes his head.

“Ugh... Wh...what happened? Is...is the wedding over?” Shining asked in a daze.

Cadence smiled brightly, as she hugs him again.

“I’m here...!” She cried.

“Cadence? Is it really you?” He asked again.

She nods as she looks into his eyes.

“You’re okay now... It’s me.” She said softly.

Shining then smiled softly as he hugs her again. However, its interrupted, when they continue to hear the mayhem outside.

“What is going on?” Shining asked.

“Changelings dear Shining.” Celestia said, looking down at the scene, as Cadence and Shining looked out.

“No way... Then Twily was...” He then gasped.

“Wait, where is Twilight?” He asked.

“It is alright Shining Armor, your sister and her friends are on their way to retrieve the Elements, although... It has been some time since they left here. I hope they are safe...” Celestia said, worried.

Celestia watches as her sister and Silver take on the changeling queen. As she watches, something deep down in her soul rekindled. That part of her that used to fight to defend Equestria from evil, soon began to rear its head once more.

"For now... I feel as though I need to return the favor Chrysalis gave me..." Celestia muttered.

"Huh? What are you saying auntie?" Cadence asked.

She didn't reply as they were suddenly mesmerized by the golden glow Celestia was casting off. 





Canterlot Tower





Eventually, Twilight and the group reached the doors that housed the Elements of Harmony. Twilight, having been told that the door should now respond to her magic, inserts her horn into the hole as the door glows and opens up, revealing the chest. She lifts the chest and opens it, and the Elements were still inside.

“We got them!” Twilight cheered.

“Alright! Now we can clean up this mess!” Rainbow smacked her hooves together.

Twilight leviates the Elements and gives them to their respective bearer, while she places the Element of Magic on her head.

“Great, now we should get back to Cadence and the rest and stop the queen!” Twilight suggested.

The group of ponies nod as they rush out, but were surprised at the sight of it being dark and the moon blocking the sun.

“What has been happening when we were inside?” Twilight asked aloud.

“Look out! More changelings coming in!” Garnet yelled.

They saw more flying toward them.

“Oh, give us a break already!” Rainbow moaned.

“They really are pests. You take care of some, and more just show up to take over...” Rarity complained.

“Don’t worry girls, we have the Elements, so we should be alright!” Twilight said with determination.

“Right!” They said together.

They jumped back into the fray, but using the Elements, they were able to take out more numbers together.

Back between the brawl against Silver, Nightmare Moon and Chrysalis, the queen was getting overpowered by the combined effort of the alicorn and raw strength of the earth pony. Beams of magic fly all over the place between the two horned beings, while sword swipes strike about on their marks, and other times dodging them.

“Grr...” The queen growled.

“Where is your bravado now you nuisance?” Nightmare taunted.

The queen then looks up, seeing several more of her drones.

“COME AND ASSIST YOUR QUEEN! Overpower these fools!!” She ordered.

They heard her and all began to swarm around Nightmare Moon and Silver. The two went back to back looking around. Chrysalis laughs, despite how beaten she looked.

“Our odds?” Silver asked.

“I’d say they outweigh us 40 to 1. I suppose you can handle this many?” Nightmare replied.

“Well... Might be difficult if one more shows up.” Silver said smirking.

Nightmare chuckles, looking at the enemies around them.

“Then it shall be the one we take care of.” She said with a smirk.

“Oh? You fighting too?” He said looking back.

Then both went silent, as they immediately leap the opposite ends and start striking every drone that come at them. Both used physical means, and magic based means and changelings just drop one by one. While Nightmare is distracted by several drones, she fails to see Chrysalis take the chance to capitalize and try to fire upon Nightmare. She turns to see the beam heading towards her, not having enough time to react to dodge.

She cursed, hoping to cast a shield spell to block the attack, however the beam misses her. A gold halberd manages to smack Chrysalis away, causing her to yell in pain from the surprise attack.

Then, Celestia, donning a gold helm and armor, her mane sticking out like a ponytail, her tail tied with two gold bangles, lands beside Nightmare, as she brings the weapon to her.

“Sister...” Nightmare muttered.

“I feel as though... I need to return the Queen her just deserts.” Celestia smirked.

Silver turns around as he smacks a changeling behind him with his staff, knocking it out. He sees Celestia with them now.

“Princess?” Silver asked, surprised.

He then holds his staff behind him, as he conjured a Thunder spell, and shocked a few changelings that tried to sneak up on him, electrocuting them.

“I am alright now Silver. I feel the odds are now in our favor. As much as I am not the fighter I was once... I still have my duty to protect my subjects. Twilight and her friends should be returning as we speak... And Cadence has freed Shining from the queen’s spell.”

He smiled.

“Awesome.” He grinned.

Chrysalis was just shocked to see Celestia now in the conflict.

“Grr, you ponies just don’t know when to quit! You know the reception has been cancelled, don’t you?!”

Celestia just frowns.

“You may have overpowered me, but in a few minutes, you will have already lost. Until then...” She then points her halberd at the queen.

“I wish to get what I am feeling right now out of the way while I can.”

Nightmare just smirks.

“Fufufu, seems kind of strange to be fighting alongside you like this, dear sister.” Nightmare mused.

“But... It is nice to see you again. I do hope we can put the past behind us.” She said smiling softly.

Celestia just grins.

“Oh little sister...”

Silver casts a Blizzara spell, as a large spire of ice erupted before the two sisters, knocking several changelings up, before shattering.

“Sorry to ruin your bonding but... Still being attacked here.” Silver said, bucking another changeling hard enough, a loud ‘crack’ could be heard before it is sent flying.

The two princesses nod as they continue to hold out. The two princesses and one earth stallion stood back to back to back. It seems as though Chrysalis was getting desperate now, considering the amount of her minions just keep coming, now seeing how these three ponies were the biggest threat to her now. Least with Celestia, her halberd had enough reach it was able to take out several changelings at a time, and when it called for it, Nightmare swapped Luna’s sword for the scythe she used during the battle against Silver after her return, finding it a bit more viable at this point, while Silver continued to slice through the masses with his blade, bashing them in the head with his Oak Staff, or straight up jabbing and bucking them with his hooves.

“It’s as if he is fighting with us, like in the past huh Tia?” Nightmare asked, blasting a changeling with her magic.

“It is, as if his own spirit and will lives on in this pony...” Celestia mused, stabbing a changeling with the tip of her halberd.

Cadence and Shining watched from above in the hall, both in awe as they never seen the princesses in actual combat, and how them and Silver appeared to work together as a team alone. It was then they heard the doors open, and saw Twilight and the others return, with the Elements of Harmony in their possession.

“Twily!” Shining rushes over.

Twilight gasped, and smiled.

“Shining! Your back to normal!” She rushes and hugs her brother tightly.

He does the same, patting her head.

“Thanks to Cadence... Listen, I just wanted to say I’m so sorry for how I treated you yesterday... You were right, and I just exploded in a fit of rage on my own sister who wanted to warn us the danger we face now.” He said remorsefully.

Twilight just gave a sad smile as her friends stood beside her, they also shared a look of regret.

“Yeah, we are so sorry too, Twi. We’ve should’ve listened to you.” Applejack said.

“We were so caught up in the whole wedding planning, we didn’t take you seriously when it mattered. Just like how serious you were when you couldn’t find a friendship problem and we shrugged it off...”

Her friends all embraced her, showing how sorry there were.

“Girls... Shining, it’s alright. It wasn’t your fault. She fooled all of us...” Twilight said gently.

Speaking of which. They look and saw Celestia, Chrysalis and Silver missing.

“Wait a minute, where is the princess? And Silver and Chrysalis for that matter?” Twilight asked.

“Unbelievable!” Aquamarine cried out.

They look to see the Zodiac Guard were looking out down at the courtyard in awe. The rest go over and look at what they were seeing, were in shock. First thing they notices was Nightmare Moon fighting alongside Celestia in armor and using her halberd, and Silver just going to town.

“Is that... NIGHTMARE MOON?!” Twilight screamed in shock.

“How is she back? Didn’t we blast her out of existence with the Elements??” Rainbow asked.

“Aunt Luna came in sometime after you left, and knew that Chrysalis was stronger after absorbing enough of Shining’s love for me and so she was able to transform into Nightmare Moon to give herself an edge. She said the Elements only seemed to weakened her and were suppressed into Luna’s heart and the two agreed to be one, as a means for Nightmare Moon to have a second chance and show she can change.” Cadence explained.

“And Princess Celestia said she wished to join her sister and Silver, felt as though she wished to return the favor to the queen for beating her. She told us they will try to hold out so we can find a way to get rid of Chrysalis and the changelings at once. I’m still too weak to recast my protection spell after what Chrysalis did.” Shining added.

It was then, the three noticed how Chrysalis and several changelings began charging their horns. Silver then jumps before the two princesses.

“Back me up if you will.” Silver said, holding his staff out.

The changelings all fired a combined beam of magic, fueled with the amount of love they absorbed.

“FALL TO US!!” Chrysalis cackled.

“Princesses!” Silver said.

The three charge their own spell as Silver casts a sequential Fira, Blizzara, and Thundara spell, that ends up spiraling around the combined power of the sun and moon from Celestia and Nightmare respectively, and just grew as it did. While Nightmare fires from her horn, Celestia twirled her haberd and channeled her magic through that and fired a beam of magic from the tip of her weapon.

“Call this the Triple Finish!” Silver declared.

Their beam manages to collide with the changelings and starts an large scale beam struggle, as both sides try their hardest to push the beam back to one another.”

Twilight and the rest, as well as several Royal Guard, citizens, and even remaining changelings just get mesmerized by the large beam struggle.

“THIS IS SO AWESOME!!” Rainbow yelled in amazement.

Twilight was just staring in awe and shock. Fluttershy just closed her eyes, too afraid to see the outcome of it all. They never knew that this battle would come to an event like this.

However, Silver was showing signs of increased fatigue and drained magic. He knew they had to end this fast before they get overwhelmed.

“G-Guess I have no choice then... Gonna hate myself later for this...” He said to himself.

”FIRAGA! BLIZZAGA! THUNDAGA!” He screamed as he casts the tier 3 Black Magic spells.

This ends up creating a very large stream of flames, large crystal shards of ice, and giant bolts of lightning around the combined beam, and strengthens it ten-fold. The three manage to push the changeling’s beam back toward them as they tried hard to push it, but with the larger potency of Silver’s magic being added, they soon get overwhelmed by the Triple Finish, and cause a large explosion that knocks ever single changeling that was with Chrysalis away, some outright getting disintegrate by the attack, while the queen herself just screams in agony being blast several yards away.

Despite this, she managed to get back up, but was in so much pain, she could barely stand straight, and only limp.

“C-curse you ponies... You... You will regret this...” Chrysalis grunted.

The the two princesses and stallion just stare down the downed changeling queen.

“Your finished Chrysalis... Admit defeat and this can all stop. I don’t want anymore blood on these hooves... Just fall back down if you know what’s good for you.” Silver said, now exhausted.

The amount of use he got from his magic, just made Silver tired. Celestia and Nightmare can see he nearly leans against Nightmare for support.

“We... We will never submit defeat to you ponies... You will rue the day for this... RUE IT...!” Chrysalis coughed.

She glared at Silver intensely.

“Especially you... One day, I swear I will kill you myself for this... You better watch yourself, little stallion... I will make your suffer for this.” She cursed.

Silver just chuckles.

“Heh... Well I look forward to meeting you again. I’ll be waiting.”

Chrysalis growled lowly, but winced considering how much pain she was.

The group who witnessed all were just in complete shock, awe, confused, and surprised at the same time. Twilight’s jaw was so agape, Rarity simply closes it as her own mouth was agape.

“D... Did we just witness...?” Twilight stuttered.

“Silver worked with the Princess and Nightmare Moon to be several dozen changelings and the queen...? Yeah, I think we did Twilight.” Shining replied, just as shocked.

“...That was so awesome...” Rainbow said in awe.

The Zodiac Guard, namely Aquamarine just stared at Silver. She never knew an earth stallion would possess this much strength, and use magic like this. It was then she saw his cutie mark, noticing the Delta he had, and silently gasped.

”His cutie mark... It is just like... Could he also be like us...?” She thought.

Cadence looks to Shining.

“Shining, we still have other changelings roaming around. We are going to have to get rid of them all before more ponies get hurt. Even if Chrysalis is down, they will likely be more aggressive.”

Shining nods.

“My magic is still a bit weak... But maybe if we do it together...” He said quietly.

“...Let them see how powerful our love can be...” Cadence replied quietly.

“We can help too. We have the Elements, combined with the magic of friendship, it could compliment your love to new heights!” Twilight suggested.

“Right girls?” She asked as the five nod.

“Right!” They said in unison.

Shining and Cadence close their eyes as their magic begins twinkling. A calming wind starts to whip up around them, causing the two to gently hover in the air. The two look and saw they were not expecting this sort of effect, yet they look at each other and just smile and close their eyes once more as they began glowing.

Twilight and the girls nod to each other as they close their eyes and the Elements began shining around them, as they are lifted up into the air. Silver, still leaning against Nightmare, notices his ring shaking. He looks back up were the wedding hall was, seeing a familiar glow. He then grins as he lifts his hoof up, as the ring flies off and appears above the girls. Celestia and Nightmare notice this, with the former remembering what Silver mentioned when they sealed Discord in stone, can see this happen for the first time.

Chrysalis sees the light and just gives a shocked expression.

Cadence and Shining then open their eyes, as Twilight does the same, their eyes glowing white. The two couple then form the shape of a heart as pink barrier begins to form around them, while the Elements of Harmony then launches the rainbow beam and surrounds the barrier and expands out fast.

Silver then smirks as the barrier starts covering all of Canterlot, to which all the changelings and Chrysalis get blown away and out of Canterlot. All the changelings end up getting blasted in different directions, all screaming, including Chrysalis, who ends up getting blow back out toward the Badlands, and is nothing more than a twinkle. Shining, Cadence, Twilight and the girls all gentle float down to the ground, smiling brightly.

Silver’s ring immediately flies back out the window, where instinctively, he holds his hoof out and it slides back in, the gemstone in the ring shifting from green to red again, surprising the princesses.

“So it is true... He does possess the 7th Element. He is the Bearer of Unity...” Celestia murmured.

“This little pony... Quite a fascinating individual...” Nightmare said softly.

Silver sighs deeply, as he finally places his sword back in its scabbard, and his staff on his side.

“Well... It’s over. We won... Now if you excuse me, I really want to nap now... Good night.”

It was then Silver just falls forward and passes out, surprising the two.

“Oh dear...” Celestia said, smiling softly.

“Considering how much of his magic he used... It is no surprise her hasn’t passed out sooner...” Nightmare chuckled.

“Well, I think for now he deserves this... Sweet dreams my little pony.” Celestia said softly.

Nightmare gently pats the stallion.

“I had a wonderful time fighting alongside you two... But now the threat is gone, I shall rest myself and let Luna take the helm.” Nightmare grinned.

“Nightmare Moon... My dear sister... Thank you for your assistance. Without you and Luna’s strength, things could’ve gotten worse.” Celestia smiled.

She just chuckles.

“It was fun, good sister. It is good to know that you still have the flame of battle in you, after all this time... I suppose you felt it too, while we fought alongside Silver?”

They look down at the snoring pony.

“...I have. It reminds me of how we fought evil that nearly consumed this world... And possible the universe we exist in, alongside our ‘mutual friend’. And now, a bit of him, seems to reside in this little pony...” Celestia said softly.

“He shall be stronger as time goes on. I feel that as if his magic has grown since the spell performed by Cadence and Shining Armor was cast, alongside the Elements of Harmony. His potential is still growing...” Nightmare mused.

They took a moment before, Celestia gently hugs Nightmare, whom does the same.

“Rest easy now, sister.”

Nightmare nods, as her horn glows. The moon begins to set, as the sunlight gradually returns and makes it day once again. Nightmare is surrounded by the same mist from before, this time appearing to return within Luna as she shrinks back down to her normal size. Luna’s features return as her armor is now dark blue once more, and the scythe she carried disappears and the sword she wielded is back. She opens her eyes and looks around.

“So, we have won this battle Tia...?” Luna asked.

“It is done. The threat has been banished from Canterlot, however the changelings may return one day, and Chrysalis may return... Since now she wishes take the life of this one...” Celestia frowned, notioning to Silver.

“...He is strong, and will continue to grow strong as the moons go by. I think he will be ready should she return, after all he has an edge over her.” Luna reminded.

Celestia nods.

“We will have to wait and see when that time comes...”

Soon, the two hear hoofsteps rushing to them, and turn to see Twilight and her friends, as well as Shining and Cadence and the Zodiac Guard.

“Princess Celestia! Princess Luna!” Twilight called.

She then goes and hugs Celestia and Luna, as the two smiled. Celestia pats her student’s mane.

“Twilight. I am glad to see you are all alright. You have all done well, and helped bring an end to this invasion.” She said with a soft smile.

“However, I do owe you an apology, my faithful student. You were right to be suspicious of Chrysalis posing as Cadence, and we all doubted you when you were to be taken seriously...”

Twilight smiled before hugging her again.

“I forgive you Princess. She had us all fooled... It wasn’t your fault.” She replied with a sad smile.

The moment is then broke, when they hear the heavy snores of Silver, behind Celestia and Luna.

“Silver! Is he... Okay?” Twilight asked, tilting her head.

The Princesses chuckle.

“Dear Silver is fine, Twilight. After all, he was the one that put more effort in the fight than any of us.” Luna replied.

“Yeah, speaking of which, that fight you three had... Was SO AWESOME!” Rainbow yelled in excitement.

“Gosh Princesses... I knew you were strong, but didn’t think you’d fought like dat!” Applejack said in awe.

“And the armor you are wearing... It is simply divine! You look like actual an actual warrior princess in those!” Rarity gushed.

Celestia and Luna smiled.

“We maybe princesses that wish to keep peace in Equestria, but should there be an event where the lives of our subjects are in danger, then we will do what is necessary to protect the peace. It just has been so long since we last donned our armor and used our weapons.” Luna said, swaying her sword.

“Well, I think we had enough excitement like this for one day...” Celestia mused aloud.

She then looks to Twilight.

“Afterall, you have a real wedding to put together, don’t you?” She asked with a knowing grin.

Twilight looks to Cadence and Shining who smiled down at her, which the unicorn giggled.

“I sure do. But... What about Silver? Shouldn’t somepony... Get him to a bed? I mean I know he doesn’t mind laying on the ground, but still...”

They laughed.

“Don’t worry Twilight. We shall take him to one of the guest rooms where he can rest comfortably. I am sure he will be awake by tomorrow, as the planning can begin anew and for the wedding to start once more the day after tomorrow.” Celestia said with a soft grin.

Shining then lifts Silver up and places him on his back, being careful as he just hung there, still snoozing away.

“I’ll take him to a room. Little guy deserves this for what he has done.”

Unknown to everyone else, they seemed to fail to notice the blue gemstone on Silver, began to faintly glow blue.

They nod, as they all disperse. It would take some time to repair the damage that was brought with the invasion, but with all the changelings being blasted out of the city, it was really the main focus for the day. Thankfully, none of the guests or other citizens of the city have been killed or seriously injured. Just shaken up from it all. Twilight and her friends all were able to take the time to relax, after returning the Element of Harmony to Canterlot Tower for safe keeping and plan out their tasks for tomorrow with the wedding for the real Princess Cadence.

During all that, they just talked about how Silver and the Princesses were able to fight several changelings and Chrysalis head on, despite the queen taking down Celestia after absorbing the love from Shining. Their minds always seemed to go back to one thing:

How did Silver use magic like that?

For the Zodiac Guard, they were happy that the threat was done, and were able to be Cadence’s bridesmaids again, alongside the Bearers, as Shining wanted Twilight to be his best mare again, whom agreed to wholeheartedly. But just like Twilight and her friends, their mind drifted to Silver, as Aquamarine pointed out that his cutie mark had the Delta and how he appeared to have magic in the same vein as they did, yet had a control over fire, ice, and thunder magic.

They wondered if there was a connection with him and the rest of the Zodiac Guard. But for them, time will tell.





Dreamscape





Silver opens his eyes as he found himself in his Dreamscape once again. At first he is confused, but remembers.

“Oh... Right, passed out.” He said to himself.

He gets up and looks around.

“Hmm, fact that I am here in this particular could mean...”

A flash of light erupted all of the sudden behind Silver, as Crimson appeared there.

“...Crimson.” Silver said as he turns around.

The human stood there, still showing that same expression with his eyes, however they soften up, as he is sure if he is seeing a smirk under the face cover.

”...I must say you had quite a day today...”

The pony rolls his eyes.

“You don’t even know half of it...” He said sarcastically.

A soft chuckle escaped the sage’s mouth.

”In either case, your training has appeared to been paying off. You are becoming more adept as your training goes on, as your demonstration with the battle with the Changeling Queen is any indicator.” Crimson pointed out.

“Well, I really hoped I didn’t have to go through with using it, but that staff was shown to actually help me. If I was doing that stuff without it, I probably would’ve been out of the battle before it even started, starting after healing Princess Celestia.” Silver said rubbing the back of his head.

”Heh, then you have put it to good use. You should continue to use it, even if you mastered most of your spells. I could use my magic if I wanted to without the aid of a rod or staff, but you will have better control and an easier time casting your spells with it. May be a simple piece of wood, but all staves and rods serve the same purpose for mages.” 

Silver nods.

“Also, you should know. I am certain my friends saw me use magic when I was with the Princess and Nightmare Moon. Chances are, after the wedding, Twilight is going to be on my case nonstop about it. What should I do?” Silver asked.

”We both knew this would happen eventually. You could only keep this a secret for so long, until you had to resort to using it. There is no shame in it, however, the best option you can do now is be honest with her and your friends. Twilight is a bright young mare, so hopefully she will understand why she won’t be able to use these spells as affectively as you can. Considering she is the Bearer of Magic, she is already more than capable of handling her own with the magic she knows and can learn. It is just your magic would be slightly above hers, considering the power and potency otherworldly magic like this can be, and why it would be too much for even a skilled unicorn, or even alicorn can use. Remember, Celestia and Luna tried to learn a basic Fire and Cure spell, but even with their power, it just isn’t as compatible with the magic of Equis. He explained.

”The reason you are capable of learning this magic and have a firm grasp on it is because... Well to make it simple, it is because we are connected spiritually. You are aware that you are the Bearer of the 7th Element, correct? Crimson asked.

Silver nods.

”Well, who do you think was the first individual to be the inspiration of Unity? He gave a knowing look to the stallion.

“...So basically, because you were technically the first Bearer of Unity, those that would represent it would be able to learn this sort of skill?” Silver asked.

The sage nods.

”I know it will probably be a rough time, but once Twilight understands as to why she or your friends for that matter, can’t go about learning magic of this type, they will likely come to accept it and just move on. Maybe, they will see it as is something unique you bring to the table. After all, who can say they are able to use magic while not a unicorn? Well, you are only half unicorn, but that is beside the point.”

”Anyway, I just wished to say well done for doing what you have done. Granted, you did take in the risk of using magic that you still had to master, after casting Firaga, Blizzaga, and Thundaga in succession, especially after you were already showing signs of fatigue. You lucked out, but try not to do it again as it might not work out so well the next time. And chances are you will likely wake up later with a pounding headache, but give it a bit of time, relax and it will pass. Crimson said, with a shrug.

“Great...” Silver said dejected.

”However, it might be an easier time to master tier three spells now. I have noticed, but your potentially seemed to have opened even more... And well, I think you’ll find out when you wake up later.” He pointed out.

Silver tilts his head.

”But for now, I have a bit of time. So...”

He then draws out his rapier and gets in a ready stance.

”Let’s see how long it will take to get me to one knee.” He smirked.

Silver then draws out his Mythril Sword.

“Alright then. Let’s go.” The stallion said with confidence.

With that, the two charge at each other to begin their quick spar session.





The next day





“Ugh...” Silver groaned, as he winced a bit.

Sitting up, Silver’s eyes crack open, as he finds himself in a large bed. It wasn’t his room, and upon looking more, realizes he is still in the palace.

“Mmm... Must’ve brought me in after I passed out yesterday... Well, he wasn’t lying about the headache.”

He placed his hoof to his head, gently shaking his head lightly. He gets out of the bed, and sees that his cloak, Mythril Sword and staff were hung and resting against the wall near the vanity. He goes into the bathroom, stepping into the bath and took the time to bathe, considering all the action he was in yesterday. Plus, it helped relaxed his mind so it can eventually slowly rid the headache he had.

After twenty minutes, he gets out and dries off. He steps out of the bathroom, going to the vanity and takes the time to get his mane done, so it is back to it’s proper spiky style. He grins and nods.

Noticing that the cloak appeared to have been cleaned, as well as repaired as it did take a bit of damage from the battle, he flings it on, fastening it around his neck and making sure it look proper.

He was about to reach for his sword, but then remembered what Crimson said to him in the dream.

”I have noticed, but your potentially seemed to have opened even more... And well, I think you’ll find out when you wake up later.”

Thinking about it, he was slowly thinking about what he meant. Looking down at the gemstone, there was something about it he noticed.

It felt a bit... Warm. And holding his hoof close to it, he noticed it was giving a bit of light off. It was faint, but it was there.

“...Wait... Maybe...” Silver said softly.

He then focused on his blade. He breathed deeply, and just focused intensely at the sword. At first nothing happened, however it began to shutter a bit, as the gemstone around his neck, slowly began to get brighter. He noticed a faint sparkle around the grip of the blade.

“Come on... Come on...” He worded.

The gemstone started to get more warm as it too started to sparkle as well, emitting a cyan glow. The grip was also now shaking more.

“Please... Work.... WORK.” He grunted.

It was then the sheathed blade slide out of its scabbard and flew right at him, but stopped. He flinched, but opened his eye and noticed it floating before him. He noticed the deep cyan blue aura around the grip, and around his gemstone. His eyes widen.

“...I...I... I did it...” Silver said quietly.

Soon he began chuckling.

“I did it.” He repeated a bit louder.

Then just full on laughter.

“YES! I FINALLY DID IT!!!” He screamed in delight.

Any ponies passing by his door, jumped from his sudden screaming, blinking at what was going on in the room. No matter, he was now happy. After years of trying to find methods of pulling it off, all that research he has done, everything he learned... He finally accomplished what he hoped he could do for a long time.

He was able to tap into his unicorn magic.

During the day, Twilight was going around with Cadence as they visit the girls who were in charge of the tasks to prepare for the wedding. It turned out to go a lot better this time, as Cadence tried the fritters Applejack made and absolutely loved them, she was able to see the new dress Rarity made for her and try it on, adoring it much to the delight of Rarity, visit Fluttershy as she listened to the music rehearsal with songbirds and thought it was wonderful, and enjoyed the time she spent with Pinkie as she planned for the reception.

Twilight was just pleased that everything was planned out perfectly.

The following day, the wedding began once again, with everything restored to what it was before the changeling invasion. Everyone was back in their proper places, this time Twilight stood next to Shining as his best mare, Luna was able to join this time, as she stood next to Celestia, and the bridesmaids, including Aquamarine, Garnet and Amethyst, stood behind Applejack, Rainbow, Pinkie, and Rarity, with Fluttershy near her song birds waiting to begin. As for Silver...





An hour before the start of the wedding





“You wanted to see me Shining?” Silver asked.

“Yeah, I was hoping if would be able to manage this task for us.” Shining replied.

Silver listened.

“I know you were mostly tasked with keeping extra security detail, but now that the changeling threat has ended, it seemed only fair if I have you part of the ceremony as well.” He explained.

Silver’s ears twitched.

“Since I requested Twilight to be my best mare, Cadence thought it would be fair if you’d have the honor of being her Colt of Honor. And I agree with her, considering all you’ve done.”

Silver was taken aback by this. He never thought he meant that much to the two, even after being gone for five years.

“I... I don’t know what to say.” Silver replied, stunned.

Shining pats his back.

“Look, Twilight told me what happened to you. It was sad to learn when you mom died, as I was enrolled for training with the Royal Guard and didn’t know about it until my mom told me when I was visiting home. She was a kind mare, and mom enjoyed talking to when they bumped into each other, but I never knew that it would have affected you that much to run away from home and live alone in someplace like the Badlands for the past five years.”

Silver just remained silent about that.

“Well, I always did look up to you Shining. I mean, you are partly the reason why I wanted to be a guardian pony when I was young. Hadn’t my mom passed away, I likely would’ve gone about enrolling to be a Royal Guard, and who knows, maybe would’ve been under your command when you became a captain. Even after I ran from home, training day in and out in the wastelands, I still was determined to make a difference, to be there when I wasn’t able to save my mom from her illness. I swore that I protect the ones I cared for, and it was all because of being a bit of an inspiration.

Plus, I wouldn’t lie to say I did look up to you like an older brother, as much as I looked up to Cadence as a older sister, as I was an only child. I still often think of you two as such.”

Shining just chuckles, before messing with his mane.

“Aw, thanks kiddo. You were always a bit of a little brother too.” Shining said with a grin.

“But as for your guy’s answer: I would be honored to be Cadence’s Colt of Honor. On the condition I don’t wear a tux. I know it is a wedding, and I can only assume this was a last minute decision that you two thought of, and not that I question Rarity’s time in creating formal wear, but me in a suit of any kind is just... Sorry.” He rubbed the back of his head sheepishly.

“Besides, I am used to sticking out like a sore-hoof. Besides, who’s to say I can’t modify this thing to work with a wedding?”





Silver stood across from Twilight, his cloak was now in the style of a cape that covered his body, the mouth around his neck was flared out on each side. He brandished his Mythril Sword, as he rested his hooves on the pommel as the blade’s tip rested in the floor. He had his eyes closed, while a content grin rested on his face.

Twilight noticed the emblem on Shining’s uniform was a bit crooked. Seeing this, she used her magic to straighten it while Shining gives an approved grin, with Twilight giving a proud one. They see their parents, Night Light and Twilight Velvet, stand near the front as the two gently nuzzle each other, with Velvet dabbing her eyes with a handkerchief.

As it started to quiet down, Fluttershy knew it was time to begin. The songbirds began to whistle out the ‘Bridal March’ as everypony all turn to look toward the doors.

The guards by the door pull the doors open, as Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle gracefully hop down the aisle, swinging their little baskets of flower petals to decorate the floor, as the bride slowly marches behind the three fillies. Shining gave a loving smile, while Cadence did the same looking at him.

Twilight then whispers to Shining while they watch Cadence come down.

“Seriously though...” She started.

“I get why the queen of the changelings wanted to be with you, but how did you get somepony as amazing as Cadence to marry you?” She asked.

Shining gave a bit of thought before looking down at her.

“I told her she wouldn’t just be gaining a husband. She’d be getting a pretty great sister, too.” He replied.

Twilight just gave him a thoughtful smile upon that answer.

The girls just look in awe at Cadence, while Rarity starts getting teary-eyed. While not looking, Applejack quickly snuck her stenson on while trying to play it off, scrunching her face looking around. Rarity, of course, wasn’t paying attention as she dabbed her eyes with a handkerchief. Aquamarine, Garnet, and Amethyst just tried to hold it together, but all three of them began tearing up, as Aquamarine held her hoof to her mouth, showing that she was wearing her class ring this time.

Soon, Cadence walks up the steps and stops before Celestia as she turns to look at her soon-to-be husband, as he does the same. Soon, Celestia begins the ceremony, as everyone turns to look at her.

“Mares and gentlecolts, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of the real Princess Mi Amore Cadenza–”

“Um... Princess Cadence is actually just fine.” Cadence cuts her off, while giving a sheepish grin.

Celestia blinks and just smiled before resuming.

“The union of Princess Cadence and Shining Armor. The strength of their commitment is clear. The power of their love, undeniable.”

The two just stare at each other, smiling contently. Celestia then glances down at Spike, holding the pillow with the rings.

“May we have the rings please?” Celestia asked.

Spike then grins, as he holds them up as Celestia levitates them to the two.

“Princess Cadence, do you take Shining Armor to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and health, to love, honor and obey, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself solely unto him for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.” Cadence replied.

“Shining Armor, do you take Cadence to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and health, to love, honor and obey, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself solely unto him for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.” Shining replied.

She then places each of the rings onto their horns.

“By the power vested in me, in the land of Equestria, I now pronounce you husband and wife!”

With that the two look to the guest who all began clapping their hooves and cheer. Silver simply taps his blade to the floor, as he smiled being silent. Eventually, Cadence and Shining move to the balcony as all of Canterlot look up at the newly weds, cheering and clapping as the two wave to the crowd.

Twilight and the girls all stood a bit aways from the two as they watched them, while Silver stood beside her. Celestia then walks over to Twilight, looking down at her.

“This is your victory as much as theirs. You persisted in the face of doubt, and your actions led to your being able to bring the real Princess Cadence back to us...”

She looks to Silver as well.

“...Both of you. Learning to trust your instincts is a valuable lesson to learn.” Celestia said, close to Twilight’s ear.

They then move out to the balcony, seeing the two hold each other’s hoof, before doing the post wedding kiss.

Twilight’s eyes began to water, while the others just watch, feeling touched by it all. That is until Celestia leans over to Rainbow, who looks at her. She then said the magic words she has been waiting for.

“That’s your cue, Rainbow Dash.” Celestia whispered.

Rainbow grinned brightly as she jumps up and flew off into the air. She managed to circle around Canterlot, picking up enough speed, heading up and then unleashing a large Sonic Rainboom before flying past the palace.

“BEST... WEDDING... EVER!!” Rainbow screamed.

The crowd just watched in awe at the Sonic Rainboom, something that was still amazing to see.





Evening





The reception has commenced down in the courtyard outside. Ponies were gathered around, while Shining and Cadence begin their first dance. Everyone watched the two, looking so peaceful as they danced in the center. Twilight and the others stood toward the right, watching. Luna then lands down, after raising the moon.

“I haven’t missed anything, have I?” She asked.

“Your still good Princess. But now, I think we should... Liven things up a bit, eh?” Silver asked as he looked to Twilight.

Twilight grinned as she looks to Pinkie, who squeals in delight after seeing the nod. She rushes over to a DJ Booth, which was also accompanied by a small group of ponies all looking ready to jam out for this reception. She then pulls up Vinyl Scratch and gets the record set up and begins playing.

“Let’s get this party started!” Pinkie declared.

Pinkie then tosses over a microphone to Twilight as she catches it with her magic, and just began.









 (Twilight Sparkle) (Silver Guardian)




Love is in Bloom
A beautiful bride
A handsome groom
Two hearts becoming one
A bond that cannot be undone

Because love is in bloom
A beautiful bride, a handsome groom
I said, love is in bloom
Starting a life and making room for us




She then passes the microphone to Silver, who catches it with his hoof and starts singing his verse.




Love is in bloom
More than a feeling
Faithful and true
A connection lasting forever
A force holding two hearts together




The ponies all cheered as they booped to the beat, with Cadence and Shining dancing much more faster.




Love is in Bloom  (Love is in Bloom~)
A beautiful bride
A handsome groom
Two hearts becoming one
A bond that cannot be undone

Because love is in bloom  (Love is in Bloom~)
A beautiful bride, a handsome groom
I said, love is in bloom
Starting a life and making room for us





Lemme tell ya about love, lemme tell it just right.
Coming up from above, call it love at first sight.
Lights up a smile; fills you up with delight,
Gets a little too high when two ponies unite!
It’s like riding a bike but without the pedal;
Evil-doers try to mess it up and meddle.
But you settle ‘em down, give a little to share --
Before you know it baby there’s love in the air!
Ponies care about the weight that accompanies their mate.
They salivate affection and they soon graduate
Towards the feeling of love, they don’t bother to hate.
You better tell ‘em how you feel now before it’s too late!
Then you’ll find yourself blank, down to reminisce
About how ya both met and then shared your first kiss.
Some people hiss at this and start huffing and puffing,
I tell ‘em to stop derping out and I give ‘em a muffin.
Did I stutter? Look, here’s some conveyance:
You heart needs swing and a little bit of Cadence!
You need some cheer, spread it peer to peer;
Keep your lover near and they will wipe every tear!
No fear when you got a bride and groom.
No imminent doom or very intimate gloom.
You may think love is fake, well you’re free to assume --
Let there never be hate because love is in bloom!




A moment is shown as several ponies get their pictures taken.

One of Pinkie on the ground, eating a large slice of wedding cake, with ponies cheering her on, while having her face covered in frosting.

Another of Applejack playing a fiddle while two ponies listen to her.

A cute one of Sweetie Belle and Spike dancing together.

One of the Zodiac Guards, with Aquamarine dancing elegantly, while Amethyst looks to be singing and Garnet going along with Aquamarine, while ponies watch in awe.

Another picture shows Rainbow dancing with Soarin, the former looking so excited about it.

One of Rarity alongside Fancypants.

And one of Silver, tossing his Mythril Sword and Oak Staff high into the air. He manages to grab his blade with his tail and at the same time, balanced the staff on the tip of the blade, balancing it while keeping his blade steady, stunning the crowd.





Because love is in bloom  (Love is in Bloom~)
A beautiful bride, a handsome groom
I said, love is in bloom (Love is in Bloom~)
Starting a life and making room for us





Because love is in bloom
(Because love is in bloom)
A beautiful bride, a handsome groom
(A beautiful bride, a handsome groom)
I said, love is in bloom
(I said, love is in bloom)
Starting a life and making room for us
(Starting a life and making room for us)

Love is in bloom
(Love is in bloom)

Love is in bloom
(Love is in bloom)







Soon everyone was outside the front of the palace, as everpony watched as the bride and groom head for their carriage with Twilight and Silver following Shining and Cadence.

“Twilight! Silver! None of this would’ve been possible without you both.” Shining said smiling thoughtfully.

Twilight and Silver just grinned, with the latter nodding.

“Love ya, Twily.” He said softly.

“Love you to, B.B.B.F.F.” Twilight replied as the two embraced.

“You take care of yourself out there, Captain.” Silver said, giving a salute.

“Heh, you take care of yourself out there too, Guardian.” He responded by saluting back.

Before eventually giving each other a hoofist. Cadence then approaches the two.

“Twilight. Silver. You two have made this the most wonderful wedding ever.”

She gives Twilight tight hug.

“To my most favorite little filly I ever foalsat.” Cadence said lovingly.

Twilight giggles.

“To the best foalsitter in the world.” Twilight replied back.

Cadence then moves over, before giving a smirk.

“...What?” Silver looks at her, tilting his head.

She then gives him a light peck on the nose. Suddenly, Silver got deja vu as he stood there, eyes wide, mouth agape, blushing brightly. His mind was broke... Again

“And to the cutest little colt I ever met.~” Cadence said playfully.

“...Guh...” Was Silver’s response.

Twilight just starts laughing.

Cadence then gets in the carriage after Shining.

“Ready to go?” He asked.

Cadence then gasped.

“Oh wait. Almost forgot.”

She then peers out as she tosses the bouquet.

Aquamarine, Garnet, and Amethyst all got ready as they saw it coming. That is until Rarity pushes past the three.

“IT’S MINE!!” She screamed.

She caught it with a crazed look while chuckling madly. That was until the Zodiac Guards all gave Rarity an annoyed and angry look.

“Um... Heh heh... Heh.” She nervously chuckles as she holds it up for them.

Soon the carriage starts moving as down the road, horseshoes rattling, as the crowd all moved forward to wave good-bye to the newly weds.

The girls all moved beside Twilight and Silver, who was still frozen. They just look at him, all breaking into laughter.

“What’s wrong Silver? I thought you were a big, brave stallion who can take on anything. Who knew a little peck on the nose would be your one weakness!?” Rainbow asked.

Suddenly, Silver began moving past the crowd, as he just leaps into a small pond with a splash. It was then followed by a load of air bubbles, followed by what could be considered a muffled scream.

Soon, Silver came back out of the water, dripping wet, but not caring as he moves back with the girls who just look at him.

“...I don’t know what you are talking about.” Silver just replied with a plain tone.

They just laugh again.

“Now this was a great wedding.” Twilight responded with a grin.

Spike then pops up from on top of Pinkie, while they look up at him.

“Oh, yeah? Just wait until you see what I have planned for the bachelor party!” He replied.

Pinkie just raised her brow, while Rarity and Rainbow just roll their eyes the other way.

Eventually the group, including Silver, just all begin to laugh in Spike’s expense. All the while, the fireworks all go off, exploding into the night, into the shape of a heart.





Fields between Ponyville and Canterlot





Crimson stands out in the fields, watching the fireworks go off in Canterlot, the gentle breeze of the wind blowing by them. The tail end of his long coat sways gently in the breeze, his ponytail sways freely to the wind. His hands were resting on the pommel of his unsheathed rapier that glistened in the moonlight.

He then sheaths his blade and begins walking toward the edge of the Everfree, disappearing from sight.





End of one story, prelude to another

> Interlude - Loose Ends
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Two days have passed since the wedding, and after the whole incident with the changelings invading, things began to settle back down for Canterlot as ponies resumed daily lives, but even then many couldn’t stop raving about the wedding and how exciting it all turned out in the end.

Silver was visiting Golden’s grave, wanting to do so before he heads back to Ponyville with Twilight and the others, since Twilight wanted to stay in Canterlot to visit her parents after so long and while Silver could’ve went back to Ponyville at anytime, he figured he’d wait for Twilight and Spike and go back with them. He wished they could stay a bit longer, but he knows the girls have to get back home and resume their daily lives. The young stallion sat there, beside the grave, looking out over Canterlot with a soft grin.

“Yeah mom, you wouldn’t believe how crazy things got. From discovering that the changeling queen was posing as Cadence, to the invasion, and then the wedding proper, no doubt you would’ve been worried for me. And I can’t say I blame you, after having found the real Cadence and Twilight underneath Canterlot, and having to battle Chrysalis alongside the princesses in what I thought was the most epic battle that somepony with the most wild imagination can think up, the day was saved in the end, and Cadence and Shining Armor were able to have their perfect day...” Silver said aloud.

“Although, now it is likely going to be a rough afternoon... The girls all saw me using my magic... Magic I have been trying to keep secret for nearly a year and a half now.” He sighs.

He rubs the back of his head, knowing the moment he heads back, Twilight and the others will be waiting for him... And wanting an explanation from him.

“Well, I knew this was going to happen sooner or later. I’m just surprised that I was able to get away from keeping this whole thing hidden up until now. They do deserve to know, just as Crimson told me in my dream... Though, knowing Twilight and her love for research and always wanting to learn more on magic, she will be on my case about this for weeks on end. Just hope she gets why I’m going to stick by with what I have to tell them and they just move on...”

He just looks up at the sky, the calm and gentle breeze blowing past him on the lonely hill. Eventually he got up.

“Well, I better go face the music then. I know you would understand me if I was telling you this face to face, but I just really hope they accept my reasoning.” Silver muttered as he looks down at the grave.

“I better get going. I’ll be sure to come visit again the next chance I get when visiting Canterlot. Take care... I love you.” He said, with a sad smile.

He kissed his hoof as he gently taps the gravestone and begins his trek down, wanting to take his time. He really needed as much time as he can get to explain to the girls his secret he has kept only hidden, with Celestia and Luna being the only two that were aware.

“...Give me strength for this.” He said to himself, as he walked down the street.

He reached his residence five minutes later, but finds a small note on his door. Recognizing the hornwriting, it was no mistaking that it was Twilight who left the note there. He read it and just only said, plain as day:




Palace.
Now.




She didn’t even leave her name at the end. He could only chuckle, considering how serious Twilight is in writing, but was also apprehensive because he has been hiding a secret for almost a year and a half now, and it is a doozy of a secret. He just sighed, taking the note off the door, placing it inside his cloak and heads to the palace, where Twilight, and no doubt the others, were waiting for him.

”Better get this over with.” He thought.





Silver made his way into the throne room, after being let in by the guard, where he was expected to meet with Twilight and the group, as well as the Princesses who mostly were going to help explain the whole ordeal with him, considering they were the only two to know about Silver’s secret for the longest time.

While he waited, he looked at one of the windows and saw a new one that he was sure he didn’t see yet.

It was a pink window that depicted Cadence and Shining Armor as the main centerpiece, posing in the shape of a heart, symbolizing their love as they within a circle with some sparkles with Canterlot located beneath them. Around them, Twilight and the girls with their respective Element symbol appearing to help the recent newly webs remove the changeling threat from the city.

And across from that, he saw a pure white windows depicting Celestia and Luna instead of Nightmare Moon donned in their armor and weapons, and Silver in center, with his blade and holding a his staff toward a group of changelings with Chrysalis in the center as it showed the epic moment when they were locked in a magic duel that the Princesses and aspiring guardian won, showing Celestia and Luna firing their respective magic, with Silver’s magic being shown with a gout of what looked like fire, ice crystals, and thunderbolts around the mega spell.

Silver couldn’t help be grin, as he found this to be, what he thought, was his crowning achievement.

”It certainly is one of your greater achievements.” Luna’s voice echoed behind him.

Silver, however, didn’t jump or flinch by her sudden appearance, merely his ears twitched as he continued looking at the window.

“Yeah, though it is a shame Nightmare Moon wasn't depicted, considering she was the one helping.” Silver pointed out.

“Indeed, however since not many of our subjects are aware of our reunion, it would only have caused more panic than what was needed, considering the situation we were all in.” Luna replied.

“Besides, she is alright with this as she is not ready to grace the rest of our subjects yet.” She added.

Silver nods.

“I guess. But still, despite all that went on, it was certainly a rush, likely for both you and Princess Celestia.” Silver chuckled.

Luna chuckled as well.

“Even after all this time, she still had her way of handling herself when combating in close quarters. And here I thought I wouldn’t have been rusty after lack of training. After all, we wish to try to bring back the peace without resorting to violence, but considering we were invaded, that was thrown out the window. I knew I may have not been able to handle the queen as I was, but with Nightmare Moon’s power, and bringing a temporary eclipse, I was able to increase our magic more, thus giving us an edge in battle.”

“Nice touch with the eclipse by the way. It really made a change in the mood of the battle.” Silver smirked.

Luna giggled.

“Thank you dear Silver, I suppose it did.” Luna replied.

The two continued to talk, until they were interrupted by the sound of the throne room doors opening. Twilight and the group entered, as they talked amongst themselves, but upon seeing Silver and Luna they are stopped and galloped over.

“Either I was early or you six were late.” Silver said with a smirk.

Rolling their eyes, they laughed. It was then a flash appeared behind Silver, and they saw Celestia appear on her throne. Luna then moves to join her sister as they both look down at the group.

“It seems all of you are here now. We can begin.” Celestia said calmly, as she looks down at Silver.

“Before we do, I just wanted to say thank you all for doing your part in helping stop the changeling invasion.” She said with a  smile.

They all grinned, cheering amongst themselves.

“Despite the odds you girls faced, you were successful in obtaining the Elements of Harmony from Canterlot Tower, mostly in part of Princess Cadence’s own guard being able to assist and escorting you to the tower. As you can see...” Celestia looked to the pink stained glass window.

“Because of your strong bond and friendship, it was able to amplify Cadence and Shining Armor’s love and create a more powerful spell that was able to rid all the changelings from Canterlot. Once more, thank you all.”

Celestia and Luna bow their heads down. The group just took it all in with stride.

“Well we couldn’t just let those creeps run amok and eventually spread throughout Equestria now, could we?” Rainbow smirked.

“Besides, had we listened to Twilight and took her seriously when she saw the signs of how Princess Cadence was acting, we could’ve done something sooner... Instead, we were so caught up with the planning of the wedding, we just didn’t see clearly.” Rarity frowned.

Twilight gave her friends a sad smile.

“Girls, I already said I forgive you. I wasn’t directing my anger at you girls personally, it was toward Chrysalis who fooled everypony.”

“We know that Twi. But, we should’ve stuck by you when you needed us most, like when you were so worried and nearly gone crazy for not being able to write to Princess Celestia your friendship report.” Applejack replied.

She shudders at the memory. She knew she wanted to get their attention and solve a friendship problem, but doing the ‘Want It, Need It’ spell was a bit too much.

“And you were forgiven in that regard by me, Twilight.” Celestia said softly.

“You all have done well in reporting me your findings when it comes to friendship, even by other ponies who helped discovered them. I am sure as time goes on, we will all be able to reflect back to these lessons when a buffer comes between you all...” She added.

They all grinned.

“Now then, onto the main topic at hoof.” Luna spoke up.

Silver sighed. He knew it was time.

“No doubt, most of the residence in Canterlot all witnessed the rather...” Luna then smirked.

“...epic, moment in the invasion, involving our sister and I, as well as young Silver.”

The girls then knew what she was referring to.

“You mean that awesome magic battle that you three had against several changelings and the queen in the courtyard to which you totally won against?” Rainbow asked, grinning brightly.

They nod, chuckling.

“The same. And the main star of this would be Silver. As you all saw, Silver was capable of using magic, but not just normal magic. This type of magic he was wielding is something from beyond Equestria, as one other individual in Equestria’s history was able to use this powerful form of magic, that helped me and my sister take down a more evil foe.” Celestia explained.

“Magic from... beyond Equestria? You mean like, not of this world sort of beyond Princess?” Twilight piped.

The two princesses nod, with Luna speaking up.

“Indeed. There is one part of Equestrian history that isn’t known by many today, as it was something me and my sister wished to keep from the history books, mostly at the request of that individual that helped us. We honored their wishes, and made sure that nopony chronicled the event that occurred several years before my transformation into Nightmare Moon.”

“You see, that individual that helped us in the past is the reason Silver is capable of doing feats that no regular earth pony can do. They are both connected by one thing in particular...” Celestia added.

Celestia looked to the window again, looking at mostly Twilight and her friends surrounding Cadence and Shining Armor. Twilight caught this and saw what she was talking about.

“The Elements of Harmony?” She asked.

“Yes. One thing that many don’t know, aside from us, is that while there was always six Elements that represented friendship, there always circulated myths about other Elements that could have existed but were only dismissed as that: just myths. However, that isn’t the case...”

“Wait, you mean to say that the reason Silver is able to do what he can... Is because he is also a Bearer of the Elements too?”  Twilight asked, arching a brow.

“Mm-hmm. More specifically, he is tied to the mythical 7th Element of Harmony, which was brought into existence after our ‘mutual friend’ helped us rid the evil that nearly consumed not just Equestria, but the world as well. That Element came to be known as the Element of Unity.” Celestia explained.

“...” Silver was just silent as they talked.

“The Element of... Unity?” The girls asked together, confused.

“Unity is often referred to bring all together as one. He was able to stall for time when Nightmare Moon returned and battled her for you six until the Elements could be restored to what they were now. Not only that, he also possess qualities that represent each of your Elements as he is shown to hold each in balance. He is a kind and gentle soul who is willing to help others as well as display some form of generous deeds, loyal to those close to him, humble and honest, capable of having a bit of sense of humor and make others laugh, and of course, possessing powerful magic he is still trying to learn to control.” Celestia elaborated.

The girls just listened in awe.

“But Princess, if Silver is also like us being a bearer of the Elements, where is his Element at?” Fluttershy asked quietly.

Silver just chuckles.

“Think about it, what is the one thing that I am almost never without?” Silver asked.

The girls look at each other and pondered for a bit. He gave them a subtle hint, as he raises his left hoof where his mother’s ring was, as he rubbed the back of his head.

Twilight noticed this and how he was being at that moment. She gasped.

“Your mother’s ring! You almost never take it off because of how important it is to you. You mean to say that her ring... Is also the Element of Unity?” Twilight asked.

“It isn’t so much the ring... But more of the gemstone in the ring. I never knew about it, until after we defeated Discord. You six never noticed but when you were using the Elements on him, my ring literally shook and flew off my hoof and floated alongside you six, and its gemstone went from red to green, and it’s magic combined with yours and was able to seal Discord more soundly. After that, it came back to me and went back around the hoof.” Silver explained.

“And it did again, while you six were helping Cadence and Shining with powering their love, after we weakened Chrysalis.” He added.

“It came to a surprise to us as well. Silver talked to me about his ring doing that, and it does possess magic on par with the Elements, but only seems to activate when it needs to. Other than that, it always remains dormant.” Celestia spoke up.

“...So that is what you two were talking about after we defeated Discord! You mean you two knew about all of this? Why keep this a secret at all, especially the part where Silver... Hello? CAN USE MAGIC THAT IS LIKELY NOT EVEN OF THIS WORLD?” Twilight questioned strongly.

“...That’s why.” Silver replied simply.

Twilight then blinked, before looking at him confused.

“Pardon?” She asked.

“That is why. Twilight, we’ve been friends for a long time, and I know that studying magic is something that you always will enjoy doing no matter what. If I was to have told you that I could use powerful and dangerous magic that has origins not of this world, you would likely be questioning me about it non-stop.” He asked.

“Well of course I would! I mean, Silver, you are probably the first ever earth pony that is able to do what most highly-skilled unicorns, or even the Princesses, could do with ease! Why wouldn’t I want to know more about this magic? I mean, just think about how many unicorns could learn from this and try to replicate it! It could change the world in the magic society!!” Twilight yelled, surprised.

“That isn’t going to be possible my dear student.” Celestia said plainly.

“Huh? What do you mean? If anypony could do what Silver can do, you could certainly do it!” Twilight replied in shock.

“We know, me and Luna attempted to try this magic for ourselves centuries ago when our friend was here... We tried to do a simple fire and healing spell, which according to our friend were two of the most basic spells in his schools of magic, but we were unable perform them. We ended up exhausting nearly all of our magic, for a spell that was the easiest for Silver to pull off.” Celestia explained.

This shocked the ponies, bar Silver and Luna.

“WHAT?!” The shouted in unison.

“It is true. The magic Silver is capable of doing is vastly different from the magic that exists here. Anypony attempting to try to do the spells Silver can do would only end up exhausting their magic reserves to the point of heavy fatigue. As you saw with Silver, even after a year and a half of training this magic, he exhausted himself when he used the third tier of magic in conjunction with the second tier magic to have an edge against the queen and the changelings.” Luna explained.

“A YEAR AND A HALF?! Silver has been at this for nearly two years and didn’t say a thing??” Twilight freaked out.

“Bookie! Did you not just hear why I didn’t mention this to you initially? Yes, I have been learning these spells for almost two years and I only just mastered doing most of the magic in the first two tiers and was in the process of learning tier three magic. I knew the risks of doing spells that I haven’t mastered yet, but I had no other option as I lucked out and was able to bring down the queen, and literally disintegrate several of the changelings into nothing.”

The room goes silent for a moment.

“...Besides, you don’t need to know these spells Twilight. You are already the embodiment of magic itself, already an amazing unicorn and can do more than the standard unicorn could do.” He then said softly.

Twilight looked away, giving a small blush out of bashfulness.

“Rainbow has her incredible speed, Pinkie has her way of making ponies laugh and has her unpredictable nature, AJ has her ways of seeing if a pony is lying or not and her own physical prowess, Rarity has her generous nature and her own methods of using her magic, and Fluttershy is kind and gentle to be able to solve issues without resorting to violence, as well as understanding animals.”

The girls just look around, blushing a bit from their qualities.

“You all have your own unique aspects, and ways of solving problems be it friendship based or not. I’m half a unicorn, but more earth pony by heart, so I would rely on my own strength first and resort to my magic if necessary since I know the danger it can pose on not just others, but to myself if I am not careful.” Silver added.

“So please Twilight. Don’t pressure me into explaining more as to why you or anypony else can't do what I can do. It is better to accept that I can do this and just move on...”

“But... Silver you are...” Twilight defended but was cut off when he stared at her, pleadingly.

She then sighs.

“You can be so stubborn, you know...?” She said, giving a sad smirk.

He chuckles.

“We earth ponies are like that. What can you do?” He shrugs.

“...Alright, I can learn to cope without pestering you about all this...” Twilight replied.

“Thanks Twilight.” Silver said, patting her shoulder.

The princesses just smiled.

“I think this is a good place to leave things off now, hmm?” Celestia asked.

The all nodded.

“Well, I can say that this little private meeting is now adjourned.” Celestia lightly stomped her hoof.





With that, the group decide to head out and enjoy the rest of the day in Canterlot, hanging out together and just enjoy the peace that returned. The next day, they were all aboard the train, heading back to Ponyville, as the girls were just happy to finally head home and return to their daily way of living.

Silver sat in a booth watching out the window as the world goes by, as Twilight sits next to him while the others talked amongst themselves.

“Silver?” Twilight asked.

“Hmm?” Silver replied, still looking out the window.

“I know we agreed to leave things off, but when you mentioned your ‘mentor’ did you mean...?”

He simply nods.

“Yeah. In my dreams, he comes to me... Told me what is likely my destiny, and it is the only time I ever talk to him. We train while in my dreamscape, which is how I got by this past year and a half. Unbelievable, yes, but I apply what I learn in real life.” Silver just explained.

Twilight opened her mouth, but closed it.

“...Do you think... That he could be out there somewhere in Equestria? I mean, how else could he visit you in a dream, which is something I thought Princess Luna was only capable of doing?” Twilight asked.

“...I don’t know, but I do feel that maybe one day we will meet him for real. Until then, we just continue doing what we got to do, right?” Silver said, finally looking at her.

She smiled and nods.

“Right.”

The two remained quiet for a bit, before Silver broke the silence for them both.

“Oh yeah... By the way, there was something I forgot to mention when we were with the princesses.”

Twilight looks at him curiously, raising her brow.

“Huh? What would that be?” She asked.

He then smirked, as the gemstone around his neck glowed a deep cyan blue aura, that pulled his Mythril Sword, which was resting against the wall, to him while he leans against it with his hooves holding the pommel. Twilight’s eyes just bugged out as her mouth hung wide.

“I dunno... You tell me.” Silver simply said smirking.
> Chapter 13 - The Crystal Empire, Part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Four months have passed since the eventful Canterlot wedding, and life has been rather easy going since that day. Aside from sending the occasional creature that resided in the Everfree Forest found its way into Ponyville back to the forest, Twilight and her friends have been going about their lives as per normal.

The day Silver showed the girls that he was capable of performing unicorn magic after the train ride back from Canterlot was when he was able to finally able to start taking his training to the next level, now that he was free from having to use his hooves or tail to use his sword. Despite the fact the girls knew that he was also able to perform Black and White Magic, he still kept that part of his training within his dreams while training with Crimson, who was getting more and more impressed at the progress the young pony has been making the past few months since his magical capabilities have opened up more.

Within two and a half months, Silver had mastered the use of the third tier line of magic, capable of finally using the -aga variants of the main elemental spells, as well as Curaga and even learning to use the Raise spell. Now that he was able to use his unicorn magic to handle his weapon a lot better, swordplay between the sage and stallion started getting more heated as it allowed for Silver to make full use of his sword, but for Crimson this was nothing new given how the sage was able to take on Luna who was able to use her weapons in the same manner when using her magic. 

Prior to this, Silver would often get exhausted when he used his unicorn magic, often being only able to levitate some objects for at least thirty seconds before he tired out. Twilight figured because his unicorn magic has been dormant almost all his life he isn't attuned to it and needed a bit of time and patience before he could use his magic more effectively without exhausting himself out. Because of how swift of a learner Silver is, it only took at least five weeks before he was able to get a better handle with doing levitation spells to where it wouldn't tire him out.

All and all, life in Ponyville was going at a steady pace.

Until Twilight received a letter from Princess Celestia...





Canterlot - Throne Room
11:30 AM





It was another typical morning for the princess of the sun, as she was sitting on her throne, looking through a stack of papers, with her personal aide Raven Inkwell holding up to her as Celestia looked at one. Her thought process was interrupted when the doors to the room open, as a guard gallops down the toward the throne and bowed.

"Urgent news from northern Equestria your highness!"

Celestia nods her head.

"Yes?" She asked.

The guard looked at her, before removing his helmet.

"I am simply to tell you... it has returned." The guard replied.

This causes Celestia's eyes to widen before gasping. She looks to her other guards.

"Find Princess Cadence and Shining Armor immediately." Celestia ordered in a concerned tone.

The other two guards salute.

"Yes, Your Highness." The guard to her right replied.

The three guards then gallop out of the throne room, leaving Celestia alone as Raven left when the first guard came in. She then brings out a parchment and quill as she starts writing a letter.

"My dearest Twilight, you must come to Canterlot at once."





Golden Oaks Library - Ponyville
11:35 AM





Twilight and Spike were busy organizing the books in the library, as per usual. As Spike was carrying another stack of books, he suddenly held his breath as he burps out a scroll. Twilight sees it and knows it is from the princess, and raised her brow.

"Oh? A letter from Princess Celestia?" Twilight asked, as she takes the scroll.

She then opens it and reads for a moment, before gasping, suddenly her calm mood turned into panic.

"A TEST?! PRINCESS CELESTIA WANTS TO GIVE ME AN IMPORTANT TEST?!" She screamed.

She was breathing in a panicking manner, as she looks around and starts running around the place. While this happened, her friends all walked in and just stood there when they saw the mare running about like a madmare.

"Where are all my quills?" She asked aloud. 

She looks at one shelf as she finds her quills and launches them at Spike, who was already at the ready as he catches them in a bag.

"No, no, no, no, no... Ugh! I need the Magical Compendium volumes 1 through 36! Where is it?!" She screamed.

She then looks up at one shelf, eyeing a large book.

"Ah-ha!" 

She pulls it off the shelf with her magic as Spike stood under it, ready to catch the otherwise large book. That was until Silver rushes over and lets it land on his back, causing him to buckle his knees a bit. Spike felt a bit relieved from that, as he really didn't want to have to try to get that book packed.

"Flash cards! I should make some flash cards. Spike, I'm gonna need you to quiz me. On everything. Everything I've ever learned. Ever." Twilight ordered.

She takes out a few large stacks of flash cards as Spike holds onto both stacks with both arms as he looks at the stack and back at Twilight.

This causes Twilight to pause for a moment, looking at him.

"That isn't going to be enough flash cards." Twilight replied.

Spike then sighs before setting the stack of cards down on the floor.

"Twilight, calm down! It's just a test."

This causes Twilight's ears, and eye to twitch.

"...Just a test?" Twilight asked calmly.

Spike knew that tone as he backs away a bit.

"JUST A TEST?!" Twilight asked again, only now screaming in Spike's face.

He backs aware as Twilight continues to approach him, staring down at him angrily.

"Princess Celestia wants to give me some kind of exam, and you're trying to tell me to calm down because it's just a test?!"

Spike, knowing how she is going to react from his answer, rushes out and back wearing makeshift armor made up of large pillows and a helmet.

"Uh... yes?" Spike replied nervously.

This causes Twilight to slowly boil in rage. Silver begins to back away before taking cover behind the nearby couch as the large book landed on the floor behind with a big thud.

"I'd say she's handling things pretty well, considerin'." Applejack said, smirking.

That is when her rage reached its climax and the treehouse then shot up into the air, followed by a loud groan echoing out, before landing back down.





Throne Room - Canterlot
Two hours later





Celestia and Luna stood before the stained-glass window of their victory against the Changeling Invasion, both with a look of concern on their face.

"Are you sure you don't want me to go as well?" Luna asked.

Celestia didn't look at her sister as she still had her eyes on the window, but still replied to her sister's question.

"Yes. Princess Cadance and Shining Armor are already there. The others will be joining them soon."

Luna just sighed, hinting a bit of disappointment.

"The Empire's magic is powerful. It cannot fall again, my sister..." Luna said softly with a frown.

Celestia looks down at Luna, with a look of worry.

"It still haunts you doesn't it, Lulu?" Celestia asked.

The dark blue alicorn nods, her ears drop back.

"Even after all this time, the memories of that day never left my mind. The battle we fought against him, the signs of when Nightmare Moon slowly surfaced... the time everything went down hill for us both..."

Celestia placed a comforting wing around her sister and pulled her in close, before nuzzling her head softly, to which Luna returns it.

"She will succeed at her task. And when she does, we'll know that she is that much closer to being ready... Plus never forget, if he does manage to enter the Empire, Silver will be there to keep him busy..." Celestia said with soft grin.

Luna was about to say more, but they were interrupted by Twilight, who just entered the throne room, with her completely stocked with her books, parchment, scrolls, and quills.

"Ahem!" Twilight cleared her throat, before giving a sheepish grin.

"Trust me, my little sister." Celestia spoke softly.

Luna just nods before making her leave. Twilight walked down as she passes Luna, who simply looks at her without speaking and continued on her way. Twilight eventually approached Celestia as she lifts her heavy saddlebag off her back and places it on the floor, as some of its contents spill out.

"You wanted to see me? To give me a test?" Twilight asked.

"I brought my own quills and plenty of paper to show my work." She said with glee.

One of the scrolls unravels down the carpet toward Celestia, which she lifts her hoof back a bit to where it stop rolling.

"Sorry! Sorry!" Twilight apologized as she started to roll the other end of the scroll up, while Celestia levitates the other end of it and starts to roll it back up.

"This is a different kind of test." Celestia replied.

She then lifts the rest of Twilights things and places them back into her bags, leaving Twilight confused.

"The Crystal Empire has returned." The monarch declared.

Twilight blinks as she begins to worry. She clearly never even heard of it, she starts looking at several books she brought.

"The Crystal Empire? I-I'm sorry, but I thought I studied..." She panics, looking at through several books.

"I don't think there's anything in any of my books th–"

Celestia interrupts her as she begins to walk back toward the throne.

"There wouldn't be. Few remember it ever existed at all. Even my knowledge of the Empire is limited. But what I do know is that it contains a powerful magic." Celestia explained.

She lifts a crystal from a glass container and brings it over to Twilight. Using her magic, the crystal shines and a large 3-D looking map of the Crystal Empire appeared before the two. Twilight looked at it in awe, seeing how the small holographic denizens of the Empire were living a peaceful life.

"One thousand years ago, King Sombra, a unicorn whose heart was black as night, took over the Crystal Empire." She added.

Soon the map started to get covered with dark crystal and the center began forming a dark crystalline palace, before revealing the head of a black unicorn, with a horn that went from dark gray to red, piercing red eyes, with green covering what were once white, and dark, purple smoke emitting from them. He gave a sneering, fanged look as he watches the crystal ponies perform hard labor and being enslaved.

"Me and my sister, as well as the rest of the Royal Guard attempted to retake the Empire and defeat Sombra. This was the day the Crystal Empire fell, as Luna and I did our best to fight him, but even two-to-one he still proved to be a challenge."

"Eventually, he was ultimately overthrown, turned to shadow, and banished to the ice of the arctic north."

Celestia and Luna then appear above him and both shine their horns and strike Sombra down while he was weakened and then begins breaking up and eventually becomes nothing but a cloud of smoke, before he roars loudly and is encased within the ice of the arctic north.

It then showed the Empire slowly recovering from Sombra's hold over it, before started to disappear completely, leaving the crystal in the air.

"But not before he was able to put a curse upon the Empire. A curse that caused it to vanish into thin air." Celestia finished.

The two look at the crystal, as Celestia smiled softly, her horn glows as a ray of light hits the crystal, showing a bright, purple crystal that glowed radiantly, leaving Twilight amazed.

"If the Empire is filled with hope and love, those things are reflected across all of Equestria." Celestia added with a grin.

That was until her grin broke into a serious look, as she closed her eyes.

"If hatred and fear take hold..." 

Her eyes became glowing green and emitted the same smoke like Sombra, as she used dark magic and hit the crystal, this time corrupting it. As the shadow of the crystal grew, dark crystals began erupting around Twilight, causing her to back away in fear.

Celestia then switches back to her normal magic and destroys the crystals with her own magic as they dissipated into nothing. She then begins walking toward a shocked Twilight.

"Which is why I need your help finding a way to protect it."

Twilight just stood there, now more worried and concerned about the task given to her.

"You want me to help protect an entire empire...?" Twilight asked, with hesitance.

Celestia looked down at her.

"It is, as I said, a different kind of test. But one I'm certain you will pass." Celestia said, flashing a caring grin.

Twilight's demeanor changed with a look of confidence.

"How do I begin?" She asked.

The two began walking toward the doors of the throne room as Celestia explains her task further.

"By joining Princess Cadance and Shining Armor in the Crystal Empire." She replied.

Twilight then smiled brightly upon hearing Cadence and Shining being at the Empire.

"My brother is there?" She asked.

"He is. And your Ponyville friends will join you there as well. I have every confidence you will succeed." Celestia replied.

As they head out, they find Luna as well as Silver waiting. Silver wanted to come with Twilight and decided to wait for her outside, and when Luna came out the two just talked for the time they had.

"And when you do, I'll know you are ready to move on to the next level of your studies." Celestia finished.

Luna's gaze upon Twilight caused Twilight to look away from her, seeing how serious she looked.

"But what if I fail?" Twilight asked worriedly.

Celestia, with her motherly look and smile simply shook her head.

"You won't." She simply said.

"But what if I..." Twilight asked again.

"You won't." Celestia said more affirmingly.

Twilight just nods meekly and was about to make her way out, with Silver in tow before Celestia stops them.

"But Twilight, in the end, it must be you and you alone who ultimately assists Princess Cadance and Shining Armor in doing what needs to be done to protect the Empire." Celestia explained.

"Do you understand?" She asked.

Twilight smirked and nods.

"Then go. There is no time to lose." Celestia motioned them to go.

The Princesses look to Silver, whom they simply give a knowingly nod to, which Silver gives back. The doors to the throne room then shut, leaving the two ponies alone, with Twilight looking worried again.

The two head outside the palace, where they see Spike waiting for them, asking whether or not if Twilight passed her test. After not saying anything and looking more down on herself, causing Silver to worry for her well being. Having heard the explanation from Luna while the two talked, he can see why Twilight felt as though she was carrying a heavy burden on her shoulders now.

Suddenly, she starts singing with melancholy about how out of everything she could ever prepare for, a test or quiz, this task given to her was something she wasn't prepared for. As she finishes, they all arrived at the train station, Twilight still looking gloomy, while Spike walks gleefully after her, before it hits him at what they were singing about.

"Prepared... for what exactly?" Spike asked.

She was about to answer, when she heard the hoofsteps of her friends coming over to them.

"Twilight! Uh, did you pass?" Applejack asked awkwardly.

The girls all looked toward her, wondering the same. Twilight just gives a forced grin.

"Are we gonna celebrate your awesomeness with Princess Celestia?" Pinkie asked excitedly.

She then pulls out her party cannon which she sets off, blowing confetti in the air as she leaps up with the stuff.

"Not quite." Twilight replied.

This causes Pinkie, somehow, to make the confetti return back into the cannon and have her fall back down to the ground with a grunt.

"We are going to the Crystal Empire." She confidently added.

The girls just look at each other then, for a few moments silently. Rainbow Dash then just looks at Twilight, confused.

"Crystal what?"





Friendship Express - Northern Equestria
2 hours later





The group finally arrives to the lone train station that was located out in the middle of nowhere. Heavy snow was blowing across the land as the wind howled loudly as the train comes to a complete stop at the platform. The group all come off, wincing at the cold wind of the snow, clearly haven't been prepared for the sudden change of weather. All except for Rarity, who boasts about coming prepared with extra scarves, which Spike followed carrying a large amount of luggage Rarity brought.

Silver, of course, had his cloak and hood up. The cold didn't bother him that much, having spent many cold evenings in the Badlands during late autumn and winter, but considering this was near the arctic, he really didn't want to be out here for long.

"Hard to believe there is even a stop up here... in the middle of nowhere." Silver pointed out.

The group huddled together, while Spike continued to carry the heavy luggage. Silver rolled his eyes and helped lessen his load by setting some of it down.

"Twilight!" A familiar voice yelled out through the wind.

The group heard, as Twilight's ears twitched and looks carefully out, recognizing the voice. 

"Shining Armor?" She asked.

Through the blowing snow, a pony wearing a heavy black scarf and black visors approached the platform, before lifting the visor up with his magic and scarf down with his hoof, gasp out a bit for air before looking at Twilight.

"Twily! You made it!" Shining yelled, smiling brightly.

Twilight grinned just as brightly as she rushes over and hugs her older brother tightly. He returns it, but then looks at her with a serious expression and looks back out toward the frozen wasteland.

"We'd better get moving. There are things out here we really don't want to run into after dark." Shining said with a grim tone.

The group all looked concerned, as Twilight looks at Shining confused and worried. Fluttershy then gulps before speaking up.

"W-what kind of things?"

Shining looks back at them.

"Let's just say the Empire... isn't the only thing that's returned."

The group look at each other, with Silver having a calm and collective look, as he feels his magic begin to slowly 'grasp' for his weapon.

Ten minutes have passed as the group trek through the blowing snow further north. Silver agreed to keep the rear while Shining lead them. The girls kept their eyes closed due to the snow blowing in their faces.

"Something keeps trying to get in! We think it's the unicorn king who originally cursed the place." Shining yells out.

"But Princess Celestia said I was being sent here to find a way to protect the Empire! If King Sombra can't get in, then it must already be protected." Twilight rebutted back.

Before they could comment further, they hear a loud howl and it didn't sound like the wind that was already blowing. This caused the group to stop in their tracks.

Silver, on instinct, already draws his sword out and looks around cautiously.

"I don't think we're alone out here, anymore!" Silver yelled out.

The girls started to panic, Fluttershy mostly.

"Th-That's one of the things, isn't it?" She asked, freaking out.

Shining gets their attention, as the howling gets closer.

"We have to get to the Crystal Empire! Now!" He ordered.

Just soon after, they see a large bellow of black smoke creep toward them, before towering over the group, revealing two glowing green and red eyes that gave off a purple mist. It just growls and roars as it closes in on them.

"MOVE!!" Silver screamed as the other start galloping off forward.

Spike was nearly claimed by Sombra, but thankfully was pulled away by Shining and found his way on Twilight's back.

Seeing how close Sombra was getting, Shining decides to try to make a stand. He fires a bit of magic at him, but he evades the shot. It then lunges forward, as Shining is about to charge another spell.

"AERORA!"

Silver screams out, holding his Oak Staff out, conjuring a medium sized, green vortex of wind toward the large smoke wall. Sombra, caught off guard, was suddenly struck by the strong wind spell, causing him to roar in fury, as well as being blown back a bit.

"Shining, this way!" Silver yelled.

Taking the opportunity, Shining nods and begins galloping forward again with Silver following behind. Sombra, managing to break free of the wind spell, starts darting faster toward them.

"Almost there!" Shining yelled.

They see the girls ahead, but as they kept going, they just vanish from sight. For the girls, they leap into the barrier, all panting out of breathe.

"I-is everypony alright?" Twilight asked, gasping heavily.

The girls all responded, out of breath, a yes.

Just then, they hear two more coming through the barrier, as Silver and Shining land in the grass, panting too.

"Shining Armor! Silver!" Twilight exclaimed, rushing over, as Spike falls off her back and landing on the ground.

"You two okay?" She asked.

"Yeah... we're fine." Shining pants.

He looks over and places his hoof on Silver.

"Thanks for the save back there... Don't know what Sombra could've done if he got to me..." Shining said with a tired grin.

"Don't mention it..." Silver waved it off, placing his staff back in his back.

"Had a feeling regular magic wouldn't affect a large black smoke cloud, but seems wind magic does work wonders, heh..." He chuckled.

"Hey everypony, look!" Pinkie yelled.

The group looks outward and just looks at awe at the Crystal Empire. The palace in the center was just breathtaking, the sun reflecting off the top of the place.

"Wow... that is pretty incredible." Silver said in awe.

"Sparkleriffic!~" Pinkie screamed excitedly.

The group arrives near the center of the empire, as most admired the sight, especially the castle that stood in the very epicenter of the city. Rarity was just gushing at the sheer beauty of it all, it was hard for the mare to contain her excitement.

"It's gorgeous! Absolutely gorgeous!" Rarity exclaimed.

She mumbles a bit, incoherently before continuing.

"There are no words!"

Applejack then comes over and places her hoof against Rarity, snapping out of her world for a moment.

"Focus, Rarity. We're here to help Twilight, not admire the scenery." She explained, as she moved onward.

Rarity then looks toward her, confused. Rainbow walks a bit behind them, looking up with a not amused look.

"Eh, I don't see what the big deal is. Just looks like another old castle to me." Rainbow said flatly.

This caused Rarity to look at her, mouth agape. She couldn't believe what she just heard.

"A– p– guh! Another old...! Have you lost your mind? Look at the magni–"

She is then interrupted as Applejack and Rainbow just laugh at her, the latter clearly messing with her. The two proceed to head inside the tall structure after the other leaving Rarity to just chuckle sheepishly.

"Very funny..." She responded plainly.





Crystal Empire - Throne Room





Cadence sat on the throne, very weary and on the verge of passing out from exhaustion. Her horn emitting her magic, but feels the effects of it slowly draining her. She wanted to sleep, she wanted to eat, but she couldn't for the sake of the Empire. Beside her stood her Zodiac Guard, as the three mares all look at Cadence with worry and concern, doing what they can to keep her awake. Even with their power and comfort, they knew the Princess of Love wouldn't be able to keep this up for long...

That is until they heard a very familiar voice echo out in the vast room.

"Cadence!" Twilight greeted.

The pink alicorn looks up, and suddenly her spirits were lifted as she saw her new sister-in-law approach her with a bright grin. She climbs off the throne as she goes to meet with Twilight. As they meet, they do their special dance.

"Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!" The two said together and laughed.

Aquamarine, Garnet, and Amethyst, upon seeing a bit of hope radiate from Cadence's face, giggled upon seeing the dance she does with Twilight.

Silver just rolled his eyes.

"Girls..." He thought

However, Cadence stops laughing as a sudden jolt of pain hits her as she tries to keep her barrier spell holding strong, as the sky outside flickered from the bright blue to the gray, storm colored clouds that surrounded the empire, before becoming blue again.

This made everyone in the room concerned as Zodiac Guards came over to her to make sure she was alright, to which Cadence simply waved it off. She then looked at Twilight, with a tired smiled.

"One of these days we need to get together when the fate of Equestria isn't hanging in the balance." She chuckled weakly, before sighing.

"Are you okay?" Twilight asked, worried.

Shining then walks over to Cadence's side, with much concern on his face.

"Cadence has been able to use her magic to spread love and light. That seems to be what is protecting it. But she hasn't slept, barely eats. Even with my help in trying to power the barrier, it won't be enough since she is putting everything she has into the spell..." Shining explained.

Cadence then takes a deep breath, while trying to stay awake and on her hooves before looking back at him.

"It's alright Shining Armor, I'm fine." She said tiredly.

Shining shook his head as he placed a gentle hoof on her shoulder.

"She's not fine. She can't go on like this forever, and if her magic were to fade... Well, you saw what's out there waiting for that to happen." Shining noted, looking outside.

The group looked at each other, not wanting to think back at nearly being attacked by Sombra.

"That's why we're here." Twilight said with affirmation.

"Why we're all here." Applejack corrected.

Twilight looks back at them and grinned and nods.

"Well, with Cadence putting all her strength into keeping her spell going, and me trying to keep an eye on signs of trouble in the arctic, we haven't been able to gather much information from the Crystal Ponies." Shining added.

This caused Rarity, to immediately gush out in excitement when he mentioned the crystal ponies.

"Crystal Ponies?! Hahaha, there are Crystal Ponies?!" She asked.

She then looked at everyone who just stared at her. She then giggles meekly, before clearing her throat.

"Please continue." She said, now calm.

They simply roll their eyes as Shining continues with his explanation.

"But we have to believe one of them knows how we can protect the Empire without having to use Cadence's magic."

That was when Twilight suddenly had an idea, one that made her excited.

"A research paper!" Twilight yelled.

Everyone in the room just looked at each other and then at Twilight. They all had a confused look on their faces.

"Huh?" Shining asked.

"Uh, Twilight... Care to explain to the class what you mean by a 'research paper'?" Silver waved.

Twilight giggled.

"That this must be part of my test – to gather information from the Crystal Ponies and deliver it to you!"

She answered, as she points her hoof at Shining and Cadence, who blinked.

"This is gonna be great! I love research papers!" She finished, very giddy.

Rainbow then rolls her eyes.

"Yeah, who doesn't?" She asked, sarcastically.

"Oh-oh-oh! Lemme guess! Is it Spike? Nono, Fluttershy! Rarity?"

Pinkie then tried to guess, as they laugh a bit at Pinkie's antics.

"Don't worry, big brother. I am really good at this sort of thing." Twilight said with strong confidence.

However, that confidence soon became worry and concern as shortly after, the group dispersed out into the city in order to gain information to bring to Shining and Cadence. The first crystal pony that Twilight and Spike visited appeared to have a hard time trying to remember everything that happened during Sombra's rule, something that frightened her as she can only remember the tyrant's evil gaze and laughter, causing her to wince in pain, not wanting to remember all that happened at all.

The others were also have the exact same problem, and couldn't get anything from the residents. They all eventually met back in front of the palace, noting they all turned up with nothing useful. However, Applejack mentions how some of them mentioned looking into finding info at the library, which immediately made Twilight get giddy and excited at the thought.

Soon, the group arrived at the massive library, something that was on par with the library in Canterlot in terms of the amount of books that was kept here. After trying to ask the librarian, Amethyst Maresbury, where to find a book on the history of the Empire, to which the librarian couldn't even recall if she even worked there, sharing the same problem with rest of the crystal ponies in the place, the group started to search all over the place for any books that could help them, but considering the size of the library, it was turning into a lost cause.

That was until Twilight finally found what they were looking for, and it was a book titled History of the Crystal Empire.

Taking this information back to Shining Armor and Cadence, Twilight explains about putting on a Crystal Faire, which was established by the first ruler of the Empire, and becoming an important tradition yearly, as a means to 'renew the spirit of love and unity in the empire so they can protect them from harm'.

With this in mind, the group decide to go out and begin setting everything up for the Crystal Faire. After a couple hours, and to add the finishing touches, Twilight crafted a crystal heart to act as the centerpiece of the Faire. With everything set, Twilight then stands out on the balcony of the palace and makes the announcement of the beginning of the Faire. Slowly, the Crystal Ponies all emerge from their homes as they start to go about the Faire, eventually all of them began to regain their color and the crystal shine as the Faire starts to renew their hope as they partake in the food and games.

Slowly, they all began to remember a time before King Sombra came into power and suddenly remember the Crystal Heart as they head to where Dash and AJ were standing where the heart was located.

"Is it true? Is the Crystal Heart really here at the Faire?" Sapphire Joy asked.

"Sure do! Can't have a Crystal Faire without a crystal heart, right?" Dash asked with a shrug.

It was until the librarian, Amethyst Maresbury, came over and responded to her question.

"Of course you can't. The whole purpose of the Crystal Faire is to lift the spirits of the Crystal Ponies, so the light within them can power the Crystal Heart, so that the Empire can be protected!"

She then gasps as her color and crystal sheen returned.

"I do work at a library!" She exclaimed in amazement.

However, what she said about the Crystal Heart suddenly made Dash and AJ look at each other with confusion as they approach her.

"W-what's that about 'powering the heart'?" Dash hesitantly asked.

In her excitement, not noticing the worry in tone in Dash's question, she responds passively.

"I just can't believe you found it. King Sombra said he'd hidden it away where we would never see it again! I only hope it will still be as powerful after all these years...!"

She then looks away and looked surprised.

"Mm, funnel cake!"

The librarian walks away, leaving AJ and Dash suddenly seeing how important the Crystal Heart really was. The two just glance at each other with more worry as the pegasus flew up to a flagpole at one of the palace spires and grabs the flag before flying back down and drapes the fake heart with it so none of the Crystal Ponies would see it as a clear fake. Twilight, who was reading the book next to the fake heart, felt the flag drape her and just looks at Rainbow Dash with a confused look.

"Rainbow Dash, wha-"

"I-I think we might have a problem...!" Dash cut her off, concerned.

After being explained how important the Heart really was for the Crystal Ponies, she immediately rushes up to the balcony where Cadence, Shining, Silver and the Zodiac Guard were at.

"Twilight? What's wrong?" Silver asked, munching on a funnel cake.

She didn't respond right away as she was searching through page after page in the book.

"I didn't know it was an actual relic! The book didn't mention anything about the Crystal Ponies powering the Heart!" She exclaimed.

The group just look at her, before Silver asked.

"...Say what?"

She then reaches the end of the book, but finds a missing page torn out.

"There's a page missing... How did I not notice?!" 

"It's alright Twilight..." Cadence responded weakly.

However, she began to feel faint as she couldn't stand anymore, but Shining catches her before she hit the floor. Cadence gasps as her horn begins flickering and her magic starts to diminish.

"Twily..." Shining said with worry.

They hear the howling, as the sky around the empire begins to slowly turn into a dark, cloudy sky, with snow blowing in. The barrier was down, and they saw the familiar smoky mass approach the border of the empire. Sombra appears, grinning evilly while growling as he approached.

"Right..." Silver said quietly, as he draws his blade as he walked forward, looking out.

"Time to get to work."





To be continued...




> Chapter 14 - The Crystal Empire, Part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

King Sombra was slowly surrounding the entirety of the Empire as he makes his own way toward the place, laughing. It was surprise that despite the shield being down, the majority of the denizens that are attending the Crystal Faire haven't notice the fact it was snowing and the evil king was literally on the Empire's doorstep.

From the palace balcony, Shining Armor looks on before looking back at Cadence who was passed out on the floor. He immediately rushes over to get her up, shaking her.

"Cadence, wake up. The Empire is under attack...!"

Cadence tiredly tried to open her eyes, but just didn't have enough mana in her to stand. All she wanted was to sleep, but knew that this was essentially a dire situation.

That was until, Silver pulled out a small vial that contained some sort of pink liquid from his cloak and smirked.

"Wakey wakey, Caddy!" Silver yelled, as he tosses the vial over to her.

The vial then shattered above the princess, as the liquid turned into a red magical aura, that suddenly caused Cadence to jump awake, as she gasped.

"I'm awake!" She yelled in surprise.

Shining, Twilight and Rainbow Dash were surprised at how quickly she woke up. With no time to spare, Cadence swiftly brought the shield back up, with Shining assisting her. Sombra, seeing the barrier coming back up, did not like this and made a mad dash toward the Empire, but was too late as his horn ends up getting sliced off by the sudden rise of the barrier, causing him to scream in pain. The horn lands inside, as the barrier was up again completely.

The group sighed in relief.

"That was a close call. Surprised nopony down below noticed what was going on. The Faire must be doing its job keeping their spirits up." Shining remarked.

Twilight looked over to Silver.

"What was that stuff you tossed over to Cadence anyway? A potion?" She asked.

"Sort of. It was an Ether, mostly used to restore one's mana. I was able to meet up with Zecora a few weeks ago and she was able to concoct some for me so I had a means to restore my mana when it ran low while training to use my magic, but Caddy needed it more than me. Stuff is pretty potent, so she should be able to keep the barrier up for awhile longer." Silver explained.

Cadence gave a soft smile at him.

"Thank you, Silver. I don't feel as tired now and likely can keep the barrier going, but that won't matter if we don't find the Crystal Heart."

"Leave that to me! Shining Armor should stay here and help Cadence with the barrier, while I go retrieve the Heart." Twilight declared.

"Aw yeah!" Dash cheered.

The two made their way inside to head back down to the street. Twilight looks back at her friend, who was determined to help find the Heart.

"I've been trying to figure out how I'm meant to pass Celestia's test. Retrieving the Crystal Heart must be it. But there is something else you can do."

"Name it." Dash replied back.

"You and the rest of our friends need to keep the Crystal Faire going!" 

Dash just blinked before flying just above her as they head down the stairs.

"What? With that thing moving into the Empire?" Rainbow questioned.

Twilight knows she has a right to be concerned with Sombra literally just outside that barrier, but she nods.

"The whole purpose of the Crystal Faire is to lift the spirits of the Crystal Ponies, so they can activate the Crystal Heart." She explained.

"Yeah, and?" Dash replied, already aware of that information.

The lavender unicorn looks down, frowning as she glances back up at her friend.

"If the Crystal Ponies find out that King Sombra is trying to take over the Empire again, their spirits are gonna be anything but lifted. It won't matter if I find the Crystal Heart. They won't be able to make it work. You have to keep them happy here at the Faire."

"Keep the Faire going and the Crystal Ponies' spirits high. Done and done!" Dash nodded in understanding as she flew off, needing to warn the others about the situation.

Above, Cadence and Shining look down at the street seeing Twilight as she looks back up at them.

"Twily, be careful." Shining called down.

"I will." Twilight replies as she gallops off.

The two then look at Silver and the other three of the Zodiac Guard.

"We can't let anypony in the Faire be aware of King Sombra being just outside the Empire. If they likely see Sombra, then their spirits are going to drop fast, and then it will be hopeless even if the Heart is located." Shining explains.

"Aquamarine, Amethyst, Garnet. I want you three to join Twilight's friends and help keep the Crystal Ponies occupied with the Faire. Do what you do best, as I am sure your skill in dance, music and art would of help. Be subtle about the situation, as you need to be ready to protect anypony should things go awry." Cadence ordered softly.

The three mares look at each other before nodding.

"Understood, Princess!" Aquamarine replied.

"You can count on us." Amethyst nodded.

"We'll do what we can." Garnet responded.

The princess smiled and nods her head as the three mares head down to the street to the Faire.

"Silver?" Shining asked.

Silver was deep in thought before he hears his name, and turns to look at Shining.

"I know Twily is capable of carrying out her task the Princess gave her, but I can't help but worry for her should she manage to find the Crystal Heart. Whose to say Sombra wouldn't have made plans in the event if anypony found the Heart and attempted to take it to use it against him?" He asked, worried.

He made a good point. Even if Sombra hid the Heart well enough, a pony set on trying to turn against him with it could potentially find it, and the dark king would've come up with some sort of contingency plan in the event the Heart was found and he shudders at the thought of what he could have done.

"I get what you are asking, Shining. Seeing as we still have no clue where the Heart is at, and Sombra doesn't look to be the type to leave it to chance and could have ensured the Heart was protected by a trap of sorts, Twilight may not be aware of that should she find the Heart and attempt to take it..." Silver replied.

"If it will make you feel better, I'll watch her back. She may not want me to, but I'll just help her find it and ensure nothing bad happens. Given the time limit we have now, I know you and Cadence can only try to keep the barrier up for so long before it eventually comes down, and I don't have a lot of Ethers on hoof to keep you two going given how much time it takes for them to be concocted." He added.

The older brother just smiled softly.

"Just do what you can, and we'll do what we can."

With that, Silver starts trotting off, and heads down to the street to catch up with Twilight.





Just back where Sombra attempted to enter, he was still hissing over the pain of losing a part of his horn. However, when he looked inside, he noticed the piece that was cut off began to fizzle dark magic, and turned into a black crystal. He smirks as he starts chuckling silently.





As this was going on, knowing that about that Sombra is just outside the Empire, they need to ensure that none of the ponies at the Faire are suspicious of his whereabouts, and to keep the fake Crystal Heart from being seen by anyone. 

Applejack remains by the fake relic as it is still covered under the flag Dash put there earlier, trying to her best to remain subtle and keep ponies from seeing it. To her, the crystal ponies were as curious as a bunch of cats.

Rarity has to continue occupying the ponies who see her weave many things from straw but is running low on the stuff and eventually would need to improvise. 

Twilight continued walking through the Faire, trying to figure out where Sombra would've hidden the actual Crystal heart, while passing Dash trying to see who wants a flugelhorn, with Pinkie dressed as a jester screaming wanting a horn, with Dash ignoring her asking if anyone else wants one, with Pinkie screaming louder and annoyed wanting one.

Fluttershy was tending a small pen of ewes, little sheep that were found around the Empire, seeing the cute little creatures bring a smile to even a depressed crystal pony. However, that was interrupted when Dash suddenly appeared and pushes her away from the pen, as she had another idea, and it involved Fluttershy being a knight for it, much to her confusion and horror.

The Zodiac Guard were near a square, with Aquamarine showing off her dancing as well as manipulating of water around her, awing the ponies, while Amethyst sang a song that went along with Aquamarine's dancing further bringing the crowd in, and Garnet was showing of her rather artistic skill drawing a portrait of the guests that wished for one.

It was then the pupil of Celestia stopped for a moment to look back at the castle, before it dawned on her.

The castle!

She begins to make her way back, before Spike catches up to her, panting.

"Twilight, wait! I'm coming with you!" He breathed out.

Twilight shook her head.

"You can't Spike. I have to retrieve the Crystal Heart by myself." 

"I know. I won't lift a claw to help, I promise!" Spike pleaded.

Seeing that Spike wasn't going to take no for an answer, she relents and lifts him up onto her back with her magic with a sigh.

"Alright. Not a claw." She affirms.

Spike nods with a grin, as the two make their way back to the castle. As they did, they notice Silver galloping toward them.

"Silver, what are you doing here?" Twilight asked.

"Shining had some concerns, and thinking about it, he had a point in thinking something could happen if you manage to find the Heart. So, I'm coming along with you two." He explained.

Twilight sighed.

"It is nice that Shiny is worried for my safety, but it is my test that I have to complete."

"Either way, I'm sticking with you whether you want me to or not..." Silver smirked.

"...Sweet Celestia, you are so stubborn." Twilight replied, frowning.

"Okay, fine, but as I told Spike, not a hoof should we find the Heart."

Silver rolled his eyes and shrugs, as the three make their way back to the castle.





"Where are we going exactly?" Spike asked as he rode on Twilight's back.

"I think I might know where King Sombra hid the Crystal Heart." She replied.

They look up toward the castle.

"The castle?" Spike questioned.

Twilight nods her head.

"The king would've been counting on the fact that nopony would dare come looking for it here. They'd have been too afraid to even try." The mare theorized.

Spike looks to Twilight with a bit of worry in his eyes.

"I hope you're right..."

Twilight would also give a worried look.

"You and me both..." She replied, as they entered the castle.

While the three enter the castle, Dash and Applejack were doing what they can to keep the Crystal Ponies from going near the hidden fake Crystal Heart, with the former nearly startling them away. AJ would then tell her that she should likely keep the ponies away from the heart by showing off her jousting skills, which Dash with gusto gets the hint and flies off. She grabs Fluttershy, who was at first confused as to what Dash was doing dragging her away from her post, but then got horrified at what she had to do.

All and all, it was working, but the girls can likely sense that the Crystal Ponies were getting a bit more anxious and really wanted to see the Heart and was slowly starting to worry them more. They just hoped Twilight would hurry and find the real one.

Back inside, Twilight, Silver, and Spike searched through every room, every nook and cranny for the Heart. The mare was slowly getting more and more frustrated as the search was bearing no fruit. Eventually, they look around in the throne room to which Twilight realized something.

She looked at the top of the throne and noticed the crystal spire at the top. She then recalls what Celestia told her back in Canterlot.

"If the Empire is filled with hope and love, those things are reflected across all of Equestria. If hatred and fear take hold... She echoed.

Twilight remember watching Celestia used dark magic on the crystal that would slowly corrupt it and cause more dark clusters of crystal appear around Twilight. She smiled brightly.

"Of course!" She exclaimed.

Spike and Silver stop what they were doing, and turn to look at Twilight.

"What? Did you find it?" Spike asked, hoping it was good news.

"No. Because this isn't King Sombra's castle." She replied, leaving them confused.

"Huh? But isn't this where he lived when he was in power?" Spike asked.

The mare nods.

"It is. But it didn't look like this..." She replied.

She starts grunting as she began to channel dark magic, much like Celestia showed her, and shot of a dark beam of magic at the top of the throne. The throne became dark and corrupted in color as a large shadow spread across the floor before the throne, where a hidden staircase was revealed before the throne, that lead down.

Spike was amazed seeing that, as was Logan.

"Woah! When did you learn that?" Spike asked.

Twilight smirked.

"Just a little trick Celestia taught me." She replied, clapping her hooves giddily.

"Didn't think the Princess of the Sun was even capable of using dark magic... That is kind of a scary thought now." Silver joked.

Spike and Silver approach the staircase, the former looking down nervously. Twilight starts walking down the steps, with Spike following behind, however she used her magic to place him back where he was.

"You two stay here." She ordered.

Spike frowned, but nods.

"If you insist..."

"Just be careful, Twilight." Silver warned.

Twilight makes her way down the spiral staircase. It felt like a lot time passed as she still couldn't see the bottom of the place.

"Can you see what's down there yet?" Spike yelled from up top.

"Not yet! I can't even tell how far this goes!" She yelled back.

She thinks and sees a piece of crystal sticking out of the wall. She grabs it with her magic and hovers it over the edge and drops the piece down. She leans down to hear, but was surprised when she didn't hear anything yet. Rubbing her ear and trying to listen further, she looks shocked when finally it hit the bottom as it echoed up.

Just how far down do these stairs go? She looks back up.

"How is it looking outside?" She asked, yelling back up to the two.

Spike would run over and jump up to the window, and he grimaced as he saw the barrier was slowly starting to become weaker and see the dark smoke outside it slowly surround the Empire. Outside, Sombra notices this as well, as he controls the small crystal that sprout at the gate to slowly corrupt the gate and turn it dark as well, chuckling maliciously. It was only a matter of time now.

Spike relays this back to Twilight.

"It's not good! Cadence's magic must be fading faster than before!" He yelled.

Silver frowned. He didn't think it would've dragged on this long.

Twilight looks up in worry, not taking the news well. She begins making haste, but doesn't notice that one of the steps was cracked and worn, causing her to trip over it and began tumbling down all the way down. She winced at each hit she takes, but before she reached the bottom, she used her magic to stop herself and floated upside down. She readjusts herself by teleporting in place and lands on her hooves.

"Twilight! Are you okay?!" Spike yells, but it was nearly faded given how far down she was.

"Yeah..." She mumbles.

Twilight notices a door and smiled. This must've been it as she grabs the handle with her magic, only for the entire doorway to slide across the wall to the other side, confusing her. She tried again, but it just moved back over to where it was. She was getting agitated at this point, trying to reach the door, so much so she slams into the wall before she could reach it.

Angered, she began charging dark magic and fired it at the top of the door, which caused it to stop and open, revealing a bright white light within. She smiled brightly.

"Spike! Silver, I think it's here!" She yells out, as she gallops into the light.





When she stepped through, she was greeted by the most confusing sight. She found herself back in the throne room in Canterlot.

"Huh?" Twilight looked around confused.

She was then surprised by a sudden voice directed at her.

"What are you doing here?"

She looked and saw it was Princess Celestia, with her back turned facing Twilight as she was writing something on a scroll. Twilight just approached her, confused.

"I don't know! I stepped through the door and..."

"And now you must go." Celestia cuts her off, with a hint of anger in her voice.

Twilight was beginning to feel uneasy. Why was Celestia angry?

"Go where?" She asked.

"It doesn't matter to me..." She replied.

She then turns her head and glared at Twilight.

"You failed the test, Twilight!"

This just rocked Twilight to the core upon hearing her mentor tell her that. She failed? How?!

"I-I don't understand! How did I fail the test??" She asked frantically.

Celestia seemed to ignore the question as she continued.

"Not only will you not move on to the next level of your studies, you won't continue your studies at all!" She scolds.

Twilight began to tear up.

"I... You didn't say anything about no longer being your student if I failed!" She cried.

Celestia approached Twilight, looking as though she was going to give her a wing of comfort, only to be shoved away.

"Didn't I?" Celestia asked, as she begins walking off.

"But... what do I do now?" She asked herself, now scared.

She then looks up, and was shocked at what she saw. The stained glass window, depicting her defeat at the mercy of Sombra, whose laugh was echoing in the distance. The mare could only sob to herself now.

"Twilight...!" A muffled voice cried out.
"Twilight?" It was closer now.
"Twilight!" It sounded a bit more clear now.

In reality, Twilight was just staring at a wall that was behind the door, her eyes glowing green and red as tears streamed down her face.

"Twilight!!" Spike yelled.

"Bookie! You still with us?" Silver asked.

They rushed down the steps, upon seeing Twilight standing there motionless. Spike approaches her, calling for her again. This was enough to snap her back to reality, shaking her head and looking around in a daze.

"W-wha?" She muttered.

"Twilight!" Spike yelled, gaining her attention.

"I know you told us to stay up there, but you were down here for such a long time and you weren't answering and we got worried so we came down here and you were just staring at that wall and... I was calling your name, but I couldn't seem to get your attention, and–" Spike was cut off as he looked to the blank wall.

"What were you looking at? I mean... it's just a wall." 

Suddenly, his eyes began emitting the same green and red in a similar fashion to Twilight, falling under the door's hypnosis.

"...Ponyville! Well, how did I get... No! I don't wanna go! Please, Twilight, don't make me!" He cried.

After that, Twilight slammed the door shut, breaking the spell over Spike and snapping him back to reality. Tears were streaming down his face. Silver blinked and looked to Twilight for an explanation.

"King Sombra's dark magic. A doorway that leads to your worst fear." Twilight concluded.

"I see..." Silver muttered, frowning.

Spike approached her, looking at her with sadness.

"We were home. You told me you didn't need me anymore. You were sending me away..." He sobbed.

Twilight would then pull him into a tight embrace, nuzzling him softly.

"A fear that will never come to pass. I'm never gonna send you away." She said softly.

She looks back at the door, now determined.

"And I'm not gonna fail my test!"

Using her normal magic, she shot the top of the doorway again, this time the crystal at the top emitted a prism of colors as the door opens up once again. This time, the door revealed to be another room, all white and upon looking in it, Twilight sighed deeply.

"What's in there?" Spike asked.

"Stairs..." She grinned sheepishly.

"Lots and lots of stairs." She mumbled.

"I'm beginning to think Sombra has some sort of love for stairs..." Silver joked.

Sighing, she places Spike on her back.

"Maybe you guys should stick with me this time."

They now had to make a run up the stairs now. In Twilight's mind, this was getting ridiculous.





Meanwhile, Shining was doing everything he could to keep Cadence from passing out as her magic was nearly drained again as she was slowly closing her eyes to rest them. He looks back at in toward the castle.

"Come on Twily... you gotta hurry." Shining mumbled worriedly.

At the Faire, the girls were doing all they can to keep the ponies entertained as usually, but it was obvious that they are becoming desperate at this point, with more Crystal Ponies trying to see the Crystal Heart, with AJ trying her hardest to keep them from seeing it. Even the Zodiac Guard were beginning to sense the dark presence that was Sombra's influence slowly spreading, noticing one of the buildings become corrupted.

They continued to keep the Crystal Pony's attention on them, but now they were just worried more now.





Twilight, Silver Spike continued their trek up the stairs, feeling this was going on for too long. Spike cries in frustration.

"What if this is just more of his magic? He makes a door that leads to your worst nightmare. Why not a staircase that goes on forever?"

Thinking about it, Twilight started thinking of something, and it clicked. She smiled.

"Spike, hold onto me. Silver, watch your step."

"Huh? Why?" Spike asked.

With a burst of magic, she manipulates the gravity of the room so now they would appear on the ceiling above as it acted like a slide going down, when they were really sliding up. Spike just watches this in awe, while Twilight looks like she is having the time of her life now, seeing how Pinkie feels if she was here now.

Silver couldn't help but find this rather fun as he slides down behind the two, grinning.

"Nice thinking Twilight!" Silver yelled.





Outside, Crystal Ponies were beginning to see the changes happen with the buildings, knowing signs that Sombra was there and began running frantically toward the center of the castle to the Heart, beginning to crowd around Applejack. The situation was just getting worse now, as Pinkie Pie was trying to entertain several depressed Crystal Ponies, the beach ball she was balancing on shot off after she made a wrong step, sending the ball at the covered Crystal Heart, knocking it over and showing the crowd what it really was.

"This isn't the Crystal Heart..." Crystal Beau said sadly.

At this point, the jig was up. 

The friends huddled around together, trying to think of an excuse. However, that was cut short as the barrier was now beginning to disappear, as Cadence couldn't take it anymore and finally passed out. Shining could only hold her close with sadness, realizing time was up.

Sombra now makes his presence known, as several Crystal Ponies look up in fear and run away as the evil tyrant chuckles maliciously.

"I-it's him!" Sapphire Joy said in fear.

Sombra simply looks down around.

"Crystal Heart..." He said deeply.





Back inside, the three were still sliding up the staircase.

"Whoooooahahaha! I actually studied gravity spells, thinking it might be on my test! Turns out I was prepared for this! Wooo-hooo!" She cheered.

Eventually, they reached the top of the castle, and using her magic, reversed gravity back to normal and they landed on the floor with a thud. Getting up, Twilight looks around and there it was, she smiled brightly.

The Crystal Heart was floating there spinning, already glowing with the magic of the hope and love of the Crystal Ponies at the Faire.

"This is it! The Crystal Heart!"

Silver sees it, but realizes something was not right about this. He sees Twilight get closer, but immediately calls out.

"Wait Twi! Get away from it!"

Too late. As she approached the relic, an alarm of sorts goes off. This catches Sombra's attention, as he glares up at the top of the castle, using his magic made a wall of dark crystals surround Twilight and the Heart, which ended up getting separated from it's place and lands outside next to Spike and Silver.

Sombra can be heard laughing, as the streets below became chaotic, with ponies running away in fear. The rest of the group arrived with Shining and Cadance, looking down with worry.

Before Sombra can move foward, he is stopped by Garnet, Amethyst, and Aquamarine who stand their ground.

"Begone, you little pests..." He growled.

"You need to get past us first, you creep!" Garnet yelled.

"The citizens safety is our priority. We won't let you enslave them or cause them harm!" Amethyst added.

"As Princess Cadence's Zodiac Guard, we will do our duty to protect those from evil like you...!" Aquamarine also added.

The three of them got their respective magic ready. Sombra looks at this a bit amused and laughs.

"Then you shall perish for a lost cause..."





Silver looks down over the railing and saw the commotion that was stirring from down below. Twilight, surrounded inside the dark crystal pen she was in, looked around frantically.

"The Heart... Where's the Crystal–"

"Here! It rolled over to me when you dropped it!" Spike yelled.

He slowly backed away as more dark crystals began to grow across the balcony. Twilight notices this, and attempts to teleport out, but some dark magic forced her back into the dark crystal pen.

"Just hang on Twi, I'll get you out!" Silver said, trying to approach her, but is stopped by more dark crystal clusters.

He tries to swipe several of them with his blade, but more just kept growing in their place, and even bigger.

"Oh gimme a break!" Silver yelled in frustration.

"Don't move!" Twilight yelled to them.

"You can move, just not toward me!" She added.

She began pacing around in her pen.

"How could I have been so foolish? I was just so eager to get it! Then when I saw what was going on outside, I..."

She is cut off by Spike, as Silver tries to keep more of the crystals from spreading toward them.

"You have to get out of there, Twilight! You have to be the one who brings the Heart to Princess Cadance! If you don't, you'll fail Celestia's test!" Spike reminds her.

"And if we don't move, we will be sitting ducks." Silver added.

"King Sombra is already attacking the Empire. He could reach the Crystal Ponies at any moment... reach Princess Cadence, my brother, my friends. There may not be enough time for me to find a way to escape!" Twilight rebutted.

That is when she realized something, and looks back toward the two, as they were reaching the edge.

Twilight thinks about it, and looks to them with a determined glare.

"You have to be the one to bring the Crystal Heart to the Faire."

The stallion and drake look at Twilight with wide eyes, and confusion.

"What? But Twilight–"

Spike gets cut off by Twilight.

"Go!"
"But–"
"Goooo!" She yelled.

Spike winced, but finally nods as he picks up the Crystal Heart, and Silver places Spike on his back.

"Let's go Spike. It's up to us now." He said calmly.

With that, Silver looks over the edge, taking a moment to find a means of escape.

"...Got it." 

He silently chants something, as a calming aura surrounds himself, and began to feel weightless, and hovers over the ground a few inches.

"Hopefully Float does what I want it to do. Spike, hold on to me, and the Heart with dear life."

"Wait! Silver!" Spike yelped.

With that, Silver leaps over the edge and tries to climb down from the side of the castle as carefully, but swiftly, as possible, as more dark crystals begin to sprout out of the side of the castle now, slowly covering the balcony.





Below, the Crystal Ponies were fleeing in fear of Sombra, while the Zodiac Guard we're doing the best to keep the dark tyrant at bay, but not being able to do much against the dark smoke. The girls, Shining, and Cadence who was unconscious out of exhaustion, just watch everything not sure what to do now.

"I told you... it is a lost cause to stop me!" Sombra hissed.

The three guards pony regrouped, getting a bit tired now.

"We can't stop. Not until the end...!" Said Aquamarine.

"I know, but our magic is having little effect on him in his current form." Garnet replied.

"Where is that Silver Guardian when you need him...?" Amethyst asked.

Aquamarine's ears twitched upon hearing Silver's name. Surely if he was with them, they could have a better chance. But where was he now?

As this was going on, everyone looks up upon hearing a yell from above.

"Woah! Silver, warn me next time you leap from that far up!" Spike yelled.

"Sorry, little guy. Time is of the essence!" Silver replied.

"Hey, up here!" Spike yelled down to their friends.

"Spike? Silver?" Rarity asked.

"We got the Crystal Heart!"

Spike called down, holding the relic up.

Sombra sees this, and immediately focuses on the two higher up and goes for them, growling.

"That is mine!" Sombra screamed.

His form goes underground as more dark crystals begin to grow out of the ground in a rapid rate as he makes his way toward the castle.

The two see this as Silver furrows his brows.

"Spike, hang on!"

He start galloping down the spire as swiftly as he can. As he does, a piece of the floor he was on crumbles and causes Silver to stop all of the sudden, catching Spike off guard and flies off Silver's back and loses the Heart. This caused the girls below to gasp in horror.

"Spikey-Wikey!!!" Rarity shrieked.

"SPIKE, HANG ON!" Silver screamed as he leaped after him.

She then covers her eyes, not sure she can look, as AJ and Pinkie unable to look away. As this happens, Cadence opens her eyes seeing the radiance of the Crystal Heart. Her eyes begin to glimmer at the sight; a glimmer of hope. She then begins to unfurl her wings out, seemingly on instinct.

A large dark crystal spears out of the ground and grows with Sombra returning to form. The dark smoke that covered him dissipated as he looks to see he returned to his original form, and grins menacingly as his eyes set on Spike and the Heart, whom was trying to reach for it.

"Shiny..." Cadence said calmly to her husband.

He looks to her and seeing her wings unfurled, he gets the idea and standing on two, he picks up the princess and with all of his might, throws her into the air like a javelin. Cadence, determined, flies toward the center where Spike, the Heart, and Sombra are to meet.

Before Sombra can even blink, a pink blur flies past him, and sees Spike and the Heart gone.

"Huh? What??" He questioned as he looked around.

Cadence got a hold of the Heart with her magic, as Spike rides on her back, just watching in awe, as was the rest of the ponies below.

Sombra growls deeply, but is then taken by surprise by a swift kick in the chest. He forgot about Silver, who took the time to strike him back when he was distracted, sliding the dark king down his crystal spire.

He glares daggers at the other stallion.

"You..!"

"Time to skip the formalities, Sombra."

He takes his blade out.

"It's over for you!" Silver yelled as he charges toward him.

Sombra now just wanted to get back at the stallion for hitting him twice before with his Aerora spell.

"I will make you suffer, colt!"

Sombra would then conjure a large scythe made of dark crystal, similar to the one that Nightmare Moon used during their first meeting, and would proceed to block Silver's strike.

As this goes on, Cadence flies over the Crystal Ponies, who look up in awe, seeing her and the Crystal Heart's shine.

"Behold! The Crystal Princess!" Bright Shine declared.

Cadence lands down, smashing the fake Crystal Heart that was below her into pieces. She looks to the ponies.

"The Crystal Heart has returned. Use the light and love within you to ensure that King Sombra does not." She orders.

As the Crystal Heart is placed in its proper place, the ponies all begin to kneel down before Cadence and give their hope and love to power the Heart. The ground beneath the ponies glowed a bright cyan blue as it begins to channel to the Heart, where it begins to spin, gathering more energy, as more ponies begin to retain their crystal appearance. Sombra and Silver pause their bout, as the latter looks down in confusion, and anger.

"What? No... STOP!" Sombra ordered.

The magic gathers throughout the Empire, before it finally converges in the center and explodes into a bright light that expands out, destroying the dark crystals that covered the buildings, and adding a crystal shine to ponies that weren't already, including Cadence and Spike, Shining, the girls, and even Twilight who saw the dark crystals disappear and looked out with a smile, knowing they succeeded. 

The Zodiac Guard, who were witnessing Silver and Sombra's battle, also obtain their shine, much to their delight and felt their magic rejuvenated, and Silver, becoming as glossy and crystalline as the others, but the small gemstone on his broach glowed even more brighter as he felt his magical potential opening even further. Sombra, covers his eyes, as the light begins to take him, but notices blue cracks began to appear all over him. He then roars in pain as he finally explodes into pieces, being sent out of the Empire.

The surrounding force melts all the snow that surrounded the Empire outside and showed a lush green landscape. The castle then releases an aurora that explodes up into the sky and could be seen from miles.





It was already night further south from the Empire, in Ponyville, but the aurora could still be seen over the mountains, as in Canterlot, Princess Celestia and Luna were surprised by the bright flash outside the window and see the aurora. They both look at each other and smiled, crossing their horns together, knowing what it meant: the Crystal Empire was now free.





Cadence lands back onto the balcony with Spike hopping down, as he looks up to her with a grin. The girls just look at themselves, in awe at their crystal shine. Cadence looks down over the balcony at the citizens, who all look up to the Princess of Love, as she holds her hoof out, with the rest of the group coming over and looking out as well in amazement. Spike looks back up, worried about Twilight.

From above, Twilight just gave a tired smile before sighing and laying down over the edge looking down.

"Good job, Spike. Good job, Silver..." She said softly.

Silver, meanwhile, places his glowing blade back in its sheath as he looks at himself. His cape even looked more sleek, having embroidery that wasn't there before, and his mane even sporting a small ponytail. He digged it.





Several hours later...





With the Empire now free, the gang all make their way back to the train station to return to Canterlot, so Twilight can report in on her task. Since then, their coats and manes returned to normal much to Rarity's disappointment.

"I do so wish it was permanent. Did you see how my mane just absolutely sparkled?" Rarity asked.

AJ simply chuckled.

"But... good things are better when they're a rarity." She joked.

Rarity got the joke and giggled.

"Aww.~" 

"Everything's gonna be okay." Shiny said to Twilight.

The mare looked worried.

"You've gotta stop saving my rump like this. It's starting to get embarrassing." Shiny joked.

It did little to brighten Twilight's mood.

"Wasn't me who saved you in the end. It was Spike." She reminded.

"It's just a test. Maybe she'll let you retake it." Shiny said passively.

Cadence just gave Shiny a soft glare, knowing that wasn't helping.

Twilight simply sighs, leaving Shiny and Cadence frown as the mare walks forward.

"I don't think she's gonna give me a new test." She muttered sadly.

The group eventually make it to the train. As they were, Spike looked around.

"Uh, where's Silver?" Spike asked.

The girls looked around and realized he wasn't with them.

"He was right behind us wasn't he?" Rarity asked.

"Oh! He's over there!" Pinkie pointed.

They see Silver talking to Aquamarine, with the latter looking a bit timid.

"So um... I guess this is good-bye again." Silver chuckled sheepishly.

"Y-yeah. With all that went one, we uh... never really got a chance to talk and... get to know each other." Aquamarine replied just as sheepishly.

This was awkward.

"Well... seeing as you and your friends are basically going to be stationed here as Caddy and Shiny essentially become the new leaders of the Empire... you'll likely be a bit more busy trying to keep it safe from threats. Maybe if we happen to be in the area again... we could... I dunno, go someplace and... just talk?" Silver asked, rubbing the back of his head.

This made Aquamarine blush and fluster up a bit.

"Y-you mean like a date?"

"I mean... yeah? Would you want to?" The stallion asked, blushing a bit.

The mare just looks around, trying not to meet his gaze.

"Um... I-I wouldn't be opposed to it. I wouldn't mind getting to know you more..." She squeaked.

Silver just tried to hold back his laugh. That squeak was just adorable. Celestia, why was this so awkward for him?

"Well, until... next time then, eh?" Silver said, holding his hoof out to her.

She took a moment, before nods, holding his hoof for a bit, as the two looked at each other.

The tension is broken by the whistle of the train, snapping them out.

"Oh! Gotta get moving, look forward to seeing you again!" Silver yelled as he rushes to the train.

"Y-you too...!" Aquamarine replied just as loudly.

Silver boarded the train as it begins to depart the station. Shining and Cadence waved good-bye to the train, as Amethyst and Garnet approached Aquamarine looking out at the train.

Cadence then looks to her guard and just smiled sweetly, and giggled.

"Does my young guard appear to be smitten with that colt, hmm?~"

Aquamarine just hides her face behind her wings.

"P-Princess...!" She sputtered.

Her friends just laugh.

"Wow Aquamarine, didn't know you had it in you!" Garnet said, patting her friend's back.

"You must really like this colt to warrant wanting to go out with him." Amethyst giggled.

Aquamarine just hides her face, now red like a tomato.





On the train, Silver just looks to the girls, who all look at him with various expression, half of which was smug, surprise, and glee.

Silver said nothing, remaining cool and walks past the girls to one of the back seats. Facing out the window, he hides his blush as he tries to compose himself. He asked somepony out, and it was with a cute mare like her. If his mother was alive now and heard this, the amount of teasing she would be giving her son would be huge.





Canterlot - Palace
The following day...





The group waited outside in anticipation with Spike pacing back and forth in front of the door, trying to remain strong for Twilight. Silver was simply standing there, calm.

"Keep it together, buddy... Gotta stay strong... for Twilight..." Spike said to himself.

Inside, Celestia was looking out the window, seeing the aurora still emitting from the Empire from the day prior, with a very pleased look on her face.

"It's beautiful." Celestia said softly.

She looks toward her student, who was bowing her head down in sadness.

"I wish it had been me who ultimately made it so. But it wasn't." Twilight said sadly.

Celestia approaches her, as she looks to the new stained glass window, depicting Spike and Silver at the center of it, the former on the latter's back, with the Crystal Heart above them, shining brightly, with silhouettes of the Crystal Ponies all raising their hooves up to Cadence, who was at the very top of the window, with an bright smile on her face.

"Twilight, as I understand it, Spike and Silver brought Princess Cadence the Crystal Heart because you weren't sure how quickly you could find a way to escape the tower."

Twilight nods, but Celestia has Twilight look up at her.

"You weren't willing to risk the future of the citizens of the Crystal Empire in an effort to guarantee your own." She added, giving Twilight a sincere smile.

It did give Twilight a bit of hope and smiled back.

"Far better that I have a student who understands the meaning of self-sacrifice than one who only looks out for her own best interests." She finished.

Twilight understanding what she was talking about, looks up to her.

"Does this mean I...?" She asked.

With a grin, Celestia silent nods her head.





"She's totally gonna lose it!" Spike panted.

He was trying his best to stay strong but it was failing.

"Spike, relax. Believe in her. We both know she will pass." Silver said.

Before Spike could say a thing, the doors opens and slams Spike behind, with Twilight walking out. The rest of the group see her and rush to her. Silver gets Spike from behind the door and pulls him over.

"Twilight! Did you...?" Spike asked.

Twilight looks to the group, and smiled.

"I passed!" She cheered.

The others cheered as well, with Spike going over and hugging Twilight whom embraced him back.

"Awesome job, Bookie." Silver said patting her back.





You were prepared to do your best
Had what it takes to pass the test
All those doubts you can dismiss
Turns out you were

Prepared for this!

You clearly have just what it takes

To pass a test with such high stakes

We knew for sure you would prevail

Since when does Twilight Sparkle ever fail?

All those doubts that you can dismiss
Trust yourself and you cannot miss

Turns out you were

Turns out I was

Turns out you were

Turns out I was

Turns out you were

Prepared for this!






"Yeah, I knew everything was going to be fine." Spike finished, laughing nervously, before sighing in relief and flopping on Twilight's back, whom she grinned softly at.

They sang all the way through Canterlot and back to the train, as the sun begins to set. The train departs back to Ponyville, as Celestia and Luna watch from the palace balcony, smiling to one another. Luna brings out an old looking book, which Celestia nods. She knows her student would be ready for her next test, the time would come soon.





Outside the Crystal Empire
Some time later...





In a small clearing outside the Empire, a familiar looking horn rested on the ground. Slowly, it began to emit a dark aura as it slowly began to reconstitute itself from the horn. However, it didn't get far along as something approaches the horn and swiftly, a golden blade strikes the horn in a holy light, that caused the horn to disintegrate into nothing upon touching it.

Crimson stood, resting his hands on the pommel of the Enhancer as he looks out to the Empire with the aurora still radiating from the castle. He lowers his head down, before grinning softly under his face cover.

"Someday soon, my student. The winds of change are ever fleeting, and will soon blow your way..." He muttered.

He lifts his blade up, resting it in its scabbard and proceeds to walk off in the opposite direction, leaving the Empire to parts unknown.