Chapter 1: Founding the Bureau

The Canterlot Press: Equestria's Number One News Source

This morning at the monthly royal speech, Princess Celestia announced the formation of the "Bureau of Harmony". A new research and defense organization headed by the newly crowned Princess of Frienship, Twilight Sparkle. Based out of Princess Twilight's own castle in Ponyville, the Bureau is intended to focus on researching new or unexplained occurrences and providing an appropriate response based on their findings.

"While our main goal is to study such things," Princess Twilight stated in a brief question and answer session, "we will never forget our duty to protect Equestria and our people."

Princess Twilight went on to point out the possible technological and magical advancements that could be made from their research and discoveries. She also confirmed that her fellow Elements would indeed be involved as well.

"My friends have their own lives and responsibilities," the Princess elaborated. "But they will always be more than happy to aid us whenever needed."

Some in attendance expressed concern at the new organization's intentions. Others questioned the need for it at all considering the Princesses and the Elements having resolved all other extraordinary threats fine up until now. Princess Celestia, however, put down all complaints.

"Reacting to a threat and having a base of preparation for one are two very different things," the Sun Princess explained. "Imagine if we had been studying something like the changelings months before they invaded our beloved capital. So much of the violence may have been avoided. Perhaps the invasion itself could have been prevented."

Princess Celestia continued her impassioned speech, ending by reiterating the Bureau's overall goal to better protect and improve the lives of all Equestria's citizens. She also announced that the organization's first major goal would, in fact, be to improve pony/changeling relations.

The Princesses made a strong case for the founding of the Bureau of Harmony. Only time will tell if it will bear fruit, but this reporter is definitely hopeful for the future.

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If Twilight had to say when the idea for the Bureau of Harmony first started to take shape, she'd put it to right after Tirek's first attack. Twilight's method of dealing with upsetting or dangerous occurrences was to try and understand them. Discord, Chrysalis, the Tree of Harmony, Tirek; after each upheaval she would dig up every bit of information she could find and study it thoroughly.

But after Tirek, it wasn't enough. A running theme she found in her studies was that, for entities that were already known of, the actual information on them was maddeningly slim. Where were the diagrams? Where were the tests and experiments? How could people know of these things and not study them to the extreme? It annoyed her. If there had been more research, couldn't she have been better prepared? Couldn't she have reacted more effectively if she had a working knowledge of Tirek's abilities and limitations?

The answer was, of course, 'yes'. If there was one thing Twilight hated, it was being confronted by something that she was entirely ignorant of. And when it came to monumental threats to Equestria, that seemed to be what always happened.

With a fiery determination and the attitude of 'if you want it done right, do it yourself', Twilight spent the next two months laying out her ideas to address this problem. Writing, rewriting, studying, and writing a third time, she set the building blocks for her ultimate solution.

And yet, when she presented her proposal to Celestia, the Princess immediately mentioned something that Twilight hadn't even thought of, but knew that she should have. As Celestia always did. It was equal parts reassuring and annoying.

"An inspired and well thought out idea, Twilight," the Princess had smiled. "We should get everyone together and work it out."

In retrospect, of course she should have consulted the others. Celestia, Luna, Cadence, her friends... even Discord. They could all have provided excellent perspectives and additions. Still, better late than never. Celestia suggested holding the meeting in Twilight's castle as most of those attending were already in Ponyville. And sure enough, many points that Twilight hadn't considered were brought up and discussed.

It took three meetings to finally polish Twilight's concept into a working blueprint for her organization. Speaking of which, the last order of business was to actually name it. Twilight had already come up with a fine name, but the others insisted that 'The Bureau for the Reasearch, Preservation, and Defense of Extraordinary Phenomena and Entities' was too much of a mouthful. So she begrudgingly agreed to renaming it. Though she found the other suggestions to be completely inappropriate if not insultingly vague.

Rainbow Dash kept suggesting names she thought sounded cool. Rarity wouldn't stop trying to stick Twilight's name into it somewhere. Applejack and Fluttershy had no opinions. Pinkie suggested the 'Bureau of Understanding Tricky Things', but that was a ridiculous suggestion that Princess Celestia definitely did not giggle at, no matter how much Rainbow Dash insisted she did. Celestia was the one who finally suggested 'The Bureau of Harmony'. It was a bit generic, but Twilight agreed that it was acceptable. Pinkie kept using her name idea for the next two weeks, but either tired of the joke or simply forgot about it after awhile. Either way, the opening of the Bureau went about as smoothly as Twilight could have hoped for.

Building the facilities and recruiting members was set up before the public announcement and kicked into high gear immediately afterwards. The entire facility consisted of six main areas. Twilight's castle served as the main hub; a smaller lobby area had been added to the front that led into the castle proper. It's main area set up to be used for large scale meetings and public announcements. The different branches were built up around the castle. The Research and Development wing was by far the largest addition. Stocked full of the most cutting edge magical and technological equipment that bits could buy. The Strategic Defense and Response wing was next, it's observation and communication abilities second to none. Step into that wing and you had the whole of Equestria at your fingertips.

The Controlled Containment wing was to safety hold dangerous artifacts or entities. With everything from force-fields, magical nullifiers, dimensional shifters, to good old fashioned locks and bars. Twilight was confident that the Bureau could indefinitely contain any threat short of Discord himself. (And she was pretty sure they could hold him too, if they could get him in there and still while she interlocked and overlapped the necessary systems.) The Housing wing was just that. Living quarters where the Bureau's members could rest and relax. Last was the underground wing. Basically a streamlined amalgamation of the other wings which could be sealed off from the rest of the facility. It was a fallback shelter in case the Bureau was ever in direct danger. (The memory of the smoldering remains of the old library drove Twilight to make the bunker as secure and impenetrable as possible.)

It took some doing, but it all came together quite well. Twilight couldn't help the excitement that coursed through her during the construction.

Yet while she was confident that she could mold the architecture to her liking, she wasn't as sure about the staff. It was a tall order asking people to relocate to Ponyville on a nigh-permanent basis. And even though she was sure to make it clear that personal research could be continued at the facilities, she suspected that many of the scientific minds she sought to hire would be loath to dedicate about half their time to things besides their own pursuits. It turned out that she worried for nothing, though. Celestia's speech must have whipped up more fervor than she thought. Not only did she get everyone she thought she could get, they also got just about everyone she wanted to get and quite a few of the one's she was sure she'd never get.

The week that the full staff started settling in, Twilight barely ever left the Research wing. She was so wrapped up in it all, that ten days in she found herself literally kidnapped by Pinkie. Stuffed in a burlap sack, no less, and forced into a day long "relaxation celebration", as Pinkie called it. All her friends spending the day making sure she did no work at all. After which she was all but strapped into her bed and ordered to get a good night's sleep.

"Your brain is going to overheat, Twilight. And the FCC will never let me stuff enough asbestos in your ears to keep it from burning up!"

"I get it, Pinkie. I'll take it slower. Also... there are so many things wrong with that last sentence."

Things proceeded at a more reasonable pace after that. Roles were assigned, schedules worked out, and equipment fine-tuned. Soon the Bureau was ready to start on it's first major assignment. To improve the relationship between the pony and changeling nations, as Celestia had announced. This was set up as a two pronged operation. The first being to set up talks and in depth visits with Thorax and his hive. The overall goal being to further understand changeling biology and magic, leading to mutually beneficial trade of goods and knowledge. The second prong was more complicated since it involved Queen Chrysalis.

After losing control of the hive and the failure of her clones, Chrysalis had fled Equestria. Twilight discovered later that she had gone to the Barrens beyond the Everfree and found a small group of changelings still loyal to the old ways. By the time Twilight had discovered their location, Chrysalis had assumed leadership and managed to stabilize the small, floundering swarm. The Princess of Friendship had immediately set up surveillance on the hive, expecting Chrysalis to start hatching some scheme with the aid of her new followers. This time Twilight would be ready. She wouldn't be taken by surprise again. She would strike at Chrysalis as soon as the changeling Queen made her move.

But that move never came. Chrysalis continued working on improving her swarm's stability; reinforcing the hive's defenses, streamlining love collection and feeding, even compensating for their low reproduction rate by putting more resources into keeping the older drones healthy. In fact, her behavior only seemed to suggest that she had no plans for conquest and/or revenge at all. Twilight was still skeptical though and maintained her magical surveillance. However, now that she had the Bureau, she could finally act as well. The first step was to talk with Thorax. While Chrysalis seemed content to keep to herself, Twilight had no delusions about how she would react to any pony approaching her. No, if contact was to be made, it would have to be between changelings.

Thorax was understandably nervous, but shared Twilight's curiosity about the Queen's apparent self-imposed exile. So while the Bureau and his hive began working together, he began dispatching envoys to the Barrens hive. They approached under a white flag, leaving only a request for a meeting before departing again. Chrysalis didn't respond immediately. It wasn't until the fourth envoy that they received a reply. A meeting was agreed upon to take place on the border of the Everfree, limited to the two leaders and a pair of guards each. Twilight wasn't paranoid enough to try and spy on the group. But she did give Thorax and his two companions rune inscribed charms that could be used to teleport them away in case of a betrayal.

But again she was surprised when the meeting went quite smoothly. Chrysalis was none too polite, of course, but there was no assassination attempt, no ambush sprung, not even any real threats made. Chrysalis actually acknowledged Thorax's rule over the main hive and expressed her desire to simply rule her own hive in peace.

"She did make one request," Thorax said after relating their conversation to Twilight. The Princess raised an eyebrow.

"She wants another meeting," Thorax continued. "And she wants you there."

"She wants to see me?" Twilight asked, rather shocked. Thorax nodded.

"Her exact words were, 'I know you're friendly with Twilight Sparkle. I'd like to talk to both of you. Same place, three days from now'."

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It was a gamble, but one Twilight couldn't help but take. So three days later she stood with Thorax and watched as Chrysalis approached.

"Sparkle," Chrysalis greeted through clenched teeth. Obviously the Queen's desire for solitude didn't improve her opinion of the alicorn princess at all.

"Chrysalis," Twilight responded. "You wanted to see me?"

"I assume King Thorax has already informed you of our meeting, but I'll repeat myself for clarity."

"I... don't actually call myself 'King'," Thorax clarified a bit meekly. Chrysalis looked like she was about to spit back a reply, but stopped herself.

"That is between you and your hive," she said with forced calmness. "But as I was saying," she turned back to Twilight, "I have no designs on conquest or revenge. My swarm are still loyal to the old ways and I wish only to ensure their survival. I will take no hostile action against Equestria or any of it's citizens."

Twilight was silent for a bit, looking the changeling ruler over.

"While I'm glad to hear that," she finally answered, "I'm sure you can understand my skepticism. You've tried to conquer Equestria and attacked me and my friends on several occasions."

"And where did that get me?" Chrysalis shot back, her voice raising in frustration. "When I invaded Canterlot I was the ruler of the largest changeling hive in existence. After that failed, I lost many followers. When I kidnapped your group, I ended up losing my entire hive. When my clones failed, I was forced to flee to this barren wasteland!"

Chrysalis gestured to the rocky, cracked earth behind her before visibly deflating.

"I took my best shot, Sparkle, and I failed. I persisted and failed again. Every failure took more from me and I've lost enough. I.... I'm tired. Old and tired."

The terrible and merciless Queen Chrysalis sat down on a nearby boulder as if the weight of the world had been dropped on her shoulders. Twilight recognized that look. It was the same one Granny Smith had whenever her reminiscences turned melancholy. It was the same look the Elders of the buffaloes had when they spoke of the old wars between the tribes and the Equestrian settlers. It was the same look Celestia and Luna had whenever they were talking of days past and friends gone. And against all her own better judgement, Twilight found herself pitying Chrysalis.

"I'm done, Sparkle," the Queen finished. "You win. I just want to be left alone now."

Again Twilight studied the changeling before her. She looked so resigned, so... broken. Twilight didn't regret any of her actions. It had all been in self defense, after all. And Chrysalis could be lying.... but she didn't think so.

"Okay."

It was all Twilight said. It was all she could say. Chrysalis sighed, nodding as she rose to leave.

"Wait."

Thorax spoke up, halting the Queen's departure. Her expression hardened and she stood to her full height. As though she were anticipating an attack either verbal or physical from her rival ruler.

"Yes?"

Thorax stepped forward. He picked his words carefully and spoke slow and steady. Wanting to convey his honesty and sincerity as clearly as possible.

"You know that our hive is allied to the Equestrians. And I know that you have no desire to be in a similar alliance."

Chrysalis didn't answer, but cocked her head a bit, signaling him to continue.

"But perhaps we could arrange an alliance between changelings."

The changeling Queen shook her head and started to reply, but Thorax raised his hands in a plea for her patience.

"Please, hear me out. I have no desire to try and convert your hive to our ways. We are all changelings and I only wish for their continued survival, the same as you. Contact between our hives would be under your control and at your discretion. Any alliance between us would be completely separate from my hive's arrangements with the Equestrians."

Thorax leaned forward, looking Chrysalis in the eyes.

"You need resources for your hive's survival. Let me be one of those resources."

Chrysalis was silent as she stared back at Thorax. Twilight could practically see the gears turning in her head. The Queen's first instinct was to refuse. Accepting aid from the usurper of her throne? Preposterous.

He had a point though. The hive was stable, but it was still walking along the slippery slope of disaster. An alliance with Thorax's hive wouldn't only provide sorely needed resources. It could also guarantee one more shield against retaliation from the ponies. And she could count on Thorax to keep his word, being the hopeless, pathetic do-gooder that he was.

"I set the terms?"

"Within reason, of course," Thorax nodded.

"And they stay out of it?" She pointed at Twilight.

"Our dealings will be completely confidential," he answered.

Chrysalis took a last moment to look him up and down before finally extending her arm.

"Then I agree."

Thorax smiled, stepping forward to accept the offered hand. The two changeling rulers grasped each other's forearm, sealing the agreement.

"I will send a messenger to start negotiations soon," Chrysalis said, stepping back. Her wings snapped out, signaling the end of the meeting.

"Queen Chrysalis," Thorax nodded as a farewell, his pleased smile still in place.

"King Thorax," Chrysalis replied in what could almost be imagined as a playfully mocking tone. And then she was gone, the buzz of her wings fading away as she disappeared over the horizon.

Twilight smiled as she put a hand on Thorax's shoulder.

"I'm impressed, Thorax. I doubt that could have gone any better."

"I'm amazed she actually agreed," he replied, still looking off toward were Chrysalis had flown.

"She knew that the benefits outweighed her own feelings," Twilight said. "I guess she has changed a bit."

Thorax finally looked back toward Twilight, his expression suddenly nervous.

"Princess, I.... promised I wouldn't tell you about the arrangements of our alliance. I can't.... go back on that."

Twilight had a moment's shock before smiling and wrapping Thorax in a sudden hug.

"And I'd never ask you to," she reassured him. "Your alliance to Equestria doesn't give us any authority over you or your hive. We're friends. And I trust you to handle Chrysalis on your own. Just let us know if you need any help."

Thorax sighed in relief, returning Twilight's hug before stepping back.

"Thank you, Twilight. I think this is the beginning of something really important for all changelings."

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As it turned out, he couldn't have been more right. An alliance was made between the two hives. Thorax provided resources and acted as a go between with the ponies and other species. Chrysalis promised her hive's aid in event of any threat to her new allies. The Barrens hive prided itself on it's fierce and capable warriors.

The relationship between the two hives deepened as time went by, the two rulers actually going from reluctant allies to close friends. They eventually stopped using messengers and met face to face. Their talks of trade and diplomacy would often turn into simple conversations. The role of a leader is often a lonely one. Being able to confide in someone who understood their position was an immense relief to both Thorax and Chrysalis.

Twilight was true to her word and left Chrysalis to her changeling friend. Time passed and the Bureau pursued other matters. Fifteen years went by and she knew the alliance was going strong. But she was still shocked when Thorax came to her with a new development.

"Did I hear that right?" Twilight asked, dumbfounded.

Thorax nodded, looking quite shaken himself.

"Chrysalis wants to unite the hives."

"And she brought it up," Twilight stated for clarification.

"Yeah. I mean, I've thought about it, but couldn't bring myself to mention it," he said. "I was afraid she'd view it as me trying to take her swarm."

"But you're allied with Equestria." Twilight was sure Chrysalis' dislike of other species would've kept her in isolation.

"She's fine with it," Thorax shrugged. "Don't get me wrong, she still doesn't like you. But she trusts that you won't interfere with the hive and that's enough for her."

"What about her followers," Twilight continued. "Will they be going through the change your swarm did?"

"We'd leave that up to them," he replied. "Each changeling would decide for themselves and all would be treated equally."

Twilight considered this, leaning forward in her chair.

"You seem in favor of it," she observed. "And I appreciate you letting me know about it. But how would leadership work?"

"That's the thing," Thorax said, finally getting to the source of his nervousness. "She wants a bonding. Basically a marriage. We'd rule together."

Twilight could hardly believe it.

"She wants to marry you?"

"Our kind's version of marriage, yeah."

"She's quite a bit older than you, isn't she?"

"Technically, yes," Thorax replied. "But royals don't really age like regular changelings. As long as our hive is healthy, so are we."

"But you're still not sure?"

Thorax fidgeted.

"I... admit that I've come to respect her over the years," he said. "Now that her thirst for conquest has been turned toward helping her people, she's become a fiercely protective Queen. She's given me advice on being a monarch that has helped immensely. I wouldn't be averse to a bonding, it's just.... "

Thorax seemed at a loss for words, but Twilight noticed he kept glancing at her as though waiting for something. And suddenly she had an idea of what his problem was.

"Thorax," she said gently, but firmly. "I... we are your friends. You've proven your loyalty and trustworthiness time and time again. We would never abandon you so easily."

Thorax didn't reply, but the loosening of his shoulders told Twilight that she'd guessed correctly.

"Look at me, Thorax," she said, taking his hands in hers. "Don't think about us. Don't think about Equestria. Do you want to do this?"

Thorax stared back at her for awhile. Finally he squared his shoulders and gripped Twilight's hands.

"I do."

"Then you have our support," Twilight smiled.

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The 'wedding' of Thorax and Chrysalis was mainly an internal affair. Only for the newly united hive with the exception of Twilight, Spike, Starlight, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy. And while the attitude of Chrysalis and her changelings was decidedly frosty towards the ponies, it was nowhere near hostile. In fact, after the bonding ceremony, Twilight was shocked when Chrysalis actually approached her.

"Good day , Princess," the Queen greeted respectfully, if a bit tersely.

"Queen Chrysalis," Twilight managed to reply before lapsing into a 10 second fit of speechlessness. At least Chrysalis looked equally uncomfortable.

"You're.... speaking to me?" Twilight finally managed to stammer.

"My... our hive is allied with you," Chrysalis said, awkwardly. "I will have to get... acclimated to interacting with you on occasion. I figured now was as good a time as any."

"Oh, well, thank you," Twilight replied, managing to get her poise back. "It was a fascinating ceremony and I'm overjoyed for both you and Thorax."

Chrysalis gave a short, humorless laugh.

"My King is a soft, tenderhearted romantic," she said harshly. However, as her gaze drifted to Thorax, her expression and tone softened. "But he is a good King. I find myself wanting.... wishing I were more...."

Her words faltered and she seemed to suddenly remember who she was speaking to.

"Nothing," Chrysalis muttered, looking back toward Twilight. "Nice to see you, Princess. Enjoy the rest of the day."

And with that, she was off. Twilight was again left speechless. But as she recovered, she couldn't help the grin that came to her face.

"Never thought I'd see the day we'd be sharing a room with Chrysalis," Applejack said as she came up beside Twilight. "You think this thing has a chance of working."

She gestured toward where Thorax and Chrysalis stood next to each other.

"You know, I wasn't sure myself," Twilight answered, still grinning. "But now, I actually think it might."

And amazingly enough, it did. Thorax's Queen was never exactly friends with Twilight, but over time the two developed a mutual respect for each other. And while Chrysalis was always ready to accuse her 'husband' of being too soft, her devotion to him only deepened as they worked to rule their people.

The relations between changelings and ponies became closer than ever. The sight of the two species in each other's territory becoming a common sight. It was one of the first longterm goals that the Bureau was able to mark off as a success and Twilight knew it wouldn't be the last.

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Excerpt from Bureau of Harmony file #52: Changlelings

Changeling Bonding Ritual

The bonding ritual used by the changelings is broadly similar to Equestrian marriage ceremonies. The implications and consequences, however, can be far greater. While changeling drones do form relationships with each other, bonding is reserved for royalty. Between royals it is intended to ease acceptance of the new monarch and any followers they bring with them. Between a royal and a drone it allows the drone to metamorphose into a royal form.

While such pairings seem to have been extremely rare, they were not unheard of. Solid evidence of specific examples is impossible at present. Written history for changelings is nearly nonexistent. So almost all historical information is anecdotal.

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Chapter 2: Elementals of Harmony

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Most of those who knew her would not be surprised that Twilight Sparkle measured her life in relation to her friends. Oh she ignored none of her past. Even her years of isolation and study in Canterlot she viewed as worthwhile. But in terms of defining moments that shaped her and reminded her of who she wished to be, that was all centered around her friends.

Spike was first, of course. A constant and beloved prologue of things to come. Then she moved to Ponyville and everything kicked into high gear.

Twilight still remembered the strange mix of relief and trepidation that her first encounter with real friendship engendered.
Relief that she finally knew how wonderful it could be, but fear that it would suddenly vanish. After all, how much more cruel would her lot be if she experienced friendship only to have it snatched away.

Goodness sakes, was she awkward back then. Completely out of her depth and flying by the seat of her pants. Yet she wouldn't change a minute of it.

When Twilight ascended to alicorn status, she knew things would change. She knew people would treat her differently. She knew it would bring greater expectations and responsibilities. And she knew that she was now immortal.

She knew that academically, anyway. At the time they were all so young that she didn't give it much thought. There would be time for that later. And, naturally, it wasn't something she wanted to think much about anyway.

As time went on though, it became something she thought about with increasing frequency. The memories of her friends became so much more dear to her. Twilight remembered the first time they'd seen her "Princess" form. An alicorn's appearance could be affected by their magical aura. Her's eventually grew powerful enough as well and Celestia had taught her how to channel it into her physical form.

"It's not necessary," the solar monarch had explained. "But it can be useful. Luna and I first used it as a way of inspiring hope among the citizens during trying times. Eventually it just felt more natural than our original state."

Twilight wasn't sure she'd ever get to that point. It wasn't as strange now as it was initially, but it still felt slightly... off. Letting her magic dissipate and returning to her original form felt like slipping on an old, comfortable pair of shoes.

Her lessons with Celestia had made her comfortable with the process, but the reaction of others was still an issue. So she turned to her friends, as she often did. Twilight knew that they would be accepting and try to calm her fears.

Honestly though, she was still terrified. Her greatest worry wasn't what they'd say. It was that she'd catch a certain look in their eyes.

Fear.

Fear of her.

Twilight would rather her friends reject her than have them be afraid of her. Of course, deep down she knew this was highly unlikely. The other elements were perfectly comfortable around Celestia and Luna. There was no reason they would be any less comfortable with her.

But the mind doesn't always operate on logic. So Twilight chewed nervously on her bottom lip as her friends gathered in her private quarters.

"Sweet!" Rainbow Dash had exclaimed after Twilight had explained the situation. "C'mon then Egghead, let's see it."

Taking some comfort from Rainbow's familiar jibes, Twilight took a deep breath. Setting her glasses aside (she didn't need them in her other form) she let her magic wash through her. The familiar feeling of power flooded her senses as her hair became ethereal and her horn grew longer and sharper.

Twilight opened her eyes. She had to shift her line of sight a bit since she was at least a foot taller in this form. Unfortunately, the looks on her friends' faces sent her brain into a panic.

Later on, Twilight would chastise herself. Of course they would have looked shocked. It was only natural. At the time, however, it seemed to confirm her worst fears. She was sure that their friendship was ruined. They were afraid. They were uncomfortable. They'd treat her differently. Keep her at arm's length. Constantly walking on eggshells in her presence.

"Twilight."

Pinkie's voice brought Twilight's focus back to the room. The pink mare had come forward to stand right in front of her. Her eyes were wide as saucers and her hands covered her mouth.

This was even worse. Pinkie was the one Twilight would have been sure would treat her the same. But even she was struck speechless. Would she even invite Twilight to her parties anymore? Surely not. No parties, no sleepovers, no lazy afternoons doing silly little nonsense games that would...

"Snrk!"

Twilight's internal breakdown was brought to a screeching halt by Pinkie's sudden snort. Another followed almost immediately after and it took Twilight a second to realize that Pinkie was trying not to giggle.

"What..."

It was the only word Twilight could get out. She was at a loss for words. This was probably the last reaction that she would have imagined.

"Twilight," Pinkie repeated, lowering her hands to reveal the ear to ear grin on her face. "Your clothes are too small."

Pinkie finally lost control and broke into a fit of loud belly laughs. Twilight's mouth opened and closed a couple times like a fish gasping for air as she looked down at herself. All her transformations up till now had been in training with Celestia. And since training was a formal affair, Twilight had insisted on wearing her Bureau uniform. The uniform was spacious and designed to allow full range of movement while still looking professional.

The casual clothes she was wearing now, were not. The loose t-shirt was straining it's seams at her shoulders and only barely covered her bellybutton. The comfortable flannel pants now exposed her entire ankles which were in turn covered in a pair of Daring-Do socks. Quite simply, Twilight looked ridiculous.

And she couldn't have been happier. Breaking into her own fit of laughter, she swept Pinkie up in a hug. The two spun about in the middle of the room , ethereal hair and pink curls flying. The tension now thoroughly broken, the rest soon joined in. They spent the rest of the day in Twilight's room, talking and laughing until evening came.

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Twilight's first brush with the mortality of her friends came much sooner than expected. It all started about six years into the Bureau's operation. Tirek had made a return, attempting to absorb the magic of the planet itself rather than simply take it from the ponies.

The Bureau's response wasn't as smooth as Twilight would have hoped. They were taken by surprise when areas around Equestria began to wither. A mad scramble of research and study revealed these areas to be natural gathering points for magical energy. A bit like the Everfree, but less chaotic. It was at these magical nodes that Tirek was attempting to drain power from the very world.

Once they'd discovered the significance of the areas Tirek was assaulting, the Bureau redeemed itself with a swift and effective response. They'd predicted Tirek's next target and set a trap for the villain. Twilight had led the strike team consisting of her friends and ten of the Bureau's top field agents.

One of the first inventions that came out of the Research Wing was the Hostile Energy Protection suit. A lightly armored outfit that could provide a defense against some magical attacks. While not as effective as a force field against direct attack spells, they excelled at negating debilitating spells or cursed areas. Most importantly in this case, they protected the wearer from Tirek's magic absorbing abilities.

Lured in by Twilight's group, it was finally Tirek's turn to be taken by surprise. First by his inability to drain the attacking ponies' magic and second by the nullifiers that the Bureau team had set up earlier. What little energy the centaur had managed to absorb was soon spent in the battle. His plans foiled, Tirek had used his remaining power to escape.

"We've got the equipment packed up and ready for transport, your Majesty," one of the agents informed Twilight in the aftermath.

"Thank you, Cloud Whisper," she answered. "Please send a message back to HQ. I want the locations of all these nodes recorded and an immediate search started for others."

"Yes ma'am," the agent said, heading off to fulfill the orders.

"A new project for you, Twilight?" Rarity asked as she approached her friend.

Twilight nodded.

"These nodes connect directly to the primal forces of our planet. We've got to know more about them."

At the time, she thought that was the end of it. Tirek was defeated, the nodes would be studied, and their findings would be recorded. But she was wrong. So very wrong.

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The first clue that something was amiss came less than a year later. The Bureau had discovered five new nodes (nine in all) and set up monitoring equipment on all of them. The four nodes that had been assaulted by Tirek showed signs of damage. A sickly appearance to the surrounding area and erratic fluctuations in magical energy. Twilight had hoped that this was temporary, but as time went on there seemed to be no improvement.

It was around two years after Tirek's plan was foiled that things finally came to a head. Concluding that the magical energies of the planet had been knocked out of balance, Twilight and two of her top scientists were discussing ways of restoring it. The Tree of Harmony and the Elements seemed the best bet, but the 'how' was still an issue.

"Princess Twilight!"

The purple alicorn turned at the worried shout. Solar Whistle, a unicorn in the monitoring station, came dashing into Twilight's office.

"What's the matter, Solar?" Twilight asked, concerned.

"It's the nodes, your highness," the unicorn replied, breathless in her panic. "Their magical auras are spiking. We thought it was an equipment malfunction, but it wasn't. And by the time we'd checked, their frequency had doubled."

"Is it just the damaged nodes?" Twilight asked, a feeling of dread settling in her stomach.

"At the moment, yes," Solar answered. "But... there's evidence it might be spreading."

Twilight hadn't wasted time with any further questions. The three of them dashed toward the monitoring station. As they rounded a corner near the main entrance, they almost ran into Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy coming the other way.

"Twilight!" Rainbow exclaimed, partly in shock at the near collision and partly in worried panic. "Cloudsdale is putting out alerts everywhere. The weather's going nuts outside!"

"Come on!" Twilight didn't bother stopping, grabbing Rainbow Dash's wrist and dragging her along. "I think I know what it is."

When they got to the monitoring station, even more panic greeted them. The ponies stationed there were frantically taking notes and radioing in information as the instruments worked at a fever pitch. The readings from the damaged nodes were utter chaos and the remaining ones were beginning to show signs of fluctuation.

"These nodes are gathering points for the planet's magical energy," Twilight said, as much to herself as to the others. "Fluctuations this violent must be causing reactions in the surrounding area."

"That one there," Fluttershy's voice, usually so quiet, rose above the din. "Near the northern border of the Everfree. A flock of birds came from that direction. They were terrified. They said all the animals were running."

"It's one of the epicenters of the storms, too," Rainbow added. "Cloudsdale marked four main origin points for all this."

"Four points. Four nodes." Twilight could see exactly what was happening. "Contact Canterlot, the Griffon Kingdom, the changelings, anyone whose anywhere near one of the nodes. Tell them to evacuate the area immediately and to take shelter."

The ponies at the communication hubs sprang to work immediately.

"How do we stop this, Twilight?" Rainbow Dash asked as she stepped up beside her friend. Twilight could only stare at the monitors.

"I'm not sure."

For one dreadful moment, none of them said a word. And then Solar Whistle spoke up again.

"Princess," she called. Her voice was tinged with confusion as she listened to something in her headphones. "There's... there's something else."

Twilight walked over to her quickly. Solar unplugged the headphones and turned up the volume on the monitor she sat at.

"I thought it was just background noise at first, but it keeps repeating itself. Like some kind of distress signal."

Twilight, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy listened intently to the sound. It was almost like speech, but also like singing. There were also parts that sounded like animals. Yet nothing was recognizable to her.

"It sounds..." Fluttershy spoke up hesitantly. "It sounds almost like how the animals talk."

"Can you understand any of it?" Rainbow asked.

"Not words," the yellow pegasus answered, her brow creased in concentration. "More like feelings. It's..... inviting us. Inviting, urgent.... danger. I think it's asking for help."

"It's not much, but it's the best we have," Twilight said with determination. "Solar, is this coming from a specific node?"

"No, your highness," the unicorn replied. "It's coming from all of them."

"Good. Then we can go to one of the calmer ones, right?" Rainbow Dash piped up.

"Not on foot," Twilight said. "The nearest undamaged node is on the border of griffon territory. Even flying it would take over an hour. And with the way these storms are expanding, I don't think we'd be in time."

"Could you teleport some of us?" Fluttershy asked.

"Out of the question," Solar answered immediately. "The storms are as much magical as they are physical. Trying to teleport a group such a distance could be disastrous."

"We'll have to head for the nearest one," Twilight said, turning to a map display of the surrounding area. "The one Fluttershy mentioned, on the border of the Everfree. I'll send word to the others to meet us there. And to Celestia. If we fail, maybe she could get to another node herself."

"I just hope we can get through that storm," Rainbow shook her head. "It's crazy enough around here. I can't imagine what the epicenter will be like."

Twilight would have preferred picking up some equipment from the supply room. She would have rather waited for the rest of her friends and set off together. She certainly would have liked to talk to Celestia and get her advice on the situation. Unfortunately, none of that was possible. If they wanted to stop this before Ponyville (and who knew where else) was swallowed up by the storm, they had to act now.

The three of them rushed outside and took off toward the node. Flying was quicker, but they had to stay low to avoid being tossed about by the high winds. Twilight could see the looming black clouds on the horizon creeping steadily closer. With a silent prayer that her friends would be quick, she flew toward the storm's center.

The node was located inside an underground cavern that could be accessed from a nearby cave. Twilight, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash were forced to land and continue on foot once the wind became too much. Lightening flashed in the clouds above as they trudged toward the cave. The wind whipped around them so violently that they had to shield their eyes and focus almost solely on walking. Just so their legs weren't swept out from under them.

"The cave should be just ahead," Twilight shouted over the wind.

Rainbow Dash, who was slightly ahead of the other two, suddenly stopped walking. Taking Twilight by the arm, she pointed toward where they were heading.

"If that's it over there, we've got another problem," she said, leaning towards Twilight to be heard.

Twilight looked to where Rainbow was pointing. She could barely make out the cavern entrance, but it was in the middle of a massive column of swirling wind. It was like a large, stationary tornado and it was completely cutting them off.

Fluttershy got the other two's attention and pointed towards a nearby rock formation that jutted out of the ground. The three friends hurried over, taking shelter from the wind.

"Now what?" Rainbow Dash asked, frustration evident in her voice.

"I don't know," Twilight admitted. "Getting through that thing isn't going to be easy. The wind and debris is bad enough, but the energy swirling around inside takes it to a whole other level."

"You said teleporting is out," Fluttershy said. "Would a force field work?"

"In theory," Twilight answered. "But the energy is still the problem. That's not just some offensive spell; that's the primal force of the planet in there. If my force field gave out while we were inside, we wouldn't last a second."

"It might be half magic, but it's still a storm," Rainbow Dash said. "What about a counter force? The Weather Team's used it a couple times to break up tornadoes. If I could dive in from above the cloud layer, I could come in with enough momentum to set off a rainboom in the opposite direction to the rotation."

"It would dispel the storm, but the release of energy..." Twilight shook her head. "Rainbow, you'd be vaporized as soon as the cyclone broke."

Rainbow Dash fell silent. Twilight continued muttering to herself, going over alternate ideas and possibilities. For a few moments Rainbow's gaze drifted from her two friends to the storm and back again.

"Twilight," the pegasus said hesitantly. "I'm going to circle back. See if the others are almost here."

"Huh?" Twilight glanced up. "Oh, right. Good idea."

She immediately lapsed back into deep thought as Rainbow Dash ran back the way they'd come. She continued to run until she was clear of the worst ring of storm clouds. Then, taking a few deep breaths, she launched herself into the air.

The wind whipped at her wings, growing more violent the higher she got. Flying toward the storm had been impossible, but by angling slightly away from the epicenter, she could actually use the air currents to help her spiral upward.

Going through the cloud layer was nothing short of terrifying. Icy rain stung at her face and lightening flashed in the nearby darkness. Gritting her teeth, Rainbow Dash pushed her ascent ever higher. At last she broke through the clouds, taking a moment to catch her breath. Even up here, she could clearly see where the main cyclone was. She'd dive in at a steep angle to build her momentum and then level out to...

"Rainbow!"

Startled, the pegasus glanced back just in time to see Fluttershy break free of the clouds. Her ascent hadn't been as well executed as Rainbow's, but she managed to struggle through.

"Flutters?" Rainbow Dash said, torn between anger that Fluttershy had followed her and pride that her timid friend had actually succeeded. "What are you doing here?"

"You're going to try and dispel the storm, aren't you?"

Rainbow Dash looked away.

"Aren't you , Rainbow?" Fluttershy flew up next to her fellow pegasus.

"You heard Twilight," Rainbow replied. "If we try to get through the cyclone and something goes wrong, we'll all die. If I do it this way, it WILL work."

"And only you'll die?" Fluttershy asked. Rainbow nodded.

"If it means my friends'll be safe, then I..."

She trailed off.

Rainbow Dash couldn't put it into words. She was never good with words. But she knew Fluttershy would understand. Fluttershy always understood her.

"Alright, Rainbow," the other pegasus said, taking her friend's hand. "And I'll help you. It'll be easier with two flyers anyway."

"No," Rainbow almost choked. "Fluttershy, no! I don't want you to..."

She was suddenly silenced by Fluttershy pulling her into a kiss.

For a brief moment the sounds of the storm died away and all Rainbow Dash could focus on was the feeling of the other pegasus pressed up against her. When Fluttershy eventually pulled away, Rainbow could only stare back at her as the pink haired girl cupped Rainbow's face in her hands.

"I understand, Rainbow," Fluttershy said to her, quietly. "Do you?"

Rainbow Dash stared into those soft, kind eyes. They'd known each other for so long. Successes, failures, parties, dangers, hope's, dreams , and nightmares. They'd shared them all and always came out stronger than before. Closer than before.

Fluttershy had always pushed herself when it came to her athletic friend. She'd come to Rainbow's competitions even though she hated crowds. She'd cheered for her even though she hated drawing attention to herself. She made sure to stay knowledgeable on flight technique even though she hated heights. The blue pegasus had never dared consider what that might mean, always afraid it wouldn't be what she thought. Now though, looking into those eyes, she finally had her answer.

Rainbow Dash smiled, taking Fluttershy's hands in hers.

"I understand."

Rainbow pulled her friend in for one more short kiss before steeling her nerve.

"Ready?"

Fluttershy nodded.

"Build up as much speed as you can on the descent," Rainbow instructed her. "Follow me closely. You can use my slipstream to keep up with me. You remember how to do that?"

Again, Fluttershy nodded.

"Okay." Rainbow took one more deep breath. "Let's go."

They flew upward a short distance before circling around and plunging back down into the clouds.

====================================

Twilight was on her fifth plan when she heard someone shouting her name over the storm. Looking up toward the noise, she saw Pinkie, Rarity, and Applejack hurrying toward her small bit of shelter.

"Twilight," Applejack exclaimed, crouching behind the rocks next to her friend. "What the hey is goin' on?"

"The planet's magical energy is out of balance," Twilight answered. "There may be a way to stop it inside the cave, but we can't get past the cyclone."

She paused as she looked over the others. A realization finally forced it's way through her furious thought processes.

"Where's Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy?"

"Weren't they with you?" Rarity asked

"They were," Twilight nodded. "Rainbow said she was going back to meet you. I assumed Fluttershy went with her."

"We didn't see them on the way here," Pinkie said with a shrug.

"Maybe we better go back and search. If something happened we may not..."

"Twilight!"

Applejack's shout cut her off. Looking to where the farmer was pointing, Twilight saw two small figures diving out of the clouds towards the cyclone.

====================================

Fluttershy never had any real affection towards flying. She was scared of heights and fast speeds, she didn't work for the Weather Team, and she had no desire to visit any pegasus city like Cloudsdale. And yet, she probably knew more about flight technique than most other pegasi.

This was, of course, because of Rainbow Dash. Her friend spent most of her time talking about flying and Fluttershy had heard most of it at least twice. She even helped Rainbow practice whenever the blue daredevil needed another pegasus to try out a new routine or trick.

So it wasn't the first time they'd done the slipstream technique. It really wasn't difficult; the only thing that had held her back before had been the speed. But now there was no holding back. Following Rainbow's slipstream was nearly as easy as following the current of a river. Her friend's speed cut through the winds like a knife, with Fluttershy trailing in her wake. The yellow pegasus clamped down on the terrified tremor in her gut and pushed for all the speed she could.

As they neared the midpoint of the cyclone, Rainbow Dash leveled off. She kept herself as straight as possible to reduce wind resistance and maintain their momentum. Already she could feel that tingling in her wings. The familiar feeling that told her she was close to breaking the sound barrier and triggering the rainbow hued explosion she was known for.

The two of them were circling the cyclone so fast, that Rainbow Dash caught up to her own multi-colored flight trail. A little ways behind, Fluttershy could feel the air shift. The cyclone's rotation began to fall apart as flashes of light lit up the inside. She knew this was it. With a strength she never would have believed she possessed, Fluttershy pushed herself forward the few feet that separated her and Rainbow.

Rainbow Dash glanced back when she felt a hand grab hers. The feeling of pride and relief she felt when she realized that Fluttershy had actually managed to catch up to her was overwhelming. With a strong pull, Rainbow pulled her timid friend up beside her. Hand in hand, the two friends finally reached the breaking point. The sonic rainboom exploded around the cyclone a split second before searing white light erupted from inside the pillar of deadly winds. The small group on the ground was thrown off their feet and only avoided injury thanks to a quick forcefield from Twilight. In Ponyville, the shockwave shattered nearly every window in town.

The explosion lasted for just a few seconds before the light faded and all was still.

====================================

Twilight felt like she should have reacted more when she realized what was going on. Like maybe she should have jumped up and rushed forward in a vain attempt to stop her two friends. Perhaps being held back by Applejack or Rarity.

But that wasn't how Twilight's brain worked. Even in a state of panic, it would never let her behave in such an illogical manner. There was no way to stop Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. Even if she could have gotten close enough, trying to grab them with magic at that speed would have been nearly impossible. And even if she managed it, all it would likely accomplish would be to throw the two off and send them plowing into the ground or hurtling into the cyclone.

So Twilight could do nothing but sit and watch in silent horror at what she knew was coming.

When she felt the shockwave hit, Twilight immediately threw up a barrier around them that kept any injuries to superficial bruises. The giant cyclone was gone, leaving a clear path to the cave entrance.

"We... we should search the area first," Rarity choked out. "Maybe we could find them. Maybe they..."

"Rarity," Twilight interrupted softly, laying a hand on the unicorn's shoulder. "They were at the heart of that explosion. There... won't be anything to find."

Rarity stumbled back as tears ran down her face. Applejack caught her from behind, pulling the smaller pony against her sturdy frame. It was only then that Rarity broke down into sobs of despair.

Pinkie didn't make a sound, though her face was just as wet with tears as Rarity's. Walking up beside Twilight, the pink party planner simply gave her a small, supportive hug around her middle. Twilight brought one arm around Pinkie's back and leaned her head into her friend's curls. The familiar smell of baked goods and frosting helping to ease her aching heart.

"We've got to keep going," she said after a moment. Giving Pinkie one last squeeze, she stood up straight. "The magical energy is already starting to build again. Rainbow and Fluttershy gave us our chance. Let's use it."

The others nodded, pulling themselves together before following Twilight into the cave entrance.

=====================================

The caverns that held the node extended deep underground. It took the small group nearly twenty minutes to work their way down to the bottom level. Twilight could feel the echoes of magic from outside and was certain that a new cyclone was already forming. But what intrigued her more was what she felt from inside.

She'd sensed it almost as soon as they'd entered and it only grew stronger as they descended. A massive magical presence from deep in the caverns. Bigger than anything she'd ever sensed before.

"Do you hear that?" Pinkie asked, pausing as they reached the bottom level.

And they did hear it. That same singing almost-voice Twilight had heard back at the Bureau. It had been faint and tinny sounding over the speakers. Now it echoed off the cavern walls. Twilight was more certain than ever that whatever was down here held the answers to stopping all this. Urging the others forward, she led the way through the last stretch before entering the chamber that housed the node.

Twilight had seen most of the nodes they'd discovered. This one she'd seen multiple times, given it's close proximity to Ponyville. They were all impressive in their own rights, the energy from the nodes affecting the surrounding flora and fauna. Plants around the nodes were bigger, thicker, and more colorful than usual. Animals that lived or nested nearby appeared to be healthier and even showed signs of slightly increased cognitive functions.

Twilight had always been impressed by the nodes, but when she entered the chamber this time, she was quite literally awestruck.

The plants practically glowed with energy while a large group of animals huddled together on the floor. Prey and predator alike, presumably having taken shelter from the storm outside.

But it was what they were huddled around that really took Twilight's breath away. It stood in the middle of the chamber, it's features obscured by the bright light that it produced. It had a vague, bipedal shape that was around nine feet tall. Twilight got the impression of long hair and robes. (Maybe robes? Maybe leaves or fur?)

Two blue orbs glowed where the eyes would be, watching them enter. They all had the impression that this thing had been waiting for them. And indeed, it almost immediately held a long arm out in their direction.

"Child..."

The voice seemed to come from everywhere. It was the first time it had spoken an actual word. The entity actually seemed to be having trouble speaking. Words would fade in and out of song and animal noises.

"Alicorn........ can not.... language....."

The creature had singled Twilight out and the purple alicorn was quick to step forward.

"Please," Twilight pleaded. "Can you help us fix the nodes? Can we stop the destruction?"

"Stop...," the thing seemed to nod. "Magic..... no... balance. I..... no... balance."

"What can I do?" Twilight asked desperately.

"Child..... lend... your balance."

The glowing entity held out both hands toward Twilight. The alicorn still was unsure about what was going on, but it was clear what this creature was asking.

"Careful, Twilight," Pinkie called as Twilight stepped forward. Her voice shook slightly in fear for her friend. Twilight gave her a reassuring smile before turning back. She stepped carefully around the huddled animals until she was standing before the entity. Reaching out, Twilight took the offered hands.

To the other three ponies, Twilight suddenly went rigid as her eyes turned into pools of bright light. To Twilight, it was as if the whole world came alive. She could feel the roots of trees above them moving through the earth. She could feel the animals laying on the ground as if it were her own skin. She could practically see the LIFE that her friends seemed to be surrounded by.

"Thank you, child. I have slept for so long and the Magic was so broken, I could not form the correct sounds."

Twilight could feel the presence that spoke to her within her mind. While she sensed no malice, it was still slightly alarming. Her own thoughts and feelings were so interwoven with the entity that it was difficult to determine where it ended and she began.

"Be calm, Twilight," it said to her, soothing thoughts flooding her mind. "I only want to help. The imbalance must be corrected and together we can correct it."

But who or what was this creature, Twilight wondered.

"I am you," the presence answered. "I am them." Twilight saw images of the animals and plants in the cave. "I am the ground on which you walk and the air that you breathe."

Memories of old folktales and superstitions ran through Twilight's mind. An earth spirit. A personification of the planet. The Buffalo tribes told stories of Athabaskan, the goddess of nature. Ancient griffon ruins held references to Terra, the spirit of the earth. The yaks had festivals that originated as ceremonies to Jörð. Even Equestria's own history had the similar legend of Gaea.

"I have been called all these and more," the entity said with what felt like a smile. "Any of them will do."

Twilight figured their own legend was appropriate enough, but what she really wanted to know was how to stop the storms.

"The Magic's balance must be restored," Gaea answered. "You and your friends have been touched by Harmony. With your help, I can repair the damage."

Harmony. Twilight knew she must mean the Tree and the elements. But the elements weren't all here. Rainbow and Fluttershy had....

Twilight's thoughts suddenly dipped back into despair when she was reminded of the fate of her two friends. The presence that shared her mind wrapped around her like a warm embrace.

"I am so sorry, Twilight," Gaea said softly. "I could feel them when they challenged the epicenter. They were so brave."

The purple alicorn could feel tears running down her face as memories of Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy played through her mind. Gaea's presence stayed wrapped snugly around her, experiencing the memories with her.

"This shouldn't have happened," Gaea whispered, sounding heartbroken yet determined. "So many hurt. Some dead. I never should have allowed myself to diminish."

Yes, it had said it had been sleeping. But Twilight couldn't help but wonder why.

"You had all grown so much. Become so clever," Gaea replied as images of the different civilizations of Equestria played out before Twilight. "I thought you would be better off on your own. I was afraid my influence might hold you back."

The griffons expanded their territory and turned toward diplomacy. The ponies united the clans and built wondrous cities. Time and progress marched by before Twilight's inner eye.

"But I was wrong. I could have been silent, but present. I could have given you space without leaving you defenseless."

Twilight felt Gaea's feelings of determination come to a peak.

"Twilight, there is a balance to nature that must be maintained. I cannot simply ignore that balance. But.... I can bend the rules sometimes."

The purple alicorn felt her body turn to her friends, but when she opened her mouth, it was Gaea who spoke.

"My dear children," the nature spirit said, addressing the other ponies. "What has happened today should never have been allowed. I feel responsible for the pain you've had to endure getting here, but I must ask for your help."

Twilight was aware of her body stepping forward and reaching its hands out toward her friends. They understandably looked nervous, but Twilight knew they were feeling the same things she was. It was a natural feeling of trust toward the strange entity. Like an old friend or trusted elder.

Pinkie was the first to take a tentative step forward.

"Twilight? Can you... still hear me?"

Twilight felt Gaea's presence shift aside, as though making room for her.

"I can hear you, Pinkie." Her eyes were still glowing white, but it was her voice. "Don't be afraid. I think we can really fix all this."

Hearing her friend's voice seemed to give Pinkie new resolve.

"If you say it's okay, Twilight, then that's good enough for me."

She bravely walked forward and took one of Twilight's outstretched hands.

"Aw shoot," Applejack said, standing to her full height. "Not like we got a whole lotta other options."

A few long strides brought her across the room where she took Twilight's other hand.

"Coming, sugarcube?"

The farmer turned back, holding her free hand out to Rarity. Pinkie copied her, giving the unicorn a reassuring smile.

"Well," Rarity answered, clearly trying to regain her composure. "How could I resist such an... interesting proposal."

She walked a little slower than the other two, but gripped AJ and Pinkie's hands without hesitation. Gaea moved back into the forefront of their shared consciousness, smiling at the other ponies.

"Thank you, children," it said, squeezing the others' hands gratefully. "Now, please brace yourselves. This is going to be... a lot."

The four friends only had a split second to wonder what that meant before something like an electric pulse ran through the ring of their conjoined hands. The other three ponies went rigid as their eyes burst into light, just as Twilight's had.

The four of them were suddenly bombarded by sights, sounds, smells, tastes, feelings.... everything. A planet's worth of information pounded against their brains like a hail storm. Only the protective aura of Gaea kept them from simply collapsing from overload.

"Stay strong, my children," it encouraged them. "The Magic of the world has changed form. The damage done to the sacred groves has twisted it into knots. I am not familiar enough with this new Magic to undo the knots, but you are. You are part of the Magic. Through you I can understand it's form and release the knots."

The mental storm continued to push down on them as Gaea reached out into it. The entity could feel the Harmony within the four children and it latched on. The Harmony was old magic, older than almost anything else. It suffused every cell of the four ponies. Through it, Gaea could See them. And through them, Gaea could See the Magic.

"Yes," it's voice had a breathless joy to it. "I understand it now. Hold on, children. We are almost there."

Twilight and the others felt Gaea reach out across the planet. The waves of energy flowed around the entity's presence, reacting to it's movements. Slowly the pounding lessened. It was still overwhelming, but less chaotic. No longer an icy hurricane; now more of a steady summer downpour.

The earth spirit continued manipulating the planet's energies until it was satisfied. It's presence decreased, focusing back down to the group of four friends. But it did not yet release them.

"The balance is restored," Gaea said, sounding relieved. "But the damage remains. I cannot fix it all, but I can try and make sure it never happens again."

The circle of ponies felt the presence wrap around them warmly.

"I cannot rule you. I WILL not. But I must be present. To advise, to warn, and even to retaliate, if necessary."

"So what will you do?" Twilight managed to ask. She was exhausted, both physically and mentally. Even the relatively short time they'd spent connected to the planet's essence felt like she'd been stomped on by an ursa major.

"I will make advocates," Gaea answered, sending waves of soothing energy to help revitalize the four friends. "Those who will speak for me and for you. I will create a bridge between the planet and it's children."

Gaea turned to each of them in sympathy.

"And, perhaps, ease your own pain at the same time. Please lend me your help one more time."

Once again, the small group felt energy flow through their linked hands. This time however, it focused inward. It settled in their chests and flared brightly. Suddenly, wispy strands of light flickered into view before their eyes. They waved about gently, like luminescent spiderwebs blowing in the wind. The brightest ones seemed to run between the four of them while other strands faded off into the distance. They each had a good number connected to them, though Pinkie was practically cocooned by the things.

What really caught their attention though was the two glowing things in the center of their circle. They had no definite form, appearing like small balls of glowing mist, each connected to the brightest strands from each of the ponies.

"Love forms connections," Gaea said, it's form leaning over the small group to gently grasp the tiny, glowing clouds. "These connections can transcend time, space, and even death."

Twilight's breath hitched at that last word. She stared up at the strange manifestations now held in the earth spirit's hands. Gaea began to pulse with light and energy, the clumps of mist reacting and growing brighter in turn. The four ponies were suddenly released from their connection. Their eyes returned to normal and all but Applejack stumbled and had to stop themselves from falling over. Once they'd steadied themselves though, their attention immediately turned back to Gaea.

Twilight shielded her eyes as the light from the two shapes increased. And they were taking on actual shapes now. At first it just seemed to be tiny spheres within the mist. But as they grew, more details began to show. Creases, bumps, and curves emerged as the light continued to grow. Just before it got too bright to look at, Twilight suddenly recognized the shapes. It was two figures, curled up in the fetal position as they grew. Finally it was too much and the four friends had to turn away to keep from being blinded.

The room was engulfed in white light and an explosion of energy washed over them. Twilight and Applejack managed to keep on their feet. Pinkie was knocked to her knees and Rarity would have followed her if AJ hadn't managed to catch her by the arm. The rising energy had reached it's crescendo and in the next instant it was gone. The cavern was suddenly silent and dark except for Gaea's soft glow.

It was by that glow that Twilight saw them. Two forms slowly pulling themselves up from the cavern floor, as if rising from a long rest. As her eyes adjusted to the dim light, Twilight's heart skipped a beat. She could see wings, a hint of blue, long hair that fell in a familiar way....

Unable to take the suspense any longer, the alicorn cast her own illumination spell, bathing the area in light. And indeed, there before her, naked but alive, were Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.

The two of them looked disoriented as they got to their feet, Rainbow instinctually reaching over to steady her fellow pegasus. They both knew that their friends were behind them and they ached to turn and run over to the group. But they couldn't manage to turn away from the glowing figure before them. Gaea held their full attention.

"Rainbow Dash. Fluttershy." The earth spirit addressed them kindly, but firmly. The importance of it's words clear to all. "By your selfless act, you allowed your friends to reach me and prevent the mass destruction that threatened our world."

Gaea laid a hand on each of their heads.

"You have spent your lives showing loyalty and kindness. I can think of noone more worthy to act as my avatars. Will you accept this responsibility? Will you act as the bridge between the planet and it's children? Will you defend the balance of nature and punish those who would break it?"

The hands left their heads and were held out before them, waiting for their acceptance. Neither of them hesitated in taking the offered hand.

"We will," Rainbow agreed while Fluttershy gave a confirming nod and smile.

"Then let it be so," Gaea said. "From this day forth, you are my right and left hands. Your word is mine. You carry my authority and my power."

With those words, Gaea's energy swelled again. The other four ponies saw Rainbow and Fluttershy start to glow from within. It got bright enough that Twilight could see the silhouettes of the bones within the skin. Suddenly the smell of ozone permeated the cavern while a static charge crackled through the air. Rainbow stumbled back as arcs of electricity burst from her form. She seemed overwhelmed for a moment before finding her footing and straightening up.

Fluttershy wasn't quite as dramatic, but was no less spectacular. Twilight hadn't noticed at first, but the shy pegasus' usually pale pink hair was slightly green when she reappeared. It was also less like strands of hair and more like wispy, thin vines. Now those vines burst into color as tiny pink flowers blossomed along their lengths. Patches of green moss sprang up along her shoulders and trailed down the center of her back. Small roots framed her face, disappearing into her hairline before re-emerging as antler-like twigs that swept back from the top of her head.

"Rainbow Dash. You are the sky. The healing of the rains, the swiftness of the winds, and the fury of the storm."

Gaea addressed the first transformed pegasus before turning to the other.

"Fluttershy. You are the land. The lush plants of the forest, the harsh sands of the deserts, and every animal that crawls, walks, or flies upon it."

The earth spirit then turned it's attention back to the four friends still standing in shock a few feet away.

"I thank you once more, children," Gaea said, a note of finality in it's voice. "For helping to save our world and giving me this chance to make up for my mistakes. The future of this world is yours, but I will be here to help protect that future. I cannot wait to see what you will accomplish."

So saying, the glowing form of Gaea faded away. For a few moments, none of the group spoke. As if afraid to break some spell that lay over the cavern. Then a sudden, piercing squeal made them all jump in surprise. The exclamation came from Pinkie (of course) who launched herself across the chamber at the nearest one of her resurrected friends.

Rainbow Dash saw the pink missile heading straight for her. Electricity still crackled across the blue pegasus' skin.

"Pinkie, wait!"

The warning was in vain. The hyperactive baker collided with Rainbow and sent the two falling to the ground. The sudden impact caused the lingering charge to build, flair, and discharge right into....

*POOF*

Pinkie's mass of pink curls were instantly zapped into a fuzzy pink afro that looked for all the world like it was trying to absorb the party-planner's head. Rainbow and Pinkie looked at each other for a beat before simultaneously bursting into gales of laughter.

The rest of the group quickly joined them. Laughing, crying, and oh so relieved that everything had worked out.

Twilight didn't say as much as the others. There would be time for words later. Heck, she was already planning a series of tests to determine the exact nature of her two friends' transformations. But for now, she simply hugged the two of them and held on as tight as she could.

They'd come so close to losing them. So unbelievably close. It was no less than a miracle that they hadn't. And Twilight couldn't help but wonder who the next one would be. And what she would do if they weren't so lucky then.

=================================

Excerpt from Bureau of Harmony file #48: Elementals

Elementals can come in different varieties. A natural elemental is usually an animated entity composed of one or more of said elements. A created elemental generally has a golem base form and is infused with elemental magic.

Addendum: Another type of elemental is a being directly empowered by the planet's own magic. Only two such examples have ever been recorded. [See file #327]

Excerpt from Bureau of Harmony file #327: Study of Elemental Transformations

Subjects Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy appear to have no negative affects from their supposed deaths. Brain scans and psychological exams show no major variations in their mental state, apart from an actual increase in cognitive functions.

Their physical bodies are generally the same, but with some modifications.

Rainbow Dash was discovered to have traces of silver laced through her tissue and bones. This is presumably to aid in the conduction of the lightening she generates. This appears to be her main method of offense, though she also possesses the ability to manipulate weather patterns as well.

Fluttershy's body is a truly amazing amalgamation of flora and fauna. The plant-like growths are more than just decoration. They are actually connected to her cardiovascular system and aid in bodily functions. Musculature and skeletal system are partly composed of tightly packed plant fibers. Her previous talent to communicate with animals remains, but seems stronger than ever, now effecting plant life. Experiments have even shown her able to influence Timber Wolves.

Both subjects have confirmed that they also have alternative options for sustenance as well. Rainbow Dash can absorb electricity and even seems to be able to convert wind resistance into energy. Fluttershy can sustain herself with photosynthesis, the same as a plant would.

There is also the extrasensory perception that allows the two subjects to communicate with Gaea [see file #325] and predict and pinpoint natural disasters or areas in need of restoration.

While Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy still show just as much attachment to their friends as ever, they also display an equal loyalty to their new roles as caretakers to nature. While this shouldn't be a problem, the potential for conflict from differing priorities should be noted.

Chapter 3: All Things Change

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It was no surprise that Rarity was the first to catch on to Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy's new relationship. It wasn't that the others didn't notice the two hugging more often or standing closer than was usual. It was just that, well, they were ALL being a bit more touchy-feely at the time; using physical contact as a reassurance that they were all still there, safe and sound.

Of course they were all very happy for the two, but Twilight couldn't help but wonder at their reactions. If presented with this scenario before and asked how her two friends would have reacted, Twilight would have guessed a mixture of forced casualness and embarrassment. Rainbow Dash would have tried to seem unconcerned to maintain her image. Fluttershy would have been reduced to stuttering mumbles as she tried to hide behind Rainbow.

At least, that would have been her educated guess. She didn't expect for them to simply acknowledge the fact and accept the congratulations of their friends with nothing but unrestrained happiness. It wasn't an unwelcome surprise, just a strange one from Twilight's perspective.

"I can hear your brain ticking."

Twilight started at the amused voice in her ear. Turning her head brought her face to face with Pinkie's knowing grin.

"Sorry," Twilight replied with a soft chuckle. "I was a bit lost in thought."

"Well, with thoughts like yours, it's probably easy to get lost in them."

Twilight was used to the others teasing her about her tendency to over analyze things. It was all in good fun and she couldn't deny the truth in it. But Pinkie always seemed to make it sound like a compliment.

"So, what's gotcha all thinky this time?" The pink party planner leaned against Twilight's back, draping an arm over one shoulder and resting her chin on the other.

Twilight allowed herself to tilt back a bit into her friend's hold. Despite being so erratic and hyper, Pinkie had always felt so.... sturdy? Safe? Twilight could never quite describe it.

"Oh, Rainbow and Fluttershy," the alicorn princess answered. "They seem so comfortable with everything."

"You mean the dying thing? Or that now they're all..." Pinke trailed off in favor of making exaggerated kissing noises.

Twilight couldn't help breaking into a fit of giggles, eventually slapping at Pinkie's hand to get her to stop.

"Both, actually," she replied after catching her breath. "I mean, I just wouldn't have predicted the old Rainbow and Fluttershy to be so collected."

"Yeah, but they're not, are they?" Pinkie said, thoughtfully. "Not the old Rainbow and Flutters, I mean."

Twilight nodded in understanding. That thought HAD occurred to her.

"You mean because of their connection to Gaea."

"Sure," Pinkie nodded back. "Gee willikers, I know what it felt like only being connected for a few minutes. Can't imagine what having that as a permanent part of your brain must feel like."

"Makes sense," Twilight agreed. "I'd love to ask them about it."

"Oh, well why didn't you say so? Leave it to me."

Twilight turned to look at her friend, only to find Pinkie already skipping away from her. The alicorn's stomach dropped into her boots. She watched in silent horror as Pinkie walked right up to Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy and started talking to them.

Surely she wouldn't be so blunt as to straight up tell the two what Twilight had been saying. Pinkie could be a bit impulsive, but she was also surprisingly perceptive at times.

Rainbow shared a laugh with Pinkie before turning and heading toward Twilight.

No, Twilight was worrying over nothing. Pinkie would know to approach the topic delicately. The party planner could be subtle if needed. Twilight was positive she hadn't just waltzed over and blurted everything out.

"So, egghead," Rainbow grinned as she walked up. "Pinkie says you think we're acting weird?"

Pinkie had just waltzed over and blurted everything out.

Twilight could feel the blood drain from her face. Her eyes met Pinkie's over Rainbow Dash's shoulder. The party planner gave her a wide smile and two thumbs up before turning back to Fluttershy.

Betrayed and abandoned, the princess of friendship fell into a fit of flustered stammering as she tried to explain, distract, and apologize all at the same time. Rainbow Dash let her friend flounder for a minute or two before finally showing mercy.

"Twilight, it's fine. I get it," the pegasus laughed, patting the other's shoulder. "I know we're acting a bit differently. I FEEL different. And from what Pinkie said, you already understand why. You just need to ask some questions to settle your mind. So ask away."

The purple alicorn took a minute to settle her nerves and give thanks to whatever had led her to such amazing friends. After which, she took a deep breath and dove right in.

Their conversation went for the rest of the night and meandered about Twilight's office. She started off by asking Rainbow if she remembered anything between the explosion of the cyclone and her resurrection in the node. The pegasus said that she was sure there was something, but she couldn't say what.

"It's kinda like when you know you had a dream last night, but can't remember what it was about."

They moved on to their transformations, even getting in some light experimentation with Rainbow's new powers. As the gathering started to break up and the others headed home, they were joined by Fluttershy who chimed in with her own answers as well.

Twilight was having the time of her life, fascinated by Rainbow and Fluttershy's perspectives on such a new and unique situation. Still, she could feel fatigue nipping at her heels and blurring the edges of her vision.

"Finally talked yourself out, brainiac?" Rainbow teased when a massive yawn cut the princess off mid-sentence.

"I suppose it is rather late," Twilight conceded, glancing at the grandfather clock in the corner. "One more question?"

Rainbow and Fluttershy nodded.

"Rainbow, you mentioned that you feel different. And both of you have alluded to how your priorities have changed. Do you feel like that's natural or forced?"

"You mean, do we think it's because of our new responsibilities or a direct altering of our personalities?" Fluttershy asked.

"Exactly," Twilight nodded. "For example, Rainbow. Your desire to become a professional flyer with the Wonderbolts seems further away now than ever before. Does that bother you? Do you resent it?"

Rainbow took a moment to consider the question.

"I definitely don't resent it," she answered. "It's still an appealing idea, but I can't say it's a serious consideration. I mean, it's like when you get older. When I was little, I loved collecting Cloudsdale Racing cards. I bought pack after pack until I had the complete lineup of all the pro flyers."

"You had half a bookshelf full of card binders," Fluttershy giggled.

"Yeah, it was super important to me," Rainbow smiled. "And I still have a few of my favorite ones and have bought one or two recently that I was interested in. But it's taken a backseat to things I find more important now."

"So, it's like you've grown out of it?" Twilight clarified.

"Sort of," Rainbow nodded. "I mean, I've got to meet the Wonderbolts and even flew with them a couple times. But that's just not where I am anymore. To be honest, I kinda felt that way even before all this. Being a part of the Elements and working in the Bureau; I'd already decided that this was where I belong."

This actually caused Twilight to tear up and pull her friend into a hug.

"Thank you, Rainbow."

"For sticking with the Bureau?" Rainbow Dash chuckled, returning Twilight's embrace.

"For staying with the Bureau, for answering my questions, for being so understanding, for... just being you," the alicorn answered, her voice rough with emotion.

"Always, Twilight," Rainbow said, taking Fluttershy's hand and pulling her into the hug. "Always."

The three friends held each other until their emotions cooled. The two pegasi said their goodbyes, leaving the alicorn to collapse into bed. She was more exhausted than she ever remembered feeling, but she fell asleep with a smile. Her mind had been set at ease. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were still themselves. There had been a shift in priorities, a change of perspective, but it was still them in every way that mattered. And that was enough for Twilight.

==========================================================================

Changes in perspective became a theme for Twilight and her friends in their adult lives. Though they were slower and more subtle than what happened with Dash and Fluttershy. Celestia had explained it thusly, when Twilight brought up the subject.

"It's in the nature of living things to adapt to their surroundings," the Sun Princess had said. "Ponies who spend their lives in rural areas naturally become more knowledgeable of the land and nature. City ponies know the ends and outs of the different societies and where their borders are."

"A pony's environment affects their nature and perspective," Celestia continued. "You and your friends have been knee-deep in the strange and unusual for nearly two decades now. It's hardly surprising that such an environment would have an effect on you all."

It had sounded a bit ominous, but Twilight knew firsthand that not all such consequences were upsetting. One of her more cherished memories was the day that Rarity had asked her to tea. This wasn't out of the ordinary in itself. But on this occasion the white unicorn had asked Twilight to also invite her sister-in-law. Ending the invitation with the weighty statement; "There's something I'd like to get both of your thoughts on".

So, on a sunny afternoon, Twilight and Cadence arrived at the Carousel Boutique and sat down to tea with its proprietor. Everything had begun ordinarily enough, with Rarity making small talk in that easy, calming way of hers. As it went on, though, Twilight began to notice that it was a bit more strained than usual. Her friend clearly had something on her mind.

"I would like to thank you both for coming," Rarity finally said with a sigh, setting aside her cup and saucer. "And I would like to apologize. I've been beating around the bush, as it were. I have been having some... unexpected experiences for the past few months that I need to get some outside advice on. I asked you to come, Twilight, because I'd like your rational viewpoint on the matter. And Princess Cadence, I asked you because you are the closest thing I think there is to what might be called an 'expert' on... love."

This shocked Twilight a bit. Rarity had never been in a long-term relationship. But she also never had any difficulty in expressing her attraction to any stallion that happened to catch her eye.

"Rarity, are you... in love?"

The fashionista tutted at the slight smirk on the purple alicorn's face.

"No need to be childish, darling. I requested your company because I was sure you would take the matter seriously."

Twilight schooled her expression and apologized. Promising to give Rarity any help she could provide.

"Of course, we will both help in any way we can," Cadence added. "But IS that what you want advice on? Are you in love?"

"I... believe so," Rarity answered after a slight pause.

"That is usually something to be celebrated," the Princess of the Chrystal Kingdom replied. "But it seems you are uneasy about the idea."

"Not uneasy," Rarity said, fidgeting with the sugar bowl. "Unsure? Certainly surprised. You see, these feelings... it is not for someone I would have expected. And I find it could lead to a delicate situation. I need to know how real this is or if I'm misinterpreting something."

"So, you want our advice on whether your feelings for this stallion are real?" Twilight asked. Her unicorn friend was silent, looking around the room to avoid eye contact. An idea suddenly popped into Twilight's head which made everything fall into place.

"Or is it... NOT a stallion."

Rarity looked sheepishly at the purple alicorn, letting Twilight know that she'd hit the nail on the head.

"You know I've never been uncomfortable with that, Twilight," Rarity said. And indeed, it was true. The unicorn seamstress was currently on a one-mare campaign to have Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy let her organize a wedding for them. She'd put high profile orders on the back burner to help Lyra make a dress as a gift to Bon Bon for their anniversary. Rarity had always been love's number one fan, whatever form it took.

"But up until now, all my romantic feelings have been engendered by males. I just don't want to...."

Rarity trailed off, a catch in her throat making Twilight worried her friend was on the verge of tears. But the white unicorn kept her composure. Though she did slump forward, resting her elbows on the table and leaning her forehead against her clasped hands. Both alicorns could see how worried their friend was.

"Twilight, I'm scared," Rarity said softly after a moment's silence. "Her friendship means so much to me. If I were to mess that up without even knowing..."

Again she trailed off, at a loss for words. Twilight reached over, taking her friend's clasped hands in her own. The seamstress looked up at the contact, but almost immediately smiled and grasped the offered hands in return.

"Don't worry Rarity," the purple alicorn said reassuringly. "We'll figure this out."

"Indeed we will," Cadence added, laying her own hand on Rarity's shoulder. "But first, can you tell us who it is you think you're in love with?"

The fashionista nodded, taking a couple deep breaths before continuing.

"I imagine Twilight already has some idea," Rarity said with a sigh. "But to be clear... it's Applejack."

If asked, Twilight would have to admit that she wasn't too surprised. Rarity and Applejack had always been close and had only grown more so over the years. The two seemed to share a love of poking at each other with snarky comments. So much so, that when Twilight was first getting to know her new friends, she was afraid that the farmer and seamstress actually didn't like each other very much.

However, once she'd gotten past the surface, she saw that it was a form of affection for them. Partly a way to deal with their opposing lifestyles. Partly a way of challenging each other. And partly because they both simply enjoyed it.

"I suppose if it were anyone, it would have to be her," the purple alicorn chuckled. "And I can understand you wanting to be sure your feelings are genuine before acting on them. That is, if you DO plan to act on them."

"If they are real, then I would be open to it," Rarity replied, turning to Cadence. "That's why I asked Twilight to invite you, Princess. I was hoping you could tell me."

"I can't tell you how you feel, Rarity," the princess of love answered. "But I can help you find that answer yourself. Take my hands and tell me about Applejack. What you think of her, how she makes you feel, anything that comes into your mind when you focus on her."

Rarity nodded and followed Cadence's instructions. She talked about first meeting Applejack. How she was both annoyed by the farmer's dismissal of her fashionable lifestyle and impressed by her strength of character and tireless work ethic. She described all the times that Applejack had come to her aid. Offering moral support, additional labor, or a sympathetic ear. She smiled as she remembered all the times AJ had made her laugh and lifted her spirits. Even knocking her back down to earth when her own dramatic nature got the better of her.

"I've thought so highly of her for as long as I've known her," the unicorn said as she wound down. "But this past year or so, it seems to have changed. I didn't even notice at first, but soon all my thoughts of her were taking on a romantic nature."

Cadence nodded, giving Rarity's hands a squeeze before releasing them.

"Well, I sensed no confusion in your thoughts," she said. "I can at least tell you that your admiration isn't coming from anywhere other than an honest place. So, I guess the final question is now yours to answer. Are you in love with Applejack?"

Rarity paused for a moment to consider. She'd gone over and over it in her mind so many times that everything had seemed so muddled. Now though, after talking honestly about Applejack and her feelings toward her, she found only one solution.

"I am," she breathed out at last. She immediately felt lighter and less troubled. There was ONE thing still nagging at her though.

"But why now," Rarity asked the two alicorns. "I've been close to Applejack for years. Why would I only be attracted to her now? Why have I never found another mare attractive before this?"

Rarity's desperation had subsided. Her acceptance of her feelings had calmed her down. Her questions where now pure curiosity rather than confused nervousness.

"Actually, I think I can answer that," Twilight said. She folded her hands in front of her as her expression fell into what Rainbow Dash called her 'Lecture Face'. "I believe it is because of the Elements of Harmony."

"The Elements made me fall in love with Applejack?" Rarity sounded skeptical.

"No," the purple alicorn answered immediately. "They didn't make you, but they may have allowed you to. You said your admiration of Applejack was always there. It was only the romantic aspect that changed."

Rarity nodded.

"As mortal beings, our perception of the world is limited," Twilight began. "More simply, our knowledge of the world is limited without outside interference. A unicorn can't describe exactly what it's like to feel magical auras to a pegasus. A pegasus can't describe exactly how they manipulate weather patterns to a unicorn. An earth pony can't describe how they know the best spot to plant crops or the perfect place to split a boulder."

"I think I understand," Rarity nodded. "Our perceptions are dictated by our biological limits."

"Yes," Twilight nodded. "I knew academically how pegasus and earth pony magic worked. But it wasn't until I became an alicorn that I could truly understand it. And I think the Elements have had a similar effect on us."

Rarity nodded again. She still didn't quite get it, but she knew her friend was building to something.

"When we became the Elements of Harmony, we opened ourselves up to the magic of the elements. Over the years we've become suffused by it. It's how Gaea was able to use us to fix the planetary imbalance. The magic is now as much a part of us as our own skin."

"And that magic has broadened our perceptions," Rarity stated. She was starting to see where Twilight was going with this.

"Exactly," the princess of friendship continued. "Slowly, though. So slowly that you probably wouldn't have noticed if you weren't looking for it. But Harmony is about seeing through the surface. Finding the truth within; and through that truth, to find balance."

"But why would it only become apparent in relation to Applejack?" Rarity asked. "Shouldn't I have noticed something else as well."

"Not necessarily," Twilight shook her head. "Remember, Harmony magic is all about balance. A subtle increase in perception would feel so natural, that I doubt you'd be aware of it unless it affected something major. Like your feelings for AJ. I think I can prove it to you, if you'd like."

Rarity nodded.

"Okay," the purple alicorn said, sitting up straighter. "What do you see when you look at me?"

"Umm... an alicorn," the seamstress answered hesitantly. "My friend? A royal of Equestria? I'm not sure what answer you're looking for."

"Now, close your eyes," Twilight instructed, ignoring Rarity's confusion. "And then tell me what you see."

Rarity followed her friend's instructions but was clearly baffled.

"I don't see anything, Twilight," the unicorn answered almost immediately.

Twilight chuckled and shook her head.

"No, Rarity. Concentrate. Reach out with your magic. Focus it on me."

The fashionista sighed but did as she was told. Her brow furrowed as she focused her magic outward.

"I see..."

Her head tilted in concentration as something began to drift into her consciousness. It was a bit like becoming aware of a smell that you hadn't noticed until someone called your attention to it. Or one of those pictures that you had to stare at a certain way before you saw the image hidden within.

"I see... you."

Rarity's eyes snapped open. Her voice was filled with a dumbfounded wonder as she stared at her friend.

"I see YOU, Twilight."

It was like she was focusing past the purple alicorn in front of her. Instead seeing all the hopes, dreams, and feelings that made Twilight, Twilight. It was one of the most breathtaking sights she'd ever witnessed.

"You're... beautiful." Rarity's hands seemed to move on their own, reaching up to cup her friends face. Twilight smiled in understanding, knowing just what her friend was seeing for the first time.

"And are you attracted to me?" the alicorn asked.

Rarity was knocked out of her awestruck state by the sudden question. She blinked a few times and looked at Twilight again for a moment before retracting her hands.

"No," she answered. "I always thought you were beautiful, Twilight. And even more now than before. But not like that, no."

"And that's what I meant," Twilight smiled. "The Elements didn't MAKE you fall in love with AJ. They just opened up the possibility."

Rarity nodded. She did get it now. Her questions surrounding her feelings for Applejack had been addressed. Now she felt only anticipation for what the future might hold.

"Have any of the others noticed this?" Rarity asked.

"None of them have talked to ME about it," Twilight answered. "But I can't say I'm surprised. Applejack has always been one to go with the flow, so I doubt she'd have questioned it enough to notice any changes. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash have had a much more sudden and jarring shift in perspective with their transformation into elementals. So anything else probably didn't seem worth mentioning. And Pinkie is... well... "

"Pinkie is Pinkie," Rarity finished for her with a grin.

The three of them laughed, their spirits high in the aftermath of the heavy topic they'd just worked through. The conversation lapsed back into lighter topics. It wrapped up with Rarity excitedly showing the two alicorns her design sketches for a new line of formal wear focusing on asymmetrical stitching. After which, the guests expressed thanks for the tea while the hostess walked them to the door.

"So," Twilight added, pausing at the door. "How do you think you'll approach AJ?"

Rarity sighed.

"How else would I approach someone like Applejack? I believe the term is 'take the bull by the horns'."

"I suppose the direct approach would be the best," Twilight agreed.

"Well," Rarity scoffed. "Any attempt on my part for some grand display would most likely only draw her particular brand of amused scorn. Dull, unromantic lump that she is."

Twilight grinned at her friend's feigned indignation. The fondness underlying the jibes was plainly detectable to anyone who knew the pair. Wishing the fashionista luck, the Princess of Friendship and her sister-in-law took their leave.

==============================================================================

The courtship between Rarity and Applejack turned out to be a heartwarming, yet anticlimactic affair. There were no grand announcements or dramatic displays. In fact, the first verbal acknowledgement of their new relationship was an offhanded comment by AJ when Pinkie invited them to an overnight party. (Her friends wouldn't let her call them sleepovers anymore after they started turning 30.)

"Sorry, Pinks. Me 'n Rarity are stayin' in tonight. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle are on a camping trip with their class. And with Big Mac and Granny visiting the cousins, we got the house to ourselves, so we're makin' an evening of it."

This piece of information left Pinkie vibrating while a soft but high pitched squee escaped through her teeth. All in all, she looked like she was about to explode from joy.

"Ease up, Pie," Applejack warned, poking her friend on the forehead.

With herculean effort, Pinkie controlled her emotions. Nodding, she left with nothing but an ear to ear smile as she practically frolicked out the door.

The couple were together for a little over two years before they announced their engagement. True to form, Applejack treated it as a down-to-earth, logical affair. Something that insulted Rarity's sense of romance.

"We're going to build another house on the edge of the east field," Rarity said, recounting their conversation to Twilight and Fluttershy the next day over tea. "It'll give us our own space and allow Sweetie Belle to stay in the main house with Apple Bloom whenever she wishes to."

"That's a good idea," Twilight nodded. "Though you don't seem too enthused about it."

"I suspect Rarity was looking for more of a heartfelt proposal and less of a business meeting," Fluttershy said, hiding her smile behind her teacup.

"Quite," Rarity replied in a dour tone. "Though technically she's proposing tomorrow night. She swears it'll make up for the rather lackluster beginning."

The unicorn's expression made it clear that this idea was skeptical at best. Yet two days hence, when Fluttershy inquired as to the outcome, Rarity could only stammer that it was 'satisfactory', all while blushing furiously.

"AJ knocked it out of the park," Fluttershy later told Rainbow Dash.

============================================================================

The wedding took place on Sweet Apple Acres, timed to when the apple trees were in full bloom. Applejack had spent the preceding weeks tormenting her fiancé with threats of holding the service in the barn, wearing her flannel and overalls instead of a dress, and other such atrocities. In the end though, she did her future wife proud.

It took place outside among the trees. A main aisle had been created with a bed of flower petals and lined with simple, but elegant white ribbons and lace. Celestia herself had agreed to officiate. A white platform and arched trellis with wisteria draped over it had been constructed for her and the wedding party. Applejack HAD skipped on wearing a dress, but instead wore a white suit that Rarity had helped her pick out.

"She even left her hat in her room," Apple Bloom said as she and Sweetie Belle helped Rarity finish up her hair and makeup.

"She's not wearing her hat?" Rarity asked, nonchalantly.

"Eeyup. Reckon she thought it wouldn't look right with 'er finery."

Rarity only nodded to this. She waited until Apple Bloom was preoccupied before pulling Sweetie Belle aside and whispering to her quickly. Rarity's younger sister only grinned and nodded, waiting until an opportune moment before slipping out of the room.

When the wedding started, some of those attending wondered why the unicorn bride walked down the aisle with one hand behind her back. When Rarity reached AJ, she smiled at the confused look on the farmer's face. Finally, she brought her hand around and deftly dropped a battered stetson onto her fiancé's head.

"There," Rarity grinned. "That's much better."

Applejack's shocked expression broke into a huge smile that stayed plastered to her face for the rest of the ceremony. And when Celestia finished and declared the two wed, the farmer scooped her wife up with a loud whoop and twirled her around with joy.

It was one of the days in her life that Twilight would consider almost perfect. And she would treasure the memory of it forever.

==================================================================================

Twilight didn't know it at the time, but AJ and Rarity's marriage was the start of a major turning point in her life. While they'd never been official, full-time agents of the Bureau, Twilight's friends had been involved almost enough to be considered such.

But with their new life together starting, Rarity and Applejack became less and less present as time went on. Their friendship remained as strong as ever, but they couldn't devote as much time to the Bureau as they used to. Nor would Twilight have wanted them to. The Bureau was the life Twilight had chosen for herself. She wanted her friends to be free to choose their lives as well.

The same happened with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, though for different reasons. The duo had been making trips here and there weighing in on agricultural practices, energy production, and other programs that were a concern to Gaea. Equestrian technology had always been pretty careful about the environment, but long-term effects were not always easy to predict.

It was mainly small stuff, but it eventually piled up enough that Celestia decided to appoint a special council to completely overhaul all programs that needed to be brought into symbiotic harmony with the planet's guardian. All in all, the project was expected to take around 30 to 40 years to be fully integrated.

Of course, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were integral to the reformation. The two never complained, but it was clear to their friends that between the council and the Bureau, they had little to no time for themselves. Twilight ended up insisting that the couple take an indefinite hiatus from Bureau operations.

"Alright," Dash finally agreed after much convincing. "But if you need us... for anything at all..."

"You'll be the first person I call," Twilight assured her, pulling her friend into a hug.

"And we'll always be ready to answer."

========================================================================

To say Twilight didn't miss working with her friends would be untrue. She felt their absence immensely, but their happiness was more important. And besides, the Bureau had only grown and improved over the years. Twilight was now in command of the most skilled, knowledgeable, and best equipped force on the face of the planet. The Bureau of Harmony not only handled ponykind's problems, but was now regularly called in by most other nations as well. Most of the time the public never even knew about a situation simply because the Bureau resolved it before it was necessary.

Though while Twilight may not have missed their elbow grease, she did miss their council. As the Bureau's reach expanded, Twilight found herself faced with tougher decisions. Compromises and morally gray areas abounded, forcing her to choose between what she thought was right and what she thought was best for Equestria.

"It's a burden of leadership," Celestia had stated sympathetically. "The more responsibility one takes on, the more difficult choices they will have to make. And with the Bureau, you've taken on a great deal of responsibility."

"It's just.... I know I'm making the right choice," Twilight said as they stood on Celestia's balcony, watching Luna's moon rise into the sky. "It's logical, it has the best outcome, it reduces risk.... it's the obvious answer. But somehow... I always feel like a failure."

The Sun Princess smiled sadly. She wrapped an arm around her former pupil's shoulders, pulling her comfortingly into her side.

"I know, Twilight. And honestly, I'm thankful that you do." She chuckled a little at the younger alicorn's confused look. "Please don't misunderstand me, you are in no way a failure. I couldn't be any prouder of you as a teacher or a mo..."

Celestia cut herself off, looking away awkwardly. Her young companion understood. It had always been an unspoken thing between them. Twilight loved her parents unconditionally. But there was no denying that Celestia held an equal or greater position in regards to her upbringing. Even now, neither of them could voice it properly.

Still, Twilight reached over with her hand, lacing her fingers with the Sun Princess'. A soft squeeze and a heartfelt look was enough to convey her understanding and gratitude. Celestia smiled back, taking a moment to collect herself before continuing.

"As hard as that feeling of failure is; it is also just as important," she went on, absently rubbing Twilight's knuckles with her thumb. "The day that a leader feels nothing for sacrificing their morals for the sake of their people, is the day that they no longer deserve to lead. Don't shy away from that feeling, Twilight. Embrace it. It can keep you from becoming complacent. Keep you always looking for every possibility; for another way. You can't let it overwhelm you, but you can use it to inspire you."

Twilight didn't answer, but nodded as the two royals stood together in the coming night. Celestia said no more, knowing that the silence was her young protégé absorbing and analyzing everything she'd said. The Sun Princess was certain that Twilight would be fine. Despite her insecurities and flaws, the Princess of Friendship was strong. Perhaps the strongest pony Celestia had ever known. The ancient alicorn truly believed that there was nothing her young friend couldn't do if she put her mind to it.

=============================================================================

Twilight liked to consider herself primarily a realist. She didn't like to be seen as bragging, but she also didn't want to understate her abilities. And for the most part, she achieved this quite well. She could extoll her strengths while admitting to her flaws. While the latter used to embarrass her when she was younger, maturity and her friends had made her more comfortable being humble when appropriate.

In her 52nd year, however, Princess Twilight received a permanent, physical reminder of her own shortcomings.

Over the last decade or so, one of the Bureau's ongoing projects was the study of dimensional mapping. With some help from Sunset Shimmer and the elements of her adopted home-dimension, the Bureau had successfully managed to first control the mirror-portal between their worlds and then build their own.

Next was being able to "dial into" other dimensions. They'd had limited if steady success so far, but in the process they'd discovered what the team referred to as the Void. It was a realm of almost literally nothing that seemed to exist "in-between" dimensional worlds.

(Twilight had some reservations about that description since it oversimplified the idea, but it got the basic concept across, so she overlooked it.)

Like with anything new, Twilight was eager to study this discovery. It wasn't immediately exciting since it seemed the Void was very much as empty as it seemed. But at least that meant it was a safe and uneventful process. Or it was, right up until one of their magical probes actually found something.

Twilight was first made aware of the discovery when the Bureau's alarms started blaring one morning. Complex-wide alerts were reserved for major emergencies. And indeed, when the alicorn checked she found the portal research laboratories had been locked down and the time dilation fields activated.

Each area of the Bureau's facility had a small section outside the entrance outfitted for occasions like this. Video and audio surveillance, communications, data collection, and even some remote access to safety protocols within the area. Basically a mini HQ in case a section became inaccessible or too dangerous to enter.

It was in this area that Twilight met with Briar Root, the portal division's lead researcher, and Opal Keen, one of Twilight's top scientists. Luckily almost the entire division's staff had been evacuated and the time dilation was holding. Though not as well as she would have liked.

Briar filled Twilight in quickly, his voice breathless and shaking. The team had been exploring the Void as usual when the magical probe came across an object. At first they thought it was just debris, but closer inspection revealed it to be more like some kind of growth. Vaguely fungal in nature, but seemingly inert and well within the safety parameters for collection.

So they collected it.

As soon as the probe touched it, the thing sprung to life. It absorbed the probe and actually started traveling up the magical tether connecting it to their dimension. It happened so fast that by the time they knew what was happening, it was already out of the portal and all over the probe control station. The unicorn running the probe was gone in an instant; absorbed before he even had time to call out.

The research team immediately evacuated, trapping the strange fungus in the lab with the time dilation field. Though Opal soon discovered that the organism was absorbing even that. The field was holding and feeding it at the same time. Opal estimated that they had about four hours before the field would fail.

A whirlwind of activity filled the next four hours. All other activities were put on hold and everything was directed toward neutralizing the fungus. Switching off the portal wouldn't work. Scans of the organism showed that any part of it could survive autonomously. Any kind of magical attack was useless since it absorbed energy just as readily as physical matter. If it got out of the labs, there was a good chance that it's growth would be unstoppable and endless. There was a real possibility that it could swallow up everything.

It was in hour three that a solution was finally found. The fungus grew by absorbing energy and matter and converting it into biomass, but traces of its 'meals' still remained. A calcifying agent in a flask, the flask inscribed with runes of protection, and the whole thing charged with an acceleration spell. The runes made sure the calcifying agent remained intact enough to stay active and the acceleration spell made it work at a much faster rate. Basically, the fungus' own nature would absorb and spread the agent almost immediately, and the enhancements made sure it stayed effective enough to outpace the organism's conversion rate.

Normally, this would be a proud moment for Twilight. Her team identified and neutralized a threat in record time. But the countless scans had revealed something else. The fungus was emitting rudimentary thought patterns. Nothing complex, about on par with something like a mollusk. 'Grow. Survive.' Just basic stuff really, but it was enough that Twilight had to acknowledge the fact that they'd be outright killing it.

Work began on the calcifying plan while a brief effort to find an alternative solution was made. But it was clear that there was no time. The runes and spells had to be woven together carefully and charged to as powerful as they could be made. It was finished with about half an hour left before the time dilation field would fail.

The plan went off without a hitch. The flask was deployed and, just as predicted, the fungus absorbed it and almost instantly calcified. It went hard and turned a dark purple color, ceasing all activity. The portal was closed and once the fungus was proven truly dead, the lab was reopened.

Twilight felt little triumph, however. Her safety protocols had failed, a Bureau member was dead, and they'd been forced to kill a creature whose only crime was following its natural instincts. She didn't regret killing it; there'd been no choice. She did regret not being able to prevent it though.

"You can't plan for everything," Rainbow Dash had said the next time they'd all gotten together. The others all chimed in to agree. Twilight couldn't help but smile. Dash and Fluttershy were spending most of their time in griffon territory at the moment, negotiating on behalf of Celestia's environmental reform initiatives. Applejack and Rarity were currently in the middle of adopting their first child. Yet here they all were, love and concern in their eyes as they tried to console her.

"You can't obsess over this, sugarcube," Applejack added. "You do all you can."

"I appreciate it AJ," Twilight answered. "I'm not obsessing over it, but I can't forget it either. It's a lesson to keep trying harder. And you shouldn't forget a lesson."

The others immediately began to object, but Pinkie stepped in between Twilight and the others.

"Guys, guys," she spoke up, waving the others into silence. "Twilight said she's not obsessing and you know how she is about lessons and learning."

The party planner turned to Twilight, taking her by the shoulders as she looked her in the eye.

"If you say you need this to be better, then I trust you, Twilight. Just as long as it's a lesson and not a punishment."

Funnily enough, Pinkie had ended up being one of the major constants in Twilight's life. The earth pony didn't do much work for the Bureau and was still as busy as ever with parties and Sugarcube Corner. She even took a month-long trip to help Cheese Sandwich with what they had described as "The Partiest Party to Ever Exist". But she always seemed to be around. Stopping by Twilight's office to gossip about something or other. Bringing Twilight a snack when she was working late. Even just laying around while Twilight used her as a sounding board for new ideas.

Now Twilight looked into her friend's face and smiled. Her mortal friends were approaching middle age and Twilight could see the first hints of wrinkles on the pink pony's face. But her eyes were as bright as ever and her expression radiated concern, but also a trust so solid that it almost made Twilight's breath catch in her throat.

"Not a punishment," she agreed, taking Pinkie's hands from her shoulders so she could hold them in her own.

"I promise."

===================================================================================

The final chapter of the event occurred two months later. Opal Keen asked Twilight to come down to her personal laboratory. Opal was a stoic, mostly unemotional pony. Logical almost to a fault, but also one of the smartest people Twilight had ever met. Unfortunately, her superior intellect often led her to not asking for or outright ignoring the requests of her colleagues and superiors.

Twilight had suggested (she rarely ordered her scientists) that the remains of the Void organism be disposed of back to whence it came. The dark purple sword sitting in the middle of Opal's lab told her that at least some of it had remained.

Twilight listened to Opal's full rundown about what her studies had revealed. About the now inert material and how she'd forged it into the blade that was before them. The peculiar molecular structure allowed the edge to be sharpened to an extreme degree and tests had so far shown a complete immunity to dulling. More interesting though was that the material had an exceptional ability to absorb and hold magical energy. Opal theorized that when charged with magic, the blade could cut through nearly anything.

It was a good weapon. It would probably end up being one of the Bureau's most powerful assets. Yet looking at it, Twilight had a hard time seeing anything but a corpse.

"We should name it," one of her agents had said after the project became common knowledge. "Something like 'Blade of Harmony'? To match Bureau of Harmony?"

Twilight shook her head.

"Weapons are often needed to defend harmony," she said. "But at their core, they are tools of destruction. Even its protection is based on how much destruction it can cause. We will use them to protect ourselves, but we will not glorify them or pretend they're any more than what they are."

That was how the Blade of Regret came to be. Twilight sat alone in her office for the rest of that day.

"A lesson," she quietly reminded herself. "Not a punishment."

====================================

Excerpt from Bureau of Harmony file #592: Void Clusters

Discovered in the buffer area between dimensions known as the Void [see file #548], these organisms appear to be a combination of biological and mineral components. They exhibit behavior similar to some mosses or fungi; growing by spreading in area rather than just by size. They produce new biomass by absorbing any physical object or energy field they come in contact with.

Void Clusters are rare and seem to naturally grow no bigger than palm-sized orbs. Presumably this is due to the Void being almost bereft of matter or energy. While the Clusters seem to need very little actual sustenance to survive, the rare absorbable material that leaks through appears to be just enough to maintain their status quo.

Important Note:

Void Clusters have been designated as extremely dangerous. Because of the First Contact Disaster [see file #591] Clusters are to be avoided at all costs and are never to be removed from the Void.

Chapter 4: Death and Other Minor Inconveniences

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Life went on for Twilight and her friends. Years passed, adventures came and went, as well as people. The Bureau had three more run-ins with Tirek over the next two centuries, each time becoming less dicey than the last. The last plan was a somewhat clumsy attempt to infiltrate the Bureau itself. The centaur had managed to assemble a small group of rogue changelings to act as troops. Twilight didn't know exactly what he'd promised them in exchange for their loyalty, but it seemed to have convinced them.

Changeling-detection was secondhand to the Bureau, though. (Developed jointly with Thorax and Chrysalis.) The would-be infiltrators were discovered and imprisoned within the first day. Twilight was rather surprised at how shoddy Tirek's schemes had become. Yet still the centaur evaded capture. That was Twilight's only frustration; that her enemy always managed to slip through their fingers at the last moment.

But his plans were foiled and Twilight had other things to think about. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy returned to the Bureau after Celestia's infrastructure project was done. About the same time, Rarity and Applejack officially retired from Twilight's organization. Typical of the Apple clan, the two ended up with a large family. Two adopted children, a boy and girl, and five natural births thanks to some spellwork from Twilight. Two girls, a boy, and a set of twins.

Big Macintosh married Miss Cheeralie about three years after AJ and Rarity. The two had their own brood of five children.

Granny Smith lived long enough to see ten of her twelve great grandchildren born and Apple Bloom happily engaged. The Apple matriarch passed away at the ripe old age of 112. Of course, not until about a month AFTER that year's harvest, as any self-respecting Apple would.

Most of the town showed up for Granny Smith's funeral. And while the affair was solemn, it was more reflective than sad. Few ponies packed as much living into their years as Granny Smith had. The service was held in the morning and the Apples and relatives gathered at Sweet Apple Acres afterward.

The family spent most of the day together before everyone started drifting home a little before sunset. The day ended with Twilight and her friends lounging on the porch, talking lazily about this and that as the sky went dark.

Rarity sat in a rocking chair, the young twins sleeping in their carriers beside her. Applejack leaned against the house next to her wife while Fluttershy and Dash shared the swing. Twilight herself sat on the steps with Pinkie perched on the railing nearby, kicking her feet.

The Princess of Friendship followed along with the conversation, replying or chuckling when necessary. But really she was studying her friends. They were all in their forties and fifties now. Applejack's face just starting to look more weathered than usual. Strands of gray hair provided a stark (but always classy) accent to Rarity's dark purple locks. The laugh lines on Pinkie's face were more pronounced. Only Twilight, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash remained untouched by time's passing.

When Twilight was younger, these observations would have upset her. The thought of losing her friends would spiral her into an obsession. But she'd grown beyond that at this point. She no longer worried about what would happen when her friends were gone and instead focused on enjoying the time they still had together. Granny Smith's death had further cemented this philosophy in Twilight's mind. Her friends would always be with her and she would find joy in their memories, not sorrow.

Of course, Twilight didn't have to face this for quite a while. One of the side effects of being connected to the magic of Harmony turned out to be an extended lifespan.

Rarity was the first of them to succumb to age. At 124, she'd seen her children grown, married, and with families of their own. Three of their seven kids took over the Carousel Boutique which had blossomed into a chain with locations in Canterlot, Manehattan, and more. Rarity herself continued designing right up till her health failed her.

The last week of her life, Rarity laid in bed at their farmhouse. Her friends and family making regular visits almost every day. On Thursday afternoon, Fluttershy came to Twilight with a message. She'd just left AJ and Rarity's, but her connection to Gaea had told her something. That this was the last day.

The old seamstress' family had already said their goodbyes, so that Thursday night was solely for their group. Rarity lay in bed with Applejack sitting beside her, holding her hand.

"Ladies first," the elderly unicorn smiled, voice weak, but unafraid. "I suppose I'll just have to get things ready while I'm waiting for you."

She gave her wife's hand a loving squeeze.

"You might have to wait a bit," Applejack answered. While older than the others already, AJ was still just as sturdy thanks to the magic of Harmony and her own earth pony vitality.

"I'd better be waiting a good, long time. You stubborn old cart horse."

It was less than half an hour later before Rarity slipped into unconsciousness and Twilight knew the time was soon. Taking Rarity's other hand, Twilight's horn glowed softly as she cast one last spell for her old friend. It was one that Celestia had taught her a few years ago for just this occasion. It was called the Sleep of Remembrance. A state that only alicorns could produce, where the subject was placed in a deep sleep where they relived their happiest memories.

It was Twilight's last gift to Rarity.

The old unicorn slipped away less than an hour later.

Many cried at Rarity's funeral, but not her family. Not her five closest friends. For them, Rarity hadn't gone anywhere.

Twilight spoke briefly at the wake. This was the family's time and the Princess of Friendship didn't want to take away from that. But she was one of Rarity's best friends, so she had to say something.

It was short, but heartfelt. Mainly consisting of all she admired and would cherish about Rarity. She ended her speech with a poem. Twilight would speak at the funeral of all three of her mortal friends and she ended them all the same.

"Do not stand at my grave and weep.

I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush,

I am the swift, uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry.

I am not there. I did not die."

======================================

Pinkie never officially retired from the Bureau. When she was younger, she would prance through the compound whenever she fancied it, smiling and laughing heartily with anyone willing to join her. In her elder years she would sit in the public areas, her laugh, while more subdued, still just as full of joy. Her notorious pranks evolved from over-the-top slapstick to more mischievous schemes.

Once, for a whole week she'd convinced a group of new recruits that she was a holographic projection of the Bureau's archive system. They'd ask her for data retrieval which she'd happily provide, telling such outlandish lies that she sent more than a few of them into a panic. Twilight finally caught wind of this and cleared up the matter. But the next time the two were alone together, the princess and the old party pony collapsed into furious fits of giggles.

Pinkie's presence in Twilight's life never lessened. More than once Twilight would ask her about any plans for the future, family, etc. But Pinkie would only smile, shake her head, and laugh the questions off. And Twilight, who cherished her friend's nigh-constant companionship, was willing to let it go at that.

Pinkamena Diane Pie lived until the age of 137. Her final days were in the Ponyville hospital. Not because she particularly needed care, but more that it was easier for people to visit her there rather than Sugarcube Corner. The Cake family still had a business to run after all.

When Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy sensed the end was near, the remaining friends gathered around the old earth pony's bedside. The group talked and laughed quietly through the night. Pinkie smiled as big as ever, but they could all see her growing weaker as the hours drifted by. Twilight never left Pinkie's side; the elderly party planner's hand clasped tightly in hers.

It was just before sunrise when Rainbow, Fluttershy, and Applejack all shared a look. Pinkie could barely keep her eyes open and the three of them knew that the final moments should be for her and Twilight. They had all seen the connection that had developed between the two over the years.

"We'll be outside, sugarcube," AJ said quietly, laying her weathered hand on Twilight's shoulder before following the two elementals out.

Twilight didn't question it. She and Pinkie had never acknowledged it, but she knew they both felt it. And of course, their friends would have seen it too.

"I'm going to miss you, Pinkie" the Princess of Friendship whispered. Voicing the thought was enough to bombard her with just how much she WOULD miss her old friend. Memories of their years together flooded across her mind's eye.

Pinkie ever at her side. Pinkie happily listening to lectures she had no hope of understanding. Pinkie hugging her tightly whenever she felt down. Silly pranks played on coworkers. Calm walks on sunny days. Random bouts of puddle stomping during rainstorms.

For the majority of the time, Pinkie had been one of the brightest spots in Twilight's life. And something she had treasured as a deep and special friendship, suddenly took on a new light.

"I love you, Pinkie," Twilight finally said. Tears ran freely down her cheeks as she clasped Pinkie's hand with both her own. "I love you so much. I wish... I wish I'd..."

But she was cut off by the old earth pony pulling her hands over and placing a kiss on her knuckles.

"No wishes, Twilight. Did we help each other through hard times?"

Twilight nodded.

"Did we make each other happy?"

"So happy," Twilight breathed out, nodding again.

"Then that's all that matters," Pinkie smiled. "As long as I was with you, that was all I needed."

Twilight's friend sighed happily, but wearily. Sensing that Pinkie was drifting off, the alicorn prepared her spell. Again though, she was interrupted by the elderly pony.

"No need for that, Twilight."

"Pinkie, it's just the remembrance spell. It... "

"Shhhh..," Pinkie shushed her. "You're here with me. I couldn't imagine a happier memory."

The earth pony settled back in her bed. Her strength spent. Tears continued to flow from Twilight, but she was smiling also. Pulling herself up slightly, she placed a soft kiss to her friend's forehead as a last goodbye.

Before slipping away, Pinkie mumbled her last words to her alicorn friend.

"Twilight? Discord will probably put a fruitcake in my coffin. Just go with it."

Because of course that's how Pinkie would leave her.

======================================

Pinkie Pie died unmarried and with no descendant. But if someone thought that meant she had no family, they would be grossly mistaken. There were the families of her sisters, of course. All there for the funeral of their beloved Aunt Pinkie. But there was also just about every person that Pinkie had babysat as a child. Those who had received any special party or event. Small business owners that Pinkie had helped out with labor, advertising, or any other favor they needed.

Celestia had once told Twilight that you left a mark on the people you met in your life. Well Pinkie had lived a LONG life and met a LOT of people. And nobody left a mark quite like Pinkamena Diane Pie.

It seemed like just about everyone she had ever met was at the funeral to say their goodbyes to the Element of Laughter. So much so that it had to be an outdoor event, since no building in Ponyville could hold the entire crowd.

Twilight actually kept out of sight for much of it. It wasn't that she was distraught or inconsolable. She just felt a need for privacy. And when she did venture out to mingle with the crowd, she found she wasn't alone in this.

With Pinkie's jubilant, outgoing nature, the crowds were to be expected. But what some might not have expected was the variety of those in attendance. Both in their personalities and their reasons for being there.

Twilight talked to quite a few of them. There were plenty of stories about wild parties and raucous laughter. But there were just as many stories of gentle companionship or simply a sympathetic ear. One stallion hadn't even known Pinkie less than a month ago. A Canterlot University dropout, he'd gotten a job as a janitor at a local factory. For his first couple years he went about his work in a morose haze; his depression deepening as time went by.

Then all of a sudden, every Monday he would find a cupcake in his locker along with a note. It was never anything too deep or meaningful.

'It's going to be very sunny tomorrow.'

'The break room looks GREAT!'

'There's a traveling fair outside of town this week. You should go!'

The notes were never signed, but they were there at the beginning of every week without fail. And gradually they had bolstered his spirits. He began to take pride in his job. He returned to hobbies he had previously abandoned. He even started leaving notes of his own in his locker before he left for the weekend.

This went on until a few weeks ago when he got the last note. It apologized that they wouldn't be able to leave cupcakes anymore because of their health, but reiterated how proud they were of him. And this time it was signed.

'Love, Pinkie Pie'

The stallion had actually sought her out and visited Pinkie in the hospital. He was struck by how genuinely happy she was to see him.

Like Twilight, he kept to himself during the service. But the Princess of Friendship could hear the gratitude and care in his voice while they talked.

After the speeches were made and the casket lowered, the service concluded with a display of fireworks courtesy of 'Luna and Cheese's Traveling Variety Show', now run by their son.

Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy ended the night together as usual. Reminiscing until the small hours of the morning.

And Pinkie had been right. Discord did put a fruitcake in her casket, tucking it snugly under her arm. Twilight had considered asking him about it, but decided to 'go with it' as Pinkie had suggested. Not that she would've had the chance then anyway. As soon as he'd placed the cake, Discord had reached up to his head and 'unzipped' himself into a large display of tie-dyed flowers that puffed cotton candy smoke rings.

======================================

Applejack continued on as always. She buried her brother and sister when they passed away. Sweet Apple Acres was taken over by the next generation of Apples, though the ancient Apple matriarch was still there. Most days she could be found sitting on the front porch of her and Rarity's old house, rocking away in a battered chair.

Newcomers to Ponyville would be taken aback whenever they'd notice the alicorn Princess of Friendship, Twilight Sparkle, dropping by the farm and talking casually with the elder Apple.

"Who is that old lady?" they would ask a longtime resident.

"Oh, that's just Great-Granny Applejack," the other would answer with a grin.

Applejack would reach the age of 200. Almost unknown for a mortal pony. Her death was much like her life. Simple, uncomplicated, and matter-of-fact. There was no week-long bedrest or multiple doctor appointments. One day Applejack was fine and the next she had called for her immortal friends, saying it was her time.

"Took long enough," the old cowpony chuckled. She'd traded her usual rocking chair for a comfy recliner inside her house.

"You were never one to take the quick and easy route," Rainbow Dash said, grinning at her friend from her seat at the dining room table.

They talked quietly for half an hour before Applejack waved Twilight over to her side. The old mare patted the alicorn's hand as it came to rest on the chair arm. Old hands that were once the strongest that Twilight knew, now weak from age, but still just as steady.

"I can tell it's my last night," AJ said to her. "I've had a great life, friends and family, and Rarity's waitin' for me. And yet..."

The Apple matriarch paused, a look on her face somewhere between interest and confusion.

"And yet, I feel like I'm not done."

"You've done more than enough, Applejack," Twilight tried to reassure her.

"It ain't about not doing enough, it's just..." AJ trailed off, unable to find the words to explain herself. She was silent for a moment or two before she seemed to come to a decision.

"I'll be seeing you, Twilight."

The Princess of Friendship could have said many things. What lay beyond death was still a mystery to even the most learned unicorns. There were theories and even some evidence, but nothing conclusive. Nothing that would give any hope to the idea of someone coming back from beyond that horizon.

But Applejack said she would see her again and Applejack doesn't lie. What else could Twilight say?

"I'll be waiting."

======================================

Applejack's funeral was almost as big as Pinkie's. The entire Apple clan and its connected families made up quite a gathering. It was a sweet and simple affair. All who knew her would attest that Applejack would have approved.

When it was all over, Twilight, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy sat atop a hill overlooking Sweet Apple Acres. The last of their mortal friends was gone. All three felt the shift. One era was over and a new one was beginning.

There were new adventures to have, disasters to avert, and villains to defeat. There was the founding of the School of Friendship, headed by reformed unicorn turned alicorn, Starlight Glimmer. There was Spike's farewell party when he left with Ember to learn more about his people.

The Bureau's work with alternate dimensions continued and expanded. They could now make their own portals to targeted parallel worlds. New technology, new magic, and much more was being discovered regularly. Fluttershy spent a whole year physically and mentally connected to the Everfree in an attempt to tame it; eventually creating a safe path through the heart of the wild region.

Opal Keen had risen through the ranks of the Bureau to become Twilight's number one researcher and unofficial second-in-command.

(It would have been official if not for Opal's habit of losing interest in Bureau activities every now and then in favor of her own endeavors.)

As age began to wear on the earth pony scientist, Twilight expected that she'd want to retire. But Opal Keen would hear none of it. She seemed merely annoyed that such a trivial thing as death would get in the way of her studies. If she'd been limited to Equestrian technology and magics, she likely would've been doomed to failure. But with the vast discoveries from the multiverse at her disposal, her chances were much better.

That was how the Bureau's Identity Matrix was created. A staggering amalgamation of science and magic that ran throughout the facility. The very day it was completed, the elderly Opal Keen hooked herself up to the device and transferred her consciousness into the machine.

It still wasn't perfect, as Opal was now without a physical form capable of doing her own work. But that was a temporary inconvenience. And now she had plenty of time to solve it.

It was one more miraculous event in Twilight's life. One in a string that she would have never believed possible in her younger years. But if running the Bureau had taught her anything, it was that nothing was impossible.

Twilight never forgot Applejack's final words. But life goes on and more immediate concerns take precedent. But still, it would be almost twenty years before Applejack kept her promise.

======================================

It happened one night in late fall. Twilight had been uneasy all that evening. A restless feeling plagued her throughout the night and left her tossing and turning in her bed.

It was like something was poking at the back of her mind. Something just outside her perception that she couldn't manage to focus in on. It became more and more prominent as the night stretched on until finally it lanced through Twilight's brain like a lightening flash.

In that instant, the alicorn princess reached out with her magic, attempting to grasp the strange energy. She was almost shocked when she actually caught hold of it. It was still beyond her perception, but she had a magical grip on it. Determined to solve this mystery, Twilight gathered all her arcane might and pulled.

For a moment she felt the very fabric of reality pulling against her, but she refused to be denied. With one last determined pull, she felt the something 'pop' through, at the same time a flash lit up the room. Blinking to clear her vision, Twilight initially thought that nothing had happened before a voice made her breath catch in her throat.

"Dagnabbit, Twilight. I was starting to think you'd NEVER hear me."

Twilight could hardly believe her ears. But as she glanced around, the room still appeared empty.

"Over here Twi," the voice came again. "Shoot! This is gonna be awkward if she can't see us."

"Nonsense," a second voice scoffed. "With her magic, she can't help but see us. Just give her a moment, darling."

Indeed, even as they talked to each other, Twilight's magical senses were zeroing in. Two forms slowly came into view, floating at the foot of her bed. They were misty and translucent, but still perfectly recognizable.

The ghostly forms of Applejack and Rarity hovered before her. Their faces returned to the prime of life and both smiling at her. It would have been a perfect moment if Twilight hadn't leapt up to hug them only to pass straight through and fall face first on the floor.

Going back to sleep was out of the question at that point. So, Twilight made herself some tea and sat with her two ghostly friends until sunrise. They tried to keep the talk light, mostly about what had gone on since Applejack's death. Any of the real topics should wait until Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy could join them.

Still, Twilight couldn't help but try and get a little information out of the two about where they'd been and what it was like. She was disappointed though, as the couple staunchly refused to discuss it.

"Sorry sugarcube," AJ chuckled at Twilight's pouting. "But we kicked up enough of a ruckus forcing our way back over. Spillin' the beans to the living world just ain't gonna happen."

"Alright, fine," Twilight finally conceded. "Can you at least tell me if it's... good? I mean, were you happy there?"

"Beyond happy. I tell ya Twi, it's... it's really something else."

Applejack's wistful reply made Twilight smile. The knowledge that something existed beyond the living world was exciting. But knowing it was also something that provoked that kind of reaction....

Well, like Applejack said, it was something else. Still, it did raise one question to mind.

"But if it was so wonderful, then why come back?"

The two looked surprised for a moment before sharing a smile.

"Twilight," Rarity replied, reaching across the table to lay her spectral hand on the alicorn's. "When we were alive we had love, friends, and a wonderful family, thanks in no small part to you. We've HAD our long and happy life. Now we want to help you with yours. Paradise will always be there."

Twilight couldn't help but tear up a little, sniffling into her teacup. Once again she was struck speechless by how amazing her friends were. But there WAS something else. Something Twilight had thought of immediately, but had been a little afraid to ask. She had to ask it though.

"Applejack, did you... see Pinkie? Did she prefer to stay on the other side?"

It was the first time since their return that Twilight saw their smiles falter.

"I looked for her, sugarcube. I don't understand it cause she should've been there, but.... she wasn't."

Twilight's heart seemed to skip a beat.

"But then where....?"

Applejack could only shake her head.

"I don't know."

======================================

The reunion with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy lifted Twilight's spirits. With the five of them chatting happily in her quarters, it almost felt like old times again. After that it was time for Twilight's favorite past time; research. Applejack and Rarity sat through a slew of scans, tests, and proddings with a minimum of complaining.

The data they gathered was intriguing, but baffling. It would take some time to work it all out. The abilities of the two ghosts however, were much easier to see. The couple could partly control their visibility. If they wanted to, they could be invisible to all but the most powerful of magic users. Likewise, their solidity was just as variable. They could go from completely solid to fully intangible. Though while they could pass through any solid object, magical force fields still presented an obstacle.

Perhaps most impressive was their ability to possess living beings. Applejack and Rarity could merge with a living organism and either lay dormant within or actually take control of its actions. Once again though, magic could still stymie them. Testing this was what led to one of the final discoveries of the ghostly couple's powers. And probably the one that Twilight would find most useful.

"You ready, Twilight?" Applejack asked her friend.

"Ready whenever you are."

The five of them were standing in one of the Bureau's testing rooms. They were in the middle of assessing AJ and Rarity's possession ability. The two seemed completely immune to physical barriers, but magic still affected them. Twilight wanted to know if a pony's innate magical aura could hinder a possession attempt. They had already tried with Rainbow Dash and found they couldn't possess the elemental at all. 'Feels like there's no room,' Applejack had said. Now it was Twilight's turn.

"Okay, sugarcube. Here we go."

Applejack's spectral form surged forward, losing shape a bit as it rushed at, and then into, Twilight Sparkle. The alicorn felt the presence within her, but otherwise felt completely normal.

"Applejack? Can you try taking control of me?"

Her friend's voice echoed within her mind.

"I'm tryin' Twilight, but I can't seem to budge ya even an inch."

"Interesting," the alicorn pondered. " So, you can possess me, but can't puppet me. Can you tell if it's just not possible or am I subconsciously resisting you?"

"Definitely resisting," the farmer answered. Some of the Bureau's agents had been able to provide slight resistance to total control. "It feels like magical resistance, but before it was just an obstacle. You.... yer like a mountain. I can't make a lick of headway."

"Okay, then let's try something different," Twilight continued. "I'm going to try and lower my magical defenses. See if it makes any difference."

"Will do," Applejack answered.

The ghostly farmer stood by while her alicorn friend focused. Twilight concentrated on her magic, willing it to recede as much as it could.

"Whoa, something's happening," she heard Applejack say. "Hold on, I'll try again."

Twilight felt her friend's energy moving further into her consciousness. Her natural defenses attempted to flare up at the intrusion, but the alicorn princess kept a firm hold on them. Twilight's eyes had been closed in concentration. Now, all of a sudden, they shot open.

"What...."

Twilight uttered one word before trailing off. Her face had a shocked expression and she was staring in fascination at her hands.

"Umm... did it work?" Rainbow Dash asked after a moment.

"Yes!" Twilight's answer was immediate. Though she immediately seemed to change her mind. "I mean.... no. Not really."

"Twilight, is that you or Applejack?" Rarity's question held a note of worry.

"It's... both?"

The reactions from the others were a mixture of worry, confusion, and maybe a touch of panic. Luckily Twilight/Applejack had gotten a better handle on things and managed to calm them down.

"Guys, it's alright," she assured them with a smile. "I can still feel where the connection is. I can... well, Twilight can sever it anytime she wants and she and Applejack will separate immediately."

"Well, as long as it's not permanent," Rarity sighed, feeling a bit less frantic. "I love you Twilight, but I'd rather not have my wife sharing a body with you."

"Don't worry, Rarity," Twilight said with a reassuring smile. "The initial shock threw us for a loop, but we've got a handle on it now."

"What's it like?" Fluttershy asked. Her initial worry had been replaced with curiosity. "Being two people, I mean."

"It's hard to describe," the alicorn struggled for words. "Twilight's still mostly in charge, but it's like we're both considering what to do and then coming to a consensus."

"Can you see each other's memories?" Rarity chimed in.

Twilight paused, as though considering.

"I think we could," she finally answered. "But we'll hold off on that for now."

"Probably a good idea," Rainbow nodded. "Even among friends, some things are just too private to go digging through."

"Better not spend too long merged until we understand it better," Twilight said partly to herself. "But first..."

She trailed off as she went to the testing rooms controls. The panel reacted to her magical commands, raising a rectangular column of gray material in the center of the room.

"The punching block?" Confusion tinged Rainbow's voice once more. "What's that for?"

"Just testing something," Twilight answered, walking over to stand in front of the column. "Ever since we merged I've felt lighter. Sturdier. I'm curious if there's any physical correlation."

The physical resistance compound (or 'punching block' as the agents called it) was made out of a material designed to absorb kinetic energy. It was actually fairly soft in its inert form, but would immediately solidify when struck. By measuring the density of the material after the blow, you could mathematically quantify the kinetic force. During testing the block had once been hit with a cannonball at near point-blank range. It had actually managed to crack the column slightly.

Twilight Sparkle pulled back her arm and hit the column with all her might. The 'punching block' exploded. The top fell to the floor, the middle now reduced to nothing but rubble.

"Twilight?" Rainbow Dash was dumbfounded. "Was that magic or..."

"No, it was a purely physical blow," Twilight interrupted. She was equally shocked, but with a giddy, excited undertone. "Applejack's earth pony abilities are augmenting Twilight's earth pony aspects. It's increased our strength exponentially."

Suddenly a thought seemed to occur to her and her eyes snapped towards the other ghostly pony.

"Rarity," Twilight called, her voice taking on that slightly manic tone she got when something truly excited her. "Try and possess me at the same time as Applejack."

"What?!" Rarity was taken aback. "Twilight, do you really think that's safe?"

"Of course," Twilight answered much more quickly than Rarity would have liked. "I was planning on testing simultaneous possession next week anyway. We're just moving it up a bit."

Rarity looked unsure. This seemed terribly irresponsible, but Twilight was very confident that she could handle it. The alicorn used to be impetuous and reckless when it came to her research. But that was a lifetime ago. Rarity had seen Twilight grow into a responsible and cautious leader with her own eyes. If Twilight said it was alright, Rarity couldn't help but believe her.

"Alright, darling," the phantom pony said, still sounding nervous. "I hope you know what you're doing."

Like Applejack, Rarity's form distorted and shot into Twilight's body. Another presence joined the first two. Three minds in one brain felt the initial surge of physical strength now joined by a magical one. In that moment, they were among the top three most powerful forces on the planet. They could almost feel the atoms in the air brushing their fingertips. Twilight's eyes opened again, now glowing slightly as they looked at the world in a new light and breathed out in quiet amazement.

"Holy shit..."

======================================

Twilight kept Applejack and Rarity's return within the Bureau. The other princesses were informed of course, and she made sure that the two ghosts knew they could visit any friends or family they wished. She wasn't trying to keep them hidden, but she also didn't think that making it public knowledge was a good idea. Luckily AJ and Rarity agreed with her. Besides invisibly visiting their descendants to see how they were doing, the two were happy to spend most of their time at the Bureau.

Meanwhile, Twilight went on with her experiments into alternate dimensions. Her team now regularly collaborated with three people from these other worlds. There was an alternate Princess Twilight Sparkle from a dimension of quadrupedal ponies. Now ruling their Equestria in place of the retired royal sisters. There was Dr. Celeste Ternia, a scientist from a world of beings similar to the 'humans' from the mirror portal. And of course there was Twilight's original collaborator, Sunset Shimmer.

Or at least, the entity that Sunset Shimmer had become. The Bureau's scientists still couldn't agree on what to actually call it. A gestalt, a hivemind, or something else entirely. Sunset herself didn't know, but was also not very interested in finding out. For Twilight though, it was a fascinating example of magical energies and their reaction to foreign dimensional resonances.

Sunset described it as a slow process. The Harmony magic that connected Twilight and her friends, had a different effect on Sunset and her versions of Twilight and the others. As time went on they continued to get closer to each other to the point that they could almost tell what each other were thinking. And then it wasn't just 'almost'. They were hearing each other's thoughts. They could sense where each of them was with seemingly no limit of time or space. Each of them still had a separate form, but eventually it was more like they were one person in multiple bodies. At the same time, the magical abilities granted them by the Harmony magic grew as well until they could alter reality itself.

Twilight estimated that they were about on par with Discord in terms of raw power, though without the Chaos Lord's unpredictable nature. Also, it seemed their power was partly tied to their home dimension, as Sunset confirmed her powers were lessened when visiting Twilight's dimension. Whether this was from being in a different reality or because of being separated from her other parts, they still weren't sure. But Sunset's abilities had been invaluable to Twilight's progress.

At the same time there was also the dragon expansion to deal with. The draconic tribes were spreading out and inevitably coming into conflict with established cities and villages. There had been no violence yet, but things were tense in several areas. Still, the silver lining was that Twilight got to see Spike again. With the help of Spike and Ember, Twilight was able to keep the disagreements to battles of diplomacy rather than weapons.

And yet, through it all, Twilight had one constant thought that plagued her.

Where was Pinkie?

Whatever afterlife Applejack and Rarity had experienced may not have been the only one in existence, but then why would Pinkie be in a different one? AJ didn't claim to know everything, but she seemed pretty sure of herself when she insisted that the pink earth pony SHOULD have been there. It worried Twilight. Especially because she was so helpless to do anything about it. The only thing that gave her hope was Discord. In one of his rare moments of selflessness, he calmed Twilight and promised her he'd do all he could to look into it.

Discord's magic wasn't bound by the rules and limitations that governed their own. If anyone could find out what was going on, it would be him. But as time went by, there was still no news. Twilight went on with her duties, but Pinkie's fate hung like a cloud over her. Discord assured her he was making headway, though always apologized genuinely for how long it was taking.

In hindsight, Twilight supposed that should have tipped her off. Discord rarely did anything in a completely genuine way. And when it came to actual empathy, that only happened if your name was Fluttershy or if he was guilty of something.

======================================

The day it all came to a head started normaly enough. Twilight was in the dimensional studies section going over some recent scans with Opal and the research team. They were currently cataloging dimensional resonances and looking for significant divergences.

Dimensional resonances were a useful discovery that the Bureau had made a couple years ago. Each dimension had a unique aura or resonance. And by comparing the resonances, the Bureau scientists could tell how similar dimensions were to each other without actually entering them.

The team had recently found a dimension with one of the most divergent resonances they'd ever seen. Further investigation had revealed why. The dimension was nothing more than a wasteland. Dead planets floating in a sea of dead stars. The culprit appeared to be that dimension's own magic. Whether a natural disaster or the result of tampering, the magic of that world had turned toxic. Everything had been wiped out leaving nothing behind but the magic itself.

Twilight had initially been worried about contamination. She made sure study of the new dimension proceeded slowly and cautiously. Luckily the toxic magic was reliant on its home dimension. Any traces that were brought back through immediately went inert. It was an interesting if bleak concept. A dimension of infinite yet useless magical energy.

After leaving the laboratory, Twilight headed for her personal conference room. She'd gotten a message this morning from Rainbow Dash, asking to meet with her and the others in the conference room whenever convenient. When Twilight entered, her four friends were already there.

"Sorry I'm late Rainbow Dash," the alicorn smiled as she took a seat at the circular table. "I was looking over the latest dimensional scans and lost track of time. What did you need me for?"

The blue elemental looked back at her in confusion. In fact, they were all looking at her with puzzled expressions.

"Twilight," Rainbow replied. "We're here because YOU asked us to come. At least, that's what the message said."

"Eeyup," Applejack chimed in. "That's what ours said too."

The spectral farmer levitated a slip of paper over to Twilight.

'Hey guys, I 've got something I want to talk about today. Could you meet me in my conference room whenever you can? I should be there a little before lunch.'

And it was signed, Twilight Sparkle.

"You didn't send those?" Fluttershy asked, sounding a little worried.

Twilight shook her head.

"But then who DID send them?"

In answer to Rarity's question, the room was lit by a flash of light. When their vision cleared they found the table had vanished along with the doors.

"Who else?"

They all instantly recognized the voice. And indeed, floating lazily in the center of the room was Discord.

"I should've known," grumbled Rainbow Dash.

"Discord, you know that if you want to talk to us, you can just ask," Fluttershy said, a hint of reprimand in her voice. "You don't have to trick us into showing up."

"Apologies, dear Fluttershy," Discord answered, bowing melodramatically. "But this is an important matter and I wanted you all here promptly. I thought everyone might be quicker to respond if the request came from Twilight herself. Plus, you know how hard it is for me to pass up a little, harmless joke."

He put on an exaggerated innocent expression while batting his eyes. Fluttershy shook her head, but couldn't hold back a small, indulgent smile.

"Alright, Discord," Twilight sighed. "You've got us here. But why get rid of the doors?"

"Because this is a delicate and possibly volatile matter," Discord answered, floating down to stand on the floor. "And I'd like to keep this between ourselves for the moment."

Twilight was suddenly nervous again. If DISCORD was being cautious, then it must really be something big.

"What is it?"

Discord clicked his tongue while wagging a finger at Twilight.

"No. First I need you all to promise me that you'll let me get through the whole thing before reacting."

Twilight's stomach felt like it was full of lead.

"This doesn't sound like good news, Discord."

"I think it's GREAT news," the draconequus replied happily. "But also... delicate, as I said. And some of us are known to be a bit hot-headed."

The last part was said in a stage-whisper while very obviously glancing in Rainbow Dash's direction. Twilight knew that Discord was just trying to push her friend's buttons. While the two had gotten friendlier over the years, Discord still occasionally found annoying the pegasus amusing.

Luckily, Rainbow Dash had learned not to rise to Discord's bait so easily. At least not usually. She maintained a calm demeanor.

"We're listening."

"Good!" the draconequus said happily, clapping his hands together. "Then let me start with the easy news. I'm taking a holiday!"

"A holiday?" Fluttershy parroted, clearly confused.

"Yes indeed. Working with Twilight all these years on her dimensional experiments has made me a bit nostalgic for when I used to go on long jaunts through the multiverse. I thought it might be time for another trip. Just a century or so; stretch my legs a bit. I really should pop in on Jean Luc. Let him know how I'm doing."

"I thought you quit helping with that project a long time ago," Rainbow Dash remarked.

"That doesn't mean I can't appreciate what a truly wondrous achievement she's made. Why it's amazing! Colossal, even!"

"Really?"

"Of course," Discord laughed. "She's taken the unbelievable wonder and infinite possibilities of the multiverse... and made them dull. Truly Twilight, you never cease to amaze me."

Twilight merely sighed. They'd already had this exchange back when the Chaos Lord first quit the dimensional research team. She'd just finished a lengthy presentation recapping their findings so far and detailing their goals as they moved forward. Where upon Discord stood up, declared that she'd 'ruined it', turned on his heel and left.

In her younger years, she would've been annoyed at the draconequus. But after dealing with all the strange and dangerous things the Bureau had encountered, Twilight kept her cool with him. Partly because of a widened world view, but mostly because she refused to forget anymore.

It was so easy to forget. Twilight used to do it herself and now she watched others do it on a regular basis. After all, it was an easy thing to do. With Discord's often childish attitude, relentless pranks, and nigh-constant smugness, it was easy to forget and treat him simply as an annoyance.

But not Twilight.

No more would she succumb to his teasing and forget that this being could quite possibly wipe out them and their world with little more than a snap of his fingers. So in the face of his needling, Twilight simply sighed and moved on. Besides, this holiday of his brought up a bigger concern anyway.

"Discord, you've never been an actual employee of the Bureau. You're free to come and go as you'd like. If this is just to inform your friends of your vacation, then that's fine. I'd be more than happy to have a little farewell party if you'd like. But... I was hoping you'd make a breakthrough with the issue of Pinkie. If you don't think you can do anything, I understand, but I..."

Discord blinked out of sight, popping up almost instantaneously right in front of Twilight and cutting her off mid-sentence.

"And thus we come to the difficult part of the announcement," he said. He was still smiling, but Twilight noticed his expression had softened slightly. "Because I HAVE made a breakthrough."

Twilight's breath caught in her throat.

"You... you found her?"

"Of course. The truth is, she was never lost."

Discord snapped his fingers. Again a flash lit up the room. Twilight and the others caught sight of the object that appeared a split second before it crashed to the floor with the loud finality of the door to a tomb.

It was a coffin. One that Twilight would have recognized immediately, even without the three balloons engraved on the lid.

"Discord, what the hell are..."

Rainbow Dash's patience had suddenly disappeared. But her angry shout was brought up short by the draconequus himself. He spun about, his expression hard and almost angry as he pointed at her.

"You promised."

His voice was grim and commanding, all traces of mirth now gone. Rainbow Dash didn't flinch, even in the face of a Chaos Lord's anger. But she held her tongue and sat back down. She promised she'd listen and that's what she'd do. There'd be time enough to chew out Discord later.

"Excellent," Discord said, his mood shifting back to levity. "Now just to confirm what I'm sure you all suspect now; I was indeed behind Pinkie's absence from the spirit world. It was not for any malicious reason. In my opinion it was for the good of everyone, but you can decide that for yourselves later."

"But why?" Twilight could hold the question in no longer. She was trying to stay calm, but she could feel herself slipping.

Discord actually almost looked uncomfortable.

"Well, to be perfectly blunt, she needed the time to cook." This didn't help matters and the atmosphere in the room continued to sour. Discord shrugged and muttered 'like a band aid' to himself before throwing open the lid of the casket.

Twilight could swear she felt the wood of the chair arms crack under her fingers. She was pretty sure she heard a cry from either Fluttershy or Rarity. Maybe both. But she couldn't be sure because all she could focus on were the bones in the coffin. Well, the bones and something else. Something that was pulsating with insane levels of chaos magic.

Discord's fruitcake.

"What is that?"

Discord regarded the open coffin for a moment before answering Applejack's question.

"The most basic description would be an egg," he stated casually. He stretched out one arm and the writhing fruitcake floated up to hover over the casket. "And now it's ready to hatch. Twilight? I'll need YOU for this."

Discord held his other hand out toward her, almost making the alicorn jump.

"I'm not sure I like this, Discord. You still haven't..."

"Twilight," the draconequus snapped, cutting her off. "It's already done. This is happening with or without us. I, however, would like to do it right. And for that, I'll need you."

For a brief moment, Twilight hesitated. Discord was being vague, as usual. That was nothing new. But this involved Pinkie and that meant EVERYTHING to Twilight. Still, all the uncertainties could be boiled down to just one question.

Did she trust Discord?

Slowly but steadily, Twilight rose from her seat and approached the draconequus. She thought she caught a genuine smile cross Discord's face, but it was gone before she could say for sure.

"Your left hand, please."

The pulses of chaos magic from the fruitcake had been getting stronger ever since it started floating. Now it was so strong that it was actually kicking up wind in the chamber. Discord had to shout over it to be heard.

Twilight's left hand barely made contact with Discord's when she felt a jolt of energy lance through her. She watched as glowing lines began to snake around her hand and up her forearm. At the same time, the bones in the casket rattled and began to float upwards. They slowly assembled themselves until they were once again formed into a whole skeleton. The fruitcake hovering where a heart would be.

Twilight wasn't dumb. She knew that this was somehow about bringing Pinkie back to life. But all that chaos magic; this massive energy expenditure; this was something more.

"Discord," she shouted over the roaring wind and violent pulses. "What is this? What are you doing?"

The skeleton's right hand was now gripped in Discord's as muscles and sinew began to grow up around the bones. The draconequus turned his head to look back at the purple alicorn.

"I'm going on holiday, Twilight," he shouted, his voice giddy with excitement. "Did you really think I'd leave you without a Chaos Lord?"

Twilight's eyes went wide, but she was immediately distracted by a sound from the skinless figure across from her. No sooner had the last bits of muscle finished growing than the figure opened its mouth wide and sucked in a long, shuddering gasp of air. It's eye sockets lit up with concentrated chaos energy. It spread from the eyes, covering the entire body and steadily getting brighter until it finally dissipated in a final flash.

Across from Twilight, her right hand still held in Discord's, was Pinkie Pie. Or at least, it was mostly Pinkie. Her left arm now faded into crocodile-like skin at the shoulder; wicked looking claws on the fingers. Her right leg ended in something that looked like a paw more than a foot. Her back was partly snakeskin, starting on the back of her neck and flowing down over her shoulder blades to connect to the tail that sprouted from just above her rear. Two horns grew from the curly mass of her hair. A curled ram's horn on the left and a jagged antler on the right.

One blue eye and one of deep amber blinked open. She looked around the room in a daze, but quickly settled on Twilight. And when they did.... yes, that smile was all Pinkie. It was such a welcome sight that Twilight could almost ignore the multiple rows of shark teeth that now made up that smile.

"And now one last little matter," Discord said, drawing Twilight's gaze away from her resurrected friend's face.

The draconequus brought Twilight's left hand together with Pinkie's right. The alicorn suddenly noticed that Pinkie's hand and forearm had the same glowing pattern that had been etched into her own. The lines flared briefly as their hands touched and then faded to black, leaving matching tattoos on the two friends' arms.

"Perfect!" Discord clapped his hands again as he stepped back, a Bureau uniform popping into existence on Pinkie's previously bare form. "Now I'm sure you two would love to catch up, but I must talk to Twilight privately for a moment. Perhaps the rest of you could show Pinkie around for a bit? Let her know what she's missed?"

His question was enough to snap everyone out of their initial shock and the other friends rushed over to embrace the newly born draconequus. They laughed, some cried a bit, Pinkie thoroughly enjoyed waving her hands through Applejack and Rarity.

"Yes, yes. Out now. Give her the full tour. Don't call us, we'll call you."

Discord ushered them out of the room, but Rainbow Dash stopped at the restored doorway.

"I'm happy you're back Pinkie," she said warmly before turning to Discord, her face falling into a scowl. "But we WILL talk about this later."

"Rainbow," Fluttershy said softly, placing a calming hand on her fellow elemental's arm. "He DID bring Pinkie Pie back to life."

"And I'm grateful for that. But do you think he really had to do it like this? Being secretive about it? Upsetting everybody? He could have done all this without bringing Pinkie's... corpse in here for all to see. This isn't a game, Discord, it's our lives. And I'm gonna make sure you remember that."

The Chaos Lord remained silent during Rainbow Dash's tirade. He didn't look sorry, but he also wasn't showing his usual smugness as he stared back at the pegasus. It was Pinkie who finally broke the silence.

"Aw c'mon Dashie. It's all good now. How about you guys show me what everyone's been up to. I want Discord to finish up with Twilight so we can really get this reunion started."

Rainbow relented to her friend's happy coaxing. The group left the conference room and headed off down the hall. Discord watched them go for a moment before closing the door after them.

"Why DID you do it like this?"

The draconequus turned at Twilight's question.

"You know us villains. Always looking to shock the senses and tug at the heartstrings."

He gave his usual flippant grin, but the alicorn wasn't taking the bait.

"You push and push to see how far you can go, but you're not cruel. Not without a reason. So why?"

Discord seemed to ponder before answering.

"Because Rainbow Dash was right," he finally said, voice free of any mocking note. "This isn't a game. You all needed to see this with your own eyes. You needed to fully understand just what I've done here. You needed a reminder that this isn't some prank I'm pulling. Not some magical doppelganger that I conjured up out of thin air. You needed to know for certain that this is, was, and will always be Pinkamena Diane Pie."

"Because she's different now." Twilight said it as a statement, not a question. All her friends had changed over the years. Some good, some bad, and some simply different. She herself had changed. Everything did. And now Pinkie had changed.

"Becoming a draconequus; a Chaos Lord... is only the beginning," Discord continued. "It can be hard to keep focus. When the universe and beyond is at your fingertips, the smaller details can be easy to forget. Little things like time, mortality, consequences... what is one small, finite life in the face of vast, limitless... EVERYTHING?"

"You're worried she'll turn out like you. Like you were before."

Twilight got so few insights into Discord's mentality. Even this small admission was eye-opening. A few precious puzzle pieces falling into place.

"Not really," he continued. "She's got a massive head start on that front. You and the others are already so important to her, that I doubt she'd ever get as bad as that."

"Is that why you were 'as bad as that'?" Twilight asked. "Because nothing was important to you?"

"Most of it was because I'm selfish," he answered flippantly before growing more serious again. "But partly, yes. With little effort I could look through the multiverse and find an infinite number of the same person. I could find you a Twilight Sparkle who was the saintly-est being you could hope to meet. I could also find you one who was the cruelest and most depraved of villains. What did it matter if I ruined the life of this one, tiny, insignificant Twilight Sparkle?"

"But now it does matter. Because of Fluttershy?"

Discord nodded as he snapped the room back into it's usual state and took a seat at the conference table.

"She was the first," he said. "It was suddenly like... I hadn't just disappointed A Fluttershy. I had disappointed THIS Fluttershy. MY Fluttershy. After that it just snowballed. A little while after your first encounter with Tirek, I realized that this wasn't just one little dimension among the rest. It was MY dimension. My home."

"Discord..." Twilight started to say something, but couldn't find the words.

"Yes, I know. Disgusting, isn't it," Discord sighed, slipping back into his usual demeanor. "Just so you know, I shall never forgive you."

"I'll try and live with the guilt," Twilight said with a wry smile.

"But enough of this. We were talking about Pinkie," Discord huffed, standing again and lifting Twilight's marked arm. "THIS is an inhibitor sigil. Pinkie's natural kindness and your close friendship should be enough to keep anything too serious from happening. If not, there's the sigil."

"It inhibits her magic? Is that even possible?"

Magic had its rules and structures. And when something had rules, you could shape and control it. Chaos magic had no rules. It seemed to operate on it's own ever shifting non-logic. It made controlling or containing it almost impossible.

"Normally, no," Discord admitted. "But forming it during her resurrection and transformation allowed me to embed it into her very essence. Right now she's operating at a little more than half power. Less a Chaos Lord and more a Chaos Mayor, if you will."

"But why do I need to have one?" Twilight asked.

"Firstly because a sigil needs to be tied to someone or something with will enough to power it. Left on its own, it'll eventually fray and dissipate. Secondly because just in case you DO need a fully powered Chaos Lord, your sigil lets you unlock hers."

He held her arm out before her, tracing the pattern in the air just above where it appeared on her skin.

"Trace the pattern with your fingers," the draconequus said as he demonstrated. "That'll unlock the inhibitor and give her full access to her powers. Trace it again to lock the inhibitor and return her to partial power."

Twilight nodded in understanding, but was still confused by something.

"Discord, I appreciate the precautions, but wouldn't it be better if you were here to teach Pinkie? Why take a holiday now?"

The Chaos Lord looked uncomfortable.

"You see, Twilight... a newly born draconequus can get a little... giddy while they're getting used to their abilities. And you know that my self-control isn't always the best. Frankly, I don't trust myself to not get caught up in her enthusiasm and... get a bit carried away."

Twilight thought back to what Discord and Pinkie would sometimes get up to in the past. Adding a second source of infinite chaos magic.... well, Twilight could understand his trepidation.

Taking a deep breath, the alicorn princess suddenly became aware of how tense she still was. Flopping down in a chair, Twilight took a second to calm herself.

"I realize I've dumped a lot on you," Discord said, making a valiant effort to sound apologetic.

"It's fine, Discord," Twilight chuckled softly. "All in all you were right. This is good news. Pinkie's back and we're all together again. It's just a lot to process. Discord?"

Twilight called his name as if something had just occurred to her.

"Yes?"

"What about the Elements of Harmony? How can we still use Harmony magic when one of us is a Chaos Lord?"

Discord gave her a strange look before answering her question with one of his own.

"Twilight, what is the opposite of Chaos?"

The purple alicorn suddenly felt like a student about to be chastised by a professor, but she answered anyway.

"Harmony?"

Discord shook his head.

"No Twilight," he said. "The opposite of Chaos is Order. Both are extremes of the same spectrum. Chaos without restraint is cruel. Order without exception is oppressive. Harmony is the balance between the two. Would you have EVER called Pinkie an orderly pony? Hell, would you have ever called her a particularly HARMONIOUS pony?"

Twilight couldn't deny that Pinkie had never fit into the rules and expectations of an orderly universe. In fact, she had to admit that one of the best ways to describe the party planner was... well... chaotic.

"Harmony magic doesn't just leave," Discord continued. "Once it's part of you, not even death can take it away. I suspect that's why the farmer was able to force her way back from the astral plane. And after all my planning too."

"Planning?" Twilight raised an eyebrow.

"My dear Twilight, did you really think I would've let my beloved Fluttershy and her friends succumb to mortality so easily? No, I had big plans for you all. As an alicorn, you were taken care of already, but the others... oh, the possibilities. Pinkie was prime draconequus material from the jump. For Rarity, I thought perhaps a vampire. There are several excellent strains I could have plucked from the multiverse. The farmer could've been a golem or maybe one of the immortal beast-men. Making Rainbow Dash a zombie could have been most amusing. But I doubt Fluttershy would've found it funny, so probably some type of fey or sprite."

"And Fluttershy?" Twilight was caught between stunned laughter and numb shock.

"Only the best for dear Fluttershy," Discord answered. His voice was full of whimsy and wonder as he talked about his ideas. "Well, second best, anyway. Sadly, the very traits I adore about her would make her a terrible draconequus. No, there are some dimensions where it's possible to tap into divine energies. It would have taken some real work, but 'Goddess Fluttershy' would surely be worth the effort. But of course, none of that was necessary as it turns out."

He gave a sigh that was full of bittersweet nostalgia.

"Discord...," Twilight shook her head, trying to wrap her mind around what she'd just heard. "You were going to pull energy and magic from the multiverse? The energy expenditure to bring it over and make it compatible with our resonance... it's mind boggling!"

"Yes, well, I may have had to drain a star or two. But I would have made sure nobody was using them."

Discord merely shrugged, seeming amused by Twilight's shock.

"Just to keep us alive?"

"Of course," Discord replied. "Your little group of do-gooders are the first real friends I've ever had. Like I said before, I'm a selfish being, Twilight. Always have been. I didn't WANT to simply let you go, so I wasn't going to."

Twilight had known Discord for over two centuries and truly considered him to be one of her best friends. Yet she could count on one hand how many times she'd hugged him. Today made one more.

Discord, as usual, seemed unsure of how to react. He managed a couple awkward pats on her back before extracting himself from the embrace. Twilight simply smiled. That was how hugging Discord always went.

"Yes, well... I think that covers everything."

The draconequus grabbed the front of his ragged, brown suit and ripped it away in one motion. Underneath he wore a pair of shorts and a bright red, button-down shirt with white palm trees all over it. A large suitcase poofed into existence by his side as he donned a pair of mirrored sunglasses and a tan bucket hat.

"I hate long goodbyes," Discord said, picking up the suitcase. "So I think I'll just slip away now. Good luck and all that. Have fun. If you can slip it into your schedule."

"Goodbye, Discord," Twilight replied, unable to keep the smile off her face. "Don't stay away too long. Believe it or not, I think I may actually miss you."

Discord gave one last, genuine smile. Then he shot her a cocky little salute, opened his suitcase and hopped inside. The piece of luggage snapped shut and rocketed upwards, disappearing with a flash just before hitting the ceiling.

Twilight stood silently for a few moments, letting the day's events sink in and settle within her mind. That is, until a sudden voice made her jump.

"Awww, did he leave already? I was coming back to say bye."

The purple alicorn's head snapped upward, catching sight of Pinkie. The newly-born draconequus was casually walking on the conference room's ceiling, studying the area where Discord's suitcase had vanished. She quickly turned her head upward (downward?), to lock eyes with Twilight.

"Hiya, Sparky!"

Pinkie fell from the ceiling, bounced off the floor like she was filled with marshmallow, and popped up in front of her alicorn friend. Without hesitation, Pinkie enveloped Twilight in the tightest hug she could muster.

For years after, Twilight would curse herself for the split second of hesitation she had before returning the hug. It was so slight that many would have missed it. But not Pinkie. Pinkie was a connoisseur of hugs. And Twilight could feel the change in her pink friend that her hesitation caused.

The hug had been one of openness. Unbridled relief and affection at being back together with someone you love. But in the heartbeat before Twilight reciprocated the embrace, it shifted. It was still just as warm, but it lost its openess. When Pinkie pulled back, she was smiling just as much, but the alicorn felt a slight distance between them that hadn't been there before.

Twilight felt ashamed.

But what was done, was done. She would just have to fix it later.

"It's good to see you again, Pinkie."

And what Twilight's hug lacked in warmth, her statement more than made up for in sincerity.

"Well, it's not quite how I imagined us meeting again, but I'm not gonna complain," she laughed, seemingly willing to let the awkward moment pass without comment.

"I'm surprised the others let you go so soon," Twilight remarked. "I thought they'd keep you talking all afternoon."

Pinkie giggled.

"Oh, they would have. Luckily I was able to fool them with a perfect decoy-Pinkie and slip away."

(Over near the cafeteria, Rainbow Dash and the others stared at the figure in front of them that had suddenly replaced their friend when they'd happened to blink.

"Is that.... three sloths in a trench coat?")

"Slippery as always, Pinkie," Twilight laughed. "But we'd better go find them before they start to worry."

"That... is a great idea, Twilight! I left them over by the cafeteria. If we catch them there we can have our reunion party right there."

Twilight heard the slight hitch in Pinkie's reply. It was obvious the draconequus had wanted a private conversation, and the alicorn felt terrible for brushing past it. But she needed time to think. Her mind was still in overdrive and she was terrified of saying something wrong or being misunderstood. 'Just a small delay', she swore to herself.

"A party already? You've been back for less than an hour. I would've thought even YOU would need more time than that."

Twilight was teasing her friend and it gave Pinkie a chance to recover her full enthusiasm.

"Hey, I've got Chaos magic now," the pink party planner said proudly. "I can have a party ready to go like that."

With the last word, Pinkie snapped her fingers and a balloon hat appeared on her head. Laughing happily, she grabbed her friend's hand and pulled her toward the doorway. Twilight let herself be towed along, but paused just before they left the room.

"Pinkie," she said curiously. "How did you know Discord would put a fruitcake in your coffin?"

It was a question that had nagged her on and off for years. Pinkie, in turn, looked baffled for a moment before understanding dawned on her face.

"Oh, that," she laughed. "Well, me and Discord were talking once about my funeral and he said that he always thought coffins would be more comfortable with carpets."

Pinkie smiled brightly as if that explained everything.

"Carpets?"

Twilight could have also asked why they'd been discussing Pinkie's funeral, but the carpet thing stood out to her more.

"Yeah, you know," the draconequus replied as though explaining something obvious. "Carpet, rug. Rug, wool. Wool, sheep. Sheep, wolf. Wolf, pack. Pack, case. Case, trunk. Trunk, tree. Tree, fruit. Fruit, cake. Fruitcake!"

Twilight stared at her for a few moments before shrugging.

"Oh yes. Of course."

The two laughed and ran off to find their friends. While completely nonsensical, Pinkie's answer had actually reassured Twilight a bit. Despite her new physiology, Pinkie seemed just the same in most other ways. And with all her friends now back with her, she felt that life couldn't get much better.

It was a happy thought. But later Twilight would reflect on how things were rarely that easy. In truth, in less than five years there would be a rift between their group. And beyond that, one of the greatest trials that Twilight and the Bureau would ever go through.

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Excerpt from Bureau of Harmony file #872: The Desolated Realm

Dimension 562X-23A was discovered during the third wave of dimensional sweeps. It was first thought that the magic from that realm had become toxic and destroyed all life. Further study proved that the magical energies' self-perpetuating qualities had been increased to super high levels.

But instead of using its own energies, this magic simply replaced material and energy that was already there. Atmosphere, energy, light... all was converted into pure arcane power. Some inert material and minerals still remained, but even that was eaten away in parts.

Study of these remains suggest that the magical catastrophe may have been a result of that dimension's own lifeforms. No concrete proof has been discovered, but machines and vehicles of war are found often and all contain experimental magical equipment.

Luckily, the magic's consuming nature seems to have died out. Future study is still to be performed under Safety Level 10 regulations.