> Discord's Heir
>  by Forum Explorer
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> Prologue 
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Well that was stupid. What was? Okay so what do you do when a being of ultimate power and trickery offers you his powers? If you are sane you generally should say no. Naturally I jumped at the chance and next thing I know I'm floating in a featureless black void. Well at least I can still hear myself speak. So I guess I'll recap the story for myself. Not like I've got anything better to do right now.

It was a weird day right from the start. First I slept in after having a bizarre dream where ninja coated ponies were chasing me through a storm of fish which exploded into confetti at the nearest touch. What do I mean by ninja coated ponies? I mean that when I'd kill them they would crack open and ponies would pour out of them. About a dozen to a ninja. Anyways after I woke up I rushed off to work in order to not be late. I hadn't put on my seat belt in my rush so when I got in a car accident I was launched through the window into the most awesome moment of my life. I actually cleared the other car completely, hit the ground, and rolled to my feet in one smooth motion. Still hurt though. After phoning work and using the car accident to explain my absence (and to take a free week off as well) I returned home after a helpful stranger gave me a ride. And their life story as well. I kinda forgot what they told me though. Not really important anyways. So where was I? Oh yes, I just returned home when I suddenly blacked out. Kinda. Really it was more like I blacked in. Okay that isn't a thing, but really I didn't feel like I had lost consciousness but rather the reverse. So basically it was waking up to blackness. I could still feel the floor around me and smell the garbage I had yet to take out, so I knew I hadn't physically gone anywhere. 

Within the darkness I saw and heard words appeared. It also responded to my speech. The conversation went sorta like this:

“Greeting human. You may not know me but I am Discord, Spirit of Chaos and Disharmony!”

“Discord? What? How can what? Seriously what is going on?”

“Focus human! I'm speaking to you from another dimension and I have a deal to offer you!” 

“Hold on a second here.” I took a deep breath and tried to calm down. “Alright. How on Earth are you talking to me? I thought you were sealed into stone by the Elements of Harmony?” 

“So you know about that huh? I see I see.” Discord chuckled “That's actually the reason I'm talking to you right now. Let me ask you something; do you know how long I ruled over Equestria the first time around?” 

“Not really. It's always been really vague where you came into the picture.” 

“Well then I guess it's time for a story. I don't know how long I ruled over Equestria either. For I shattered time itself. Past, present, and future all became a meaningless blur. I created wonderous creatures and altered the very fabric of the universe. It took an eternity for Celestia and Luna to defeat me. Even then they got lucky. The second time I came back do you know how long I lasted? A lousy two days! I didn't even manage to finish my work on one lousy village before I was turned to stone! And this time it was by ordinary ponies!”

“Ooookay. So while this truly is fasinating, I fail to see why you are talking to me right now. Or how for that matter.” 

“It's simple enough for even a human to understand. I only lasted two days and now I have thousands of years as a statue to look forward to before I can try again. For what? Another two damned days?! Unacceptable. So I think it's time I retired. And I've chosen you to take up my mantle and all of my powers that go with it.” 

“....You just chose completely at random didn't you.”

“Naturally.” 

“That's typical. You know what? Sure I agree. I'll take over causing chaos in Equestria while you do....whatever it is a retired spirit of Chaos does.”

“That's it? You're just going to accept like that? No more questions or doubts? HA! I like you kid. When you reach Equestria make your way to my statue. Do something chaotic and our bargain is complete.” 

With that the darkness consumed the last traces of physical evidence of the world around me. Now I'm just floating here in a void talking to myself. It feels like it's already been days but how can I tell? It's not like I have a watch or anything. So yeah. Just an enternity of darkness and bore- OW!

I just stubbed my toe on oblivion! I didn't even know that was possible. Hang on, what's that dry musty smell. And do I hear a squeaking noise? A stone wall? Alright I think I'm in a cave now. Guess I was wrong about Discord after all. Well perhaps. Lets keep my options open. Sure he didn't leave me in oblivion but that doesn't mean that A) I'm in Equestria or B) That I possess his powers. Wait I haven't actually completed the bargain yet have I? Regardless I've got to get out of this cave first. Okay one hand on the wall, other one stretched in front of yourself, and take nice, slow, easy steps. Alright progress! I'm getting somewhere, even if I don't know where! 

Huh this wall doesn't feel like stone at. It's too smooth and glossy, almost like glass. Wait what was that some a gleam of light? And what is that noise? Is that laughing? I think I hear some sort of shattering noise as well. Wait I think some of that light is headed towards me. WHAT THE FUCK!? That beam just blew up that whole crystal thing! What would have happened if that actually hit me? Ugh, focus me. Time to track down whatever is shooting beams of exploding death around like a maniac. Looks like it's calmed down a little, or it or rather she has started to sing. I know this song. Holy crap it's Cadance! That means the Changling invasion hasn't happened yet! I've got to hurry, this is the best chance I've got to get to Discord.

Whoo! A second cart! I thought I was going to have to walk down this long spirally track in the dark. Alright here we go! I'm building up so much speed and I can't help but think that I'm forgetting something. Frig this is fast, how did Twilight stop it again?! Oh that's right. She didn't. They crashed and flew off into the air. Well this isn't going to be pleasant. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!

Okay, still alive. Organs and bones shattered, but I'm still going. Alright I can do this. Pain is all in the mind right? Just a matter of willpower. I just need to stand up, climb up that path, sneak into Canterlot, and I'm home free. Alright on three. One, two, three. OH BURNING CELESTIA ON HER THRONE THE PAIN!!!!! MY LIFE IS AGONY! Damn path and its damn sharp gems cutting my damn hands every other step. Keep going, keep going. Think happy thoughts. I'm about to get all the powers of Discord right? I'll never have to worry about pain again once I'm out of this DAMNED MINE! 

Finally made it out of these caves. Just going to lie down and rest for a bit. That's fair right? I mean I'm not in a rush or anything. Looks like the sun is going down. Well lets check out my injuries. Huh, well that's not nearly as bad as it felt. I mean my knees and ankle is pretty busted up and I think I ripped my shoulder muscles up. My neck has seen better days, and there's a giant lump on my head. Oh and my hands are bloody and covered in dirt. So that sucks. But hey nothing broken which is a miracle in of itself. I wonder if that's just luck, Discord's protection, or just how Equestria itself operates. Well I guess I'll find out soon huh? I just need to sneak my way to the palace now. I really don't want to get caught, I don't want to find out how Celestia deals with humans. 

This is way too easy, it's starting to freak me out. Where are all the guards? Do they all have the night off or something? I mean it seems that most ponies are going to bed about now. There doesn't even seem to be any torches or lanterns at night! Well sneaking around is super easy. Ooh an actual guard! He's eating a pie and facing a wall....you know I really hope Celestia isn't actually paying these idiots. I mean come on! You guys were literally just invaded and you've already dropped your guard? Geez no wonder Celestia trusts Twilight with everything. Twilight's the only competent pony she knows! Sneaking into the castle is pretty easy too. At least the guards are actually patrolling but, okay let me show you with this guard. Here he comes and I'll just press up against the wall here, hold my breath, annnnd, boom he walks past without a clue. I literally only waited seconds before moving on because they never seem to check behind them! 

One more pathetically easy guard to elude and I'm in the gardens. Wow the reception really left a mess back here. Plus all of those craters from the bombardment of Changlings, well this is going to be a real mess to clean up. Glad its not my problem. No my problem is finding Discord in the first place. These gardens just seem to keep going and going, but I can't find any statues at all. I'm so tired, I just want to take a nap. NO! Besides almost certainly being caught, I might have a concussion. No sleepy for me. Just one last step and I'm done. Ugh, my vision keeps blurring and I keep stumbling. Either way I'm not going to last much longer. I need to find Discord fast! Ah adrenaline my old friend. That will keep my heart pumping and legs moving for a bit longer. Seriously this is taking too long. I guess I don't have a choice though.

Finally! I'm almost done! After what felt like hours of searching I've finally located Discord. Alright now I just needed to do something chaotic to seal the deal. Something chaotic....what would that be? If I over think this then I'm planning it out, and that's not chaotic at all! So if I can't plan then I guess I have to act on impulse. Time to do whatever pops into my head next! Damn it all! Why did I have to think of that! This is going to be so gross. Ew, ew, ew, ew, ew, ew! I cannot believe that I am making out with a statue! One of Discord no less! 

Oh the kiss of true love frees the beautiful prince from imprisonment! 

"Shut it Discord, looks like it worked."

Muhahahahaha so it did! Have fun kid. It's time for you to spread lots of wonderful chaos!

Huh, your statue is crumbling away again. But there's nothing remaining afterwards. I don't feel any different though except for the OVERWHELMING POWER! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! IT'S ABSOLUTLY DELICOUS! NOTHING HAS TASTED SO SWEET. Unfortunately I'm still exhausted, though I no longer hurt. Guess I'm not all-powerful. Passing out for now, but when I wake up, It's going to be a lot of fun. For me at least. 
> Chapter 1
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Princess Celestia woke with unusual joy in her heart in the early morning, well late night. Morning wouldn't come until she rose it after all. Celestia joy sprung from some simple facts; her niece was just married to a brave and good stallion, the Changling threat was gone and she could relax, and finally her beloved student was in town! It had been too long since the two of them had gotten some alone time, now using the excuse of her injury she could blow off work and spend the day with Twilight. Celestia could barely prevent her usual calm smile from becoming a full blown grin. Summoning her power she pushed the sun into the sky effortlessly. She watched her beautiful sunrise, one of her best yet. Twilight won't awaken for a few hours yet. I suppose I'll walk through the gardens before breakfast then. Celestia thought to herself as she wandered around. In only a few short steps her joy turned to fear and her wonderful plans for a day off were reduced to ash. Her most loathed enemy was gone and in his place slept a strange creature with a mat of brown hair on it's head and covered in clothes. She froze not daring to move as she inspected the strange creature. Whatever this thing was it reeked of Discord and his magic. Making a quick decision she teleported to her sister's side.

“Luna we've got a big problem! Discord's escaped and there's some strange creature in the gardens! You mobilize the guards and I'll awaken Twilight and her friends.” Celestia ordered unable to keep the panic out of her voice. 

Luna nodded as Celestia teleported away once again. Despite the distance between Twilight's tower and the throne room Celestia could hear Luna bellowing orders at her helpless guards. Celestia barged right into Twilight's room without knocking. No matter what emergency befell them how adorable Twilight was as she slept never failed to bring a smile to her face. Twilight was curled around her late night reading, a book almost the size of the pony, and drooling lightly on a corner. Regretfully Celestia gently nudged Twilight awake with her hoof.  

“Princess...good morning but why are you waking me up?” Twilight asked, groggy with sleep. “Ah! Princess Celestia! Did I oversleep? Just hang on a moment and I'll be right out!” She exclaimed as she bolted from her bed. 

“No time my faithful student.” Celestia intercepted Twilight with her magic, pulling the pony towards herself. “Discord is missing, and has likely escaped. Wake your friends while I collect the Elements of Harmony and meet me in the throne room."

“Yes Princess” 

With a reassuring smile to her student Celestia teleported away again. She appeared outside the tower that contained the Elements of Harmony. Entering inside she nodded to the new detail of guards that had been added after the Changling invasion. She hesitated briefly before unlocked the seal that protected the Elements of Harmony. With a sigh of relief she noticed that they were still present, still just to be certain she scanned them with her magic. Nothing but the pure magic of friendship was detected. Whatever Discord was up to, he didn't seem to be targeting the Elements of Harmony at all. Unfortunately it was in his nature to be unpredictable and confusing. Celestia could only power through his tricks and hope that her dear student would once again prove to be the better mare. 

By the time that Twilight had awoken all of her friends, Celestia had once again been reduced to pacing in the throne room. Celestia noticed with some well hidden displeasure that Rarity had taken the time to clean herself up. As a result Applejack was shooting the prissy pony glares when she thought Celestia wasn't looking. 

“My little ponies it seems that Discord has escaped once again. His statue lies shattered in the courtyard  with no trace of his presence.” Celestia told the group.

“No trace? Pardon me Princess, but if Discord has escaped, shouldn't we be seein a bunch of crazy stuff happenin around Equestria?” Applejack asked respectfully. 

“Yeah like the chocolate rain!” Pinkie added cheerfully.

“That's true. However Discord is unpredictable if nothing else. The only thing odd that we've found before is this strange creature sleeping where Discord's statue used to be.” Celestia explained as she began to lead the young mares through the gardens. 

“Strange creature? What kind of strange creature?” Twilight asked.

“I do not know, I have never seen it's like before. It could be an entirely new creature created by Discord, so I gathered you together first before waking it up.” Celestia admitted. “Now let Luna and I talk to the creature while the six of you remain behind to stay safe. If Luna or I give the word or if you think that we're in danger I want you to rush forward and activate the Elements. Understood?” 

A chorus of “Yes Princess” came from her ponies. Celestia nodded and moved onward. The creature lay just ahead while Luna stood above it. Up close Celestia could get a good look at the creature as it slept peacefully on the grass. It's head was currently resting on it's hands. Aside from it's ugly brown hair the creature was pretty much bald with pink skin. It was nearly the size of Discord and was nearly entirely covered in clothing, some black, but mostly dark green or blue. It's hands looked to be pretty fragile but very flexible. They were covered in scabs and dirt. Honestly if the creature didn't reek of Discord's magic she would have rushed it inside to take care of it. As it was though, Celestia preferred to take no chances. Worst case scenario she'd look a little foalish. Still there was no need to be rough. Celestia thought to herself before gently prodding the creature with a hoof. It's small, tiny really, eyes popped open in surprise. The creature sat up suddenly with an eager grin on it's face.

“Princess Celestia, right? And Luna too? It's great to finally meet the two of you!” It said happily. 

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I couldn't help but grin. The power welling up inside me felt fantastic! Now here in front of me were the two pony princesses. Sure I suppose I should be a little worried about being caught but with this much power I didn't think anything would have a chance against me. It was a little weird going from being asleep to fully alert but I put it aside as one of the many beneficial side effects of absorbing Discord's power. 

“So what can I do for you this fine morning?” I said. 

“Good morning. I hope that you wouldn't mind answering some questions?” Princess Celestia asked me politely. I was distracted though as I noticed some pink clouds beginning to appear overhead. 

“Um, sure.” I muttered as I focused on the clouds forming. 

“Please tell me what and who you are? Then tell me what happened to Discord and where he is now?” Princess Celestia asked firmly.

“Oh I'm a human. And my name is...” I trailed off as I watched the pink cloud suddenly unleash gallons of chocolate milk right atop of Celestia and Luna. I couldn't help but laugh at the expressions on their face, though their glares shut me up pretty fast.

“ITS NOT FUNNY! NOW WHERE IS DISCORD?” Luna bellowed at me. I clamped my hands over my ears from the pain. 

“Not so loud Princess!” I protested. 

“Where. Is. Discord.” Luna growled at me in a much quieter volume.

“...I don't actually know. Huh, I suppose I should have asked him where he was going.” I replied after a moments thought. Luna opened her mouth to speak but was interrupted by Celestia.

“That's alright. Now please tell us what happened exactly.” Celestia asked me kindly. 

“Well its a bit of a long story. Basically Discord retired, gave me his powers, and buzzed off someplace.” I explained gibly. The expressions of shock on their face were priceless. I saw Luna opening her mouth and quickly clamped my hands over my ears again. 

“You must be kidding” Luna said in a normal volume. I put my hands back down, a little disappointed that she had surprised me. 

“No not really. Here I'll prove it to you.” I raised my hand and snapped my fingers. A strong wave of pure sensation poured through me as the sun plunged out of the sky and the moon rose in its place. “See?”

“YOU DARE TOUCH MY MOON!?” Luna bellowed in rage before launching a bolt of magic at me. Without thinking I pulled the magic apart dissipating it harmlessly as a bunch of confetti. Luna then charged at me, trying to impale me upon her horn. I back peddled as fast as I could to avoid her. 

“I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Here just hang on and I'll fix this.” I snapped my fingers again and the world sort of blurred together in a mass of colour. I rubbed my eyes just as Luna spoke.

“You must be kidding.” she said at a normal volume. 

“No not really. Here I'll prove it to you.” I raised my hand and snapped my fingers. I wave of pure sensation poured through me as a beam of light shot out of the sun and engulfed me. The ground at my feet bloomed into beautiful flowers with gemstone petals as a gleamed with a golden radiance. I then winced and looked at Celestia fearing a similar reaction to Luna's. While she didn't look too happy with me she also didn't look like she was about to fly into a murderous rage either. 

“What did you just do?” Celestia asked through gritted teeth.  

“Err, do you mean the trick with the sun, or the part where I just travelled back in time so that Luna wouldn't go into a berserk rage at me touching the moon?” I asked sheepishly. 

“...The travling back in time thing. Don't do that again. Got it?” Celestia demanded, finally showing her anger. 

“Got it.” I replied cheerfully, never intending to actually do as I said. Nothing bad happened so why shouldn't I? Sure I know the whole trapped in a time loop thing, but that didn't happen so all is well in my books. 

“Now what did you say your name was?” Celestia continued.

“My name, hm, honestly my old name just doesn't feel, you know, right anymore. Like that's who I was not who I am? Besides a human name sounds really weird here. Basically I need a new name. Lets see here, something to do with chaos would be best...how about Chaos? Nah too exact. Change? Not namey enough. Paradox. I like the sound of that one. Yes call me Paradox!” I said. 

“Paradox then. Do you intend to bring chaos to Equestria?” Celestia demanded of me.

“Well yes. Chaos is generally a good thing in my opinion.” I answered.

“That's all I needed to know. Twilight! Get him!” Celestia said before shouting. The pony in question surrounded by her friends rushed out from around the corner, wearing the Elements of Harmony. 

“No no no no no NO! I don't want to be stone!” I shouted before unleashing my magic upon them. With a bright flash the six ponies disappeared. 

> Chapter 2
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Celestia's heart stopped. All that was left of her precious ponies was the Elements themselves, falling to the ground. 

“WHAT DID YOU DO?” Celestia screamed in rage before blasting the human with a wave of focused heat and light. Paradox was caught by surprise and sent flying across the gardens. Without hesitation Celestia sent another powerful beam of light at the beast. Paradox managed to raise his hands in defence and appeared to be catching the holding the light back. Her sister Luna then joined in with her own scream of rage, sending bolts of lightning and ice tearing across the sky to smite the human. Paradox was prepared however and deflected Luna's attacks with a strange pink umbrella. Distantly Celestia was aware that Paradox was trying to say something, but between her own renewed efforts to break through his defences and Luna beginning to summon a storm around him, his words were lost. As he summoned more and more power around himself as a defence odd things began appearing. Celestia's light beam started warping in both colour and shape. A strange thumping beat pounded through the air and ground while Luna's attacks turned into both fireworks and candy as they flew through the air. A cotton candy fog began to rise from the ground as the trees uprooted themselves and ran away. 

“ENOUGH!” Paradox finally shouted blowing both Celestia and Luna back. Before they could attempt to renew the attack, Paradox snapped his fingers causing massive hands to erupt from the palace walls and hold the two alicorns in place. Paradox stalked forward, half his face blackened and burned from Celestia's initial attack. As he walked the charred wound fell away into the ground leaving only perfect pink skin behind. “Now as you didn't give me a chance to say; Twilight and her friends are fine. I merely sent them elsewhere so they couldn't turn me into stone!” He hissed. 

“Where did you send them? Tell me!” Celestia demanded angrily, struggling against her bonds. Her horn lit up again as she prepared to teleport out. 

“Don't even try it Celestia. Make one move and I swear I will hit you with this pie so hard, you'll be smelling apples for a week!” Paradox threatened pulling a large pie out of nowhere. “Now why should I tell you where I sent them? So you can bring them back and get on with the petrification? How stupid do you really think I am? I don't know how Discord did things but chaos is under new management and I'm going to do things my way!” Paradox added on. 

Luna suddenly burst our her rock prison, her strong body proving more then enough to free herself. Slamming a hoof on a flying piece of debris she sent it flying towards Paradox. The rock lit aflame as it flew but Paradox merely caught it in one of his hands. In retaliation he sent his pie rocketing directly into Luna's face. Luna collapsed on the ground as Paradox dropped the rock and winced in pain. Celestia took the opportunity to teleport behind Paradox and smite him with an incredibly powerful blast of heat directly from the sun itself. The ground turned to glass at his feet, yet Paradox himself stood unharmed. 

“You are far too predictable Princess!” Paradox snarled as he snapped his fingers yet again. This time the grass underneath of Celestia transformed into a snake made of emeralds and jade. Biting Celestia on the neck, it quickly sprouted wings of golden light and flew away. Celestia stumbled as the powerful poison already started to knock her unconscious. 

“What did you do to me?” Celestia said with a groan as her vision blurred and darkened. 

“I'm not actually sure, but you should survive at least. Now hurry up and go to sleep so I can get to work spreading chaos.” Paradox said shrugging. 

Celestia desperately tried to summon some more magic to teleport herself to safety, but the effort only sped up her descent into an unconscious oblivion. 

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Twilight appeared in darkness the smell of musty old books filling her nose. She quickly activated her horn, creating a steady glow of light to illuminate her surroundings. As she thought she was surrounded by books. Each book was neatly stacked on one of many gigantic bookshelves and was bound in brown leather. None of the books had titles or any distinguishing appearances from any of the other books. As tempted as she was to start reading, Twilight knew that this wasn't the time. She needed to track down her friends and get back to Celestia who hopefully had her missing Element. Looking around there wasn't really any distinguishing marks so she chose a random direction and began walking. Before too long she saw a light in the distance. Hoping it was a way out Twilight galloped over to it. When she reached the light however she discovered it to be nothing more then a spotlight hanging over a pony sized crystal ball. Twilight took another look around hoping that here there would be something interesting to see. But no. There were only more unadorned books neatly stacked inside their bookshelves. Twilight gritted her teeth frustration and prepared to move on.

“Hey there Twilight.  How do you like it?” Paradox appeared right in front of Twilight. 

“Paradox! Where is this place? And where are my friends?” Twilight growled in reply. 

“This place is what I like to call the Chamber of Past, Present, and Future! It's my own creation.” Paradox said proudly.

“Yes it's very nice. Now where's the exit?” Twilight snarked back. 

“Now now Twilight don't be rude. I put a lot of effort into making this place for you. So sit down and listen to me for a bit.” 

Twilight sighed and rolled her eyes. I might as well take a break. Hopefully this won't be a total waste of time. The Princess is counting on me after all! She thought to herself as she sat on the ground. 

“I'm sure you've noticed the sheer number of books by now. The reason for their numbers is that each book contains one of the many possible futures that exist for Equestria. Open them up and read through to witness endless possibilities! They do contain every possible future, so there is no guarantee that what you read will actually come to pass.” Paradox boasted. Twilight looked around with fresh insight. The sheer possibilities ran through her mind and she wanted to take down a book then and there and start reading. She restrained herself though, reminding herself that her and her friends still needed to defeat Paradox. 

“Where are my friends Paradox? Trapped somewhere within this library as well?” Twilight asked bravely 

“Not at all! You didn't think I would be so boring as to send you all to the same place now did you? As for where they are you can discover that yourself. For that crystal orb back there will show you anything that is happening or has happened. Or to put it another way, it shows the Past and Present. See the Chamber of Past, Present and Future! Well Futures really. But that doesn't roll off the tongue.” Paradox babbled. Twilight ignored him and rushed back to the orb. Laying down on the plush pillow Twilight stared deep into the orb's depths. 

“Show me my friends!” Twilight commanded the orb. It obliged, it's once dark surface filling with colour and light. A dark line ran down the crystal splitting the picture into four different ones. In one picture she saw Applejack wandering around Ponyville. In another Rarity was dressed in crown and royal gown. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash stood atop the clouds in one more. Finally Pinkie Pie was bouncing happily through a jungle before suddenly stopping and waving at Twilight. “Huh? How did she do that?” Twilight asked.

“I have no idea...” Paradox answered equally as confused. Though he seemed happy about it for some reason. “Anyways Twilight. I thought I should warn you that using that orb is highly addictive. Nothing to say? Alright then. MWUHUAHHAHAHAHAHAHA! Hmm, need to work on that laugh.” Paradox continued before disappearing once more with a snap of his fingers. 

Twilight ignored him in order to continue staring into the orb, she would occasionally demand to see something new. Other then that though she didn't move at all. 

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Applejack slowly walked through Ponyville peering at everything suspiciously. Everything seemed perfectly normal but why? Last time Discord literally turned this place upside down. Now this new fella Paradox hadn't done anything but send her home. That and take her Element away. I have no idea how I'm going to get my Element back but that no good rapscallion is going to regret every laying his hands on it! Applejack thought to herself fiercely as she made her way towards Surgercube Corner. When she arrived she found things to be exactly as she thought they would. Mr. and Mrs. Cake were behind the corner selling food as always. Pinkie Pie however was no where to be found. 

“Oh Applejack, how lovely to see you. How was the wedding? We heard there was an attack by an army of Changlings!” Mrs. Cake greeted Applejack. 

“The wedding was fine. That's not the problem though. Have either of y'all seen Pinkie Pie around? I need her help.” Applejack replied.

“No we haven't seen her. Shouldn't she be with you? Or did she take a late night train back to Ponyville?” Mrs. Cake said.

“That's not it. Day after the wedding this weird fella callin himself Paradox shows up. Says he's Discord's heir or some such nonsense. Problem is that he's got the power to back up his claim. When we tried to zap him with the Elements he teleported us away. Ah just appeared on Sweet Apple Achres a few moments ago and now I'm lookin to see if any of mah friends showed up as well.” Applejack explained looking closely to see how Mrs. Cake would react. 

“Oh my! Well what should we do? You don't think he's going to attack Ponyville like Discord did do you?” Mrs. Cake asked, surprise and fear evident in her voice. 

“Ah don't rightly know Mrs. Cake. Ah hope not but we'd best be prepared anyways.” Applejack replied, relaxing somewhat. It seemed like Mrs. Cake was acting normally. Nopony else seemed to be acting oddly either. I guess he hasn't bothered messing with Ponyville yet. Applejack thought as she ate a freshly bought muffin. Applejack headed towards Twilight's library next, hoping that the powerful unicorn had managed to return home at least. Doubt it though. If that mare did manage to escape wherever Paradox sent her, she'd have run straight to the Princess. Applejack thought as she knocked on the library's door. 

“Come in!” Shouted a definably male, not-Spike voice. 

Applejack narrowed her eyes. That voice almost sounded like...well she'd see soon enough. Pushing the door open, Applejack entered the dark library. Inside only a single lantern shed light. 

“Anypony home?” Applejack shouted.

“No pony is home.” The voice chuckled back. 

“You ain't very subtle are you Paradox?” Applejack said.

“I don't know what you're talking about.” The voice said in mock surprise. “If you want me to answer your questions then come and find me.”  

“Ah'm not fallin for such a cheap trick. You can just stay in here and rot if that's what you want but Ah'm not playin your stupid game!” Applejack shouted back.

“Do what you want Applejack, if you want answers you'll know where to find me.” The voice replied as Applejack slammed the door shut. 

Applejack doubted she would find any of her friends in Ponyville but just in case she visited each of their houses in turn. Well except for Rainbow Dash's house for obvious reasons. At Rarity's house, Applejack found Sweetie Bell crying alone in her bedroom. It seems that her parents had gone away on another vacation. Since they expected Rarity to be back by now they had already left. Sweetie Bell was worried that the changelings had stolen Rarity away and that was why she was late. Applejack reassured the little filly that everything would be alright and insisted that until Rarity got home that Sweetie Bell stay over at Sweet Apple Acres. Over at Fluttershy's cottage, Angel rushed out to greet Applejack. Fluttershy had placed him in charge of the animals while she was gone. While they still had plenty of food, the animals were starting to get worried about Fluttershy. Angel mimed this all out to Applejack who confessed that she was worried about Fluttershy and the rest of her friends as well. Having confirmed that all of her friends were still gone Applejack headed home. Once there she told her family (and Sweetie Bell) about what had happened today. 

“Ah'm not sure what Paradox is up to. But I reckon we should stay away from the library for now. In the mornin Ah'll catch the train to Canterlot and tell the Princess that Ah'm okay and where Paradox is. She'll know what to do for sure.” Applejack said to her family's nods. 

“Ah'm kinda worried sis. What if Paradox ambushes you before you can reach the Princess?” Applebloom piped up. 

“Don't you worry none sugercube. Ah can handle myself better then anypony in Equestria! Paradox won't have a chance of stopping me.” Applejack bragged. 

The conversation turned to small talk. Paradox wasn't disrupting life yet but they'd need to make plans to arrange for Applejack's absence. Even though it wasn't harvest season there was a lot of work to be done that Applejack would not be there to perform. After dinner finished they cleaned up and Applejack went to bed choosing to get an early nights sleep after all the the excitement in the last few days. The next morning Applejack woke up at the crack of dawn as usual. The train wouldn't leave for a few hours yet, so Applejack took her time eating breakfast and even performed a few quick chores. Grabbing some rope and some apples in case of emergencies Applejack set off. Applejack reached the  train station without incident, pausing only to share the news with the Carrot family. A short wait later and the train pulled up, right on time. 

“Good luck Applejack!” Shouted Applebloom from behind. 

“Applebloom! Why did ya follow me? Ah let you sleep in for a reason.” Applejack replied with mock anger. 

“And let mah big sister go off without even sayin goodbye? Not a chance.” Applebloom said rushing forward and hugging Applejack. 

“Aww, thanks sis.” Applejack ruffled Applebloom's hair. 

“You give Paradox a kick for me.” Applebloom said. “And good luck.” 

“Ah'll be back before ya know it.” Applejack promised as she moved to board the train. As her hoof went to land on the train though she inexplicably found her self landing on the station's floor. “What the?” Applejack exclaimed. Turning around she tried to board the train again but every time without fail she would just end up as if she had just left the train. 

“What's goin on?” Applebloom said in worry. 

“Ah don't know! But I bet Paradox is behind it somehow. If he thinks that stoppin me from takin the train is enough to stop me then he's a bigger fool then he look!” Applejack said. 

“What are ya goin do now?” Applebloom asked.

“Ah'm goin run to Canterlot! There's no other choice and the Princess needs mah help!” 

Applebloom cheered as Applejack ran off. She slowed down a little when she turned the corner though. It was a long run to Canterlot and there was no sense in tiring herself out now. She kept up a steady pace til she hid the edge of Ponyville. There she experienced much the same thing as what happened at the train station. Every time she left Ponyville, she somehow found herself headed back in. Even running at full speed got the same result. No matter what direction or speed she left at, she was always pointed back towards home without fail. 

“Dang it all! How is he even doin this?” Applejack swore and threw her hat to the ground. 

“I told you, if you want answers you'll know where to find me.” A laughing voice answered her. 

“Paradox! Do ya think this is funny?” Applejack shouted. The voice just laughed once more and faded away. Applejack growled once before picked her hat off the ground. Looking up she noticed a familiar grey pegasus flying overhead. 

“Hey Derpy! Come down here a second.” Applejack called. 

“Good morning Applejack, what can I help you with?” Derpy said with a smile as carefully landed in front of Applejack. 

“Ah want to see somethin. Can ya just walk a few meters that way?” Applejack asked. Derpy shrugged and smiled. She quickly trotted over in the direction Applejack had pointed. She left Ponyville without incident. “Ah see. It's just me then.” Applejack muttered to herself. “Ah need ah favour Derpy! Can ya take a message to the Princess for me?” 

“Sure thing Applejack!” Derpy said saluting.

“Alright. Ya just need to tell her that Ah'm in Ponyville, Ah've lost mah Element, and that Ah'm trapped in Ponyville somehow. Ya got that?” Applejack asked. Derpy just nodded and took off. Applejack watched her fly away. “Ah hope that the Princess knows what to do about this.” Applejack said under her breath. “In the meantime Ah've got a library to explore.” 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rainbow Dash appeared high in the sky. Far below her she could see a snow covered ground while in the distance huge mountains dominated the horizon. A small squeak broke her concentration. Looking to her side she noticed Fluttershy freezing up in panic and beginning to fall. 

“Hang on Fluttershy!” Rainbow Dash shouted as she began to dive. She effortlessly built up speed, quickly catching up to the yellow pony and caught her in her hooves. “Got you.” Rainbow Dash whispered with a smile before leaning in and giving Fluttershy a quick kiss. The shy pegasus smiled and relaxed in Rainbow Dash's grip. Spotting a nearby cloud Rainbow Dash flew over to it and gently placed Fluttershy on it before landing herself. “Where do you think we are?” Rainbow Dash asked, looking down at the ground. 

“I don't know. Paradox sent us somewhere far away though.” Fluttershy replied steeling herself to take a look herself. When she did she earned a smile from her rainbow maned companion. 

“Isn't it supposed to be spring? Why is there a bunch of snow on the ground?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“I think the lands to the far north have longer winters.” Fluttershy offered.

“But why? Do they just like that cold?” Rainbow Dash asked. Fluttershy just shrugged in reply. “North of Equestria huh? Yeah! Look those must be the whatchamacallit mountains. We just keep flying that way and we'll be back in Equestria in no time!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. Fluttershy nodded and started to shiver. The wind up this high was very cold and the even the slightest breeze was cutting away their heat. Rainbow Dash didn't notice however. She was too pumped up with adrenaline to care. “Alright lets start with a nice easy glide off this cloud. Can you handle that pal?” Rainbow Dash asked laying a comforting hoof over Fluttershy's. Fluttershy smiled and bravely nodded, trying to keep her shivering under control. 

They launched themselves from the cloud and began to glide. Fluttershy focused on Rainbow Dash in order to ignore the height and the cold. Her beautiful untamed mane, her peerless confidence, and how she always seemed to be there when Fluttershy needed help. Sure sometimes Rainbow Dash would push her too far, too fast, but she always backed off when Fluttershy insisted and she never never took advantage of Fluttershy's kindness. As they glided Rainbow Dash would occasionally fall back a bit to check on Fluttershy but most of the time Rainbow Dash kept the lead in order to reduce drag for the weaker pegasus.  Fluttershy's day-dreaming allowed her to keep going for a couple of hours but finally her body managed to overpower her mental barriers and bombarded her with a series of aches and pain. Her shivers now out of control she began to jerk and dip down towards the ground. She tried to call for Rainbow Dash's help but could only manage a small squeak through her parched throat. 

Luckily enough Rainbow Dash noticed Fluttershy's descent anyways. She swooped down and steadied Fluttershy. No clouds were nearby so Rainbow Dash merely guided Fluttershy to the ground and helped with the landing. As soon as Fluttershy touched the snow she fell over utterly exhausted. Rainbow Dash landed easily and quickly realized just how cold she actually was. She was more used to it then Fluttershy but the high cold air had taken it's toll on her as well. 

“Are you okay Flutters?” Rainbow Dash asked, nudging Fluttershy with her head. “Holy Celestia! You're frozen solid! C'mere.” Rainbow Dash exclaimed before pulling Fluttershy into a tight embrace. For extra warmth Rainbow Dash wrapped Fluttershy in her wings. In a few minutes, Fluttershy's shuddering had gotten better. Now Rainbow Dash was feeling the effects of the cold and had started to shiver as well. The temperature began to drop even more as the sun sank lower into the sky.  “W-we need to get someplace warm.” Rainbow Dash said with chattering teeth. 

“Y-yes, I'll ask and see if any of the animals around can help us.” Fluttershy said, reluctantly pulling out of Rainbow Dash's embrace. The two ponies trotted off into the woods. Fluttershy tried singing, but no birds answered in kind. Rainbow Dash tried to spot any animals from the air but if they were present, the thick forest prevented them from being seen. As they searched they continued to move south but it was clear from how heavy they were shivering that they needed to find some shelter tonight, or else. Finally Fluttershy called Rainbow Dash down from the sky. She had a large rabbit sitting in front of her. 

“H-he s-says that t-there's a c-cave nearby.” Fluttershy tried to speak through her shivers. Rainbow Dash just nodded and the pair trotted after the quick moving rabbit. A short time later they reached the cave in question. Naturally it was dark and damp but at least it was sheltered from the cold air. The two pegasi cuddled together and rested for a bit. “W-we should start a fire.” Fluttershy said. 

“Allow me.” A familiar voice said smoothly. With a snap of finger a bright green blaze lit up the cave, it's blazing heat warming the cave within minutes. 

“Paradox! What are you doing here?” Rainbow Dash shouted, springing up and flaring her wings.

“I thought I would introduce myself properly. Hello Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, my name is Paradox, nice to meet you.” Paradox replied with a smile. 

“Don't make fun of me!” Rainbow Dash warned as she prepared to charge. 

“I'm not! Really I just want to talk.” Paradox held up his hands in a calming gesture. 

“W-well what did you want to talk about?” Fluttershy said moving to Rainbow Dash's side. 

“For starters; is it true that the two of you are in a relationship?” Paradox asked. Fluttershy just squeaked while both ponies blushed bright red. “HA! I knew it!” He cheered hugging himself in glee.

“H-how did you know that?” Rainbow Dash stuttered in surprise or perhaps embarrassment. 

“Its a very long story that I don't even fully understand. So here's the extreme short version. I saw the two of you interacting and just guessed.” Paradox answered, still smiling. 

“What does that even have to do with anything?!” Rainbow Dash asked. 

“Oh right. Well that's why I sent the two of you to the same location.  It just seems wrong to separate a couple of ponies in love.” 

“Where did you send us? And where are our friends?” Fluttershy asked

“You ponies are very far north. I think they call this place the frozen wasteland but that doesn't seem right. As for your friends, they've been similarly scattered across the world. Except for Applejack. She's stuck in Ponyville.” Paradox said, confirming their earlier suspicions. 

“Why?” Fluttershy asked quietly. 

“Oh I put her there for a couple reasons. One, so that Ponyville will have somepony to take care of it. That place seems to have disasters every week. Two so that Princess Celestia will have proof that I didn't harm any of you. Three, because Applejack-” 

“That's not what she meant!” Rainbow Dash interrupted. “We want to know why you've scattered us in the first place!” 

“Oh. Isn't it obvious? Since you're all separate you can't use the Elements of Harmony to turn me into stone. I will not allow that. Ever. Nothing possible could be worse then being stuck in such a dark frozen prison. Nothing!” Paradox took a deep breath. “Anyways I've sent you all apart in order to protect myself and hopefully give myself time to prove that I don't need to be turned to stone. I mean, chaos isn't a bad thing you know. It's necessary for growth and life itself! Okay Discord didn't seem to understand that but he abused his powers. I won't and I'll show everypony that chaos isn't bad or evil!”

The two ponies just stared at him as he ranted on. Eventually he seemed to remember his audience and rubbed his head as he blushed. 

“Anyways that's not the point. The point is that the two of you can just head south and eventually you'll reach Equestria. This place is pretty dangerous but I'm sure the two of you can handle it. Just stick together and you'll be fine.” Paradox quickly explained before disappearing once more. There was a moment of silence after he left as the two ponies thought about what he had said. This silence was soon broken by a low growl as the hibernating bear woke up early. Fluttershy immediately rushed over as the bear grumbled and growled.

“Oh we didn't realize this cave was your home Mr. Bear. We're so sorry for waking you.” Fluttershy apologized sweetly. The bear grumbled some more. “I'm sorry.” Fluttershy repeated. “We promise to be quiet and will leave in the morning..” The bear mumbled something before heading back towards his rest. “How about I give you a massage to make up for it?” Fluttershy said with a smile. Flying up as the bear lied down she began to relax the long cramped muscles. Soon the bear was sleeping once again, his quiet snores barely audible over the crackle of the strange fire. 

“I suppose that's what Paradox meant.” Rainbow Dash said staring at Fluttershy. She cocked her head in response, not understanding. “I mean, taking care of that bear. If I was by myself I would have been kicked out into the cold.” 

“Oh no! I'm sure you would have been fine.” Fluttershy assured her marefriend.

“Thanks Flutters. But I couldn't have handled that bear like you did. And we've got a lot of wilderness to cover still. I'm sure your ability with animals will come in useful again before we get back to Equestria.” Rainbow Dash said with a yawn, curling up beside the fire. Fluttershy walked over and cuddled up to her. 

“Hey Rainbow?” Fluttershy asked quietly.

“Yeah?” Rainbow Dash said with a yawn.

“What do you think about Paradox?” 

“...I don't know. Can we talk about it in the morning? I'm too tired to think right now.” Rainbow Dash replied slowly.

“Alright.” Fluttershy yawned and snuggled a bit closer as Rainbow Dash spread her wings over Fluttershy. “Good night Rainbow Dash. I love you.” Fluttershy whispered.
“I love you too Fluttershy.” Rainbow Dash slurred back, already more then half-asleep. The two pegasi quickly drifted off into a sweet and restful slumber. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pinkie Pie bounced through the thick jungle bush. It's clinging vines and tall ferns did nothing to slow or impede her movement in any way. The pink mare frequently stopped to sniff at some flowers or to chatter at the nearby wildlife, invariably scaring it away. Despite nopony else being around she kept up a monologue of constant noise. 

“Well this is strange, look at all these strange plants. Ooh I wonder what this one smells like! Ouch! It bit me! Well in Equestria ponies bite you! Nomnomom. Hey tasty! Kinda like that cactus I ate in Appoloosia. That was a strange place. I mean they clearly didn't have any appreciation for music. Still everything worked out in the end. Wow! I nearly fell right in that hole. Twitchy tail! Huh? What is that anyways? Looks like some sort of bug. Aaaah! Giant bugs are falling from the sky! I'm too young to die! Hey a bird! Do you know Fluttershy Mister Bird? So big and pretty and green. Aw, where you going Mr. Bird? Hi Paradox how's it hanging, being upside down in that tree? I'm going to go chase Mr. Bird!” 

“Hey Pinkie wait a moment!” Paradox called as the pony bounced away. 

“Yes, what is it Paradox?” Pinkie said sweetly suddenly appearing from behind. Paradox let out a little yell of surprise and fell up into the air, bouncing off the branches above him. He glared at the tree irritably and the entire thing transformed briefly into sugar before falling apart in a giant white and sweet cloud. 

“I wanted to talk to you Pinkie.” Paradox said grinning with satisfaction. “You are truly an amazing pony did you know that?” 

“Well I know I make amazing cupcakes and that I remember everything about everypony but I'm not that special. Everypony else is!” She replied. 

“Honestly everything in this world is amazing. So bright and playful! But that's not what I want to talk about. I want to talk about you.” Paradox said pointing a finger at Pinkie Pie. Pinkie pretended to try and bite his finger causing him to flinch back.

“What about me? This isn't about my Pinkie Sense is it? Because when ponies try and figure that out things start to fall so I don't know what will happen when a chaos human tries. I bet the moon would fall out of the sky and Princess Luna would cry and turn into Nightmare Moon and then everything would be ruined and I'd never get to eat a cupcake again!” 

“Nothing like that. I thought I would explain what happened to you so that you're in this jungle. Basically I meant to trap you in a world of mirrors. It would have been pretty cool, but it wasn't to be. When I tried to grab onto with my magic you sorta slipped through it. And now you're here. A mysterious jungle so far away from Equestria that it isn't on the map at all.” Paradox explained with a chuckle at Pinkie's antics. 

“Oooh so I get to be an explorer? Just like Daring Do!” Pinkie ducked underneath a bush reappearing with an explorer's cap on her head. “So where to fearless leader who will inevitably betray us for gold and/or an evil artifact that will consume you?” Pinkie asked with a smile.

“What?! I'm not the leader!” Paradox protested. “I'm just here to tell you that I have no idea where this place is or anything about it! Look you ruined my mirror plan, but that's alright, I forgive you. So have fun, have an adventure, and try and find some way home. It'll be really difficult because I don't know what you are going to do. But I'm sure you'll be fine. Don't worry about your friends, they'll be fine as well.” 

“Okie-dokie-loki!” Pinkie Pie laughed and started to hop through the jungle once more, her mysterious hat disappearing as if it never existed. 

“Why didn't Discord make her his heir? Seriously she's more chaotic then I could ever hope to be.” Paradox muttered to himself with a smile before teleporting away in a cloud of soap bubbles. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Rarity awoke in absolute luxury. Her thick silken blankets glimmered with a thousand gems meant to imitate the night skies glory. A fire roared nearby filling the large bedroom with heat, even though the windows were covered in snow and darkness. Her bed was shrouded by sheer silk curtains that caused the room to be tinted a pretty pinkish shade. Upon a nearby table sat delicate bouquet of flowers filling the room with their beautiful and tasty scent. Rarity smiled sleepily before the sudden realization shocked her fully awake. This isn't my home! Where am I? Rarity thought as she tried to fight down the panic that was consuming her mind. She struggled to free herself from the thick blankets and finally broke free, falling with a thump upon the plush carpet. 

“Princess?” A voice from outside the door called. “Is everything alright?” Before Rarity could answer a small bluish-pink mare entered the room. She carried a crown and thick cape with her magic. “When you awoke you should have just called me.” The mare said casually as she gently helped Rarity stand. “It's my job to care for you after all.” She finished with a smile. 

“My apologies darling.” Rarity said by instinct. 

“Darling? What an odd thing to call your hoof maiden Princess.” The mare replied. “Why would you say that?” 

“Oh! I, ummm.” Rarity stuttered having no idea on what to say.

“What's going on here? Princess Platinum would never behave like this? Who are you and where is the Princess? Why do you look just like her? TELL ME!” The mare screamed at Rarity.

“I-I don't know! I just woke up like this!” Rarity backed up from the mare whose horn lit up in response.

“Well we'll find out the truth soon enough.” The mare said before unleashing her spell upon Rarity. She flinched and closed her eyes as the spell went off with a bright flash. “W-what? Who are you?” The mare gasped in fear. 

“Mh? I'm-” Rarity began, with her eyes still closed.

“Paradox at your service. And you must be Clover the Clever.” An all to familiar voice interrupted her. Rarity's eyes snapped open and she glared at the scene before her. Paradox held a glowing ball of magic in one hand while the stunned mare cowered before him. “You know I didn't expect you to blow your cover so quickly.” Paradox said to Rarity as he casually transformed the magic into a harmless amethyst. 

“Paradox! How dare you foalnap me to this strange place! I demand that you bring me back home immediately!” Rarity growled at Paradox, her horn beginning to glow as she lowered her head for a charge. 

“And where did you take the Princess?” Demanded the mare her horn lighting up as well.

“Ugh. Will everypony just calm down so I can explain?” Paradox glared at the two mares. Seeing as they weren't going to immediately attack he resumed talking. “Rarity I've sent you back in time and trapped you inside the body of the legendary Princess Platinum. Fulfil her role and you'll be returned to Equestria safe and sound to your boutique. Clover, right now Rarity's mind is overriding your Princesses mind. Until she's been safely returned your Princess will not be able to take any actions. It's in your own best interests to protect Rarity and aid her however you can. So best of luck to you ladies, I'm outta here.” With that Paradox disappeared in a puff of sweetly smelling smoke. The two mares were left staring at each other awkwardly. 

“Well, I suppose proper introductions are in order. My name is Rarity, it's a pleasure to meet you Miss?” Rarity said with a smile, dismissing her magic.

“Clover, My name is Clover and I am the personal hoof-maiden of Princess Platinum. Would you explain what that thing was and what's going on?” Clover replied with a forced smile.

“I'm not sure of the details honestly. That thing calls itself Paradox and claims to have taken over for Discord. It did some fancy magic and next thing I knew I was waking up in this fabulous room.” Rarity explained. 

“Discord? Who is that?” 

“How can you not have heard of Discord? He was responsible for all that chaos that plagued all of Equestria! Now it looks like its going to happen again!” Rarity said dramatically rearing up and waving her hooves about. Clover just stared at her like she was a crazy pony.

“Equestria? I've never heard of such a land, and I've studied our histories extensively.” 

Rarity just stared at Clover for a few moments, the important part of what Paradox said finally clicking in. “I need to see a mirror! Where is a mirror?” Rarity suddenly screamed.

“Princess? What's wrong?” Clover asked as Rarity continued to panic. 

“My mane! My-” Rarity gasped as she finally found what she was looking for. As she had realized her body had completely changed. Well not completely. Her coat was still a pure ivory white. However everything else was different. She stood taller, but not much, then before. Her eyes while still blue were now much darker, much more royal blue. Rarity's new mane looked like glittering strands of platnium and flowed down her head in a silvery grey waterfall. Worst of all was her cutie mark. No longer did three diamonds adorn her flank. Instead a crown of silver, gold, and lined with rubies marked her special talent. At the sight Rarity's eyes filled with tears.

“Princess? I mean Rarity? Are you alright?” Clover asked, hesitantly moving up beside Rarity. Without any warning Rarity collapsed onto Clover sobbing. 

“M-my c-cutie mark!” She wailed throwing her hooves around Clover's neck. Clover just stood there awkwardly, letting her mane get soaked by Rarity's tears. “It's different!” 

“Oh.” Clover gasped finally understanding why Rarity was so upset. Losing your cutie mark was without a doubt the worst thing that could possibly happen to a pony. “Shhh, it's okay.” she whispered rubbing Rarity's back slowly. “How about I make us some nice tea and we'll talk about it alright?” Clover continued. Rarity nodded and let go of Clover. She flopped over onto the bed sobbing into a pillow. Clover gave her a sympathetic look before leaving the room. She returned minutes later with the tea. It's soothing aroma filled the room. The time Clover was gone had also given Rarity at least a little time to recover from the shock and horror. 

“There isn't anywhere to sit and drink so we'll have to use the bed. Is that alright?” Clover asked. Rarity nodded in reply. Clover expertly poured two cups of tea and levitated one over to Rarity. She smiled her thanks and took it in her own magical field. The two ponies took a moment to enjoy the tea in peace and quiet before Clover spoke up again.

“I've been thinking and here's how I see the situation. Your mind has been plucked from your body and placed in charge of my Princess's body. This was done against your will and now both of your lives are in danger.”

“In danger, but how?” Rarity interrupted weakly.

“No interruptions please.” Clover said holding up a hoof. Rarity meekly nodded in response. “Good. Now where was I? Ah yes. Your lives are in danger because if it became public knowledge that the Princess was being possessed it's likely that you would be forcibly removed and destroyed by our magics. This would also do irreparable damage to the mind of Princess Platinum herself. As the Princess's hoof-maiden it is my responsibility to ensure that this never comes to pass. For now our best bet is to hope that Paradox was telling the truth when he said that he would return you to your body if you 'fulfil Princess Platinum's role' whatever that means. So to that end I will be teaching you how unicorn royalty is expected to act and the habits that Princess Platinum is known for. Agreed?” 

Rarity slowly sipped at her tea, taking her time to think over what Clover had told her. She nodded in satisfaction after a few minutes.

“I think that covers just about everything. However there is one more thing I should mention. I think that Paradox actually sent me into the past. I've finally remembered where I've heard your name from. In our history books they speak of a unicorn duo named Princess Platinum and Clover the Clever. The two are renowned for being two of the founding ponies who created Equestria in the first place. So in order to get home I think I need to help create Equestria first.”
> Chapter 3.Pegasi
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A small sliver of light made it's way through the dark cave before illuminating a tiny patch of ground. Slowly as the sun rose the patch of light expanded to land onto Rainbow Dash's eye. For almost a minute she ignored it but finally the light caused her to sleepily raise her head. She sneezed as she woke up and turned to look at Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash had one of her wings spread over her friend who had tucked her face into Rainbow Dash's side. Rainbow slowly tucked her wings back in and stood up.  Fluttershy yawned as her warmth started to leech away. 

“Good morning Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy said with a smile before stretching out her stiff wings. Rainbow Dash smiled back before looking to where Paradox's fire had been. Nothing but a perfectly circular hole existed there. Rainbow Dash stuck her head in for a quick look. The hole was very deep but she was pretty sure that she could a glimmer of the green fire at the bottom of the hole. Is that flame just going to keep burning? When is it going to stop? She thought to herself. Well not really my problem. She thought with a shrug before trying to pull her head out. 

“Umm, Fluttershy? My head's stuck.” Rainbow Dash called and she continued to try and pull herself free. 

“Oh dear. Here let me help.” Fluttershy's voice was muffled by the rock around Rainbow Dash. She felt a tug on her tail as Fluttershy bit down. “On fre?” Fluttershy asked through the mouthful of hair. 

“Right.” Rainbow Dash took a deep breath. “One, two, three!” Rainbow Dash pulled as hard as she could and tried to ignore the pain of Fluttershy pulling on her tail. Fluttershy couldn't provide enough force though and Rainbow Dash remained stuck.

“Hang on a second Rainbow I'll be right back.” Fluttershy called before walking away. Rainbow Dash sighed and continued to tug on her head, hoping to get free by herself. Soon she heard Fluttershy returned as well as a low growl. “You understand what to do Mr. Bear?” Fluttershy asked. A grumble answered her. “Thank you!” She chirped sweetly. Rainbow Dash felt a sharp grip on her mane and nicking the back of her neck. “Please be careful!”

“W-wait!” Rainbow Dash called. Fluttershy quickly got the bear to release Rainbow Dash. “Isn't there any other way?” Rainbow Dash yelled.

“I'm sorry, but umm, I can't think of anything can you?” Fluttershy said. Rainbow Dash thought for a few minutes. 

“Lets get this over with.” Rainbow Dash groaned and braced herself. The steel grip returned on the back of Rainbow's neck. “On thr-” A mighty yank interrupted Rainbow Dash. The force popped Rainbow Dash out and lifted her entire body off the ground for a brief moment before being released, landing on her hooves. “Ow” She gasped as she rubbed her neck and ears. 

“Oh! Rainbow are you alright?” Fluttershy rushed over to Rainbow Dash and began looking her over for injuries. “I told you to be careful Mr. Bear!” She softly scolded the beast. It pawed the ground in response. The bear yawned and looked outside before wandering off. Rainbow Dash ignored the bear in favor of stretching out her neck the best she could. “Let me help Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy said softly as she began to massage Rainbow Dash's neck. Fluttershy's skilled hooves quickly removed any stiffness and pain from Rainbow Dash as she began to work her way down Rainbow Dash's back.
“Mmm, as good as this feels we really should get a move on,” Rainbow Dash sighed, now lying on the ground. Fluttershy stopped massaging for a second and Rainbow Dash took that opportunity to get back up. “Right! Lets get going. We've got to go save Equestria after all.” 

“Okay Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy nodded her agreement.”

“Thanks for the massage.” Rainbow Dash said giving Fluttershy a quick kiss before flying out of the cave. Fluttershy trotted out less then a second later. They were greeted by an unexpected sight. Five large griffons holding nets and clubs flew up to the cave. 

“I told you I heard voices.” One of the griffons said to the largest.

“Yeah, yeah. Alright ponies! Are you going to come along peacefully or are we going to have to beat some sense into you first?”  The largest griffon said brandishing his club.

“I'd like to see you try!” Rainbow Dash shouted back, flaring her wings in preparation to fight.

“You heard her boys! Get em!” The griffon ordered. The griffons all rushed the two pegasi. One of them tossed his net at Rainbow Dash who ducked under it with contemptuous ease.  Lightly spinning on one hoof she quickly bucked the griffon in the chest. Another rushed at her side trying to hit her with his club in a powerful vertical strike. Rainbow Dash just moved slightly to the side and grabbed the griffon's talon with one hoof. Sticking out one of her lower hooves she neatly tripped the griffon allowing his momentum to send him careening into his comrade. The boss himself finally tried to take on Rainbow Dash. He also tossed his net and this time Rainbow Dash took to the skies and easily cleared it. He chased after her swinging his club wildly from side to side. Rainbow Dash dodged each blow and was literally flying circles around the large griffon, only pausing to send a quick jab into the griffon's skull. 

“Is that all you've got?” She taunted as she punched the griffon again. “I was hoping for a-” A shrill scream from Fluttershy interrupted her. Rainbow Dash's stomach plummeted at the sound. Losing her concentration she opened herself up for an easy strike and took a powerful blow to the head. She fell to the ground but quickly sprung back up and looked over to Fluttershy. Her love had been caught in a net by the two griffons that Rainbow Dash hadn't fought. Fluttershy was struggling the best she could making it difficult for the griffons to drag her. One brought his club down eliciting a yelp of pain from the bound pegasi. 

“Fluttershy!” Rainbow Dash cried out as she leaped back into the air. Her frantic flight forward was intercepted by the three griffons she had been fighting. 

“You boys get that one! We'll hold her off til you get away!” The leader shouted as Rainbow Dash tried to get around them, but every time she started to make some ground she'd immediately lose it in dodging a powerful attack from one of the three griffons. 

“Get out of my way!” She screamed as she changed tactics. Now she pounded the griffons as hard as she could with her hooves. Her three opponents changed tactics and now fought defensively, doing their best to weather the furious pegasi's attacks. Rainbow Dash could barely see Fluttershy anymore as the griffons dragged her away. Rainbow Dash redoubled her efforts and was just beginning to get past the battered griffons when a powerful roar halted the fighting. Rainbow Dash recovered first and used the distraction to finally break free and fly to Fluttershy. The sight that greeted her caused a smile to break across her face and a relived breath to escape her lungs. Fluttershy was slowly pulling herself free of the net while her two captors tried to escape the bear that had returned at Fluttershy's scream. The bear had already snapped the two griffon's clubs like dry twigs and was currently smashing the griffons into the ground with his powerful paws. Rainbow Dash ignored the griffons and just flew over to Fluttershy. She seemed to be fine, but winced when Rainbow softly poked her wing. 

Meanwhile the last three griffons had joined the fray against the bear. Seeing that Rainbow Dash was about to rejoin the fight the griffons grabbed their wounded and beat a speedy retreat. Rainbow glared at them but let them escape. She had a much more important pony to worry about. 

“How are you feeling?” Rainbow asked returning to Fluttershy's side. 

“My wing hurts every time I try and flap it.” Fluttershy couldn't help but sob in pain. “W-why were those griffins so mean? We didn't do anything wrong!” 

“Shhh, it's alright Fluttershy. I won't let them hurt you anymore.” Rainbow Dash drew Fluttershy into a hug and gently ran her hoof through Fluttershy's mane. Fluttershy cried in Rainbow's embrace for a few minutes more before regaining her composure. 

“So what now?” Fluttershy whispered wiping away her tears with a hoof. Rainbow Dash reluctantly released Fluttershy and pointed at her wing. 

“Well with that bruised wing of yours you won't be up for some long distance flying and I figure those griffons had to come from some place nearby. So I say we track them down, report them to the authorities, and let you rest up. Sounds like a plan Flutters?” 

Fluttershy nodded in her head and slowly got to her hooves. “Should we get going? Oh I almost forgot!” Fluttershy rushed over to where the bear had been standing guard and gave him a big hug. “Thank you so much for protecting me." She whispered to the bear before giving him another hug. Rainbow Dash waited patiently for Fluttershy to say goodbye to her ursine friend and join her in tracking the griffons. They headed off in the direction they saw the griffons flee in and soon came across some tracks.

“I knew it!” Rainbow Dash bragged “At least one of those griffons is too hurt to fly properly and his friends aren't willing to carry him. Now all we have to do is follow this trail and we'll find a town in no time!” 

“Um, but what if they aren't nice and try to capture us again? I mean um, why are you so sure that they won't just attack us?” Fluttershy asked

“Remember Gilda? Way back when she used to tell me stories of griffon clans. According to her griffons were all about honourable duels. None of this sneaking up and ganging up on ponies. So I figure if these griffons are anything like Gilda's clan then they'll be in trouble for trying to ambush us.” Rainbow Dash explained as they walked on. 

After that they mostly followed the trail in silence. Occasionally Fluttershy would find a squirrel or some other animal and stop for a chat. At other times Rainbow Dash would fly up ahead to scout, though she never went very far. Eventually the tracks disappeared into a wide and well formed trail. The two pegasi were briefly at a loss on which way to go but Fluttershy simply asked a nearby mouse for directions and they were on the move once again. As they got closer to their destination they noticed signs that winter had been wrapped up in this area at least. Squirrels and bunnies came out to greet Fluttershy and there was barely any snow on the ground. Finally they reached the end of the forest which opened up into a wide field. In the distance ponies could be seen dragging ploughs across the fields, past the fields the town loomed with unpainted stone buildings while simple cloud homes orbited above overhead. The two ponies attention was immediately drawn to a massive stone coliseum as it was decorated with bright and colourful flags. It dominated the the centre of the town and from the noise it seemed that most of the town was in the coliseum at the moment. 
“I wonder what's going on?” Fluttershy whispered as they walked through the mostly quiet town.
“I don't know. Sounds fun though.” Rainbow Dash responded as another big cheer arose from the arena. “Hey there's a pony! Lets go ask what's going on.” Rainbow flew off leaving Fluttershy to try and catch up as she flew up to the earth pony in question. He was cooking food and setting it up on display. He was also wearing a collar. 
“Hey what's going on?” Rainbow Dash demanded.
“It's Fight Day.” The stallion replied. Seeing the confusion on the blue pegasus' face he explained, “you know, the day when all the big duels are settled? Nearly everypony gets the day off so they can settle whatever duels they have.” The stallion sighed and muttered something under his breath.
“What was that?” Rainbow Dash leaned closer as she asked.
“Nothing! Now go away, can't you see that I'm busy?” The stallion snapped and turned back to his cooking. Shrugging Rainbow Dash flew back to Fluttershy who hadn't caught up yet. 
“So what's going on?” Asked Fluttershy.
“I'm not sure. I think the griffons have their duels today or something?” 
“Why was he wearing that collar?”
“I don't know, didn't ask.” The two pegasi shrugged at each other and continued on their way. The headed towards the coliseum deciding to get a look at all of the excitement. They had just reached the entrance when the doors opened and a massive herd of ponies and griffons all poured out. Rainbow Dash instinctively took flight but Fluttershy cowered instead and was quickly pulled away with the crowd. Rainbow Dash tried to dive after her but her fellow pegasi and griffons kept getting in her way as they joined her in the air. Rainbow Dash dodged, dove, and dipped to avoid a collusion but as a result her progress was slowed. Finally she managed to catch up to Fluttershy only to see a large griffon looming over the frightened pegasus and trapping her in an alley. 
“HEY! Back off!” Rainbow Dash yelled, landing between the two of them and glaring at the griffon. 
“This has nothing to do with you pony! Back off!” The griffon just glared right back.
“Are you kidding? I'm not going to allow anypony mess with Fluttershy on my watch!” Rainbow snorted as she prepared to fight. Surprisingly the griffon backed off.
“I suppose I should have know better then to assume that such a beautiful pegasus would remain free for long. How much do you want for her?” The griffon sighed dramatically. 
“W-what?! I wouldn't give Fluttershy up for all the bits in Equestria- no the entire world!” 
“I will have that pony and though I would prefer to settle this peacefully I'm not averse to using force.” The griffon snarled, any previous veneer of friendliness having vanished. 
“Bring it on punk! I'll smash you into the dirt any day of the week!” Rainbow Dash declared bringing up her hooves to fight.
“It's official then,” the griffon gave an unpleasant smile before shouting “UNCLE!” The two ponies just stared at him but in less then a minute a smaller, older griffon showed up sporting a massive golden moustache and and elegant wide-brimmed hat. He took one look at the scene and sighed.
“What have you gotten yourself into this time nephew?” His voice was raspy, like sandpaper.
“A duel Uncle, for that yellow beauty over there. If I'm to fight that rainbow'd brute then I need to go prepare. I trust I can leave things to you?” The griffon said ignoring Rainbow Dash's murderous glare. The uncle just nodded and the griffon smiled before flying away. Rainbow continued to glare and mutter unheard insults as she watched the griffon fly. The raspy voice of the uncle broke her concentration though.
“I apologize for how crude my nephew is. I suppose he didn't even introduce himself did he? My name is Cushy Feathers. May I know the names of who I am dealing with?” Cushy Feathers said with a bow.
“I'm Rainbow Dash and this is my marefriend Fluttershy. I hope you don't mind but I am going to pound your nephew into the ground.” Rainbow Dash growled as Fluttershy slowly began to uncurl to see this new griffon. 
“That is your right, of course, but did you say marefriend?” Cushy Feathers' eyebrows rose in exaggerated shock.
“Yeah that's right! Do you have a problem with that?” Rainbow Dash glared. 
“Oh no, no, no! I don't have any sort of problem! But you should probably keep your dear, Fluttershy was it? Status a secret unless you want to take official responsibility for her.” Cushy Feathers lifted his talons in a placating gesture. “Regardless I think what my nephew is doing is absolutely horrid. Trying to separate a couple that is so clearly in love? I swear this generation has no true sense of honour.” The elderly griffon said with a sniff. 
“So what do we do now?” Fluttershy asked quietly
“Pardon?” 
“She said what do we do now?” Rainbow Dash repeated impatiently. 
“Oh right. If you'll just follow me I'll show you to the prep room in the coliseum. The announcer will call your name and then you'll fight my idiot nephew and hopefully teach him a thing or two about respect.”
“What are the rules?” Rainbow Dash asked as the trio began making their way to the coliseum.
“They're very simple really. No weapons allowed but other then that anything goes! The fight goes til one side gives up or isn't capable of fighting.” Cushy Feathers explained. From then on the pegasi and griffon mostly just flew in silence. Occasionally Cushy Feathers would attempt to make small talk but Rainbow Dash would only answer in one or two words and Fluttershy was too shy to talk at all. Finally Cushy Feathers left them alone inside a stone room whose walls were covered in banners depicting past champions of the coliseum. For a few minutes they waited in silence while Rainbow Dash looked at the different banners but eventually Fluttershy spoke up.
“You don't have to do this Rainbow Dash.” She pleaded. “It's not that big of a deal really.”
“You heard him Fluttershy. He offered to buy you as if you were a product in a store! No way am I letting a scumbag like that off the hook! Then he threatened you to top it off! Nopony threatens you and gets away with it! Ever!” Rainbow Dash argued back. “Besides its too late now. If I tried to back down now we'd likely get thrown into prison or worse.”
“Really?” Fluttershy squeaked “Are you sure?”
“Almost positive,” Rainbow nodded her head, “Griffons take duels very seriously. I mean just look at the size of this building or these banners! This entire town practically revolves around fighting.”
“If you say so.” Fluttershy hid behind her mane and bowed her head. 
“Aw, come on Fluttershy. This guy doesn't stand a chance against me. It'll be over in ten seconds flat.” Rainbow Dash said putting a hoof under Fluttershy's chin to make her look up. “Now c'mere.” Rainbow Dash drew Fluttershy in and gave her a big hug. She couldn't help but grin when she heard the yellow pegasus give a little squeak at the pressure. 
“Now for our next match Bleakbeak vs Rainbow Dash!” The distant announcer called. 
“Just hold on Fluttershy, I'll be back before you know it.” Rainbow Dash said before giving Fluttershy a quick kiss. Fluttershy gave a small smile in response.
“Good luck.” She whispered as she watched her rainbow fly out into the arena. 
The arena was bright and loud. An empty field of hard dirt was circled by a massive stadium full of cheering and yelling ponies and griffons. Rainbow Dash even thought she saw a minotaur or two. Still what had most of Rainbow Dash's attention was the arrogant young griffon from before by the name of Bleakbeak. Just the sight of him was enough to get Rainbow Dash's blood boiling and she impatiently looked up at the referee for the signal to begin. 
“BEGIN IN THREE SECONDS. ONE.....TWO......THREE!” The referee announced. At three Rainbow Dash took off like a bullet. She slammed into Bleakbeak and just kept going. Her momentum and speed were so great that she carried her opponent across the entire arena and slammed into the opposite wall. Letting go of Bleakbeak she dropped to all four hooves turned around and bucked Bleakbeak as hard as she could right in his face. There was a large crack followed by a shriek in pain. Bleakbeak collapsed, grabbing his beak in both talons. A large crack now ran down the centre of the upper half of his beak and blood was beginning to well up. Seeing Rainbow Dash raise her hoof threateningly Bleakbeak quickly threw up a talon in submission.
“I give, I give!” He cried. The crowd was silent for a moment.
“A NEW RECORD FOLKS! LETS HEAR IT FOR RAINBOW DASH!” The referee screamed and the crowd erupted in cheers. Rainbow Dash gave a wave and grin to the cheering crowds before zooming back to where she left Fluttershy. She was met by a fierce hug from the yellow mare and couldn't help but grin.
“What did I tell you? Ten seconds flat.” She whispered to Fluttershy.  Rainbow Dash leaned in for a kiss but the two pegasi sprung apart in surprise when Cushy Feathers burst in.
“Good show, good show! My idiot nephew isn't going to be able to talk for a week let alone get into more stupid fights.” The elderly griffon chuckled.
“What are you doing here?” Rainbow Dash said flatly. 
“To congratulate you on your marvelous victory of course!” Cushy Feathers smiled as Rainbow Dash glared at him, “and to bring you your winnings,” he finished. He whistled and a blue unicorn mare with a yellowish white mane entered the room. She wore a collar and had a crystal globe as her cutie mark. “This is Clear Thought who has served my nephew as an adviser these last few years to little avail. Hopefully you'll get more use out of her.”
“Greetings Mistress, how may I serve you?” Clear Thought said with a bow. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy just stared in shock and horror. 
“Did you not realize what was on the line? If you had lost either you or your friend there would have become my nephew's slave.” Cushy Feathers explained seeing the look of shock on their faces. Rainbow Dash opened her mouth to speak but was interrupted by Fluttershy's hoof. The yellow pegasus had grabbed Rainbow Dash from behind and was holding her close.
“Please Rainbow Dash, lets just get out of here.” She whispered into Rainbow Dash's ear. “Thank you for your help.” Fluttershy said to Cushy Feathers before fleeing the room with Rainbow Dash behind her. The two pegasi left the coliseum as quickly as they could  and took to the skies immediately after. They raced out of town and didn't land until they were a good distance out of town. For a few minutes the pair stood in silence as Fluttershy caught her breath. 
“Why'd you stop me?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Because-”
“Here you are!” Clear Thought exclaimed as she ran up. “Why did you run off Mistress?”
“Don't call me that!” Rainbow Dash snapped.
“My apologies. How shall I address you then?” Clear Thought bowed deeply.
“Stop it! You don't need to bow to me or call me anything special!” Rainbow Dash yelled.
“But you are my owner, and I should treat you with respect.”
“No! Consider yourself free! I will not own another pony! That's just sick and wrong!” Rainbow Dash was panting after she finished. Fluttershy came up and nuzzled her. Clear Thought sat in shock her mouth hanging wide open. 
“You're so strong and yet you think slavery is wrong?” Clear Thought asked in a daze.
“Of course it's wrong! Ponies shouldn't own one another!”
“Why do you think it's right?” Fluttershy added.
“The strong should rule and the weak should support the strong. That's what this entire civilization is based on. If you lose a duel you must either give up a slave or become a slave to the victor. Your owner must care for you but you must serve your owner the best you can. Everypony is born free and anypony can be challenged to a duel. These are the rules we all live by and in doing so we've propered.” Clear Thought explained slowly and dully.
“Everypony is strong in their own way! Just because I can beat somepony in a fight doesn't mean I'm stronger then them in every way. If there is anything the last two years have taught me it's that strength and greatness comes from working together in harmony.” Rainbow Dash argued back. Clear Thought stayed silent for a few moments, 
“Well what now?” Clear Thought said trying to keep her voice steady.
“I don't know. Me and Fluttershy are going to keep heading home to Equestria. You can do whatever you want.” 
“Please don't leave me! If you go away I'll just get caught again and I don't want to be a slave anymore! I'm not strong enough to win any duels.” Clear Thought was openly sobbing now as she desperately grabbed onto one of Rainbow Dash's hooves.
“Oh you poor thing,” Fluttershy rushed to Clear Thought and gave her a hug. “Just calm down, you're safe now and Rainbow Dash and I won't let anything bad happen to you.” Fluttershy promised as she stroked the crying mare's mane. 
“B-but I can't keep up with pegasi! You'll fly away and leave me!” Clear Thought wailed.
“Then we'll just have to stay.” Rainbow Dash declared.
“What about Equestria Rainbow Dash? Don't we need to stop Paradox?” Fluttershy asked.
“Equestria can handle Paradox for a while, he doesn't seem that destructive at least. And we can't just leave all of these ponies to suffer can we? No we'll stay until every last slave is freed!” Rainbow answered stomping her hood on the ground. Fluttershy smiled and nodded her support as Clear Thought started to calm down.
“Free every slave? How are you going to do that?” Clear Thought asked with a snivel. 
“Don't worry, I've got a plan.” Rainbow Dash grinned. “This is going to be awesome.”
> Chapter 3.Pinkie
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Pinkie Pie bounced, and bounced, and bounced, and bounced. As she went she laughed, sang and chased after fauna. Finally she stopped and collapsed to the ground. “I'm so bored!” She wailed, “I mean sure it was fun seeing all the new critters and new flowers, which are really tasty by the way I can't wait to make some flower flavoured cupcakes, but there's nopony around to share it all with!” Pinkie Pie took a deep breath, “IS THERE ANYPONY THERE? HEEEEELLLLLOOOOO?” Pinkie gasped and inhaled rapidly. To her disappointment only bird calls answered her. Pinkie sighed and kept walking forward, she didn't know where she was going but there was nopony around here so there was no reason to stay. Hopefully she'd find somepony if she just kept moving. 
“Just keep moving, just keep moving, just keep moving moving moving.” Pinkie sang as she walked along, “Just keep walking, just keep walking, just keep walking walking walking.” Her pace increased and Pinkie started to bounce as she sang, “Just keep bouncing, just keep bouncing, just keep bouncing bouncing bouncing, I love to bounce, Oh bouncing -AH!” The ground under Pinkie suddenly collapsed dropping Pinkie down a deep hole and trapping her at the bottom.
“That was pretty fun! But how am I going to get out now? Also who just digs a hole in the middle of a jungle? Wait! If somepony dug this hole then they must be around here somewhere. And they'll check this hole and I can meet them and be their friend! And I'll finally have somepony to talk to! Afterall who just digs a hole in the middle of nowhere? Moles do! But this hole is too big to be dug by moles so clearly they must be giant doom moles from the Sun! Who think they can dig their way to the moon and take it over for the glory of the great Molish Empire! Wait, but this hole doesn't go anywhere. Hmm... that must mean that it's a trap to catch ponies. But why do the moles want to catch ponies? Because they eat ponies of course! Oh no oh no oh no oh no oh no! I don't want to get eaten up in a big stew with turnips, potatoes, and tomatoes! I've got to climb out of this hole.” With that Pinkie threw herself at the steep walls of the hole, trying frantically to climb her way up through sheer force. She actually managed to get a few feet up but with a small cry and bounce she fell back to the bottom. 
“Stupid mole hole! I'll beat you yet! Hyaah!” Pinkie bounced up and scrabbled at the walls with her hooves as she slowly fell back down again. She slid all the way back down and fell on her rump. “Stupid hole!” She exclaimed before punching the wall with her hoof. “Ow!” 
“Heyrðir þú eitthvað?” A voice suddenly said.
“Það kom frá gildrunni.” Another voice replied.
“Hey, listen! I'm over here, trapped in a hole made by moles! Come help me.” Pinkie called. A few moments later a long knotted rope dropped down. 
"Gríptu í." One of the voices yelled. Pinkie grabbed the rope with her mouth and they started to pull her out of the hole. When she got out there were two small boars staring her in the face. One had black fur and the other had brown, both were only about the size of Applebloom and had long tusks jutting out from their mouths. 
“Thanks for saving me. I'm so happy. Happy! Happy! Happy! Happy! Happy! Happy!” Pinkie Pie sang as she bounced around the two boars. They looked at each other and shrugged. Before they could do anything else Pinkie grabbed the two of them and gave them both a massive hug. While carrying both of them she spun and danced around before finally releasing them sending them spinning to the ground. “Whoo that was so much fun! What are you names anyways?”
“Hvað? Mér svimar.” The black furred boar muttered before standing back up.
“Huh? I can't understand you at all. But that's all right because the universal language of the world is parties! I'm sure we'll get along great and we'll be great friends even though we can't understand a word we are saying to each other. Just like me and Twilight!” 
“Komdu, við skulum fara aftur til þorpsins.” The brown boar said to the black boar. The gestured for Pinkie to follow them and the trio set off through the jungle. The two boars' low stature allowed them to slip through the dense underbrush while Pinkie merely bounced through it as before. They walked for the rest of the day before they finally reached the boars' home. Pinkie actually smelt it before she could see it, the familiar smell of baking filled the air and Pinkie propelled herself forward in response. Her sudden acceleration startled her guides who raced after Pinkie as she practically rocketed towards the village. 
When they caught up with her they found her bouncing around the village excitedly babbling on to every boar she came across, even though none of the villagers could understand her. The village itself was rather small and circular. The inner ring of buildings were houses with the outer ring containing storage areas and various workplaces as well as the market. A large dome could be seen on the outskirts of town as well. Of course the most important boar had a home in the direct centre of the village, which doubled as a sort of town hall. Pinkie, of course, was quickly drawing a crowd as she barged into the boars' homes and sang to the entire village. 
“Hvað eigum við að gera?”  The brown boar asked the black boar.
“Náum í höfðingjann”  The black boar replied. The brown boar ran off into the large building at the centre of the village. Meanwhile the other boar did it's best to intercept Pinkie and keep her calm. To no avail. Despite his efforts she managed to hijack a family of boars and directed them to cooking while she started stringing balloons up on random areas of the village. The crowd watched mesmerized as she barked out orders in an incomprehensible language and continued to decorate everything in sight. Finally a huge old grey boar emerged from the centre building. A hush fell over the crowd with even Pinkie stopping for a second before rushing up to him.
“Wow you must be the head honcho around here! You're so much bigger and oooh, look how big those tusks are!” Pinkie said poking said tusks with a hoof. “It's like your the boar version of Princess Celestia but you don't have a glowing pretty mane that sparkles and dances. But I bet you have the same love of cake! Just wait til I finish getting this party started and you'll taste cake like you've never tasted before!” 
The elderly boar just ignored her and faced the crowd. "Fólk, Ljáið mér eyra, því ég færi ykkur fórn þessa árs!" He bellowed pointing a hoof at Pinkie. The entire village erupted into cheers as a result and the boars suddenly exploded into motion. They ran around pulling out large tables and set up torches around the village. Others joined the first family in cooking while others began to bring out crude plates of wood while more still filled the streets with ribbons and pulled out drums to play music with. Pinkie watched the proceedings for a few moments before turning to the elderly boar.
“You're throwing me a party! I just knew we'd get along perfectly! Now what can I do to help?” Pinkie exclaimed, bouncing in place. The boars ignored her and continued their work. Before Pinkie could dash off again three elderly sows approached her. They said something incomprehensible to Pinkie who just stared at them blankly, smiled, and fluttered her eyes. “Can I help you?” She asked sweetly. 
Sighing the old chieftain gave the sows some orders and the three sows gently nudged Pinkie and gestured for her to follow them. She bounced after them and they led her to a large building on the edge of the village. The building formed a large dome over a massive spring in the middle, the natural heat radiating from the spring filled the air with steam. The boars had begun decorating the interior with strange coloured torches that let out a sweet multicolored smoke. Pinkie moved to help the boars, but one of the sows intercepted her and pushed her towards a room to the side. Inside they began dressing Pinkie in strange clothing made of hardened wood that had spikes on the back of it as well as giving her spikes on the sides of her barrel and flank. The wood was finely painted with strange symbols that glimmered and seemed to shift in the flickering prismatic light of the torches.  When they had finished Pinkie looked like almost like a strange multicoloured hedgehog with a pink core.
“Thanks for the cool clothing... I've never had wooden clothing before but why are there three of each of you?” Pinkie giggled and swayed. Her tongue hung out as she panted, her eyes half closed. “Do any of you find it kinda hard to breath? I-” Pinkie yawned, her mouth expanding to massive sizes with the sows staring in awe, or perhaps fear. Pinkie couldn't tell. “I mean I'm starting to get really dizzy and hungry too. I hope you guys have got some food cooking cause I could eat an entire MMM right now. Maybe even two.” 
The sows finished dressing her and brought her back to the central chamber. In addition to the multicoloured smoke a large horn had been added, but that's not what got Pinkie's attention. For the boars had brought in the tables and upon those tables was an exotic spread of fruits Pinkie had never seen, delicious looking stews, and many dishes full of spicy fried veggies. When the boars saw Pinkie they all cheered and pulled her into the festivities. They danced, sang, and played strange games. But most of all they ate. Or at least Pinkie did. She couldn't turn around without a boar pushing a new and strange dish in her face for her to try. Pinkie tried to introduce her own games to the boars, but of course they couldn't understand her and after a while Pinkie gave up and just enjoyed the festivities. 
The party lasted a long time and the sun was rising by the time it started to die down. The chief boar showed up and the sows directed Pinkie to stand directly in front of the hot spring. By this point Pinkie was so stuffed full of food and dazed by the strange smoke she barely bounced at all while she waited. The rest of the boars all grabbed torches and began to chant.
“Komdu fram! Komdu og Samþykktu fórn okkar ó voldugasta skepna alheimsinins, Jogund!” They bellowed again and again. As they chanted they stomped their hooves in a rhythmic beat. They chanted louder and louder as the tempo to the beat got faster and faster. Finally it ended when the chief boar sounded the massive horn they brought in earlier. The noise was deep and powerful, giving Pinkie a funny feeling in her stomach as the vibrations passed through her. For a few brief seconds there was silence then Pinkie whirled around as she heard splashing coming from the hot spring behind her. Arising from the large pool was the most gigantic sea serpent that Pinkie had ever seen. Correction; arising from the pool was the head of the largest sea serpent Pinkie had ever seen as nothing else could fit in the building. It's scales were as black as a midnight sky and it's eyes were two topaz coloured orbs that were bigger then any pony, or three, put together. It's eyes glanced towards Pinkie who just sat there, her mouth wide open and eyes opened wide. 
“What in the world is an Equestrian pony doing here?” It said in perfect Equestrian. 
> Chapter 3.Rarity
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Clover stared at Rarity for a few moments. “Alright then, what does founding Equestria entail? Do we send over a ship full of ponies to colonize it or something along those lines?” She asked.
“No, the founding of Equestria was a migration of the entire unicorn species and a joint effort by all three pony tribes.” Rarity said. 
“What? I don't believe you. There is no way we'd ever abandon our homeland let alone work with the earth and pegasus ponies.” Clover said. 
“It's true. After all three tribes were driven from our ancestral homeland, I suppose that would be your current home actually, by a never ending winter we made our way to a new land. There the unicorns met up with the other tribes which had done the same thing. Upon arrival in Equestria the three tribe began to bicker about who owned the land and who got there first. Once the renewed fighting between the tribes caused another blizzard, you used the magic of friendship to defeat the windigoes who had been creating the cold the entire time. From that time on all three tribes worked together in harmony and created the nation of Equestria.” Rarity insisted. Clover, unsatisfied with the short explanation demanded the full story and Rarity told her all that she could remember. At the end of Rarity's story Clover was shaking her head and asking questions. 
“Impossible. First these 'windigoes' of yours don't make any sense. Why would they follow the pony tribes? How come the pegasi didn't tell anyone about them? How did they manipulate the cold? The pegasi have to work nonstop during the winter months to make all the snowflakes needed for even our normal snowfalls, let alone a blizzard. Where did the windigoes get the time to do all of this?” Clover argued.
“Err, I'm not sure, but I know the windigoes feed off hatred and strife, so that's why they followed you to Equestria. I think they were incorporeal or something, so that's why they couldn't be seen. I honestly have no idea about the snowflakes, I'm not an expert on either weather or extinct monsters. “ Rarity said.
“See? They don't make sense and that's not the only part.” Clover said.
“Oh? What else is wrong?” Rarity said, her heart sinking. 
“All three pony tribe all decide to leave at the same time? All not consulting the others and they all somehow end up in the same place? All by taking different paths? Not only do they arrive at the same place but they immediately begin bickering again? I know we don't get along, but its not like we hate each other.” Clover argued.
“Well the pony tribes had all run out of food. So it was either leave or starve to death. Is it so surprising that you all began to fight? After all tensions were already very high when you migrated to Equestria. Not only that but all the tribes had just had a dangerous journey, I imagine their nerves were a little raw as a result. As for all the tribes arriving in the same location; well that's unlikely but it's certainly possible isn't it?” Rarity did her best to explain. Clover thought it over for a few seconds and shrugged.
“I suppose that isn't entirely unreasonable then. Still there is one big problem and that is this so called 'magic of friendship'. I've been studying magic my whole life plus I've been taught by the greatest unicorn mage of all time, and I have never even heard of such a thing. Also the entire idea is preposterous. You can't draw magical power from emotions like friendship, love, or happiness. It takes discipline to master magic and you can't use magic effectively when you are full of any emotion because then you'll be too distracted to work the spell correctly.” Clover stomped her hoof down at the end of her little rant. Rarity just stared at her silently for a few moments as she held back an amused smile. 
“I don't have any proof, but trust me when I say that the magic of friendship is a very real thing. In fact it is, without a doubt, the most powerful magic of them all. Just open your heart to your fellow ponies and I'm sure you'll discover it for yourself.” Rarity said, her voice full of conviction. Clover stared at Rarity for a bit before shaking her head. 
“I'm not going to argue if it means so much to you. I'll just say I disagree and leave it at that. Anyways we should focus on the here and now, instead of the possible future. For now lets make sure you know how to act like the princess so no one will figure you out like I did.” Clover said. 
“I assure you that I am well versed on what is expected of a princess and that I am fully capable of handling any social situation that may arise.” Rarity said.
“Hmm, well I'll test you on that later just to be sure. But for now I want to focus on specific mannerisms like Princess Platinum's favourite food and colour. As well as the specific noble families which I assume you know nothing about,” Clover paused for a second and Rarity nodded in response, “so we'll start with the prominent figures that you'd be expected to know as well as which nobles are allies of the princess and which are enemies.” 
“Enemies?” Rarity asked.
“Yes, Princess Platinum is very active politically and is quite ambitious. As a result she has upset several members of the nobility when she consolidated much of their political power into her own. Others feel threatened and fear that they'll be the Princess's next target,” Clover explained. “On the other hoof the Princess has also gathered many allies, some who think that by siding with the Princess they will gain more power of their own, and some whose interests merely aligned with her own. Finally there are the yes-ponies who side with whoever they think has the most power. They are an annoying but often vital group.” Clover explained. 
“Don't worry darling, I know just how to handle those sort of ponies,” Rarity said with a smirk, “let's get started shall we?” The two ponies got to work. Clover brought out several large books that traced the dynasties of the various noble families. As Clover read out each ponies name she would produce a picture from another book so Rarity could recognize them on sight. She would also give a short description of that pony's personality and if they were friendly to the Princess or not. They continued studying on through to lunch where they took a break. At lunch they had a lovely meal consisting of salad, fruit salad, and salad soup. Between dishes Clover quizzed Rarity on various rules of etiquette and the proper forms of speaking. Rarity practised on the various servants that served the meal and cleaned up after the two unicorns. After lunch Clover gave Rarity a crash course on how Princess Platinum behaved. Rarity learned the simpler things like favourite colour and the clothing that she generally wore, but had a hard time accepting Princess Platinum's personal beliefs.
“Earth ponies are not brainless thugs who are good only for the food they give us!” Rarity shouted.
“I know Princess Platinum's views are a little extreme-” Clover began.
“A little? They're absolutely horrid!” Rarity shrieked. 
“Well it's not like the earth ponies have anything resembling real culture or intellectual thinking.” Clover said in defence of her Princess. 
“That's absurd! Have you ever even met an earth pony? Some of the greatest musicians of all time are earth ponies; not to mention their abilities in business, construction, and engineering. In fact most of the cities in Equestria were built and founded by earth ponies.” Rarity said
“That can't be right. I was taught that earth ponies could barely avoid running into fences let alone build them,” Clover shook her head in denial.
“Have you ever met an earth pony? Or seen one of their towns? That should show you the truth pretty quickly,” Rarity said.
“Of course not! Only the Royal Guard and Family interact with the other tribes. Even they only go to Three Hoof Point, where all the tribes go to for the exchange of food and the occasional emergency meeting,” Clover said.
“Then how do you know what they are like anyways?” Rarity pointed out.
“It's what I've been taught by my teacher.” Clover said.
“Well your teacher is either a fool or is lying to you.” Rarity said, tossing her mane.
“He would never do that! And he's a brilliant stallion, and don't you dare insult him again!” Clover yelled.
“Hmph, and who is your teacher anyways?” Rarity said, sticking up her nose.
“The greatest unicorn of all time, Starswirl the Bearded.” Clover declared, challenging Rarity to disagree. 
“Never heard of him,” Rarity said quickly.
“You've never heard of Starswirl the Bearded? Who has created more spells then any other unicorn? Who has even developed spells that allow unicorns to walk upon the clouds and even fly?” Clover yelled.
“That sounds very familiar but no I never knew he created those spells. I will admit that I have no interest in history,” Rarity said, “but despite that I know that anypony who teaches such despicable beliefs about the pegasi and earth ponies is blind fool who refuses to see reality. So what did he teach you about the pegasi anyways? Wait, no don't tell me, he thinks that pegasi are lazy, hotheaded fools who will never amount to anything?” Rarity said, her voice full of venom. Clover suddenly dropped her gaze, no longer willing to meet Rarity's eyes. “What? Was I right?” Rarity said. Clover just shook her head.  “So what was it then?” Rarity demanded. Clover mumbled something and Rarity stamped her hoof, “I'm sorry what was that?” She demanded again. 
“He thinks we should kill them,” Clover admitted lowering her head and looking at the floor, “he thinks that the pegasi are a threat and that they are barbaric and that they are useless. It's why he researched the walk on cloud spells and wing spell in the first place; he's preparing the tools needed to attack them and replace them.” 
“I imagine the Princess agrees with him? Or does she think something even worse?” Rarity said coldly.
“N-no she doesn't! She likes pegasi!” Clover looked horrified and quickly glanced around the room. “I mean she thinks that the pegasi have a lot of potential, and that under the proper rule of the unicorns they would become properly cultured and civilized,” Clover added.
“So she wishes to enslave them.” Rarity said, her tone of voice never wavering.
“Not exactly,” Clover scanned the room in again and moved closer to Rarity. “She thinks they're pretty and she really really likes their wings. Also she's dreamed of flying ever since she was a filly. That's the real reason she's been some a passionate support of my teacher's work.” She whispered. Clover took a step back, blushing and still looking around the room. Rarity stayed silent, thinking everything over and giving herself some time to calm down.
“Well what do you believe?” Rarity asked.
“Me? Well...” Clover thought for a moment before continuing, “I think the pegasi are a threat. From everything my teacher and the Princess has told their new leader, Commander Hurricane, is very aggressive and bold. The other pegasi would likely follow their leader in whatever decision he makes. But as far as the average pegasi's personality, well I suppose I don't truly know how they normally act, however I would hypothesize that they tend to be very aggressive and militaristic on the basis that their leader holds a military rank. This also fits with what both the Princess and my teacher have told me.”
“And what about the earth ponies?” Rarity asked.
“I haven't really thought about them at all. I don't expect to ever have to deal with earth ponies as long as they keep bringing in the food. I don't particularly want to interact with any earth ponies anyways. Even if they are as intelligent as the average unicorn I can't imagine that they would want to talk about anything that interests me.” Clover said. The two ponies sat in silence for a little while. 
“Well the point is that I find Princess Platinum's beliefs about the other two pony tribes abhorrent and I will not act like some brute who is incapable of common sense!” Rarity said, clearing her throat. 
“But you must! If you don't eveypony will figure out that you aren't the Princess and then both you and her will be killed!” Clover protested. 
“I don't believe that they'll kill me.” Rarity snorted.
“Well perhaps not,” Clover admitted, “but they certainly wouldn't allow you to remain in power as a Princess! Her life would be ruined and you'd likely be stuck here since you wouldn't be able to 'found Equestra' from one of our dungeons.” Clover continued. 
“Ugh, fine! You've made your point. I'll behave, for now. But though I must act like a racist doesn't mean I have to be one. I will be subtle and I will be cautious, but I will encourage the unicorns to be more peaceful and friendly towards the pegasi and earth ponies!” Rarity said. 
“Fine. Just don't slip up. Now I suggest we take a break. I'm pretty stressed out after our little fight.” Clover said. Rarity nodded in agreement and the two ponies went for tea. This time they sat in silence, letting the sweet aroma of the tea fill their lungs and calm their hearts. After a while they started chatting about some basic things, Rarity wanted to know about the current fashions and Clover was eager to tell her. They were just discussing what sort of dress Princess Platinum would be seen wearing when they were interrupted by a jingle of a bell and a gruff voice clearing it's throat. Turning towards the noise, they saw a yellowish-tan stallion with a pure white mane and beard coming towards them. He was dressed in an elaborate cloak and hat that was adorned with large brass bells that jingled as he walked. 
“There you are Clover. Where have you been? You know you were needed to assist with my experiments today. And here I find you slacking off, drinking tea with the Princess instead of recording my research,” he snapped.
“I'm sorry Master Starswirl.” Clover said, bowing her head.
“Sorry? Sorry doesn't get me back a day of research. Sorry doesn't fix an inexcusable delay for no reason! Sorry doesn't mean that you didn't fail to take those basic notes! Now get your flank in motion or I'll find somepony else to be my apprentice!” Starswirl yelled. Clover jumped to her hooves and made to run out the door but Rarity stopped her with a small tug of magic.
“My dear Starswirl, I'm afraid that I am responsible for your apprentice being absent from your experiment. I needed her advice of a matter of some significance.” Rarity said in her most regal tone.
“Very well Princess. May I enquire on what this matter was and why it was more important then my critical research into spells we can use against the pegasi threat?” Starswirl said in a tightly controlled voice. Rarity took a drink of tea, thinking frantically.
“Why that was the matter I was discussing of course,” Rarity said, “quite frankly your flight spell and cloudwalking spell are insufficient for any sort of offensive action against the pegasi.” 
“What's wrong with them? Those spells are ingenious!” Starswirl said defensively.
“So Clover claimed. However the cloudwalking spell merely leaves our troops on terrain that can literally be kicked out from under them and the flight spell, while getting our troops in the sky, is much too fragile for anything resembling actual combat. A single swipe of a pegasus hoof could tear the gossamer wings apart, sending our troops plummeting. Besides all of that you've yet to come up with some way to counter Commander Hurricane from merely using the pegasi control over the weather to crush us with snow and ice. Those are the matters that I had to discuss with your apprentice and I must say that I was not impressed by the answers that she gave.” Rarity said with a sniff.
Starswirl backed off and bowed, “I see you've given this quite some thought Princess. Indeed these are some serious problems that you've pointed out, I'll have to retire to my laboratory and see what I can come up with.” He said a thoughtful expression on his face. 
“You are dismissed.” Rarity said idly waving a hoof.
“Thank you Princess,” Starswirl turned to leave but when he reached the door he turned around instead, “one question if you please, how do you know the physical composition of the wing spell? A spell that has never been field tested I might add?” He asked his horn aglow.
	
> Chapter 3.Twilight
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“Aarrgh, Rarity, you were doing so well,” Twilight groaned as she watched the events unfold in the orb of past and present. Her raw, dry throat protested, causing her to cough. She licked her lips, pushing gently on the dry and cracked flesh. “I need some water,” she croaked. Twilight quickly looked around but, predictably, she only saw books. Twilight sighed as she reluctantly looked at the orb. I guess I've got to stop watching, until I get some water at least. Twilight's stomach rumbled and a sharp pain reminded her that she hadn't eaten anything either. Twilight blushed even though nopony was around to hear her gut.
“From the top then.” Twilight said, closing her eyes as she imagined running down a list with Spike, “Problem: I am both dehydrated and starving. I need to find both a source of food and potable water soon. Step one, check my immediate surroundings,” Twilight looked around spotting only the orb and the many bookshelves that surrounded her. “No food or water as expected. Step two, go searching. Second problem: it will be very easy to get lost as there are no landmarks and everything looks the same. Solution; I'll leave a trail of books so I can find my way back. Time to begin searching.” Twilight said to herself. She proceeded to enact her plan, searching all around and periodically taking books off of the shelves whenever she turned. As she walked, she progressively became more thirsty and hungry.
“This isn't working,” Twilight whispered. “I need a better plan.” Twilight laid down on the hard ground and started thinking. The wilderness survival guides she had memorized weren't helpful at all as there was no sun to shield herself from, no wild tracks to follow, and no high ground to head towards. She couldn't even try digging her way down to the water bed as the ground was a hard and polished marble. Twilight's head lowered and her eyes began to close, her mind slowly slipping off into sleep.
“Well it was about time!” A familiar voice said, startling her and causing her to stand up. Twilight gasped, staring in awe at the scene around her. An entire galaxy flowed like a river beneath her hooves while a massive aurora borealis shined above her. Princess Luna stood before her and glared. 	“Do you know how long I was waiting?” she said.
“I'm sorry,” Twilight apologized reflexively as she bowed, “but what is this place? It's so beautiful.”
“This is my dream Twilight. I have been waiting for you to fall asleep for almost an entire day now. What's happening? Where are you?” Luna asked.
“Don't worry about me Princess, I'm alright,” Twilight reassured the Princess, “Paradox dropped me in, well, I don't know how to describe it. It's like a library, but apparently the books contain knowledge of every possible future. There's also a crystal orb that lets me see anything that is happening as well as what has happened.”
“I see. Such an obvious and useless trap. I'm sure you should be able to escape soon, and will be back at our side in no time,” Luna said. Twilight blushed in response, and looked at her hooves. “You've just been using the orb and reading haven't you?” Luna gave Twilight a disappointed look. “Why have your friends allowed you to behave thus?”
Twilight looked up, meeting the Princess's gaze, “They aren't with me. Paradox sent them to different places all around the world. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash are in the Northern Wastes, Applejack is imprisoned in Ponyville, Pinkie is...well, somewhere. I have no idea except that it's a tropical jungle that contains boars and sea serpents. Rarity was actually sent back in time to the rule of Princess Platinum and Starswirl the Bearded.”
“WHAT?” Luna shouted, “This is horrible news. Other than Applejack, I doubt that we can do anything to help any of the Elements with returning home. You, at least, can return with ease and should do so at once,” she added, toning her voice down.
“Yes, Princess,” Twilight said, bowing.
“No, wait! Actually, stay where you are,” Luna said suddenly.
“Princess?” Twilight asked, puzzled at the sudden change in orders.
“There is no point to you returning at this very moment. That would just give Paradox the opportunity to send you someplace that is much more dangerous. As is, not only are you safe, but you have access to much useful knowledge,” Luna said, “Now, I'm afraid that my time here is almost up. I've been asleep for far too long as is. Pleasant dreams Twilight Sparkle.” Luna faded away and the dreamscape blurred and shifted as Twilight's mind took control. She once again was a little filly, exploring the castle for the very first time. Twilight smiled as she enjoyed the dream her mind had spun for her.
Twilight's dream was interrupted by her aching throat and gut which refused to let her sleep for even one more moment. She tried to speak, coughed, and gave up. Alright, no more talking to myself. At least I'm thinking more clearly after that nap. A manual search was a bad idea, that orb could just show me where water and food is. Plus there has to be food and water around here somewhere, right? Paradox basically said he wants me to get trapped here, which means that he must have had something in mind, or else I'll be forced to escape from here, no matter how much I enjoy using that orb. Twilight thought as she made her way back towards the orb. Her trail of books was undisturbed and as she went to took care to place each book back exactly where it was before she used it as a trail marker. Overall her journey was uneventful but tiring. Show me where water is in this library. Twilight mentally commanded the orb. There was no response. Twilight frowned but repeated herself out loud. Again the orb did not respond. Is it broken? Perhaps something more basic. Show me water. Twilight thought, and the orb failed to respond. Again she repeated herself verbally and this time the orb shined with light revealing a water trough in Appeloosa. Alright, the orb still works. Apparently it only responds to verbal commands. Perhaps it didn't respond because this isn't a library? Twilight thought to herself. She quickly ran through all the synonyms and  words that described her current location, but no matter what she said the orb stayed inert.
“AAARRGH! What is Paradox doing?” Twilight shouted in frustration. In response the orb shined and revealed Paradox standing in what appeared to be a colour swapped room in the palace. Strangely he was carving something out of a block of ice with what looked to be a spoon crossed with a knife. “That's not what I meant,” Twilight said wearily. Paradox stopped what he was doing and looked directly into Twilight's viewpoint.
“Hey Twilight, I didn't expect you to look in on me so early,” Paradox said cheerfully, “I think I've got some time to talk. Just give me a second.” He twirled his spoon-knife, transforming it into a bright blue pigeon that start pecking at the ice. Paradox reached towards Twilight and to her surprise his hand came out of the orb and tried to grab her.
“Ah!” Twilight yelped, scrambling backwards.
“Mind giving me a hoof? It's hard enough pulling myself through here,” Paradox joked, “No? Alright then!” Paradox's hand bent around, reaching back into the orb. It grabbed onto his hair, which grabbed back coiling around his wrist like an octopus around it's prey, and somersaulted Paradox through the orb. He managed to land on his feet for all of one second, as his hand pulled again causing him to land right on his face. “Not even a giggle,” Paradox shook his head sadly as Twilight stared at him in a combination of shock and horror. “Fine then,” he added as he casually shook the hair-octopus off his hand, which promptly crawled away into the darkness, and snapped his fingers. His now bald head quickly began sprouting leaves and branches. “Now what did you want?”
“Um, I wanted water and food. Right,” Twilight shook her head, trying to focus, “I require food and water! If you are expecting me to stay in this trap then you have to provide me with my base necessities! Otherwise I'll be forced to escape no matter how much I enjoy observing events in the orb,” Twilight complained. Paradox just stared at her.
“Really? That's it? That's why you contacted me? I'm disappointed. I am seriously and honestly disappointed at your sheer lack of creativity,” Paradox said, snapping his fingers. With a flash, his appearance had entirely returned to normal, and a glass of water and an apple appeared in front of Twilight. She hesitantly took a sip of the water and a bite of the apple. To her surprise they were both perfectly normal. She quickly polished them off while Paradox waited patiently.
“Um, thank you. I mean, why are you so upset that I summoned you? If you didn't want to be bothered, then you should have put some food and water somewhere in here,” Twilight said, wiping her mouth with the back of her hoof.
“I don't care about that. What upsets me is that you couldn't solve such a simple problem on your own! I only gave you access to literally infinite knowledge,” Paradox pouted.
“Sure, but you didn't give any instructions on any of it! This library is an unorganized mess, and none of the books are labelled and your stupid orb will only respond to certain commands!” Twilight shouted.
“Well excuuuuuse me Twilight! I figured that Celestia's personal student would be able to solve such a simple problem,” Paradox sneered, “but if you can't think of a solution, I suppose I'll have to hold your hoof and walk you through the solution one step at a time.” With that Paradox plopped a dunce hat on Twilight's head and pointed at the orb. “This orb lets you see everything that exists and everything that has existed. It responds to simple verbal commands, or in simple terms, just tell it what you want to see.”
“I know that already,” Twilight said with a glare as she tried and failed to get the dunce cap off.
“Then how come you need my help? Anyways, moving on. The books record every possible future that exists. Between the orbs and the books you have access to literally all potential information that exists,” Paradox said.
“But you can't use the books, they aren't labelled or organized,” Twilight argued.
“The books exist Twilight. Therefore the orb works on them. Here budge over, I'll show you.” Paradox moved in front of the orb, “show me which book contains the future in which Twilight invents a spell to create drinkable water.” The orb flashed and showed one of the books. Paradox nodded, “Now split the screen and show me both that book, as well as it's position relative to my own.” The orb did as he said, now showing a map to the book as well as it's current location. “Now you just do this,” Paradox summoned up a unicorn horn on top his head which glowed a light green. The orb showed the book levitating and slowly moving along the map, until it arrived several minutes later. Twilight eagerly opened the book and started reading. A few moments later she looked back up to Paradox.
“This is just going through my daily life, there's nothing about me creating a water spell here. Oh wait, I get it,” Twilight nudged Paradox to the side, “Orb show me which page of the book I am holding contains the spell to create water. Instead of showing a page, the orb merely glowed with a number. Twilight flipped to that page and smiled with satisfaction.
“See? Simple. Just rinse and repeat. By the way, what have you been watching so far? I know you haven't looked in on me until now, so I'm curious,” Paradox said.
“I've just been watching my friends,” Twilight said as she conjured up another glass of water.
“That's it? Sure, that's interesting, but why don't you get some answers to some really cool questions?” Paradox said.
“You mean like how to defeat you?” Twilight snarked.
“Heh, good one. But I'm talking about things like ‘Luna's history’ or ‘how to become immortal’. Even the big questions like ‘how the world was made’ or ‘where Chrysalis and the Changlings are now’,” Paradox said. Twilight fell into thought, thinking about all the possible questions she could ask and trying to figure out which one she would ask first. Paradox watched her quietly for a little while fidgeting as he sat cross legged. Finally he stood up with a sigh, “Well it's been fun Twilight, but I've got to get back to work.” Paradox raised his hand as a blue light spilled from it and flowed down his body. Once the light reached his feet he disappeared in a flash. Twilight thought for a few moments more before her stomach growled loudly.
“Right, that's a good place to start. Orb, show me which book contains a future in which I invent a spell to create hay fries,” Twilight paused for a second, “thank you Paradox,” she whispered before getting back to her studies. 
> Chapter 3.Applejack
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“Right, nothin' to it then. Ah just got to go in there and get some answers from Paradox,” Applejack said to herself as she stared at the closed library door, “and it's probably going to be pretty awful. Traps, illusions, monsters; the whole nine yards. But if Ah want to help mah friends, Ah'm going to need to know exactly what Paradox did, not just to me, but to everypony,” Applejack sighed and slowly opened the door. The inside was pitch black, the light from the doorway illuminating only a single table upon which rested an unlit lantern.
“Hello Applejack, changed your mind?” Paradox said smugly, nowhere in sight.
“You know why Ah'm comin' in there. Now what are the rules to your little game here?” Applejack asked as she approached the table. With a slam, the door shut behind her just as the lantern lit itself.
“The rules are simple; just find me through the maze. Now, I'll give you two pieces of advice; don't lose that lantern no matter what, and just keep moving forward. Have fun!” Paradox said. Applejack stomped her hoof, but picked up the lantern despite her reluctance. As soon as she did, the floor underneath her simply disappeared and she plummeted through the air. Applejack fell silently, too startled to scream, before she landed on the ground, all four hooves landing softly upon the soil. Applejack looked around, it was still dark but she could see what appeared to be bushes floating in the air. Getting closer Applejack saw that they were the tops of trees, with the trunks going high in the sky. The roots hung above like tentacles, occasionally latching onto low hanging clouds which would scream in terror as they were drunk by the roots.  
“Whoa, that's creepy. Hmm,” Applejack looked around. “But it doesn't look to like it's tryin' to harm me, so Ah can handle a little bit of creepy.” Applejack kept moving occasionally dodging a lazy swipe of the roots. As she traveled, the 'forest' got thicker and thicker, with the roots getting harder and harder to dodge. Eventually, Applejack just gave up and let the roots caress her as she pushed her way through the bushy undersides of the trees. Suddenly, something caught her leg. Turning back, she saw that a root had coiled around it. Thinking fast, she swung her lantern, burning the root. It flinched away, releasing her leg. Applejack breathed a sigh of relief before noticing that none of the other roots were moving anymore.
For a second, nothing happened. Then all of the roots close by started lashing her repeatedly. The slaps of the roots didn't have much force behind them, but the sheer number of them made it feel like being pelted by hail. Applejack yelped at the pain, barely keeping her grip on the lantern as the roots whipped her. She swung her head desperately in order to drive the roots back with the lantern's flame. Every time she did, the roots would recoil and double their efforts. Finally, Applejack just gritted her teeth and took the beating as she worked her way through the bush. Applejack closed her eyes and just kept going forward til the lashes finally stopped.
Looking around, she noticed the landscape had entirely changed. The upside down forest had been replaced by the cool stone of a cave. Turning around, Applejack saw only the cave walls behind her. Ah wonder what Paradox is going to throw at me next? Caves that bite? Secretly actually a dragon? Applejack looked at the shadows that were being cast by her lantern. Actually, mah money's on some sort of shadow monster. Applejack gulped and started moving deeper into the caves. At first nothing unusual happened, but soon Applejack began to hear whispers. “Is somepony there?” Applejack called. The whispers went silent for a moment before increasing in frequency, but try as she might, Applejack couldn't hear what they were saying until she went deeper into the cave.
“Help, Applejack help,” The whispers faintly cried. Applejack shuddered and moved her aching body faster. Got to be careful, this might be a trap, Applejack thought to herself as she walked. “Applejack, save us,” the voices cried, getting louder as she got closer.
“Rainbow Dash?” Applejack called, hoping that she didn't recognize the whisper.
“Hurry! You've got to save us!” The whisper yelled.
“Ah, comin', just hold on!” Applejack yelled as darted forward. She ran as fast as she could following the frantic whispers through the twisting and turning cave tunnels. Finally she reached a dead end, the walls of the cave covered with flickering shadows. “Rainbow Dash? Where are you?” She yelled, putting the lantern down.
“We're right here,” the shadows in front of her said, swirling to take the shape of a pegasus. “Paradox trapped us in shadows. You've got to free us Applejack,” the Rainbow Dash shadow cried.
“How do Ah do that?” Applejack asked quickly.
“Give us a hug, then we can get out of here and become a real pony again.” The shadow stretched across the rocks, it's hooves spread wide.
“Seriously? Oh ponyfeathers Ah know what's goin' on here. Ya aren't Rainbow Dash, you're just some creation of Paradox aren't you?” Applejack said.
“What? No, of course not. How could you doubt your close friend like that? I'm Rainbow Dash.” The shadow said.
“Prove it then. What's mah mother's name?” Applejack asked.
“Um, was it Akane Apple?” The shadow guessed.
“Nope,” Applejack reached down and picked up the lantern before walking away. The shadow yelled and begged as she walked away but Applejack ignored it. She kept walking through the cave, which started to get tighter and tighter til Applejack was almost crawling. Finally, she squeezed her way through a hole and fell down onto a hard surface. “Now where am Ah?” Applejack groaned before looking around.
Applejack gasped her eyes widening in awe as she gazed at the scenery around her. A great ruin of rock, steel and glass surrounded her, the sky full of swirling dark clouds. The ground beneath her had transformed into a smooth black rock, it's black sheet broken by smooth lines of yellow and white. A tower of glass was to the right of her, many of it's windows shattered and even the top of it having been broken off by some monstrous force. Applejack took a few tentative steps forward, her gaze fixed firmly at the heights above and the ruins around her. For a few hours she wandered the ruins and took in the sights, and finally stopped at a crossroads, lit by colours of red and green. Sitting down she placed the lantern on the ground and stretched her jaw a bit.
“Now where should Ah go? This place... Well, it's creepy, to say the least. Besides, Ah need to focus on finding Paradox, not satisfying mah curiosity,” Applejack stared at another glass tower, this one's roof still intact. “Still, Ah guess Ah could do both. Ah bet from the top of the tower Ah'll be able to see everything around and get to poke around one of these buildings at the same time,” Applejack mused. She walked around the tower til she found a shattered window close enough to the ground for her to jump into. Applejack nearly fell over in surprise when her entry triggered a loud screeching noise and some flashing lights. She dashed forward and broke through the door to the hallway. From there she ran away, following the clearly marked signs pointing to the stairway. She ran up a good three flights before she decided to rest and see if anything was going to happen from that alarm.
At first Applejack thought that the alarm hadn't been noticed, or the ruins were truly as abandoned as they first appeared to be. But then, she spotted a shiny object moving through the streets towards her location. Applejack waited a while til it came into view. It was a group of metallic skeletons moving forward in a line, their shape somewhat like Paradox's. Applejack watched them for a little while longer before turning around heading back down the stairs. Whatever those things were, Applejack intended to avoid them. Unfortunately, by the time Applejack had gotten back to the ground floor, the skeletons had already managed to surround the building. Shoot, they move faster then Ah thought. Now what do Ah do? Applejack thought as she peered at them from behind a door. Up close the similarity to Paradox was even more evident. The creatures had the same shape, just a skeletal version of it, with the skeleton being made out of some sort of shiny metal.
Suddenly one of the skeletons turned around, its eyes flashing red. “UNKNOWN LIFE FORM DETECTED. ERADICATE POTENTIAL THREAT.” With that, its hands popped off its wrists and two narrow tubes extended. From the tubes shot a hot burning flame, igniting the door in front of Applejack. She yelped and quickly scrambled away, running back up the stairs. “LIFE FORM RESISTING ERADICATION. EXCESSIVE FORCE AUTHORIZED.” The machines at the back pulled out a tube and loaded it with something. Applejack quickly dove behind the door and bucked it shut. She ran up the stairs as fast as she could, but before she could make it half way up the stairs, the door exploded behind her. The shock-wave knocked Applejack over and actually pushed her up the stairs, flinging her into the wall behind her. Applejack groaned and slowly stood up, looking down the stairs. Several of the metal skeletons were already striding through the flames and beginning to climb the stairs.
“Oh come on,” Applejack groaned. The skeletons paused and detached their wrists. Applejack grabbed the lantern and sprinted up the next flight of stairs, the flames igniting where she had just been. Applejack didn't hesitate and immediately began climbing the next flight of stairs. She didn't stop for several minutes til her muscles were burning and her lungs ached. Applejack paused and, not hearing any pursuit, walked over to a nearby window to check how high up she had gone. Immediately, Applejack took a step back as her head spun with vertigo. She had apparently climbed more then half the way up the tower and was at an extreme altitude. The view was amazing, with the ruins stretching as far as the eye could see, massive buildings and strange monuments were all around her. Applejack rested, enjoying the view for a few moments before spotting incoming trouble. Three flying vehicles, somewhat like that weird pedal copter Pinkie had made, were approaching fast. They were the same colour as the skeletons downstairs and had long tubes strapped beneath them.
Applejack took cover as the vehicles turned to face her before it launched more explosives to either side of her. She was far enough away, and had enough cover between her that she only suffered a mild ringing noise in her ears, but Applejack knew she'd have to start moving again. Again, she began to run up the stairs, but now explosions would clip at her hooves and knock away her balance. More then once she stumbled and had to scrabble to make up ground as the explosions got closer. Never a moment was she given a chance to rest or to think of a plan. She just ran with the blind hope that safety would lie ahead and the certainty that death laid behind her.
Finally she burst through a door and was left on the roof. The wind tugged at her hat, but Applejack quickly kept it in place with a hoof. The view around her was ignored as Applejack was purely focused on where the next attack would come from. Thus, when the flying machine popped up behind her, she spotted it and started running directly away. It fired multiple times, the explosions following directly behind Applejack as she ran towards the edge of the building. Without hesitation, Applejack leaped off the edge, her jump propelled by the explosions behind her. She tumbled through the air, her vision blurring as she quickly slapped a hoof on her head to catch her hat. As she fell Applejack caught glimpses of the rapidly approaching ground. Ah hope this doesn't hurt too bad, Applejack thought as she closed her eyes.
Next thing she knew the whistling of wind in her ears stopped and she could feel a faint pressure under her hooves. Applejack opened her eyes to see a featureless black void around her, the lantern's light revealing nothing. Applejack hesitantly started to take a step forward but, before her hoof could land, she was interrupted by the landscape changing. The blackness quickly melted away to reveal the main room of Twilight's library.
“Congrats Applejack! I had one more part to the maze but after that last bit with the dramatic jump away from the explosions... Well, what could top that? That, and I felt that it might be going a little too far with that part. I don't actually want to hurt you after all,” Paradox cheered popping out of the lantern which faded away as Paradox sat on the floor.
“Paradox! Were you in that lantern the entire time?” Applejack shouted in surprise.
“Indeed I was,” Paradox nodded. “Now let me explain how this will work. You can ask me any question and I promise that I'll answer it truthfully. I don't promise to provide proof or to answer fully however. But once you leave the library, which you can do at any time, this deal ends and I'll just do whatever I want.”
“So why don't Ah just stay here and keep ya trapped?” Applejack asked, thinking quickly.
“Two reasons; one, there is no water or food in here, you'll have to leave eventually. Two, I can be in two places at once. In fact, I'm doing so right now, one of me is at Canterlot right now,” Paradox said.
“What? How does that work?” Applejack said.
“It's kinda simple once you know the trick to it, I just travel back in time but to a different location. So after this conversation ends, I'll travel back to before it started and keep working on my plans, while past me is going through the whole lantern maze with you,” Paradox explained.
“What was up with that maze anyways? Ah mean both you and Discord had those creepy mazes,” Applejack muttered as she thought about what she had just been told.
“My maze was partly inspired by Discord and partly by some artists from home,” Paradox said, catching the question despite the quiet volume. Applejack ignored him and moved onto her next question.
“Alright then, how do we defeat you?” Applejack asked, staring directly into Paradox's eyes.
“With the Elements of Harmony of course,” Paradox said, grinning.
“Where are the Elements of Harmony?”
“Where you left them,” Paradox replied.
Applejack nodded, “Where did ya send mah friends?”
“I scattered them across space and time. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash are in the far north, beyond Equestria's borders. Pinkie Pie is at some random tropical island. Rarity has been sent back in time to before Equestria was founded, and Twilight has been sent to a different dimension,” Paradox said.
“Well how do we get them back?” Applejack demanded in frustration.
“You don't. Either they make it back on their own or they don't come back at all,” Paradox said pointing at Applejack.
“They will make it back,” Applejack growled, glaring at Paradox.
“Almost certainly, but who knows what'll happen between now and then?” Paradox said with a smile. “Perhaps they'll change their minds about turning me to stone.”
“Fat chance. Now how do Ah break that spell that keeps me trapped in Ponyville?” Applejack asked.
“Again, you can't do anything. The spell can only be broken by a very powerful and skilled unicorn. So, you know, Twilight. Though I suppose the Princesses would be able to break it as well,” Paradox answered.
Good thing Ah sent Derpy with that message. She'll contact the Princesses and they'll bust me outta here lickity-split. Then we can track down Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. “Wait a second, why are Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy together and the rest of us are on our own?” Applejack said, interrupting her own train of thought.
“Ultimately, because the two of them are in a relationship and I'm not cruel enough to split them apart. Also, because I felt like it,” Paradox said.
“How did ya know they were in a relationship? Actually how do ya know anythin' about us in the first place?” Applejack paused for a second then interrupted Paradox as he opened his mouth to speak. “Actually never mind, that's not important. What Ah want to know is what is your plan? What are ya goin' to do next?”
“Why, cause chaos of course,” Paradox said, smirking. Almost perfectly on cue a loud roar came from outside. Applejack quickly dashed out and saw a large fluffy pink dragon dive bombing the town, spraying a brown fluid from its mouth.
“Is-is that a cotton candy dragon with chocolate milk for breath?” Applejack gasped.
“Yup, and you just left the library. So, I'm going to go and find out why I created a cotton candy dragon in the first place. Anyways, good luck slaying the dragon!” with a cheery grin Paradox snapped his fingers and disappeared. Taking a deep breath, Applejack adjusted her hat and charged the dragon, yelling a battle cry.
> Chapter 3.Princesses
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Celestia woke up to the sound of giggling and a faint pressure on her muzzle. She smacked at the unknown presence with a hoof and heard a voice yelp in pain. With a jolt, she remembered what had happened and sprung up. She looked around wildly to see her sister lying unconscious at her side and Paradox on the floor nearby, rubbing his chest where Celestia had hit him.
“Paradox,” Celestia said, eyes narrowing. “What were you doing?”
“Just finishing your makeover,” Paradox said, smirking. “Tell me, what do you think?” he added, pulling a hand mirror out of thin air. Celestia hesitantly levitated the mirror over and looked at her reflection. She couldn't help but smile with relief when she saw that Paradox had only stuck a large black moustache on her muzzle.
“Is that all you've been up to?” Celestia asked hopefully, glancing back over to Paradox. As she moved she heard a clink, and looked down at her leg. A shackle and chain connected her to Luna. She tried opening it with her magic, but she couldn't actually touch the chain or affect it in any way.
“I've made it so that chain is both unbreakable and immune to all sorts of magic,” Paradox explained, seeing Celestia's horn glow, “And before you ask, that still isn't everything I did while you were asleep. Seriously, the two of you have been out of it for such a long time! Though time has gotten a little confusing for me as of late.”
“Oh, and why is that?” Celestia asked, keeping her voice polite. “Wait, who has been taking care of the sun? How long was I out?” Celestia asked, a hint of panic entering her voice.
“Well, that's what I've been working on!” Paradox said, gesturing to the mirror. “Go ahead, take a look!” Curious, Celestia gazed into the mirror. Instead of her own reflection, the mirror showed images of three different sleeping alicorns. Each one looking like her but with slight differences. One had a mane that was pure pink that glittered and danced as the mare slept. Another had a mane of a brilliant sunset, glowing through a spectrum of oranges and reds. The third alicorn differed the most, with a brilliant pink coat, translucent fairy wings, and a bright blue mane.
“What or who are they?” Celestia asked.
“They're you, or rather versions of you. Each one is loosely based off of one of your personality traits and will grow from there,” Paradox explained. He shrunk down to the size of a paperclip and appeared in the mirror. “This one,” he said, pointing to the sunset-maned alicorn, “is based off of your temper and desire to rule. I call her I.H. The pink maned alicorn represents your desires and is very decadent. I call her Molly. Finally, that pink abomination was supposed to be based off of your manipulative and planning side. I'm pretty sure that's not what I got, so I just call it Failure. Regardless, they all think that they are you, and they've been enchanted so that everyone - sorry, everypony - will think that they are you as well. Hmm, what else did I do? Oh yeah, that moustache is a perfect disguise. Even Luna won't recognize you.” Paradox shut up, taking a few deep breaths after rattling all that information off.
“Alright,” Celestia took a deep breath to calm herself, “so why did you do all of that? What do you expect to happen?” she asked.
“...Chaos?” Paradox offered, after a pause. “I'm not really sure why. I suppose so you are kept busy, but really it's just to see what happens. I'm not entirely done yet, I've still got to modify the layout of the palace so that no pony can find their way around.”
“Wait, don't! If you do that then...the government will be thrown into chaos,” Celestia stuttered to a stop, as she realized what she was saying.
“Not only that, but if I didn't then this whole ‘have four Celestias running around’ thing would be solved in, like, five minutes,” Paradox added, before disappearing. Celestia started to stand up, but Luna rolled over jerking her hoof to the side. Celestia sighed and gently jumped over Luna to a more comfortable position.  I hate this. I've been left helpless, and all I can do is hope that Twilight pulls through and saves us yet again.  Celestia thought to herself.  No, I won't give up. This time, Twilight won't have to fight on her own. I don't care if Paradox is more powerful then I am, I'll find a way to fight back.  Celestia poked her sister but seeing no response, she decided to start plan B. Celestia focused on casting an ancient contingency spell that she had never needed to activate before. Celestia's horn glowed, spreading light throughout the room. With a burst of effort, Celestia caused the light to expand further as her horn overglowed. The light quickly expanded to form a bubble over most of the castle. The bubble popped. As it did, every Royal Guard within it appeared before Celestia.
“My loyal guards, I have summoned you here in order to inform you of a great threat to all of Equestria,” Celestia said, regally.
“Who are you?” one guard asked, while other guards began muttering to each other.
“What? Don't you recognize your Princess? I am Celestia of course,” Celestia said, standing in surprise and yanking Luna's hoof towards her shackled leg.
“Our princess doesn't have such a horrific moustache,” one guard declared.
“Yeah. Besides, I was standing guard in Princess Celestia's court right before I was brought here. You can't be the Princess,” another guard chimed in.
“Look, she's got Princess Luna shackled to her,” a guard pointed out.
“She must of knocked Princess Luna out and taken her prisoner, get her!” one guard yelled.
“Charge!” they all screamed as they ran at Princess Celestia. Thinking quickly, Celestia picked Luna up in her magic and ran away. She ran for one of her windows, blowing it and a fair chunk of wall apart with her magic as she leaped out into the air. She flapped her wings frantically, not used to carrying her sister's weight in flight. Meanwhile, roughly half of her guards had been forced to stop, but the pegasi among her troops were still in pursuit. Looking around for a place to hide, Celestia gasped, almost dropping Luna in her surprise. Paradox had already transformed much of the castle to be unrecognizable to her, it's shape resembling nothing more than a mutant sea urchin with wings. The gardens, once a triumph of order and pony engineering, had become an alien jungle of blue and orange plants, with the occasional glimpse of some terrifying monster moving through the thick foliage.
“Surrender the Princess you moustached fiend!” a pegasi guard yelled as he rammed Celestia.
“Ugh,” Celestia grunted, shaking her head and flapping hard to prevent a crash. With a flick of her magic, she sent the guard flying back into his companions. Several of them were knocked out of the air.
“Come on troops, only the Princesses live forever!” one guard yelled, the guards cheered and charged Celestia again.
“I've had enough of this,” Celestia muttered, before unleashing another spell, creating a ball of light between herself and the herd of pegasi. At the last second the ball of light exploded, flinging all of the pegasi back and blinding them. Celestia quickly dove into the jungle below her, and took cover beneath a tree.
“What happened?” a guard yelled.
“She just, just exploded!” another guard yelled.
“Run away!” the guards all shouted before scattering in a panic. Celestia watched them fly away for a few seconds.
“I've really got to raise the standards to get into the Royal Guard,” Celestia sighed, and stared at her sister, still asleep on her back. “How are you still asleep after all of that?” she asked. Not receiving an answer, Celestia sighed again and started walking through the jungle. She only managed a few short steps before vines shot from the grounds, wrapping around her head and horn. Celestia ignited her horn, burning the vines and the ground around herself to ash. She walked on, keeping a shield of flame handy. As she walked, she took a closer look at the plant life. The flowers she looked at were beautiful and smelled delicious. A quick nibble almost made Celestia vomit as her mouth filled with the taste of rancid cantaloupe. Celestia coughed as the plant released a sweet smelling smoke. Once again, Celestia burned the surrounding area, creating a miniature glade in the jungle. Celestia felt a little tipsy from the smoke, and very very thirsty. Spotting what she hoped was a pool of water, Celestia galloped over.
“Wait, this doesn't look like water,” Celestia muttered to herself, staring into the light blue pool. She pulled up a plant and tossed it into the pool. The plant immediately stuck to the top of the pool. Celestia tugged on the plant with her magic, but it seemed to be stuck. Congratulating herself on her foresight, Celestia moved on, following what seemed to be a trail. Up ahead, there was a strange hissing noise. Not wanting to be surprised, Celestia proceeded cautiously. She soon came upon a weird sight; a giant slug was locked in combat with several flying serpents of emerald and jade, with wings of golden light. I think those are the same as the snake that bit me, but they are fighting a giant slug monster, Celestia thought as she watched the slug suddenly move and spit a glob of acidic slime onto one of the serpents. The small bites and scorch marks on the slug were already fading away. Alright, that settles it. No giant, acid spitting slugs that regenerate are allowed in my garden!  Celestia blasted the slug with a stream of fire, engulfing the entire slug in a mighty inferno. To her surprise, the slug surged out of the inferno, moving with surprising speed. It spat a glob of acid at Celestia, who just barely caught it with her telekinesis. She yelped in pain as some small globs escaped her grasp and burned her face.
“I've had enough of this!” Celestia yelled, grabbing the singed slug with her magic. It was harder to lift with her magic than expected, but it still rose in the air, flailing and spitting more globs of acid. “GET OUT OF MY GARDEN!” Celestia screamed as she flung the monstrous slug into the sky. She watched it fly until it disappeared over the horizon before turning around and facing the flying serpents which were simply staring at her. “It's okay, I'm not going to-” Celestia began before one of the serpents hissed and dove at her. Celestia ducked in surprise, narrowly avoiding another bite. She blocked the dives from the other serpents with a simple shield of magic. “Why does everything have to be so difficult?” Celestia demanded, panting in exertion from all of the magic she had been using. One of the serpents hit the shield with its wing of light, and a crack formed in the shield in response. “Oh no way,” Celestia said, renewing the shield with a thought. The other serpents imitated their comrade and also began chipping away at the shield with their wings. Celestia took a deep breath and prepared to see if the serpents were fireproof when a screeching cry interrupted her. Philomena swooped down and snatched out a serpent, gobbling it up in a few snaps of her beak. The rest of the serpents tried to attack the phoenix, but the canny bird had no trouble dispatching them as she flew around Celestia.
“Philomena, am I glad to see you,” Celestia said, grinning at the proud bird. The phoenix cawed and started preening Celestia's mane. “Now I just need to find someplace to hide while I wait for Luna to finally wake up. Can you show me the way?” Celestia asked. Philomena nodded and quickly took off. Celestia followed suit. The pair flew up, heading for one of the new towers sticking out of the increasingly disorderly palace. Just before they landed in the window, a pink cloud appeared overhead and rained chocolate milk all over Celestia and Luna. Celestia groaned but otherwise ignored the inconvenience as she landed inside the tower. Looking around, she noticed it was the mostly abandoned castle dungeons. “Well, at least it's dry and nothing will be bothering us here,” Celestia said to Philomena. As soon as she finished speaking a swarm of pink clouds rushed in, spraying her with chocolate milk and covering her in cotton candy. “PARADOX!” Celestia screamed at the top of her lungs.
“Can I help you Princess?” Paradox asked, rising up from the floor. Celestia glared at him, too tired and upset to be surprised.
“Why do you insist on making my life as difficult as possible? Does my suffering amuse you so?” Celestia hissed.
“What do you mean?” Paradox asked.
“The clouds, the moustache, and my garden! Everything's been attacking me and chasing me all around the place! Now I'm wet, sticky, and stuck in my own dungeon where there certainly isn't some place for me to wash up! Today was going to be such a good day too! Chrysalis had just been defeated and I finally had some time off to simply relax together with Twilight!” Celestia yelled, stomping a hoof.
“I'm sorry,” Paradox apologized. He snapped his fingers and all of cotton candy and chocolate, including what was stuck on Celestia, flew out the window and formed into the shape of a dragon. “So that's how that happened,” Paradox said, watching it fly off towards Ponyville.
“What did you do?” Celestia asked, moving to where she could see out the window.
“Nothing important,” Paradox responded, stamping his foot on the ground and transforming the ground beneath Celestia into a luxurious hot tub. Celestia yelped in surprise as she fell into the water but quickly emerged, levitating Luna beside her.
“What are you up to Paradox? First the pranks and now you're being nice to me. It doesn't make sense,” Celestia said.
“What fun is there in making sense? Ha, you have no idea how much fun it was to say that,” Paradox said, grinning. “Okay, okay. Seriously I do want us to be friends or at least not mortal enemies. Your little outburst there made me think that I'm being a little too hard on you prank wise. I mean, this whole day will likely be hard on you on you regardless. I don't need to be complicating things with the moustache and the cotton candy clouds.”
“How can you expect me to be friends with somepony who has so far stolen my throne and given it to cheap copies, turned my guard against me, transformed my magnificent garden into a lethal jungle full of monsters, and scattered my student and her friends across time and space?” Celestia asked.
“Only if you look at it so negatively; for the first time, you can take a vacation and leave the throne to others. You can finally go around and be treated like a normal pony rather than a princess. I've created a whole new ecosystem that can be studied and appreciated from your front door. As for Twilight, well, you ordered her to turn me to stone. What did you think I was going to do; just stand there and make a funny pose?” Paradox replied.
“You are still putting ponies at risk with that garden, as well as Twilight and her friends wherever they are,” Celestia countered.
“First off, Twilight is perfectly safe - as is Applejack. Secondly, you send them into danger all of the time. Finally, I'm confident that they can handle anything I throw at them,” Paradox said, ignoring the bit about the garden.
“I don't like sending them into danger, I only do so when there is no other choice,” Celestia said, looking down.
“Well, what about that sleeping dragon you sent them to kick out?” Paradox asked.
“They were in no real danger there; no dragon that age would invite my wrath by hurting one of my ponies. Even if the dragon was willing to risk it, I was keeping an eye on the situation. If it got out of hand I would have intervened. Plus, it was an important lesson in leadership skills for Twilight,” Celestia said. Paradox thought about that for a second before nodding.
“Fair enough, and I can't remember any other cases where you sent them into danger when it wasn't an emergency,” Paradox said.
“So you'll bring Twilight and her friends back?” Celestia asked hopefully.
“No, they'll all have to face their challenges and overcome them. Hopefully they'll even learn that chaos doesn't have to be that bad of a thing while they do it. One thing though, why do you always call them 'Twilight and friends'?” Paradox replied.
“Because they are her friends, and I know Twilight the best,” Celestia replied.
“And what is Twilight to you? Your friend? Minion? Faithful student? The leader of the Elements of Harmony? Just another tool you use to maintain order and harmony in Equestria?” Paradox asked.
“No!” Celestia yelled, “Twilight is my friend, and I'd never treat her or any other pony for that matter, as a tool.”
“Friends don't give friends missions,” Paradox countered. “Also, they don't ignore them when they warn you of danger. If you had just listened to Twilight at the wedding that whole disaster with the changlings could have been averted. You brushed her off when she tried to warn her about Nightmare Moon as well.”
“I… made a mistake,” Celestia admitted with a sigh, “I thought that after a thousand years to think, Luna would have calmed down enough for me to talk her out of being Nightmare Moon. As for the royal wedding, I was just so caught up in being happy for Cadence that I wouldn't accept anything that could get in the way of that happiness. But that doesn't change the fact that I let her down both personally and as her ruler.”
“Alright, but did you even apologize?” Paradox asked.
“I was going to do that today, or however long ago you showed up was,” Celestia said. Paradox stared at the sad looking princess for a few moments before lunging forward and giving her a hug. Celestia stiffened but let the strange being hug her. Finally, Paradox seemed to realize what he was doing and backed off, sitting fully clothed on the other end of the hot tub.
“You looked like you needed a hug,” Paradox said, blushing. “Anyways, I'm curious on why you are so sad about not making your date with Twilight.” Paradox gasped and clapped his hands. “That's it! You're in love with Twilight aren't you? And you're upset that I ruined your chance to confess your feelings to her!”
“You're wrong,” Celestia snapped, “While I do love Twilight, it is not in a romantic manner.”
“Oh Celestia, you don't need to lie to me. If you can't trust the successor of your archenemy then who can you trust?” Paradox asked, lazily creating glasses of wine for them both.
“Why should I trust you?” Celestia asked with a snort.
“Because no one will ever believe me,” Paradox said softly. “I could scream the truth about your relationship from the rooftops and everypony would just think that it was a ploy on my part. Also I will answer a question or two of yours in return.”
Celestia stared at Paradox silently for a few moments, sipping the strawberry sweet wine he had provided. “Very well, I shall tell you then. But first, I want you to answer some questions,” she said.
“Alright, shoot,” Paradox said lazily, making a face as he sipped at his own glass.
“First off, where is Discord?” Celestia asked.
“Bleh, boring question. I don't actually know, he gave me his powers and then disappeared, so he could be anywhere in the multiverse by now. Next question, and please make it interesting,” Paradox said.
Celestia thought for a minute or two before speaking. “You've mentioned details of Twilight's and my life that you couldn't possibly know. How do you know so much about us?” she asked.
“Much better,” Paradox clapped in glee, bubbles spraying everywhere and bouncing off the walls. “Now as I hope you have guessed, I'm from another world. In my world, we might have the ability to unknowingly witness segments of the lives of important individuals of other worlds. In the case of Equestria, we observe the adventures of Twilight Sparkle and her friends.”
“Then why-” Celestia said, getting cut off by Paradox.
“No, no, I said one or two questions. Three is right out! So now you have to answer my question; what are your feelings towards your most faithful student, Twilight Sparkle?” Paradox said. Celestia tried to protest, but she was just shushed by Paradox again and again.
“Fine, I'll tell you,” Celestia sighed, giving up. “I want to love Twilight, but right now I can't have a real relationship with her. She's still too caught up in her impression of me as her perfect Princess and teacher, while still continually ignoring her own accomplishments and judgement in favour of my own. I'm afraid that if I court her, she'll accept me not out of love but out of a feeling of duty. So until the day that she's either my equal, pursues the relationship on her own initiative, or stops putting me on a pedestal, I refuse to let myself fall in love with Twilight.”
Paradox stared at Celestia thoughtfully for a few moments, before suddenly chugging down his wine and throwing the glass at the wall at full strength. The glass shattered, transforming into fireworks which exploded around Paradox as he rose out of the water and struck a dramatic pose.
“Do not worry Celestia, for I - Paradox, the Prince of Passion - shall help you achieve your dreams of romance with the lovely Twilight Sparkle! With my help, I'm sure the two of you will be having a wedding of your own in no time! Hmm, I can't have changlings show up though, that was done already. Perhaps a romantic rival? I wonder if I could book Trixie in that position,” Paradox said, spinning around. “No need to thank me Celestia, I'll get started right away,” Paradox added when Celestia tried to protest. With a clap of his hands, he disappeared leaving behind an orchestral band playing wedding music.
Celestia simply stared and closed her eyes, sipping her wine and letting the heat from the hot tube relax her. Well on the bright side, Paradox is actually capable of being nice. And I doubt he'll harm anypony else while he's trying to get Twilight and I to fall in love. On the downside, HE'S GOING TO RUIN EVERYTHING! No, no, Celestia, keep calm. Twilight is in a different dimension, and Paradox will forget about the whole thing as soon as something else catches his attention. Nothing to worry about. I just need to focus on getting her and the other Elements back safely so we can restore harmony. Celestia thought.
“Mmm, Celestia?” Luna murmured, “why am I in a bath?” She flailed her legs around a little before sitting upright beside Celestia. “Your student needs to sleep - who the flying feather are you and where is my sister?” Luna said, interrupting herself when she caught a good look at Celestia.
“I'm Celestia, and yes I know I don't look like her. Paradox enchanted this moustache to disguise me.
“Prove it.”
“When we were just little fillies, you used to have a pet abacus you called Abby,” Celestia said.
“You never shall let me forget that will you? Now what has happened while I slept?” Luna asked. Celestia quickly filled Luna in on what Paradox had done and her adventures throughout the day. She stayed silent on Paradox's promise to help her win Twilight's heart though. She didn't need the teasing from Luna on top of everything else.
“Well Luna, do you have any idea on how we can get Twilight and her friends back?” Celestia asked.
“Not exactly. Twilight was able to give me an idea on where the other Elements may be found, but they all seem to be outside our reach. We-”
“You spoke with Twilight? How is she? Where is she? What's she doing?” Celestia interrupted.
“She's not sleeping, that's why I was unconscious for so long. I needed to wait for her mind to enter a dream before I could contact her. Right now she's inside a gigantic library that supposedly contains all the information in the universe,” Luna said.
“That's great news Luna! She'll be able to return right away then,” Celestia said, ears perking up and a huge grin on her face.
“Actually I told her to stay in the library for now and gather information,” Luna said.
“What? Why would you tell her that?” Celestia yelled.
“Um, well, I thought that Twilight would be safer and more useful there,” Luna said, eyes widening in surprise.
“”Why would you think that? We need Twilight to use the Elements of Harmony,” Celestia said.
“We also need the rest of the Element bearers. If she comes back before everything is prepared, Paradox can just send her off someplace else, or worse,” Luna replied.
“That's… that's true,” Celestia sighed. “So what do you think we should do now? We can't just sit tight and wait for Twilight's friends to return home.”
“Indeed. We must find some way to thwart Paradox in his plan to bring chaos to Equestria. Sheer force is clearly out of the picture, but perhaps we can keep the fallout of his actions in check. “Starting with this shackle binding us together,” Luna said, transforming into a sparkling mist. She quickly reformed a few feet away. “Next, we must figure out a way to defeat those three imposters Paradox has created. I think simply confronting them will do. I'm sure when we do it shall prove easy enough to prove their identities.”
“It's not as simple as that Luna. First off, Paradox has transformed our palace into a maze, so even finding them will be a challenge. Secondly, my royal guardsponies think I'm an imposter. They'll do their best to protect the imposters. Finally, I wouldn't put it past my little ponies to be too silly to notice the difference between the imposters and myself. So they may think that you are trying to overthrow me and take over Equestria again,” Celestia said.
“Then we simply must convince the common pony of the legitimacy of our actions! Either by somehow removing that silly moustache, or by summoning Cadence back home,” Luna said, as she cast a spell summoning her royal guard to her. The few ponies that served Luna slowly arrived, making their way through the maze with Luna's magic as their beacon. The collection of bat ponies, unicorns, and the occasional earth pony stood at attention as they awaited the Princess's command.
“We await your command Princess,” they chorused.
“First, we command that you seek our niece, Princess Cadenza. Next, the castle is currently home to three doppelgangers of my sister. We want you to find them, observe them, and gather evidence that they are doppelgangers. If they give any questionable demands, then it will be your duty to thwart them! Now fly my minions!” Princess Luna said, her guards scattering to do her bidding as soon as she stopped speaking. “Now let's get started on removing that moustache,” Luna added, approaching Celestia with a glint in her eyes.  
	

> Chapter 3.Paradox
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 I reappeared high in the sky and started to fall, laughing the entire way. This was going to be so much fun! But first, I need a plan. It's one thing to randomly create a massive jungle out of the Royal Gardens, but messing up here would ruin any chance I had of becoming Celestia's friend. If she wouldn't be my friend, then Twilight wouldn't be my friend, and so on and so forth. Anyways, the point is I couldn't just rush into this like I had been doing.
“What to do, what to do,” I mused as I stared at the rapidly enlarging ground. “You know, I'm really having a hard time thinking with all this roaring wind, how about you?” I asked a bowl of petunias that had appeared beside me. I laughed as the bowl sprouted wings and flew away before teleporting to the ground. Despite my peaceful and quiet surroundings of an empty grass plain, I still couldn't focus, so I closed eyes and tried to meditate.
Almost immediately, my feet began to itch. I twitched and tried to ignore it. However, it got worse and worse, travelling up my legs and the palms of my hands. Stubbornly, I started to hum, trying to block out the feeling with noise. In response, the itching transformed into biting, as if thousands of ants had all decided to bite me at once. I jumped to my feet with a yelp and opened my eyes. My hands and legs were covered in fire, so I quickly peeled it off with my hands and threw the fire on the ground.
“Now where did you come from? Come on, speak up!” I demanded of the fire. It quickly shifted to look like a foal made purely out of flames, and it stared up at me with a quivering lip.
“I'm sorry mister,” the flame foal said, sniffing back sparks from it's eyes.
“HAHAHAHAHA, it's alive!” I yelled, throwing my head back and laughing into the sky. The flame foal just stared at me in shock and took a nervous step back. “Now little flame thingy, I bet you're lonely all by yourself. It's time I made you some friends,” I said, before the flame foal could run away. I took a swan dive into the dirt quickly tunneling nearly a hundred meters below ground. I spat out a glob of lava and quickly flew up the tunnel, a massive geyser of flame following me. I landed beside the flame foal as the fiery geyser erupted, with it's sparks forming new flame foals.
“There you go, lot's of new friends to play with. Now I've got to be going,” I said, quickly teleporting myself someplace else without waiting for a reply. “Now what was I thinking about before? Ummmmmm, right! I've got to get Twilight in love with Celestia,” I said to myself. “But I've got no idea how to go about this, and meditating on the problem sets myself on fire. So I'm going to need some help with this one. But who could I ask?”
I randomly flickered through space and time, letting the images form a blur in front of me. A flash of pink caught my attention and I stopped time, revealing a young Princess Cadence stuck in the middle of walking down a hallway. That's it! Cadence will be able to help me, she's supposed to be the Princess of Love or something like that,  I thought to myself. I quickly teleported myself back to present time, and into Twilight's library. Alright, she's got to have a copy of a newspaper or paparazzi magazine around here somewhere, wait, no that's Rarity's thing. I popped over to Rarity's house and began searching for a newspaper or a magazine about the royal family. I found quite a collection of them, and though I was amused by the one claiming that Celestia had proposed to Twilight, I couldn't find any details about where Princess Cadence's honeymoon was at.
“So once again the paparazzi have failed to provide any useful information to anyone. I'm glad to know some things are a universal constant,” I muttered to myself as I paced. “Got it! The Royal Guard should know where they are at,” I snapped my fingers and disappeared.
I reappeared in the barracks, surrounded by Royal Guards, who immediately grabbed their weapons and attacked. So I transformed into a dragon, the impenetrable scales serving to deflect basically everything the Royal Guards could throw at me. It was going fine until one of them bucked me in the face, knocking me to the ground as the guards all jumped on me to try and hold me down. I growled and roared as I grew in size, shaking the Royal Guard off like a dog shakes off water.
“Where is Princess Cadence?” I yelled, the barracks shattering as I stretched out my new wings.
“W-w-who?” stammered out the guard currently held prisoner beneath my talons.
“Princess Cadence. You know, pink alicorn, has love powers, recently married to your captain?” I asked.
“W-we'll never tell you monster,” the guard said defiantly. The rest of the Royal Guard rallied and began to attack me once more, their spears bouncing futilely off of my scales, and their bolts of magic having no effect on my massive body. I weathered their assault for a few moments before sighing.
“Look, you aren't doing anything. I mean, ten out of ten for bravery, but I'm much too strong for you to be fighting me. I feel like I'm fighting a pack of toddlers here,” I said, gently swatting the guards with his wings and claws.
“The Royal Guard will never back down while a threat to Her Highness exists,” a guard screamed as he repeatedly kicked my leg.
“You know what? I'm done with this,” I said, clapping my hands and teleporting back to Twilight's library and promptly wrecked her roof. “Right, I probably should have changed back before teleporting, or at least not teleported directly into the library. Oh well, no sense crying over destroyed homes,” I said. I shrank down to Spike's size and grabbed a piece of paper, wrote 'to Cadence' on it, and rolled it up into a scroll
“I hope this works,” I said, breathing fire over the scroll reducing it to a cloud of smoke. It sat there for a few seconds before finally heading off. I transformed back and chased after it, destroying another wall in the process. I followed it across Equestria, until it finally arrived at a place where rainbows literally formed pools as they fell from the skies. I followed the cloud of smoke, stopping directly outside of an incredibly opulent building. I transformed back into a human before throwing the doors open and entering.
“Umm, how can I help you?” A mare behind a desk asked meekly. She stared up at me, her eyes wide but meeting my own.
“Hello, Ms. Note Taker,” I said, reading the nameplate on the desk. “I was wondering if you could tell me if this is where Shining Armor and Princess Cadence were having their honeymoon?”
“...Yes it is, but, um, what are you? Some sort of minotaur?” Note Taker asked. I smiled as some dark blue fur grew all over by body and two bull horns popped out of my head.
“Looks like it,” I said, smiling. “Now can I talk to Princess Cadence please?” Note Taker stared at me, mouth hanging open. I waited patiently as she rallied her thoughts to answer me.
“I'm sorry sir, but the Princess is still sleeping. Even if she was awake I'm not sure she'd deign to meet any petitioners. She is on vacation after all,” Note Taker said.
“Tch, that's right. You know, now that I think about it I don't really want to disturb her after what happened at the wedding,” I said, turning back into a human. “Oh hey, a breakfast lounge. I haven't eaten in...wow, when was the last time I ate? Anyways, I'm going to grab myself a scone.”
“Wasn't his hair brown before?” Note Taker muttered as I walked away. I payed no attention to her though, too caught up in the delicious smell of freshly cooked pastries. I had just started munching on a scone when a Royal Guard burst into the room.
“I have a message for Princess Mi Amore Cadenza,” he shouted. I stretched my arm across the room and grabbed his entire head with my suddenly enlarged hand. I retracted my arm suddenly, pulling the guard towards me in half a second.
“Now listen carefully. Princess Cadence is on vacation and is sleeping. She is not to be disturbed. Normally this would be the point where I'd let you go on your merry way, but really you Royal Guards have been absolutely ruining my day. So I'm going to flat out banish you to a nice tropical island with lots of food, water, and absolutely no way for you to get home. Bye bye now,” I said, tossing the shocked stallion through a portal. “You didn't see anything,” I said, pointing to Note Taker with a smile.
“Did I hear somepony call my name?” Princess Cadence said, yawning as she walked over.
“I didn't see anything!” Note Taker shrieked, bolting out of the hotel.
“Umm,” Cadence said, looking around. “Gah? What in Equestria are you?” she asked, point at me with a hoof.
“I'm a human, nice to meet you,” I said, smiling.
“Hi, do you know what was wrong with Ms. Note Taker?” Cadence asked.
“I guess I must have spooked her,” I said, shrugging.
“How so?” Cadence asked, raising an eyebrow.
“Well, just look at me, I'm tall, have patchy fur, beady eyes, and my arms are super stretchy,” I said, stretching my arm across the room again. Cadence's eyes went wide and she opened her mouth to speak but I kept talking right over her. “Yeah, it was probably the arms that pushed her over the edge.”
“Oookay, so Mr. Human, do you know who was calling my name?” Cadence asked.
“That was me. I heard you were in town and I have a question to ask you, but then Note Taker reminded me that you were on vacation so I should probably just leave you to relax,” I said.
“Well I'm just eating breakfast right now while Shiny sleeps, so feel free to ask your question while we eat,” Cadence said, grabbing some muffins for herself.
“Thank you, Princess. You see, a friend of mine is in love with another pony, but she's too nervous to ask her out. Can you give me some advice on how I can get these two together?” I asked.
“Your friend? Is she another human?” Cadence asked, popping a muffin in her mouth.
“What? Oh no, they're both ponies. As far as I can tell I'm the only human in Equestria,” I said.
“Doesn't that get lonely? Don't you miss your family and friends?” Cadence asked.
“No. Why would I?” I asked, tilting my head to the side.
“Because you might never see them again, and I'm sure you had a lot of good memories and times with them that you'll never be able to experience again,” Cadence said.
“Sure, but that's all in the past. The only thing that matters is the present and the future. Dreaming about the past is stupid when you can be making new memories right now. Anyways, enough with the philosophy. Can you answer my question please?” I said. Cadence gave me a look, but nodded.
“Alright, first off do you know if the other friend likes her back?” she asked.
“No, I don't,” I said.
“Well, that's a good place to start. If they like each other then you can invite them both to some sort of activity and try and give them as much time together as possible. If they don't like each other, that's when things get complicated. I'd avoid getting involved in that case,” Cadence said.
“Great, thanks,” I said, finishing off my last scone and standing up to leave. “It was a pleasure to meet you. Congratulations and have a fun honeymoon,” I added as I stretched my arm to the door, yanking myself out of the room. I had a place to start, and an excuse to talk to Twilight some more. This was going to be so much fun!  
> Chapter 4. Rarity
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 “Wait!” Rarity shouted before Starswirl blasted her with a spell. To her surprise the spell did nothing but make her glow briefly.
“Hmm, that’s strange. Any doppelganger or changling would be forced to revert to their true form after being hit with that spell,” Starswirl said, stroking his beard.
“Then clearly I'm not a doppelganger or changling,” Rarity said calmly, her heart pumping.
“An illusion then,” Starswirl said, firing off another beam of magic. Better prepared this time, Rarity just stood there and let the magic wash over her to no effect.
“I'm not covered in an illusion either,” Rarity said. “I am in fact Princess Platinum.”
“That's impossible, if you are Princess Platinum then how did you know the results of my top secret research?” Starswirl asked.
“It's a rather unbelievable story, but I assure you it is the truth. I am from the future,” Rarity said.
“What? Sending a pony back in time would take an unbelievable amount of energy. Not even the entire unicorn tribe working together would be able to perform such a feat,” Starswirl said.
“I have to admit the solution you came up with was quite ingenious. Rather then sending back an actual pony, you instead displaced the mind of a single pony and had that mind possess their past self,” Rarity said, smiling and staring directly into Starswirl's eyes.
“Hrmph, well it should be easy enough to tell if you are telling the truth or not,” Starswirl said, breaking eye contact with Rarity.
“It will?” Clover asked, surprised.
“Indeed. Nopony move, I shall return shortly,” Starswirl said, disappearing in a flash of light.
“Rarity what are you doing? He's going to figure out you're lying and then he will arrest you, and then the princess will be lost forever,” Clover hissed, rushing over to Rarity.
“Trust me darling, now he'll be back any moment so please don't distract me,” Rarity said, waving away Clover's concerns with a hoof. She growled at Rarity but backed off just as Starswirl reappeared holding a ornate lantern, covered in prisms that caught the light, covering the entire thing in a flurry of rainbows.
“The Lantern of Truth! Are you sure you want to use that Master? It can only be used once a year, and even then you only get three questions,” Clover said, with a gasp.
“Yes, I am sure. This sort of emergency is precisely why I sought it out in the first place. Now Princess, simply answer my questions truthfully and this matter will be settled one way or the other,” Starswirl said, clearing his throat. Rarity nodded and he proceeded. “My first question is this: Are you the pony known as Princess Platinum?” he said, moving the lantern so that a beam of rainbow light shone over Rarity.
“Yes, I am,” Rarity said. The beam glowed but otherwise stayed the same as the flame burned lower.
“My second question is this: Is your mind from the future?”
“Yes, it is,” Rarity said, again to no effect, as the light grew dimmer.
“My last question is this: Why did you come to the past?”
“I was sent to the past to ensure that we survive the upcoming disaster and so that our future is a prosperous one,” Rarity said. Again the beam didn't change, staying solid before disappearing with the flame of the lantern. Clover stared at Rarity, mouth ajar and eyes wide.
“My apologies for doubting you Princess,” Starswirl said, giving Rarity a small bow.
“It's perfectly alright. I knew that believing such a story would be difficult,,” Rarity said.
“I take it that's what the Princess wanted to discuss with you Clover?” Starswirl asked.
“Ah, yes!” Clover replied, snapping out of her shock.
“Makes sense I suppose. Not even her father is as close to Princess Platinum as you are,” Starswirl mused. “Well, what is the big disaster that you came to warn us about Princess?” he asked, turning his attention back to Rarity.
“It's the war with the pegasi. Despite the new spells you created, and despite the element of surprise, we were still slaughtered,” Rarity said, gravely.
“What? How is that possible? After we eliminate the defensive advantages their flight gives them, they should prove easy prey to our magic,” Starswirl said, stomping a hoof.
“I told you already, that wing spell of yours is simply too fragile. The pegasi didn't even need to touch our troops to send them all plummeting to the ground. A small storm was enough to wipe out an entire army of our finest ponies,” Rarity said, bowing her head in fake sorrow.
“And the cloudwalking spell?” Starswirl said, staring at Rarity in dread.
“They would simply destroy the clouds underneath our ponies' hooves,” Rarity said, sadly.
“But surely that wasn't enough to lose the war for us,” Starswirl pleaded, tears springing to his eyes.
“In of itself no. But we put a lot of ponies into that attack, thinking to gain a decisive advantage early on, but instead we merely handed a huge advantage over to the pegasi. Plus our aggressive actions was apparently all the pegasi needed to formalize an alliance with the earth ponies. After losing so many unicorns, we simply didn't have a chance against the combined forces of the other two tribes,” Rarity said.
“The earth ponies? You must be kidding me. Those idiots can barely manage to grow food let alone fight battles,” Starswirl said, composing himself.
“You'll pay for that attitude if you aren't careful. The earth ponies have been working on machines capable of shattering this castle, or to take to the skies,” Rarity said, sternly. Starswirl stayed silent, thinking.
“So what now?” Starswirl asked.
“Simple enough, we simply point out the flaws in your spells during testing and call off the attack. That should be enough to divert the future, but just in case we'll play it safe and try and keep things peaceful for an entire year,” Rarity said.
“Very well princess, I'll leave you to handle the political problems while I continue working on my spells. Come with me Clover,” Starswirl said, leaving the room.
“Sorry, princess. I'll be back soon to help,” Clover said, bowing her head to Rarity as she ran after Starswirl. Rarity headed back to her room. Okay, I got through that conversation, but what now? What does Princess Platinum do from day to day? I got lucky with Starswirl, but next time things might not be as obvious.  Rarity thought as she walked along.
“Excuse me Princess Platinum, may I have a moment of your time?” A light blue unicorn with a golden blond mane asked.
“What do you require?” Rarity said. Darn, this is exactly what I hoped wouldn't happen!  she thought to herself, forcing herself to look casually bored.
“I just wanted to know if Starswirl had finished giving you your orders for the week. Because stars forbid you actually having to think for yourself for a change,” the mare said, smirking. Rarity paused for a second shocked, before glaring at the mare.
“At least Starswirl is capable of intelligent conversation, unlike some ponies I could mention,” Rarity said, with a sniff. She seems to be one of Platinum's political rivals, so responding in kind is my best bet here. Platinum may be a princess, but from what Clover told me, she's also kind of a jerk,  Rarity thought.
“I'm sure the rants about magical theory and old dry artifact and spells are so fascinating and useful,” the mare said, sarcasm dripping from every word. “After all I'm sure the details about the unicorn nobility are nothing but so much drivel in comparison. It's not like their opinions decide the fate of our tribe or anything.”
“Speaking of, I have to go and get back to the actual business of running the kingdom. You have fun with your pointless little projects,” Rarity said, raising her nose in the air and walking away.
“Yes, go continue your warmongering and stirring up fear! Well let me tell you something princess, I, Duchess Luminous Star, will not stand for it. We'll see how many ponies will answer your call to war. We'll see the worth of your Royal blood when you ask others to shed their own,” Luminous Star shouted after her. Rarity winced internally as she walked away. Great, my rivals are after peace and I'm supposed to be a warmongering brute. Now I've got to somehow take the opposite stance, without breaking character.  Rarity thought with a sigh. She reached her private quarters without further incident and began to search through Princess Platinum's private possessions. I need to find some sort of diary or something so I can get an idea of what Princess Platinum is really like. Surely she must have had something,  Rarity thought as she searched the room. The dresser was a covered in gems, rings, and other jewelry, the closet was full of glittering gowns that Rarity happily tried on, underneath the bed was nothing at all, and even between the mattresses had no luck. Eventually there was a knock on the door.
“Princess Platinum, may I enter?” Clover asked formally. Rarity gave her permission and upon enquiry, told Clover what she was searching for. “Her diary? I'm not supposed to know where about it, but… well I've made it my business to know everything about the princess,” Clover said, walking over to a bookshelf. Taking out a few thick books on the genealogy of the royal family revealed a hidden panel set in the wall. “It's a magical lock, so you'll have to open it yourself,” Clover said.
“All right,” Rarity said, lowering her horn and inserting it into the lock. A small surge of magic later and the panel opened, revealing a very pink and glittery diary. The words 'My Diary' were embroidered on the cover in crushed sapphires, with several hearts accompanying them. “While I'm reading would you mind writing down the ponies who dislike the princess?” Rarity asked, flipping the book open.
“Yes, my princess,” Clover said, with a bow. Rarity got to reading through the diary.


ENTRY 1

Dear diary,
Today I got to lead the Ceremony of the Night for the first time! I will admit to you, my most secret and faithful confidant, that I was nervous. So many unicorns staring up at me, waiting for my signal, my command. But then it began and oh it was glorious! Feeling the power of all the unicorns coming together, becoming more then what we could be just by ourselves. And all of it funnelling into me under my direction. The rush was amazing, I felt I could perform miracles! I focused beyond the horizon and at my behest the moon rose and the sun fell. I was so enraptured, that I barely noticed how exhausted I was by the end of it. Truly the unicorns are the most blessed tribe, for only we can come together in unity to perform feats unheard of in our lesser cousins,

Your Princess,
Platinum.

“That wasn't very useful,” Rarity muttered, as she sped read through the next entries. Most were minor, talking about trivial events and minor complaints. Finally she spotted something interesting.


ENTRY 54

Dear Diary,
Today the famous adventurer Starswirl the Bearded returned, his cart full of strange and mystical artifacts. I didn't get to see it them personally, but I'm sure I will soon. Why? Because rumour is that Starswirl is looking for an apprentice to teach his many secrets to! And who else but a princess is worthy of such a honour? That ugly sow Luminous Star? I don't think so. Oh, I can't wait!

Your Princess,
Platinum


ENTRY 55

Dear Diary,
I can't believe this outrage! Starswirl picked a peasant to be his apprentice. A peasant! This is a direct insult to the every noble unicorn. Starswirl is saying that he's so important, that he has complete control over who he chooses as apprentice and that he has no respect for the obvious superiority of the royal blood! Well I won't stand for it. I may not be able to contest Starswirl's choice, but I can order around this 'Clover' as much as I please. Let's see how long this apprentice lasts when she's too busy doing my chores to relax!

Your Princess,
Platinum


ENTRY 71

Dear Diary,
I may have misjudged Clover. That is one determined peasant, who despite having to put up with my chores, plus whatever worthless job I can imagine, has still managed to excel as Starswirl's apprentice.
She's pretty friendly too, always willing to chat about whatever she's learning. She's even offered to introduce me to Starswirl. I think I'll take her up on that, as well as make her my permanent hoof-maiden.

Your Princess,
Platinum


ENTRY 74

Dear Diary,
Starswirl is amazing! So smart and wise. When I asked him why he chose a low born peasant as his apprentice, he told me that an important pony like myself would be far to busy with affairs of the state to be constantly working as his apprentice. Only a filly like Clover would work. He did say I was welcome to show up whenever I wished. I can't wait to see what happens next!

Your Princess,
Platinum.

Rarity rubbed her eyes. The information was interesting, and it might be useful, but so much of it was mundane, and useless information. She skipped forward a few hundred pages and skimmed over the entries until something interesting popped up.


ENTRY 1942

Dear Diary,
It seems it's finally time for me to meet my first pegasi as Starswirl is taking Clover and I on a reconnaissance mission to show us exactly what we are up against. I just hope I'm not too disgusted by how barbaric they are. My father is having a lunch, and I don't wish to ruin my appetite. Besides that it seems that Luminous Shield has been spreading rumours about me and Clover. Jealous sow couldn't get a stallion if he was blind, ugly, and crippled. I'll know what will silence these rumours. Luminous is holding a party next week, and I'll be escorted by none other then Duke Eclipse.

Your Princess,
Platinum


ENTRY 1943

Dear Diary,
This is- There aren't words for what I saw! Starswirl brought us up to the top of mount Canterhorn. The view was spectacular of course, but after Starswirl set up his telescope the tiny colourful dots in the distant sky were revealed to be pegasi! They were so beautiful, so free, prancing in the air. Well at least I thought they were prancing, but suddenly I saw a pegasi fall from the sky! I tried to follow with the telescope, but I was too slow and he disappeared from sight. I asked Starswirl what was happening, and he told me that it was a military training exercise that the pegasi were performing. I asked about if the pegasi got injured in training, and he said that he wouldn't be surprised if those savages killed each other in training. The thought of one of those pretty pegasi lying cold and silent on the ground sends shivers down my spine. That simply will not do! Under my control I'm sure that the pegasus ponies will prosper and will learn to adore the unicorns.

Your Princess,
Platinum


ENTRY 1944

Dear Diary,
Was Eclipse always so boring? When I took him to Luminous Shield's party, all he was doing was preening and boasting about his non-existent achievements. Still he served his purpose, as I could see the jealousy in Luminous Shield's eyes as we talked to her. Naturally she tried to insult me by saying that my dreams of conquering the pegasi was 'cruel and an affront to the proud traditions of the unicorn tribe.' What balderdash! The only tradition Luminous cares about is the one that demands that she gets cake at every party. Still it's an argument that will hold weight with unicorns too dim to see though the transparent lies Luminous presents. I'll have to find more allies before I can propose my plan.

Your Princess,
Platinum


ENTRY 1957

Dear Diary,
My search for allies has been successful. Starswirl, of course, saw the wisdom of my plan and has pledged his magic, and advice to helping subjugate the pegasi. At first Eclipse was useless, saying that he couldn't see why he should put in the effort. I convinced him that he should join, so that he may claim his spot in history through the glory of battle. Needless to say he bought it, and has now joined the Unicorn Noble Defence Force. With Starswirl's and my connections he should advance in the ranks quickly. Falling Gems took some persuading, but she joined the cause as well after I promised her a quite frankly ridiculous amount of money. Still I'd pay ten times that amount if it meant our victory over the pegasi.

Your Princess,
Platinum


ENTRY 1958

Dear Diary,
That blasted sow strikes again! Luminous Shield went straight to my father with a petition of her followers, asking for a guarantee against war. Luckily papa denied them a full promise. He did say though that he would only consider a war if evidence was presented that the Pegasi tribe was planning to attack us, or if he was confident that we had an overwhelming advantage in battle.

So now we've got to either plant evidence that the pegasi are planning on attacking, or create some sort of spell that would assure our victory. It's a setback but it'll only make my victory over Luminous Shield all the sweeter when it occurs.


Your Princess,
Platinum


ENTRY 2249

Dear Diary,
It's been ages since I last wrote but finally there is some news beyond the occasional progress report on the war efforts. Starswirl has finally finished his wing and cloudwalking spells! Now we can finally prepare our assault forces. A simple test to make sure the spells work as they are supposed to and then I will show them off to the court! Only a few days away before we can begin the total domination of the Pegasi Tribe.

Your Princess,
Platinum.

Rarity sighed in relief as she closed the book. I cannot believe how awful this princess is. Wanting to enslave an entire race, simply because you're attracted to them? Disgraceful. And I have to pretend to be this pony. Alright Rarity, you need a plan! How do you turn a beastly princess into a pony partially responsible for founding Equestria? Without anypony figuring out that said princess is being inhabited by a pony from the future?  Rarity thought, rubbing her chin. Well in the myth, Princess Platinum was still a rude and overbearing mare. But she didn't lead them into war. Let's see, there was a neverending blizzard, a meeting between the tribes, and then the migration. Or did the meeting come first? 
“Clover dear, can you come here for a second please?” Rarity called.
“Yes, Princess,” Clover said, quickly entering the room. “Also you shouldn't be so polite. You are a princess, and it is for you give out orders, not requests.”
“My apologies. Regardless I have some questions for you. First off do the tribes meet with any regularity?” Rarity asked.
“No, not really. The closest thing to a meeting between tribes is when we pick up the food grown by the Earth ponies. The only time when all three tribes come together is when there is a major disaster threatening all of us,” Clover explained.
“I see,” Rarity said. Well that fits with what I know of the legend.  She thought to herself. “Clover, I was hoping you could help me with a problem. You see, Princess Platinum's policies are aimed to starting a war with the pegasi. Obviously I'm very opposed to such an idea. What's more I don't think a war happened before Equestria was founded. However I can't simply backtrack on her policies, as that would almost certainly result in me being revealed. So how I can I sabotage myself so things end up more peaceful, while it appears that I'm trying to start a war?” Rarirty said.
“Well that is possible, but I'm not sure I should help you. You are acting against my princess's objectives and the consequences of your decisions won't simply disappear when you relinquish your possession of her body,” Clover said.
“My goal is to get home to my own time, and I'm doing what I think is best. Until I succeed though, I'm stuck here in this body. So unless you want your princess to be possessed forever, you'll help me keep the peace between the different tribes,” Rarity said, giving Clover a pointed look. Clover sighed in defeat and nodded.
“Alright. As I'm sure you've realized from reading Princess Platinum's diary, there is a rival faction of unicorns that are trying to make sure that there isn't a war between the unicorns and the pegasi. If you boast about some plan to prove why the unicorns should go to war with the pegasi, showcase the plan publicly, and then sabotage the plan to backfire so that your actions provide more reasons for the unicorns to remain at peace,” Clover said.
“That shouldn't be too hard. We even have the perfect opportunity with showcasing the flight spell of Starswirl's,” Rarity said, smiling.
“I'm afraid not. Since you've already pointed out the weakness of that spell to Starswirl he will refuse to let it be showcased publicly until he has created an improved version of the spell. After all a poorly designed spell reflects poorly upon him, and he does have authority on whether or not the spell is considered ready to be shown to the public,” Clover said, shaking her head.
“I see. Let me think,” Rarity said, pacing back and forth. “I've got it! No unicorns really know what the other tribes are like correct?”
“Correct, Princess. Only a few ponies, like Starswirl have bothered to travel outside our lands at all,” Clover said. “Except for the King of course. He personally picks up the food from the Earth ponies, and talks to the pegasi to organize our weather.”
“Perfect. I will propose an expedition to investigate the pegasi. I will say that it will prove that the pegasi are a threat once and for all, and therefore we should be preparing to fight them. But once everypony learns what pegasi are actually like any chance of fighting will be ended,” Rarity said, bouncing in excitement.
“That could work,” Clover said, after thinking it over for a few moments.
“It will work. Now make the arrangements for me to present my idea to the court, the sooner the better,” Rarity said, with a wide smile on her face.
“Yes, Princess. But first it is time for the Ceremony of the Rising Moon and it is your turn to lead the ritual,” Clover said. Rarity's smile faltered and faded as she processed Clover's words.
“...Raise the moon?” she managed to gasp before passing out on the floor.
> Chapter 4.Paradox
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Paradox laughed as he bounced around town, before growing a pair of wings and flying into the sky.
“This is perfect! I'll find out if Twilight loves Celestia, and then go tell Celestia! Perhaps I'll make a singing telegram out of it, or even better a parade. Yeah, that's it. Anyways after I assure Celestia that Twilight loves her back, she's sure to accept me as a friend, and then I don't need to worry about being turned into stone at all. Then I can become friends with the Mane 6 and enjoy an eternity of friendship and chaos. But wait, what if Twilight doesn't like her back? Celestia might blame me,” Paradox said, conjuring a floating mirror and staring into his reflection.
“Why would she do that? That doesn't make sense,” his reflection asked, raising an eyebrow.
“Love doesn't make sense. She'll blame me, because I'm an easy target to blame and it'll let her work out her hurt feelings,” Paradox countered, jabbing a finger at the mirror.
“Touche,” the reflection said. “But couldn't we let her down easy?”
“And how do you propose we do that? We were never exactly known for our grace and subtly,” Paradox replied.
“Touche again. Wait, I've got it! If we find out Twilight doesn't love Celestia, then we just won't tell her,” the reflection said, nodding in satisfaction at it's brilliance.
“That would only work until Twilight talked to her about it,” Paradox countered.
“But Twilight is trapped in that infinite library of knowledge. She'll never get to Celestia to talk to her about her feelings anyways,” the reflection protested.
“If you truly think that Twilight will be trapped in that library forever, then you are dumber then you look. Sure it might distract her for a while, perhaps even a long time, but she's not going to abandon her friends for books, no matter how many or interesting they might be,” Paradox said. The reflection frowned.
“How about....how about we learn what she thinks about Celestia, without her knowing about it? That way if it's bad we can just pretend to forget about it, and nopony will be the wiser.”
“That could work,” Paradox said, conceding the point with a nod. “But like I said, I'm not that subtle, so I don't think it will work.”
“Ah, but you're Paradox, Lord of Chaos, Change, and Growth. You say you aren't subtle, then become someone who is subtle,” the reflection declared, dramatically flinging it's arms in the air. Paradox smiled and nodded, declaring the plan to be perfect. With a snap of his fingers and a small pop, he appeared silently behind Twilight, whose attention was focused on the magical orb in front of her.
“BOO!” he shouted, watching her spring up in surprise with a smile on his face.
“Paradox! What do you think you're doing?” she shouted back.
“Oh, nothing much. I was bored and figured I'd drop in,” Paradox said, sitting down.
“Uh huh,” Twilight said, skeptically.
“Okay, I just had the most interesting conversation with Celestia and I decided to get your take on it,” Paradox said.
“Princess Celestia,” Twilight said, automatically.
“She's not my princess,” Paradox said, smirking.
“You will address her with respect, and that means using her title,” Twilight demanded That's a good sign. But it doesn't mean much. I already knew that Twilight considered Celestia an important pony who was worthy of respect.  Paradox thought.
“Fine, Princess Celestia and I had an interesting conversation and I wanted to know what you thought about it,” Paradox said, prompting Twilight.
“So what were you talking about?” Twilight asked, sighing and giving up on trying to use the orb.
“About love, and if an immortal can truly have a loving relationship with a mortal so much longer then they are. Also if such a love was worth it, as they'd have to watch their lover grow old and die,” Paradox said.
“Of course they can and such a relationship is completely worth it. Now what does that have to do with me?” Twilight asked.
“Well, after Luna you are the pony closest to her heart,” Paradox said, winking.
“I'm glad to hear that Princess Celestia values my friendship so much,” Twilight said, her eyes drifting back to the orb. Paradox face palmed behind her. Alright, apparently I was a little too subtle. I guess I need to be tad more blunt,  he thought.
“Oh? Are you really just friends?” Paradox asked.
“What do you mean?” Twilight asked, sighing and turning her attention back to Paradox.
“Well, wasn't your main goal for the Grand Galloping Gala was to just spend the night with Celes- I mean Princess Celestia?” Paradox asked.
“I hadn't seen her in a while, and I wanted to talk to her in private about everything I had learned and experienced since moving to Ponyville. Also, I did miss the conversations I used to have with her, when I was learning from her in Canterlot,” Twilight said.
“It still seems to be a little extreme. I mean every single thing Princess Celestia tells you to do, you do, no matter what it is. There's a dragon? You're on the job, despite her having enough power to deal with it easily. She coming by for a visit? You make sure everything is absolutely perfect. She tells you to organize a festival on the day you think there is going to be an invasion by a her evil sister, you focus so much on your work you don't get any research done. Don't you ever question on why she's giving you such weird and dangerous tasks?” Paradox asked.
“Princess Celestia knows what's best for me, and I trust her to make that choice. Now how did you even know all of that?” Twilight asked, narrowing her eyes in suspicion.
“Don't try and change the subject. I want to know why you follow Princess Celestia's orders to fanatically,” Paradox said, waving away her concerns.
“I have faith, and I'm not trying to change the subject. I want to know how you've been spying on me! Not even my friends know some of that stuff,” Twilight said, starting to get angry.
Well, I guess that's my answer. Twilight doesn't seem to be in love with Celestia, she's too busy worshipping her,  Paradox thinks, sighing.
“Stop ignoring me!” Twilight yells.
“Geez, calm down. Now what were you saying?” Paradox asked.
“How do you know so much about my friends and I?” Twilight asked through gritted teeth.
“Oh that. Well to be honest I'm not sure how. I do know that your adventures, and that of your friends have been publicized, kinda like Daring Do. Except no one knows that it's actually real,” Paradox said.
“That...makes no sense at all,” Twilight said. “How can your dimension be capable of viewing other dimensions, and then not know about it? And why our adventures? Our lives aren't that interesting.”
“I disagree, but it's not the action that most people watch your adventures for, but for the lessons on friendship and how to be a better person. Peoples lives have changed from the lessons you've learned,” Paradox said, solemnly closing his eyes.
“Alright now I know you're lying,” Twilight said. “How do you really know?”
“I'm not lying! I don't understand it, but I'm not lying,” Paradox protested.
“You expect me to believe something as absurd as a species of aliens from another dimension watching the lives of my friends and I, while not realizing it's fictional, while at the same time taking life lessons from the fictional story? That's ridiculous,” Twilight said.
“Oh come on, I know it sounds absurd, but I'm proof that there our aliens from another dimension at least. How much weirder is it for us to have bizarre customs and traits? Why won't you believe me?” Paradox said.
“First off, I've only known you for a couple of days. Secondly, in those couple of days you abducted my friends and I and scattered us across time and space. Thirdly, you are the avatar of chaos and disharmony. Finally you've done nothing but cause problems since you've gotten here,” Twilight said, lecturing Paradox.
“That's not true! I'm not the avatar of disharmony and I've helped ponies,” Paradox said.
“Really? How so?” Twilight said, raising an eyebrow. When Paradox didn't immediately respond, she smirked. “That's what I thought,” Twilight said.
“Alright then, I'll prove it. Watch me closely Twilight, I'm going to show you exactly how much chaos can help ponies,” Paradox said, pointing at the crystal orb before vanishing.  
> Chapter 4.Pegasi
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“That is without doubt the worst plan I've ever heard,” Clear Thought said. 
“What? Why?” Rainbow Dash shouted.
“Alright. For starters why would anypony think think you are a divine messenger, sent to punish us all for having slaves?” 
“That's why we stage the 'miracles',” Rainbow Dash said, rolling her eyes. 
“Fine, how are we going to create a plague of loctus and a rain of frogs?” Clear Though asked sarcastically.
“Fluttershy can talk to animals, and they'll generally do as she asks,” Rainbow Dash said, pointing to the smiling pony, who was currently engrossed in a hive of ants. 
“Really? Then why don't we just attack the town and take it over with an army of wild animals?” Clear Thought asked, getting Fluttershy's attention.
“Oh, no no no. I could never ask my friends to fight like that! They could get hurt or even killed,” Fluttershy said, shaking her head fervently 
“Fluttershy, we could get hurt or killed,” Clear Thought said sternly. 
“But the animals aren't involved in this fight. They'd only be fighting because I asked them to, not because they're involved in what's happening,” Fluttershy replied, decisively shaking her head. “Besides, Rainbow Dash can handle any of the fighting,” she added with a smile. 
“And that settles that,” Rainbow Dash said. “So insect plagues and frog rains are a go, don't worry Fluttershy, I'll make sure that your animals aren't in any danger for that,” she added quickly, seeing Fluttershy start to speak up. Fluttershy nodded, and gave Rainbow Dash another smile before turning her attention back to the ants. 
“That's...fine, whatever. How about the rain of blood? How are you going to manage that?” Clear Thought said. 
“Well I figured we could carry a bunch of paint into the clouds, and then let it all rain down on command,” Rainbow Dash said. Clear Thought facehooved. 
“That...wouldn't work. Where would we get all the red paint? Actually never mind that! Red paint doesn't look like blood, and yes, most ponies and griffons here can tell the difference,” Clear Thought explained slowly. 
“How about the rain of fire? How would that one fail?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Water isn't combustible. Also, what's up with you and rain?” Clear Thought answered. 
“I'm a weather pegasus. Fine, to recap, Rainbow Dash Ultimate Messenger Of The Goddess is out cause it's impractical, and Operation Fluttershy Invasion is out cause it would hurt too many animals,” Rainbow Dash said, stomping around as she talked. “So we need a new plan.” 
“Hmm, from the match I saw, Rainbow Dash is certainly one of the best fighters. She could enter the challenge circuit, and keep winning slaves. Eventually she'll gain enough power and influence to basically be running the town as long as she kept winning. Then she can slowly introduce new policies to create more rights for slaves, slowly liberating them bit by bit,” Clear Thought said, getting more and more excited as she spoke. 
“Sounds good,” Rainbow Dash said, flying around their camp, “How long do you think that'd take? A month? Three?” 
Clear Thought paused, her face falling. “Around fifteen to twenty years, assuming nothing went wrong,” she mumbled, hiding her face from Rainbow Dash. 
“Well that's not going to fly,” Rainbow said sternly, landing by Clear Thought. “We've got problems of our own back home in Equestria that we've got to deal with. We can leave Paradox to run rampart over everything for that long.”
“I'm sorry,” Clear Thought said, refusing to look at Rainbow Dash. 
“It's okay, you were only trying to be helpful,” Fluttershy said, joining the other two ponies once again. 
“Yeah, but we do still need to come up with a plan to free all of the slaves,” Rainbow Dash said, patting Clear Thought on the back.
“Um, well why can't Rainbow do what she did to free you?” Fluttershy suggested.
“You mean freeing them one at a time? It would work for a while, but it'd still be pretty slow, and once the owners realized that they couldn't beat her they'd start avoiding her. Since a challenge technically has to be delivered in person, as long as Rainbow Dash can't find them, they don't have to fight her,” Clear Thought explained.
“Yeah? Well I betcha they couldn't hide from Fluttershy! Her animals could sniff them out in no time. And I bet I could easily do a couple dozen fights a day, we'd have an army on our hooves in a week, and then we could just take over with force,” Rainbow Dash said, smacking her hooves together. 
“You can only do one fight a day, supposed to make sure that a fighter can't get ganged up on after they lose a fight,” Clear Thought said, quickly shooting down that idea. 
“What really? Isn't there some way around that?” Rainbow Dash yelled, throwing her hooves up in exasperation. 
“Actually...there is a way. But it's really risky, I don't like it,” Clear Thought said, scuffing the dirt as she looked away from Rainbow Dash. 
“I'm not scared of any sort of danger! So tell me what it is already,” Rainbow Dash said, trying not to glare at Clear Thought. 
“You can challenge multiple opponents to the same fight,” Clear Thought muttered. “You win a slave per fighter. But if you lose you have to give a slave to each fighter.” 
“That sounds great! We'd be able to get an army of freed slaves in no time, why only after a week we'd have freed over a hundred slaves,” Rainbow Dash said, beaming. 
“One hundred twenty eight to be exact. But you'd have to beat sixty-four fighters at the same time to do that. It's impossible!” Clear Thought cried, raising her head and glaring at Rainbow Dash. “And if you lost even once, we'd all be slaves again! I don't want to be a slave anymore, and I don't want to take that risk!” 
“You worry too much I can- huh Fluttershy?” Rainbow started to boast before being cut off by Fluttershy's upraised hoof as she moved towards Clear Thought. 
“It'll be alright,” she said sweetly. “Rainbow Dash has never let me down, and if she's sure that she'll win then I have faith in her. She'll be betting my freedom as well, and I'm not worried, see?” 
“Ar-are you really sure?” Clear Thought asked, sniffing as she rubbed the tears that had started to form. 
“Yes, I'm sure.” Fluttershy said, softly rubbing Clear Thought's mane. 
“Yeah, there's no way I'm going to let any griffon lay their filthy claws on Fluttershy,” Rainbow Dash said, her earlier bravado being replaced with a fierce determination. 
“B-be that as it may, one hundred twenty-eight ponies aren't enough to start a revolution,” Clear Thought said, taking a few deep breaths to try and get back under control. 
“Not by themselves no. But what if, what if I destroyed the entire coliseum in my last fight? If you were to talk to the slaves during the week and begin prepping for a full out revolt as I did my fights, you'd be able to catch them all by surprise! Plus if I'm great at getting an audience’s attention, by the time I'm fighting sixty-four opponents, that stadium will be packed!” Rainbow Dash said, grinning fiercely. 
“That would work, but how will you destroy the coliseum?” Clear Thought asked, giving her head a little shake. 
“Oh, that will be a surprise,” Rainbow Dash said, winking at Fluttershy. Fluttershy smiled as she caught on, but then suddenly frowned. 
“Rainbow, won't that hurt a lot of ponies and griffons?” Fluttershy asked. 
“Yeah, it will,” Rainbow Dash admitted, growing serious once more. “But these aren't innocents or even ponies who are just making a mistake. They think that might makes right, and have set up their whole society around it. We're pretty much by ourselves, and neither of us will be able to persuade these people to change their ways, not if we want to get home any time soon anyways. If we're going to free these ponies, then they'll have to fight alongside us, and help us tear the whole corrupt system down. And that does mean that the griffons and ponies fighting to preserve the system are going to get hurt.” 
“I...don't want to have to hurt anypony,” Fluttershy muttered, looking away. 
“You won't have to. I'll protect you, and I'll do all the fighting,” Rainbow Dash said softly, pulling Fluttershy into a hug. 
“I hate to interrupt, but we do still have to plan out how we are going to do this,” Clear Thought said, coughing awkwardly.
“Right, what's left?” Rainbow Dash asked, letting go of Fluttershy and turning to look at Clear Thought. 
“Well I've been thinking which griffons it would be best for you to challenge first. If you take down some of the stronger fighters first, they wouldn't be able to interfere with the later duels if you made sure to injure them in your duel. And if you make sure to challenge griffons who are rivals with each other in your fights against multiple opponents, they'll find it harder to team up against you. Finally we need to decide who you want to rescue first,” Clear Thought said. 
“Alright. But if you're expecting me to hurt them badly, I want you to choose the meanest and cruelest opponents you know of. And what do you mean who we want to rescue?” Rainbow asked. Clear Thought nodded.
“Well we are all good for something. And so all of us slaves have our special skills. I don't think that I'll be able to handle organizing and gathering support for a full out revolt by myself. So you'll need to select ponies who will be helpful to our cause,” Clear Thought explained. 
“I see,” Rainbow Dash said, pausing to think for a moment while Clear Thought waited patiently. “Well first things first, we need a pony who knows everypony. They can help you find the others we'll need. Next is a pony who is good at talking other ponies into doing things. Hmm, what else? We could use a pony who could get access to equipment. Then the strongest ponies you know. Then, use your best judgement.”
“Yes, Rainbow Dash,” Clear Thought said. The discussion done the trio headed off to set up camp. Rainbow Dash started a fire as they settled down for the night. “Shouldn't we set a watch?” Clear Thought asked. 
“Nah, Fluttershy's friends have got that covered,” Rainbow Dash said, yawning. She flew up to the sky and grabbed a cloud, bringing it to the ground to use as a bed. She laid down on it and gestured for Fluttershy to join her. 
“Um, where will you sleep, Clear Thought?” Fluttershy asked. 
“I can just sleep on the ground by the fire. A night or two in the dirt won't kill me,” Clear Thought said. 
“Are you sure?” 
“Yes,” Clear Thought said, firmly. Fluttershy nodded and trotted over to Rainbow Dash, curling up against her, as Rainbow Dash spread a wing over her. They snuggled together, and soon fell asleep in the warmth of their embrace. Clear Thought looked in the fire and made plans for tomorrow, not falling asleep til long after the moon began it's descent. 
The next day the trio got an early start, getting an light breakfast of grass and various wildflowers, before heading into town. They walked around town looking for their target, a massive griffon with nearly all brown feathers, except for the red ones around his face. His body is covered in scars from his many fights. And naturally he was no where to be found.
“Ugh, why can't we find this guy?” Rainbow Dash yelled, kicking the dirt in frustration. 
“I don't know. My animals aren't sure where he is either, sorry,” Fluttershy said, lowering her head. 
“It's okay Fluttershy,” Rainbow Dash said, sighing and giving Fluttershy a pat. 
“Hmm, well if he isn't in a place without any animals, then where could he be?” Clear Thought asked. 
“I dunno,” Rainbow Dash said, shrugging. 
“What if he's in the coliseum already? My animals don't like it there,” Fluttershy asked.
“Then we're in trouble. Rainbow Dash wouldn't be able to challenge him for another 24 hours,” Clear Thought said. 
“Well where else could he be? No sense in even checking the coliseum if it's already too late,” Rainbow Dash asked. The trio paused to think some more. 
“Someplace where animals don't like to be...what about a pub?” Clear Thought suggested. 
“My mice friends checked them out, he's not there,” Fluttershy replied, shaking her head. 
“You know what? We're over thinking this,” Rainbow Dash announced. “This Konrad guy, he's big, proud, and likes to fight right?”
“That is correct,” Clear Thought said. 
“Then if I make a public challenge, he's sure to accept,” Rainbow Dash said, flying up into the sky. She grabbed a cloud and dragged it across the sky, using it to create a contrail behind her.  She quickly wrote a message in the sky challenging Konrad to a duel, at the coliseum, at noon. She quickly flew back to the group and smiled. “There, now all we have to do is head to the coliseum and wait,” she said. 
“That should work. We've only got a few hours til noon, so let's get going to the coliseum,” Clear Thought said. The group headed off, attracting a lot of curious griffons, who wanted to know more about the pony who had challenged Konrad to a fight. Rainbow Dash played to the crowd, inviting the to come watch the most awesome fight they had ever seen, bragging how she'll take down Konrad without breaking a sweat, and how this is just the beginning of her career of kicking some serious tail in the arena. 
“So, you are the pony who dared challenge me,” a giant griffon said, lumbering over to Rainbow Dash. “It's about time. I thought that there was no one left in this town who was brave enough.” He added, laughing. 
“I don't know about that. I'm from Equestria,” Rainbow Dash replied, glaring at Konrad. 
“An Equestria! What a surprise! I thought the ponies down there were all about peace and harmony, and wouldn't fight their worst enemy. So what are you doing here?” Konrad asked.
“I'm here to kick your flank!” Rainbow Dash declared, flaring her wings. 
“Ha! Got some fire in you I see. That's good. Better then most of my opponents. I look forward to our match little pony,” Konrad laughed, walking away to enter the arena. Rainbow Dash growled, then blinked in surprise as Fluttershy cuddled up against her. 
“That griffon is scary,” she whispered, shivering. 
“Aw, don't worry Fluttershy. He talks big, but he's nothing but a bag of hot air,” Rainbow Dash said, spreading a wing over Fluttershy. 
“He is really big though, and fierce,” Fluttershy muttered, hiding her face against Rainbow Dash's side. 
“The bigger they are, the harder they fall. Besides there's no way that big lump could keep up with me. I'll fly rings around him and he won't even be able to touch me,” Rainbow Dash said, giving Fluttershy a squeeze from her wing. 
“I will handle the paper work of your challenge,” Clear Thought said, giving Fluttershy an angry look. “Rainbow Dash, please do not underestimate Konrad. He's the top fighter in this town for a reason.” Clear Thought trotted off. 
“What's her problem?” Rainbow Dash asked. Fluttershy just shrugged in reply. 
“Just be careful okay? Good luck Love,” Fluttershy said, giving Rainbow Dash a quick kiss on the cheek before heading for her seat. Rainbow Dash just grinned as she watched Fluttershy walk away. She turned and headed to the waiting room. To her surprise she found that her match against Konrad had been bumped up to happen immediately after the next duel finished. She stepped out, and literally had to brace herself against the roar of the crowd. The entire coliseum was packed full to the point where Rainbow Dash could see griffons grabbing clouds to create more seating directly above them. 
“Ah, it's good to see a proper crowd for once. It has been too long,” Konrad said, slowly approaching Rainbow Dash. 
“What? Not bothered by the fact that you're about to lose in front of the entire town?” Rainbow Dash taunted, smirking. Konrad just laughed. The fighters took their places in the arena and prepared to fight. 
“3...2...1 BEGIN!” the announcer screamed. Rainbow Dash shot forward seeking an easy win. She darted to the side of the griffon, seeking to get around him before grabbing his tail, but found Konrad's talons waiting for her. She broke off her attacks, rolling through the air to land on her hooves, but not before taking a light scratch down her side.
“First blood to me,” Konrad said, grinning. He pounced towards Rainbow Dash, who dodged backwards, leaving a small crater in the ground when he landed. “You can't run forever,” he yelled charging at Rainbow Dash.
“Who's running?” Rainbow retorted, reversing direction, and meeting his charge. At the last second she jumped up, and brought her hooves down in a massive punch, only to find them caught by Konrad's talons. The griffon threw her at the ground, but she rolled with the throw, bouncing back to her hooves and charging back at Konrad. She landed a couple of punches to Konrad's ribs, before he retaliated with his own punches, forcing Rainbow Dash back onto the defensive, as she dodged and blocked. Finally a blow slipped through, sending Rainbow Dash sprawling. 
“Is that all you've got?” Konrad asked. Rainbow Dash just glared, springing up from the ground and into an uppercut. Konrad managed to block it, and dealt Rainbow Dash a powerful blow to the gut, before throwing Rainbow Dash into the wall. The crowd cheered as he walked closer. “Are you going to give up? I'm sure your pegasus friend will make a lovely slave. She'll be the masterpiece of my collection.” 
“Don't you dare even think about laying a single claw on Fluttershy!” Rainbow Dash screamed, standing back up. In a flash she crossed the arena, spinning around at the last moment to deliver a kick with both back hooves. Konrad caught her hooves in his talons again, but this time Rainbow Dash was prepared. She immediately dug her front hooves and began flapping her wings flipping herself, and Konrad, around. He spread his wings to soften the landing, but lost his grip on Rainbow Dash, who didn't give him a moment to gather himself. Before he could react Rainbow Dash came down on his outstretched wing with both hooves, filling the air with a sickening crack! She hopped away, and watched as Konrad slowly rose to his feet, his wing hanging limp at his side.
“This fight is over,” Rainbow Dash said. Konrad just nodded, face twisted up in pain. 
“Good...fight,” he managed to croak out, as he walked towards the medical ponies running towards him. Rainbow Dash watched him for a bit before looking over the crowd, who were shouting themselves hoarse. She contemplated saying something, but decided to just go and find Fluttershy instead. It took a few hours to get everypony together again, and in that time Rainbow Dash announced her intention to challenge two griffons the next day. 
“Greetings Mistress, or do you prefer Master?” a young earth pony mare said, bowing to Rainbow Dash.
“Enough of that. Didn't Clear Thought tell you? I don't want you calling me anything fancy. Just Rainbow Dash will do. Also you're free now,” Rainbow Dash said, wincing as Fluttershy disinfected the cut in her side. 
“She did, but I do not think it proper to show you such disrespect,” the mare said. 
“It's not disrespect if that's how I prefer to be called. Look what's your name?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“My name is Clearly Cordial, or simply C2,” Clearly Cordial replied.  
“Alright C2. I want to make this understood. We aren't here to collect slaves and we don't support this whole society. We're here to bring it down and we're going to cause a revolution. By the time we're through, no griffon or pony will be a slave, got that?” Rainbow Dash said.	
“I understand. But you still need some sort of title,” Clearly Cordial said, keeping her head bowed. 
“Well you can think of one later. For now I need your help figuring out which ponies have the skills I need to make sure this revolution is successful,” Rainbow Dash ordered, pulling out the list of skills that they needed. The four ponies kept planning for a while longer, til Fluttershy insisted that Rainbow Dash get some sleep in preparation for tomorrow's fight.
The next day found Rainbow Dash in the arena again, facing off against two griffons. The two were from rival clans, and were more focused on each other then on her. When the fight began only one of them charged at Rainbow Dash, who was easily able to grab the griffon and throw him back into his ally. A few seconds later they were fighting each other as they tried to get up, letting Rainbow Dash easily sneak up on them, and slam their heads together, knocking them both out. That day Rainbow Dash got to relax, meeting all of her adoring fans amongst the populace. They took her around town, showing her all of the sights. Rainbow Dash drank it all in, the praise and the glory, Fluttershy at her side. All the while, her liberated slaves worked hard, spreading the word amongst those who were most discontent with their lot in life. 
The third fight was similarly easy. Rainbow Dash had 'cheated' the system, challenging two earth ponies, and two griffons to a fight. She simply took to the air, and the overly proud griffons accepted her challenge. Despite outnumbering her 2 to 1, they were unable to keep up with her speed and agility, allowing Rainbow Dash to attack them from any direction she pleased. Soon enough both fell to the ground, while their Earth Pony allies could do nothing but stand and watch. Then they had to face her fury. Standing back to back they put up a decent fight, managing to drive Rainbow Dash back, while enduring what hits got through, but it was only a matter of time before she wore them down. Unable to land a hit of their own, they eventually collapsed giving Rainbow Dash another win. 
The fourth fight was more difficult. The griffons she had challenged were prepared, putting aside their differences in order to have a chance at winning. Two of them sacrificed themselves as a distraction, going on an all out offensive and allowing Rainbow Dash to pummel them. Their sacrifice gave their comrade a chance to strike, flying up and grabbing Rainbow Dash. The others quickly flew in, slashing at Rainbow Dash with their claws, as she frantically flapped her one free wing, gathering up electricity which she used to shock the griffon holding her captive. Free, she was able to defend herself, barely. She soon turned their tactic against them, deliberately leaving herself open in order to land more devastating strikes. It hurt, and left her wounded, but she managed to pull through, dropping each griffon she faced with one or two powerful blows. After the fight though she found herself being lectured, and bandaged by Fluttershy.
“That was far too dangerous Rainbow Dash. You could have been hurt much worse then this,” Fluttershy said, wrapping up one of Rainbow's legs in bandages. 
“Aw come on Fluttershy, I won didn't I?” Rainbow replied, trying not to wince. 
“You almost lost! And you almost died. I don't think those griffons were going to stop hitting you if you had given up. And you never would have, not with our freedom on the line, don't even try and pretend otherwise. They would have killed or crippled you, and then what would we do? What would Equestria do?” Fluttershy said, accidentally squeezing Rainbow Dash too hard, and she moved to treat the next injury. 
“Fluttershy...” Rainbow Dash groaned.
“Sorry,” Fluttershy said, weakening her grip as she started anew on the next injury. “But you've got to learn to be less reckless. We can't afford to lose you, I can't afford to lose you.” Fluttershy gave Rainbow Dash a hug before resuming her work. “As is, you've got to go into your next fights with more of a plan then you've been doing. They're only going to get more difficult from here.”
“I'll admit I got cocky, but I think you're overreacting a little bit,” Rainbow Dash replied. “I still took those losers down once I stopped messing around.”
“And they got to hit you the entire time. There's no guarantee that you'll be able to outlast a greater number of opponents,” Clear Thought said, joining the conversation. 
“Alright, I'll come up with a better plan for my next fight,” Rainbow Dash said, throwing up her hooves in defeat. 
“Well you'll have time to think about it, because you aren't fighting tomorrow,” Fluttershy said, finishing patching up the last of Rainbow Dash's wounds. 
“What? No way! I've got to keep fighting, we don't have time for me to just sit around doing nothing,” Rainbow Dash said. 
“No excuses. You're too injured, and I'm not letting you fight in that condition,” Fluttershy said, firmly pushing Rainbow Dash down when she tried to stand up. 
“But what about all of the slaves? I can't just leave them to suffer while I heal,” Rainbow Dash protested, squirming faintly against Fluttershy's hooves, and wincing when her efforts caused a wave of pain to shoot through her. 
“Don't worry about that Rainbow Dash. We'll keep for the few days it will take for you to heal. In fact I can use this time to keep organizing things for the revolution. A week wasn't much time, and quite frankly, I could use more,” Clear Thought said.
“Ugh, fine,” Rainbow Dash groaned, laying her head down in submission. Fluttershy stayed with her, while Clear Thought got back to work. It was a boring few days for Rainbow Dash, as mandatory bed rest under Fluttershy's watchful gaze was never fun. Fluttershy did her best to try and keep Rainbow Dash entertained but  there was only so much stuff you could do while resting in the middle of the woods. 
“You win again Dashie,” Fluttershy said, smiling happily at Rainbow Dash after another game of Tic-Tac-Toe. “Did you want to play again?”
“Ugh, no. I'm so bored, isn't there anything else we can do?” Rainbow Dash asked, whining a little as she rolled onto her back.
“Well, I suppose,” Fluttershy said, mumbling at the end of her sentence. 
“Suppose what?”
“I suppose we could go for a small flight,” Fluttershy said. “Only a small one. Just to get you back in the air and see how well you've healed,” she added quickly. 
“Awesome, lets go.” Rainbow Dash said, impatiently fidgeting while Fluttershy slowly removed the bandages from her wings and body. She winced a few times as Fluttershy pushed against a bruise, but didn't complain. Soon the two pegasi were air born and flying slowly at Fluttershy's request. Rainbow Dash smiled with relief as she stretched her wings and just soared for a while, picking up a thermal to get some altitude. Fluttershy squeaked and quickly followed, not expecting Rainbow Dash to suddenly ascend like that. 
“So what do you think Fluttershy?” Rainbow Dash asked, rolling lazily in the air. 
“W-well, it looks like you're fully healed,” Fluttershy said, sounding almost disappointed. Rainbow Dash looked at her oddly before brushing it off. 
“I've got an idea on how I'm going to beat the next opponents too, and good news, it does require me to wait a bit longer,” Rainbow Dash said, smiling a little. 
“Oh, um, that's, well, that's great,” Fluttershy said, with false enthusiasm. Rainbow Dash sighed, and flew directly in front of Fluttershy, gently halting her in the air. 
“Okay Fluttershy, what's up?” she asked, staring Fluttershy right in the eye.
“Nothing,” Fluttershy mumbled, hiding behind her mane. 
“No, it's not nothing. Come on, Fluttershy, you promised you wouldn't do that anymore,” Rainbow Dash said, sternly, putting a hoof under Fluttershy's chin and forcing her to meet her gaze. “Now tell me what's bothering you,” she said. Fluttershy took a deep breath.
“I really don't want you to fight again. I know it's for a good cause, and that you're going to win, but I don't like you getting hurt at all. And I don't like that you have to hurt those poor griffons so much in order to win. And I know that you're almost certainly going to ha-have to...kill,” Fluttershy spat the word out, “in order to win. And the revolution that you and Clear Thought are planning is almost certainly going to kill more griffons and ponies. So when you got injured I was hoping I'd be able to use it as an excuse to prevent you from fighting, and we'd just go home and tell Princess Celestia about it and let her solve things. But I know that would mean leaving all these slaves to suffer, and I'm a horrible, selfish, evil pony!” Fluttershy said, rapidly. Rainbow Dash quickly hugged her.
“You're not an horrible pony, and you aren't evil. You are acting a little selfish, but everypony is selfish now and then,” Rainbow Dash murmured, running her hoof through Fluttershy's mane. She carried Fluttershy over to a nearby cloud and reluctantly let her go. 
“I'm sorry,” Fluttershy said, sniffing as she tried not to cry.
“It's alright. Look Fluttershy, I do understand. You just want things to be nice and happy, like they are back home in Ponyville. That and you think you can leave this to Princess Celestia. But I've been thinking, these griffons and ponies have been at this a while. Princess Celestia should already know about this, and she hasn't done anything. So I think the only way things are going to change is if somepony like me forces them to change. I know it's tough, and I know it's violent. I don't really like it either, but we've got to stick together alright?” Rainbow Dash said. Fluttershy just nodded and gave Rainbow Dash a hug, burying her face in Rainbow's chest. Rainbow Dash smiled and gave Fluttershy a squeeze. 
“Come on, let's go tell Clear Thought that I'm all healed up.” Rainbow Dash said, before slowly detaching herself from Fluttershy and flying down to their campsite. Clear Thought wasn't back yet, so Rainbow Dash stretched and practised some aerial manoeuvres, making sure she was back to 100%. By the time Clear Thought returned, Rainbow Dash, was zipping around the campsite, dodging through the thick forest that surrounded them. 
“I'm glad to see you are fully healed, and with good timing too. Our preparations are basically complete,” Clear Thought said, respectfully bowing her head for a second. 
“Ah, Clear Thought! I was waiting for you,” Rainbow Dash said, landing and walking over. “I've got a plan to win my next fight, but I need to know the weather schedule, specifically when is the next rainstorm?” 
“Hm? The next rainstorm is in two days time, but the sky is always kept clear over the arena, so I don't see how that would help you,” Clear Thought said. Rainbow Dash just smiled and explained her plan. Clear Thought smiled and nodded in response. Two days later it was finally time for Rainbow Dash to return to the ring. 
As promised, the weather was horrible, as the rain poured down on the town and surrounding area. Still the griffons and pegasi of the town were careful to sculpt to leave a hole above the coliseum, leaving the ground and seats perfectly dry. 
“Perfect,” Rainbow Dash said, her wings gleaming with moisture as she gathered the humidity together. “They'll never see this coming.” Rainbow Dash grinned as she got to work, gathering more and more of the moisture together as she waited for her match to begin. 
“It's been over a week since we've seen her last, and some accused her of backing down, of being a coward. Well she's here to prove those neysayers wrong, doubling her previous number of challenges. That's right, it's the prismatic amazon Rainbow Dash vs no less then sixteen of our fine warriors! Let the battle begin,” The announcer shouted, as the doors to the waiting rooms opened.  Rainbow Dash's opponents emerged in a defensive formation and stared at the thick fog that emerged from Rainbow Dash's room. 
“It looks like Rainbow Dash had a trick up her sleeve, but what could it be? Surely the griffons she is facing will just be able to blow the fog away,” The announcer cried as Rainbow Dash's opponents began to do as she said. The moment one of the griffons rose above the group however, Rainbow Dash shot out of the fog, breaking one of the griffon's wings and flinging him into another opponent before quickly disappearing back into the fog. The group was shocked into stillness for a few moments, which Rainbow took advantage of to expand the fog dramatically. Regrouping, her opponents once again began to blow away the fog, but this time half of them remained on guard to try and fend off Rainbow Dash's attack. It didn't work, Rainbow Dash just flew into the guards, trailing fog behind her. Before they could react, she had hit one, ricocheted to the next, hit them, and had grabbed a third, and dragged them back into the fog where she finished that one off. Startled the griffons stopped flapping again, and this time Rainbow Dash was able to envelope the group inside the fog.
With their visibility ruined, their coordination fell to pieces. They tried to stay huddled together, but Rainbow Dash was able to attack from every direction, breaking up their formation and tricking them into fighting each other. Soon enough the majority were fighting each other, or moving through the fog on their own, easy prey for Rainbow Dash. Only three or four managed to make a break for the sky, flying high above the fog. They watched in dismay as the dome of fog was filled with rapidly silenced sounds of battle. All too soon, Rainbow Dash emerged from the fog, grinning fiercely. 
“Looks like you're all that's left. You going to do this the easy way or the hard way?” Rainbow Dash said, smashing her hooves together. The griffons looked to each other, and back at the fog before shaking their heads, and bowing in surrender. Rainbow Dash laughed in victory as the stands erupted in cheers. “Another win,” she gloated before flying off. However before she could get too far, she saw a familiar looking griffon flying up to intercept her. Instinctively, Rainbow Dash fell into a fighting stance, causing Konrad to raise his talons up to signal his peaceful intentions. 
“Greetings, Rainbow Dash,” he boomed as he flew closer. “A cunning strategy.”
“What do you want Konrad? A rematch?” Rainbow Dash asked, eyeing him suspiciously. 
“Not right now, no,” Konrad said. “I want to talk about what you are planning.”
“What?” Rainbow Dash asked, surprised. 
“Do not take me for a fool Rainbow Dash. After my defeat I've been studying you and your slaves. And none of your slaves have been working, instead they spend their time talking to other slaves, many of which you end up acquiring later,” Konrad said, keeping his voice low. 
“What do you think I'm planning?” Rainbow Dash asked, thinking fast.
“I think you are planning a revolution. You are a pony sent by Princess Celestia to cause a slave revolt and bring down our society because you don't approve of our ways. You're fighting in the arena to gather troops and distract everyone from your attack. Am I right?” Konrad asked, speaking slowly and deliberately. 
“More or less,” Rainbow Dash admitted, subtly trying to gain some altitude. “So now what? Are you trying to blackmail me? Don't think I'll back down so easily,” she added with a glare. 
“No, not at all. I want to join you,” Konrad said, grinning widely. 
“What?” Rainbow Dash shouted, falling a half-dozen meters in surprise. She flapped her wings strongly to regain her lost altitude. “Why would you want to join me? From what I hear you're living the high life as a successful slave owner,” she asked.
“You mean a boring and tame life,” Konrad said, snorting. “I am the best fighter around, at least I was before you showed up, and in these last few years no one has challenged me. The few I bothered to challenge were no match, barely requiring any attention on my part. So I sit and languish, my skills going to waste for want of a worthy challenge. Til you showed up. At first I was merely training and preparing for a rematch, but when I figured out what you were planning I realized the golden opportunity that lay before me. If I join your revolution, then I shall find my challenges and glory on the battlefield, and this time when I fight, both my opponent and I will be going all out!” 
“And how can I trust you? You could betray me,” Rainbow Dash asked, not relaxing a muscle.
“Put me to the test and I shall prove my loyalty,” Konrad boasted. “Besides, if you will not accept me as an ally, then you will face me as an enemy.” He added. 
“Grr, very well then. First thing will be to meet with the others and see what they think of what you are saying,” Rainbow Dash said.
“Meet with your underlings? Why? Are you not their leader and can't you make the decision for them?” Konrad asked.
“Now listen up. If you are going to be fighting alongside us, then you need to understand that we're fighting to free the slaves of this land. That means that in the end, when we win, they'll be your equals. All of them will be, not just the strong ones,” Rainbow Dash said, glaring into Konrad's eyes.
“I understand,” Konrad said, nodding slowly. 
“Good, now follow me,” Rainbow Dash said, flying back to camp.
“This is a much different test then I was expecting,” Konrad muttered. “But I shall pass it regardless.”
When they reached the camp, Fluttershy, Clear Thought, and C2 were all waiting for her. They nearly panicked when they spotted Konrad following her, but Rainbow Dash quickly explained what Konrad had told her. The group fell to arguing with Clear Thought and C2 being against it and Fluttershy agreeing with Rainbow Dash to give Konrad a chance. 
“We are fighting to liberate ourselves from the griffons, not to keep them in power,” C2 yelled.
“B-but I'm sure that not all griffons are bad. You've got to forgive them and give them a chance,” Fluttershy said.
“Some griffons perhaps. But I have a hard time believing Konrad is anything but an adamant supporter of the system that has been responsible for my enslavement,” Clear Thought said. 
“Enough! He's going to be working along us and that's final!” Rainbow Dash yelled, slamming a hoof against the ground. The others fell silent, but were still glowering. “You're nervous about being betrayed? Well, that's fine. I've thought of a way to ensure his loyalty. Konrad, can you give us a second?” 
“Very well,” Konrad said, glaring a bit at the two former slaves before backing off a short distance. Rainbow Dash quickly explained her plan to them before waving Konrad back over. 
“Alright, here's what we've decided. We've got a plan for how we're going to take over this town. You don't get to know what it is. All you get to do is to provide seventy or more slaves for me to bet on my matches. After we are victorious, it will be too late for you to betray us, and if you don't know the details then you can't betray us beforehand,” Rainbow Dash said. Konrad glared for a few seconds before swallowing his pride and nodding curtly once. “Good. Then Clear Thought will meet you first thing in the morning at the coliseum. In the meantime I've got to get ready. Come on, Fluttershy.” Rainbow Dash added before flying off, Fluttershy following the best she could. 
Konrad did as he was ordered, and the next day the coliseum was packed full as usual. The arena itself was almost entirely full with over a hundred griffons and ponies present. The announcer went though the usual spiel, introducing the small army Rainbow Dash had challenged, before making a speech to explain the historical importance of the unprecedented bet. Finally he introduced Rainbow Dash, opening the door to her waiting room where no one was to be found. The whole time Rainbow Dash had been floating far up above the coliseum and when she noticed the horde of opponents enter the arena she gulped and began her descent. Here we go, I've got to time this perfectly in order for this to work. And if it does...then some of those griffons and ponies down there will likely die. But I can't hesitate or everypony will just end up becoming slaves again. And Fluttershy will end up a slave as well. So here goes everything!  Rainbow Dash thought as she flapped her wings again and again to get even more speed as a mach cone formed in front of her eyes and her lips peeled back from the force of the wind against her face. 
Her timing was perfect. Just when she was about to break through and create a sonic rainboom, her hooves touched the ground instead. The result was a massive rainbow coloured mushroom cloud, the shock wave sending griffons and ponies flying as the coliseum began to crack and crumble from the blast. Rainbow Dash was at the centre of it all as the entire stadium was reduced to chaos as everyone tried to evacuate all at once. Her opponents were in shambles, having caught the majority of the blast themselves, nearly all were unconscious at the very least. Rainbow Dash winced at the sight of the mangled corpse of one griffon who had been unable to withstand the full force of Rainbow Dash's attack. She looked around, watching silently as most of the crowd flew out of the coliseum, while the ground bound members of the audience tried to make their way through the semi-collapsed tunnels. 
“Looks like I was wrong,” Rainbow Dash muttered to herself, remembering her promise to destroy the coliseum. Though badly damaged, the building was still standing, and barring another attack, would remain so. She felt a flash of panic at the thought that the Clear Thought wouldn't begin the uprising but she ignored it, choosing to fly up into the sky and see for herself. She winced again as she heard the sounds of violence rising up from the now burning town. The ex-slaves had wasted no time, setting fire to key government and looting any weapons they could find. As they spread other slaves not involved in the planning, took the opportunity to break free and riot. It was a massive, uncontrollable mess that could only end in one way. In short, everything was going according to plan. 
“Rainbow, oh Rainbow Dash,” a yellow and pink blur cried before ramming into Rainbow Dash. 
“Whoa, ah, Fluttershy! What's wrong? Is everything alright? I thought you were going to wait at the camp,” Rainbow Dash asked, holding onto the crying mare. 
“It's-it's just so awful,” Fluttershy said, bawling. 
“Yeah, it is,” Rainbow Dash said grimly, flying them both up to a cloud. From there they watched as the dazed audience was caught heading back to their homes by a group of ex-slaves and pummeled into submission. “And this is just the beginning.” she whispered as she watched. 

> Chapter 4.Pinkie
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Oooh you speak Equestrian? Does that mean you’re from Equestria? Do you know Steven Magnet? He’s a good friend of mine, well, more Rarity’s friend then mine, but he still likes to party with the rest of Ponyville,” Pinkie babbled, bouncing around the sea serpents pool. “Oh, right, you asked me what I was doing here.”

“Well we were just finished celebrating Princess Cadence and Shining Armor’s wedding when the next thing we knew, Princess Celestia was telling us to grab the Elements of Harmony because Discord had escaped again and that there was a new creature sleeping where his statue had been. We woke him up and he claimed Discord had retired and given him his powers. Then we fought, and we tried to activate the Elements of Harmony, but instead he banished us across time and space. I ended up here and after wandering around the jungle for a bit the pigs brought me here and then you showed up.”

“I see,” the serpent said, its tongue flicking out of its mouth. The very tip of the whale sized organ lightly touched Pinkie’s nose releasing a small electric zap. Pinkie giggled and sneezed, and the serpent seemed to smile. “I see indeed. You are no ordinary pony. You are descended from chaos much as I am

“No, I’m not silly. My parents’ are earth ponies, my grand parents are earth ponies, my great grand parents were earth ponies, and my great great great granparents were earth ponies,” Pinkie said, bouncing in place.

“And so on and so forth but go back far enough and your ancestor was no mere earth pony, they were something special. For they were the children of Slip Near, who was created by the Allfather, spirit of Creation and Chaos. The first lord of Chaos, who eventually passed his mantle to Discord,” the serpent said.

“Naw, I’m nothing special,” Pinkie said, waving a hoof dismissively.

“Really? Have you ever felt fabric of this reality and know what would happen next? The ability to do the inexplicable, bending or even ignoring the rules every other being must follow?” The serpent asked, knowingly. Pinkie sweated and looked away.

“Well, maybe. It doesn’t make me any different from any other pony,” Pinkie said, finally subdued.

“Nonsense. If you were a regular pony you’d be trapped here,” the serpent said.

“What?”

“This island here lies far away from Equestria. You could sail for a hundred years and never see it’s shoreline again. But with your powers, you’ll be able to make that journey with a single hoofstep,” the serpent explained.

“Oooh, tell me tell me tell me!” Pinkie said, starting to bounce once again.

“I will. First you must go to the ancient ruins buried in the depths of the jungle. Then I will guide you in unlocking your powers,” the serpent said.

“Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you!” Pinkie exclaimed, jumping forward and giving the snake a big hug. Despite it’s massive size, her arms still somehow extended to wrap around the snake’s entire body in a proper hug.

“I can see you’re going to be a quick learner,” the snake chuckled. “Now get going,” the snake added, nudging Pinkie gently, causing her to roll all the way to the door.

“Wait!” Pinkie yelled. “I need to know your name, cause we’re friends now, but I can’t keep calling you snake and serpent all the time.”

“My name?” the snake asked, chuckling. “It’s been a long time since someone has asked me my name. You can call me Mr. J.”

“Alright Mr. J! You just wait, I’ll figure this stuff out and next thing you know I’ll be throwing you a party in Ponyville! And that’s a Pinkie Guarantee!” Pinke said, bouncing out of the chamber. A bunch of hogs and pigs all turned to stare at her.

“Guðlast!”a pig screamed, pointing at Pinkie.

“Oh yes, I forgot to mention. Those pigs were sacrificing you to me, and I imagine they take some offense to you escaping,” Mr. J’s hissing voice echoed out of the chamber. The pigs grabbed spears and started thrusting at Pinkie.

“Whoa,” Pinkie shouted, throwing herself on the ground to dodge the blow. “This…isn’t…very…nice!” she yelled, dodging spear after spear. The pigs moved to surround her, and soon she had spears being thrust from every direction. Despite her best efforts, she soon had a ring of wooden spears around her neck. “Mr. J, help!” she yelled. 

“I’d love to Pinkie, but I’m trapped in here,” Mr. J called from his chamber. At the sound of his voice the boars started to jump up and down in a frenzy. “And it’s not like I can call them off. Does it look like they speak Equestrian?” 

“So, what do I do?” Pinkie asked, gulping as she stared at the blood shot eyes of the hog in front of her.

“Use your abilities,” Mr. J suggested. 

“How? Wait, I’ve got it!” Pinkie sat down and raised her hooves in the air. “I surrender,” she said, calmly. The pigs grumbled to each other, speaking rapidly in their strange language. A couple of them broke off and disappeared inside of a hut. They soon reemerged with rope woven from thick jungle vines and tied Pinkie up. With a heave they tossed her back into Mr. J’s chamber. 

“What did that accomplish?” Mr. J said, grumpily. 

[“Well they aren’t pointing spears at me anymore,” Pinkie said cheerfully, slipping out of the rope. “Now I can wait til night, before just sneaking out.”

“I suppose that’s a wise enough plan,” Mr. J said, begrudgingly.

“Great! Now in the meantime let me tell you all about myself. I told you my name was Pinkie, but my birth name was Pinkimaina Diane Pie, and I was born on a rock farm…” Pinkie babbled on.

Mr. J let out a deep sigh and settled in to listen to the pink pony. Eventually the sun went down, and it was time to move. Pinkie said bye to Mr. J again and crept out of the chamber. The village was quiet, at least in comparison to the jungle, which was filled with buzzes, squawks, roars, and squeaks as the wildlife went about their evening business.

“Da, duh dud duh,” Pinkie sang under her breath as she sneaked around the village. Spotting a pig walking around, she quickly dove into a nearby water barrel. Despite the large splash, the pig wandered on, unaware. Pinkie poked her head out, looking both ways before darting to the next piece of cover, a large basket full of fruit. Emerging from her cover, she ran over to the flimsy wall that marked the boundary of the village. Spinning the rope around she threw it over the wall. She gave it one or two quick tugs to makes sure it was secure, before climbing up the wall. She jumped down to the jungle floor and quickly rolled to hide behind a fern.

“And now, to dispose of the evidence,” Pinkie said, raising the rope to her mouth and taking a bite. “Huh, this actually doesn’t taste that bad,” she remarked to herself, before quickly gobbling the rest of the rope down. “Now to find that temple!” she said to herself, as she walked into the dark jungle.

The walk was long and boring, with Pinkie often stumbling in the thick undergrowth. She was constantly harassed by bugs, and despite the cool night air, she was sweaty and exhausted by the time she finally decided to quit.

“Ugh, I can’t go on any longer,” Pinkie complained, tugging a thorny bush out of her mane. “Stupid Mr. J. Go find the ruins the jungle. Sure, no problem. Just where are they?” Pinkie shouted.

“Grrr,” a low rumbling growl answered Pinkie. She slowly turned around, her eyes wide. Before her stood a massive bull with wings, but with a lion’s head. The beast growled again and took a step forward.

“Ahahaha, hi,” Pinkie laughed nervously. “I don’t suppose you know my friend Fluttershy do you?”

The beast answered with a powerful roar, the force of which knocking Pinkie back. She quickly jumped to her feet, just in time to see the lamassus charge at her. She dove out of the way and saw the tree behind her get shattered by sheer force of the lamassus’ blow.

“I think it’s time I took my grandma Pie’s advice: ‘Giggle at the ghostie, but when faced with a giant angry monster, RUN AWAY!” Pinkie yelled, zooming away in a pink blur. She ran faster then she ever had before, followed by a crashing noise as the lamassus chased after her. Chancing a glance behind her, she saw the wide trail to devastation the monster was leaving as it utterly destroyed every single thing in its path.

“Eeep!” Pinkie squeaked. “Gotta run faster,” she gasped to herself, putting her head down and running even faster. They raced through the jungle, with Pinkie jumping over boulders, darting in between tight groves of trees, and even bouncing from stone to stone over an expanse of quicksand. Boulders were reduced to dust, trees were shattered, and the lamassus blew through the quicksand like a boat through water. The beast roared as Pinkie panted.

“I can’t keep this up much longer,” Pinkie gasped, blinking sweat from her eyes. The sun began to rise, and Pinkie smiled. “Oh, please, please turn to stone or something in daylight,” she begged. The lamassus roared, and a smell of smoke tickled Pinkie’s snout. Her tail twitched, and Pinkie dove to the side, only to be sent flying by a fiery explosion. She groaned and raised her head, staring at the lamassus, which was now hovering in the air and covered in a corona of flame. The beast looked back at Pinkie and snorted a jet of flame, igniting the ferns Pinkie was lying in.

“Oh, that is just not fair!” Pinkie yelled, a fresh surge of adrenaline sending her to her hooves. She jumped to the side to avoid the next charge from the lamassus, only to be sent flying regardless. The blast cratered the ground, and Pinkie frantically rolled to put out the flames in her fur. She looked up to see the monster already flapping to regain its altitude and prepare for the next charge.

“Arrgh, what would Rainbow Dash do?” Pinkie groaned. “Well she’d face the beast down and beat it into submission. Alright you big beasty. You want a piece of this? Well come on then!” Pinkie yelled in defiance. The lamassus rose higher in response as it roared. The flames around it intensified, until it appeared to be a miniature sun hovering in the morning light. Pinkie pulled out her party cannon and prepared to fire. She glanced between it and the still ascending ball of fiery doom.

“Right, that’s a bad idea,” she said. She flipped the cannon around and jumped inside. Stretching a hoof around, she pressed the button and launched herself far in the sky. She looked back to see a massive explosion fill the sky, and a raging fire start, forming a ring of fire around the freshly formed crater.

“Phew, I’m glad I didn’t try and fight. I’d be toast if I had. Of course, now I’ve got to survive the landing,” Pinkie said to herself as she began to fall back down. “Mr. J said I could defy gravity and stuff right? So, I guess it’s now or never.” Pinkie continued to fall. She squirmed in the air and continued to fall. She flapped her wings and continued to fall. “Um um, chaos powers activate? Believe in yourself? Pretty Pink Pony Powers Activate? Suddenly rescued by a Pegasus out of no where? It’s all a bad dream and I wake up right before I hit?” Pinkie babbled incoherently before screaming. She curled into a ball, closed her eyes, and prayed it would hurt too much.

Sploosh! Pinkie opened her eyes to find herself at the bottom of a deep pool. The shock caused her to inhale, and she quickly swam to the surface where she started hacking up the water she had just breathed in. After several long minutes of retching and gasping she finally looked around. She was underground, with the only light coming down from a hole in the roof, with roots and vines trailing from the hole all the way down to the cut stone floor she lay on. There was the deep pool she had just climbed out of. It seemed she fell straight through the hole and managed to land perfectly in the small, but deep pool.

Finally, there was the large ruin. It was covered in ivy, mushrooms, and spider webs. The structure was held up by gigantic pillars, but one had long since collapsed, giving the building a half fallen down look. Water formed a stream coming out of the front door of the ruins, making its way to the pool Pinkie had just climbed out of. Pinkie sniffed and immediately gagged at the thick smell of rotten eggs in the air.

“Ugh, I hope that’s not another dragon,” Pinkie complained to herself. She took a deep breath, coughed a little, and stood up straight. “Time…for a nap. I need my rest after last night, and who knows what monsters and dangers are in that place?” Pinkie said, before finding a bed of moss underneath the patch of light. She yawned once, and soon fell asleep.
> Chapter 4.Twilight
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Show me the book that contains the spell for transforming apples into oranges.” A book appeared, Twilight fetched it, read the parts she wanted, and placed it near the growing pile.

“Show me the book with the method to break through anti magic restraints.” The process repeats. Spell after spell is memorized by Twilight, who spends hour after hour reading. Occasionally she’d summon some more food and water. Eventually though her eyes began to droop as started to get tired.

“Show me the book that contains the spells to remove my need for sleep,” she commanded the orb. Twilight began reading the book and memorized the difficult and dangerous spell. Deciding to rest before trying it, she conjured up a blanket and pillow before making a nest out of her books and going to sleep. When she awoke, she immediately looked at the spell again. She read the consequences of her actions, and finding that the spell doubled her study time, she cast it. Her horn lit up, creating a nebula of sparkling light in the air, and with some effort, she twisted it, forcing it through her ears. There was a pressure, and it felt like her head was in a vice, before it all finally gave way with a pop. Twilight’s eyes watered, and she sneezed loudly.

“That wasn’t too bad,” Twilight said, sniffing. “Let’s see what other improvements I can make. Show me a book with spells to permanently make me stronger.” A new book appeared, and Twilight quickly summoned it.

“This is really complex…” she muttered, as she read. “And the consequences, no. No, this one is a bad idea,” Twilight concluded, putting the book down. “But maybe I’m thinking about it wrong. Show me the book that will temporarily transform me into a dragon.”

Yet another book is read, but this one leaves her smiling. “Yes, that’s more like it. And this whole transformation idea is so fascinating. Show me the books that contain spells where I transform into something else.” Moments later a virtual cloud of books float through the air towards Twilight, who neatly stacks them around her, locking her in a wall of books.

“Let’s see, griffon, breezie, changling-wait really? Oh, that’s disgusting! Even Chrysalis should have standards. I guess that version of her didn’t. Umm, seapony, a tree, diamond dog, a human? What’s a human? Hmm, from the description it almost sounds like what Paradox is. I should check up on that later, see if they have any weaknesses we can exploit. A manticore, a spider, a Pegasus, an Alicorn?” Twilight dropped the book she was reading. “I turn into an alicorn?” she repeated, picking up the book and reading further, flipping pages frantically as she scanned the book.

“Only temporarily but…did it have to be? How about a permanent transformation?” Twilight browsed through her books, before finding one with what she sought. “Princess Twilight, a biography. The Princess of Friendship, Protector of Equestria, I like the sound of these titles. I wonder what else I accomplished in this timeline? Made peace with the Yaks, restored Griffonstone, hee hee,” Twilight giggled to herself. “And married Princess Celestia!?” Twilight slammed the book closed.

“That, that can’t be right,” Twilight said, laughing softly to herself. “I must have misread things, that’s all,” Twilight opened the book back up and reread the page she was on. She almost immediately slammed the book shut again. “Ehehe, well it’s not like that’s possible in this timeline right? I mean, Paradox said this was all possible futures so I guess there are some really weird ones. See, I’ll just look at another book and it’ll be more reasonable.”

Twilight grabbed a book at random and read her future. “I end up marrying both Luna and Celestia!” she shrieked. “No! That’s even weirder then before. See this one I end up with, ugh Trixie?” she said, grabbing a fresh book. “Here I’m with some random guard, then here’s one with Big Mac, and so on and so forth. This is just a waste of time,” Twilight grumbled, pushing over her wall of books and letting in collapse into a pile with a thud.

“I should be focused on what’s real, instead of a bunch of possibilities. In fact, I should’ve done this much earlier,” Twilight said, shaking her head. “Where are the Elements of Harmony?” she asked the orb. It quickly showed a picture of an overgrown mound of vines and ferns. The picture slowly zoomed out revealing the jungle that had consumed Canterlot’s Royal Gardens. The picture zoomed out further, showing the ongoing battle between the Royal Guard and the encroaching wildlife.

“That’s awful,” Twilight muttered, frowning. “But it shouldn’t be too difficult to recover the Elements of Harmony at least. Unless Paradox is preparing more traps and obstacles for us. I should check on him.” At Twilight’s command the orb shimmered and revealed Paradox. Twilight gasped in surprise. Paradox was walking in Griffonstone, but he was nearly unrecognizable from the being that Twilight had spoken to yesterday. His arms were so long they dragged on the ground, branches and vines were growing in place of his hair. He had a long tail, ending in an oversized white hand, and he had another face on the back of his head and every time he blinked his eyes would change color.

“What happened?” Twilight murmured, as she watched Paradox talk to an elderly griffon with a bad eye. The griffon opened a claw, clearly asking for money. Paradox laughed, and one of his arms shot into the sky and grabbed a cloud. Dragging it to the ground he gave it a shake, and golden coins began to rain down over the elderly griffon. The griffon gaped, before grabbing as many coins as he could and stuffing them beneath his hat. Paradox just laughed.

“Now tell me what’s wrong with this place,” Paradox said, winking at the screen Twilight was watching from. The griffon went off on a long explanation, telling Paradox all about their history and how they lost the Idol of Boreas to the Arimaspi and where it fell into the gorge. Paradox smiled and headed over to the gorge. Spitting into the dirt, Paradox raised a hand, and as he did, the bottom of the gorge rose with it. Within minutes, what was once a perilous gorge was now a flat plain with a merry river flowing through it. Paradox walked over a picked up the golden idol, inspecting it.

“That’s it? It’s just made of gold. No fancy magic powers, no mystic significance, nothing. How boring,” Paradox sighed, before grinning. “Well I can fix that!” Paradox clenched his hand around the idol which glowed with a brilliant rainbow light. When he released it, the idol kept glowing with a faint golden light. “Here, catch,” he said, tossing it to the old griffon. The griffon dropped the coins he was carrying and caught the idol.

The griffon glowed with a brilliant golden light, as lightning shot from the clear sky and engulfed him. His feathers gleamed and regrew, becoming a fierce gold. His size tripled, and his beak and claws became diamond.

“There! Now that’s more like it,” Paradox said in satisfaction. “Now the idol will empower the last griffon to touch it. You are now stronger, tougher, bigger, and ageless. So long as you don’t let anyone else touch the idol. Now go on and rebuild Griffonstone.” Paradox then blinked out of existence. Twilight drew her head back started, as the vision in the orb began to swirl. A minute later, the picture reformed. Now it showed Trixie holding a pick as she chipped away at a gigantic bolder. Suddenly the bolder cracked in half and a blue gas poured out. It swirled around Trixie, before gathering together into a large cloud, which eventually turned into Paradox. But now his skin was blue, and his legs were nothing more then blue vapor.

“You have freed me from my imprisonment!” Paradox boomed. “In gratitude, I shall grant you one wish.”

“I wish for unlimited wishes,” Trixie said, with no hesitation.

“Unlimited fishes? Okay, weird wish, but your wish is granted,” Paradox said, clapping his hands together. The universe shook, and Twilight yelped as her pile of books toppled on top of her. She couldn’t see what happened next, but when she pushed the books away, a living fish landed on her face. Looking up, she saw a cloud floating far in the air. Every now and then, a fish would fall from the cloud. Returning her attention to the orb, she saw the same scene being repeated in Trixie’s location. A dozen clouds had formed as fish began to drop and flop around.

“There. A wish granted, and world hunger solved at the same time,” Paradox nodded in satisfaction.

“Not fishes you dunderhead! Wishes!” Trixie yelled. Paradox chucked and picked Trixie up with an oversized hand. The pony yelped in fear as Paradox was suddenly the size of a gigantic dragon.

“I know what you meant Trixie,” Paradox said, smiling at the pony that now fit in the palm of his hand. “I just felt like playing a little joke. Now let me make this clear. I’m offering you a wish out of gratitude. Not because I’m following some sort of weird compulsion or genie law. Try and abuse my generosity again and I’ll leave you with a curse instead. Understand?” Trixie nodded, eyes wide. “Glad to hear it. Or see it, in this case. Now let’s see if we can figure out what you need.”

“What Trixie needs is the power to show Twilight Sparkle whose boss,” Trixie said, raising her snout.

“Why?” Paradox asked.

“Why? Why? Because Twilight Sparkle showed up Trixie! Now everypony believes Trixie is a fraud and laughs at her. They vandalize my wagon, mock me behind my back, and refuse to come to my shows!”

“Hmph, and she blames me for all of that?” Twilight said, grumpily.

“Sure, but none of that is Twilight’s fault,” Paradox said.

“You tell her,” Twilight cheered.

“Really, it seems more like you need some way to show ponies that you are amazing. I mean, let’s say I made you super powerful, and then you went and beat up Twilight. Ponies still wouldn’t like you. I mean most still wouldn’t believe that you actually did it, since they think you’re a fraud. And the rest would be angry at you, because Twilight is a hero of Equestria, and beating up on her is a villainous thing to do,” Paradox continued. “But I think I’ve got just what you need,”

“What is it?” Trixie asked, looking up at Paradox suspiciously.

“A little transformation to make you more impressive,” Paradox said. Trixie’s eyes widened in panic. “Oh, don’t worry. If you don’t like it, I’ll change you back,” Paradox promised. He closed his fist around Trixie and squeezed. Trixie yelped in pain, but a moment later Paradox and Trixie were both standing back on the field where they started. Only now, Trixie was sporting a large pair of wings.

“Behold the Great and Powerful Princess Trixie!” Paradox said, dramatically. Trixie flapped her new wings once or twice before grinning.

“Hahahahaha, oh this is wonderful! I can’t wait to see the look on Twilight Sparkle’s face,” Trixie laughed.

“Enjoy,” Paradox said, grinning. “Now I’m off to go do some more good deeds,” Paradox added, disappearing in a puff of smoke.

Twilight stared blankly, completely shocked by what just happened.

“How is that a good deed?” she asked the empty room. “I mean, sure Trixie’s happy, and yeah, I don’t think many ponies are going to make fun of Trixie anymore, but he didn’t really address the reason why ponies started making fun of Trixie.” Twilight rubbed her aching head. “Well, I guess he’s trying at least. Maybe if he somepony were to guide him onto a better path, he might end up being a real force for good. Well, no sense leaving it as a mystery. Orb, show me the books that contain the futures in which we befriend Paradox and don’t use the Elements of Harmony on him.”

Minutes later, Twilight had a stack of fresh books by her side, as she began to read. She skimmed through one book and carelessly tossed it aside, frowning. The next book met with the same result. And the next. And the next. Finally, when Twilight reached for the next book, she found nothing but the hard floor at her side.

“Not a single good result. Every time there is nothing but disaster and mayhem if Paradox remains free,” Twilight muttered to herself. “But why?”