> Fight For Love > by AestheticStory_Cathe > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1: Day Off > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Moons have passed since the defeat of Chrysalis, Tirek, and Cozy Glow. A purple alicorn mare, Princess Twilight Sparkle, woke up from her slumber in the morning. She stretched and got ready for the day. Ever since Twilight and her friends defeated the Legion of Doom, peace has been restored throughout Equestria. The Mane 6 has been able to relax again without having the pressure to protect Equestria. Today, they were going to go to the spa in Ponyville together. But ever since her highness’s coronation, Twilight moved to Canterlot, so it isn’t very often that they get to get together. Even though the rest of her friends live in Ponyville together, they also have their own responsibilities there. But today is going to be different. They’re going to spend the whole day together as friends once more. Twilight left her responsibilities to Spike so that she could relax today. Even though she refused at first, Spike managed to convince her to go. And she did. She was currently on the train to Ponyville. It’s been about 2 weeks since the last time she saw her friends. And she couldn’t wait to see them again. Rarity sighed as she got a hooficure, “It’s been forever since we’ve hung out like this, girls.” “I know it’s been a while, but I’m glad that I can spend this whole day with you five.” Twilight replied as she got a massage. Her friends nodded in agreement. “I agree,” Dash sighed, “We hadn’t had a hang out since forever...” “It has been so long, but now, let’s change the topic to something more... Exciting.” Applejack said. Rarity nodded, “Yes, we have so much catching up to do!” She squealed. Pinkie had a wide smile on her face as she whisper-shouted a sentence. Everyone stopped what they were doing and looked at her. “What’d you say, Pinkie?” Rainbow Dash asked as she got into a seated position. She couldn’t hold in her excitement anymore as she shouted, “Cheese Sandwich is coming to Ponyville, tomorrow!” Everyone gasped in surprise and happiness. “Really?” Fluttershy asked in her timid voice. Pinkie nodded, “Yep! He’s coming!” “Darling, if I remembered correctly,” Rarity started, “Don’t you have a crush on the stallion?” Pinkie turned slightly red as her friends teased her about her crush on the party planner. “Aww, that’s adorable.” “Mhm. She definitely has a crush on him.” Fluttershy giggled. Pinkie’s attention turned to her as she pointed out, “Don’t you have a crush on Discord, Fluttershy?” “Discord?!” Rainbow cried out, “Him?! Really, Flutters?” Rarity waved her hoof, “Come on, darling. Don’t tell me you didn’t know. It’s painfully obvious those two like each other more than friends.” Fluttershy had a small blush on her cheeks as she nodded, “I won’t lie, Discord is really sweet even though he is the Lord of Chaos. But do you promise not to tell him?” Twilight laughed, “It’s okay, Fluttershy. We won’t say a thing.” Twilight assured her shy friend, “Right, girls?” Everyone nodded. “Absolutely!” “Of course, we won’t say a word.” “Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!” “Don’t worry, Flutters. But if he ever lays a claw or paw on you, let me know.” Rainbow Dash warned Fluttershy smiled at her oldest friend, “Don’t worry, Rainbow Dash. He won’t.” “I know he won’t. I’ll make sure of it.” Rainbow smirked and everyone started laughing, “But seriously, if anything happens, let me know.” Fluttershy smiled and nodded. “Enough about Fluttershy and Pinkie,” Everyone looked at Rarity, “Hearts and Hooves Day is right around the corner. Who are you guys going to go with?” Pinkie shrugged, “Eh, beats me. But I’m hoping Cheese will ask me.” Fluttershy nodded, “If Discord asks then I won’t mind going.” “Well, you two already have somepony in mind,” Rarity started, “But what about you three?” She pointed at Twilight, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack. “Oh! Ah probably won’t be going.” AJ replied, “I mean, Ah don’t know anyone who’d want to go with me. Plus, I have some chores to finish on Hearts and Hooves Day.” “Yeah, me too.” RD said with a small smile, “I’d rather just hang out with AJ at the farm or something.” “That just leaves Twilight.” Pinkie pointed out, “Are you going to come on Hearts and Hooves Day?” “Probably not.” The Princess of Friendship responded. Rarity’s expression changed into an upset one, “Well, why not, darling? Can you not come? Because I thought you were staying till’ after Hearts and Hooves Day.” She sighed in sadness, “I thought so too, but turns out I can’t come. I have some royal duties in the Crystal Empire, so I’ll be gone for a week and by the time I get back, Hearts and Hooves Day would have already ended.” Twilight looked down, “Well, that and the fact that I don’t have a special somepony. I’m just so busy with my duties that I don’t have much time to think about other things.” “Well, that’s a bummer.” Rainbow spoke up. Fluttershy nodded, “Oh, I wish you didn’t have to go, Twilight.” “Yes, I agree with Fluttershy. Even if you didn’t have a special somepony, you could’ve still spent time with us,” Rarity said, “I don’t have a special somepony either.” Rainbow Dash cocked her eyebrow in confusion, “Really? I’d expect you to be the first one of us to even get a special somepony.” “Honestly, I thought so, too. But I guess the world had other plans.” She sighed, “But it’s fine. I still have my friends with me. And I wouldn’t trade you guys for the world.” Pinkie had a smile on her face with some tears, “Ah! It’s so emotional!” She ran up to Rarity and hugged her. She returned the hug and everyone else joined in. After they finished at the spa, they went to a restaurant to have lunch. And afterward, they decided to go walk around town and they restored some memories while they’re at it. “You guys remember when AJ had a lack of sleep and she sent me flying all the way to Twilight’s Library?” Rainbow asked “I still remember that day like the back of my hoof,” Twilight laughed, “She was so stubborn back then.” “She still is very stubborn ‘till today, Twilight.” Rarity pointed out and everyone, minus Applejack, started laughing. AJ blushed and decided to change the topic, “Alright, alright. Ya’ll had your laugh, let’s change the topic, now.” Pinkie raised her hoof in excitement, “Ooh! Remember when Cadence and Shining Armor were expecting?” “Oh yeah,” Twilight said, “You already knew about it and had a hard time keeping it a secret.” “Tell me about it.” Pinkie rolled her eyes in a joking manner. They kept remembering more and more memories that they hadn’t realized that hours have passed and that it was already sunset. And since Twilight isn’t at Canterlot to do it, she asked Celestia and Luna to cover for that day. And once they realized it was late, they started retiring themselves to go home. “Oh, I was having so much fun with you all that I hadn’t realized it’s getting late.” Twilight stated as the sun went down. Dash looked at the sun and asked, “How is the sun going down if you’re not doing it?” “I asked Celestia and Luna to cover for me today.” She explained, “So then I wouldn’t have to worry about it when hanging out with you guys.” “Well, the moon’s comin’ out,” The farmer spoke up, “I’mma go home and retire for the day. See ya’ll later.” “I gotta get home as well to tuck the critters in.” Fluttershy said. And everyone started separating ways until Pinkie shouted, “Wait!” Everyone stopped and looked at her, “What is it, Pinkie?” “Today’s the only day for a long time until Twilight’s gonna come back to Ponyville,” Pinkie started “Your point, darling?” Rarity raised her eyebrow. “My point is that we shouldn’t waste the night not being together,” She said, “We should have a sleepover at Twilight’s old castle!” Twilight thought of it and said, “Pinkie Pie, you’re a genius!” “Yeah, I have my moments.” The pink mare said “But I still have to tuck the critters for the night.” Fluttershy spoke “And you will,” Twilight assured, “But after, we’ll meet back at my castle.” “Alright.” “Great! Everyone meet me at my place at 7. See you guys!” Twilight shouted as she ran towards her castle. “See ya’ll!” “See you later!” Rarity, Pinkie Pie, AJ, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy all met up in front of Twilight’s Castle. They knocked on the door and Twilight answered, “Great, you’re all here!” Everypony entered and got settled in. Even though it was their old castle, it kinda got turned into an attraction site ever since the Mane 6 moved out and went back to their respective households. Though they still visit the castle often to hang out or to renew the memories they made there. They settled in the master bedroom of the castle and were currently sitting in the throne room. “What kind of responsibilities do you have in the Crystal Empire tomorrow, Twilight?” “I’m not sure, but I do know it has something related to getting information about something that’s been going on with the Crystal Heart.” “Oh, dear,” Rarity said, “Is something wrong with it?” “I don’t know, yet,” Twilight admitted, “But I will find out tomorrow.” “But Twilight, who’ll be in charge of your castle while you’re gone?” The cream coated pegasus asked. “My castle?” Twilight sipped her tea, “My castle?! Oh, I forgot about leaving someone in charge.” Rarity and Applejack looked at each other in confusion. Rarity then asked, “Why so, Twilight? I thought Spike was already in charge of it.” “Well, yeah. But he can’t manage the whole castle for a whole week without me,” She freaked, “He still hasn’t remembered every royal duty I have that needs to be done.” “Oh, that is a problem.” Applejack said “I know!” Twilight let her wings go limp as she fell to the floor, “Aughh!” Rarity put her front hoof to her chin as she got an idea. She looked at Applejack with a large smile and AJ instantly knew what it meant as she said, “No. Absolutely not.” “Oh, come on, Applejack. It’s for Twilight.” Rarity pushed further. AJ groaned, “Fine.” “Yes!” The fancy unicorn squealed, “Twilight?” “Hmm?” She answered while still laying on the floor. “Me and Applejack could handle things while you’re at the Crystal Empire,” She said, “Right, Applejack?” “Mhm. Absolutely.” AJ smiled. Twilight looked up and asked, “But don’t you have chores to do back at Sweet Apple Acres?” “Well, no. I went back to the farm and finished all of ‘em.” She explained, “So I’m free to help you with yer responsibilities back at Canterlot. Plus, Rarity’s going to be there as well to help.” “Thank you. I really am lucky to have friends like you guys.” Twilight thanked as Fluttershy helped her get up. Everyone came in for a hug and when they separated they heard a knock. Pinkie jumped up and down while shouting, “Pizza’s here!” Everyone instantly got up and left. Everyone, except for Twilight. She used her magic to grab a mirror and she looked at herself. She asked herself, “Why do I always have to rely on my friends for help? Can I not take care of myself anymore?” Pinkie popped her head in the room with a slice of pizza in her mouth asking, “Don’t you want pizza?” Twilight shyly nodded her head with a smile while Pinkie zoomed back to the dining room. Twilight left the room while looking down in shame. She wasn’t looking where she was going and she bumped into someone. She rubbed her head and cleared her vision. And as soon as her vision cleared, she saw Starlight rubbing her head. “Starlight?” Twilight asked in disbelief as she hasn’t seen her pupil in ages because Starlight was always so busy working at the School of Friendship as Headmare every time she came to Ponyville to visit. And it looked like she just came back from work since she was still in her Principal Attire. Starlight looked up from the ground and was in shock to see her former friendship teacher, “Twilight?” She rubbed her eyes to make sure that she wasn’t dreaming, and when she realized that Twilight was really here, “Twilight!” She jumped into a hug with her friend, “Oh, it’s so good to see you again.” Twilight laughed, “It has been a while. So, how’s leading the School of Friendship going?” They broke the hug and Starlight answered, “It’s been going well. Sunburst and Trixie are always there to help me with any trouble. Though Sunburst’s been acting a bit off these last few days and I keep catching him sneaking off with Trixie,” She said with worry in her eyes, “You think something’s going on between them?” “Ooh, somepony sounds jealous...” Twilight teased. “What?! No!” Starlight denied, “I am not jealous of my own best friends.” She crossed her hooves in denial before looking over at Twilight who had a raised eyebrow, “Okay. Maybe I am a little bit jealous.” Twilight’s expression softened, “Don’t worry, Starlight. If I know Trixie and Sunburst, they’re just friends. Really good friends that is, but I know that nothings gonna become more of that.” She winked. “But how would you know that?” Starlight asked. “I may or may not have gotten some help from my sister-in-law.” She winked for the second time which made Starlight go a little bit red. After they ate, they all got settled in their beds, ready to go to sleep. They also decided to ask Starlight if she wanted to join, and of course, she said yes. After a few minutes of convincing her that she won’t be a burden to their reunion. “I don’t know about ya’ll but,” The country mare yawned, “I’m ready to hit the hay.” “Me, too.” Rainbow Dash added. Pinkie jumped on top of Twilight’s bed as she shouted, “Are you kidding me?! This is so exciting I don’t know how I could ever-“ Her sentence got cut off as she fell asleep on the edge of Twilight’s bed. Everyone just smiled at their friend, except for Starlight who asked, “Should we wake her up or do something about her?” “Just let her be, darling,” Rarity chimed in, “She’s just very tired after a whole day of fun.” A yawn interrupted her as she added, “And so am I. Goodnight, everypony.” She slid on her eye mask and fell asleep. Everyone else started yawing and they also said their goodnight’s. “Well, goodnight everyone.” “Night.” “Sweet dreams, everypony.” “Don’t let the bed bugs bite.” Fluttershy jolted up from her bed after Rainbow said that, “Bed bugs?!” “Rainbow!” Twilight and Applejack shouted. The rainbow maned pegasus laughed sheepishly and as she bashfully said, “Oops. Hehe, sorry, Fluttershy.” Fluttershy tucked herself back in bed as she said, “No worries, Rainbow Dash.” “Well, anyways, goodnight again, everypony.” “Goodnight.” Pinkie even woke up for a brief second to say, “Nighty-night, everyone!” She then fell back asleep, drooling. The rest of the ponies who were awake shrugged and laughed softly so that they wouldn’t wake the others up. And after a few minutes, the whole room was filled with gentle snores from the sleeping ponies. And unbeknownst to them, a black mist watched the scene, and right after everyone fell asleep, it zoomed to Canterlot at light speed. It reached the Canterlot Gardens and engulfed the statue of Chrysalis, Tirek, and Cozy Glow. A crack appeared in the statue as the black mist overtook one of the creatures before it started sinking into it. That being started to shift in place before accepting the mist in. > Chapter 2: Relationships Change > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was the next day and the train station at Ponyville was filled with creatures saying their goodbyes to Twilight, Rarity, and Applejack. “Hope you’ll visit again soon, Headmare Twilight,” Silverstream said, “It was nice having you help with some of the problems at the School of Friendship.” Twilight chuckled, “Of course I’ll visit, Silverstream. And about the problems back at the school, it wasn’t that big of a deal. And I’ll tell Gallus that you miss him when I get back.” She winked. Silver blushed and started sinking back into the crowd. Most of the Young 6, except Gallus who’s a guard in training in Canterlot, said their farewells and left to go back to their work. “Oh, come back soon, girls.” Fluttershy smiled. “Well, we’ll be back by the end of the week.” Applejack confirmed, “Right, Rare?” “Absolutely. But now, we must get going.” Rarity responded. Twilight nodded, “Mhm. I can’t miss the train to the Crystal Empire and Rarity and Applejack needs to get to Canterlot. By the way, I’ve informed the castle and Spike about your arrival.” “Well, I’m sure we aren’t that important that the whole castle should know about it.” Rarity said while primming her mane. Applejack groaned at her, but quickly let it go, “Anyways, we’ll see ya’ll later!” “Ta-ta!” “Bye, girls!” “See you later!” “Bye!” Applejack and Rarity entered the train to Canterlot while Twilight entered the train to the Empire. Both trains set off and it was going to be a long trip, so they settled in their cars and waited ‘till they arrive. Meanwhile, back with Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie. “Twilight! Applejack! Rarity!” Pinkie shouted, “Don’t forget us!” She tripped over a rock running after the train and pouted before trotting back to the two pegasi. Pinkie sighed, “So, what do you two plan on doing?” “Not sure since I was supposed to hang out with AJ and Rarity after Twilight left.” Rainbow replied. “Well, today’s Tuesday, and Discord will be coming over for tea today, so I’ll excuse myself,” Fluttershy said as she started flying home, “Bye, girls.” Dash looked at her and sighed, “Guess it’s just you and me, Pinkie.” She looked back to her pink friend, but found her staring at nothing, “Pinkie?” She waved her hoof in front of her and after a couple of times, she finally woke up from her trance. “What?! Oh, oh! Sorry, Rainbow Dash.” Pinkie apologized, “I just remembered that me and Cheese had a previous arrangement and that we were supposed to meet up right about now... Welp, gotta go! Bye, Dashie!” Pinkie bounced off. “So, it’s just me... Wish I had something planned for today like my friends.” Dash said to herself out loud. But unknown to her was that somepony, who was just passing by, heard all that. That pony thought to himself and decided to do something about it as he flew off. After a few hours of being on the train, they finally arrived at Canterlot. Applejack and Rarity got up and off to the Canterlot Castle. As soon as they arrived at the front, the guards opened the gate and let them in. They both unpacked in their personal guest rooms and after being done with that. They went into the throne room and were greeted by Spike, who was now a few feet taller, much to their surprise. “Applejack! Rarity! You guys made it!” He exclaimed as he went up to them and hugged them. They both returned it. “Of course we did, darling. Twilight said that she needed help so we volunteered.” Rarity clarified. “Y-yes. What Rarity said.” AJ stuttered. “Alright. I’ll go get the list from Twilight’s Room,” Spike said, “Be right back.” The white unicorn noticed her friend’s stutter, unlike Spike, and decided to question it after he had left the room, “Applejack, darling. Are you okay?” The country mare looked at her questioningly, “What dya mean?” “Well, you stuttered with your words and I want to know why.” She explained. “Oh,” AJ started, “It was nothing really.” Rarity raised a brow, but decided not to push further, “Well, if you say so, darling.” After finishing their little conversation, Spike came back in the room holding a very long scroll that was filled with lists of things they needed to do for the day as both Rarity and Applejack whispered, “Oh, boy.” Laughter could be heard from outside of Fluttershy’s cottage. Inside was a draconequus and a pegasus mare talking with each other. They even snuck in some flirts in their little chat. “So Fluttershy, what have you been doing these days?” Discord asked as he sipped his tea, “I mean, ever since Twilight left to Canterlot you and the girls have been a bit sad. And I’m curious because today you don’t seem as upset.” Fluttershy giggled, “Oh, that’s because Twilight came over for a visit yesterday. And because of that, I feel really happy to see her again,” She sighed, “Last time we saw each other was for business, but this time it was for fun like usual.” Discord slightly frowned but nonetheless was happy that Fluttershy was happy, “Well, as long as you’re happy, my dear. I just want to see that radiant smile of yours because that’s all I need to be happy as well.” He smiled and Fluttershy smiled at him in return. “Enough about my life, what about yours? Have you been able to expand your circle of friends yet?” The pegasus mare asked. His face started drooping, “It’s kind of hard to do so if you’re the all-time, powerful Lord of Chaos. Every time I approach someone, they always run away.” The draconequus sighed as he looked at the opposite direction. Fluttershy frowned for her friend, “I’m sure not every pony is afraid of you,” She said as he looked back at her with a raised brow, “You’ve changed a lot over the past few years, you’re a whole new creature. And if a timid pony like me can be your friend, then other ponies can certainly be your friends too.” Discord smiled at his friend’s compassion, “Thank you, Fluttershy. You always know just what to say.” They both leaned into a hug as Discord secretly thought, “Though I wish we could be something more than that.” And little did he know, a small blush painted on Fluttershy’s cheeks as they were hugging. It took a few hours longer to get to the Crystal Empire than to get to Canterlot. Twilight just made it as she got her luggage and left the train with a polite, “Thank you.” She started walking and she eventually made it to the front of the palace. She was greeted by her sister-in-law and her brother, though the Princess of Love got to her first, “Twilight!” “Cadence!” Twilight shouted as she ran up to her. They hugged each other and did their little greetings with each other. “Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake,” They both chanted, “Clap your hooves and do a little shake.” “Oh, it’s so good to see you again, Twilight.” Her sister said. Shining Armor walked up to his wife and said, “We’re really excited to catch up and we have some exciting news for you.” He said the last part as he winked at Cadence. Twilight’s eyes lit up and she asked, “Ooh! What kind of news?” “For that, you’ll have to wait.” “Oh, well.” The couple led her to the Crystal Heart and she gasped when she saw it. No. It wasn’t shattered or anything like the last time. The heart had just turned into a black shade of its natural aqua. And it also had some tiny cracks. “What could have caused this?” She asked in shock. Shining shook his head, “We still don’t know yet, Twily. But hopefully, we’ll figure it out in this meeting.” Twilight sighed, “I hope so too. The last thing we need is for another evil villain to be on the loose.” Cadence nodded her head in agreement as they entered the castle. Though as soon as they entered, Twilight got tackled by a little filly and the filly giggled as her aunt lifted her up with her magic. “Hey there, Flurry.” Twilight cuddled the yearling and she earned back a hug. Flurry hugged her B.A.E / Best Aunt Ever as she replied, “Hi, Aunty Twily! I miss you...” The baby alicorn cooed. “Awe, I miss you, too, Flurry,” Twilight said back as she placed her niece back on the floor, “But I can’t talk right now, I wish I could, Flurry, but I have a meeting with your parents... Surely, you understand.” The baby nodded, “Of course, Auntie. I can talk to you later! Bye-bye!” And with that, the alicorn flew and teleported away as Twilight waved goodbye. She looked back at the family and said, “Now, let’s get back to work.” Twilight was in front of them while they were walking. She closed her eyes for a mere second and the next thing she knew was that she had bumped into something, or rather someone. She rubbed her head and saw Flash Sentry. She hadn’t seen him in so long. Almost a year or probably longer. She used to have a crush on him but got over him back at Ponyville. But now that she’s seen him again, she’s taken a liking to him for the second time now. She was so lost in trance that she hadn’t noticed that he was lending a hoof and was talking to her, “Your majesty, are you alright?” Twilight shook her head out of the trance and nodded her head, “Yes. Thank you, Sir Sentry.” He looked a bit surprised since they hadn’t talked in more than a year, “You remember my name?” “Well, of course. I may have not seen you in over a year, and I may not be Pinkie Pie. But I certainly still remember meeting you on my first Princess Summit.” She blushed. Flash might have been blushing as well, but the armor headpiece would’ve blocked it. He snapped out of it and said, “My apologies for wasting your time,” He bowed to the royals, “But I must get back to my station. I’ll see you later, Princess.” He walked away and Twilight walked back to her brother and sister-in-law, “It’s been so long since I’ve seen or even talked to him.” “I can see you’ve taken a liking to him once again, Twilight.” Cadence said with a sly face which made Twilight blush. Though his brother doesn’t really like the idea of Twilight dating. But after a moment of thinking, Sentry was one of the best guards here and he is very nice. So if they started dating, he would approve. After all, he prefers Flash to any other pony or creature to date his own sister. “Well now, let’s go back to our meeting.” Twilight said to change the subject. Once they got to the meeting room with no interruptions, they started talking about the elephant in the castle. The ‘Black’ Crystal Heart. “So you’re saying that this happened out of nowhere?” Twilight asked. “Yes,” Cadence answered, “We were just about to leave the castle when we saw the state the Crystal Heart was in.” “But how come the Empire hasn’t turned into a winter wasteland yet?” The Princess of Friendship asked, “If the Crystal Heart wasn’t working anymore, then it shouldn’t be able to protect the Empire...” “We aren’t exactly sure why the Crystal Heart is like this, nor why it can still protect the Empire,” Shining started, “But one thing we do know is that the Crystal Heart has not been able to spread Light and Love like it used too.” Cadence nodded, “We got the ‘spreading love’ under control, but it turns out my magic doesn’t spread light anymore.” Twilight gasped in horror at this new information, “If you can’t spread light anymore, there isn’t any balance in Equestria! And if there’s no balance, there’s no harmony!” She started hyperventilating until her brother came behind her and stroked her back to calm her down. Once she calmed down, they got back to the subject. Pinkie bounced over to a hill that Cheese asked her to come to. And once she made it, there was no pony there, “Hmm, I swore this is where Cheese asked me to meet him... Where could he be?” She thought until she heard laughter from a tree above her, “Cheese?” He jumped down and smiled brightly, “Pinkie!” “Cheese!” Pinkie yelled as she embraced her fellow party pony. They separated and she asked, “How long will you be staying?” “Until after Hearts and Hooves Day, I have another invitation from Appleloosa.” Cheese responded with a tip of his hat, “Sadly.” He whispered the last word so that Pinkie wouldn’t hear. “Oh, that’s a bummer.” She sighed, “We could’ve had so much fun together!” “I know, and that’s why I wanna spend the whole week with you! Not a moment to waste!” Cheese declared with a dramatic pose. Pinkie placed one of her hooves on her chest in awe, dramatically, “Awe, that’s so sweet, Cheese! So let’s get started on the activities!” She shouted as she pulled him with her while thinking, “I hope you’ll ask me out on Hearts and Hooves Day, Cheese...” As they were running through town, they were blushing the whole way. Applejack, Rarity, and Spike finally finished Twilight’s Royal Duties such as the Grand Opening of a new restaurant, judging the Royal Art Contest, and etc. And since they finished their duties for the day, they decided to have a break. Rarity went off to the Canterlot City to explore while Applejack and Spike were left in the throne room in awkward silence. And Spike was the one to break that, “Hey, AJ...” “Howdy, Spike,” She tipped her hat, “We haven’t really properly talked to each other since I’ve got to the castle. Anyways, how have you been doing?” “I’ve been great, being the Royal Advisor to Twilight has been pretty great.” He replied, the nervousness hinted in his voice. “That’s good. My, you’ve grown quite tall in a few moons,” She looked at him up and down. He laughed, “Yeah, ever since my molt, I’ve been growing faster. You’re still pretty even though you’ve aged.” She blushed furiously and her head shot up as soon as she heard him say that, “What’d you say?” Realizing that he called her ‘pretty’, he instantly blushed and said, “I mean, you still look great though you’ve aged! Hehe, not that I’m calling you old, you’re still very young and-“ She cut him off by placing her hoof on his mouth to stop him, “Stop. I know you’re not calling me old, Spike. I was just surprised you called me- never mind...” “Phew! For a second I thought you were mad at me.” He sighed in relief, not realizing her tomato-red face, “Uh, wanna go to the balcony?” “S-sure.” AJ stammered, “The sky tonight’s beautiful.” “Yeah, it is.” Spike agreed, “Though it isn’t as pretty as a certain pony I know...” He thought. They just kept talking to each other happily until Applejack brought up an old subject. “Do ya still like Rarity, Spike?” She asked He looked at her with a raised brow, “You kidding? No way, I got over her moons ago! Long before Twilight’s Coronation. But I do have a new pony in mind...” He whispered the last sentence, but AJ heard it. “Who’s the new pony ya like?” She asked with uncertainty. “I can’t say, but she’s very beautiful, hard-working, strong physically and emotionally, kind...” He sighed, “But I doubt she’d ever like me back...” AJ placed an affectionate hoof on his shoulder, “Oh, come on, Spike. I’m pretty sure she likes ya back.” “You think so?” He asked. “It’s possible,” She answered, but deep down, she had wished that pony was her as she thought, “Oh, Spike. I wish I could be your special somepony...” Rarity had left the Castle to explore more in Canterlot. There had been a lot of changes since she was here last time because now more creatures live here. Though in her sight-seeing, she wasn’t looking where she was going and she bumped into someone. “Oh, I’m so sorry!” She apologized to whoever she bumped into, “I wasn’t looking where I was going.” The pony she bumped into replied, “Well, I say that’s one way to reunite with my favorite pony from Ponyville.” The white unicorn’s eyes perked up as she’d recognize that voice from anywhere. She looked up to see the one and only, “Fancy Pants.” He could only chuckle at her reaction, “Jolly good to see you again, Rarity.” She shook her head and said, “Oh, Fancy. I’m so sorry for bumping into you.” “No problem,” He brushed the dust off of him, “I say, have you had dinner yet, M’lady?” She faintly blushed when he called her ‘M’lady’, “N-no. I haven’t, I was just about to go get some.” “Well, would you like to come and have dinner with me? My treat.” He offered. Her eyes widened in excitement as an opportunity opened up for her, “W-why, of course. So, where are we going?” “We’re going to go have lunch at the new restaurant that just opened up.” He replied as they started walking towards the building that was just a few yards from where they were. “Oh, dear.” Rarity gasped. Fancy stopped and turned around, “Is there something wrong, Rarity?” “O-oh, it’s not that big of a problem, but it’s just that...” She started, “I don’t have the money to afford the food there. I was just there for the grand opening and I saw that the food there was really expensive, so I don’t think I can dine there...” “Well, I wouldn’t mind paying for the dinner.” He said. “Are you sure? I wouldn’t want to trouble you.” Rarity asked. “It’s no trouble at all, Rarity,” He assured her, “Come now, we must get going.” Rarity smiled at the generosity of her old Canterlot friend, but she was surprised that Fleur wasn’t anywhere in sight. Fancy and Fleur barely separated, so this made her curious. But she waited until they were already inside before she asked. “I’d like to get a Bruschetta and two glasses of wine, sir,” Fancy ordered, “ And what would you like, Ms. Rarity?” “I’ll just have a French Tartiflette and a glass of cold water, please?” Rarity ordered. “It’ll all be ready in 5 minutes.” The waiter checked as he left. “I hope that won’t cost you, Fancy...” Rarity said. “No worries, Rarity. It isn’t a big deal.” He replied. “I hope so, but now I want to ask a question.” Rarity informed. “Of course, darling.” “Why isn’t Fleur here? Every time I see you, you’re always with her...” She asked. Fancy’s expression saddened, but he still kept a professional look, “Well, just two weeks ago, I found her cheating on me with another stallion. So, I ended things with her.” He simply explained. “Oh, dear. I’m very sorry for bringing up the subject, but if I may ask...” He looked at her, “Who did she cheat on you with?” “I don’t actually know. She never revealed who it was, but I did catch her doing it with someone else. But she covered him up before I could see.” He slammed the table lightly in anger. “Oh, I hope you find a new pony that won’t do things behind your back.” Rarity said sympathetically. “I hope so, too. Say, are you free tomorrow morning?” He asked, “I want to invite you to a party back at my place.” “Oh, I’d have to check my schedule, but I’m pretty sure I’m free for the morning.” Rarity replied, holding back a squeal. “Well, then I’d love to see you again tomorrow at 9 a.m.” Fancy said. “I’ll be there.” She declared. After finishing their conversation, the food came and they ate peacefully. And after they finished, they parted ways. And once Rarity reached her room in the castle, she took a pillow from her bed, covered her face with it, and screamed in happiness. Applejack heard the scream and came into the room, “Rarity? What’s got you so happy? Something amazing happened?” Rarity smirked, “You can say that.” > Chapter 3: More Bonding > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The sun is up and it’s time for the citizens of Equestria to get up. Applejack got up and was about to get out of bed when she just realized that she was in the castle’s medical center. “What the- How’d ah end up here?” She thought to herself. She started scrolling through her memories of what happened last night to try and remember what had happened. The last thing she remembered before falling asleep was talking with Rarity... Applejack heard a muffled scream that came from Rarity’s room and decided to check out on what happened, “Rarity? What’s got you so happy? Something amazing happened?” Rarity smirked, “You can say that.” She chuckled, “Let me guess, you got hooked up or something?” “Well, sort of like that... Fancy Pants just got out of his relationship with Fleur De Lis,” She explained, “And he’s asked me to come to a party at his place tomorrow.” “Hmm... I don’t know, you said that Fancy Pants just got out of his relationship. Seems a bit too fast of him to go ask you out right there and then...” Applejack looked at Rarity’s pleading eyes and added, “But then again, if it makes you happy and you do want to go-“ “I do! Yes, I really do want to go!” Rarity pleaded, “Please, Applejack. Fancy Pants’ the most eligible bachelor in all of Canterlot right now. This might be my only chance to get him to be my coltfriend-” “Alright! Alright! I get it!” She cut Rarity off by pushing her off of herself, “Ya don’t have to start with all that.” She then yawned, “You go do what you think is right, but right now,” Applejack cut herself off as she yawned again, “Let’s go hit the hay, and tomorrow you can go to his party. Spike and I can handle things while yer gone. Night, Rare.” Rarity yawned as well, “Okay. Goodnight, Applejack...” She grabbed her sleep mask, placed it over her eyes, snuggled into her bed, and she was out in a blink of an eye. Applejack chuckled as she closed the door and started walking down the hallway. She kept walking and the further she walked, the darker it got. It started getting so dark to the point where it left shivers down your spine. Applejack felt a presence behind her and she looked back but saw nothing, so she kept moving. Her room was just a few more rooms down. But as soon as she looked back to the front, she felt something behind her again. She looked behind her but again, there was no one behind her, nor were there any footsteps. She kept walking but she picked up the pace. She was very close to her bedroom, just five more doors when she heard a whisper in her ear, “Applejack...” She looked around in confusion and fright, but there wasn’t anypony or any creature, for that matter, there. Whatever was in the halls with her kept on whispering in her ear, “Applejack... Applejack...” “Show yerself! Whoever ya are...” Applejack got into a fighting stance in case something pounced. But nothing did, it was just whispers. She was about to keep walking when a black flash in her eyes stopped her. The darkness slowly slipped away but when she tried to take a step, she felt woozy all of a sudden. She forced herself to keep up and get into her room, but she eventually gave out and let the darkness consume her. She fell to the ground with a thud. She heard footsteps coming towards her, she couldn’t see who it was though. She wanted to just get up and run away, but she couldn’t muster up the strength to do so. She heard muffled sounds but she couldn’t tell who or what the creature was saying. She felt herself being carried before she passed out. “AJ, you’re finally awake.” A new voice spoke up, getting her out of the very unpleasant memory that had happened last night. She looked beside her and saw Spike sitting in a chair beside her. “What? Spike? Why am I in here? What happened?” She asked in anxiety. Spike chuckled, “Whoa, take it easy, AJ. I just heard a thud outside of my room and saw you lying on the ground. I was practically screaming your name to see if you would wake up. And when you didn’t, I just took you to the medical center.” AJ was holding the blanket over her in slight embarrassment, “O-Oh, that was mighty kind of ya to help me, but I’m f-fine now. I need to get going- Oh, ah...” She started sitting up, but a wave of pain made her put her hooves to her temples as she held her head in pain. Spike got up from his chair and helped her lay down on her back again. “You need to take it easy for the rest of the day. Nurse Redheart said that you have a migraine headache. I’ll be handling all the duties for the morning since Rarity’s gonna be going to a party at Fancy’s.” Spike explained. Being the stubborn pony she is, Applejack refused to let a headache stop her from doing her work, “Uh-uh, absolutely not. Ah’m not gonna let a silly little headache stop me from doing Twilight’s duties.” Spike’s expression turned serious, “Applejack, this is serious. You don’t just have a ‘silly little’ headache. You have a major headache. You can’t work in this condition,” He explained in concern as Applejack just pouted at him, “Just rest and you’ll feel better tomorrow.” Applejack looked at him and started glaring. He glared back at her. Even though Spike doesn’t have The Stare like Fluttershy, he still had an advantage because of AJ’s condition. They kept glaring at each other without blinking until Applejack’s headache worked its magic which caused her head to start throbbing. She broke focus and started massaging her head with her hooves. And once the pain died down a little bit, she looked back at Spike, who had a smug look on his face. She sighed and gave into his commands, “Fine. Ah’ll sit out for today.” As she slumped onto the bed with her hooves crossed. Spike smiled which made her sit up and she quickly added, “But that don’t mean Ah’m happy.” He smirked, “I know you won’t happy, but at least tomorrow you’re going to be just fine. If you rest that is.” He was reaching for the door handle, but got an idea and looked back towards AJ, “Unless, of course, you want to stay in bed for longer than you have to.” Applejack scoffed as she waved her hoof at him, “Don’t try using reverse psychology with me. You’re better than that, Spike.” The sick country mare sunk into the bed as Spike opened the door only for Rarity to rush inside, almost running over the grown dragon. “Applejack, darling. However did you get yourself sick? I was just talking with you last night! And Spike told me he found you at 10 p.m and you left my room at 9.50! It means you got sick right after you left my room!” Rarity stressed. “Ah’m fine, Rares. Just a minor headache...” She trailed off when she saw the look Spike was giving her, “Okay. A major headache, but ah’ll recover by tomorrow. You just go on to the party.” Rarity looked at her, “Why would I go to the party when you’re sick?” “The nurses in the castle are gonna take care of me, you just go on to that Fancy Pants’ party. Like you said, this is your one chance.” AJ said. She whispered the last sentence so that only Rarity could hear it. She still looked uncertain, “Are you sure? I wouldn’t want to make you feel like I don’t care. And I don’t want to make Spikey-Wikey feel like I don’t care either...” Applejack slightly flinched when Rarity used the pet name she gave Spike, “It’s gonna be fine. Spike and I are going to be fine. Go on to yer lover’s party before yer late.” Rarity lightly blushed when Applejack called Fancy Pants her lover, “If you insist, then I’ll go,” She sighed as she went out of the door, waving, “Well, get well soon, Applejack! Goodbye, Spike!” She ran through the halls to get to her room to get ready. “Good to see you, Photo Finish. The models are just at the back.” Fancy greeted the photographer. “Ah, thank you for the invite. I had been looking forward to this photoshoot for a month now. It will be called ‘The Rarest and Fanciest’.” Photo Finish gestured, “And good to see you too, Fancy Pants.” Rarity was just around the corner of Fancy Pants’ Manor when she heard Photo Finish say ‘The Rarest and Fanciest’. It sounded so much like a combination of her Fancy’s name and her name. She took a deep breath to calm herself. She primmed her mane and started trotting towards the entrance. As soon as Fancy saw Rarity coming, he looked very happy, “Rarity! So glad you could make it.” Fancy offered his hoof and she took it as they both entered. “I’m glad as well. I almost couldn’t make it because my friend got sick...” Rarity said. “Oh? Was your friend alright with you going?” He asked, “I wouldn’t want your friend to feel like he or she wasn’t important to you all because I invited you here.” “O-Oh, yes. She was alright with me going.” She explained, “I was concerned a well at first. But then again, it was just a headache, she’ll be alright.” She finished and their eyes locked together. They stared at each other for a few seconds, neither of them saying anything. After a few more seconds of silence, Fancy broke it by saying, “I say, which friend of yours was the one who got sick, my dear?” “Oh, her name’s Applejack.” “Was she the country girl? She was the most interesting one of your friends when you introduced me to them.” Rarity chuckled, “Well, she may be a hoofful most of the time, but she is a very Interesting friend indeed.” She agreed. “Say we enjoy the party and push aside other thoughts for now?” “Mhm. Of course.” Fancy looked at her, “Rarity, would you like to model some of the dresses for Photo Finish after this? She was really looking forward to doing it when I said that you are going to be here.” “Why of course. It wouldn’t hurt to just model a few dresses.” “Jolly good.” They both enjoyed the party together and Rarity couldn’t help but feel an attraction to Fancy. Not that she was denying it, she would be the luckiest pony in all of Equestria to be able to get together with the most important pony in all of Canterlot. “Alright Wonderbolts, that’s it for today! Everyone hit the showers and we’ll meet up at the Mess Hall for Lunch!” Spitfire dismissed all of the Wonderbolts after their morning practice, “Crash!” She yelled and Dash flinched as she heard her name being called, “I need to speak to you.” Rainbow saluted with her wing, “Yes, ma’am!” Everyone started heading inside except for Dash and Spitfire. Soarin was curious and he decided to hide behind a cloud to hear what Spitfire wanted to talk to Rainbow Dash about. “Dash, you probably want to know why I called you,” She asked, earning a nod from the rainbow maned pegasus, “I wanted to know why you looked so distracted at practice today. It isn’t normal for you to be distracted, you’re normally always so focused when flying.” Rainbow sighed, “Sorry, Spitfire. Just some things going on in my head.” Spitfire lifted a brow, but shrugged it off, “Okay, but don’t let whatever is in your head distract you too much in practice next time. I also have an announcement for later at the Mess Hall, forgot to mention it,” She said, “Let’s hit the showers, Crash. Don’t wanna be late.” Spitfire started walking, but Dash didn’t. So Spitfire added, “Or I can let you clear up your mind. Well, I’ll see you later, Crash.” “Yeah,” Rainbow chuckled weakly, “See you later.” She sighed and let her hind legs give out once she reached the bleachers. She sat down and started thinking about some things. Soarin, who was still behind the cloud decided to step out, “Hey, Crash.” Rainbow looked at him and mustered up the best smile she could, “Hey, Clipper. What are you doing here? Didn’t you go back inside?” “Well, not really,” He admitted, “I was eavesdropping on your conversation with Spitfire.” Dash looked at him, unamused but sighed nonetheless, “If I was feeling like my usual self today, I would’ve totally punched the lights out of you for listening in on me and Spitfire... But since I’m not-” She sighed and regained her cool to not break down in front of him, “I’m fine. Let’s just go hit the showers already.” She said with a slightly annoyed tone. She was about to get up but Soarin held her down, “No.” “What do you mean ‘no’?” She asked while looking at him, confused. “I heard you saying to yourself that you wish you had something to do like your friends did the other day,” He confessed and her eyes went wide, “And I just thought that you could use the company since your friends are busy.” She just stared at him, but she felt herself heating up for some weird reason, “Well, uh- Thanks, I guess...” Her mood changed to a much brighter one than before, “I don’t have anything on my schedule until next week, so I guess I could hang with you after we finish practice.” She smiled. Soarin also felt himself heating up, “Now that’s the Rainbow Dash I know.” She gave out a slightly girly giggle which made Soarin’s blush darker than before, “Race ya to the locker rooms!” “You’re on!” He accepted before they both took off with lightning speed. Pinkie laughed really hard after Cheese made a joke about Boneless two, “Hahahaha! Oh, Cheese. That was hilarious!” She continued to laugh. Cheese laughed along, “It was just another way of me saying ‘thank you’ to you for helping me get my laugh back.” “But that was such a long time ago, 10 months to be exact,” Pinkie clarified, “Why’d you thank me again after such a long time?” “As I said before, it’s because if it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t even be here right now.” He reminded, but no matter how many times he says it, it always warms up both the party planners’ heart. “Aw, Cheese. I was just doing what my heart was telling me,” Pinkie started blushing, “I was born to be a party pony! And so are you!” She hugged him. “I know. But you were the one who helped me realize that making other ponies smile fills our hearts with sunshine.” He winked as he used her phrase. Pinkie giggled, “You love using my phrases, don’t cha?” “I can’t help it. They really make my day.” Pinkie smiled at his words, “But they’re never as good as the real thing.” She raised a brow with a hopeful look on her adorable pink face, “And what is the real thing?” “Boneless two.” He joked. “What?!” “Just kidding. It’s you!” Cheese said. Pinkie and Cheese both laughed, “Cheese, you’re such a crack up. But it’s very sweet of you to think so.” The pink party pony smiled sweetly. “I don’t just think so. I know so.” He added which made Pinkie’s smile grow even wider, “Now, why don’t we go out and get some smiles out of other ponies?” “That sounds super! Let’s go!” And they ran off to find other ponies who needed some cheering up. And after an hour or two, they just finished cheering up another pony. Cheese saw another gloomy pony sitting underneath a tree and decided to take look. But right after Cheese left to go look, Pinkie heard her name being called out, “Pinkie... Pinkie...” “Huh?” Pinkie let out a confused voice, “Who’s there?” She closed her eyes for a second and when she opened them, the whole world turned into a ghost town, “What’s happening? What’s going on?” She asked again as her ears fell, “Cheese? Where are you?” She started moving backwards but her back hit a tree, “If this is a prank, it’s not funny...” She trailed off. She looked left and right, then she heard the voice again, “Pinkie... Pinkie Pie...” Pinkie started whimpering and the voice came again, “Pinkamena Diane Pie...” That did it for her, Pinkie got up from her sitting position and she started running. She ran and ran and ran, not looking where she was going. But she didn’t care as long as she could get away from whatever was making those noises. “Somepony! Anypony! HELP ME!” Pinkie shouted as she ran through the whole village. She looked back and saw nothing chasing her. She was about to come to a stop, but before she could stop or look back to the front, her head hit a giant wooden sign and she fell to the hard, cold stone floor. But before her eyes fully closed into unconsciousness, a flash of darkness slipped into her eyes and made her feel even weaker than she already was. She was stirring on the ground helplessly. She eventually closed her eyes because of the headache she was getting. Another reason she was closing her eyes was because she couldn’t find the strength to open them. But even through her spinning head, she could hear a voice calling out to her. Not like the ones that were whispering into her ears creepily, but this voice was filled with worry. Pinkie felt herself being picked up before she finally passed out. “This picnic you set for us today is wonderful, Fluttershy.” Discord complimented as he took a cucumber sandwich and ate the whole thing in one bite. He used his claw, paw, and tail to grab three more sandwiches and added, “However did you manage to do all this in just a few hours, my dear?” Fluttershy was flattered and she let out a small giggle. She grabbed a cookie and said, “Why thank you, Discord. It was really fun setting this all up. I had a bit of help from my animals though, so I can’t take all the credit for this.” She said as she took a small bite out of her cookie and placed it on her plate. Discord waved his paw after eating the sandwich and stated, “Oh, please. Don’t be so modest, my dear. You were the one who planned this picnic, not your animals. Your animals just did what you told them to do, which was helping you set this up, but you were the one who bought the food, drinks, and all these other things.” He dipped his sandwich in sauce and ate it whole, “So I think it’s safe to say that you can take most of the credit here, dear Fluttershy.” He winked which made the shy pegasus blush. She shook off her blush by looking away for a couple of seconds. While looking away she saw the beauty of the grassland in front of her eyes, she looked back to Discord and said, “Well, in that case, thank you again, Discord.” She sighed and looked towards the grasslands again before saying, “It’s so beautiful...” After saying that, she lied down on the picnic blanket and closed her eyes. Discord was confused by what she meant was beautiful and he decided to ask, “What’s so beautiful? I don’t see what you mean, Fluttershy.” Fluttershy opened her eyes again and looked at him. Then she looked at the grassland again and said, “That grassland,” She pointed at the grassland’s natural beauty, “Is what I was talking about. The natural beauty to it is always just fascinating to see.” She sighed in pleasure and closed her eyes again. Discord stared off into the greenery scene in front of him and then he looked to the beautiful pegasi beside him. Then he looked back to the grassland. He kept staring and he saw a few bunnies, butterflies, and some other animals before turning his attention to the half-slumbering mare beside him. He sighed and then smiled before he whispered, “It’s quite a sight, but it will never be as majestic and angelic as you, Fluttershy.” He looked down to see Fluttershy still sleeping which ensured him that she didn’t hear any of that. He sighed in relief, but in sadness as well because a part of him wanted her to know about his true feelings towards her. He was holding himself back. He just wanted to take her in his arms and hug her and never let go in a million years. Just the sight of her sleeping peacefully was killing him to scoop her up and take her back home. But he held his composure and looked back at the grasslands. Unknown to the chaotic being was that Fluttershy was experiencing something not so peaceful in her nap... Fluttershy giggled as a bunny approached her, “Why hello there, little bunny.” The bunny snuggled into her mane and began sniffing before its eyes widened slightly and it started running in the other direction. The other creatures that were around followed its pursuit. Fluttershy cocked a brow before she slowly only saw darkness. The darkness in her eyes slowly, but surely slipped away before she could hear voices calling her, “Fluttershy... Fluttershy...” The timid pegasus looked around in fright. She started running in the direction that the animals ran towards but her eyelids started feeling really heavy. Her whole body went numb and she fell to the ground in pain. Immobilized, tired, and scared, she could only close her eyes. Her head started to spin and she blacked out. She felt herself being carried and that’s when she found the strength to open her eyes the slightest bit and she saw the picnic she set up right before a blinding light blinded her eyes to close. And she was out again. “Dash! Wake up!” “Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! Wake up!” “Rainbow! Wake up! This isn’t funny!” Rainbow stirred in her dreamless sleep and her eyes fluttered opened much to the relief of Spitfire, Soarin, and Fleetfoot. Rainbow started sitting up, but one head pain caused her to collapse right back to her bed. “Rainbow Dash! You’re awake!” A familiar white-maned pegasus with a lisp hugged her, “Oh, we were getting so worried.” Rainbow’s head stopped spinning and she chuckled, “Thank you? I guess for worrying but... I’m not exactly sure what actually happened to me... Anypony care to explain to me?” Spitfire, who was right beside the door, pushed Soarin to the bed and she cleared her throat and pointed her head towards the rainbow maned pegasus, “Ahem...” Soarin sighed and simply said, “You fainted.” Those two words were enough to make her eyes shrink in shock as she screamed, “What?!” Her face was showing a very shocked expression, as if all the wonderbolts grew a second head, “T-That can’t be possible. I never faint, it just c-can’t be right.” Rainbow Dash started hyperventilating and that is when Spitfire decided to step up, “Rainbow Dash, calm down.” Soarin came up behind Rainbow Dash and began stroking her back affectionately. Spitfire continued, “Everyone faints every now and then for different reasons. You can’t force yourself to always be tough.” She stopped to take a breath and continued again, “Even the toughest of ponies-“ “Or creatures!” Fleetfoot added which made her earn a stern glare from Spitfire. Spitfire rolled her eyes and continued after being cut off, “Even the toughest of ponies or creatures,” She turned to look at Fleet and focused her gaze back at Dash, “Has a breaking point, Dash.” She suddenly added, “Even me.” Which made Rainbow Dash gawk in shock. Dash shook out of the revelation and asked, “Really? You? You’re pulling my leg.” “Believe it or not, it’s true.” Soarin spoke up, “I’ve seen it because I’ve been with Spitfire since the very beginning. I would love to tell you ‘bout it but I don’t think Spitfire will allow me.” “Say one word about it and I might demote you from co-captain to Squad E.” Spitfire said in a very dangerous tone. Soarin gulped and stuttered out, “A-Aye-aye, C-Captain. I w-won’t say a w-word...” “Good. I’m gonna take my leave. If you want to stay and talk with Crash, I’m not gonna stop you, Clipper.” She turned around and left the room to take her leave, “Let’s go, Fleet.” “See ya, Clipper and Crash!” After the two Wonderbolts left, Soarin turned his head to face Dash and he said, “Don’t try and lie to me, Dash. I know you know that you fainted when we were racing to the locker rooms.” Rainbow’s pupils shrunk and she stuttered, “I-I don’t k-know w-what you’re t-talking about.” She looked to the side to avoid making eye contact with him. Soarin grabbed her face and turned it to force her to look at him, “Rainbow Dash, I know you’re lying to me. Just tell me the truth. What happened? What made you faint?” He waited for a reply but all Rainbow was doing was stare at him. Rainbow couldn’t find any words to reply. She was lost in a trance. The way he held her face with concern. It was firm, but it didn’t hurt her. His face was filled with concern and... Compassion? She hadn’t noticed that she wasn’t blinking until her eyes started burning. She blinked a few times and apologized, “I’m sorry.” She sighed, “I’ll tell you about what had happened, but you have to promise not to laugh and not to tell anyone. Pinkie promise!” “Cross my heart and hope to fly,” He paused, “Though I can already fly.” He continued, “Stick a cupcake in my eye.” He gestured as he motioned Rainbow to explain. She sighed, “I admit, it was pretty scary. Now I know it was all in my head, but it felt so real. A voice kept whispering in my ear very creepily...” “Rainbow Dash... Rainbow Dash...” The voice whispered. One second she was racing with Soarin, the next second the whole Wonderbolts HQ turns into an abandoned version of the HQ. Everyone knows Dash as the toughest mare in Equestria, but this scared her to pieces. “Whoever is whispering creepily in my ears, come out and fight me! I’m not afraid of you!” She raised up to her hind legs and got into a battle stance, “Don’t be such a baby! Come out and fight me, wimpy!” A whoosh behind her back made her fall back on all fours and she started backing up until she hit a wall. “Rainbow Dash...” The voice kept whispering again and again. Not saying anything else, “Rainbow Dash... Rainbow Dash...” She kept still, trying to keep up her tough act. But a flash of black in her eyes made her lightly gasp. She felt woozy and fell to the ground with a thump. “And that’s what happened. I don’t even know how it happened...” Rainbow said with confused eyes, “What about from your perspective? What happened while all that was happening in my mind?” “Well, for starters, you weren’t yelling or anything and the HQ wasn’t abandoned. You were just...” He trailed off, trying to find the right words for it. “I was just what?” Rainbow asked impatiently. “You were just standing completely still, that was until you fell to the ground with no explanation...” He finished, making Rainbow confused. She was about to say something until he asked, “How are you feeling now?” “Oh, I’m alright...? I guess? The headache died down.” “Alright. That’s good. I’ll leave you to rest now.” He reached for the door and added, “Bye, Dash.” Rainbow saluted, “See ya, Clipper.” And the door closed, leaving Rainbow to sleep. Twilight sighed, “Well, that went swell.” She said sarcastically, “We couldn’t even find anything that could’ve been causing whatever is happening to the Crystal Heart...” She paused, “It has nothing o do with Sombra, it has nothing to do with being an old crystal, since it’s a relic that’s been here for more than a millennia, and it has nothing to do with any dark magic that we know about...” She groaned in frustration, “What do we do now?” She asked as she, Princess Cadence, and Shining Armor left the meeting room. Twilight was also holding a scroll that had some spells written on it, but they couldn’t figure out what to do with them. Cadence sighed as well, “I guess we can’t really do anything for the Crystal Heart in the time being.” She looked down after finishing her sentence. Shining Armor was also disappointed that they couldn’t figure out what was wrong, but he smiled as he remembered the exciting news that he and Cadence had for Twilight. He whispered something into Cadence’s ear and she perked up and nodded. “Twilight?” Shining Armor spoke up. He got a ‘hmm’ in response to his word. “Remember the exciting news me and Shining Armor had for you?” Cadence asked. Twilight’s ears perked up at the sound of ‘exciting news’, “Yes? What about it?” “Follow me.” Cadence simply said. She led them down the hall. And after a few more minutes of walking in silence, Cadence nudged Twilight to open the door, and when she did... “Surprise!” Flurry Heart yelled once the door opened. Flurry stepped aside to show Twilight the room that was decorated with new baby stuff and a baby cake, much like the one that was made for when Cadence and Shining surprised Twilight about having Flurry. “We’re having another baby!” The couple said. Twilight gasped as she stood still at the door and Cadence and Shining went inside beside Flurry. She shook out of her trance and a large smile appeared on her face, “I’m gonna be an aunt for another little one?” She asked. Shining Armor and Cadence nodded and Twilight jumped into their embrace, “This is the best news ever! I know I’ve said this before when you surprised me at Ponyville, but I’m still very happy and excited for the both of you!” Shining Armor and Cadence laughed at Twilight’s reaction, “We expected you to be excited, but we didn’t expect you to be this excited since we already have Flurry.” Cadence giggled. “It’s just that you pulled this off at the most perfect time possible. I can put all those worries aside for now, I can worry about it later. Right now I’m just,” She stopped for a moment to squeal in excitement, “Very happy for the both of you guys...” She trailed off. A spark appeared in her eyes and she suddenly said, “Wait a minute, that’s it!” Cadence and Shining Armor backed up from the hug, they looked at each other in confusion before Shining asked, “What’s it?” Twilight smiled at them as she held up the scroll, “I think I might know how to fix the Crystal Heart. Come with me.” They started walking but Twilight saw that Flurry didn’t follow, “You too, Flurry.” Flurry gasped in excitement, “Really?” She asked hopefully. “Yes, come on, sweetie.” Twilight giggled as the filly raced towards them. Twilight led them to the Crystal Heart and said, “Cadence, you think you can do this spell?” She showed Cadence a spell which made Cadence cock a brow. “Yes but... it’s a love spell, Twilight. I don’t think this has anything to do with the heart...” Cadence said. “Alone by itself, it may not have anything to do with the heart... But with this spell,” She pointed towards another spell, “I think it can make a difference.” “So you want me to do these two spells together?” She asked. “Oh, no. I want somepony else to do this spell...” Twilight explained. “I can do it.” Shining stepped up. Twilight looked at him, “Oh, I don’t think it’ll work if you do this spell...” “I think it will...” Shining spat back. Twilight sighed, “Fine. If you want to try doing it with Cadence, then go ahead, but I’m telling you it won’t work.” Twilight handed him the scroll and he scoffed, “Ha! This is such a simple spell. This’ll be easy.” “That’s what he thinks.” Twilight muttered under her breath. “Okay, I got the spell. So now what do we do, Twily?” He asked. “Each of you stand on one side of the heart and just use the spell on the heart. It’s that simple.” Twilight clarified. Cadence and Shining took their places and got their magic ready. Cadence opened her wings and did the first beam of magic into the heart. Flurry watched in awe from behind and she asked, “What am I suppose to do, Auntie Twily?” Twilight walked towards her niece and whispered, “The spell your dad is doing, is what you were supposed to do.” “Huh?” She asked in hope and slight fear. “That’s why your dad said the spell was simple.” Her aunt winked. She smiled but then asked, “But if it’s simple, won’t my dad succeed in doing it?” “No, because it’s meant for two specific ponies to do.” Twilight pointed at Cadence and then she used her wing to point at Flurry. Flurry raised a brow in confusion, but then she got the message, “Ohh... Okay.” She winked back. “Here.” Twilight handed the scroll to Flurry for her to read. Twilight giggled and the alicorn went back to watching the couple try to do the spell. Cadence’s beam of magic was finished and Shining Armor started his streak of magic. A blinding light took over everyones’ eyes before it started dying down. After the spell was done, Shining opened his eyes to see the Crystal Heart... looking the same. “The spell didn’t work?” He asked. Cadence rolled her eyes, “I guess you should’ve listened to Twilight, dear. She does know more about this subject than you do, no offense.” She giggled. Shining sighed and said, “Fine. Who is supposed to do this spell, Twily?” “Flurry Heart-” “What?!” Flurry’s parents cried out. “I didn’t finish my sentence.” Twilight stated, “I was going to say that the spell is simple so that Flurry won’t exhaust herself.” Cadence and Shining Armor looked at each other in worry, “Are you sure about this, Twilight?” “Yes. I’m positively sure about this.” She said, “Now, get in position.” Cadence walked back to her original position while Flurry flew down to her position excitedly. Twilight held the scroll in front of Flurry and asked, “You got this, Flurry?” Flurry read the scroll one more time and nodded, “Yes!” Twilight looked at Cadence and nodded. Cadence looked back at Flurry, who looked excited, so she nodded back to Twilight with a smile. She took a deep breath, opened her wing, and she shot the beam towards the heart. Twilight gave a nod to her niece. Flurry nodded back, she took a deep breath and she shot a blinding light of a beam towards the Crystal Heart. Twilight and Shining moved back as the stronger blinding light took over their eyes once more. Cadence and Flurry’s eyes glowed white as they were slightly lifted up to the air. A burst of magic exploded and it illuminated the whole Crystal Empire. The light died down and Flurry and Cadence were brought back down to the ground. Every faces that were near looked towards the Crystal Heart. It was wrapped in a bright light before the light disappeared, showing the Crystal Heart back to its original, beautiful crystal. “It worked.” Twilight murmured. Cadence and Shining walked towards Flurry, “I guess it’s safe to say that Flurry owns the Magic of Light now.” Cadence chuckled. Flurry smiled and hugged her parents with Twilight joining in on the group hug. Flash watched the scene behind a pillar and smiled before going back into the palace. Something that Twilight didn’t know, was that once the Crystal Heart returned to its original state, the migraines that her friends had just disappeared. Another thing is that whatever was giving her friends these headaches, was about to target her and Rarity, but without the power of the Crystal Heart, it doesn’t have enough strength to do so. So it decided to retreat.