The ending that never happened

by poohtter

First published

Twilight shatters knowing her greatest achievements were just a dream.

When reality becomes blurred, and Twilight's mind can't distinguish between the real and the false, she falls into an endless abyss devoid of any meaning for her, especially when she awakens with a broken horn. However, Applejack, in her attempt to pull the unicorn out of this melancholic pit, tries to understand why Twilight woke up asking for wings she never had.

Nightmares

View Online

They said that dreaming was like diving into the most beautiful experience a living being could reach. For many, those dreams were comparable to a heavenly paradise, a place so ethereal that few could touch it. It was an escape, a fleeing from the harsh reality that life bestows upon us. Among ponies, thie love for sleeping was common: some sought to evade their problems, while others longed for the peace that only rest could provide, recharging them with the necessary energy to face their daily tasks. It was thus, for these reasons and many more, that dreaming was woven as one of the most vivid and adventurous experiences in the mind of every pony.

However, like any coin, there was also a flip side. Dreams, with their charm, brought along the shadows of nightmares. In that shadowy dimension of dreams, nightmares turned into painful specters, weaving a tapestry of anguish and fear. Emotions, instead of being gentle currents of joy, transformed into turbulent storms that lashed at the dreamer's inner being. Creatures of the imagination became twisted distortions of the known, manifesting as distorted reflections of the deepest fears. Those grotesque shadows struck forcefully against every glimmer of hope and joy, toppling them like fragile cards in a game whose rules escaped Twilight's control. There was no way to stop the fall of the expectations of a peaceful dream, as each one crumbled like a house of cards struck by a chilly wind. Every hope collapsed, and a poisoned arrow pierced directly through the dreamer's heart, killing every illusion and leaving behind a landscape full of despair.

Many ponies preferred not to delve into dreams, avoiding sleep and anything that would take them away from the terrifying specter of nightmares, unless they were of a mild nature. Terror, for any foal, was the worst imaginable scenario, but the true nightmare did not reside only in fear. The most heart-wrenching part was the knowledge that everything you ever lived and made you happy was merely a fleeting dream. The experience of finding yourself in one place and waking up in another, in a desolate way, is a cruel awakening to reality.

Twilight Sparkle experienced her first taste of this when, in an instant, she was chatting placidly with Flurry Heart near the throne before feeling a burst of light hitting her. Suddenly, without warning, she found herself waking up in the Ponyville hospital. A single thought invaded her mind at that moment: confusion. Her eyes scanned the room, completely perplexed; the same greenish roof with white waves, the sky-blue and striped walls, and even the same curtains surrounding the bed were there. She wasn't hallucinating; it was indeed the Ponyville hospital.

The echo of the relaxed chat with Flurry Heart resonated in her mind, now a disconcerting contrast to the oppressive silence of the hospital. Reality seemed to have twisted, and Twilight clung to the bed sheets, fervently wishing that what she was witnessing was nothing more than a dream within another dream. Confusion overwhelmed her as her eyes scrutinized every detail of the hospital surroundings.

Every aspect of the place that should have been familiar became a strange amalgamation. The green of the roof and the blue of the walls, once simple colors, now took on an unusual intensity. The curtains, which previously only adorned the surroundings, waved like unsettling shadows, letting her know that it wasn't a hallucination. The subtle sound of medical machines, instead of providing comfort, resonated discordantly in her ears.

Twilight, immersed in a sea of confusion, sought answers in every corner of the room. Every element that should have aligned with the known reality now took on strange nuances. The sheets, which normally offered comfort, felt cold and unfamiliar under her hooves.

As her eyes continued to scan the scene, Twilight couldn't help but feel trapped in an enigma. Was this hospital a manifestation of her subconscious, or had she been transported to some unexplored corner of Equestria? The duality between what she knew and what she saw kept her in a state of palpable confusion. Every second in that place resonated with the strangeness of the unknown, and Twilight Sparkle, still clinging to the sheets with longing and fear, faced the paradox of finding the recognizable in an environment that somehow slipped through her hooves.

Nothing, absolutely nothing, seemed to have an explanation. Not even in the extensive books she had devoured throughout her life was there any mention of such an event.

She struggled to regain the thread of logic amid the overwhelming confusion. She tried to remember, to find a glimmer of sense in the strange situation enveloping her, but each attempt only exacerbated the intensity of the pain hammering in her head. It was as if her mind were trapped in a whirlwind of fragmented memories and torn thoughts, all flowing chaotically.

Relentless pain seized her head like a gust of light and sound, reminding her of the brutal impact that left her unconscious. She closed her eyes tightly, hoping in vain that darkness could provide some respite. Each attempt at reasoning was like a stab in her mind, and the dizziness enveloping her was as overwhelming as the chaos around her. In addition to the brain pain, a growing discomfort took hold of her being. A sensation of itching slid across her skin, small needles pricking her with every movement.

In this state of confusion, like lightning illuminating the darkness suddenly, Twilight's mind was invaded by a disturbing question. Where was Flurry Heart? The peace and comfort she had from chatting with her niece moments before vanished into the oppressive silence of the hospital. Instant concern enveloped her, and she opened her eyes, desperately searching for any trace of the princess.

It was at that precise moment that she noticed something that left her body in a state of shock. Her eyes focused intensely on her hooves, resting on the bed; there was nothing unusual about that fact, but there was in the reason that her hooves were practically smaller than she remembered, they seemed the size of an ordinary pony's hooves. With fear, she brought both hooves to her head, and there she discovered another fact that sent a shiver down her spine. She couldn't feel her horn; it was practically not where it should be, she didn't even perceive any bump indicating its presence.

In the midst of the bewildering reality, she was paralyzed by the palpable evidence of the transformation she had undergone. The horn that used to be a skillful instrument for magic now resembled that of any other ordinary pony. The absence of her horn, the very core of her magical identity, became a tangible void, unleashing a wave of panic.

Her gaze roamed the bed, desperately searching for some logical explanation, but she found herself caught in a brief bout of despair. Her hooves descended to the sides of her head, brushing against a bandage that enveloped her completely, causing her to startle. She couldn't contain the clenching of her teeth and the tremors as she also realized the absence of her wings. However, horror reached its peak when she found clues on her own body suggesting that, in reality, she had never had them in the first place.

This had to be a horrible nightmare. Waking up in a hospital bed, in her previous size, and not even being an alicorn, lacked all logic. What was happening? Had someone cast a spell on her?

Unable to control herself, she began to hyperventilate. She felt her heart pounding wildly, resonating to the frenetic beat of a hummingbird's wings. Sweat slid down the tremors of her body, lightly moistening the bandages that enveloped her head.

The mare, in a state of disorientation and bewilderment, desperately sought any hint that would pull her out of this surreal nightmare. Every part of her being screamed in uncertainty as reality crumbled around her. The hospital environment, though familiar, now presented itself as a distorted stage.

The feeling of loss, both of reality and her magical abilities, plunged her into a deep anguish. The bandages on her head seemed to tie her to a truth she couldn't comprehend. How could she reconcile the image she saw with the powerful and majestic image she once was? Helplessness and confusion manifested in her erratic breathing and the sweat testifying to the tension that gripped her.

The rapid beating of her heart echoed like a reverberation of the fading reality, and the unicorn, deprived of her magic and her alicorn essence, found herself in an emotional whirlwind.

"Twi?"

Between the walls, a concerned and familiar voice echoed, causing the lavender mare to startle. Her heart almost stopped from fear at the sudden appearance of that southern accent. Fortunately, as she turned her head, her eyes met only with familiar green pupils, impossible not to recognize. In the moment she met Applejack's warm and worried gaze, Twilight's ears lowered, and for a moment, her nerves quieted as she finally located someone familiar.

"Applejack?" she whispered uncertainly, still blinking in shock at what was happening.

"How're ya feelin', sugarcube?" Applejack asked, approaching the bed and dropping a hoof on her friend's shoulder. "Ya had us more worried than a chicken in a fox's den. The girls didn't get a wink of sleep all night after bringin' ya here. We were scared ya wouldn't wake up. By my granny's apples, ya were in a coma for several days!"

A wave of fear shook Twilight, quickly running through her and shivering her to the core. Her first impulse was to believe she had misinterpreted the words, so she let out a nervous laugh, causing Applejack to raise an eyebrow in total confusion.

"What are you implying with the coma? What accident are you talking about? Are you joking, AJ? I've been cursed!" she exclaimed, raising her hooves in the air, completely baffling the orange mare. "Where are my wings? And my horn? Why am I back to my original size?"

A tremor ran through her body again. The situation was so confusing, and the throbbing pain in her head added another layer of complexity to the problem. Frustration grew as she failed to understand what the heck was happening, and the look Applejack gave her at that moment indicated that the situation was more serious than the unicorn could imagine. The expression on the orange mare's face revealed the confusion of someone who had no idea what she was talking about.

Faced with Applejack's apparent lack of understanding, Twilight felt the uncertainty intensify. It was like being in the middle of a puzzle with scattered pieces, and no one seemed capable of providing a clear picture of what was really happening. Immediately, a shot of anxiety invaded her, filling every corner of her mind, and being fueled by the feeling of not having control over the situation.

Applejack gently shook Twilight's shoulder, her gaze mixing amusement and concern. "What in tarnation are ya babblin' 'bout, Twi? Y'never had wings, and since we met, y'always been this size. Now, 'bout yer horn, well, it's a darn complicated matter, and honestly, I ain't sure if I should spill the beans right away. The doc warned me that yer health is more fragile than a newborn foal, and if I spill the soup now, ya could end up faintin' or worse."

In a deeper confusion, Twilight kept her gaze fixed on Applejack for several seconds, feeling her head spin. "I had them, but... What happened to my horn?"

Applejack's face showed an expression of pity and guilt, wrinkling in a mix of emotions hard to ignore. She brought her free hoof to the back of her head, rubbing her neck. "Somethin' tells me ya don't remember a lick of what happened. And still I'm not sure ya wanna know the details right now, sugarcube."

Twilight closed her eyes for a brief moment and, upon opening them, felt the moisture accumulating in them. Simultaneously, her lip began to tremble, following the rhythm of the tremors that ran through her body. "Tell me what happened, please," she pleaded desperately. She studied Applejack's face for answers, but only found a compassionate look that was starting to unsettle her.

The direction the conversation was taking did not please her.

Applejack nodded, letting out a sigh and lowering both hooves to the ground. A peculiar gleam reflected in her eyes as her ears flattened, revealing the emotional burden she carried.

"Spike came barrelin' down to my farm, nearly splittin' it in two, hollerin' like bull was on his tail. I couldn't make heads or tails of what he was blabberin' about till he let slip you were knee-deep in trouble. Now, I ain't one to dawdle. Not for a heartbeat. I left my apples hangin' in the orchard and high-tailed it straight to the library," she raised her head with a determined gesture, fixing her gaze on the unicorn. The beat of her heart and the tremor in her voice were noticeable like the rattle of a runaway wagon. "When Ah got there, ah found a spectacle that not even Discord in his craziest days could've imagined. Flames everywhere and smoke so thick that not even bees could've found their way back. According to what they told me, ya were experimentin' with a formula from some book, and darn, it turned out worse than a shoe in a tomato crop. Rescuin' you was like tryin' to catch a wild colt, and believe me, with that branch and those burnin' books, it looked like even the apples in my orchard were laughin'. Ah had to make a considerable effort to get you out of there, and when Ah did, Ah rushed you to the hospital. Then, Ah went to get the girls, and when we came back... we were faced with the horn thing."

Twilight Sparkle, with her pupils sparkling like stars on a clear night, nervously swallowed saliva. Her eyes widened more than usual, revealing a mix of anxiety and intense curiosity. "Applejack, I need to know everything," she whispered with a hint of urgency, as if the truth were about to slip away between her hooves.

Applejack, with a touch of anguish in her gaze, scratched her mane, searching for the right words. "Ah shucks, Twi, ya see, the honest truth is that yer horn... well, it done got completely shattered", she said carefully, as if delivering bad news. The air became charged with tension, and her hooves moved nervously on the floor as she struggled to find the right tone. "The doc had no other option 'cept to take it out entirely to keep them infections and big problems at bay", she added sadly. The words came out like sour apples from her mouth, and her gaze met that of the unicorn, whose eyes widened.

Twilight, upon hearing those words, became completely stiff. Her gaze, once filled with eagerness for answers, now showed shock. It seemed as if reality were crumbling before her eyes. Her expression shattered, reflecting the shock of the news. Her breathing became irregular, and a shiver ran down her spine as she realized that her horn was no longer there, that what was once her symbol of power and knowledge had now faded away.

Applejack shook her head slowly.

"I'm mighty sorry, Twi. I reckon I'm feelin' a pang of regret for not havin' arrived in time. If I had just crossed that door a few minutes earlier, maybe y'all wouldn't be in such a dire state right about now." She looked away, guilt reflecting in all her features. "I did everythin' I had in my hooves to save ya."

In a silence filled with confusion, Twilight closed her eyes firmly, as if trying to block the avalanche of confusion enveloping her. Her hooves trembled slightly, and her furrowed forehead showed the intensity of her thoughts. She tried to find logic in the midst of chaos, to find an explanation that would close the cracks open in her reality. Every attempt collided against an invisible wall, leaving her even more lost.

In her distress, she considered the possibility that it was all a dream, but the sharpness of the details and the tactile sensation of her surroundings dismissed that option. The idea of a spell timidly hinted in her mind, but the lack of a clear purpose made her discard it almost immediately. Why would someone cast such a cruel spell on the Monarch of Equestria? Logic twisted in spirals, and the lavander mare found herself trapped in a maze of nightmares with no apparent way out.

The main question in her head was: 'Why?'

Supposedly, according to what her friend was telling her, the unicorn was conducting an experiment that went wrong, resulting in the loss of her horn. However, Twilight could deduce, from the events explained by Applejack, that she herself was never an alicorn. None of her past and present would make sense following that logic. Was she trapped in a parallel dimension? Or did the coma plunge her into a deep dream that made her believe everything she experienced was real?

At such a thought, she tilted her head with a mixture of disbelief and fear. It was impossible. It couldn't be true that all the achievements she had attained, and even the status she thought she had, were nothing more than products of her imagination.

If that were truly the case, then everything she was experiencing at that moment was real.

Twilight, in her static and fearful state, brought a hoof to her head, brushing against the bandage where her horn used to rest, now absent. She opened her eyes. Her mouth opened; a nervous bite clamped down on her lip. The last barrier of composure she held onto fell, tearing like the leaves of her emotional stability. The meager control within her faded away, but she held back a sob as she turned her gaze to the earth pony, who showed total concern, undecided about whether to approach or stay at a distance.

With a titanic effort, Twilight tried to forge a smile, although her attempt not to worry her friend failed. "Applejack..." she uttered timidly, feeling a knot forming in her throat instantly.

The orange mare's face filled with worry, reflecting anguish in her eyes. "What's ailing ya, Twi?"

Under Applejack's inquisitive gaze, Twilight fought against her own overwhelming emotions. Finally, with a choked voice, she posed the question weighing on her heart:

"Could you... could you leave me alone for a moment?" she pleaded, revealing the need to process everything she had just discovered, to immerse herself in that sea of confusion and pain in solitude.

"Ah..." murmured the farmer, her expression reflecting a mix of restlessness and doubt. "Ya sure 'bout that, sugarcube?"

Twilight gave her a melancholic smile. "I'll be fine, Aj. I promise. I just need a moment to process all this, can you leave me alone for a while, please?"

Applejack let out a resigned sigh, her green pupils exuding a deep understanding."All right, Twilight. But if ya need anythin', really, just holler. Ah'll be 'round." Her gaze reflected persistent consideration but also the acceptance that, at that moment, there wasn't much more she could do.

Twilight forced a grateful smile, nodding with heaviness. Every muscle in her face was tense, but she tried to hide the magnitude of her emotions. In response, the farmer nodded understandingly and returned her gaze, showing a flash of concern before leaving the room.

With a soft click, the door closed behind Applejack's departure. Immediately, the unicorn's smile faded. She sat still for a moment, feeling the overwhelming weight of the situation. Finally, she fell heavily to one side of the bed. She closed her eyes tightly, as if she could block out the unanswered questions and the anguish that engulfed her. Her body, once upright with courage, sank into the soft hospital mattress, while her mind was caught in a whirlwind of disturbing thoughts.

She had lost her wings, her horn, and the sense of her own reality. It seemed like a nightmare, similar to those realities created in her confrontation with Starlight Glimmer; however, this was a rather broken and fractured nightmare. Worse yet, it didn't look like a nightmare. It felt real enough, like in those movies she used to watch with her friends, where a pony bites its hoof to try to wake up from the dream but ends up feeling pain and knowing that it's completely awake. That's how she felt at that very moment. No matter how much she tried to make sense, logic, or any other synonym that fit those words, if it wasn't a dream, then she was cursed; but within herself, she felt that it wasn't so.

With the knot still choking her vocal cords, Twilight turned away from the bed. Her eyes burned, struggling to hold back the tears that threatened to escape. She tried to keep her eyelids tightly closed, avoiding facing the reality of the hospital walls around her. Maybe, if she kept them like that for the next few minutes, she could wake up in her true reality and find that everything was just a horrible nightmare.

However, instead of the expected tranquility, reality presented itself more vivid and cruel. A torrent of images and memories, brutal and abrupt, assaulted her with uncontrollable force. The library unfolded in her mind: the book, the Owl Brain spell, the explosion resonating in her ears, Spike screaming, the uncontrolled fire, and the huge branch falling inexorably towards her.

Every detail was a stab in her memory, like a sequence of events playing out with painful precision. Despite her desperate attempt to stay on the sidelines of reality, she was immersed in the brutality of what had happened, unable to escape the cascade of memories dragging her towards a devastating truth.

Suddenly, her chest tightened, and the knot in her throat dissipated, leaving her completely frozen. The tremors in her body ceased, but the pain pierced straight into her heart. Her eyelids wrinkled, and in a shaky movement, they opened. At the same instant, a betraying tear rolled down from her right eye, sliding slowly down her cheek.

Twilight could feel a sharp impact on the left side of her head, and although it hurt, a single thought crossed her mind:

What the hell had she done?

Intuition

View Online

When you enter the world and take your first breath, you immediately feel a cascade of emotions. At birth, like a little foal, you cry in the face of the bewildering reality that surrounds you and the unfamiliar eyes that watch you. You sense that something is not right when you are taken from a familiar environment and placed in a completely unknown one. No one prepares you to integrate into this new setting; they don't even provide you with a map or detailed instructions on how to face the challenges of living. You discover that you belong to a category of ponies, with a name, a family, and a mission to obtain a "cutie mark," a badge symbolizing your supposed talent. There was nothing wrong with this until your childish mind starts questioning everything, even if your future is exclusively tied to a single talent and not multiple possibilities.

It was inevitable to confront these thoughts when you are labeled and told that this is what you're good at, without allowing you to question it; your cutie mark dictates your ability, period. These reflections were never foreign to Applejack, who, since she became aware, questioned everything, especially since that day as a newly arrived foal in the world when she opened her eyes and saw her smiling parents alongside a family celebrating with a feast of apples for her birth.

Learning family rules or the routines of being an Apple was never a problem for her; she loved her work and enjoyed apples, especially cider. Despite this, she always had this feeling that something was wrong in her life. After returning to the farm and earning her Cutie Mark, she set out to rescue the apple harvest and appreciate every moment with her family. There, they told her she had a great talent for harvesting, but it was also in that instant when an intuition arose, a discomfort from which she could never free herself. It was somewhat similar to when her parents passed away, and her father's gift began to weigh on her; wearing the hat when she felt she didn't measure up to her parent. Until his last days, it seemed like she wore that hat more as a reminder than for any other reason. That's when she decided to believe that, with time, those concerns would disappear.

Unfortunately, the following years only intensified that feeling. Interestingly, this became even stronger when she met Twilight and became the element of honesty. Despite her attempts to disguise that perception with a thousand layers of distractions and adventures, the feeling never left her. It was paradoxical to feel this way, being designated as the element of honesty. She didn't need another label imposed on her that nullified any possibility of questioning.

It was as if they traced a straight path for her, indicating that she shouldn't cross it, as it was beyond the limits of her true essence. This reality was bitter for Applejack, who throughout her life sought her identity, longing for one where that unease didn't weigh on her chest. Embodying the honest element with that feeling overwhelming her made her feel like a pig covered in mud; keeping emotions to herself was equivalent to lying. Despite that, she knew she would end up being honest if asked. However, no one did, as they never noticed that something was wrong with her. Another distinctive feature of her personality was her ability to hide concerns like that. After all, it wasn't alarming to her. She always felt a void in her stomach when contemplating the empty corners of the field or her home, but it wasn't something so terrible that prevented her from living, although it persisted there.

Then, the tragedy unfolded.

That morning, she woke up following her usual routine, but she noticed a marked difference: an overwhelming feeling of confusion settled in her throat, squeezing it like a rope tied to a bundle of hay. It was a feeling similar to the one she experienced the night she lost her parents; she woke up with distress that drove her to run down the stairs, only to accidentally learn of her tragic loss. Although that trauma continued to gnaw at her mind at that moment, she got up and tried to dispel that annoying emotion with several sips of apple juice. It seemed to have succeeded when the distress disappeared and allowed her to breathe; however, the intuition returned when Rainbow Dash appeared flying as always, with a new anecdote. She informed her that Twilight was acting strangely, with her mane completely unkempt, and that she had even desperately turned to a fortune-telling Pinkie Pie for advice on the future.

Like an apple falling to the ground, the feeling that something was wrong began to hit her chest with even greater intensity. That attitude was unusual for Twilight Sparkle; while one would expect a pony like her to act with desperation over a spell or something similar, it didn't make sense that she would end up seeking Pinkie Pie for something as strange as what Dash had mentioned. Despite that, she decided to set aside those thoughts and say goodbye to the pegasus to continue with her daily tasks, attributing what was happening to another of the unicorn's many personal investigations. Although she would have preferred it to be that way, the situation became even stranger when Spike arrived shouting half an hour later; his body showed slight traces of burns, and his expression reflected true terror.

It was not necessary to put all the pieces together when she heard the words that her friend was in danger and that a spell had gone wrong. At that moment, everything she did and felt could not be precisely thought; she just remembered that her hooves moved on their own, running straight to the unicorn's home, without caring about the fallen apples she left behind or the small purple dragon chasing her as if it were fruit attacked by hungry parrots.

What happened next echoed like the fateful night she lost her parents, an experience taken from a horror movie. The sight of Twilight's home consumed by flames, like firewood on a winter day, was the most terrifying thing her eyes had witnessed. Rescuing the unicorn turned out to be not an easy task, but neither was it an obstacle; the minor injuries she suffered while removing the huge branch from her friend's body, carrying her, and taking her out of the place on the verge of disintegration didn't bother her at all. The real challenge arose when they reached the hospital, where they practically took her friend away without additional explanations. The doctors' prolonged delay in examining and treating the lavender unicorn generated in her the fear of an unfavorable outcome.

Her friend's body presented severe injuries, although she didn't have the opportunity to observe the extent of the damage carefully. In those minutes, she felt so numb that her mind created an emotional barrier to protect herself from the blows of helplessness that threatened to extinguish her heart. Nevertheless, the feeling that something bad could happen to Twilight strangled her with a suffocating knot around her lungs. Her hooves automatically headed outside the hospital in search of air and her friends, also trying to break free from the white walls that reminded her of an orange filly who had escaped to go to the hospital and ended up seeing two stretchers with the lifeless bodies of her parents.

However, all these events were not even the tip of the iceberg on that day. When she and her completely worried friends hurried back to the hospital, they were given the worst news digestible for their stomachs; Twilight had her horn completely broken, and they had to extract it to prevent future infections due to internal damage. It was impossible to describe the devastating silence that formed among her friends in that brief period, but all of Applejack's attention was only directed at the pang of guilt that began to blossom in her body, cutting her veins and scolding her for the recklessness of not having listened to her intuition when the light blue pegasus had mentioned the unicorn's strange behavior.

The situation became even darker when they received the news that Twilight was in a coma, and there were no coherent studies on when she would regain consciousness. Throughout the two weeks that the unicorn spent in that state, a cloak of uncertainty hung over everyone. Spike, deciding to inform Celestia, preferred to stay at Rarity's house without daring to visit the hospital; all the farmer pony heard was that he found it heartbreaking to see his mentor in that condition. It's not that Applejack couldn't understand the young dragon, as she perfectly understood the terror that hospitals elicited, but the difference was that she couldn't withdraw. She felt the need to stay and make sure her friend was going to be okay.

Despite this, things did not return to normal.

After two weeks in a coma, Twilight woke up, and during visiting hours, Applejack was the first to enter. The scene that presented itself to her was understandable but, at the same time, bewildering; the unicorn was pale and shaky, although strangely calm in the first few minutes. This last part didn't worry the orange mare, but what happened during their conversation generated some concern; her friend started hyperventilating and complaining about the absence of wings she had never had, then returned to a peaceful state and politely asked her to leave her alone for a while.

Her intuition warned her that something was terribly wrong with her friend, and although she wanted to ignore that feeling, she couldn't, especially after all the things that had happened since she woke up with that overwhelming knot in her throat. The first deduction made sense again when, during visits from the others in the group, she heard similar experiences: a pale Twilight asking strange questions and adding wings to the mix of dialogues she released incessantly. Applejack could be stubborn, but she was not lacking in common sense; she understood that those signs were cries of a distressing situation that required her attention and concern.

The days passed quickly, offering more evident signs of the seriousness of the unicorn's condition. Twilight opted for silence, rejected food, and even avoided visits from her friends. The breaking point came with the arrival of Celestia, who, after a brief attempt to intervene, received a clear refusal from the unicorn to continue talking. Although the alicorn princess respected her apprentice's wishes and left the hospital with the intention of returning to Canterlot, Applejack swore she detected a suspicious expression in her. Everything seemed like a scenario that generated more uncertainties than answers. The farmer felt restless and puzzled by the lack of coherence or Twilight's attitude. A week had passed without any indication that things would return to normal.

Lifting her head, unaware of how much time she had remained silent, she was tense, with her front hoof scraping against the cracked ground outside the hospital. Her eyes remained fixed on her group of friends, who were standing in front of her, conversing with consternation about Twilight's condition. She could swear, by her excellent and characteristic Apple ears, that nothing she was hearing sounded like something capable of consoling her storm of emotions.

"I don't understand what's happening to Twilight! How can she just stop talking and refuse help?" exclaimed Rainbow Dash.

Fluttershy, always compassionate, looked at the blue pegasus and added with a soft but concerned voice, "Maybe she's going through something very difficult and doesn't know how to express it."

The pegasus frowned and gestured with her hoof. "Twilight isn't like that. She's always been open about her problems. She's never left us hanging like she's doing now."

"Whatever is bothering her, we need to help her! Let's organize something special to cheer her up!" intervened Pinkie Pie, with her characteristic explosive energy.

"Darling, a celebration might not be what Twilight needs right now," Rarity disagreed and then paused, letting out a sigh laden with sorrow. "We must be sensitive to her feelings. She just lost her horn, her source of power. We all know what magic means to her; it's understandable that she has fallen this way."

Rainbow snorted, her features contracting instantly. "Poor Twi. She must feel horrible. Losing a horn is like if I lost my wings, and, by the grayest clouds, I can't imagine not being able to fly. My wings are the Dash in my Rainbow."

"Perhaps we could try talking to her in a calmer way, without pressuring her. Maybe sharing our own difficult experiences could make her feel less alone," suggested the yellow pegasus in a murmur.

Pinkie Pie, despite the suggestion from the white unicorn, couldn't contain her enthusiasm and insisted, "Come on, girls! A surprise party might be just what she needs! We can fill the room with balloons, cakes, and cheerful music. Twilight will feel better in no time!"

Rarity sighed and placed a reassuring hoof on the pink pony's shoulder. "Dear, I understand your desire to cheer up Twilight, but I think we should approach this delicately. Organizing a party may be overwhelming for her in her current state."

"Speaking of Twilight's current state, doesn't it seem strange that she started insisting she had wings?" asked the blue pegasus, with both eyebrows raised in confusion. Faced with the unexpected question, everyone fell into a doubtful silence and nodded slightly. "I think the coma affected her brain a bit."

"Dash, don't express yourself like that. Our friend is going through a tough time," scolded Fluttershy under her breath, although a brief blush adorned her cheeks.

"I'm sorry, but I've never seen Twilight so... out of it. Did you see Princess Celestia's face when she left the room? Something tells me the talk she had with her didn't go well at all."

With a downcast expression, the elegant unicorn lowered her ears upon hearing that. "I fear it might imply that Twilight will be removed from her position as an apprentice due to the loss of her magical abilities. Although I doubt it was that; I don't think Celestia would decide to address such a critical issue right now."

"I don't think the situation is so drastic," Fluttershy gently reassured. "Maybe Celestia is considering a solution to restore Twilight's magic."

"I'd love to think that's the case, dear, but unfortunately, it's not reality. According to Redheart, Princess Celestia performed a complete magic check, and there were no signs of magic in Twilight. Besides, judging by the princess's expression, there's no way to remedy the situation."

"Oh, girls, this is so sad. Have you wondered if Twilight is feeling all of this inside her? I mean, it's Twilight! Always so focused on magic and friendship. Maybe she needs our support more than ever. And what if we bake a surprise cake to cheer her up? Even without magic, our smiles can spark a little joy in her heart. There's no problem that a good cake can't ease, even if she can't do magic like before!"

Completely incredulous about her friend's excessive optimism, Dash rolled her eyes before looking at the pink pony. "Pinkie, seriously, a cake? You can't just throw a party, bake cupcakes, and expect everything to magically be okay. We're talking about Twilight, the pony who always had a plan and a solution! I'm not saying we shouldn't support her, but we're facing a serious situation here."

Fluttershy lowered her gaze, feeling the tension in the air between her friends. "Well, maybe Pinkie is right that we could do something to cheer up Twilight, but I also understand Rainbow Dash. It's hard to accept that something as important as Twilight's magic has disappeared. I think, perhaps, we could find a balance. Something gentle and comforting, something that makes her feel she's not alone in this. I don't know what we could do, but, uh, maybe we could ask Twilight directly what would make her feel better...?" she whispered, trying to find a peaceful solution.

On the other hand, Rarity, with notable distinction, cleared her throat before intervening. "Darlings, I understand everyone's concern. Of course, we want to help Twilight, but organizing a party or baking a cake might not be the most appropriate solution in this case. I suggest we focus on finding answers and practical solutions to support her. I don't think we should underestimate the seriousness of what's happening. Together, we can find a way to support Twilight in a more substantial manner and in line with the magnitude of the problem. And, of certainly, we can do it with style and elegance to make it a truly meaningful gesture."

At her friend's words, the pink pony, with her eyes sparkling with excitement, started to jump. "Exactly! Rarity is right. We can combine the best of each of us to make something mega fantastic that will make Twilight feel much better. It will be like a super surprise gala but with an extra touch of friendship and support! And you know what? We can make cupcakes with rainbow frosting and decorate them with magical sprinkles to make her smile again! And who knows, maybe she'll find something new that makes her happy even if it's not magic! Come on, girls, let's make the best anti-sadness surprise in Equestria!" she exclaimed, smiling; however, her outburst caused a static expression on her friends' faces.

Dash, upon hearing Pinkie's enthusiastic suggestion, let out a frustrated sigh. With a quick and somewhat abrupt gesture, she brought her hoof to her face, covering her eyes with a tone of evident irritation. "By Celestia, an anti-sadness party?! We already told you this isn't a matter for cakes and decorations. We need to be practical and think of something that really helps her recover, not extravagant parties that just mask the problem!" she shouted, resonating a firm and determined tone as she exaggeratedly raised both hooves upward.

"Oh, I didn't mean to upset you," Pinkie murmured, tilting her head slightly with a guilty expression, finally recognizing the seriousness in her friend's words. "I just wanted to do something special for Twilight, but if you think it's not right, I understand. Maybe we can find another way to help her that we can all agree on. After all, friendship is the most important thing, and I don't want to disturb you, Dashie!"

The blue pegasus observed her friend's expression, and after a sigh, her look of irritation softened. "It's okay, Pinkie, I didn't mean to get so intense. I know you just wanted to help, and I appreciate your enthusiasm. It's just... sometimes, things are more complicated than they seem. Anyway, we all want what's best for Twilight."

"Girls, I'm glad you apologized. However, I think it would be beneficial if we took a moment to calm down. We have diverse opinions, and that's what makes us work so well together. We can find a way that combines our creativity and pragmatism. Rainbow, Pinkie, you both have valid points. Let's take a break, breathe deeply, and then look for solutions," expressed the white unicorn, making a diplomatic gesture and trying to dissipate the tension between the two ponies.

The yellow pegasus, who had remained silent until now, looked up shyly and said:

"I think it's important to remember that Twilight is still our friend, no matter if she has magic or not. Maybe we should talk to her to better understand how she feels and what she really needs in this difficult time."

"I completely agree with Fluttershy," Rarity intervened, elegantly sliding her mane before continuing calmly, "An open conversation with Twilight would provide us valuable information to find the best way to support her. Let's understand her perspective before deciding how to proceed."

"You're right, and there's no pony more straightforward than..." Dash exclaimed firmly. There was a brief pause as she turned to look at Applejack, who had remained silent with her gaze downcast. The blue pegasus's face quickly transformed into an expression of total concern. "What's wrong, Jackie? Why that long face?"

Upon hearing her name mentioned for the first time in her friends' conversation, Applejack remained momentarily still. She had stayed in a sort of trance, unwilling to join for two specific reasons: she had nothing to add, and she didn't feel up to participating. She was still grappling with the feeling that something was wrong and the pang of guilt over the matter of Twilight's horn. However, she gathered enough courage to fix her gaze on the concerned pegasus and, swallowing hard, responded:

"Ah... ah was just ponderin' all of this, sugarcube. Fer weeks now, ah've been wakin' up with a strange feelin', and honestly, ah can't shake the knot in mah stomach. Doesn't it strike y'all as serious that Twilight cast such a dangerous spell just 'cause she saw a charred version of herself warnin' 'bout the future? Ah mean, never in mah sunniest harvest years have ah seen Twi act so rashly, and ah've dealt with some colts more stubborn than a mule in full spring.But now, all this business with Twilight feels worrisome, especially after hearin' her ask such outlandish questions."

The white unicorn, with a thoughtful expression, lifted her right hoof and began to scratch her chin gracefully. "Applejack, dear. It's true that Twilight has been acting unusually lately. Nevertheless, I believe we can help her regain composure. The key is to find the most efficient way to address the situation."

"Oh, right, girls, I forgot to tell you something strange and exciting! When Twilight came to my shop, Madam Pinkie's, she looked super nervous and disheveled. Spike brought her in running, and she had that look of 'I need answers now'! So, imagine my excitement! I could use all my mystical skills to try to help her understand the future," added the pink mare, jumping with enthusiasm as she recalled her friend's unusual visit.

"Yes, I remember. I got quite nervous when she crashed into us and started shouting to everyone that a disaster was looming next Tuesday. However, I didn't give much importance to that detail; my main concern was trying to calm Cerberus," admitted Fluttershy with a subdued tone of guilt and shame. "It seemed like Twilight was just having a stroke of bad luck, but I didn't delve into it since she assured us she would handle it on her own."

"Wait a minute! Did Twilight say she was going to solve it on her own? Seriously?" Rainbow Dash crossed her hooves, frowning with an air of disbelief. "By Celestia, didn't she realize she almost gave us a heart attack with her drama and chaos act? That's not the Twilight I know! Anyway, who cares about a Tuesday? That's like the most boring day of the week!"

In general, Applejack longed to retort against the absurdity that Dash's words sounded when categorizing the days of the week in that way, but she chose to remain silent. Her eyes wandered, seeking any distraction to ignore the conversation and forget, if only for a moment, that Twilight was inside the hospital. At least, she wished to try to loosen the knot tightening her chest, somewhat akin to untying a ribbon in the hay. The sky was adorned with gray clouds gathering, as if the sun bravely fought to remain visible, while a gentle wind tenderly caressed the leaves of the trees, providing additional support to the cloudy cover. She felt the brief chilly breeze delicately hitting her cheeks, and in response, she gently stroked her front hooves. She fervently hoped that the cold wouldn't intensify its advance, aware that she didn't have a scarf to shield herself.

Suddenly, the sound of the hospital doors echoed like an interruption alarm, breaking the atmosphere surrounding the five friends. A white pony with a pink mane appeared near the exit, her hoof leaning against the door, and a relieved expression on her face that contrasted with the gravity of the situation. The group fell silent, looking at Redheart with anticipation, waiting for an answer to her unexpected presence.

"Um, sorry to interrupt, girls," the nurse began hesitantly, letting out a small nervous laugh. "But Dr. Light Beat has decided to discharge Miss Twilight."

The blue pegasus, excited upon hearing the news, extended her wings enthusiastically. "Finally, some good news! See? I told you it would work out!" she declared with obvious triumph. Meanwhile, Pinkie Pie, noticing her friend's reaction, celebrated by throwing confetti into the air, caught up in the eagerness of the moment. On the other hand, Fluttershy let her face light up with a shy smile, subtly revealing her joy.

Rarity, despite being glad for Twilight's improvement, experienced a persistent unease reflected in every gesture. Addressing Redheart with a mix of courtesy and anxiety, she expressed, "Dear, I'm pleased to see Twilight recovering, but I can't help but feel a lingering worry. Are you absolutely sure she's ready to leave? I wouldn't want her to rush if she's not fully recovered."

The nurse nodded understandingly. "I understand your concerns, Miss Rarity, but Dr. Light Beat has carefully assessed her condition and believes she can continue her recovery at home." Redheart paused, looking at the five friends. "However, we need someone to take care of her. She's not yet fit to be alone and needs close monitoring for the next few months to ensure a complete recovery."

Upon the revelation, the ponies' expressions shifted from initial joy to a more serious contemplation. They looked at each other, exchanging knowing glances and absorbing the additional responsibility presented to them. The blue pegasus, after a moment of silence, broke the tension with her typical confident tone:

"Don't worry, Redheart! The great Rainbow Dash will have Twilight back in top shape in no time!"

"Rainbow, dear. Although I appreciate your cooperation, it might not be the best decision. Twilight doesn't have the cloud skills you do."

Dash snorted, acknowledging her oversight. "By the skies, Rarity, I overlooked that detail," she admitted with some frustration.

"I would sacrifice organizing my schedules to take care of her, but I can barely manage Sweetie Belle," added the unicorn with a hint of discouragement, then turned her gaze to the yellow pegasus. "And you, Fluttershy?"

The yellow-winged mare lowered her gaze, feeling embarrassed. "I would love to, girls, but my time is occupied with the little animals that need my attention. I can't fully commit to taking care of Twilight," she confessed in a murmur.

"Oh, girls, I'm really, really, really sorry too!" exclaimed the pink mare this time with an apologetic tone. "I'd love to be Twilight's guardian, but I'm organizing a surprise party for the frogs in Froggy Bottom Pond. It's an amphibious bash I can't miss!"

While the other ponies alternated perplexed glances in response to Pinkie's answer, Applejack continued to observe the situation, her lower lip pressed between her teeth. It was evident that her friends were too tired and agitated to notice that she hadn't spoken a word since the nurse's entry. She couldn't blame them, as she herself hadn't managed to get enough rest for proper functioning or to process what Redheart had mentioned upon her arrival. Her hoof continued to scrape against the floor, an unconscious action reflecting her inability to stay calm on this occasion. Unlike the reputation the girls had of her personality, she couldn't maintain her peace for long, and in those seconds, her body wasn't responding correctly. She was exhausted, worried, scared, and the knot in her chest wasn't helping. Her head was a shake of rotten apples. Still, the only thing she could think about was how Twilight would feel about the painful daggers thrown in just a few days. Her friend had lost the only thing that inspired her, what defined the cutie mark of her identity, or the supposed talent that all ponies say defines you.

Once again, a bitter taste filled her mouth as she immersed herself in this dilemma that had accompanied her since fillyhood. She shook her head; she didn't need another internal conflict. She reflected once again on what was happening and, guided by the feelings of guilt and pain for her friend's suffering, took a short breath before letting out those simple words:

"Ah'll do it."

The silence and skeptical looks now directed at her were the last things Applejack expected to receive; however, she kept her body steady and her hat held high, trying to convey enough confidence to show that she was serious; even though deep down, she wished to feel that way.

"Hey, are you sure, AJ?" The blue pegasus was the first to break the silence, frowning as she brought a hoof to her neck. Her eyes scrutinized Applejack with some concern. "I'm not trying to undermine you, really, but every time I swing by your place, I find you deep into some business on your family's farm."

The earth pony shrugged with a calm expression. "I can organize myself right well and manage my time. Takin' care of Twi won't mess up my schedule, ya'll see."

"Are you absolutely sure, dear?" Rarity's eyes began to scan Applejack doubtfully. "Not to offend you, but you're not exactly one of those ponies who seem to have the necessary time for these types of responsibilities."

"Ah, honestly, Ah ain't a hundred percent sure, but Ah can assure ya that Ah can take care of Twi." The earth pony chuckled softly under her breath, shaking her head slowly. "Well, sugarcube, besides, ah owe her a whole heap for all she's done for me. And it won't be no trouble at all; ah used to look after Applebloom when she got herself hurt. So, ah'm used to it, ya know?"

"Um, Rarity, if she feels comfortable doing it, I... I think it's okay with me," Fluttershy murmured softly, looking away as she played with a strand of her hair. "I mean, it could be a good help for Twilight; she really trusts Applejack..."

"Oh, yes! I completely agree with Fluttershy! It's a great idea! If Applejack is okay with it, go for it!" Pinkie exclaimed energetically, wearing a wide smile from ear to ear.

"Ugh, fine. If everyone is on board and Applejack feels up to it, then I suppose I have no objections," Rarity sighed with a hint of resignation, though trying to maintain her elegance. "I just hope Twilight appreciates the effort we're putting into this."

"Alright, I'm glad you've reached a decision. It seems everyone is in agreement," Redheart mentioned in a professional tone. She then gave a serious but understanding look to the orange pony. "Before you start with your duties, Miss Applejack, I would need you to accompany me to sign some paperwork. It'll only take a moment, and then you can take care of Miss Twilight."

"Well, alrighty then. If that's what y'all want, reckon we can go ahead with the paperwork," said Applejack in her typical calm tone. Following that, with a more concerned expression, she added, "But, may Ah ask how Twilight is doin' right now? Ah just wanna make sure everythin' is in order."

"Miss Twilight is in stable health in medical terms, but still shows signs of emotional decline," Redheart reported solemnly. "We are working to provide her with the necessary support. If you can take care of her and ensure she feels accompanied, it will be of great help. Now, if you accompany me to sign those papers, you can take her with you."

Applejack fell into another deep silence. As Redheart made her way towards the hospital entrance, the farmer diverted her gaze towards her friends. A nod from them was the response she needed to encourage her to continue. There was no need for further waiting or confirmation; she simply turned around, tipped her hat slightly, and set out to follow the pony nurse. There were no imminent threats, let alone reasons to adopt a mourning attitude in those seconds. She was supposed to feel at ease now that the worst was over; nonetheless, she began to feel a lingering bittersweet sensation growing in her heart. She desperately tried to maintain control, but the tightness in her chest intensified, as if that darn invisible knot was tightening more firmly around her lungs. For a brief moment, the circulation of oxygen was disrupted, and in that instant, the painful truth revealed itself with undeniable clarity: things genuinely would not return to how they were before. Because, over the years, she had learned that, no matter how hard she tried to ignore it, her intuition never failed.

Negation

View Online

The negation, a subtle shadow gliding through the depths of the mind, was an act of resistance against the reality that surrounded them. It was the barricade erected by the soul to shield itself from uncomfortable truths, a dance between illusion and truth. Although often seen as an evasion strategy, negation could also be a temporary balm that cushioned the impact of harsh reality. However, this act of self-protection came at a cost: the distancing from authenticity and complicity with self-imposed lies. But, like waves crashing against the shore, negation eventually faded away, leaving behind fragments of shining truth that demanded recognition. It was a game of mirrors in which the mind, fearful of what it might uncover, chose to close its eyes to unwanted signs and realities.

Twilight chose to follow the same path. For her, closing her eyelids and plunging into darkness was preferable to facing the reality unfolding before her eyes. It was the first time in her intense life that she found herself without answers, unable to explain an event that, to her sharp intellect, completely lacked sense. She lost track of how many hours she spent engaged in recalling every book on realities and alternate worlds she had ever read, only to discover in the end that none offered a clue or explanation for what she was experiencing.

The tangle of memories that struck her upon her initial awakening was like gaps unknown to her memory. Thinking about it induced the worst headache any pony had ever felt. Nevertheless, when she managed to calm down, those flashes offered her a small hint that she was reliving a moment she remembered perfectly; however, the reality unfolding was completely different from what she believed had happened.

She remembered that old fragment with precision; on that day, she had forgotten to adhere to her sleep schedule to complete the drafting of her timetables. At that point in time, a disheveled and hurt version of herself emerged out of nowhere to warn her about an incident that would take place on a Tuesday. She always felt embarrassed recalling that event, as it turned out to be a mix-up between file searches and the vertigo of going crazy, only to discover that, in reality, there was no disaster.

The experience should have concluded in that way, but the new memories she now possessed completely disrupted that assumption. In them, she had stumbled upon a book of forbidden spells, one that promised glimpses into the future. Consumed by anxiety about what would happen the next Tuesday, she attempted to perform the spell, triggering a serious accident that nearly cost her life. It was a hard fact to digest, a truth that tied a knot in her stomach and defied all logic. That accident couldn't have led to a coma state making her believe she had lived an entirely different life, full of improbable events. So, the idea emerged in her that she was immersed in a false reality, created by someone with the intention of making her suffer. She began to suspect that her surroundings and all the ponies around her were mere replicas, distortions of what she once knew. Her initial instinct was to distrust, even going so far as to avoid eating for fear that something harmful had been added to her food.

But, days later, that choice ended up making her feel ridiculous. Reality was surprisingly vivid, and she found no anomalies; in fact, the days and months before the failed spell incident continued according to her old memories. In her "present," she didn't identify anyone with the ability to weave such a convincing reality, and thus her theories were dismissed. In that moment, she deeply regretted saying four foolish words when Princess Celestia visited her. She had the perfect opportunity to inquire more about what was happening, but she chose to ask the princess to leave her alone, as she didn't want to engage in conversation with anyone.

Her eyelids contracted for a second, as if her brain were throwing sarcastic words at her lack of cleverness in missing such an opportunity. It was ironic, considering she always boasted about thinking before acting, or at least trying her best. However, in that chaotic disorder, her mind was so deteriorated and confused that it was difficult for her to reflect thoroughly on each of her actions. Anyone spending several days with only four walls as reliable company would end up losing their sanity; even she was amazed at having retained some semblance of sanity throughout the time she was in the hospital room, facing chaotic and inexplicable events. Although she knew that more than sanity, what kept her going was a mixture of fear and curiosity.

As her body sank again onto the soft hospital mattress, she couldn't help but notice that fear was the only force that had confined every corner of her body and mind in the past few days. Despite the persistent migraine pounding her head like drills, nothing compared to the feeling of being lost and alone at that precise moment. A brief wave of emptiness flooded her chest as she recalled it; unconsciously, she pulled her hooves from under the sheets and placed them on herself, still feeling cold for some reason.

She had never experienced this feeling before, or perhaps, she had too many distractions in her life that prevented her from noticing it. She never stopped to think about what would happen if she had no one to trust, if she ever found herself alone with nothing and no certainty of receiving a genuine hug. She never considered that possibility because she had everything: friends, family, books, purposes, knowledge, commitment, and responsibilities. That was her true reality, one that did not require questioning. However, here she was, waking up and discovering that everything she ever believed to be real seemed to be just a dream, a product of her recklessness with a spell that plunged her into a coma.

Accepting that truth was like watching her most beloved books burn. It meant ceasing to be Twilight Sparkle to become a pathetic and neglected pony, covered in bandages, a unicorn without a horn and without magic. Contemplating this thought, her body shuddered, and her teeth clenched tightly around her lower lip, already bruised from the times she had bitten it while ignoring such a fact. She resisted accepting it. It couldn't be real. She couldn't have lost her magic or her horn, let alone find herself in a hospital with heartbreaking memories of such irresponsibility. It was unheard of, illogical, and absurd to think about. She couldn't have lost the one thing that defined her essence, the fundamental part of her life, and what connected her to her true self. Who was Twilight without magic? How could she be the connection to harmony if there were no magical traces in her?

No, definitely not. Twilight couldn't believe in such quick deductions. Perhaps, just maybe, someone had been lurking in the shadows all this time, planning to make her suffer and teleport her into a false reality, one that felt eerily real. Yes, that must be the true reason behind all this madness; otherwise, she would prefer to sleep for several more hours to avoid facing the miserable walls and curtains so inert in the hospital that caused her an intimidating sinking feeling.

She needed to find a way to escape the hospital and get answers to all this. The idea of going to Canterlot to talk to Celestia lingered in her mind, but she couldn't prevent her teeth from yielding to pressure, releasing her lower lip. It trembled, marked by nervous imprints, and she could feel the sharp pain in each mark left by her teeth, a tangible manifestation of the anxiety overwhelming her. The urgency to find answers intertwined with the palpable fear that made her hesitate.

A soft click echoed in the room, abruptly interrupting her thoughts. The creak of the door sliding across the hard floor tensed her entire body, every strand of her hair standing on end. Almost instinctively, her eyelids opened, allowing her eyes to once again meet the presence of the wall, unable to direct her gaze toward the door.

"Twi?"

The southern accent permeated the atmosphere, causing the unicorn's muscles to relax. Despite this, a part of herself resisted allowing her head to turn, perhaps because she had not yet grown accustomed to conversing with what she felt were exact reproductions of her true friends.

The brief silence, instead of bringing the solitude the unicorn expected, ended up being interrupted by the rhythmic sound of trotting. Each step resonated in the air, disrupting the stillness and marking a presence that challenged her sought-after tranquility. With the echo of the trot still reverberating, Applejack's voice emerged again in the scene, but this time tinged with a nuance of consideration.

"Ah reckon ya might not be in the mood for a good ol' chat or hangin' 'round folks right now. Ah understand that, but we're plum worried 'bout ya. Ya been actin' kinda peculiar lately, sugarcube." The farmer's voice, recognizable by her distinctive modulation, abruptly stopped, revealing a hesitation that puzzled her friend. "Well, I reckon I gotta let ya know that you've been discharged, and they let me be the one to look after ya. So, whatever's goin' on in that head of yours, you don't have to tackle it solo. But I need ya to say somethin', anything really, so it doesn't feel like a hitch in our understanding."

Twilight remained silent, carefully processing and analyzing the words. Her ears stood erect, picking up the soft and decipherable murmurs of the mare. Throughout her life, she had never employed the cold shoulder, as she was not that kind of disrespectful pony. However, unease overtook her as she realized her theory of clones was starting to crumble. The orange mare sounded surprisingly similar to the Applejack she knew, even felt familiar; in fact, she could sense a pleasant atmosphere solely with her presence. That unique feeling that only the real Applejack could evoke was impossible to replicate. Nervous at this revelation, she felt a heavy weight crushing her stomach, causing a slight dizziness to add to the persistent headache.

Feeling the intense gaze of the farmer did nothing to help her mental crisis. Immediately, a strong need to get up and draw the curtain to avoid being observed surged within her; however, she maintained composure and crossed both front hooves, attempting in vain to provide her own comfort. Aware that sooner or later, she had to face the situation, she understood that staying curled up in bed and ignoring the visits would not resolve anything amid this strange madness. She needed to find a coherent answer that wouldn't plunge her back into hyperventilation.

With the little strength left in her, she turned her head and met a penetrating green gaze. Unable to explain what she was experiencing, she could perceive how the air around her became dense as she meticulously examined the earth pony; her green pupils reflected fatigue and concern, while dark circles were evident under her eyes, and a few barely visible scratches decorated her loin. At that precise moment, all reflection and fear vanished from her mind; however, a moral slap hit her like a stab as she remembered that she had overlooked a crucial detail: this Applejack was the one who risked herself to rescue her in the midst of the fire. An intense wave of shame engulfed her, evident in the subtle blush on both of her cheeks. She couldn't afford to act ungrateful, even without being sure if this was the authentic Applejack.

Maintaining her gaze on the farmer, Twilight swallowed with difficulty, eliminating any trace of doubt. Then, she cleared her throat weakly and allowed her lips to move to speak:

"There's no need to worry, AJ," she began, taking a brief pause to carefully choose her words, avoiding revealing the full complexity of her thoughts. The expectant look from her supposed friend seemed to invite her to continue, so, after analyzing her response in more detail, she went on. "I'm just... you know, trying to process all of this. I didn't want to talk to you all because I tend to appear very neglectful when I'm in my low moments, so I just needed some time to reflect, nothing more. As for the other thing, I have no issue at all; on the contrary, I'm grateful to know it's you offering to take care of me. I wouldn't find another pony who gives me the same sense of security that you achieve."

Despite the sincerity in her response, Twilight felt uneasy about the lack of emotional richness in her words. Not that she could complain. The scenario she was in still felt unreal to her, even though it seemed so real that her common sense scolded her for not accepting it. Therefore, it was better to be cautious and avoid upsetting others' emotions. When several agonizing minutes passed, and a gentle smile formed on Applejack's lips, it was a signal of relief for her, who was still struggling to control her nerves.

"Well shoot, Twi! Ya don't gotta be all sentimental and soft like applesauce," exclaimed the orange mare with a genuine smile, relaxing and adopting a posture that marked a stark contrast with the concerned expression she had shown earlier. "Knowin' that ya trust me that way makes me feel honored. Ah'm here for ya, always. 'Bout yer low moments, we all have 'em. We ain't perfect, but that don't make us any less valuable to our friends. Ah understand that everyone deals with things in their own way. Ah've always believed that we're here to support each other, even when things get tough. Even though ya lost yer horn and magic, yer still the same Twilight Sparkle to us."

The tremor in Twilight's lip was visible, though she tried to conceal it behind a half-smile. She felt a growing unease as she increasingly sensed the authentic essence of Applejack in that mare. "I..." she hesitated, struggling to avoid any hint of stuttering as her words sought the right path. "I wanted to thank you."

The orange mare remained watching her, a faint glimmer of confusion appearing in her eyes. "What in tarnation are ya thankin' me for, sugarcube?" she asked candidly, trying to understand what was going through her friend's mind. Her eyebrows furrowed slightly, and her relaxed posture now showed hints of genuine concern. "Ah ain't exactly reckonin' what yer gettin' at. Did Ah overlook somethin'?"

Twilight shook her head. "No. I just wanted to thank you for rescuing me. I've been very unfair to you in these past few days. I shouldn't have ignored you when you risked your life to save me from a fire I caused myself," she admitted with regret in her voice, as her gaze shifted slightly, revealing a hint of remorse.

Applejack, upon hearing the words, lowered her gaze for a moment, taking in the sincerity of the unicorn. Then, she brought one of her hoofs to her hat, tilting it a bit on her forehead, while a friendly smile illuminated her face.

"Twilight, ya don't gotta go 'round thankin' or dancin' 'round the issue. Ain't no need to be so tough on yerself. We're here to back each other up, ya hear?" she said with reassuring warmth. Lowering her hat, she showed a compassionate expression. "Ya see, sometimes things jest slip through our hooves, but that don't change what really matters: that we're here for our friends when they need us. Ah know that when the sun sets and the day winds down, you'd do the same for me."

Like a restless worm, Twilight shifted uncomfortably in her place. Unable to find a position that brought her comfort, she allowed her body to rise from the bed until she ended up sitting. The familiarity emanating from this Applejack plunged her into a sensation that she found difficult to handle.

"You're right, Aj. Very right," she responded, letting out a nervous laugh before clumsily meeting the gaze of the earth pony. "If it's not too much trouble to interrupt you, I'd like to know when we're leaving. This place gives me the creeps," she expressed. She wasn't entirely wrong; spending too much time in the hospital was affecting her sanity, and she truly longed to get out of that site.

The gaze she received from her supposed friend was like an emotional scanner, making it challenging for Twilight to stay calm. The farmer approached with a short and calm trot; her eyes retained that friendly gleam that had always characterized Applejack, a detail that couldn't dispel the unicorn's unease.

"Sugarcube, don't you worry none. Ah understand ya wanna skedaddle from here." she said with a gentle voice, delicately placing a hoof on her friend's shoulder as a gesture of support. In response, the downcast Sparkle let out a faint sigh. "We're headin' out now. Just hold yer pigs for a sec. Ah'll fetch a couple o' things and come back 'round to pick ya up, ya hear?" she said, without waiting for a response, spun around, heading towards the door. Before leaving, she exchanged a conspiratorial glance with Twilight. "But don'tcha worry, Ah'll be back in a jiffy. And when Ah mosey on back, we'll get outta this here dump at Apple speed. Y'all'll see!"

In spite of her attempts to formulate a response or at least react, Twilight remained motionless until the figure of the orange mare faded behind the door. A welcoming silence filled the space for several minutes, and at that moment, she wished for a book on relaxation techniques, feeling that her emotions were intensifying. Finally, she decided to sink back onto the bed; the impact of her back against the soft mattress caused slight discomfort, which she chose to ignore. Her eyes remained fixed on the wall, although she didn't really see anything. The tsunami of uncertainty collapsing her mind prevented her from staying grounded. She considered that perhaps in the upcoming events, she would find answers and it would be easier to control her reality crisis.

Although she had expectations, Applejack's return did not provide the calmness Twilight hoped for. Instead of being greeted with the desired comfort, Twilight found herself wrapped in a blanket as she was uncomfortably escorted out of the hospital. The sensation of the blanket was not comforting but rather a tangible reminder of her situation. The long and silent journey to Sweet Apple Acres only intensified this discomfort. Not only was she facing the physical challenge of recovery, but she also dealt with the emotional discomfort of being handled with extreme care, as if she were fragile and brittle. This perception did not align with her own inner strength, and the overly cautious treatment was unpleasant.

However, none of these feelings reached the intensity of the disturbing sensation that filtered through her spine as her eyes began to explore the surrounding landscape. From the heart of Ponyville, with its vibrant and varied Central Square, to the road leading to Sweet Apple Acres, every quaint shop, colorful house, and iconic location were perfectly intact. Not a single detail was missing; everything resonated with an almost eerie familiarity. This was the pure essence of Ponyville, a vivid reproduction of her memories. She couldn't find any point of failure in the representation, but that certainty didn't eliminate the slight shiver running through her body. Despite the temptation to succumb to restlessness, she held back the force and allowed her hooves to move forward, although the contact with the ground did not provide the desired reassurance. Her silence persisted throughout the journey, even in the face of Applejack's intense gaze and the fear echoing in her gut.

Finally, after a wait that extended beyond what Twilight would have wished for, they arrived at Sweet Apple Acres. Anxiety surged in her throat like an uncomfortable mass, and she struggled to swallow the knot of nerves closing her pharynx. The farm manifested before her with unsettling clarity; every detail, from the majestic apple trees to the penetrating smell of fresh earth, came to life before her eyes. A disturbing sense of realism took hold of her, choking her dwindling sanity. Her trots through the estate were an unsteady dance, the constant and irregular beat of her heart threatening to make her lose her composure, plunging her into a kind of emotional turmoil.

Upon reaching the door of the Apple family's home, Applejack carefully placed a hoof on her disoriented friend's back, a gesture that immediately tensed the muscles of the latter. The cold surface of the farmer's hoof clashed against Twilight's fur, who, despite being covered with a blanket, experienced another shiver that raced swiftly down her spine.

"Sugar cube, take it easy now. We done made it safe and sound to Sweet Apple Acres. Ain't no need to be chewin' on them lips like that; I reckon from my own experience that it don't do much for easin' worries. Let me handle things 'round here. You're in good hooves."

Upon hearing those words, Twilight's features tightened, and her nose wrinkled in a gesture of confusion. The revelation that she was biting her lips caught her off guard; in the sway of emotions, she didn't even know when her teeth sank into her lips. As she slowly released the pressure from her lower lip, she looked up at Applejack's understanding expression. Somehow, she struggled to accept that this pony, with her solid presence, could convey security amid her own turbulence.

A faint and gentle smile appeared on Twilight's lips, a fragile yet genuine response to the offered understanding. Gathering the strength she needed, she whispered, "Can we go inside?"

"Shucks, Twi! Ain't no need to be in such a dern hurry," Applejack said with a laugh, placing her hoof carefully on the door before pressing the thin wood, causing it to open with a soft creak. "Git on in. Today was the Apple family's day off; Ah reckon everyone's snoozin' like bears in hibernation."

"Well... thanks for the information, I guess," sighed Twilight as the earth pony entered the rustic dwelling. A subtle shiver accompanied her exhale. Unease persisted in her chest as she felt this mare could be the real Applejack. Slowly shaking her head, she tried to dispel that intrusive thought. Even if the world were falling apart around her, she couldn't afford to lose the last anchor keeping her sane. She moved toward the doorway, each step feeling like a dance on hot coals. Despite the pain reverberating through her body, she chose to silence the complaints. Comfort remained elusive in the midst of the strange situation.

"Ya gotta watch yer step, sugarcube. Don't go gallopin' too quick."

There was a hint of sweetness and trust in Applejack's voice that urged Twilight to moderate the pace of her trot as she entered the house. Immediately, Twilight's ears flattened, barely grazing the bandage wrapped around her head. If the scent of apples and wood was faintly perceptible before, it now overflowed with intensity, completely filling her nostrils. A slight irritation brushed her lashes as her eyes began to explore every corner of Applejack's home; the walls, photos, sturdy furniture, and decorations. The place emanated a warm glow, illuminated by the soft moonlight filtered through red curtains adorned with checkered patterns. Solid wooden furniture and rustic details were arranged with order and purpose, with paintings and farm tools hanging proudly on the cream-colored, worn walls. While the round orange-toned carpet where Applejack stood seemed to capture attention, the staircase on the left gained importance, extending upward correctly.

While Twilight was familiar with Applejack's house, she had never stopped to observe the details closely. However, at that moment, she couldn't help but recognize how the essence of the farm and apples, so characteristic of the orange mare, permeated every corner of the place. Unconsciously, her hooves moved toward the kitchen, causing a soft creak of the wood beneath her. It was not surprising that most ponies described Sweet Apple Acres as a familiar and welcoming space. Even she was beginning to feel the sweet atmosphere of peace that only the Apple family's home could offer, making her forget the concerns that had haunted her earlier, if only for a few brief minutes.

"Take a seat, Twi. Ah'm gonna rustle up somethin' for ya to munch on," echoed Applejack's determined voice, accompanied by the characteristic drag of a chair against the floor.

Twilight halted her exploration of the books near the countertop and shot a quick glance at the orange mare, blinking at the suggestion. Two seconds were enough for an expression of indifference to form on her face. "I'm not hungry, but thanks anyway."

Applejack furrowed her brow, leaning against the countertop with her legs crossed. "Twilight, don't go feedin' me that malarkey. Ah know you've been cooped up in that hospital for days on end, neglectin' yer stomach like a critter in a dry pasture. Ya gotta fill up that belly and get yer strength back."

The unicorn sighed, vulnerable. "I haven't had much of an appetite lately. I've been worried about several things."

"Sugarcube, ah reckon ah get that ya been through some rough patches, but that don't mean ya gotta go ignorin' yer health. Ya gotta put some vittles in yer belly, ya hear?" insisted Applejack, turning to open the cupboard above her, ready to take out the materials and ingredients needed for cooking.

Biting the inside of her cheek, Twilight hesitated. She couldn't find the will to eat; hunger had faded since she woke up to face her new reality. "I appreciate it, Applejack, but I'm just not hungry. I'm fine."

Applejack, with a hint of barely noticeable frustration, turned her head toward Twilight, still with her hoof in the cupboard. "Twilight Sparkle," she uttered in a firm tone that made her friend shudder. "I tell ya straight. Ya ain't been eatin' right, and that's a fact. Ah'm fixin' ya somethin' light, but ya gotta put somethin' in that belly of yours. Ain't no room for arguin' 'round. So come on, plop yourself down, and wait for the vittles to be ready."

An intense warmth invaded Twilight's cheeks, tinting them with a vibrant crimson hue. Although she felt a strong inclination to protest, especially being treated like a newborn foal throwing a tantrum, she decided to hold back her lips and let it slide. Despite having the right to complain after everything she had experienced in such a short time, she knew it wasn't the right moment to make a scene. Applejack seemed determined to achieve her goal, and she didn't have the energy to prolong the discussion. Without much thought, she tried to suppress her emotions and made her way to the table, ignoring the slight pain in her hooves. Midway, the blanket wrapped around her slid down slowly, but she didn't pay much attention to it. While Applejack returned to the cooking task, the unicorn managed to sit awkwardly in the first chair she found, maintaining a prudent distance from the farmer.

"Applejack? Ya back? Heard some ruckus comin' from 'round these parts."

In an unexpected echo, a deep and masculine voice filled the room, catching both mares by surprise. Twilight, lost in her thoughts, jolted instantly. The unexpected sound resonated within her, and her eyes widened. The blanket that enveloped her, a silent witness to her attempt to contain her emotions, slid from the top of her hooves down to the floor. Surprise reflected in her pupils as, guided by a sudden instinct, she turned her head, facing the source of that new Southern tone. There, near the stairs, stood a tall red stallion, with a disheveled mane and a weary expression that revealed his recent rest. Big Macintosh's sudden appearance triggered another uncomfortable wave in Twilight, who, swallowing hard, lowered her gaze to the ground. Surprises were piling up, and her fatigued mind couldn't handle more elements in her quest for answers.

Applejack directed her gaze to her brother with a friendly smile, releasing a warm laugh. "Ah just got back a few minutes ago, Big Mac. Twi's gonna stay here 'til she can fully recover," she said with assurance, hoping to dispel any concerns that might cross her brother's mind. "Well, Ah sure hope that's mighty fine with ya. We just wanna make dang sure she gets back on her hooves all the way."

"No problem, AJ. Ah'm okay with it."" Big Macintosh replied in a calm tone. Then, his eyes, filled with curiosity, focused on the tense unicorn, who shrank slightly under the gaze. "I hope ya feel comfy and can bounce back soon, Miss Sparkle. Mah sister's a stubborn one, but she's got good intentions." he added, revealing a mix of humor and support in his voice.

Immediately, Twilight's eyelids tightened, although her head remained lowered. Nevertheless, she managed a half-smile. "Thanks, I'll keep that in mind," she murmured, releasing a nervous laugh afterward. The irony of feeling anything but comfortable made that laughter more for herself than a response to the present nerves.

"Well now, Big Mac, ya gotta excuse Twilight's silence. After all that hullabaloo, she's plum worn out. Exhaustion's got her actin' all shy, like Fluttershy in the middle of a lightning storm." Applejack let out a friendly laugh, trying to lighten the mood with her characteristic playful touch.

The stallion looked at his sister and chuckled, his laugh deep but with a slight touch of humor. "Eeyup. Ah may not talk much, but Ah can recognize when someone's more worn out than a tractor in harvest season."

Both of Twilight's eyebrows raised as her face took on an offended and incredulous expression. She longed to respond with the irritation that invaded her for not understanding the wordplay with a rural twist, but she restrained herself. The comparison with Fluttershy took her by surprise; the pegasus was entirely the opposite of her. She imagined Fluttershy in her place, facing the madness she had experienced upon waking up, and a faint smile escaped her at the thought of the shy pegasus hiding in her pink mane. Interestingly, she found it somewhat pleasant to witness the conversational dynamic between the two siblings. It wasn't a new detail, but it was something she had stopped witnessing since ascending to the throne. Nostalgia flattened her ears as she reflected on the moments that had faded from her routine or simply been lost in occupying the position of monarch. Although she didn't know if these ponies were the same ones she knew or if this reality was genuine, she couldn't help but feel a longing for those little details.

Letting out a yawn, Big Macintosh stretched slightly before commenting, "Speak'n of busted tractors, I'm plum tuckered out. Reckon it's time to hit the hay. Wishin' ya a good night." With a nod in farewell, he turned around and started ascending the stairs, marking the end of his participation in the conversation.

Applejack, busy placing toast on a plate, replied, "Rest, Big Mac."

The red stallion disappeared from the scene, but that didn't calm Twilight's heightened emotions. Dozens of unanswered questions accumulated in her weary mind, while the persistent migraine attempted to disturb her peace. Confusion reigned, along with a myriad of inscrutable feelings, creating an impulse for her to get up from the chair and escape. She didn't see herself as a pony of bad manners, except for moments of frustration with failed spells or when she tried to advise Flurry Heart during her rebellious curiosity phase. Excluding those episodes, she didn't consider herself an alicorn with inappropriate behavior. However, waking up with her horn removed and facing a reality where everything she experienced seemed like a dream generated increasing anxiety. She was even starting to become scared of feeling both well and uncomfortable at the same time. Not an encouraging sign. She needed to find a way out and talk to the supposed Celestia, or perhaps Spike. The only certainty she had was that, in her fragile state and devoid of magic, her options were limited. In fact, the mere thought caused an itch that she had to ignore due to the bandage.

Before embarking on the task of devising an escape plan, a plate suddenly appeared before her, cutting off her thoughts. Her hind legs straightened automatically, but her expression twisted in a frown loaded with confusion and bewilderment as she discovered a fried egg next to two toasts spread with apple butter.

"Well, sugarcube, ah reckon it's an Apple-style dish! A mighty fine fried egg and some apple butter spread on them toasts, that's just what'll get yer strength back. Don'tcha reckon so?"

Twilight examined the peculiar dish in front of her; a dubious gleam reflected the confusion in her eyes as she processed the unusual combination. After a few seconds, she looked up at Applejack, her expression clearly conveying that the idea of savoring that mixture was unappealing to her.

"I appreciate your gesture, but I really don't have an appetite right now."

Noticing the lack of enthusiasm in her friend, Applejack's initial smile faded, and she let out a sigh, revealing her disappointment. "Sugarcube, ah understand ya're in a tough spot, but ya need energy to face whatever's ahead. Please, at least give it a try." she pleaded with a gentle tone, a nuance that sounded more like a desperate plea.

Twilight parted her lips but quickly sealed them shut. In the brief silence that ensued, she took the time to reflect before releasing with resignation, "...Alright, I guess," she said, placing one of her hooves on the table. Then, she huffed determinedly. "But first, I need to talk to Princess Celestia or Spike."

Applejack remained incredulous at Twilight's request. "Ah, Twi, it just ain't possible. Princess Celestia's all caught up in them Canterlot matters, and shoot, it's way too late to be goin' lookin' for Spike now." she explained with a realistic tone, then furrowed her brows in a mix of suspicion and confusion. "Why didn't ya have a chat with Celestia when she swung by the hospital to see ya? Seems like it would've been the perfect moment to tackle this matter, don't ya reckon?"

Fear was evident in Twilight's eyes, yet she attempted to conceal it by awkwardly shifting her gaze. She knew that any misstep or half-truth would be detected by Applejack. Uncertain if this pony was the real Applejack, she decided not to take the risk.

Without hesitation, she cleared her throat and uttered the first words that came to mind. "I wasn't fully aware of myself, but now I am. I remembered that there's an issue I need to clarify. So, please, if I can't reach Celestia right now, at least inform Spike that I need to talk to him."

"Uh... What?" The farmer's eyebrows furrowed, and the incredulous spark continued to flicker in her green eyes. "Ah, sugarcube, this here situation's already feelin' like a run against the clock, but truth be told, it's done gone too late. Spike's probably snoozin' over at Rarity's by now. Don't rightly know what's got ya in such a tizzy, but you best put it outta your mind for a spell and grab a bite. You need some vittles to fuel up." she said with her characteristic frankness, attempting to dissuade her from her insistence.

Twilight pressed her lips together, her gaze returning to the earth pony, this time with a gleam that conveyed urgency. "I understand, Applejack, but I really need to clarify that matter. I want to talk to Spike, regardless of the hour. If he's sleeping, I'll wake him up. But please, help me get in touch with him."

Applejack remained silent, her eyes fixed on the unicorn, assessing the urgency in her eyes. Finally, she sighed resignedly. "Well, let's strike a deal. Chow down yer grub right now, and I promise on my hoof mornin' I'll rustle up Spike and bring him over so y'all can have a good ol' chat."

With a pensive gesture, Twilight dropped her gaze to the hoof resting on the table. There were no tremors or abrupt movements, just a silence that lingered briefly before her expression softened. Almost under her breath but with undisturbed kindness in her voice, she muttered, "Alright, alright." This act brought a smile to Applejack's face. "I'll eat."

"Ya want me to lend help, or reckon you'd rather handle it on yer own?"

"No, no. I can handle it on my own," she responded firmly; however, a shadow of doubt settled in her eyes as she looked at the plate. The idea of using her hooves to grab something was unfamiliar to her, as her horn's magic had always been sufficient and more practical. But in that moment, lacking magic, she felt like a foal taking its first steps. With determination, she gathered courage and brought her two front hooves to the edges of the plate, ready to bring it closer to demonstrate her ability. Nevertheless, in just two seconds, her gripping attempt ended in failure, and her hooves slid. She persisted, trying several times, but the same result confronted her over and over.

Applejack observed with growing concern all of her friend's attempts. Noticing her obvious weakness, she couldn't contain her worry. "Shucks, Twilight! Ah reckon I get yer need to tackle things solo, but ya ain't exactly in top-notch condition, and sans yer magic, snatchin' stuff is gonna be a bit of a hurdle. Why don'tcha let me lend a hoof? Ain't no shame in askin' for help, and the last thing I aim for is watchin' ya wrestlin' unnecessarily."

"Applejack, you've already done more than enough. Let me handle this. I know I can," she insisted, trying once again, albeit in vain, to bring the plate closer. As the ruler of Equestria, she couldn't afford to give up on such a simple task. She understood that by resolving this quickly, she could go to bed earlier, and morning would come sooner. With that, she could talk to Spike and find the answers she sought more promptly.

"Twi...".

"Trust me."

After half an hour had passed, the simple task of holding the plate and proving to the supposed Applejack that she could manage on her own turned into a complete source of frustration. Each of the countless attempts to hold the fragile porcelain plate resulted in a resounding failure. She felt exhausted, helpless, and deeply embarrassed. Finally, she succumbed to defeat and chose to take a piece of toast in her mouth, place it on her hoof, and eat it, ignoring the repeated offers of help from the farmer. In a corner of her consciousness, Twilight experienced profound self-criticism for her behavior; she even felt a knot in her stomach when she noticed the sad and guilty look on the orange mare's face. Nevertheless, there wasn't much she could do. The days since she woke up had disrupted her and brought her to a point where she no longer knew what to hold onto.

She faced that same self-criticism as Applejack silently guided her, assisting her in climbing the stairs to her room. Her heart weighed so heavily that the headaches and body pains faded into the background. It was inevitable to acknowledge the overwhelming guilt, especially when the mare, without argument and only to ensure her well-being, gave up her bed, choosing to sleep in a sleeping bag. Applejack seemed not to mind, breaking the silence only to wish her good night before turning in the opposite direction to sleep. Instead of instilling calmness, this fueled a small voice in Twilight's head, reproaching her for not acting like herself. She had never shown such coldness, not even in her darkest days. It wasn't fair. It was an unknown reality for her. A reality that had to be a sham. Those ponies couldn't be real. She couldn't accept the situation, and yet she remained awake, staring at the ceiling, immersed in regret for her actions and for dismissing the possibility that this pony could be the real Applejack.