> Friendship is dead part 2 : A stallions redemption
>  by ALoneWolf
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologue: Nightmares
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

In a corridor full of nothing but darkness and emptiness, we find a   stallion walking along this aery environment not knowing where this   path leads ( If there even is a path ) . He began to wonder if he's   going forward or backwards as he continues to trek on, hell he's not   even sure if he's even walking on the ground or in the air. With the   lack of light, it made the path even more difficult to point out where   he was or where this dark realm even leads.

" I'm here   again" He says to himself as he continues to trek on. " How do I keep   ending up here? This feels like the fifth time, is this Princess Luna's   doing? And why does it feel.......familiar to me?

Unknown   to him however, A pair of eyes can be seen surveying the unicorn from   afar. He continues his trek as the feeling of being watched kicks in as   he proceeds through the dark path, he then takes it upon himself  to  check and survey his surroundings to see if he was actually being spied   on. At first there was no sign of any life, but in an instant, a dark   silhouette catches the mans eyes.

"Who's there?!" He calls   out, unfortunately there was no reply from the mysterious figure. In  an  instant, it backed away into the dark abyss as the stallion watched  on  in confusion and shock. " What the? This place is messing with   my............

But before he could say anything else, the   mysterious figure popped up from behind the man startling him to the   core sending him toppling onto the dark surface. The stallion panicked a   bit as he scrambled onto the surface in an effort to escape the dark   entity.

However, he was stopped in his tracks as he got a  closer look at the figures eyes which were now more visible, realization   came to the mans mind as he recognized  the figures eye color  belonging  to someone whom he once known.

"Twily?" He said which earned him a growl from the figure whom didn't take kindly to being called that for some reason. " Is that really you? but how, I saw you die last year, how could you possibly be here Twily............................

"Don't you dare call me that!!!" The figure roared, sending shivers down the mans spine. " You have no right Shining Armor, not after what you did to me!"

"Twily.....I mean Twilight please" He pleaded. " I'm sorry, I didn't mean to betray you. But I didn't have a choice, you were gonna kill those kids if I hadn't done something. Plus non of my words, the girls, or even Celestia's got through to you.........

"Can you blame me?!" She shot back. " Do you know how hurt I was after you banished me from your wedding, it hurt like hell! I legit felt stabbed in the back, just like that metal pipe ya jabbed into me!" I thought you loved me, but boy was I wrong, so freaking wrong! Your just like my "friends", you say that you care about me, only to ditch me the second I do something to piss you off. Yes my actions were uncalled for but so were yours ! If you had apologized to me before that damn insect queen trapped me underground, things probably could have been different"

Shining armor could only bow his head in shame as he knew his sister was right about everything that transpired last year, after pondering for a moment, he only managed to squeeze in only two words as a rebuttal. " I'm sorry" 

But this only earned him a scoff from his late sister.

"It's too late for that" She replied in a cold tone. " Like I said last year, you dug your own grave the second you banished me. And something like that can't go unpunished"

Twilight then slammed her hoof hard onto the dark surface, and in a split second Shining armor felt a strange presence from beneath his hoofs. A  terrified look formed on the mans face as his body began to sink down into the dark ground almost like quicksand. He struggled to break free, but his efforts proved pointless as he sunk further and further.

"Twilight stop please!!!" He pleaded as his upper half sank to the ground leaving him in neck length. " Please sister, give me another chance! I promise to make up for everything!"

But Twilight just shook her head " It's too late shining, you had your chance, but you blew it. And now you'll reap what you sough" Shining struggled more and more as he was only inches away from sinking completely. 

"Goodbye "brother" See you in hell!!!" was the last thing the man heard as he sank down into the dark abyss unable to scream as his sisters evil laughter echoed into the darkness.








He then shot forward as he awoken from his deadly fate as a cold sweat drenched his face while hyperventilating uncontrollably. After a moment, he  calmed down slightly as he looked around to find himself back in his houses master bedroom. He turned back to find his pregnant wife sleeping peacefully by his side, Shining  breathed a sigh of relief that it was only a nightmare and that he didn't wake up Cadence. He then turned his attention to the clock in his bedroom which read 1:45am, he took one more sigh of relief as he quietly gets out of bed, being careful not to wake his sleeping wife. He took one last look at her as he proceeded to exit the bedroom, closing the door quietly on his way out.






A few hours later


We find cadence still fast asleep, but not for long however as she turns to her side finding it empty, She then opens her eyes slightly to find her husbands side completely empty.

"Shiny?"  She says now fully awake, she looks to the clock in the bedroom which now read 4:58am two minutes before 5am, she begins to wonder where Shining might be. Her mind soon clicked as she came to the realization to where her husband might be. Slowly and carefully, she got out of bed and proceeded out of the master bedroom. She then made her way downstairs thinking that he might have gone down for a snack, but to her surprise, there wasn't a sign of him anywhere downstairs.

Not in the living room, not in the kitchen, not in his mancave in the basement, not in the dining area, or even the downstairs bathroom. There wasn't a sign of the man anywhere, suddenly a grunting sound can be heard getting the attention of the princess of love. She proceeds to follow the noise to find it coming outside, she looked out a nearby window and to her surprise, there stood Shining armor outside near the garden doing pushups. The young alicorn was surprised to find her husband working out so early in the morning.

Without a second thought, she proceeded to head outside to where her husband was hiding. She then opened the sliding glass door and walked outside. As she stepped out, she glanced over at Shining armor who continued to do pushups. She also noticed a yoga mat and a pair of dumbbells on the ground as well, and the amount of sweat dripping off of his body hinting that he's been exercising for a while especially with the dark circles around his eyes.

"198, 199, 200!!!" Shining armor said as he finished his reps, but as he wiped the sweat off his face.  He received a slight scare as he noticed his wife standing  right behind him. "Sweet Luna Cadence, ya nearly gave me a heart attack!!!!!" The princess of love let out a small giggle after seeing her husbands reaction.

"Hehe I'm sorry Shiny" she giggled. "I didn't mean to startle you, but why are you up so early anyways?"

"Oh uh" He stammered. " I just thought I'd get a few reps in so that I'm not late today" Cadence however, wasn't convinced.

"Come on Shiny, what's really the matter?" She replied. "You and I have known each other since we were kids, and I know that you only workout on random parts of the day  when somethings bothering you. So please my love, tell me what's the matter" Shining was baffled for a moment after hearing his wife's words, with him having known Cadence for a long time. he wasn't the least bit surprised that she instantly knew something was up with him. After a moment, he took a deep breath before speaking.

" Ok babe you got me" He said with a sigh. " Honestly, I've had better nights"

" It was that nightmare again wasn't it?" She asked earning a nod from the stallion. " Shiny, this is the fifth time this month"

" I know luv, but i just can't help it" He replied. " Even though you keep telling me that ti wasn't my fault, I still  can't help but feel guilty about what happened to Twily a few months ago and my harsh words towards her. Whenever I try to sleep, i keep seeing that deadly look in her eyes as if she's ready to strike me down at any second. It hurts Cadence, It hurts like hell. And to make matters worse, my parents still aren't speaking to me, they didn't even come to wish me happy birthday when I turned 25 a couple months ago, or even wish me a happy hearthswarming. I would give anything to erase my actions last year and to have my sister back. I screwed up Cadence, I let everyone down" 

"No you didn't Shiny" Cadence said. " " you shouldn't continue to blame yourself like this my love, it isn't healthy especially given the fact that you've barely been getting any sleep this month, and we're only on the second week of January. I thinks it's time you seeked some professional help"

"What do you mean by that?" He replied while raising an eyebrow.

"It's simple Shiny" Cadence continued. " I know this therapist who lives near the upper district of the Crystal empire, he's helped many creatures with the same problem that you yourself have, I can set you up an appointment with him for you later today after your done ......................

"Cadence we talked about this" Shining interrupted. " You know how I feel about revealing my personal issues with someone I don't even know"

"It's nothing like that Shiny" Cadence replied. " Therapists are there to help someone in their time of need, like how most of the guards who who had PTSD during both the changeling invasion and Sombra's attack, they've been seeking counseling to help overcome their fears and anxiety. And believe me I've been there once, remember when I told you about that bully problem back in 6th grade?"

"You blamed yourself for putting her in the hospital?" Shining said.

" Indeed" She said. " After my main tormentor made that cruel remark about me being an orphan and even call me a mishmashed freak, I snapped completely and slugged her right in the jaw breaking some of her teeth. I felt proud of myself for standing up to that meangirl while I was being escorted to detention, but my attitude changed when later that day I saw her being carried away by some paramedics"

"I was shocked to see her getting carried away, thinking that my punch was the reason she was getting sent to the hospital. My mind was full of nothing but guilt. I didn't sleep, I barely ate, and I was even too scared to go to school, sure she was awful to me, but I would never have wished that upon her" Shining armor couldn't help but feel pity for his wife after being reminded about the middle school incident that she told him about a while back.

"But soon the truth came out, as it turns out it wasn't my punch that sent her to the hospital. She had an asthma attack and forgot to bring her inhaler. I breathed a sigh of relief that I didn't send anyone to the hospital, but I still felt guilty. But thanks to some therapy sessions arranged by my adopted Aunts, I felt so much better and I started to better reinvent myself. And do you know what became of my bully now?"

"She became one of your friends, and was one of your bridesmaids" Shining armor replied.

"Exactly" Cadence said. " What I'm saying Shiny is that if I can overcome my past trauma, then so can you. I know you think it's too late  to redeem yourself my love, but it's never too late to at least try. So please Shiny do this for me, our soon to be soon or daughter, spike, and the main 5. We don't wanna see you go down this dark path any longer, and even twilight would agree that this is something that you need to feel better my love"


".............................Alright Cadence" He replied. " I'll see this therapist today once I'm off duty" Cadence smiled and leaned in for a kiss to which the man was quick to return, after a moment, the kiss ended as Cadence looked at him with proud eyes.

"Thank you Shiny"  She said, and suddenly got a surprise as she found herself being hoisted off the ground by non other than Shining armor who had her in a bridal carry looking all strong and macho as he did it"

"How did I get so lucky?" He asked"

Cadence giggled in response " I was about to ask the same thing Lets go back to bed my love, you'll need your rest if your gonna command the guard today"

"As you wish my beloved" He replied as he carried her back inside " BTW , are you sure you'll be ok being home alone?"

"Hehe shiny, I'll have you know I survived getting trapped down a cavern for two days by a Changeling. I sure as hell can handle being at home alone with a baby in me"

"If you say so my beloved" Shining replied and then brought her into another kiss as the couple  made their way back inside.
> Therapy session and a new day
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next day

We find the citizens of Ponyville going about the morning as the sun shown brightly in the atmosphere,  each and everyone of em was ready to start a new day. With a majority of it's citizens getting ready to go to school, work, setting up shop, or doing some early morning grocery shopping, etc.

Despite what happened last year involving  the Changeling invasion down in Canterlot, Twilight and Trixie's would have been takeover, and King Sombra's mayhem down in the Crystal empire. Every single citizen tried their hardest to try and move on from these whole ordeals as it's what their deceased friend would have wanted from them despite everything she's been through, and they knew that holding in grief wasn't the healthiest way to start the new year off.

A few of em actually started to take therapy sessions themselves to try and get over the traumatizing events from last year. Speaking of said events, Twilight's former friends AKA the elements of harmony have begun rebuilding their lives after Twilight's departure from the land of the living. With Rarity continuing on with her fashion business despite her lack of horn, Rainbow dash continuing her  work inside her deceased friends library, Fluttershy continuing her part of helping animals in need and her newfound bravery has helped her out tremendously, She even got herself a job at the local animal hospital, Pinkie pie despite moving back home to help with her families rock business, still dropped by from time to time to say hello and to babysit Mr and Mrs cakes kids when needed. And Applejack continued on with the family business alongside her brother , sister, and adopted brother Spike.

Speaking of said dragon, we find the young man out in the field alongside Big Mac ready to start bucking some tree's, while Granny smith was inside preparing breakfast. After achieving his growth spurt last year, the young drake saw a few changes in his appearance with him growing slightly, gaining a bit of muscle mass, and even a pair of wings, this change helped him with aiding his new family tremendously, and it also gained him attention from some of the mares in town including a certain purple maned fashionista.

"Morning ya'll" Came a voice, and the duo turned to find Applejack and Apple bloom walking towards them.

"Morning sis" Big Mac said.

"Morning Sis" Spike replied , but quickly shut his mouth after realizing what he just said.

This only earned him a giggle from the element of honesty " Spike , it's like I told ya'll last year. You don't have to be so shy, your family now, and your more than welcome to call me, Big Mac, and Bloom your siblings " Spike then blushed and smiled at the farm mares statement.

"Thanks AJ" He replied. " Sorry, guess I'm still getting accustomed to my new home" Spike then felt a hoof on his shoulder belonging to Big Mac.

"No need for that partner" He said with a smile. " Dragon or not, your family now, and we'll always have your back"

"Yup" The two sisters said in unison earning a smile of gratitude from the drake"

Bloom then took it upon herself to survey her adopted brothers figure " Man I'm still  shocked at how much you've grown a few months ago partner, wonder if It'll be the same for me once I hit my growth spurt?" Spike then scratched the back of his head as another blush formed on his face.

" Well it's different for us dragons Bloom" Spike replied and then felt a sudden surprise as he found the fillies hoof on his left pectoral.

"I'll say" Bloom said. " Have you looked in the mirror lately? Your as ripped as Bulk biceps! Hehe ya'll could probably make applesauce with these pecs" Applejack then pulled the teasing filly away from the blushing dragon.

"Ok Bloom don't tease your brother" Applejack giggled.

"Sorry sis" Bloom replied with a blush and then felt a small thud as an apple fell on top of her forehead "OW!!!!" She then picked up the apple that hit her on the head. " Well it looks like we got a head start" This earned a chorus of giggles from the trio, however their laughter was cut short as they noticed the glistening purple color coming from it, instantly recognizing it as the purple sparkle that they've discovered last year. Looks of sadness formed on each of their faces as the events of last year began to play out in their heads, but non showed true sadness more than the dragon.

"I miss her" he said sadly with the others nodding in unison.

"We all do partner" Applejack replied.

"Yup" Big Mac jumped in. " Me and her may not have interacted all the time, but Twilight was a good gal. It's a shame she had to go down that path"

"Indeed" Apple bloom said. " Even though she tried to kill me and my friends, I knew it wasn't her doing. It was her past trauma that caused her to act the way she did, not to mention Trixie's influence on her. I'll never hate her, no matter she did"

"Me neither Bloom" Spike said. There was a long silence as the group reminisced as the memories of last year began to play in their heads, mainly from Applejack and Spike with the pair knowing well that they were mostly a part of it. Both of them wishing that they could go back and change all of it, so that their friend would still be here with them, but they knew the damage was already done. As they knew it was too late to reverse what they've done. Big mac however had a different opinion.

"Hey come on ya'll" He said earning their attention. " Regardless of what happened last year, we shouldn't let that effect our flow, Twilight might have been angry, but I know that she wouldn't want us to start out the new year all gloomy. Despite everything, I guarantee that she knows ya'll are sorry and wants you to move on. It's probably too late to make amends, but the least you and Spike can do is show her that your not gonna give up on the business, and to continue on with your lives. So once again, lets not spend the new year mopping and continue on as always, cause I guarantee it's what Twilight would have wanted"

There was a short silence after the trio heard big macs words, while they couldn't reverse what they did to Twilight during the infamous wedding rehearsal incident last year, they knew  Big mac was right about how gloming over the past wasn't healthy for them as they knew Twilight despite her furious tensions would have wanted them to move on.

"Your right Big mac" Applejack replied. " We shouldn't fret over the past, it might be too late to apologize to Twilight, it's never too late to redeem ourselves"

"Amen" Spike jumped in. " I miss Twilight dearly and also wish I could have acted differently during the rehearsal, but I'm gonna try my hardest to make up for my actions. and hopefully make her proud"

" That's the spirit ya'll" Big mac said proudly. He then picked up the purple sparkle apple that fell on Bloom earlier, and using his strength, broke it off into 4 slices to which he handed to each of them. " To Twilight"

"To Twilight" the others said in unison as they pressed their apple slices together in a toast before taking a bite of their respected pieces as they reminisced about the good times they shared with their deceased friend.







Inside Golden oaks library, we find the owner and occupant of the said house/establishment Rainbow dash as she starts the check out process to her latest customer. With the element of loyalty taking over the business as a way to make it up to her deceased friend, she packed up all the knowledge that she took  after coming in frequently to check out the latest daring do book whenever Twilight had it in stock. While she barely had any experience in this sort of work, she tried her hardest to follow in the late unicorns hoofsteps. And to her surprise, business was surprisingly booming these past few months with the pegasus receiving quite a number of new and returning patrons, with a few of em being the wonderbolts themselves as Dash found herself face to face with Fleetfoot herself.

"Thanks Dash, man it's hard to believe Twilight's library actually has a copy of this book" She said.

"No prob, Fleets" Dash replied. " Happy to help, hehe I didn't know you were into these Erotica's"

This earned her an embarrassing blush from the Wonderbolt " Hehe well actually, my fiances more into em. But I actually started to get into them myself.  You could say these novels are our way to spice up things in the bedroom"

" Ah I see" Dash replied trying her hardest to keep her laughter in. " Well I won't kink shame, non of my business what happens in you guys bedroom, your secrets safe with me. BTW congrats on your engagement"

"Thanks Dash" Fleetfoot said.

"So changing the subject, how are things with the team?" Dash asked.

"Things are going pretty good actually" Fleetfoot replied. "We got a few new cadets in this month, some of em still needing a bit of experience. But once Spitfires and her cousins done with em, they'll be the finest aerial acrobatics this side of Equestria"

"There's no doubt in my mind.................wait cousin? You mean...............

"Yes, Soarin is Spitfires cousin" Fleetfoot replied. " They don't really tell most ponies as they like to keep their personal lives, well......private to the public eye and especially their fans"

"That's understandable" Dash said as she nodded her head.

"So how are things going with you Dash?" Fleetfoot asked. " Especially after what happened with...........sorry I'm going way too forward "

Dashes response however was a wave " No it's ok, to be honest, It's been pretty difficult adjusting to things with Twilight being gone. And I'd be lying if I said that i still felt guilty for not having her back at the rehearsal when she needed me and the girls the most, But I know deep down that she wouldn't want me to spend the rest of my life grieving and feeling remorse. So I'm gonna try my hardest to live up to my friends legacy and to keep her library afloat, I might not get the chance to apologize to her, but the least I can do is redeem myself" 

Fleetfoot impressed by her friends statement, gave a nod of approval " That's what i like to hear Dash, that's the sign of a true Element of Loyalty" She then took it upon herself to look at her wristwatch to check the time. " Damn I gotta run, It's almost time for practice" She then grabbed her checked out literature and proceeded towards the entrance, but not before looking back at her friend one last time . " The offer still stands if ya ever chance your mind Dash"

"I'll take ya up on that, see ya later Fleets" Dash called out. " Tell Soarin and Spitfire I said yo"

"Will do pal, will do" Fleetfoot replied before exiting. As Dash watched her leave, a small smile formed on her face as she stared up into the upper balcony of the library.




I'll make you proud Twilight







Few hours later


In the upper District of the Crystal Empire, we find Shining armor making his way towards his destination. After finishing his shift with the guards, the man made his way towards his therapists office just like he promised Cadence this morning. After what felt like a 2 mile trek, he soon reached a small building, before stepping inside he took it upon himself to check the business card that Cadence gave him which had the address of the therapist building. He then looked at the address post which was the exact same as the card, after ensuring that he was at the right place he proceeded inside the building.

As soon as he stepped in, he was greeted by the receptionist at her desk making it seem that his company was expected.

"Good afternoon your majesty" The receptionist greeted.

"Good afternoon" He greeted back. " I have a 4:00 appointment"

"Yes of course, Shining armor please follow me, I shall escort you to his office" The receptionist replied as she ushered him to follow, which he was quick to do so. After a short trek they reach the therapists room as she knocked on the door. " Mr Lockhard, your 4:00 is here"

"Thank you Charlie, please send him in" Came a voice from the other side of the door, Charlie then ushered the man to step inside before heading back to her desk. As soon as she left, Shining armor took a deep breath before stepping inside where he was met with a comfy looking room. The interior was fit with a massive rug which looked well made, a small coffee table, a throne like couch, a fireplace, a small play area for the child patience, and a book case with various types of literature.

"Have a seat Shining armor" A voice said coming from the lounge chair which was faced in the opposite direction from him, without saying a word, Shining armor stepped forward and took a seat on the couch all while feeling a sense of leisure over how comfy and soft it was, after a minute the therapist finally rotated his lounge chair 180% so that he was facing the young unicorn. Shining armor was in a state of shock cause there sitting right in front him stood not a stallion, mare, pegasus, or even an alicorn, but a griffin who looked to be in his late 20's. After another minute, the griffin therapist let out a smile before speaking again. " Pleased to meet you, I am Dr Phineas Lockhard"

"The pleasures all mine doc" Shining greeted back. " You know it's funny, I wasn't expecting you to be......................

"A griffin?" Lockhard interrupted. " Hehe no worries, I get that a lot from my patience, this might be hard to believe, but before Sombra's takeover, I was born and raised right here in the Crystal empire. My mother was a griffin originally hailed from griffinstone while my dad was an earth pony, so in a way ya might consider me part pony and part griffin" Shining armor was at awe after hearing this explanation.

" Damn, I wonder how the process to that went when he was born? " He thought to himself.

"Let us begin" Lockhard said. " How was your day today your majesty?"

"It was good" Shining replied. " And please , you don't have to be so formal, just Shining armor is fine"

"Yes of course, apologies" He replied and then began writing down on his  clipboard much to the stallions suspicions.

"What are you writing?" He said nervously.

"I'm just jotting down how your feeling right now" Lockhard explained,.

"Oh, sorry I didn't mean to sound suspicious or anything" Shining replied. " I'm sure my wife informed you already but, I'm not really comfortable with revealing my personal matters with someone I don't even know" 

Lockhard let out a small giggle as a response. "I understand Shining armor, no worries. Like I said your not the only one, my other patience feel the same way, but I assure you, everything that's said in this room will only remain in this room. You have my word"

“ Ok doc, I trust you” Shining armor replied.

“ Excellent” Lockhart said. “ Let us continue, so tell me how you’re really feeling right now? I heard about what went down in Canterlot last year during your wedding and from what I’ve heard from Cadence, you’ve been experiencing nightmares and a form of PTSD caused by the memories of your deceased sister and her would have been takeover?” Shining armors only response was a bow of shame as the memories of last year began to play out in his head, including not only his nightmares, but his hurtful words towards his sister during the rehearsal. Lockhart was quick to notice this and began sympathizing. “ You don’t have to tell me if your not comfortable”

“ No it’s ok Doc” Shining armor replied. “ I’ve already come this far, I might as well spill the beans” He took a long deep breath before speaking again. “ Honestly I’ve had better days, ever since the New Year’s Eve I’ve been having these nightmares which involved me being trapped in a dark realm where I’m hunted down by my vengeful sister whom proceeded to kill me in numerous ways raging from………..actually I’d rather not relive them again” Lockhart nodded in an understanding matter as he proceeded to write on his clipboard.

“ Every single day, can’t help but feel guilty about what I said to her back at the wedding rehearsal. All Twilight was trying to do was warn me about the imposter, but I instead let my instincts get the better of me as I stupidly believed that Cadence was just under some wedding stress, and I made the most heartless mistake by banning my own sister from the wedding and I even dragged her friends, and Celestia in too. But by the time I finally learnt the truth about the imposter, it was already too late as her mind control spell finally kicked in”

“ While I was under her trance, I though all hope was lost, that is until Cadence broke me free of her control and using the power of our love, we sent the Changeling queen and her subjects flying out of Canterlot. But alas this story has no happy ending as the damage was done, my sister wanted nothing more to do to me, her friends, and mentor  after our harsh treatment towards her during the rehearsal. Her heart was so shattered that she turned to the dark side and even teamed up with her former rival Trixie lunamoon. And with their combined forced, they begun to rampage through various towns in Equestria including Canterlot as an act of revenge”

“ Her plan was to spread the word that friendship was all but a waste of time and intended to erase it from existence,  before we knew it, she began rampaging through Ponyville where she already injured the element of Loyalty Rainbow dash, she was so consumed by the darkness that she was one step away from turning into the next Nightmare, and she was also close to taking the lives of three innocent fillies . We tried to reason with her but non of our words got to her as she was too far gone, so I had no choice to take matters into my own hands which resulted in the loss of the Element of magic”

Shining armor sniffed a little as he continued “ After that I lost both my sister and my own parents too who still aren’t speaking to me as they fully blamed me for my sisters demise, and honestly I don’t blame them. I was a dick towards my sister, sorry for the language. If I could take back what I said to her and to earn back her love and my parents trust again I would, but it’s far too late and I can  never fix it. I’m a monster doc, I don’t deserve to be the prince of the Crystal empire, or to be a big brother, I’m as cruel as the changeling queen” 

“ No you’re not shining armor Lockhard said as he handed a tissue to the sobbing stallion. “ I’m sure you’ve been told this hundreds of times, but you shouldn’t blame yourself for your sisters downfall. I may not have been there, but I know deep down that you didn’t mean to hurt your sister, and deep down she knows that you didn’t mean it either. And honestly I can sympathize with ya, cause I’ve been in your shoes myself”

“You have?” Shining asked as he blew his nose.

“ Indeed” Lockhard answered. “ You see, I wasn’t an only child in my family, I had an older brother as well who was a stallion BTW. And I’m being completely serious when I say, he always made my life a living hell ever since I was 5. He always bullied me and got me in trouble with mom and dad, I can’t even remember a month where he hasn’t framed me for something that he did.  I was emotionally terrified of him, I wanted to tell mom and dad but he always threatened to hurt me if I ever snitched on him so I always kept my mouth shut while he acted like the "perfect son", that is until that faithful day”

“ Once we started high school, the bullying got worse and worse and he even got some of his jock friends involved too. I even had to lie that I fell down the stairs when mom and dad found a large bruise on my left wing, and trust me you do not want to know what they did to it. But then one day he went too far, he and his buddies snuck the devils lettuce to school and started secretly smoking it in the gymnasium, but my brother clumsily dropped his joint near the bleachers before he even took a puff causing them to catch fire. The entire gymnasium was set ablaze and by the time the fire department arrived, everything was destroyed. And guess who my brother pinned the blame on ? Me”

“ I ended up getting expelled and grounded for an entire year for something I didn’t do, while my brother took the joy that it was me getting in trouble and not him. I was so upset that I decided the only way to escape my brothers abuse was to run away, I packed up my stuff that wasn’t confiscated and left the house not even bothering to leave a note. I was on my own for an entire month and took refuge in the icy tundra as I didn’t have any money and my other relatives lived to far away for me to fly. After a whole month pasted, I was already running out of food and was all  tattered, hungry, cold, and miserable, I knew that I was gonna die. But a part of me accepted it as it would mean that I would be free from my brother for good”

“ But to my surprise, I was eventually found by some guards and brought into the hospital where my various wounds from the wild animals I encountered were treated and I found myself reunited with my folks. I was scared to see them thinking they’d be furious at me, but to my surprise, they hugged me and apologized to me. As it turns out, after finding out that I ran away, my brother for once in his life felt guilty and admitted to not only being the cause of the gym fire, but for everything else that he’s done to me since we were kids.  After that he was given my punishments instead and my parents orchestrated a search party for me where I was eventually found, my brother stepped up with guilt and remorse written all over his face and he apologized to me for the first time”

“ But I didn’t forgive him and told it to his face that I no longer wanted anything to do with him, after I was checked out of the hospital I was welcomed back to school and received multiple apologies from the principle, teachers, and my classmates and was now ungrounded. But as for my brother, I kept my word about cutting him out of my life. He and his friends were now expelled, and instead of getting grounded ,my parents instead shipped him off to a boarding school in Canterlot as punishment for his harsh treatment towards me over the years. After that I haven’t seen him since, he still sends me apology letters to this day, but I still struggle on whether or not I’m emotionally ready to forgive him”

Shining armor was at a loss for words once the doc was finished with his little tale, The man couldn't believe that Lockhard had such a troubling childhood in the hands of his older sibling. " I had no idea you went through so much pain from your older sibling Doc, I'm so sorry"

"It's quite alright my boy" Lockhard replied. " My point being Shining Armor, is that you shouldn't blame yourself for your sisters downfall, sure your actions at the rehearsal were pretty cruel, it wasn't your fault. While it might have been too late for me and my brother, it's never to late for you. Deep down Twilight and even your parents know that you didn't mean to hurt anyone and that your truly sorry, It may take time , but I guarantee that you'll earn back your parents love again and to redeem yourself. Sure they may be furious at you, but they still love you, it just takes time to move on from a traumatic incident such as this. Your a good man Shining armor and don't let anyone tell you your not" Shining armor remained silent at first, still believing that it was too late to redeem himself. But he also knew that the doctor and Cadence were right about at least trying to make amends, after a moment he finally spoke up.

"Ok doc........I'll try" He said earning a nod from the griffin.

"Excellent" Lockhard said proudly. " Now let us continue........................................







An hour later

The door of Lockhards office swung open as a now more cheerful Shining armor stepped out, but not before turning back to the therapist. " Thank you Doc, that's just what I needed"

"Happy to help Shining armor" He said with a smile. " So I shall see you next week then?"

Shining then gave a nod to the griffin therapist. " You got it, I'll see you soon Doc"

"Have a nice day Shining armor" Lockhart replied as the two men waved goodbye to one another as Shining armor stepped outside of the office, as soon as he left the room, the receptionist Charlie stepped in.

"Sorry to pop in unannounced Mr Lockhart" She said.  "But i came to inform you that your 5:00 is gonna be a few minutes late as his job needed him to cover for another coworker who was absent"

"That's quite alright Charlie" He said. " My doors will still be open by the time he gets here...............actually that's actually a convenience for me, Charlie mind taking a note for me?"

"Of course Doctor" She replied. " but to whom is the note for? Is it your delayed client?"

"No " He said. " Lets just say that its someone whom I've been putting off talking too for years, and I thinks it's about time me and him finally got things off of our chests"
> A long awaited meeting : part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A month has passed, and suffice to say, things were starting to look up for shining armor. With him continuing his therapy sessions every other Thursday, the man was starting his road to recovery. While there was still a few rifts that needed to be sorted, It was never the less a good start for the stallion. With the support of Cadence and his fellow guards, his road to recovery was taking a good turn.





Meanwhile in Ponyville

On this quiet morning, we find the main 5 or should I say the main 4 spike included making their way towards the train station. Last night, the young drake received a letter from Celestia whom requested that they all head over to the Crystal empire tomorrow morning to discuss a long awaited topic. Unfortunately the sun goddess hadn't informed him about what the meeting was to address. But there was no doubt in their minds that it was probably something serious, as they waited for the train to arrive along with the two guards who were their escorts as well, they began to ponder about what exactly Celestia has to address.

"Man, a royal meeting huh? " Dash asked. " It's been a while since we've had one of those"

"Sure has partner" Applejack replied. " It's also our first one without.................." The farmer stopped herself after realizing that she was seconds away from saying the name of her late friend, and soon the others were quick to catch on to this.

"We know darling, we know" Rarity said as she placed a hoof on the farm girls shoulder.

"She's not the only one absent" Fluttershy jumped in.

"Oh yeah....her" Applejack said. " should we just go without her?"

"I wouldn't risk it AJ" Spike replied. " Celestia said that she needs all of us present, and if the letter states that we're all to be summoned,  then there's no doubt in my mind that it's something urgent" 

"Not saying that we don't agree to you Spike" Fluttershy said. " But Pinkie might be hard to convince, we've barely even seen her around ever since she moved back home. The only times we've been lucky was when she's out grocery shopping or asked to babysit the Cakes twins, and the only interactions we got out of her was a simple hello and goodbye, she doesn't even skip around anymore like she used to, hell I can't even remember the last time I've seen her smile"

"No argument there Shy" Applejack jumped in. "Can't really blame the poor girl, especially given that this wasn't the first time she's lost a friend. Even if we could, would we even have time to get her? After all the train to the Crystal Empire arrives in 20 minutes, while her family home is a 30 minute walk"

The others couldn't help but nod in agreement fully knowing that Pinkies family home was a pretty long walk, and even if they arrived, there was now as they'd make it back in time to catch the train before it departed to the Crystal empire. Dash however had another option.

"What if I could get there in less than 10 minutes?" Dash said earning everyone's attention.

"What do you mean Dash?" spike asked?

" What I mean Spike is that I could arrive there in no time" She replied. " I'm the fastest of the group after all,  if I cut through the Everfree forest and with the aid of my Sonic Rainboom, me and Pinkie should be back in time before the train even enters the platform"

"That's a pretty insane bet there darling" Rarity said. " Are you sure you wanna risk it?"

"Trust me Rarity, I can do this" Dash reassured.  "Me and Pinkie go way back as well, so I should have some luck in convincing her to come out of her depressed shell. So I'll go over there and try to talk some sense into her, and if I don't make it back in time , just go on without me" She then hoisted herself into the air as she began to take off. " Trust me ,me and Pinkie will be back before you even know it. I'll be back guys" And with that, the pegasus took off at lightning speed towards her destination as the others watched on.

"I really hope that girl knows what she's doing" Applejack said to herself.







Later

After a 9 minute flight, with the added boost of her Sonic rainboom stunt, the element of loyalty soon arrived at her destination, the Pie family rock farm. Unlike the Apple family business which specialized in well......apples. The Pie families main expertise was mining stones and rare rocks, with some of them containing either priceless gems or valuable minerals which helped to keep the farm afloat. While Pinkie loved her family and even helped out a lot during her teenage years, she eventually found her true calling in Culinary, mainly baking once she entered adulthood. while her parents and sisters were surprised at first that she didn't want to continue on with the family business, they never the less supported the party girls dream, but alas her dream was now a mere memory since last years events.

The pegasus proceeded to land onto the rocky terrain making her way towards the house, after reaching the front porch, she then proceeded to knock on the front door and patiently waited for someone to answer. And soon after a minute, the front door opened and there stood the Pie family matriarch cloudy quartz.

"Rainbow dash" She said.

"Hello Mrs Pie, long time no see" Dash greeted.

"Indeed" Cloudy replied, there was a short silence for a moment before she finally continued. " I take it your here to see Pinkie pie?"

" Yes I am" Dash answered. " Celestia summoned us , and she needs all of the elements present and accounted for"

"I figured as much" Cloudy quartz replied with a small giggle " I swear that daughter of mind is turning more into a superhero than as a farmer or baker, anyways she's out back helping out her father in the field. But I must warn ya kid, she's been pretty difficult to talk too lately"

"I'm sure I can manage" Dash reassured. " Me and Pinkie go way back after all, so I'm sure she'll at least hear me out. And if not, at least I tried right?" The earth mare gave a nod of approval before ushering the pegasus to come on in. 

Soon the pegasus entered the family home  making her way towards the living room which housed the sliding glass door leading towards the rock fields, After opening said door, the pegasus proceeded to walk outside as Cloudy quartz silently wished the pegasus good luck with her friend. Dash was now outside the rock fields surveying her surroundings for any sign of Pinkie and her father, soon she found the father daughter duo hammering away at a giant boulder as various shards of debris fell down onto the pile of rubble. After what felt like an eternity, they finally finished up collecting the necessary shrapnel and minerals from the boulder that they disintegrated and then proceeded to wipe the sweat off their faces as Dash approached them.

"Pinkie?"  Dash said which earned their attention, as Dash surveyed her friend, she was surprised to find a few changes in her appearance especially given that she hasn't seen her in a while. With her once poofy hair now deflated and flat, lack of smile on her face, and has gained quite a bit of muscle from working out in the rock field. 

"Hello Dash" Pinkie finally said in a bit of an emotionless tone.

"Rainbow dash, long time no see" Her father Igneous Rock greeted.

"Hey Mr Pie" Dash replied and then gave a nod towards the family breadwinner , to which he was quick to understand that the pegasus wishes to talk to his daughter in private.

"I'll leave you two alone to catch up" He said. " I'm gonna go sharpen my pickaxe" And with that the man made his way towards his shed to sharpen his mining tool leaving the girls alone to recollect, there was an awkward silence at first as both of them thought of what to say to each other, given that they barely seen each other for a while after the once happy go lucky earth pony moved back home, at long last the latter finally spoke.

" It's been quite a while Dash" She said surprising the pegasus as usually she'd call her by the nickname that she gave her "Dashie"

"Yeah it has been" Dash replied in a quiet tone.

"So what brings ya here ?" Pinkie asked.

"Well............" Dash began. " We received a letter from Celestia whom insisted that we head on over to the Crystal empire immediately to discuss  an important manor"

Pinkie was taken aback by this, but knew just what the pegasus was trying to do, but tried her hardest to keep her cool. " I see, so why are you telling me this?"

"I'm telling you this because she requested that all of the elements are present for the meeting" Dash replied only earning a back turn from the earth pony.

"I'm sorry Dash" Pinkie said. " But you'll have to leave me out of this"

"Pinkie, didn't you hear what I said?" Dash asked.

"As Applejack would say......yup" Pinkie answered.

"Then why don't you wanna go?" Dash asked again.

"Because there's no need for me to go" Pinkie replied.

"Why would there be no need.........

"Because Twilight isn't gonna be there alright?!" She shouted while turning to face the rainbow haired pegasus, the earth pony panted violently for a minute before taking a long deep breath as she began to calm herself down slightly. “ There’s no reason for me to be there Dash, if Twilight isn’t there, then what’s the point if not all of my friends are gonna be present?”

“ I understand that Pinkie, I really do” Dash replied. “ But even with one of us gone, we’re still the laments of harmony, and we still have a responsibility. And Twilight would want us to carry on our legacy’s despite her outrage last year”

“ So you say” Pinkie replied in a cold tone. “ I highly doubt Twilight has the least bit of sympathy for us now even in death, look how we treated her back at the rehearsal? Do you honestly expect her to still have a care in the world after something like that, and this wasn’t even her first time getting betrayed by those she once called friends, look at Comet tail for example. She stated that he only pretended to be her friend back in high school just to humiliate her, and even now she still held a grudge against him and his friends, whatever prank he and his cronies pulled on her back in the gymnasium must have been something completely unforgivable. It’s just like what we did to her, we tried apologizing, showing her how sorry we were, only to be met with two of our friends getting hospitalized, our home almost getting taken over, and to top it all off the CMC’s almost dies in her hoofs all because of our mistake”

“ Yes our mistake Pinkie” Dash jumped in. “ We made a mistake Pinkie, but we mustn’t continue to blame ourselves. You may have a different opinion, but deep down I’m sure Twilight knows that we were truly sorry for leaving her. She was just influenced by Trixie and that Alicorn amulet which cause her heart to darken”

“ Be that as it may Dash, I highly doubt we can ever make up for what we’ve done” Pinkie replied. “ Honestly there’s no point in me even continuing on as the element of laughter, cause if all I do is cause my friends to be sad and angry, than I must have been the wrong choice. And that damn wedding was the perfect example on how I screw up my role”

“Pinkie please, I know you…………………..

“ My minds made up Dash, I’m not going” Pinkie said as she turned around not bothering to give the Pegasus her full attention anymore. “ If I do, I’ll just end up ruining more lives” 

Dash was visibly appalled at her friends statement and the fact that she was giving up so easily,  with her expression hidden in her bangs, the Pegasus finally mustered up the courage to say her final piece towards her friend.

“ Well Pinkie” She began. “ If this is what you want…..then fine. But let me tell you something, I was the same way as you, when I got that invitation to participate in the Wonderbolts boot camp for a shot at joining the team. Do you know what I did? I turned it down, do you know why? Because I knew my dream of joining the greatest air acrobatics team in Equestria wouldn’t be complete without all my friends by my side, but I didn’t just give up so easily unlike you, I decided to take over Twilights library to carry on her legacy and to hold a piece of her with me. Cause if it wasn’t for Twilight, I never would have been introduced to the world of literature and my favorite book series, Daring do. I know its too late to make amends with Twilight , but I didn’t let that stop me, cause the least I could do is move on with my life and to try and redeem myself cause like I said, even though she didn’t show it, I know deep down Twilight still cares about us and knows we’re sorry for everything a and wouldn’t want us to give up on our dreams, and the same goes to you. Cause the Pinkie pie I know wouldn’t give up so easily, she’d come up with a way to make everyone around her smile and to cheer them up regardless if they say they don’t need it, that’s the Pinkie pie that I no we know and love”

With nothing more to say the Pegasus took a breath of defeat before taking off back towards the train station to meet up with the others, but unknown to her however, a small tear can be seen sliding down her cheek as the sound of her friend flying away entered the horizon.







 Moments later

We find the group inside the train carrying them towards the Crystal empire, each one of ‘em had various emotions after the element of loyalty came back empty handed without Pinkie by her side like she promised.  As they each look out the windows of their respected seats watching the trees and small towns pass them by, they silently wished that Pinkie was here as well.

“ Sorry guys, I tried my best “ Dash said.

“ No worries partner” Applejack replied. “ I’m sure Celestia will understand” 

“ I sure hope so” Spike said, and then turned his attention towards the two guards who were sitting in the seats next to him. “ By the way, you guys wouldn’t happen to know what this meeting is about would ya?”

“ Sorry kid, we were given orders not to disclose the purpose of your visit until we arrive at said destination” one of the guards said.

“ We figured as much darling, but we understand” Rarity replied. “ And by the way, thank you two for your help”

One of the guards raised an eyebrow at the mares statement “ With what?”

“ For helping us out back in Ponyville after Twilight and Trixie tried to take over the town”  Rarity answered.

“ Well it was our pleasure Miss” the other guard with the dark blue mane said. But we didn’t really do that much, I only guarded trixie”

“ And I only guarded the chariot” the other said

“ Nonsense!” Applejack jumped in. “ You two were definitely a big help, for example if you haven’t had placed that dispersion band on Trixie, she might have finished us off and broke free. And you two also helped us in getting here fast enough before it was too late, you may think you might have done little, but I know damn well that’s not true, you guys were a big help. And I’m sure Celestia was so proud of your hard work that day, and I know your respected families are proud of you too” The two Pegasus guards smiled warmly after hearing the mares statement.

“ Why thank you miss, that’s mighty kind of you to say” The dark blue maned one replied. “ And it was no problem, we were happy to help. Oh I’m Flash Sentry by the way”

“ And I’m Spearhead “ the other said.

“ It’s nice to meet you two “ the others said in unison.

“ It’s super duper nice to meet new friends” Came a voice which quickly earned the groups attention after recognizing the voice , and there stood non other than Pinkie pie herself with her poofy hair back to its normal shape along with a big smile on her face.

“ Pinkie!!!!”  Everyone said happily and were quick to get up from their respected seats to bring the element of laughter into their famous group hug which she was quick to return.

“ I’m sorry guys” She said softly. “ Especially to you too Dash, I was being a silly Billy”

“ Don’t worry about it Pinks” Dash said as tears of joy began to form. “ It’s good to have you back buddy”

As the group continued to embrace each other, Flash, Spearhead, and the other passengers couldn't help but observer and smile at this heartfelt moment between the 6 friends.







The Crystal Empire

"And after my 50 pushups I go on ahead with the boulder deadlifts, and afterwords I reward myself with a yummy strawberry protein shake during breakfast and I tell ya it is goooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooood!" Pinkie explained earning giggles from the group, as the train finally reached their respected destination. The group made their way off the platform as Pinkie continued to explain her workout routine to them and even offering a few tips as well, within a minute the reached the stations exit beginning their trek towards the city.

"Hehe alright Pinkie, lets focus on the task in hand for now" Applejack said with a new boost of happiness at having her poofy haired friend back to her normal and talkative self .

"Okie Dokie" Pinkie said with a playful solute. " So are we heading towards the castle fellahs?"

"Actually no" Flash replied. " The castles still being repaired after the Sombra attack a few months ago, so the meetings being held in Cadence and Shining's mansion/ temporary home. Oh and also we should probably give you guys a warning"

"About what?" Spike asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Wellllllllllll" Spearhead jumped in. " Shining armor kind of went through a few changes" Saying this earned even more raised eyebrows from the group.

"What kind of changes?" Fluttershy asked.

"He.................dyed his mane" Flash said with a short pause, the groups reaction however was not surprise but hilarity, especially given that they thought it was something serious.

"That's it?" Dash asked with a chuckle. " I mean come on, there's nothing wrong with  a guy dying his mane. I even heard from Spitfire that Soarin dyed his mane a lighter blue last month"

"It's not the fact that he dyed his mane Dash' Spearhead replied. " It's the color he chose"

"What do ya mean?" Pinkie asked. " Did he dye his mane yellow, pink, or even white with polka dots like a clown?"

"No" Flash replied. " Something a little.......................................Unsettling"







Unsettling was right, as the group finally arrived at the royal couples humble abode, they were soon met with said couple. But their eyes were focused on the stallion as his new mane color was out in the open for all to see, and it wasn't just his new look, but the stallion looked more bright and cheerful. Unlike the last time they saw him when he was silently depressed over the events last year, but now it seemed like he was back to his normal self making it seem like nothing happened to him.

"Welcome guys" Cadence said with a smile.

"Welcome to our humble abode" Shining armor greeted and then walked towards his adopted brother and was quick to embrace him and even survey his new form. " It's nice to see you as well Spike, damn that growth spurt really did wonders for ya lil man"

"Uh....yeah it has" spike awkwardly replied. " It's nice to see you and Cadence again too" As the stallion ended the hug, there was an awkward silence  for a moment, which he was quick to notice.

"Is there something wrong?" Shining armor asked raising an eyebrow.

"No there's nothing wrong darling" Rarity said. " We're just surprised as all, when Flash and Spearhead told us that you dyed your mane, it seems they weren't kidding"

"Huh?" Shining replied " Oh yeah my mane. Hehe I figured you guys would be quick to notice my new color, I just wasn't sure if it was the right time to show it off especially given that there's more important things too............." Shining then noticed the group looking uncomfortable. " What's wrong everyone? Do you not like it?"

"No, no it's not that partner" Applejack jumped in. " It's just.............why purple?"

"Oh? Hehe well I just figured that it would suit me more" Shining replied. " But in all honesty, I just felt like changing myself up a bit. It was actually a suggestion from my therapist that I try to express myself more, and I figured stylizing my mane was a nice start. Plus I kind of like the color purple , it actually matches my white fur more" The others were baffled by this as the stallion continued to smile, while he says that he's simply expressing himself more. Deep down they knew something was defiantly off with the man.

"I see..................."Applejack replied nervously, and then turned to the princess of love. " Uh Cadence, would it be ok if we talked to ya'll in private"

The young alicorn raised an eyebrow at the farmers suggestion, but never the less accepted. " Uh sure AJ, Shiny you Spearhead, and Flash head inside, tell my aunts we'll be in there soon"

"Of course honey" He said and then gave her a quick peck on the cheek before he and his fellow comrades went inside leaving the group alone, there was a short silence for a moment as each of em tried to find the right words to say to the princess.

"Alrighty, what is it you guys wanted to talk to me about?" She asked.

" Well......."Rarity began. " No offense your majesty but, are you blind?!"

Cadence was in shock after hearing the words come out of the element of generosity. " Excuse me?!"

"Cadence can't you see?" Fluttershy jumped in. " The poor mans clearly not well,  have you seen his mane?"

"Yeah he dyed it the same color as Twilight for crying out loud!" Dash replied. " Doesn't that concern you in the slightest?"

"Now girls settle down" Cadence said in a soothing tone. " It's not like that, Shining's been going through a lot since last year, and like he said this was his way of expressing himself. And it's true what his therapist said to him, also he's been taking therapy sessions to resolve some of his problems, him dying his mane was again a way to express himself , to make him feel more confident. Though I'd be lying if I said that I didn't react the same way you guys did when I saw the color myself,  and besides, twilight's was a darker purple" Applejack was taken aback by this along with the others.

" I see" She replied. " I guess I can understand that Cadence, speaking of Shining, how is he doing anyways? Ya'll said that he started taking therapy?"

"Yes he is" Cadence answered. " He's been doing significantly well, the nightmares that he's been having have stopped completely and he's a lot more cheerful and happy now. Though he's still trying to find the courage to visit Twilight's grave and his parents still aren't speaking to her"

"I feel that" Dash said. " He's not the only one, Mr and Mrs Sparkle are still pissed off at us too. Hell they haven't even responded back to that apology letter that we sent them last month"

"It's the same with Shiny too" Cadence replied. " I think they just need time to cool off, but deep down they know all of you including Shiny and my aunt Celestia are truly sorry for Twilight's downfall, they just need time to process it" The others nodded in agreement knowing that the princess of love had a point about the couple needing some time , given that they lost their daughter.

" Guess your right darling" Rarity said. " Also my deepest apologies for snapping at you" 

The princess of love smiled and gave a forgiving nod. "It's alright Rarity, again I don't blame you , we've all been going through quite a lot these past few months. But it'll get better I promise, now come lets not keep the others waiting" With nothing more to say, the group made their way inside the large house to begin their long awaited meeting with the sun and moon goddesses.
> A long awaited meeting : part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The group were now inside the couples homes, as Cadence guided them towards the living room, each one of em took the chance to admire the lovely atmosphere of the humble abode that the couple temporarily lived in.

"Wow Cadence, your house is quite lovely" fluttershy complimented.

"Not to mention big" Dash pointed out.

"Hehe thanks guys" Cadence replied. " This was actually my aunts living quarters back during their college days, over the years before the Sombra attack last year they've allowed it to be rented to any students who've weren't able to acquire a dorm for the semester. There weren't any clients this year so they allowed me and Shiny to use it as a temporary living quarter while the Castle was under repair"

"Damn I knew Celestia and Luna lived a glamorous life" Dash said in amazement. "But the fact that they lived in a freaking mansion during their college days ?! Even me and Fluttershy's frat house wasn't this big, honestly I'd take this place over a castle any day" Cadence giggled a bit at the pegasus's response. 

"Trust me Dash" Cadence replied. " Trying to hold royal meetings in whats essentially an old frat house, is like holding a presidential campaign in a donut shop"

"Not unless both candidates have a craving for donuts" Pinkie jumped in earning cries of laughter from the others, which boosted the element of laughter's spirits at the fact that she can still make others laugh after putting her former self on hiatus for a while. " So wheres the meeting to be Cadence?"

"In the dining room of course" Cadence said as she reached for the door leading to said area. " Me and Shiny figured that you guys would be hungry after the long train ride here, so we prepared a big lunch for you all after we got down to business" The others showed gratitude towards the princess of love, especially given the fact that they'll be greeted to a wondrous feast afterwords courtesy of the royal couple. "Oh and by the way, we kind of have a surprise guest as well"

The girls and Spike each raised an eyebrow, each of em not expecting another guest in the room during the meeting.

"Uh, who would that be ?" Dash asked as Cadence opened the dining room door, and the group soon got their answer as their jaws dropped at what they were seeing. There sitting on the large table stood non other than the royal sisters, Celestia and Luna, as well as Shining armor and of course Spearhead and Flash Sentry. But what caught the groups eyes was the familiar mixed mashed creature that sat at the center of the dining room table donning a fancy looking tuxedo along with a bowler hat.

"Hello ladies" He greeted with a wink.

"DISCORD?!" The group said in shocking unison, ever since Celestia decided to release Discord  a few month ago in an attempt to reform him, the draconequus overjoyed in his new found freedom and spent these last few months trying his hardest to redeem himself ( while also playing the usual pranks and gags from time to time). He eventually proved to be a changed man , with the Sun goddess seeing him as more of a jokester than as a villain.  The girls eventually forgave him too after sending them multiple apology letters and even throwing them a massive "I'm sorry party", but despite seeing him as a friend and ally now, the group still felt a bit uncomfortable being around him especially given their first encounter with him a while back. 

"That's my name, don't wear it out" Discord replied with a sly smile.

"Uh not to sound rude Discord" Fluttershy said. " But why are you here?"

"What? Can't a draconequus come in and support his buddies?" He replied. " Plus I wanted to see the old frat house again after all these years, and boy after all these years, it's still in pretty damn good shape as the day we moved in here for the semester.  Hehe hey Luna, remember when Celestia caught you and Sombra making out in the bathtub after that lil drinking game? And the keg was still in there too! "

"I thought we agreed never to speak of that again?" Luna said in annoyance and with a blush.

"Alright you too enough" Celestia interrupted. " We have more important manors than reminiscing about our fraternity days, please have a seat everyone" The others did as instructed and each took their respected seats , as everyone was now comfortable and fully seated , the sun goddess finally continued. “ So as you all know it’s been a year since ………the incident with Twilight” The group nodded their heads in saddened agreement. “ Even though we’ve lost the element of magic, you five have done a wondrous job in continuing on as the elements of harmony and stopping Sombra’s attempt at taking over the Crystal empire, and I couldn’t have been prouder of you all”

“However” Luna jumped in. “ There comes the matter of, it’s only you five now. While thou have done a good job aiding Equestria, minus the element of magic on your side. I’m afraid that the elements of Laughter, generosity, kindness, loyalty, and honesty aren't gonna be enough for the next threat that might come upon us at any day. I know you guys don’t want to hear this, but after a few months, thou thinks it’s about time that we find a suitable replacement for the element of magic. I know this hard to take in everyone, but all six elements are needed in order to better prepare for the next threat. While you all got lucky with King sombra, Celestia rest his soul, there’s no telling how powerful the next adversary will be”

“So we’ll need to find a worthy candidate for the position of the element of magic” Celestia replied, the group were silent for a moment as they took in the princesses words, while they didn’t like the idea of replacing Twilight, they knew that Celestia and Luna were right as theres no telling how strong the next villain they face will be, and that having six elements would give them an even greater advantage to protect equestria.

“We understand your majesties” Applejack said. “ In all honesty, we all knew this was to come eventually”

“Indeed” Rarity jumped in. “ While I don’t like the idea of replacing my friend, it might be for the best that we find a replacement for the good of equestria”

Everyone nodded in agreement for a moment before Luna broke the ice.

“So, does thou know of any pony or creature who might be worthy of the title?” Luna asked as the others pondered for a moment, trying to think of a worthy candidate.

“ What about that super strong pegasus friend of Thunderlane, Bulk biceps was it?” Pinkie asked. “ Having some extra muscle on the team would give us an advantage, plus when he’s not shouting, he can be a pretty nice stallion”

“There’s more to the group than just muscle darling” Rarity replied. “ Besides pegasus can’t use magic, and  with my horn gone, it’s only fair that we have another magic user in the group”

“That’s a good point sugarcube” Applejack said as she scratched her chin. “ Hmmmmmm what about Lyra?”

“I highly doubt Lyra can fight AJ” Dash replied. “ Wait , doesn’t that  old friend of Twilight, Moondancer was it still live in Canterlot? Why don’t we ask her?”

“After Twilight explained to us how their friendship ended” Spike jumped in. “ I highly doubt she’d want anything to do with the element of magic, or Twilight for that matter.  A part of me wants to volunteer, but the only magic I know is my teleporting fire, and I doubt fires gonna be enough to take out the next adversary”

“That is true Spike” Fluttershy replied. “ Hmmmmm what about Trixie?”

“WHAT?!” Everyone shouted in shock.

“Just hear me out” Fluttershy continued. “ I know she’s done some bad stuff, but maybe we can have her on probation and try to reform her like we did with Discord?” Discord couldn’t help but smile at his Pegasus friends statement.

“No offense Shy, but that is a terrible idea” Applejack said in annoyance.

“Amen, after what that bitch did, there’s no way in hell I’ll trust her to wield the element of magic” Dash replied in agreement. “ Plus with how psycho she is, she’d probably betray us and use it to get revenge”

“Not to mention it was mostly her fault we lost Twilight in the first place” Pinkie Jumped in. “ She’s nothing but an egotistical Meany pants”

“Sorry shy, but Trixie can’t be trusted” Spike said.

Shy lowered her head, as she knew they were right about the boastful magician. “ You’re right……sorry, stupid idea”

“Wait Shining armor what about you?” Pinkie pointed out surprising the stallion. “ Your magic skills are just as impressive as Twilights, and that shield spell of yours will definitely come in handy for defensive measures, plus you are Twilights brother after all, so it’s only fair to continue on the legacy in her honor”

“Sorry Pinkie” Shining interjected. “ I appreciate that but, I’m needed here in the Crystal empire, plus I have both the responsibilities of a prince and as the captain of the Crystal guards, that would be too many tasks for me to handle. And with the distance between us I’m not gonna be able to join you guys in time,  and even if I wanted to, wearing the element of magic would only remind me too much of Twilight”

Shining said no more and was on the verge of lowering his head as Cadence placed a comforting hoof on her husbands shoulder. 

“We understand darling” Rarity reassured. “ Wait Zecora’s mage stuff is kind of like magic, plus she can brew so many potions , those might come in handy”

“That is an interesting choice Rarity” Applejack replied. “ But I don’t think Zecora’ mage and potion stuff would be enough “

“Hey that rhymes!” Pinkie jumped in earning raised eyebrows from the group.

“So…….”AJ jumped in. “ Does anyone else have anymore suitable unicorn candidates?”

“ Well, we could have one of our unicorn guards fill the position” Luna suggested.

“Luna, I don’t thinks thats a good idea either” Celestia interjected. “ Like Shining armor and Cadence, they already have responsibilities both here and in canterlot, we can’t honestly send one of them away to become the element of magics replacement”  As the others continued to ponder on whom might be a worthy candidate to fill Twilights hooves, Discord was in his own thoughts of the matter, soon a proposal entered his mind.

“What about me?” He asked earning the groups attention.

“Discord we love ya’ll” Applejack said with slight annoyance. “ But now’s not the time for jokes”

“No I’m being completely serious” Discord replied. “ Why don’t I become the element of magic, I mean I’m usually hanging around Ponyville from time to time anyways since you guys released me”

“Discord…………..

“Just hear me out tia” He interrupted. “ Look I know I used to be quite a nuisance not to mention  I almost turned you five against each other during our first meeting, but for the first time in my life, I actually felt accepted. Despite everything that I’ve done , you all still gave me a second chance in life and even welcomed me as a friend. Back them before I met you and Luna Tia, I had no one, hell not even my own parents wanted anything to do with me. You two were the first friends that I ever had, but after I discovered my powers many years ago, I ended up taking you two for granted and nearly turned all of Equestria into my own personal playground, honestly I didn’t blame you one bit for imprisoning me in stone”

“But when you released me a few months ago, I was shocked at first thinking that you were only releasing me just to have me executed. But no, you walked up to me and gave me another chance to redeem myself. At first i was nervous, but I now realized that there was no need to. You all eventually forgave me and even saw me as a new friend, and I tell ya, I couldn’t remember the first time in my life where I felt loved by anyone else besides Luna and Tia, I finally realized what true friendships is all about and what it means to bring a smile to everyone’s faces without the need for trickery and magic, heh guess a little of you rubbed off on me as well Pinkie” A big grin formed on the party ponies face after hearing that.

“I know I might not be Twilight, and I still have a lot to learn about the meaning of the word friendship, But I want the chance to finally discover my true calling and to make something of myself. So please tia, give me a chance to become the element of magic, I promise I’ll do a good job, and to make Twilight proud”

Everyone in the room was in a complete state of shock after hearing the hybrid creatures recommendation, non of em were ever expecting those types of words to come out of his mouth. This made them fully realize that Discord was now a changed creature and that he was serious about learning more about the meaning of the word friendship, but while his magic was just as powerful as the royal sisters and the royal couple, they also wondered if it would be enough to fill Twilights place. Suddenly a small giggle could be heard, belonging to non other than the sun goddess.

“Hehe, I’m not much of a swearer but Damn! I never expected to hear those words come out of your mouth discord, you truly have reformed”. Celestia said earning a smile of appreciation from the Draconequus. “ Normally the positions are usually filled by ponies or pony like creatures, but I guess there is room for some exceptions. If you truly are serious about auditioning for the position of the magic element, that I shall give you a chance old friend, however. Unlike Twilights trial, yours shall be different , so before I ultimately give you a chance, I must know old friend. Can……you……handle……it?”

Discord was taken aback at first at the sun goddesses proposal, but as he looked around the room full of his new friends, he found each of them giving the hybrid creature looks of encouragement and silently hinting a him to go for it nod to give it a chance. After a moment of pondering , a look of determination formed on the Draconequus’s face as he stared straight into the sun goddesses eyes.

“I’ll do my best Tia!” He responded in a determined tone. “ I’ll take any test ya give me and pass with flying colors” He then gave a thumbs up as the group let out small giggles. 

“Very well then Discord” Celestia replied. “I shall accept your offer to become the element of magic, now let us discuss how your upcoming test/trial shall go down………………………







Meanwhile in Las Pegasus


Inside the local gym in the luxurious city of Las Pegasus, we find a stallion near the weights sweating up a storm as he continues to bench at an impressive level at about 400LB which earned him a lot of praise and attention from the many gym goers including some of the mares who swooned over his incredible strength. As he continued his set, various thoughts entered his mind during each grunt. Ever since the events that transpired in his Casino last year, ad revenues and business has been declining quite a bit with most of his performers and staff quitting, and a few of em even suing him for the damages that were brought on by not only them , but some of the occupants as well. The visions of the two unicorns whom humiliated him that day entered his thoughts as a large growl formed on his face the second he was nearing his 100 rep mark.

“Come on boss, just two more, ya got this!!!” One of his aids called out to him, which is what he did. And in about 5 seconds , the stallion finally reached his mark of 100 reps as a chorus of cheers erupted from the rest of the gym goers.

“Yeah nice job boss!!!!” Another of his aids cheered , the stallion then placed the large barbell back onto the rack as he sat up and wiped the sweat off of his face just as one of the mares in a yoga outfit walked up and handed him a bottle of water.

“That  was amazing Mr Gladmane!” She said . “  You’re so strongHere would you like one of my water bottles?”  The stallion looked at the mare accepting her little offering , and went even further by giving her a wink causing her to swoon even more.

“Thank you sweat cheeks” He said in a romantic like tone.

“Your welcome Gladmane hehe” The mare replied as she walked back over to her friends. “ OMG Gladmane winked at me!!!”

“Lucky!!!” One of the other mares said as the stallion took a long swig of his drink to re-hydrate himself.

“Damn Boss 400lb?!” His unicorn  aid said. “That's a new record! If ya keep lifting heavier weights like this, ya’ll could practically lift up the entire building with just one hoof!”  Gladmane however didn't respond to his aids compliment and instead responded with a small snarl. " Uh....what's wrong boss?"

Gladmane then shot a glare at the two aids sending small shivers down each of their spines. " Whats the matter? Whats the matter?! Oh I'll tell ya whats the matter fellahs, do you have any idea how business has been going these past few months after that stage incident last year? I lost at least half of my revenue and barely had any new consumers, and not only that, most of my performers and staff quit after what happened. Oh and you know what the best part is? I  ended up getting blamed for what happened and got my ass sued for a whole month!!!! And it's all thanks to that damn magician and her little purple lackey!"

"Well if it makes you feel any better boss" The earthpony aid replied. " Trixie's currently in jail, and that twilight girl was killed back in Ponyville"

"That's not good enough!!!" Gladmane shot back. " I wanted to be the one to make them suffer, after what they did to my precious casino, they don't deserve to get off easy like that. I tell ya if I had the ability to time travel, I'd strangle the both of em with my bare..............................." But as the stallion was about to continue on with his rant, an idea was quick to pop up in his head as a sinister glare began to form on his face to which his two aids were quick to notice.

"Ohohoho!!!!" The unicorn made said with a hint of excitement. " I know that face anywhere!"

"Hell yeah!" The earthpony one replied just as excited. " So what's the plan boss?"

Gladmane was silent for a second, his sinister smirk still visible till he finally spoke. " If I can't get my hooves on Trixie or even Celestia's precious student, then I'll just settle on someone whom they especially that Twilight ,care about the most" Gladmane said nothing more as he began to chuckle evilly as his aids joined in excited to see what kind of sinister plot their long time boss had in store for them.
> An old "friend" and a "happy" reunion
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A week later

Near the Canterlot city cemetery, we find Shining armor making his way through the gate towards his desired destination. After the meeting between the remaining elements and Discord, the stallion found a small bit of courage to finally visit the one destination that he was anxious about seeing. Ever since he started having the nightmares involving the former element of magic, he's been too afraid to step put into the cemetery without the fear of reliving those nightmares all over again. But thanks to his therapy sessions along with the boost he received from the meeting last week, the Stallion now found the courage to finally visit................

His sisters grave

After a short trek, passing through the many gravestones along the stone path. Shining Armor finally reached his younger sisters grave, the stallion took a deep breath as he stood only a few meters away from the gravestone which read.....

"Here lies Twilight Sparkle, a loving daughter, a bookworm, the  BLSFF, a star pupil, and a good friend"

The stallion tried his hardest to hold back his tears as he surveyed the words written on the gravestone, the thought of his little sister ending up here broke his heart , especially given that he was partially responsible. But Shining knew that he couldn't avoid this visit forever and it was about time that he finally face his fears, finally he took a short bow as he looked at his sisters gravestone. After another long breath, the stallion finally mustered up the courage to speak.

"Hey Twily" He said quietly. " Listen , I know I'm the last pony that you'd wanna see, and honestly I don't blame you. Plus you did make it perfectly clear when you appeared in the nightmares that I used to have, and I know that I have no right to call you by the nickname that I gave you" He then  took a short sigh and a pause before continuing. 

"Believe me sister, even though I've been taking therapy sessions every other Thursday since last month, I'm still reminded of how I treated you. I should have realized that there was something off with Cadence at the start as she would have never acted the way she did, hell I can even remember the last time I've heard Cadence swear.  I should have saw through that insects disguise, but I didn't, and because of my foolish mistake I lost not only you, but mom and dad as well. And honestly I don't blame them for being pissed off, I'd give anything to make amends and to bring you back, just so I could tell you how sorry I am"

"But I know that isn't possible, I was a foolish stallion twilight. If I hadn't said those hurtful words towards you and ban you from the wedding, you would have never turned to the dark side and team up with that Lunamoon mare. Twily I could sit right here all day just to tell you how sorry I am, but I know that's not gonna bring you back or erase what I've done. But I promise you Twilight, I'm gonna do whatever it takes to redeem myself and to move on"

"And the same goes for Celestia, Spike, and your friends. This might be hard for you to believe Twily, but they're also truly sorry for abandoning you and they wished so badly to have you back, I know you believe that friendship is just a waste of time . But not all friendships are perfect, and they have their ups and downs, and while it might seem that they don't care. But deep down they genuinely care for you. take a look at Comet tail, I know he only pretended to be your friend back in Highschool just to bully you, and to be honest I'm still pissed at him too for pulling that prank at you in the gymnasium"

"But he now regrets what he's done to you when you were kids, and he along with his friends wished so badly to take back everything and to make amends with you just like me and the others" Shining then took a long breath before finally getting up. " I know this won't mean much Twily, but I'm sorry for what I said to you, truly I am. And I promise to work my hardest to redeem myself and to make you proud, and hopefully I'll be able to win mom and dad back"

With that, the stallion gave a gentle pat to the mares gravestone before making his way out of the cemetery. As he exited out the main gate , he suddenly bumped into another stallion walking in the opposite direction as him.

"Oh sorry , didn't see you there" He apologized.

"Nah its cool bro" The stallion said. " I wasn't watching where I was going eith......wait Shining Armor?"

"Buck whithers?!" Shining armor replied in complete shock, as there standing right in front of him stood hos former rival and bully from Highschool Buck Whithers. Ever since the prom fiasco where the jocks bullying and cruel behavior was exposed, Shining armor hasn't seen him since. There was no doubt in his mind that the former jock decided to isolate himself from his former peers after his true colors were exposed, Shining armor then took a long look at the stallion and was surprised to see that he hasn't changed a bit , the only noticeable difference being his natural blond hair having grown slightly longer, and he was as ripped as his days on Canterlot highs Lacrosse team.  There was an awkward silence between the former schoolmates before Buck broke the ice.

"It's been a while" He said.

".......It sure has" Shining replied.  " So.....how have you been Buck?"

"I'm doing good" Buck said. " I'm actually started training to become Canterlots next Congresspony"

"Oh, that's great " Shining armor replied. " Hehe guess you decided to follow in your pops hoofsteps huh?"

"Well I pretty much had too" He said in a smug tone. " I mean I do have the looks for it so it's only fair that I make this my career"

"Hehe classic Whithers" Shining said in his head.

"So " Buck replied. " Word on the street is that your now the Prince of the Crystal empire and my former girlfriend is your Princess"

"Hehe yeah I am" Shining giggled. " Also I don't remember you and Cadence ever going out"

"Heh yeah I know, I was just kidding" Buck replied. " Besides, after how I acted back then, she's deserves better than me" The stallions expression then changed to a look of remorse as he began to think back at his time as a bully along with his friend Flank Thrasher. " Hey listen Shining, I'm sorry for how me and Thrash treated you and your friends back in Highschool, it wasn't cool. Honestly i deserved the comeuppance you gave during prom, cause I was nothing more than a bully and a terrible excuse for a stallion............." Bucks apology was soon interrupted as Shining armor placed a hoof on his shoulder.

"It's alright Buck" Shining said with a smile" I forgive you and Thrasher too, we were just kids back then, it's all in the past. Besides the old Buck Whithers would have never apologized , that right there is a sign that you have changed and are no longer the bully I knew back in school"

A warm smile formed on Bucks face as his former victim accepted his apology despite the hell he subjected him and his friends through during their teenage years " Thanks Shining armor, would it be cool if we started over .............and became friends?"

"I'd like that very much Buck" Shining replied with a smile, and then brought his former bully into a forgiving hug to which he was quick to return as a small tear fell from the stallions face after about a minute, the two stallion ended the embrace.

"BTW, I heard what happened to your sister, my deepest condolences for your loss " Buck said with a hint of sympathy.

"Thanks Buck" Shining armor replied " So aside from your upcoming election to be congresspony,  what else have you been up too Buck?"

"Well actually, I recently got engaged as well" Buck replied.

"Really?" Shining said slightly surprised. " That's great Buck! I'm happy that you managed to find someone yourself"

"Yeah me too bro" Buck replied. " I tell ya, Fleetfoot made me the happiest man in the world when she said yes"

A look of shock formed on Shining armors face after hearing the familiar name of Bucks fiance. " Wait Fleetfoot? Fleetfoot of the Ariel acrobatics team The Wonderbolts?!"

"Yup that's her alright" buck answered.

"Damn Buck, how'd ya get so lucky to hook up with a Celeb?" Shining armor asked.

"Hehe I asked myself the same thing bro" Buck replied and then flexed one of his biceps as a way of showing off. " I don't know whether it was my chiseled features, or the fact that I'm about to be a Congress pony?"

The purple maned stallion couldn't help but roll his eyes and chuckle a bit at his friends remark " Well I'm happy for ya Buck, I hope you two spend many wonderful years together. Speaking of which, hows Flank Thrasher doing these days?"

"Thrash is doing great too" Buck replied. " I actually hired him as my deputy chief, and in case your wondering, he's reformed as well. Also you'll never believe this..........he and your old buddy Gizmo are dating" Shining armors jaw dropped in shock after hearing that last statement.

"Wait WHAT?!" Shining said in shock " You mean Gizmo has been gay this whole time, as well as Flank Thrasher?! * Actually that kind of explains a lot*"

"Oh yeah bro it's true" Buck answered. " It's actually a pretty crazy story, when you had him cross dress to distract Flank while you made your move on Cadence, he couldn't stop thinking about him. That is until the day after Prom when Gizmo finally revealed himself to be a stallion in disguise, I legit though Thrash was gonna kick his ass for tricking him. But to my surprise, Flank wasn't attracted to Gizmo when he was in disguise, he was attracted to Gizmo himself. As it turns out he knew it was Gizmo this whole time and thought he looked cute in that dress you made him wear. Heh guess it took a nerd dressed as a chick to get my best friend to come out of the closet, as for Gizmo, he was a bit shocked at first to learn that his former bully was gay, but once they began college, he actually started to grow attracted to him as well. And they're still going out to this day" Shining armor remained both shocked and amazed not expecting one of his former bullies to be LGBT not to mention one of his best friends too, but he was never the less happy for the two of them.

"Well I'm happy for him, as well as Gizmo" shining armor replied with a smile. " I can already tell they're gonna be a happy couple, good for them"

"Amen to that" Buck said with a nod, and then took a second to notice the unicorns mane. "Say did you dye your mane? It looks great, what made you wanna change colors?" He then playfully tussled it causing Shining to giggle uncontrollably.

"Hehe lets just say I got inspired by someone special" Shining armor replied as he continued to laugh at his new friends playful behavior.







An hour later

We now find Shining Armor making his way towards the Canterlot train station, his mind was now filled with even more of a boost of confidence. With him finally mustering up the courage and making amends with his former bully, there was no doubt in the Stallions mind that things were starting to get significantly better for him. After saying goodbye to Buck, he kept a smile on his face throughout the long trek towards the train station, but as he made his way towards the entrance , he would soon find that his happy expression wouldn't last long. As he was about to open the door, someone else beat him too it as a unicorn stepped out of the terminal entrance. The purple haired stallions happy expression changed to a look of shock , as there standing right in front of him stood non other than his father.........

Crescent Moon Sparkle

The older stallion had a look of pure shock himself at the sight of his son, with the father and son having not seen each other for a few months ever since the falling out in Ponyville, neither of em knew how to respond to each other or if they even wanted to respond to each other. But after an awkward minute, Shining finally broke the ice.

"Dad?" Shining said.

"Son" Crescent said in a quiet tone. " It's been a while"

"Yeah.........it has" Shining armor replied. " How have you been?"

"Good" Crescent replied. 

"How's mom?" Shining asked. " I heard about the cancer, is she doing ok?"

"Your mothers doing fine" Crescent answered. " The doctors said that the signs are still a bit early, but she's still pulling through as they take test, I actually just got back from Applepaloosa to get her medications as that was the only medical wing that carried them" He then held up his medical container which housed his wife's medications.

"I see" Shining armor replied. " I'm happy moms doing ok, I hope she pulls through"

"Me too" Crescent said, there was another awkward silence for a moment  before Crescent finally spoke again. " I heard Cadence is pregnant, congratulations"

"Thanks pops" Shining said.

"So......how have you been?" Crescent asked.

"I've been doing pretty good, despite the fact that ya haven't written back to any of my apology letters or even have the decency talk to me stallion to stallion" Shining armor replied with a hint of sass earning him a small growl from his father who was quick to grab the young stallion leading him away from the train stations entrance as to not draw any attention, he then guided him towards a secluded area before finally replying to his son"

"Don't you talk to me like that, I'm your father !" The stallion boomed.

"Oh are you pops?" Shining shot back. " Cause you made it perfectly clear back in Ponyville that I was no longer your son! I screwed up alright?! And I don't blame you for being angry, but you could have at least heard me out first before shunning me for months!"

"Well can you blame me and your mother?!" Crescent replied. "After how you treated your sister, do you honestly expect me and your mother not to react?! She was you sister boy, your little sister. And you also have the nerve to dye your mane the same color as her?!  Even though you haven't seen each other for a while , she was still willing to risk her life to save you from that changeling queen, but you were too blind to see through her disguise. And to make matters worse, you banished Twilight from your own wedding when she was only trying to warn you and now look what's happening? And now look what's transpired, she turned over to the dark side and was this close to becoming the next Nightmare, all because......................"

"Of my stupid mistake I know!!!!!!" Shining interrupted. " You think I don't feel bad about what I did old man?! Yeah I messed up, and I should have reacted differently but I didn't. And now thanks to my stupid words, my little sister is gone and I'll never see her again.  I didn't want to do what I did back in Ponyville dad , but I didn't have a choice. She could have killed those three fillies if I hadn't stopped her, plus non of our words were able to get to her no matter how  sincere we were. It was pretty obvious that she was completely lost and no longer believed in friendship , and I can't blame her, me and the others were terrible towards her and we can't take back what we've done. But maybe I was wrong, maybe there was a chance that we could have reasoned with her and changed the outcome"

"But it's too late now, and even though I've been taking therapy sessions, my actions still haunt me to this day. And I have tried to apologize and to make amends with you and mom, if you guys seriously haven't forgiven me by now then I an done trying!!! I get that your sore at me dad , but would it have been too much trouble for you to at least hear me out first, especially given that I'm pretty much the only kid you have left aside from your third one"

Crescent was taken aback by that last comment made by his son as he raised a confused eyebrow. " Third one? What the hell are you talking about?"

"Oh come on dad!" Shining armor retorted. "Why don't you just admit it already? I've had my suspicious for quite a while and it wasn't just me, i know Twily was suspicious as well. You and mom have a third kid that you never told us about don't you............don't you?"

The older unicorn was in a state of shock after hearing his sons accusation, Shining figured that his pops would deny this claim believing it to be utter bullshit. But the look in the stallions eyes made it hard to believe that this accusation was false, after a moment of waiting for his father to give him an honest answer, the unicorn took a long deep breath before making his way towards a nearby bench, he then took a seat while ushering Shining armor to join him. Knowing that this would be his only way to get answers, Shining obliged and took a seat right next to Crescent. After another awkward minute, the matriarch of the Sparkle family finally spoke up.

"It was during me and your mothers senior year" He began.







Many years ago


Before our graduation from Canterlot state university, our class took a week long trip to Las pegasus to celebrate. Needless to say, your mother as well as our friends were overjoyed to spend the entire week at one of the most luxurious cities in all of Equestria. Once we arrived at the city, we were instantly mesmerized by the various shops, restaurants,  and many other attractions that loomed the entire city, Las Pegasus really was a city full of lights and fun all around. Throughout the week your mother and I enjoyed ever single tourist spot that we came across, and stuffed ourselves from the various restaurants that we came across and danced at some of the finest night clubs, in short we had the most incredibly romantic time, but that wasn't the end of it. 

On the final night before we were to head back home, your mother and I decided to officially lose our virginity. Once our classmates, teachers, and chaperones turned in for the night in their respected hotel rooms. Velvet snuck out to meet me in my room while my bunkmates gave me some privacy, especially given that they had similar objectives with their respected girlfriends. As soon as your mother entered, our night of passion officially begun, and I tell ya, we really did have the most romantic time imaginable, but alas that's where it all came crashing down.

After Velvet and I graduated and moved into our new apartment ready to start our new life together, she gave me the most shocking news imaginable..................she was pregnant. There was no deny that it was during our first time together from our trip last week, needless to say we panicked and were full of so much anxiety. You see, your mother and I weren't planning on getting married immediately after graduation, and being a couple of 21 year olds, we had absolutely no idea on how to raise a child. Velvet didn't want to go through an abortion as she would have never forgiven herself for doing so, and we didn't want to rush into a forced marriage. We had absolutely no idea on how to resolve this little mishap, that is until we came to a silverish lining.

You see a friend of our’s, who along with his girlfriend were actually planning on getting married after graduation, but there was a slight problem. You see his girlfriend was born with some reproduction issues and just found out that she wasn't able to have a kid which devastated her as she was looking forward to starting a family with her fiance. So one day when we came to visit them at their new home, we came to a proposition. After we explained our little situation and that we weren't ready to have a kid, we asked if they would like to adopt our soon to be son or daughter, and they were quick to say yes as their dream of starting a family would finally come true.







"To make a long story short, months later Velvet gave birth to our would have been daughter, just in time after our friends wedding, we then proceeded with the adoption papers and soon she was brought to her new home. I'd be lying if I said that we haven't regretted our decision , but we both knew it was for the best, cause like I said we weren't planning on getting married immediately and if something happened to that poor infant if we hadn't done what we did, I would have never forgiven myself"

As Crescent finished his story, Shining armor had various reactions to his fathers explanation. The thought of him having another sibling that he and twilight never knew of shocked the stallion to the core , especially given the thought that she's somewhere out there in Equestria with no knowledge that she has paternal siblings that she's never met or even knew existed.

"What happened to her dad?" He asked as Crescent got up from the bench.

"Last I heard from them, she moved out of her hometown years ago and became a school teacher somewhere north from here" Crescent answered. " But that's all I'm gonna tell ya, if ya wanna find out the truth, ya gotta put the pieces together yourself. Now I gotta go, I need to get these to your mother" Crescent then walked off leaving Shining on the spot, but not before turning around for one last time . " It was...................nice to see you again Shining"

"You too dad" Shining replied in an awkward tone, with nothing else to say the older unicorn made his way back home to meet up with his wife while shining armor remained entranced with the though of his mystery sibling living somewhere out there in Equestria, after a moment of collecting his thoughts, the stallion finally got up from the bench and made his way towards the train station, As he reached the entrance he stopped for a second as the thought of his other sister continued to play out in his mind, while he tried to fight off the urge, he knew that this was one mystery that he couldn't just ignore. And if he was to get one step closer to his closure, he had to get answer's.











"I gotta know"
> A visit to ponyville
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

An hour later, we find the hustle and bustle of Ponyvilles train station full of numerous staff and passengers whom eagerly wait for their next train to arrive to take them towards their respected destinations outside of town. But for one stallion however, this was his next stop instead of heading back home as he knew there was some important business to attend to first. After informing his wife about his little trip before heading back home with her blessing of course, he soon bought himself a ticket for both Ponyville and the train ride back towards the Crystal empire.

Soon after a long ride, the train soon reached its destination as it slowly entered the station terminal. After a long wheesh of steam, the coach doors opened as various ponies exited onto the platform while others whom eagerly waiting began entering in their place ready to head out to their respected destinations. Once his hoofs stepped off the coach, Shining armor took a long deep breath before making his way towards the stations exit.

Once he exited the station, he surveyed the two of Ponyville as numerous happy citizens were going about with their day. But for Shining armor, his mind was focused on one goal as his fathers words from earlier began to play out in his head............

"Last I heard from them, she moved out of her hometown years ago and became a school teacher somewhere north from here" 

With Ponyville being one of the well known towns just north of Equestria, he knew this had to be the right destination to where his supposed long lost sister resides.  As he trekked down town square, he began to question himself on whom his sister might be like or if she even want's anything to do with him especially given that she was literally given away to another couple when she was only an infant. He also wondered how'd she react once they meet, especially given that she wouldn't have known that she had a biological brother and sister that she never knew about until today.

As he continued to ponder to himself, he soon reach his destination, that being Ponyvilles renowned schoolhouse. The sight of the tall red building sent wonders into the stallion eyes, not from the looks of it, but the fact that his sister teaches there. Suddenly the sound of a bell rang caught his attention, and soon numerous foals and fillies exited the school house ready to start their weekend away from school. The stallion couldn't help but chuckle a bit as memories of himself happily exiting school to start the weekend when he was a foal played in his head. 

"Shining armor?" Came a voice which interrupted his thoughts, the stallion looked forward, and there stood three familiar fillies whom he's met before or should I say rescued before? Sweetie belle, Apple bloom, and Scootaloo stood in complete surprise, not expecting to bump into the same stallion who saved their lives last year from twilight's rampage. Shining armor was also surprised, not expecting to bump into the three fillies again as the memories of their last encounter played in his head. After what felt like an awkward minute, the stallion finally broke the ice.

"Uh hello kids" He said awkwardly. " It's ............been a while"

"Yeah it has" Scootaloo replied. " So uh.........how have you and Cadence been?"

"We've been doing good kids" He answered. " She's also currently pregnant ATM"

"Really? Congratulations!" Sweetie belle jumped in. " I'm sure your gonna be an amazing father sir"

"Hehe thank you sweetie belle" Shining replied. " Also don't call me sir, I'm 25"

"Sorry" The unicorn filly apologized. " If you don't mind me asking, what brings you here in Ponyville?" 

"Well...................." He began. " This might sound crazy, but I'm here to see your teacher, it's nothing serious, I just need to ask her an important question. Is she still is the schoolhouse?"

"Yes she is" Apple bloom said with a nod. " She usually stays behind for a bit after we leave for the weekend to tidy up her desk, so she should still be inside. But I advice you to hurry partner, as she won't be there for long"

"Oh .......ok thank you bloom" Shining replied.

"NP partner" Bloom said. " Oh and Shining armor? We're not mad at you for last year, don't get us wrong, we were completely shocked after hearing the truth about what went down at the wedding rehearsal. But we know you, Celestia, Spike, and our sisters didn't mean to hurt Twilight.  And we don't blame you for her death either, while that was a pretty drastic measure that you chose, but in a way, there was no other choice as it seemed like no words could have gotten through to twilight. While we miss Twilight dearly and what he did was wrong, we don't hate her, and we don't hate you either, cause again we know ya'll didn't mean to hurt her, and deep down , I'm sure Twilight knows you guys are truly sorry as well" 

A warm smile formed on the stallions face after hearing the fillies words, happy that there was no hard feelings towards him and the three fillies. " Well........thank you girls, I'm happy that there's no....."

"Hey! You guys coming or what?!" Came a voice causing the group to turn around, and there stood diamond Tiara and Silver spoon over the horizon anxiously waiting for the trio. " You know me and Silver spoon can't drink 5 milkshakes at once"

"Hold your horse feathers ya'll we're coming!" Bloom called out with a giggle. " Sorry bout that Shining, forgot that we were to meet our friends at Sugarcube corner after school"

"No worries Bloom" Shining replied. " I won't keep you three, go on ahead, and have a good weekend"

"Thank you Shining, you too" Sweetie belle said, and with that , the trio walked over towards their two rich friends ready to start their weekend away from school. Shining Armor kept his smile as he watched the five friends walk away towards Sugarcube corner, It soon vanished after the realization came to his head that he had business to attend to. With that, he proceeded towards the schoolhouse to confront the teacher whom was still inside.

A minute later, the stallion was now inside the building strolling along the hall way as he made his way towards his desired classroom. After asking the janitor on where the mare he was seeking resided, he informed the stallion that she taught in room A4, and he soon reached his destination as there stood the entrance to the classroom where Bloom and her friends resided with A4 engraved on the door. Noises could be heard from the other side indicating that she was still inside, he then proceeded to knock on the door.

"Come in" Came a voice from the other side, Shining then proceeded inside after receiving conformation. He then opened the door and made his way inside, and there stood the teacher of said  classroom Miss Cheerilee calmly reorganizing her desk after a long day of teaching before heading home herself, as she was about to finish up, she was soon met by the stallion whom knocked on the door.

" Oh hello" She greeted. " What can I do for...............wait, your Twilight's older brother ? Shining armor was it?"

"Yes that's me" He replied while nervously scratching the back of his head.

"Hehe I knew you looked familiar" Cheerilee said. " Gosh, I don't know whether to shake your hoof or bow down to you?"

"There's no need for that" Shining denied. " I know I'm the current prince , but there's no need to be so formal"

"Of course, of course" Cheerilee nodded. " My apologies Shining Armor................so what brings you here?" 

Shining hesitated for a moment , but he knew there was no turning away now as he's already this far. " Actually, I'm here to see you" Hearing his answer caused the mare to raise an eyebrow.

"For me?" She asked. " What business do you have with me?"

"It's something that involves a little mystery that's been going on with my family before I was even born" Shining answered. " I know this might sound crazy, but I think It's you whom my father was referring too, again I know this might sound crazy, but with your permission Miss Cheerilee, could you give me a few minutes of your time to see if my theory is true or not? And if it's not, I'll leave" 

Cheerilee was speechless after hearing the stallions statement, but her curiosity kicked in at the thought of her being the cause of a certain mystery involved with the Sparkle family, she gave a short nod before finally replying. " I see, ok shining armor I'll hear you out. Wait here for a second" She then exited the room for a moment, then a few minutes later, she reentered with two cups of coffee that she got from the teachers lounge. Thinking that this was gonna be a pretty long conversation, the young school teacher decided to bring a little rocket fuel to her guest. After handing him his cup, she ushered him towards a nearby desk while she took a seat near the opposite. Once they were seated, Cheerilee ushered Shining to proceed with his explanation which he was quick to do so.







5 minutes later

"And so yeah, that's why I'm here" He said. " Long story short, after my father informed me about my sisters proposed location, I immediately took a train here to get answer's. But I may have been wrong as your not the only mare teacher at this school, I hope I didn't waste your time Miss Cheerilee?" 

There was a short silence as the stallion took a sip of his coffee once he finished his little tale, Cheerilee was visibly shocked a bit not expecting to have been speculated at being a long lost sibling of Shining armor and her late friend. Shining noticed this feeling slightly guilty that his accusation towards the mare was false and that he got the wrong teacher, but the mares response soon changed his opinion.

"Heh, I knew this day would come eventually" She responded surprising the stallion, not expecting to hear this answer from her. " But I wasn't expecting it to happen in my classroom of all places"

"Wait.............you knew?" He replied.

"Well" Cheerilee said" Yes and no, I actually found out the truth when I was 18. Before I went off to college, my parents told me the truth, not just about my mother inability to get pregnant due to reproduction issues, and my biological parents giving me away without hesitation. I was both shocked and intrigued at the fact that I've been adopted this whole time and I've always wondered whom my real parents were, but unfortunately they didn't tell me whom it was, all they said was it was some old friends from highschool. Damn to think all this time I was related to one of my friends this whole time? Man talk about a big reveal"

"Indeed" Shining replied. " So............are you mad?"

"I'm more shocked actually" Cheerilee replied. " I mean don't get me wrong , I was a bit upset at the fact that my real parents gave me away and that I was adopted this whole time. But I hold no ill towards my adopted family, cause if it wasn't for their kindness and support, I wouldn't be where I am today.................If you don't mind me asking, how are my real parents doing these days?"

Shining armor hesitated for a moment, but soon gave the mare her answer. " It's pretty complicated actually, ever since the wedding rehearsal incident, our relationship has been a bit rocky for a while as they blame me for Twilight's demise but I'm still trying to patch things up with them. And I also found out that mom has Cancer, but luckily it's still in the early stages so its nothing serious "for now" as the doctors continue to test her"

"Aw I see" Cheerilee replied. "Well I hope she pulls through, no pony deserves a fate like that, and believe me I have a cousin who's currently fighting the same ailment as well" There was a long silence towards the "siblings" as both of them finished up the last of their coffee, after a moment, Cheerilee finally broke the ice. " Well............thank you for this information Shining armor, it felt pretty good to finally have answers towards my adopted family"

Shining armor gave a nod, happy to have both answered the mares question, but also to have solved his own mystery as well.  "It was no problem at all Cheerilee" He then got up from his desk " Well I should probably head back to the train station, don't want to keep the misses waiting"

Cheerilee chuckled a bit at the stallions statement. " No worries I understand, thank you for telling me this Shining armor"

"It was no problem at all Cheerilee" He replied. " Well I should head out, have a nice day"

"You too Shining armor" Cheerilee said, and with nothing more to say, the stallion waved one last goodbye before exiting the classroom leaving the mare (or should I say his sister?) in the room with her mind completely blown after finding out the truth about her adoption for so long.







Later that night

Back in the Crystal empire, we find the royal couple inside their temporary home having a cup of tea together as they sat comfortably on their imported sofa. After getting home, shining armor told his wife everything, and to make a long story short, the alicorn was baffled at the fact that she has another sister in law that she herself didn't even know about and that it was one of Twilight's friends back in Ponyville to be precise.

"Damn" She said. " So Cheerilee is your long lost sister? As Pinkie would say, that is one big doozy. But I must ask, how is that even possible Shiny?"

"Not everyone in the Sparkle family are unicorns babe" Shining replied earning a nod from his wife.

"I see, I see" Cadence replied, she then took it upon herself to place her hoof onto his in a comforting manner. " Well.....if Cheerilee is your sister, we'll find a way to pull through my love. But the question is, do you think twilight knew all along?"

"I doubt It Cadence" Shining said. " Twilight may have been the smartest gal in town, but this isn't really something that you can put two and two together immediately"

"That's also understandable" She replied. " So what now shiny? Are you gonna get the three of em together?"

"I don't really think Cheerilee is emotionally ready to meet them, especially given the fact that they gave her away for adoption" Shining armor answered. " Me and dad are still working things out ourselves, and with moms cancer diagnosis, i don't wanna cause anymore stress with the family"

Cadence gave a nod of understanding at her husbands statement. " That's relatable my love" She then planted a gentle kiss on her husbands cheek. " Like I said, we'll figure this out somehow"

"I hope so luv" Shining armor replied as he nuzzled his pregnant wife in a loving manor.








I hope so
> Diagnosis and a stallions revenge Warning : contains inappropriate touching and rape attempt
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A few weeks later

Days have passed since Shining's little journey of self discovery, and suffice to say, the stallion came back with various types of outcomes. with him finally making amends with his former bully, finally mustering the courage to visit Twilight's grave,  reuniting with his father after months of seclusion, but the biggest surprise to the stallion was the fact that he along with Twilight had a long lost sister that they've never known about, that being Miss Cheerilee.

The news of this still shocked the stallion, and the fact that his folks kept this a secret from him and Twilight for so long surprised him even more. But despite this, the stallion was partially happy to have some sort of closure after finding out the truth, but he'd be lying if he still felt awkward about this news. Like how would he and Cheerilee even react to each other if they bumped into one another soon? And how would she react if she ever crossed paths with her biological parents? Or if Twilight knew about it all along, given that she literally lives in the same town as Cheerilee.

All these questions continued to play on in the stallions head, after all , it's not everyday that you discover that you've had a long lost siblings that your folks never told you about. As he sits at his kitchen table calmly eating lunch with Cadence, Shining armor continues to wonder about whats to happen next after these recent events that transpired , after learning the truth about his long lost sibling, who knows what else the stallions gonna discover along the way on his path of redemption.

His thoughts were soon interrupted by a knock from the front door earning the couples attention . " I'll get it Cadence"  After wiping his mouth with a napkin, the stallion made his way towards the living room. He soon made his way to the front door and began unlocking it, but as he proceeded to open the door, the stallion got a big surprise as there standing right in front of him stood non other than his folks, both of whom had blank stares written on each of their faces. While he already encountered his father a few weeks ago, seeing his mother was quite a surprise to Shining armor.

After Crescent informed his son that Velvet had been tested for cancer, seeing her now once again surprised the stallion. While his father stated that they were still taking test and that she only had early stages, seeing her now made the stallion question it especially given the fact that she's wearing a cap, and looks as if she hasn't been sleeping as much. The stallion continued to look in shock at both of his folks until the matriarch finally broke the ice.

"Hello again son" He said.

"Mom......dad" Shining said nervously. " It's uh.....nice to see you guys again"

"I'd say the same thing, if this was not a serious visit" Crescent replied. " Listen son, we need to talk to you about something, it's important can we please come in?"

"Sure pops" Shining said. " Come on in, me and Cadence were actually having lunch, would you like some food during our conversation"

Velvet shook her head at her sons request " No thank you Shining, we just ate, and we don't plan on staying long" The couple then proceeded inside the royal couples home as Shining's brain continued to process on whats to transpire during this upcoming conversation just as he closed the front door.







" Terminal cancer?" Shining said in a shocked tone . " Are you sure dad?"

The older stallion nodded his head at his sons response. " Yes, we got the results this morning"

Shining was in a complete state of shock after hearing the news of his mothers cancer and the fact that it's been revealed as terminal cancer, as he stared at his cup of tea, various questions plagued his mind as he pondered his mothers current status. " How bad is it?"

" It's not good I'll give you that son" Crescent replied. " It's already started to spread, and I'm afraid the special medicine she's been prescribed isn't enough to fight it off. But there's some good news, they said that they should be able to treat it by surgery if we can find a blood donor before the end of the week. But I'm afraid there's some bad news to it as well"

"I'll need someone with A positive blood in order to receive the treatment" Velvet jumped in. " And I'm afraid your father isn't A positive"

"Indeed" Crescent replied. " We've started asking other family members including your grandparents, but non of them are compatible either. We're starting to ask some some of our friends as well to see if any of them are A positive, and that's why we're here as well. I know your not A positive son and I know things have been.............awkward between us these past few months, but I must ask if you know anyone who's A positive?"

"Not that I know of dad" Shining replied. " The only one I can know of is my old friend Gaffer, but unfortunately he moved to Baltimare after graduation to pursue his acting career"

"I'd volunteer if I could Mr Sparkle" Cadence jumped in. " But unfortunately I'm not A positive myself, plus given my state it wouldn't be safe for me to have blood transfusion surgery without it effecting the baby"

"That's perfectly fine Cadence, we wouldn't want to put you through that" Velvet replied and then turned back towards their son. " Are you sure there's no one else you can think of Shining?"

"Nothings coming to mind mom, I'm sorry" Shining said in a sad tone. " But I could ask around the troops and housekeepers to see if any of them are compatible"

"And I could ask my Aunt's and even Discord to see if any of them are A positive" Cadence replied.

The older unicorn gave a nod of understanding before taking a long sip of his tea, finishing the last drop. " That would do just fine you two" He and velvet then got up from the table. " Well...........thank you for hearing us out son, we appreciate it"

"It's no problem pops" Shining replied with a nod. " And don't worry, I'm not gonna rest until we find a suitable donor for you mom" Hearing this caused a smile to form on the mares face. " I'll ask around the troops to see if any of them are A positive, and cadence will ask her aunt's , Discord , and the housekeepers. We'll write to you guys if we manage to find someone"

"Thank you son" Crescent replied. " We deeply appreciate it, again we're gonna check in with some friends to see if any of them are compatible. If you and Cadence manage to find something out, please let us know immediately" Shining Armor nodded at his fathers request, just as the couple began to make their way out the front door not wanting to take anymore of their time. As Shining watched his folks leave the house, he began to wonder whom might be compatible enough to help treat his mothers terminal illness before the week is up all while praying that he or even his father manage to find someone in time.







Later that day


We now find the royal couple taking a stroll through the city to clear their thoughts, after receiving the news that Velvet was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Shining Armor continued to be in a state of shock after receiving this news, after the conversation a few hours ago, the stallion began to ponder on whom he or Cadence might know who's blood is compatible enough for his mother to proceed with the treatment. But the fact that they only had until the end of the week to find a blood donor only made the stallions anxiety increase, if he and cadence didn't find a donor in time, who knows what would become of the poor mare?

"How are you feeling Shiny?" Cadence asked her worried husband.

"Honestly babe, I don't even know" He replied. " I mean, I haven't seen mom and dad in a while, but the moment we reunite, I find out that my mother has terminal cancer? And whats worse, I only have until the end of the week to find a donor, who knows if I'll even be able to find someone by then? And even if I do, will they even want to go through with the procedure?”

“I know Shiny, i know” Cadence replied. “ But we’ll figure this out I promise, like i said I’ll see if any of my aunt’s and discord are compatible as well as the housekeepers. Plus I’m sure one of the guards might be A positive as well, we’ll save your mother my love, i promise”

“I hope so babe” Shining sighed. “ I already lost Twily, the last thing i want is to lose my own…………..

The stallions words were cut short when a loud groaning sound could be herd through a nearby alley, suddenly a unicorn popped out of the alleyway clenching his bleeding side causing the couple to rush over to see whats up.

“Oh my goodness!!!” Cadence said. “Are you ok sir?”

“Ugh, not really” The unicorn groaned. “ Some jackass stabbed me and jacked my wallet”

“Which way did he go?” Shining asked.

The unicorn pointed towards the same alley . “ He went that way………..UGH!!!!”

“Shining , go get him” Cadence encouraged.

“Cadence………

“Don’t worry, I’ll tend to his wound” She interrupted. “ Go catch that mugger. That alley’s a dead end anyways, so he shouldn’t be able to go far. Now go”

Shining Armor  gave a reassuring nod before proceeding towards the alley, the stallion rushed forward to catch and apprehend the mugger before he got away. But as Cadence stated a few second ago, this Alleyway leads to a dead end so unless the muggers a unicorn who dabbles in teleportation magic, there’s no way he’d be able to get away. As he rounded a bend, he slowly proceeded towards the area where the unknown mugger might be.

“Alright, you have no where to go!” He called out. “ This is Shining Armor, captain of the Crystal empire royal guard as well as the current prince of said empire. So come on out with your hooves up and don’t try any funny business!” Shining armor then took a peak through the corner , but to his surprise, there was no one in sight which surprised the stallion as there was nothing else in this area aside from a brick wall and a trashcan that was even too small to hid in as well as a pile of trash.

“What the hell?” He said to himself. “ What’s going on here? This alleys a dead end, there’s no where for this pony to go, unless he’s either a Pegasus or a…………………….” The stallions words were cut short as a sharp pain enveloped on the side of his forehead as a crowbar made contact with him causing the unicorn to collapse on the ground with a loud thud, he got a second to survey a dark figure who’s appearance was all groggy from his blow before going unconscious.







The stallions vision began to return as he felt the sharp pain on the side of his forehead from the crowbar earlier, he struggled to regain his vision and conscious as he surveyed the room we was at. After what felt like an eternity, shining finally gained his vision back as se surveyed the area, only to find himself in a large hotel room. He tried to move , but found himself tied to a lounge chair with metal chains, but what cause his eye the most, stood his pregnant wife bound and gagged to a bed struggling to get out herself, much to the stallions horror as he began to wonder what was going on? But he would soon get his answer as the unicorn from earlier alongside an earth pony stallion with looks of pure malevolence written on each of their faces.

“Ah good your awake” The unicorn said, and then proceeded to rub his side and lick the red liquid that got caught in his hoof “ The ole using ketchup as a stab wound trick, works every time, heheheh”

“Oh and don’t bother trying to use magic “your majesty” The earthpony said in a mocking tone. “ We strapped dispersion bands on both you and your wife’s horns, so you two ain’t going anywhere”

Shining Armor began to struggle a bit, but unfortunately wasn’t able to break lose from his chains. “ UGH! Why are you two doing this?! Me and my wife haven’t done anything to you, just let us go. Plus you should know that kidnapping both royalty and a guard a serious offense”

This only earned him a chorus of giggles from the duo until one of em spoke up. “ You think we’re scared of that? Nah, once we’re done with ya, we’re gonna catch the next train out of here before anyone even comes to look for us”

“And to answer your second question” The unicorn replied. “ We don’t want anything from ya, it’s our boss who has a bone to pick with ya”

“And who might your boss be , if I may ask?” Shining Armor growled.

“Why don’t you ask him yourself?” The earthpony replied. “We’re all set boss, come on it!”

“Excellent” Came a voice , and soon a stallion emerged from the restroom donning an expensive looking bathrobe along with a glass of wine in hoof as well, Shining armor and Cadence stared in shock as the mysterious ponies appearance was now fully visible. And there stood non other than the owner of the resort/casino in Las Pegasus…….Gladmane who had a look of pure lust and evil written on his face.

“Hehehe, it’s nice to finally make your acquaintance “Your majesty” He said with a sinister tone.

“Gladmane?” Shining said in shock. “ Why are you here?”

The stallion took a long swig of his wine before responding . “ Oh it’s quite simple Shining Armor, I’m here to seek a little something called……….revenge”

“Revenge?” Shining replied while raising an eyebrow. “ What the hell have we ever done to you?”

“ Not you” Gladmane answered. “ That damn sister of yours, ever since she and her little friend humiliated me back in Las Pegasus and sent me in a coma. The profits at my resort/casino started to plummet, many of my performers and employees quit, visitor numbers have gone down, and to make matters worse, I ended up getting blamed for all of it and got my ass sued by so many ponies who were quote on quote “ traumatized” over said events. Oh sure I still have a few of my fans and supporters, but what your sister and that damn Lunamoon chick still haunts me, and even better, some of my comrades still laugh behind my back about that whole incident!"

Gladmane then took a moment to compose himself before continuing. " So I figured, if I couldn't take revenge on those two, then I'll go after those they care about the most. Once I'm done with you two, I'm gonna go ahead and take care of her former friends and maybe pay her parents a "visit" 

"Gladmane please, listen to me" Shining says in hesitation. " Look I'm sorry for what my sister did to you, and I don't blame you for being angry, I was mainly the cause of her and Trixie's rampage last year. But please I'm begging you, this isn't gonna make what they did to you go away, if anything please take me instead but let Cadence go"

This statement only earned him an evil chuckle from the stallion whom proceeded to remove his bathrobe. " Oh no Shining Armor, it's too late for that. The damage your sister did is already gone, and now it's time for some long awaited............." He then got onto the bed and crawled towards the bound and terrified alicorn. "Payback"

"Stop, don’t hurt her she's pregnant!” Shining shouted.

"She's pregnant huh?" Gladmane said, and then proceeded to lustfully lick the mares stomach. " Even better, I always wondered what it'd feel like to do a pregnant mare, and your about to get a front row seat kid”

“You son of a…….” But before Shining Armor could say anything else, Gladmane two aids held his head at an angle that forced him to concentrate on what he has planned for the princess of love.

“That’s it fellahs” He said. “ Keep him steady, I want him to get a good view of the action” He then proceeded to go further with his assault by licking the mares face as tears began to form on her face. “ Oh yeah, I’m about to give you a fun time princess.” He then began to lick the tears that fell from her eyes. “ Mmmm the taste of fear, I love it. Go one baby, struggle for me, it makes it much more fun”

Shining Armor growled in riotous fury at the sight of his wife getting molested by the horny stallion. His aids laughed maniacally as the stallion continued to struggle in an attempt to break free, but to no avail.

“Yeah give it to her boss!!!” The unicorn aid cheered.

“But let us have a turn, don’t hog that fine ass for yourself” The earthpony aid replied.

“Oh don’t worry boys” Gladmane said maniacally as he continued to lustfully lick the sobbing mare. “ You’ll get your turn, I just gotta make sure she’s ready for all three of us” Cadence’s sobs increased more and more as the stallion licked her even more, and whats worse Shining armor was forced to survey the whole thing.

Gladmane then began to lick further and further down her body until he reached her lower regions as the mare continued to struggle and sob. “ Oh yeah, this is my favorite part, wonder what an alicorn taste like?” Cadence let out a loud cry as she felt the stallions wet tongue lick her in her most sensitive area, and the fact that she was pregnant made it a whole lot worse.

“Get off her!!!!!” Shining armor cried out as he struggled and struggled even more as the aids continued to laugh and cheer for their boss, the purple maned stallion gritted his teeth in fury at the sight of his wife continuing to get molested by Gladmane. “Get off, get off, get off…………..”

But unknown to them, the dispersion band that rested on the stallions head began to crack and split a bit as a mysterious energy began to envelop the angry stallion.

Cadence cries became louder and louder , with the poor mare wishing that this all joust a bad dream. Gladmane  then released his tongue from the mares lower area leaving a trail of saliva behind along with her sensitive fluids as he laughed Evily. “ Oh yeah, nice and wet, just how I like em” Gladmane then sat up slightly as he began to massage his own lower regions, ready to go further in his assault much to the fury of Shining Armor who got angrier and angrier. “ Here comes the main event boys, watch and be amazed!!!!!”

“Woooooooooooooo! Get her good boss!” The earthpony aid cheered.

“Give her more babies boss!” The unicorn aid cheered alongside his comrade.

“Get ready for the Gladmane special sweetheart!” Gladmane replied as Cadence struggled and sobbed more and more knowing that the stallion was only inches away from sticking his stallion hood inside of her, but before his tip could make any contact with her, he felt a short rumble coming from the room surprising the stallion. At first he thought there was an earthquake, until he peered over towards shining Armor, and his eyes widened in shock as the stallion had a look of pure fury as the veins in his forehead popped as a dark like aura surrounded the stallion slightly terrifying Gladmane two aids .

“I………………said……………………GET OFF HER!!!!!!!!!!!” Shining Armor roared as dark tendrils emerged from his horn destroying his dispersion band and his chains in the process, the tendrils were quick to grab both Gladmane and his aids and violently slam the trio against both the wall and a nearby book shelf knocking them unconscious. 

The stallion breathed heavily as the tendrils along with the dark aura began to disperse, after a minute, the stallion finally regained his composure as he took one final long breath. He then opened his eyes to find Gladmane and his aids on the ground knocked out but not dead, he looked at his hooves in shock all while wondering where that mysterious dark power came from, but his focus was on his sobbing wife. He quickly ran up to the bed and used his magic to remove her restraints. Cadence was quick to collapse on her husbands shoulder who was quick to wrap his arms around her as she sobbed loudly, thankful that it was finally over, before the horny stallion could take advantage of her even more.

Just then , the door busted opened and soon a trio of royal guards along with Princess Celestia entered the room. The sun goddess surveyed the scene along with the unconscious stallions on the ground, but her mane focus was on her niece who was still sobbing on the bed with her husband continuing to comfort her. She then rushed over and joined the hug.

“Cadence, oh my stars are you alright?!” Celestia asked in a worrying tone.

Cadence let out a small sniffle before replying back to her aunt. “ Yes……I’m alright auntie, Shining managed to stop Gladmane before he……..he……………….”

“Shhhhhhhhhh, It’s ok, it’s ok, your safe now” Celestia said in a soothing tone. “ He’s not gonna hurt anyone ever again. Are you alright too Shining Armor?”

“Yes I’m alright your majesty” He replied, after a minute the trio got up from the bed as Cadence finally calmed down. “ How did you know we were in trouble?”

“Actually……….” Celestia began. “You can thank your friend for that” Then suddenly , a familiar face entered the room shocking both Shining armor and Cadence.

“Buck?!” They said in unison.

“ Sup fellahs?” The stallion greeted, and soon found himself wrapped into a hug by the couple. “Are you guys ok?”

“Yes we’re ok Buck” shining said as the group hug dispersed. “ But how did you know we were in trouble Buck, also what are you doing in the Crystal empire?”

“Well actually” Buck began. “ I was here to discuss some political business with one of the senators here for my campaign , but as I was about to head on over to his office, I saw you and Cadence getting dragged away by a couple of stallions. A part of me wanted to rush over and strop em myself, but i knew better than to pick a fight when I’m outnumbered. So I rushed over to receive help from the royal guards, and to my surprise Celestia was here as well to check up on you two. and luckily one of those chumps left a receipt from the hotel that they we’re holding you hostage, so it was easier to track you guys down” 

The couple was surprised after hearing bucks statement, with the two of em relieved and grateful that he along with Celestia came to their aid before anything bad happened to them. 

“Well thanks Buck, we appreciate it we really do” Cadence replied. “ And by the way, Shiny told me everything, and I forgive you too”

A smile formed on the stallions face happy that his former crush forgave him. “ thanks Cadence”  But his expression changed when Celestia and one of the guards (whom he was familiar with ) walked up to him.

“So Buck Whithers” She began. “ Your all grown up now, you behaving yourself?”

“Of course your majesty” Buck gulped nervously. “ I’m a changed man honestly, I’m truly sorry for how i treated your niece in the past”

But to his surprise, the sun goddess let out a giggle at his response. “ It’s quite alright Whithers, it’s all in the past, if my niece and her husband can forgive you, than so can I”

Another smile formed on the stallions face, happy that the sun goddess forgave him as well, he then turned his attention towards the guard who loomed over him. “ I’m sorry for nearly crushing you with the throne door, that was uncool of me, I didn’t know you were there honestly”

The guard let out a long sigh at the stallions response. “ Your lucky forgiving someone so easily runs in my family kid” He then turned towards the sun goddess. “What are your orders Celestia?”

The sun goddess surveyed the unconscious Gladmane and his aids who laid on the floor with only minimal bruising from Shining’s attack earlier. “  They don’t seem to be in any critical condition, but we should have them looked over just in case. But when they gain consciousness, they are to be brought back to Canterlot and incarcerated, but not before a trial. Go mon ahead and take these three to the Crystal medical wing on the double”

“Yes your majesty!” The guards solutes in unison before grabbing Gladmane and his two aids , and proceeded to carry them out of the room. Shining Armor on the other hand looked down on his hooves as the memory of that mysterious dark power from earlier began to replay in his mind.







“That power” He said to himself. “What was that?”
> Bonus: Deleted scene
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Heres a deleted scene that i was originally gonna add onto the current chapter, but decided not to as it would have made it way too long







“UGH my head” Gladmane groaned as he began to compose himself. “Just what the hell was……………” But before he could say anything else, the stallion and his aids who have also regained consciousness found themselves face to face with not only a trio of royal guards, but the sun goddess herself, who look all kinds of furious. “ Oh uh……….Princess Celestia, it’s ……an honor to finally meet you , your even more beautiful in per…………

“SHUT UP!!!” Celestia interrupted sending shivers down the trio’s spines. “ I have a mind to set you ablaze after what you tried to do to my niece and her husband, but I’ll let the court decide your punishment. Your so damn lucky my sister isn’t here cause she wouldn’t be as merciful as I “ She then turned her attention towards Gladmane two aids who had nervous sweat all over their faces.

“So this is where you two have been hiding, if I had known you’d get rid of your guard uniforms and high tail it to Las Pegasus to escape your punishment, I would have retrieved you sooner” 

Cadence raised an eyebrow after hearing her Aunt’s statement. “ Wait, you know these two auntie?”

“indeed” Celestia replied. “ Chris Peterson and Lang Magnum, these two were royal guard who have been on the run for a couple of years after sexually assaulting a few of my female guards and even getting some of them pregnant. And they thought they were smart by escaping their punishments by ditching their armor’s and start over in Las pegasus under the wing of this idiot. Not to mention they’re also responsible for giving me that ridiculous nickname “SunButt”.

One of the crystal guards tried his hardest not to giggle, lest to feel the wrath of the sun goddess.

“Well for what it’s worth Celestia, you are pretty thicc, can you blame us?” Lang replied.

“SHUT UP!!!” Celestia boomed shutting the stallion up completely. “ Take these idiots back to Canterlot to await their trials.

“No please, I can’t go to prison!” Gladmane said frantically as one of the guards grabbed him. “ Do you have any idea what they do to rich guys there?!”

“Well you should have thought about that before molesting my niece, not to mention kidnap royalty which is a very serious offense in Equestria” Celestia replied. “ Get these idiots out of my sight”

“Yes your majesty” The crystal guards said in unison and proceeded to drag the trio away.

“You can’t do this to me, no prison can hold Gladmane ya here me?!!!!!!” Gladmane shouted as he was being escorted away.

“Lang?”  Chris said nervously.

“Yes Chris?” Lang replied.

“I heard about prison” Christ said.

“Yeah?” Lang replied and waited a few seconds for his friends reply.

“It ain’t fun!” Chris said frantically before being escorted out of the room alongside Lang.
> Visiting Lulamoon, and good news
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Inside the Canterlot City state penitentiary or CCSP for short, we find Trixie Lulamoon sitting patiently inside the visiting chambers , along with other inmates whom also received visitations from  friends, family, and lovers. Ever since the wannabe magician received her 35 year sentence, she's been rather quiet lately. She no longer bragged as much as she used to, and what's even more shocking is the fact that she no longer talks in the third person anymore, which was quite uncommon for the magician, but most just brushed this off thinking that this change was for the better.

As she sat quietly at her booth awaiting her soon to be visitor, while also surveying the other inmates who were conversing with their respected visitors, she began to wonder who would even want to visit her considering what she's done last year.  At first she figured that it would either be one of the main 5 or even Celestia, but considering that they mostly blame her for Twilight's downfall, they were definitely out of the question. She also had a hunch that it could be Tirek with a plan to bust her out, but given that he relocated his shop , that was out of the question as well. But the young magician would soon get her answer as the entrance door swung open indicating that another visitor was entering.

Trixie's eyes opened in shock as there stood non other than Shining Armor, the magician was shocked to see the stallion whom she encountered not one but two times last year. Curiosity got the best of her as she began to wonder what he's doing here? After putting the stallion and his wife through a lot during their last encounter, there was no way he'd wanna visit her, lest it was to criticize or berate her for her actions towards various lives including Shining's sister. 

Suddenly the stallion received an all clear from the warden and proceeded towards the magicians table, Trixie was more than surprised to see the stallion walking towards him which answered her question completely. Her anxiety and fear increased as Shining Armor was now at her table and proceeded to take a seat, with the stallion now face to face with the unicorn, Trixie surveyed his expression and was surprised to find not a single sign of anger or resentment, and instead Shining's expression was blank and calm.

After a minute of awkward silence, Shining Armor took a deep breath before finally speaking . " Hello Trixie"

Trixie was all but surprised at the calm tone coming out of the stallions voice, but never the less responded back to him. " Uh....hello Shining Armor" There was another awkward silence before Trixie spoke again. " I must say, this is quite the surprise, I wasn't expecting you out of all ponies to visit me"

"Indeed" Shining Armor replied. " Not gonna lie, your defiantly the last mare I'd want to see after what you've done to my sister and the destruction you caused. But this was a suggestion from the therapist that I've been seeing, that I should come face to face with you as a way to give me closure or something like that"

Trixie couldn't help but give a nod of agreement. " I see, well that's pretty understandable. ya gotta face your inner demons sooner or later , otherwise they'd stay with you for the rest of your life"

"Indeed" Shining replied.

"So aside from that, how are you and Cadence doing?" Trixie asked. " I heard what Gladmane tried to do to you two a few days ago"

"We're ok" Shining Armor replied. " Luckily an old friend along with Celestia came by and rescued us, and thankfully the baby was ok as well"

"That's good to hear" Trixie said. " Though I'd be lying if i said that I wasn't mainly the cause of his little revenge plot, sorry about that"

"It's fine" Shining replied. " TBH I can't really blame you and Twilight for doing that to him, Gladmane is a bit of a asshole, hell me and Cadence did get ripped off a bit at his resort/casino during our pre wedding trip last year, he didn't even offer us a refund from one of his malfunctioned slot machines. Luckily he won't be able to hurt or rip off ponies anymore after his trial, and after what he tried to do, his resort/casino's gonna need a new owner"

"Hopefully someone who'd let everyone win" Trixie said earning a small giggle from the stallion.

"Anyways , back on topic" Shining Armor replied. " I want to know something Trixie"

"Yes?" Trixie asked.

"I know It's not any of my business" Shining Armor continued. " But I'd like to know what besides my sister humiliating you during your first encounter, convinced you to do the things you did last year?"

Trixie was hesitant at first to answer the stallions question, especially given that she'll have to reveal her backstory to him which she's never comfortable with sharing it with anyone especially a therapist. But given that she was now incarcerated, there was no point in keeping it to herself anymore, and given that she had a part in Shining's sisters demise, it was only fair that she'd explain herself in a way to give herself closure just like the stallion sitting right in front of him.

"Very well than Shining Armor" She began. " Trixie will.............I mean I will spill the beans" Trixie then took a deep breath before finally explaining herself........................







You see, I haven't really had the best life when I was a kid. What I'm about to tell you is gonna make you question on how my past was so depressing, well after I finish talking, you'll fully agree with me. Anyways, my parents were the best and most powerful magicians this side of Equestria, their magic was unlike anyone has ever seen, it was so mesmerizing that it could even give the royal sisters a run for their money. They had so many adoring fans and supporters from a round the world, they were practically a world wide phenomena, but alas, all that changed when my mother gave birth to me.

Now you might be expecting that my mother and especially my father were overjoyed to have a kid, but I'm afraid their reactions were more than happy. As it turns out, neither my mother or my father wanted to have a kid as it would mean that I'd be an obstacle in their career. After I was born they barely took care or even looked at me, the only time they acknowledged me was when they gave me my name, but that was it. Whenever they went out on tour to perform, they shipped me off to either my aunt and uncle or my grandparents who weren't as caring.

During my childhood, I barely seen my parents, I legit felt like I was an orphan. The only times I've ever seen them was either at the end of the month or on certain holidays, but even then they still don't knowledge me as their daughter and continued to act like I don't exist. I always tried to get their attention but nothing worked, and school was no better, despite being the daughter of celebs, I was always bullied due to my poor magic skills with a lot of my classmates questioning on whether or not I really was related to my parents. And of course my parents did nothing to stop my bullying problem and issues at school.

But one day I really pushed my folks to the limit, when they were out on tour, I wanted to take a peak at their magic chamber. You see, my parents had a secret chamber where they keep every single one of their props, artifacts, tools, and accessories for their performances. But they specifically told me to never step foot in there as it was off limits, but since they were currently out on tour, I figured that one teensy peak wouldn't hurt as long as I didn't touch anything. As I entered the chamber, I was mesmerized at the many magical items that I came across as I walked in, but that's when it all came crashing down.

As I continued to be mesmerized by my parents magical tools, I didn't see the table containing a variety of magical potions until it was too late. I bumped into the table causing one of the potion bottles to drop and shatter on the floor causing a small magical fire which soon increased in size, I tried to put it out, but given that i was only 8 at the time, this was easier said than done so i just got the hell out of their. Soon the fire department showed up to put out the magic fire, and too my horror, my parents arrived as well having finished their tour early, and I must tell you, they were absolutely furious at what I've done.

I don't really wanna talk about the "punishment" they gave me, but let’s just say my stomach churns every time I'm reminded of it. After that they dumped me with my grandparents and even went as far as to call me a mistake, and as usual, my grandparents never comforted or supported me. Each night before I went to bed, I always prayed that my parents would forgive me and take me back home, time eventually passed and I was now in my teenage years, which conformed that they were never coming back and that they never cared about me. So I figured that there was no longer a reason for me to stick around with this family, so I chose to go out on my own.

On my 18th birthday, I packed up my belongings and escaped my grandparents house without leaving a note, not that they would have cared anyway. While out  on my own, I began to train my magic, while it wasn't the most perfect magic, it did reward me some pocket change which helped to get me by. I eventually began to do some odd jobs from some of the neighboring towns as I knew pocket change wouldn't be enough to support myself, I eventually found myself a cheap apartment and settled into my new life. But that was when I found out some shocking news.

As it turns out, both of my parents were killed during their performance in Saddle Arabia after one of their tricks went array, you might think that I was saddened at my parents passing, but given that they never cared about me or even acknowledged me as their daughter, then why the hell should I give a damn about their deaths? I know its cruel to badmouth the dead, but given their treatment towards me, it was hard for me to feel any sort of sympathy. I betcha they wouldn't even care if I died, their deaths were also the main reason i decided to move my life forward a bit.

After that I decided to pursue my own magic career and to be abetter magician than my parents would have ever been, after I received my last paycheck from one of my odd jobs, I packed up my things and my entire saving's before heading out to chase my dream. I began to travel across Equestria performing for various events raging from birthday parties, sports, and even nightclubs. While my magic wasn't as amazing as my parents, it still landed me some money, I began to train my magic skills and began to grow stronger and stronger these past few years. Eventually I met Tirek whom offered me various magical artifacts to help increase my magic skills, a few of em however got me into trouble a few times, but they also helped me to make a quick escape.

And to make a long story short eventually I came across Ponyville and met Twilight my rival turned partner which would eventually lead to last years event's.







"And so here we are now" Shining Armor was in complete silence and shock after the mare finished her backstory, he never expected the magician to have such a horrible childhood. While what she did last year was unacceptable, given her backstory, the stallion would be lying if he didn't understand her reasons to act the way she did.

"I never realized you went through so much Trixie" Shining replied with a hint of remorse. " I'm so sorry"

"It's quite alright Shining Armor" Trixie replied. " Honestly I'm the one who should be apologizing, I know it's not gonna mean much, but if I could go back and reverse what I did I would. But alas I can't, because of my foolish actions, I hurt so many ponies and caused so much destruction, but worst of all, I caused your sisters downfall all because I wanted to be the kind of pony my parents never were. But that only caused my own downfall, in the end I was no better than them. I don't blame you or anyone else for hating my guts Shining Armor as it's what I deserve, but for what it's worth Shining Armor.............I'm sorry"

Trixie said nothing more and bowed her head in shame, after what felt like a minute, she felt a hoof holding onto hers causing the mare to look up to find them belonging to non other than Shining Armor who had a look of pure pity written on his face.

"I forgive you" He said earning a shocked look from the young magician.

"What?" Trixie replied in shock. " After everything I've done? And for costing you your younger sisters life? How on earth could you possibly forgive me?"

"Don't get me wrong Trixie" Shining Armor replied. "I was pissed off at you for everything that you've done, and for causing my sisters downfall. Btu after hearing your backstory, I now realize that your not as bad a pony as everyone thinks, you had a bad life and felt that acting up was your stress relief to put your terrible childhood behind you. And honestly, you and I aren't so different. Even though I continue to take my therapy sessions, I still regret how I treated Twilight during the wedding rehearsal , all while wishing that I could take my hurtful words back, but I know I can't, but I know that I gotta try my hardest to try and move on, and to redeem myself  as it's never too late"

"And I know it's not too late for you either"  Now Trixie was the one speechless as she continued to listen to the stallions explanation. " That's actually another reason as to why I came to see you, me and Cadence talked a bit to the supreme council , and we managed to convince then to decrease your sentence from 35 to 10 years.........or 5 years depending on your behavior"

Hearing this caused the unicorns jaw to drop in shock at the fact that her sentence had been decreased, meaning that she'd be released early. "Wwwwwwwwwwwwhat? I mean don't get me wrong, i strongly appreciate this Shining Armor, but why ? After all that I did, 35 years seems like the appropriate sentence for me don't you think?"

"Like I said Trixie" Shining Armor replied. "Your not as bad of a mare, you've just had a bad life. And while most would disagree with me, I think there's still a chance to redeem yourself. Cause it's never too late for second chances, while it'll be hard to redeem yourself, the least you can do is try your hardest to make up for everything you've done. However, I don't really see me and you every being friends. When your released from here soon, i don't want you to come near me, Cadence, my soon to be kid, or even the main 5. Is that clear?"

Trixie gave a nod as she answered the Stallion demand. " Crystal clear Shining Armor, and thank you, I promise to behave myself"

"Lets see if you can keep that promise Lulamoon" Shining armor replied.

"Oh and by the way, I heard about your mothers illness" Trixie said. " I'm truly sorry, I'd offer to help, but unfortunately, my blood isn't compatible. Plus I'm pretty much the last pony your mother would want as a donor"

"True" Shining Armor replied. " But I appreciate your willingness to help Trixie" Suddenly the sound of a bell could be heard echoing the entire room, which signaled that visiting hours were over. " Seems visiting hours are over" 

"indeed" Trixie said. " Well, have a nice day Shining Armor"

"You too Trixie" Shining Armor replied as he got up from his seat, with nothing more to say, the stallion made his way towards the exit as Trixie was escorted back to her cell as a small smile formed on her face.

Soon Shining Armor exited the prison with his spirits higher than usual, but he knew that his problems weren't yet solved as he knew there was still some things to do as well as a new objective, as he was in his thoughts, he was soon interrupted by a voice.

"Captain!" Came a voice, causing the stallion to turn around to find one of his troopers, Flash Sentry running towards him. as he finally reached the stallion, the pegasus panted heavily as he caught his breath before speaking again. " Thank Celestia! I've been looking all over for ya"

"Flash? What is it?" Shining Armor asked.

"Cadence sent me" Flash answered. " She told me to tell you that your father has a message...................................

















"They found a donor for your mothers operation"
> "Family reunion"
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next day

The sound of tapping sounds illuminated the dining room table of the Sparkle household as various hooves tapped on the wooden surface, Velvet along with her husband had anxiety written on each of their faces as they along with Shining Armor patiently waited for the arrival of velvet's blood donor for her cancer treatment. After the unicorn was informed about the news of the couple finally locating a donor for Velvet's treatment, the stallion was quick to catch a train to his hometown the second he woke up this morning.

Cadence however decided to stay behind as this was mainly between the Sparkle family,  but never the less wished her husband luck with his parent's. The couple however didn't inform the stallion on whom was coming which fueled Shining's curiosity. But given how nervous the couple has been the second they invited their son in, there was no doubt the guest who was to arrive soon has a past with them.

Suddenly the sound of the doorbell could be heard, indication that someone has arrived. The stallion took it upon himself to be the one to open the door, given that he wanted to know who it was that this parents requested for a blood donor. After a few seconds, the stallion made his way towards the front door just as the doorbell range for a second time as he began unlocking it. As he finally opened the door, Shining Armor got the surprise of a lifetime after witnessing who was at the other end of the door................................

Miss Cheerilee 

"Shining Armor, we meet again" She said.

The stallion was speechless as he glanced at the mare standing right in front of him, not expecting to encounter her again after only meeting Cheerilee weeks ago.

"Uh yeah" He replied with a stammering tone. " So.........what brings you here?"

"I'm sure it's pretty obvious" She stated. " I'm here to finally meet my real parents, plus I've been told that my A positive blood is needed for cancer treatment" There was an awkward silence for a moment as Shining Armor was visibly dumbfounded at the fact that Cheerilee was the blood donor, but what was even more shocking was that she was finally gonna meet her biological parents after all these years.

"Ya know, it's rude not to invite your guest inside right?"

Shining Armor quickly went back to reality knowing that the mare was right. " Oh! Of course, sorry, come on in. My folks are waiting  in the dining room" The mare gave a nod as she made her way inside of the Sparkle household.

Soon the brother sister duo entered the dining room where they ( mainly ) Cheerilee were met by the married couple, whom have which were anxious and rather nervous about her arrival. Once the duo were seated, there was an awkward silence at first as Crescent levitated some cups of tea for everyone at the table. Only the sounds of quiet sips could be heard as everyone around the table struggled to find the right words to say especially towards the young school teacher.

After what felt like an eternity, the family matriarch finally broke the ice. " Thank you for coming , Miss Cheerilee"

"Well actually, my "parents" requested that I come" Cheerilee replied in a quiet tone. " And I'm only here because you guys are their childhood friends, and I couldn't say no to that"

"We know.................."

"Stop" She interrupted. " Before you say anything Mr Crescent, and before I even give you my answer as to whether or not I'll go through with  the blood transfusion for Velvet. I have one question , and you better give me an honest answer, otherwise, I'm out of here"  Crescent gulped after hearing the mares demand, he gave a fast nod, not wanting to risk the one mare who might be his wives only chance of surviving this predicament to leave. 

"Why?............why did you guys abandon me? Did you not wasn't me, was I a mistake or something?"

"No it wasn't like that Cheerilee" Crescent corrected.

"Then what was it then?!" Cheerilee shouted. " What could possibly be the reason for you two to just up and give me away like some sort of last minute birthday present?! You know, those two may not have been my real parents, but they loved me and treated me like I was their actual daughter, and I have them to thank for everything. If it wasn't for their love and support, I wouldn't be where I am today.  Unlike you two, they actually gave a shit about me, they didn't care that I wasn't related to them,  once again they treated and loved me like I was their own daughter, honestly if this is how you two treat your own flesh and blood, it's a miracle shining Armor and even Twilight...........................

"WE WERE YOUNG CHEERILEE!!!!!!!!!!!" Velvet roared, interrupting the earth pony, Velvet panted for a bit as well as let out a small cough before continuing. " We didn't abandon you sweetie, we just weren't ready yet. Me and Crescent weren't planning on getting married immediately after we graduated, when I found out that I was pregnant a week after losing my virginity to crescent, we were in a panic. Like I said, we were young back then and weren't expecting to have a kid of our own so soon, and we couldn't just force ourselves to get married immediately believing that it was the right thing to do in this situation. But me and Crescent didn't want to put ourselves and our respected families through all that"

"And we didn't want to go down the abortion path either , so we figured out the more reasonable solution" Crescent jumped in. " I'm sure your mother informed you a while back when she told you everything that she had terminal issues which prevented her from getting pregnant. Unlike us, they were actually planning on getting married after college, but when she discovered her terminal issues, she and her mate were heartbroken at the fact that they'd never get the chance to start a family of their own. So that's when we gave them an offer...................to have them adopt you"

" When we explained our little situation with them, they were on board with the idea" Velvet replied. " After waiting for month's , I finally gave birth to you the night before their wedding.  Soon we took care of the adoption papers and handed you over to them before they headed out for their honeymoon, then a year later me and Crescent finally got married and had Shining Armor. But I'd be lying if I said that me and him haven't regretted our decision.  When I had Shining Armor, I was full of nothing but guilt at the fact that he'd go on without knowing that he had a sister, but when I had Twilight a few years later I figured that would fill in the rift, but that only made me regret my decision more and more"

"Especially given the fact that the both of them would be born without even knowing of your existence, except for Twilight whom lived in the same town as you" Crescent said. " It only made matters worse that she had no Idea that one of her friends turned out to be her long lost sibling, and now she'll never know" There was a long silence for a moment as Cheerilee collected her thoughts. 

"I know this is gonna be hard to believe Cheerilee, but me and Velvet regretted giving you away, there hasn't been a day where we wished that it could have been different back then. But again, me and Velvet weren't ready to have a kid yet, if we had you and something bad happened to you because of our stupidity, we would never have forgiven ourselves. We didn't mean to give you away like that Cheerilee, we just didn't know what to do. I know this won't mean much, but we're truly sorry for all of this, I don't blame you for hating us "

Cheerilee was at a loss for words after hearing her biologic parents explanation, while a part of her was still upset about the couple just giving her away, the mare also understood their reasons for doing so given that they didn't plan on getting married immediately after graduation, even though it was a pretty drastic choice. After a moment, the mare let out a long sigh before speaking. " I..................I guess I can understand your reasons for doing so, and I'd be lying if I said that I didn't understand how you felt. I had a few pregnancy scares myself during my college days, so I understand the feeling. But why didn't you guys at least come to see me or something?"

"We were afraid that you wouldn't want anything to do to us if we told you the truth ourselves Cheerilee" Crescent replied. " And you were already having a happy life, and we didn't want to ruin it so suddenly by revealing ourselves to you"

"......................That's understandable as well" Cheerilee said. There was another awkward silence for a moment before the mare broke the ice. ".............................I'll do it"

"What?" Velvet said in a shocked tone.

"I'll do the blood transfusion" Cheerilee replied. " You may have given me away, but you guys are still my parent's, my biological ones at that. And I wouldn't forgive myself if I refused a cancer patients request, and again I can understand you reasons for giving me away. I can honestly see that your not bad ponies, you were young back then and didn't know what to do in a situation like that. Believe me, I've been there. So I will help you guys, but I want you to promise me something. If there's anymore secrets that neither me or Shining Armor AKA my little brother know about, I expect you two to be honest with us from now on"

The trio were speechless after Cheerilee finished her little lecture, Crescent and Velvet were especially shocked that she agreed to it despite learning the truth about them. Tears started to form on the couples eye's and soon they collected the mare, no their daughter into a hug. She didn't return it however, but never the less smiled and accepted it as Shining Armor looked on with a smile of his own.

"Thank you Cheerilee" Velvet sniffed as the group hug ended.

"Thank you so much sweetheart" Crescent replied. " I promise , no more secrets. and we'll be there for you this time we promise. And to start off our path of honesty, I kind of have a confession for both you and Shining" Hearing this caused Cheerilee and shining Armor to raise an eyebrow as they wondered what their father was about to reveal.

"You see, Crescent isn't actually my name. My real name is Night Light" The siblings jaws dropped in shock after their father admitted that Crescent wasn't his real name. " You see, I have quite a history with my actual name. Back in grade  school, I was bullied and teased a lot by my classmates because I was named after a literal Night Light, especially since it didn't make much sense as my cutiemark was a Crescent moon , not a Night Light. When I started highschool i practically had to beg mom and dad to have my name legally changed, cause there no telling what kind of hell I'd go through  if any of my  highschool mates found out my actual name"

There was a long silence for a moment after Crescent finished his little tale, the silence turned into chuckles, which eventually turned into full blown laughter by Cheerilee, Shining Armor, Velvet, and even Crescent AKA Night Light.
> Epilogue part 1 : Reconciliations and dreams
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

An hour later


We now find the group near the Canterlot train station, waiting patiently for their....well mainly Velvet, Crescent, and Cheerilee's train to arrive. Once their short meeting/reunion came to an end , the group wasted not I'm and made their way to the next train bound for Appleloosa where the surgery was to commence.

Shining Armor took it upon himself to pay for the trio's tickets, all while remaining visibly happy that not only his mother finally found a blood donor for the surgery, but that his long lost sister finally received closure after finally meeting her real parent's, along with the fear of it ending badly turning out to be false reality. The stallion now found a bigger boost of confidence as things started to slowly go back to normal.

"Thanks for paying for our ticket's son" Crescent said with a smile. " Your mother and I appreciate it"

"It's no problem at all dad" Shining Replied. " I'm happy to help" He then turned his attention towards his mother. " How are you feeling mom?"

"Honestly son" Velvet said nervously. " A little nervous, what if something goes wrong during the procedure and they're not able to fully treat me?"

"Mom, you got nothing to worry about" Shining Armor reassured. "AJ told me that the medical team down in Appleloosa are some of the most skilled professionals this side of Equestria. Hell they could even give the Canterlot City health quarters a run for their money. They haven't once failed a single patient, trust em mother, you and Cheerilee are in good hooves"

"I'll take your word on that son" Velvet replied, she then turned towards Cheerilee. " I can't thank you enough for this Cheerilee"

"I'm happy to help Velvet, I mean mom" Cheerilee said. " Despite everything, you guys are still my biological family, and again  I couldn't live with myself if I denied a cancer patient in need" A warm smile formed on the mares face after hearing the words that came out of her daughters mouth, suddenly a loud booming screeching sound can be heard along with some light clouds of smoke, which indicated that the next train has arrived on the platform. The group turned to find that the next train to Appleloosa has arrived as the passengers began to exit their respected coaches.

"Well.......guess this is it" Crescent said, he then turned towards Shining Armor . " Thanks for everything Shining Armor, once again we really appreciate all this"

"It's no problem dad" Shining Armor replied. " Again , I'm happy to help" Crescent gave a nod and a smile at his sons statement, his expression however changed drastically, and in a split second he rushed forward and wrapped his arms around his sons neck into a hug.

"Son................." He began as tears started to form. " I'm sorry, i didn't mean what I said last year , that was uncalled for. It wasn't all your fault, I know you didn't mean to hurt your sister, I know I your about to say that you don’t blame me for getting angry. but your wrong, I shouldn't have been so angry, you weren’t the monster son. That damn changeling was for manipulating you and the others, Shining Armor I’m so sorry for being so hostile towards you, I love you boy. And you will always be my son, no matter what stupid mistake you make”

Tears of joy formed on the young man’s face after hearing his fathers apology, he then returned the hug as he silently wept on his fathers shoulder. “ Dad” Velvet and Cheerilee watched on at this heart warming scene between father and son after they spent months on little speaking terms. After a minute the hug ended as Velvet walked up and gave Shining a hug as well which he returned .

“Good luck mom” Shining said. “ You’ll be fine, I promise”

“Thank you son” Velvet said as the hug ended, she then gave him a peck on the forehead before continuing. “ Deep down, I know your sister would be proud of you for these last few months of redeeming yourself,  by the way.......purple suits you quite well sweetheart”

Shining Armor blushed a little at his mother’s statement. “ Write to me when you can, to let me know how the Surgery goes, and I’ll respond back as soon as I can. Scouts honor” the couple gave a nod of their own as Shining Armor turned towards Cheerilee.

“I can’t thank you enough for this Cheerilee” He said.

“It’s no problem Shining Armor” Cheerilee replied. “ I should be the one thanking you, If you and I haven’t finally met, who knows how long it would have taken me to finally meet my biological parent’s. I’m so happy to have finally received closure after learning the truth years ago. Hopefully, we’ll be able to be a family after this”

“Of course we’re family” Shining Armor reassured. “ It might have taken us all these years to finally meet, but your still my sister regardless if we never crossed paths, and if Twily was here, I’m sure she’d agree with me too. She would have loved you I just known it”

“Yeah” Cheerilee replied with a slight sigh. “ Good ole Twilight, It’s a shame. I would have loved to have been an older sister towards her as well, but hey, it’s not a total loss. I still have my baby brother standing right here with me. Heheheheh”

“Oye! I’ll have you know i was born a year after you Cheerilee” Shining said with a hint of sas, there was a short silence for a while until the siblings giggled at each other before bringing one another into a hug. “ When you get back, let’s have lunch together sometime, you, me, Cadence, and both of our parents. I’d love to spent time and get to know my long lost sister more”

“I’d like that” Cheerilee replied as a single tear began to form.

“All aboard!!!!!!” Cried the station master, which indicated that the train was to depart any minute now.

“Time to get going ya’ll” Crescent said, and soon the trio made their way towards the train as they waved goodbye to Shining Armor who  waved back, they then got inside their respected coach. Cheerilee on the other hand stayed behind to give her brother one last look as she gave a smile, to which her returned with a smile of his own. With nothing more to say, the mare waved to him one last time before heading inside the coach , just as the train began to exit the station. Shining Armors smile stayed visible as he watched the train depart from the station, all while silently wishing his family luck with the surgery, all while praying that his mother come out as healthy as ever .








Later that night


We now find Shining Armor walking down a mysterious path to who knows where, As the stallion continues to walk forward, he begins to wonder how in the world he got here in the first place?  The only thing he remembers is heading upstairs to sleep the second he returned home after his trip to Canterlot, he was so exhausted from the trip back home that he decided to head to bed immediately, but not before greeting his pregnant wife first. But now he finds himself in this mysterious realm. Was he sleepwalking, or did he not make it home at all and fell asleep somewhere due to his exhaustion? 

At first the stallion was afraid that he was back in the nightmare realm that he visited numerous times in his sleep ever since the new year, but he brushed this accusation aside as said nightmares have stopped ever since he started his therapy sessions, and with the added techniques he learned from his therapist. Plus as he surveyed the path that he walked on, he noticed that’s it was slightly different from the realm that he was familiar with. The path was brighter, there were numerous tree’s that gave off an aura like feel to it, and the wind looked as if it was following or even guiding him somewhere important. 

The stallions had no idea how long he’s been walking for or even if there’s an end to this path. But as he made his way through some lush bushes, he found himself in a clearing, Shining Armor stopped in his tracks as he surveyed the  forest clearing that he came upon. The area looked large enough to build either a house or even to host a sporting event, he then surveyed the trees that surrounded the clearing, their presence was that of a pattern with each of them lined up so that they form a large circular perimeter around the clearing aside from the entrance from which he entered. 

“Where the hell am I?” He asked himself, but before he could say anything else, the stallion would find that he’s not alone in this mysterious realm.

“Shining Armor?” Came a voice which earned the stallions attention. He then turned his attention towards the voice to find non other than the element of honesty Applejack standing just a few meters from him.

“Applejack?” He said, but it wasn’t just her, soon the remaining element bearers including Spike soon popped up right after Applejack, each of then had the same surprised look as the stallion.

“Wowie Zowie” Pinkie Pie said in amazement. “ I never expected to show up in a place like this , this place is a major doozy”

“I agree with you darling” Rarity replied. “ Where in the world are we?”

“Heck if I know Rarity” Dash jumped in. 

“Are we dreaming or something?” Spike asked.

“”That doesn’t make any sense Spike” Dash said. “ No one can have the same dream, thats utterly impossible, maybe Discord’s just pulling one of his pranks and teleported us somewhere in the Everfree forest”

“I don’t think this is Discords doing Dash” Fluttershy replied. “ Besides, this place doesn’t really feel like the Everfree forest, maybe we’re in the Crystal empire?”

“The Crystal Empires forest isn’t anything like this Fluttershy” Shining Armor corrected. “ Believe me I know”

“Well if it isn’t a dream, and not one of discords pranks” Dash jumped in. “ then where the hell are we?!”

“I believe I can answer that” Came another voice, the group turned towards the source, and there stood non other than the sun and moon goddess themselves”

“Celestia, Luna?” They all said in unison and shock.

“It appears that we’re in the spirit realm” Luna said.

“Indeed sister” Celestia replied earning confused looks from the group.

“Spirit……realm? Is that an amusement park or something?” Pinkie said causing Dash to facepalm herself in annoyance at her friends statement.

“No Pinkie Pie” Luna corrected with a sigh. “ This is the spirit realm, it is a place where most creatures are sent to as they slumber when they've experience an event in their lives that traumatized them. Essentially , thou are sent here as a way to look back at their past actions, and as a way to reconnect with someone whom they've lost due to foreseen events that transpired in the real world. And it seems all of you have been sent here for a pretty obvious reason"

"Obvious reason?" Shining armor asked while raising an eyebrow, but then his expression changed to realization, and the others soon had the same realization as the stallion. " Wait, you don't mean.................................

"Yes..........she does" Came a voice which both shocked and sent shivers down the groups minus Luna's spine, as they were quick to recognize the voice that called out to them. The voice that they never expected to hear again since the incident last year, the one voice that brought back the memories of said incident, the one voice made their hearts shatter into a million pieces given the realization that this was the only way they’d hear from the lost mare again………………….

There stood non other than the former element of honesty, the former friend of the main 5, the former student of the sun goddess, and Shining Armors former BLSFF………….Twilight sparkle. As the group continued to stare in shock at the mare standing right in front of them, they especially Shining Armor noticed a few changes in the mares personality. She wasn’t as angry as she was whenever Shining Armor encountered her in the nightmares that he used to have, she just had this static like expression on her face kind of like Pinkies older sister Maud. The group was at awe at the mares mood, as they figured she wouldn’t be as happy to see them again even during death or in a dream realm.

It was almost as if she had completely forgotten about the dreaded rehearsal incident, but they knew that wasn’t the case. As that’s something that wouldn’t go away so easily given how it transpired . No one in the group knew what to say towards their fallen friend, with the fear of her lashing out at them again, especially towards her brother. But they knew that they wouldn’t get the chance for this again, but finding the right words wasn’t an easy task, and given that she wouldn’t accept any of their apologies last year, who’s to say that it wouldn’t be different now? Luna backed away slightly given that this soon to be conversation was between them , as they tried to find the words, the purple maned mare finally broke the ice.

“I take it you all are at a loss for words huh?” She said in a quiet tone, the others while still silent and at awe, managed to give a nod at the mares question. She let out a long sigh after getting the answer she waited for. “ Figures……….but honestly, I don’t blame you guys one bit”

“What do you mean?” Fluttershy asked nervously.

“What I mean Fluttershy…….is I get how you guys felt that day” Twilight continued. “Guilt, ever since my downfall in the hands of you brother, I’ve been riddled with nothing but guilt as my soul ascended to this realm. I was a fool you guys, I shouldn’t have mad such a foolish move by turning against the one place that I called home or nearly overthrow Equestria, I hurt so many innocent souls through my paths of revenge, and something like that will haunt me for all of eternity. And to think i was seconds away from murdering three innocent souls only makes it worse, I know you guys are about to say that it wasn’t my fault and that you were mainly the cause of it, I was no better either. I shouldn’t have barged into the rehearsal the way I did, I should have brought proof first”

“But when I saw chrysalis perform that mind control spell on you Shining, I was desperate to stop her before it was too late. But it seems that’s wasn’t enough to convince you guys. If i had taken my time and actually caught Chrysalis in the act before going to you guys, things probably could have been different and I would still be here with you all instead of…………..

“Twily please” Shining Armor interrupted. “ That’s enough, you shouldn’t pin the blame on yourself. If anything I was no better myself. I know you just said to not blame ourselves, but I know damn well that I instigated it, I should have noticed that something was off with Cadence as she would never act like that even if she was under stress. If anything  Twilight, blame me not the others, again I was the one who instigated it and made them turn against you. You were only trying to warn us Twily, but I didn’t take your words seriously, that will haunt me for the rest of my life.

“That’s not true darling” Rarity cut in. “ While your words did instigate it in the first place, we weren’t any better. We should have had your back all the way Twilight , but we didn’t. You were right all along darling, we cared only about our bridesmaids positions than a friend in need. Because of our foolish actions that day, we could have lost both you and Cadence in the hooves of that insect, and we would have never forgiven ourselves for it. Honestly Twilight, I deserved to lose my horn and my magic, cause what good is it to have magic if i can’t use it to help a friend in need?”

“Let’s not forget, I had a major part in it as well partner” Applejack said. “ I should have had your back as well Twi, but I didn’t, i chose to comfort that imposter instead of one of my best friends, I was no better than Shining Armor, no offense” The stallion have a nod as a way of saying “non taken” towards the earthpony. “ I thought I made the right move Twilight, but in the end it was the wrong choice of action, with that falling out during winter wrap up and the wedding rehearsal, it’s a miracle that our friendships lasted that long. I was a fool Twilight, I don’t blame ya’ll for hating my guts”

“Twilight” Dash jumped in. “ I always had my friends back since middle school, whenever Fluttershy or anyone else was getting bullied, I would always stand up and protect them as I always had their backs. But I didn’t have your back. I’m supposed to be the element of loyalty, but I wasn’t loyal to anyone that day. I don’t even know why Scootaloo still idolizes me, cause who would want someone like me who can’t even take her friends side in a major crisis as a role model, I was a major dumbass Twilight, i know this might not mean much…………but I’m sorry” Dash said nothing more as her expression was hidden in the bangs of her hair.

“Twilight sparkle” Celestia said. “ Ever since I took you in as my student, i was so proud of the progress that you’ve made back in Canterlot. You’ve been like a daughter to me, and I loved you like you were my own flesh and blood. But even I can’t make foolish mistakes , even thought me and Cadence aren’t related, me and Luna loved her just as much, and we as well treated her like family. But I was blinded by my poor choices, I’ve raised Cadence ever since I adopted her from the orphanage and like Shining Armor I should have known that she would never act like that regardless if she was stressed or not. You were right all along Twilight, If I can’t see through an intruders disguise and just sit in the sidelines while I let you and your friends handle any threat that comes upon us, than I don’t deserve the title of the Sun Goddess”

“ And I don’t deserve to be your assistant Twilight” Spike replied. “ Ever since I was hatched from that egg, you took me in and treated me like I was part of the family. Even though I haven’t seen Shining Armor, mom and dad as much, they still treated me like I was there actual son and brother. You were always there for me whenever I was down Twilight, but I wasn’t there for you, I was selfish, I should have taken your side but I didn’t. I made the most idiotic mistake and chose to follow the others to of fear of having my position stripped too, but i should have chose my sister over a stupid wedding and look what it’s cost me?”

“I wasn’t brave Twilight” Fluttershy said. “ I was nothing but a coward that day, I should have taken your side as well. But I didn’t, I was afraid of how the others would react if i did, and I figured that they would deem me a traitor and not take my words seriously if I tried to defend you. So I just chose to follow suit, which was the stupidest mistake I’ve ever made. Goddess, i was a monster Twilight I………………..I………………….” The Pegasus said nothing more and just silently weeped.

“What I did wasn’t nice Twilight”  Pinkie Pie jumped in. “ I love making my friends smile, and I was always there to cheer someone up if they’re feeling down or under the rug. But in the end, I couldn’t make you smile or laugh, instead I made you sad and angry. And I don’t blame you one bit, I was a meanie beanie that day twilight, and who want’s to be friends with someone like me if all I do is irritate and make everyone miserable. Why Celestia chose to make me the element of laughter I’ll never know, if I manage to not make everyone laugh, than what good am I ? Twilight, we’re so sorry for how we treated you , I know you’ll never forgive us for what we didn’t and i don’t blame you, no party I can ever pull will make this right , you have every right to hate me”

Twilight was in a complete state of shock after hearing each of their words, the mare wasn’t expecting any of those words to come out of their mouths, a part of her was expecting them to lash out and call her a traitor after all the mayhem that she and Trixie unleashed last year. But here, they were apologizing, while a part of her last year didn’t believe a single word any of them said after she had many fake friends over the years. But right now seemed different, they were genuine in their words. These were no crocodile tears or manipulate words, these were them spilling their emotions out. A part of her wondered if this is what they were trying to say to her during her Ponyville rampage, if things would have been different if she gave them a chance to apologize instead of jumping into action. After a long silence between them, The unicorn finally spoke up. “ I forgive you”

The others lifted their heads after hearing the words that just came out of the mares mouth. “ Yes , I forgive you guys, you truly were my real friends. And your words right now proved my point, even though I’ve had many instances where I was tricked by those whom I thought were my friends, you guys were not them. Sure we’ve had some mistakes in the past, but hey? When have friends never had a fallout ? It’s natural, plus it’s a way to make our bond stronger so that we never make the same mistakes again, you guys have more than proved that your my friends and family, I was a fool to have the darkness make me see otherwise. I don't want our bond to sever because of one foolish mistake, I love you guys, and nothing, and I mean NOTHING will every change that"

The entire group was in a complete state of shock after the realization that Twilight Sparkle, the one mare whom they hurt last year due to their false accusations, who was one step closer to have taken over Equestria as the next Nightmare, has forgiven them. While they expected her to lash out at them, to let each of them know how they failed they're respected positions by not representing them that day, but it seems they were completely wrong, Twilight has forgiven them and truly values them as her friends and family despite what they've done in the past. Tears of joy formed on each of their faces, and in a flash Shining Armor rushed over and brought the mare into a hug despite the fact that she was a spirit.

Soon Celestia and the others followed suit and brought the mare into a group hug, all while Luna watched on with a proud look on her face. Twilight, despite the fact that her spirit form couldn't feel them physically, smiled warmly as her friends surrounded her, their love made it seem like the group hug was actually touching her.

"Thank you Twily" Shining Armor said with a happy sniff. " Thank you so much"

"No Shiny, thank you for being here for me" Twilight replied. " I was a fool to have believed I was better off without you guys in my life. you guys are my family, and I will always have your backs, despite the fact that I'm no longer in this world , I will never let anyone hurt you , not even that perv Gladmane"

Shining Armor was surprised after gearing Gladmanes name come out of his sisters mouth. " Wait.........that power I unleashed during Gladmanes assault, that was you Twily?"

"Yes it was" Twilight answered. " Despite what we've been through, there's no way I'd let something happen to my BBBFF and my sister in law. So I lent you some of the power I salvaged from the alicorn amulet in order to stop Gladmane, that's proof enough that I will always be there for you guys no matter what"  Shining Armor smiled at his sisters statement, with the stallion happy to know that she'll always have their backs no matter what. Suddenly the scenery was enveloped into a ray of light which illuminated the entire area.

"It appears that thou time in the spirit realm is up" Luna said. " The others took one last look at their fallen friend before they were teleported back to the mortal realm.

"Goodbye you guys" Twilight said with a smile.

"Goodbye Twilight" Everyone said with a heartfelt smile of their own. And soon the entire area vanished into a massive ray of light as the spirit realm was no longer in view.







Back int the real world, we find Shining armor fast asleep next to his pregnant wife, but this time with a warm and confident smile on his face, and it wasn't just him. Spike and the others to had the same smile on their faces as they slumber, which strongly indicated that everything was gonna turn out fine with all of them with the realization that things were starting to return to normal for each and every one of em.
> Epilogue part 2 : A new horizon
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next few months went by in a flash without a single problem, and suffice to say, everything was now back to normal. Ever since the groups spiritual encounter with twilight, life has started to take a positive turn for each of them.  With twilight having finally forgiven them despite the many hardships from last year,  their spirits were as high as ever especially Shining Armor's.

The stallion has finally found closure , with him not only reconciling with his sister, but with his parents as well after months of heartache. Now their bond was as strong as ever with them finally together as a family again alongside their long lost daughter/sister Cheerilee. And I'm pleased to say that the family has increased in size, with Cadence finally given birth to a beautiful baby alicorn. To which the couple have named Flurry Heart Sparkle, and Shining armor couldn't have been any happier to both be a father, and to start a family of his own alongside his beautiful wife.

Speaking of family, I'm pleased to say that Velvet's cancer treatment was was a success without a single issue, Thanks to the blood transfusion courtesy of her daughter Cheerilee, the mare was as healthy as ever. She still goes down from time to time for routine checkups just to be on the safe side, but rest assured , the entire Sparkle family was overjoyed that the mare has made a full recovery. They even had a big family dinner to celebrate the successful surgery, inviting not only Cheerilee, but also her adopted parents as well, long story short, they were now one big happy family.

And it wasn't just the stallion whom managed to redeem himself, I'm pleased to say that Dr Lockhard and his older brother finally found peace. Ever since his first session with Shining Armor, the griffon finally decided that it was about time he confronted his brother, after sending him a letter telling the stallion to meet him at the Crystal empire whenever he got the chance. The two sibling had a nice long talk, words were exchanged, tears were shed,  but in the end the two brothers buried the hatchet with Lockhard finally forgiving his older brother after putting it off for all these years. And they sealed the deal with a loving embrace fully restoring their bond as brothers.

And I'm happy to report that Buck Whithers  won his election by a landslide thanks to the added support of the royal couple, the stallion was now officially Canterlot's newest congress pony. And not only that, he and his girlfriend Fleetfoot finally got married which made the stallion even more happy to not only to have won the election, but that he can spend his life with the mare of his dreams by his side.

As for the mane six along with Spike, things for going well with them as well. Rainbow dash continued on her work at her friends library, and has found herself an extra boost in business after Fleetfoot put in a good recommendation with some of her friends and comrades, and soon the pegasus found herself some new and regular customers, including members of the wonderbolts and even some ponies all the way from the Crystal empire and Canterlot city.

Pinkie Pie decided to move back to Ponyville, with her families blessing , the young earth pony returned back to her old life, to which she was greeted with a warm welcome party hosted by not only her friends, but every single pony in town , who were overjoyed to have the happiest mare back in town to bring smile and joy to all. She even took back her job at Sugarcube corner to which the Cakes personally welcomed her back along with the twins who were just as happy to have their favorite babysitter back. She also decided to continue working out having grown a liking to her new physique, and she also took a second job as a personal trainer at the local gym.

The Apple family business continued on as normal, but now with higher spirits by not only Applejack, but from Spike as well as they knew Twilight would always be there for them whenever they were down or having problems, the purple sparkle apple continued to sell like hotcakes, even going as far as to outsell their signature and rare  Zapp apple's, which really showed that Twilight was still there for them. And as for Spike, he still grew accustomed to his new home and family, and continued to help out around the farm , he also stopped by the library from time to time to give Rainbow dash a hand whenever she had a flash sale, and he was also taught how to make the signature apple family jams , cider, and pies. While his first attempts weren't the best, Applejack assured him that he'll nail it with her help.

Rarity finally came up with a new system for her dress making, despite not having magic anymore, the mare managed to find the right rhythm to do things by hoof. And I'm pleased to say, her latest creations have been a raging success, with some of em being used in fashion shows, cinema, plays, and even for sporting events. She also continued to receive some help from her friends, Sweetie belle, and even her boyfriend Spike. Yes I'm happy to say she and Spike are now a couple, actually the two started dating ever since he hit his growth spurt a few months ago, But they decided to wait to tell everyone given the events that transpired. But after AJ spotted some lipstick on the drakes neck whom she recognized as the fashionista's favorite brand, she was quick to put two and two together, but she never the less promised to keep it a secret until they were ready to tell everyone about their relationship.

Fluttershy still kept her daily routine of taking care of her animal friends , and helping out at the animal shelter. And not only that, she also started to tutor Apple bloom and some of their other classmates whenever they had trouble with a certain subject in class. She even formed a friendship with her former bullies Hoops, Dumbbell, Score, and Cirrus Cloud who dropped by from time to time to either hang out with her and dash, or to help out with the animal shelter and the weather team .

Celestia continued on as the ruler of the sun, but this time with an added boost of confidence, knowing that her citizens need her, the alicorn no longer waits in the sidelines and now gives full assistance to the elements of harmony whenever they're in need of any back up, She also decided to have the main six store their respected elements at each of their houses for easier access whenever they're called upon to deal with the latest adversary, and suffice to say, the group thanks to the sun goddesses  guidance continued on with their respected roles as the saviors of Equestria alongside the newest element of Magic..................Discord.

Yes I'm pleased to say Discord passed his test with flying colors and was officially awarded the title of the Element of Magic, and so far the draconequus proved himself to be a worthy member of the gang. With his magical abilities proving to be a big help to the group, earning him vast amounts of respect from the citizens of both Ponyville, the Crystal empire, and Canterlot, and while he does play the odd prank from time to time, Fluttershy and the others couldn't have asked for a more suitable replacement for the magic element, and I'm sure Twilight thinks the same too. Celestia even told him  that she was proud of all of his hard work , and Discord was happy to have fully redeemed himself for his past actions and to have made so many friends along the way.

And as for Trixie, she kept her word to Shining Armor about being on her best behavior. The former magician has displayed model behavior and was no longer the boastful egotistical mare that she used to be, and she stopped referring to herself in the third person much to the relief of a few of the guards whom found that tick of hers rather irritating. Shining Armor, Cadence , and even Fluttershy stopped by from time to time to visit and to check on her progress, and It's safe to say that the mare will find herself released very soon if she keeps this up, and hopefully by the time she is released, she'll have been a changed mare.

Despite the hardships from the year before, the group knew that it was never too late to continue onward, especially given that Twilight while gone, still has their backs no matter what, and that their friendship would still go strong despite a few obstacles along the way.







Meanwhile



"Ahhhhhhhhhhh!" Cried Gladmane as he was tossed inside a cell block by a royal guard and landed on the cold hard ground with a thud. The stallion let out a loud groan from the impact before the guard spoke up.

"Welcome to your new home GladDICK" He said sternly. " Oh................ and consider this payback for costing me and my wife 30,000 bits from that rigged Casino of yours from our anniversary trip last year!!!!" He then slammed the cell door shut as the sound of clanking metal echoed throughout the corridor, he then locked the door before exiting the prison chambers leaving the stallion all alone with nothing but the sounds of dripping water, other inmates complaining, and banging metal to keep him company.

The stallion let out one last groan before finally picking himself up from the hard concrete, he walked towards the bars and placed his front hooves on em. His mind was full of realization at the fact that he lost everything thanks to his little revenge plan, despite hiring the best lawyer this side of Equestria that money could buy, the stallion was still found guilty, when Shining Armor stated that kidnapping and attacking royalty was a serious offense, he wasn't kidding, and now the stallion was gonna be here for a while. No money, no girls, no penthouse, the only thing he had left was the clothes on his back and the rats that scurried through the chamber.

Another loud groan can be heard from the stallion which echoed through the corridor before he finally spoke. " Damn it, how could it have come to this? I was so close, that plan was foolproof. But that kid just had to ruin it with those new powers of his, I lost everything. My money, my Casino, my aids, my fans, my penthouse,  my gym membership, everything is gone! And worst of all, that dang unicorn is probably up there laughing at me, I swear if that bitch was still alive I'd strangle her and that little sidekick of hers too, if I ever get out of here Ima track that Lulamoon down and end her"

" Shame you'll never get the chance big boy" Came a voice which slightly startled the stallion as he was quick to recognize whom it came from, he looked up towards the cell that was 5ft away from his, and there stood non other than Trixie Lulamoon herself looking all cool and collected as she surveyed the "new guy" all while Gladmane stared in disbelief. " Well, well, well, we meet again "boss"

"Oh shit" He groaned. " I forgot this place was unisex"

" Nice to see you too" Trixie replied with a smug tone. " So I take it your little revenge plot didn't work out so well?"

"No it didn't" He said with a growl. " Damn it it's bad enough I'm trapped in this place, but now I'm stuck in here with you of all ponies?"

"Hehe cheer up Gladmane, it's not too bad in here" Trixie said. " We get three meals a day,  warm beds, 2 hours of outside time, and Trixie even made some new friends in here"

"Well good for you" He replied sarcastically. " I wouldn't act so smug Lulamoon, I ain't gonna be in here as long as you, need I remind you that your ass is gonna be in here for 35 years?"

" Not anymore" Trixie replied. " I had a nice talk with Shining Armor and he managed to convince the council  to lower my sentence to 10 years, 5 years if on good behavior"

"So that's it?"  Gladmane said with a smug tone of his own. " This goody twoshoes act is just so you'll get an earlier sentence?"

"Nope" Trixie replied. " Don't get me wrong, I'm super dooper happy that I'll be released soon, but I'm not doing this as an excuse to lower my sentence, I'm doing this to redeem myself. Ever since my conversation with Shining Armor, it gave me a chance to look back at my past mistakes, his words of wisdom really hit he hard. He's actually a very nice stallion , I can see why Cadence was into him or why Twilight used to idolize him. I've spent half my life in my parent's shadows thinking that I'll never live up to them. But now I know that I don't need to be anything like them, it's high time I learn to be myself and to do things the right way, I know it's gonna take time and a lot of training ,  but I'm gonna do my magic the right way this time and actually entertain everyone instead of making a mess wherever I go. It's like Shining armor told me , it's never too late to redeem yourself. I know me and him will never be friends after everything in the past, but I'm gonna make him and everyone else proud"

"Well good for you" Gladmane said unimpressed. " I'll give it a month that you won't keep that bullshit promise"

"Whether you believe me or not, I don't care" Trixie shot back. " I'm gonna work hard to redeem myself and to make up for my past mistakes, no matter how long it's gonna take. and unlike you, I actually wanna try to put my past actions behind me. Need I remind you that your in here because of your petty grudge, which was my fault I know. Plus you've conned hundreds of visitors at your resort/casino thanks to those rigged machines of yours. So in a way, your in here thanks to your greed getting the better of you" Gladmane only responded with a growl, not even bothering to fight back with the mare, as it would be pointless at this point.

"Oh ? Hehe looks like he woke up" Trixie said in her head. " By the way big guy, you do squat exercises don't ya?"

Gladmane raised an eyebrow at the mares question. " What kind of question is that? I never skip leg day, why?"

"Cause your gonna need some tight buns when big Eddie is done with ya" Trixie replied with a giggle.

"Who the hell's Big Edd.......................

"Well, well, well, what do we have here?" Came a voice causing Gladmane to turn his head back, his eye's widened in shock as  a stallion as massive as Bulk biceps was standing over him with a thirsty look written on his face as he licked his lips "  It's been a while since I've had some fresh meat in here" Big Eddie then took it upon himself to give Gladmanes butt a good smack causing him to wince slightly. " And your just my type of stallion, bulky, rich, and with a fine ass. Get comfortable Gladmane, cause you and I are gonna have a fun time together, now spread those cheeks for me bitch"Gladmanes expression turned to a look of fear as he knew what was about to go down, all while Trixie looked on in amusement as if she was watching a good show, the stallion let out a gulp and a nervous sweat as he knew what was about to transpire between him and the massive stallion whom he was sharing a cell with.



















"Mother💧"