> Love's Light: Is it possible to love again?
>  by Phoenix Skyfire
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Letters of the Past (Prologue)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Prologue: Letters of the Past
        The past few years had been hard on Celestia. Eighty-six years ago her faithful student, Twilight Sparkle, had fulfilled her destiny and had became an alicorn. She was so proud of her student at the time, even when Twilight asked to remain in Ponyville with her friends. So much had happened in that time, and everything made her even more proud of her student.

        Celestia was sitting in her study looking at Twilight’s old friendship reports, remembering the old days. Over on her bookshelf was a stack of letters that Twilight had sent, to tell her old teacher about what was happening, after she had become an alicorn. Using her magic, Celestia brought over the stack of letters to look at them. Opening the top letter on the stack, she noticed this letter was from eighty years ago.

Dear Celestia,

        After two years of being an alicorn, Celestia had finally convinced Twilight to stop addressing her as princess, and use her name instead.

        I’m writing you today to tell you something ********. I’ve found somepony to call my ******* somepony. Me and her get along so well together, and you won't believe who it is. It’s *******. I’m so happy when me and her *** together. I can’t wait to spend **** time with her. 
                Your friend,
                        Twilight.

        After all these years, some of the words were illegible, but Celestia still understood them. This letter itself had worried her when she had first read it. She had warned Twilight that she was immortal now and to be careful, some pains are greater when one lived for so long, such as loss.

        Rolling the letter up and putting it back, Celestia grabbed the next one. Opening it up, she noticed it was from seventy seven years ago.

Dear Celestia,
        I remember you warning me about the p**ns of being im**rtal. You warned me again when I started dating ********. You’ve always been there to look out for ** and no matter what happens, you’ll always be like a ****er to me.  

These past **ree years have been the greatest I’ve ever ***. Even with all these **ea* times I’ve had, I’ve always worried **out what you told me. So with a strong heart I’m writing this letter to you, to in**rm you that last night, I proposed to ********. I understand if you have the **** to remind me again, about the pain I might go through, but the love I feel right now. I can’t just ignore it.

                With Love, your friend,
                        Twilight.

        Reading this letter brought a tear to Celestia’s eyes. After this letter, Twilight was happier than she had ever been in her life. Rolling the letter up, she placed it back in the stack and pulled out the next one. It was from thirty-seven years ago, most of the letter was faded but it was still legible.
Dear Celestia,

        It’s been hard to keep a smile on my face the last four days. Pinkie has tried everything she could think of, and I still can’t smile. The only time I’ve been able to smile, even the slightest, bit has been in the presence of my wife. 

        Four days ago I lost two of the most important ponies in my life. My parents are gone. My father caught a virus. My mother didn’t know at the time, but it was contagious and she caught it herself trying to make my father better. While normally this virus wouldn’t end a pony’s life, because of my parent’s age it did more damage than normal.

They were always there for me, always thinking about my happiness. If it hadn’t been for them thinking about me and signing me up to enter your school, I would have never met you that day in pony, or become your student. Even when I told them I was dating another mare they supported me.

        I don’t think I’ve ever told you this, but the engagement necklace I gave to my wife... It was actually my mother’s, that father gave to her when they had gotten engaged. 

She gave it to me saying, “I love you, Twilight, and if your marefriend is the one who makes you happy, then I want you to give her this. Show her how much you love her, my little filly. I’ll always stand by you and so will your father.”
Hearing her say those words to me made me so happy. I loved her so much.

My father was always so kind and gentle to me. He was the one who gave me my Smarty Pants doll. I still have it, even to this day as well. I’ll never get rid of it, seeing how he hoof made it himself for my third birthday.

I’ll miss them both so much, and will always love them.

                        Your friend,
                                Twilight.

        Reading this letter again was hard on Celestia. It was this letter that started it all.

Putting the letter back in the pile she pulled another out, it was from twenty years ago, faded slightly from age but still legible. 

Dear Celestia,

        As you may know, I’ve been in the Crystal City for the past week with Cadance to help her through my brothers death. I’ve been taking it hard myself, but she got hit worse. Seeing her like this has got me thinking about my wife.

        I’m scared Celestia, more than I’ve ever been. I’ve always worried about what will happen when she passes on, but with this. I’m worried even more. Never in my life have I seen or even heard about Cadance crying. This last week though, she’s been crying her eyes out. What will happen to me?

        I’m worried, but I won’t leave my wife. I was the one who asked her hoof in marriage. I won’t back out just cause I’m scared. I love her, and if I have to go through some pain, well then, I’ll live with it.

                Your friend,
                        Twilight.

        This letter had given Celestia a smile when she had first read it, since her former student would never back down, even when scared. Now, when facing the thing that scared her most, she still didn’t back down. She would see her marriage to the end. Placing the letter back in the pile, she grabbed another one. This one was from fourteen years ago.

Dear Celestia,

        I hope you will forgive me for not writing sooner. This last week was hard. Six years ago I lost my big brother, and then a week ago Rainbow passed on from an illness that she’s had her whole life. She told us she never told anypony because she didn’t want her friends to worry.

 I tried everything I could think of to try and help her, to save her life, but no matter what I did I couldn’t do anything except ease her pain slightly. I felt so helpless as I looked over Rainbow in the hospital. 

        Throughout her Wonder Bolt career she was always so strong. She wouldn’t stop for anything until her stunts were perfect. The only thing that could stop her was when her friends needed help. Rainbow was always loyal, thinking about her friends. Her last wish was for all us girls not to cry, to stand strong. And we did just that, for her. The last thing she will remember is all of us girls smiling.

        Your friend,
                Twilight.

        Reading this letter made Celestia remember when Spitfire, former captain of the Wonderbolts, had made the announcement that she was retiring and giving rein of the Wonderbolts to Rainbow Dash. Spitfire said that she saw the potential in Rainbow to make a great leader, thanks to her loyalty to her friends, to risking her own life to save the ones she cared about.

        Using her magic, Celestia poured herself some tea, as she returned the letter to the pile and grabbed another. Opening it she saw it was from twelve years ago.

Dear Celestia,

It’s hard for me to keep a smile on my face. Pinkie Pie passed away last night.  She always managed to keep a smile on our faces, even on the hardest moments like when Rainbow Dash died. Pinkie got a mortal disease when she decided to go to a poor town to try and make them smile and bring them food, but she caught a virus that ended her life two days later. Despite all my efforts, I couldn’t save her. 

But she didn’t want anypony else but her closest friends and the Cakes to know about that, she decided to leave like she lived, with a party. She organized one last party and invited all the ponies she knew. When the party was over, she asked us to stay with her in her room. She asked us to always remember the time we had together. A few minutes later she joined my brother and Rainbow Dash.


I know what you are thinking Celestia, it is soon going to happen, my wife may follow them next, but I don’t regret my decision, I’ll remain with her until the day she passes on. I will be there to hold her hoof until the day she passes on. I’m not going to abandon her.

Your friend,
        Twilight.

Upon reading this letter Celestia remembered when she had asked Pinkie, to throw a surprise party for Twilight’s birthday one year. She had invited all of Twilight’s family, her wife, mother, father, brother, Cadance, and all of her friends including Luna, to give her a grand surprise. Twilight had commented that it was the best party of her life, because everyone close to her heart was there. 

Smiling to herself at the memory, she rolled the letter up and put it back grabbing the next one. Opening it she noticed it was from ten years ago. 

Dear Celestia,

        Two days ago one of Equestria’s most successful fashion designers passed away. Rarity was on her way to Canterlot by carriage. Along the mountain side, a rockslide forced her carriage off the side. She was still alive after the accident, but was rushed to Canterlot for medical treatment. When I heard about what happened, I teleported straight to the hospital to see her. 

When I reached the hospital I was allowed in to see Rarity. I noticed that her horn was gone, it must have been destroyed during the accident . The spot on her forehead where her horn used to be was bleeding. I did what I could using my magic, but was unable to do much. While I’m sure my wife would’ve wanted to see her as well she was out of town at the time visiting her parents’ grave. While I sat there at Rarity's bedside I started crying. Me and Rarity had always been close friends, and watching her pass on was horrible.

After she had drawn her last breath I returned home and continued to cry till my wife returned. I ran to her and wept into her shoulder and told her what had happened while she was gone. She held me close while I grieved. I know it’ll come soon. When I’ll lose her to the ever flowing sands of time. When fate will pull us apart. I won’t say I’m not scared because in reality, I’m more scared now than I've ever been. 

        Your friend,
                Twilight.

Looking in the corner of the room, she eyed an elegant dress on a ponyquin. As Celestia looked at the dress she remembered when Rarity had asked her to let her make a dress. At first Celestia was reluctant, but gave in and let Rarity make her a gown. The gown Rarity had made for Celestia was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen. She had thanked Rarity and had even worn the gown to the Grand Galloping Gala that year. 

Turning away from the ponyquin, Celestia returned the letter back to the stack and grabbed the next one. Opening it she remembered it was from nine years ago.

Dear Celestia,

        Two nights ago Applejack left us. She did not pass away from illness or injury. She passed away in her sleep from her long life of hard work. While I’m glad she wasn’t in pain in her last moments, I'm saddened by the fact that I didn’t get to say goodbye to her. Whenever I needed an honest answer to anything, I would go to her. If she wouldn’t have given me the courage to propose that day sixty-eight years ago, I would’ve never married. I owe her a great deal. Without her help, I would’ve never known love like I do. 

        After Applejack’s death I’ve been thinking about my wife. She’s as old as Applejack now, so I know she doesn’t have much time left. I talked to her about it and we’ve decided to move to Canterlot, into the old home my parents left me, so that she can be closer to better doctors. We’ll be leaving this weekend on the train. 

Your Friend,
Twilight.

Reading this letter again, Celestia remembered when the royal gardener had passed away. She had sent a letter to Applejack asking if she would be so kind, to take care of the gardens around the castle till they could get a replacement. She had said in her letter that she would be paid the same amount as the royal gardener for her time. Applejack had agreed, so long as it wouldn’t take too long. During the month she was in Canterlot taking care of the gardens Celestia was able to talk to her and learn more about her.

Replacing the letter in the stack, she took the last one. Opening it she noticed it from six years ago.

Dear Celestia,

        Last night my wife started having small seizures, so I brought her to the hospital. At the moment she’s resting peacefully, but the doctors told me she may not make it. I don’t wanna say goodbye to her yet. I hope I get a little more time with her. I’m sorry Celestia, I can’t write anymore. This is hard for me.

                Your friend,
                        Twilight.

        Celestia noticed that even after six years she could still clearly see tear stains on the letter. After receiving that letter Celestia had left to see her former student to help her through this, but when she had reached the hospital she had seen Twilight sleeping with her head at her wife's side as her wife slept soundly too. Sensing she didn’t have a lot of time, Celestia cast a small spell to ensure they were able to speak one more time before she returned to the castle.

‘After that day, you were never the same, my faithful student,’ Celestia thought to herself as she put the letters back on the bookshelf. ‘The pain of loss is one of the worst things to feel. I’ve tried to help you these past years, but you’ve let the pain overcome you.’ 

Pulling a blank parchment out and some ink, Princess Celestia started writing a letter of her own.

Dear Cadance,

        I know events in the Crystal City these recent years have made you unable to visit Canterlot, but I would like to ask you to come here on my behalf. I am in need of help and not sure who else to turn to.

Your loving Aunt,
Celestia.

 After looking over the short letter, she rolled it up and sealed it. Lighting up her horn, the letter disappeared in a flash of magic.

Walking into her bedroom, Celestia removed her regalia and laid in bed, falling asleep almost instantly. The act of ruling the kingdom, and the emotions brought up by re-reading Twilight’s letters had exhausted her.

> Love's Refraction (Cadance)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 1: Love's Refraction
Cadance

        “The guard has finished their survey of the Frozen North, Princess. All the holdouts of the uprising have been quelled,” a crystal pony said next to me.

        “That’s good work. Let the guards that were part of the survey know that they can take the next three days off to spend with family and friends. They deserve a nice rest after all the work they've done,”  I said, looking at my faithful seneschal. “You can take the rest of the evening off as well, Krys. I’m going to retire early.”

        I stood up from the throne and started walking towards the doors on the far side of the throne room. 

        Unbeknownst to them, I could still overhear Krys talking with a guard. Bless my alicorn senses, I suppose.

        “The Princess is so strong. Only a decade after Prince-Regent Shining Armor died and she has to deal with this uprising. For the past ten years she’s fought to keep the Crystal City the same way it’s been since we merged with Equestria, and only now can we truly rest peacefully.”

        Shortly after leaving the throne room, I found myself in front of my chambers. Opening the door I could hear another pony’s hoofsteps on the tiles of my washroom.

        Stepping inside and closing the door I called out, “Lilly? Is that you in there?”

        “Yes, princess. I’ll be right there,” a pony called back.

        A few seconds later a white crystal pony stepped out of my washroom and bowed to me.

        “I didn't think you’d still be here cleaning. What took so long today?”

        “I wasn’t cleaning, princess. Krys sent me a note shortly after you left the throne room saying you had a rough day, so I came and ran you a hot bath to help you relax before you retire for the evening. It’s ready as well, I just finished it when you walked in,” Lilly replied, smiling at me. “Is there anything else I can do for you?”

        “No thank you, Lilly, but I do thank you for running me a bath. I could use one,” I said, stepping past Lilly towards her washroom. “Would you also thank Krys for me if you see her?” I asked, turning my head towards my maid.

        “Of course, princess. By your leave,” Lilly said, turning around and leaving my chambers.

'Krys and Lilly help me out so much. Perhaps I should do something nice for them when I get the chance,' I thought to myself, walking into the washroom. 

My muscles ached, after nearly fourteen hours of sitting in my office, hunched over documents as pleasant to read as a hug from a cactus.

After removing my regalia, a lowered herself into the bath. The steam and warmth made me hiss from relief.

'Okay, this ends that thought. I'm definitely doing something nice for them.'

Just as I was starting to enjoy my bath, a letter appeared in front of me. I grabbed the letter in my magic, noticing that it had Celestia’s seal on it.

'I wonder what Auntie Tia sent me a letter for?' I thought, opening the letter and reading it.

Dear Cadance,
        I know events in the Crystal City these recent years have made you unable to visit Canterlot, but I would like to ask you to come here on my behalf. I am in need of help and not sure who else to turn to.
Your loving Aunt,
Celestia.

Reading this letter worried me. 

'What could Auntie Tia need my help for?' 

Using my magic, I pulled a parchment and quill so i could reply to her.

Dear Auntie Tia,
I'm happy to tell you that I can come to Canterlot in the morning. If you can though, I'd like to know what you need my help with. I can't think of anything you would need my assistance with.
Also, I'm happy to inform you that the last bits of the uprising, here in the Crystal City, have been quelled. In short, I should be able to spent a lot of time in Canterlot to help you with what you need.
Your niece,
Cadance

        Looking over my letter, I rolled it up and sent it to Celestia. 

Getting out of the bath, I used a quick spell to dry myself off, then I stepped into my bedroom and laid on my bed. 

Given that Celestia would get my response immediately, I decided to wait a bit and see if she’d send me another letter.

Using my magic, I retrieved my regalia from the washroom and returned it to its place atop the nightstand. I then closed my eyes to relax a bit.

        Of course, shortly after that, I heard the familiar sound of a letter arriving through magic. .Opening my eyes I saw a new letter laying on the bed. I opened it, still worried.

Dear Cadance,
I’m glad you’re able to come so soon. I was worried you wouldn’t be able to visit for a few weeks. I’m happy as well  that this uprising business is also something the Crystal City can put in their past.
I hope you can forgive me, dear niece, but this is a topic I’d rather discuss face to face. You’ll understand why I say this when you get here, and I explain. Just so you are a little more prepared though, I will inform you, it has to deal with your special talent. 
I’ll see you tomorrow. 
Your Loving Aunt,
                Celestia

‘Something to do with my special talent?’ I thought, looking at my cutie mark. ‘What could have happened that Auntie Tia needs my help that revolves around love? I might as well get some sleep. I’ll inform Krys and Lilly tomorrow about me heading for Canterlot,’ I  thought to myself,  yawning slightly. 

Getting comfortable in bed has been difficult for me, these past few decades.

I could still feel the place where Shining was supposed to be. The void he’d left hurt, like a scarred wound that had never healed properly, twinging from time to time.

I sighed, frustrated. I hadn’t wanted to think of him. Again.

I moved to the fireplace on the other side of the room and laid on the pillows arranged in front of it, then I lit the hearth in a blaze of fire.

I was asleep before my head touched the pillow.

*                                        *                                        *
Waking up, I stretched my hooves out under the blanket. 

‘Wait, blanket?’ I thought, opening my eyes and looking back. 

Sure enough, I had a blanket covering me. ‘Maybe Lilly came in during the night and put a blanket over me?’ I wondered, using my magic to return the blanket to the bed.

Looking over at the mantle clock on the fireplace, I noticed it was eight in the morning, much later than when I normally wake up. 

Walking over to the vanity, I sat down on a small pillow, and pulled the brush over with magic so I could fix my mane and tail.

 After that bit of routine, I put on my regalia so I could look presentable- heaven forbid I got out of my chambers without lugging around three bulky, heavy, and uncomfortable symbols of authority everywhere I go.

Walking down the hallway, I started wondering about auntie's letter. What could she need my help with? I knew the sooner I left and got to Canterlot the sooner I’d know. 

Looking in front of me, I noticed I was in front of the throne room. Opening up the doors, I walked inside and noticed Krys next to the throne speaking with some guards. She looked up at me, hearing my hoof steps against the room tiles.

Krys trots over to me and bowed. “Good morning princess. How did you sleep last night?” she asked me, still in her bow.

“I slept rather well, Krys. Thank you. I would like to speak with you, by the way. It’s somewhat important.” I spoke with kindness looking at Krys with a smile on my face.

Looking over to the guards I motioned them to leave with a flick of my head. After the guards had left I moved over, taking my seat on the throne.

“What is it you need to speak with me about princess?” Krys said, walking over in front of me.

“Please, Krys. I’ve told you before, when it’s just us call me Cadance. I’d like to consider us friends,” I said, smiling down at her.

“Forgive me, Cadance. I sometimes forget.”

“I understand, Krys. Now about what I need to talk to you about,” I said dropping into a more serious tone. “I need you to run things here in the Crystal City, until otherwise noted. When you accepted the position as my seneschal, you agreed to run things should something come up. I will be leaving for Canterlot in just a bit.”

“Why are you going to Canterlot? If I may ask.” 

“I received a letter last night from Princess Celestia. She asked for my presence there to help her with a small problem. While I know this is short notice, Krys, this letter seemed urgent,” I spoke with authority and kindness. “I know you can do what I ask of you though.”

“Of course, Cadance. I’ll do everything I can for the Crystal City while you are away.”

“Thank you, Krys. Could you see that a chariot is waiting for me outside in fifteen minutes as well? I must go pack a few things.”

“Of course, princess. By your leave,” Krys said to me bowing slightly before trotting off to, I assume, get the chariot.

After Krys had left I teleported back to my room. Appearing in my room, I heard somepony squeak. Looking over I noticed Lilly on her rump gasping for breath.

“I’m sorry for startling you, Lilly. Are you ok?”

“Yes princess, I’m alright. Just got scared when you popped in here all of a sudden,” Lilly said, getting her breath under control. “Why are you back here? Didn’t you wake up just a bit ago?”

“Yes, I did just wake up a bit ago: I came back to gather a few things for a trip I'm taking though.”

“Trip? Did something come up?”

"Celestia sent me a letter last night, asking me to come to Canterlot. She requires my aid for something, though for what, I am unsure," I explained to Lilly, while at the same time using my magic to gather the items I need. “I have asked Krys to look after the city in my steed, during my absence. I would also like to ask you a favor, if I may.”

"You may ask me anything princess," I heard Lilly say, as I turned around and looked at her.

"Stay at your wife’s side. This will be her first time since becoming my seneschal, in which she'll have to do this," I said, smiling at her. "With you at her side, I know she will be just fine."

“I would have stayed at her side, even if you wouldn’t have asked me, princess. Thank you for thinking of her though.” 

“Both of you have helped me out a lot these past few years. What kind of friend would I be if I didn’t think of you?” Levitating my bag over to me I felt as though, I had everything I could possibly need. “All right, I got everything I need, and my chariot should be ready by now. Farewell, Lilly.” Turning to the door I began to head out to the front of the castle.

Reaching the front of the castle, I noticed a chariot with two crystal pegasi harnessed to it. How crystal wings could fly... I’ll never know. Saying my farewells to Krys, I placed my bag into the chariot and climbed in to settle myself down for the long ride.

As the chariot took to the sky, I started thinking about my aunties and Twilight. It’s been ten years since I last saw them in person. It’ll be so wonderful to see them again.
> Love's Afterimage (Twilight)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 2: Love’s Afterimage
Twilight

I strained to keep my eyes closed, as the light shone in from my window. Why did Princess Celestia have to choose now to raise the sun? Finally opening my eyes, I looked at my window. Using my magic, I pulled the curtains back and flooded the room with darkness.

After pulling myself out of bed, I walked into my washroom. Deciding not to bother with the lights, I used my magic to run a warm bath. After the bath was full, I lowered myself into it and began to relax. 

“Mi’lady? Are you awake ma’am?” I heard from my bedroom.

“Yes, Rose. I’m relaxing in the bath at the moment. I’ll be out in a few minutes. Would you be so kind as to go to the kitchens and get me breakfast? I should be out by the time you return,” I replied to my hoofmaiden.

“Of course, mi’lady. I’ll return shortly.”

After hearing Rose close my door, I sank even further into my bath. After a few minutes of relaxing, I used my magic to pull over my shampoo. After I finished washing my fur, mane, and tail, I pulled myself out of the bathtub. Casting a quick heat spell, I dried myself within seconds.

Walking into my bedroom, I laid down on my bed and spread my wings to preen. Shortly after I started preening my wings, my bedroom door opened to show a light red pegasus mare sporting a midnight blue mane, with a tray of food consisting of a small breakfast salad, orange juice, and pancakes.

“I have your breakfast, mi’lady. Where would you like me to put it?” Rose asked.

“Right here on the bed is fine. I don’t feel like getting up to eat at my desk,” I replied, continuing to preen my wings. 
I noticed the tray of food being set on the bed. After I finished preening my first wing, I extended it out to its full length and then folded it up to my side along with my other wing so I could eat. 

“Thank you for getting me breakfast, Rose,” I told my hoofmaiden, as I started to eat my small salad.

“You’re welcome, mi’lady,” Rose said, giving me a warm smile. “Would you like me to preen your other wing?” My eyes shot open as I turned to look at Rose. “Oh.. Forgive me, ma’am, I didn't mean it in that way. I only offer so you would have more time to relax today.” 

“Forgive me, Rose. Your offer just surprised me. No one, other than myself, has even touched my wings, let alone preen them in six years. I would not feel comfortable with you doing that,” I explain to Rose, as I continue to eat my breakfast.
“I understand, mi’lady. Is there anything else you would like?”

“No, thank you, Rose. Go ahead and have some time to yourself.” 

“By your leave,” Rose said, turning around and walking out of my room.

Hearing my door close, I looked up from my tray of food, looking over at my desk. I saw a picture frame set face down near the back. Sighing at the old memories Rose brought forth, I got out of bed and stretched out my legs. Lifting myself up after stretching, I noticed a bouquet of flowers on my nightstand.

‘Thank you, Rose for remembering,’ I thought to myself, as I lifted the bouquet up with my magic and brought it under my wing holding it close.

Walking out of my room, I started heading towards the gardens.

Minutes passed as I walked past guards who bowed to me, before I walked into the royal gardens. Reaching the end of the gardens, I saw two guards standing outside of an archway. Above the archway, I read the sign, ‘Meadow of Remembrance’. Walking up closer to the meadow, I addressed the guards.

“I wish to pay homage to those that are here,” I said to the two guards.

“Of course, mi’lady. Go right on in,” the guard to my right responded.

The guard to my left smiled as he spoke, “We’ll ensure you are not disturbed, while you are in there.”

“Thank you,” I said, walking under the archway and into the meadow.

I began walking down the pathway into the Meadow of Remembrance, my head hung low. I reached the end of the pathway as it opened up into the resting place of five very special ponies. Raising my head up I looked at the five graves within this tranquil place.

Walking up to the first grave, I saw the inscription, ‘Rainbow “Danger” Dash, Loyalty, First and Only Pony to perform a Sonic Rainboom’. Reading the inscription, once again caused me to remember the day I got my cutie mark. Without Rainbow, I would have never passed the exam and became Princess Celestia student. Using my magic, I lifted a lone violet from the bouquet at my side and place it on her grave. 

“Rainbow, you were always there for all of us. A true friend that always supported us. Loyal to the end.”

Turning from the grave, I went to the next one and read the inscription. ‘Pinkamena Diane Pie (Pinkie Pie), Laughter, Loved Parties to her Last Day’. Seeing the inscription caused me to remember my first night in Ponyville. Drinking hot sauce when Pinkie threw me a party. My horn lit up, and I placed a lone carnation from the bouquet on the grave.

“Pinkie, I wish you could see me now. You would probably go insane trying to make me smile, even just once.”

Leaving Pinkie’s grave behind, I move to the next one. I looked at the inscription, ‘Rarity, Generosity, a Gem of Perfection’. Memories returned to me as I read the inscription. I was in Rarity’s boutique, standing on a platform as she made the finishing touches on my wedding dress. I placed a single white rose on the grave with my magic, turning away.

“Rarity, you were always the one I could count on to help during my marriage.”

At the next grave, I saw the inscription, ‘Applejack, Honesty, Humble Strong and Caring’. A memory comes to the surface. I was standing at the altar out in the royal gardens. Applejack was a few steps to my right, violin in hoof. Applejack raised the violin to her chin and started playing the most beautiful wedding march I ever heard as my wife started walking down the aisle to me. I looked down at the bouquet in my wing, and pulled a lone apple bloom from it, placing it on the grave with my magic.

“Applejack, even though you hid your talent for so long, you decided to show it to everypony just to make the wedding even more special.”

Moving on to the next grave, I sat down, knowing I’ll be here longer than the rest. I looked at the simple grave, reading the inscription. ‘Fluttershy, Kindness, Loving Bride, Cared for all creatures none more so than her wife.’

“Fluttershy, I miss you so much. It’s hard not to when you were the best thing in my life. Even the day we first met I hold dear to me. You may have been more interested in Spike then me, but that was the day I met the pony who would one day become my wife.” 

Glancing over at the base of my left wing, I took in the sight of a gold band. 

“I still wear my wedding ring, even to this day Shy. Sometimes it’s the only thing that helps me through the day. I feel as though when you left, you took a piece of me with you. My heart aches every day and night. Tell me Shy, why? Without you, why am I still here? The princesses don’t need my help to run Equestria. That’s why they let me stay in Ponyville with you,” I spoke in sadness, with my head low. Picking my head back up I looked at the grave, lifting the bouquet in my magic. “I got these for you. Sunflowers. You always said they were one of your favorites,” using my magic, I gently placed the bouquet of sunflowers on my wife’s grave. “I hope you like them,” I stood up and turned around starting to leave, but not before turning my head back towards the grave. “Know this Shy, I’ll always love you. No matter how long you're gone, you’ll always be in my heart.”

Turning back around, I looked into the sky. Spreading my wings out, I took to the air, heading for my bedroom balcony.
> Love's Shadow (Cadance)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 3: Love's Shadow
Cadance
I could barely contain my excitement, even though the ride to Canterlot was rather boring.

I smiled to myself, thinking: 'it's going to be so good seeing auntie Tia and Luna. I wonder how Twilight and Fluttershy are doing? Why haven't they written to me in six years? Maybe with everything that was happening I just missed her letters.' 

I felt the crystal pegasi slow down, as we began to descend. Looking out of the window I saw auntie Tia waiting for my arrival, with a forlorn expression across her muzzle. Why would she look so down? Whatever she needed my help with must be putting her in some kind of bind.

Feeling the chariot land and slow down to a stop, I stepped out and used my magic to retrieve the belongings that I’d brought with me. 

I turned around and spoke to the crystal pegasi, "thank you for carrying me here, both of you. You may head on back to the Crystal City, I do not know how long I'll be needed here. When you get back though, take the next few days to recover."

I felt a hoof on my shoulder, and turned around to Celestia embracing me in a hug.

"Thank you for coming so quickly, Cadance. I have no idea what to do. Even Luna is at her wits end," my aunt spoke, bags under her eyes..

I returned her hug and said, "What is this about auntie? I've never seen you this distraught before."

"I'm sorry, I promise I'll explain everything, but first, let's find a place away from prying ears," Celestia said, motioning me to follow.

I went to grab my bags and noticed they were already gone. 'Somepony must have taken them for me while I wasn't looking,' I thought to myself.

I pushed the thought of my bags to the back of my mind and followed my aunt so we could speak in private. Celestia and I walked through the castle, and I soon noticed that we were heading for the royal garden. 

“Cadance,” I heard Celestia start speaking. “In these past few years, i’ve been doing what I could to hide something from you, so you could focus your efforts on the uprising,” she said, with clear disappointment in her voice, though not towards me, but towards herself. “I know I probably shouldn’t have, but at the time I thought it was the best thing to do.”

“What did you hide from me?”

“I’d rather show you than tell you, my dear niece. I just hope you can forgive me once I do.”

I was confused about my aunt’s statement. Why wouldn’t I forgive her? What didn’t she tell me that would make her think that? 

We continued walking along the Royal Garden until she spoke again. “Do you know where we are heading?”

“From what I can tell auntie, The Meadow of Remembrance. What I don’t understand is why?”

“You’ll soon find out,” she answered me.

Soon after I noticed the archway leading into the meadow, two guards posted outside.

“We wish to pay homage to those that are here,” Celestia said to the guards, as we walked up to them.

“Of course Princess,” they said in unison.

As the guards allowed us passage, me and Celestia walked down the pathway. As we did I noticed my aunt fidgeting, and even biting her lower lip. I could tell she was nervous. 'Is she really that worried about what she hid from me?' I thought to myself.

As we reached the end of the pathway, Celestia stopped. 

Looking over her shoulder at me she speaks, shuffling her hooves around, “I am truly sorry I hid this from you Cadance. I just hope you can forgive me." Speaking the last word Celestia turned back and walked into the meadow.

As I follow my aunt, my eyes widen in horror and shock. A fifth gravestone had been added since I was last here. I didn't want to believe it, couldn't believe it. I slowly made my way to the new gravestone, needing to see what it said. 

As I reached the gravestone my hind legs gave out, forcing me to the ground, closer to what I saw written. 'Fluttershy, Kindness, Loving Bride, Cared for all creatures none more so than her wife.' My mouth hung open. I couldn't believe it. Fluttershy was gone.

‘Twilight was already cracking from losing her brother and friends. Losing Fluttershy, would have been unbearable for her,” I thought to myself, moisture building in my eyes.

“How long has it been?" I asked my aunt without turning my head, as my voice threatened to crack.

"Six years," she spoke with sorrow in her voice. "She's been gone for six years. When she left us, it was as if Twilight left us as well. At first I thought she would be okay, but I was wrong."

"Why?" I asked as a lone tear ran down my face. "Why did you hide this from me?"

"Why did I hide it? I suppose, I don't truly know myself anymore. I hid it at first so you could focus on the uprising. I thought me and Luna could help Twilight through Shy’s death ourselves," Celestia spoke, the sadness in her voice near unbearable. 

I could tell speaking about this was hurting her, but at the moment, my only thoughts were on Twilight. Was she okay?

“Why hasn’t Twilight told me about this?” I asked, as I stood up and turned around to face my aunt.

“I used my magic to stop her letters from getting to you. I didn’t want you distracted from the uprising. At the time I thought it was the right thing to do, but I know now that I was wrong.”

“How could you even think hiding something like this from me would be the right thing to do, Celestia?” I asked, my voice rising in volume.

“Because, I didn’t want the Crystal City to fall, like it did over a thousand years ago,” my aunt said to me calmly.

“Do you truly think I’d let something like this stop me from protecting my little ponies in the Crystal City? Yes, I would have come to try and help Twilight through this. But, I would have never let my ponies be harmed!” I yelled in rage. After taking a deep breath, like I had once taught Twilight, I spoke to Celestia again. “Twilight is one of the most important ponies in my life. You know this. If it wasn’t for her help when Shining Armor passed away, I would have never made it through it,” once again, just as many times before, tears started coming to me as memories of my late husband came forth.

“I’m sorry, Cadance. I know she's important to you, and that’s why I kept this from you. I was worried your concern for her would overrule your concern for the Crystal City. Recently though I’ve found out that I was wrong.” As she spoke the last word, I opened my muzzle to reply, when she brought her hoof up to let her continue. “I know that doesn't excuse me from hiding this from you, but at the moment I don’t care if you hate me or not. I asked you here so you can help, not me, but Twilight.”

“What do you mean?”

"These past six years have not been easy. At fir...."

"Just stop right there and get to the point. At the moment you are not a pony I wish to talk with for a length of time," I said, interrupting Celestia.

"Very well. Twilight has become distant. She does everything she can to avoid, not only myself and Luna, but the entire castle, if she can. She rarely leaves her room."

"Castle? You mean she moved back here?"

"After Fluttershy died, yes. She is back in the tower she stayed in before she moved to ponyville."

I turned my back to the sun goddess and spread out my wings. Since I knew where Twilight was, I wanted to speak with her.

"Where are you going, Cadance?"

"To see Twilight," I said flatly, as I took off into the sky, heading for Twilights room.

Moments later I landed on the balcony connected to Twilight’s old room. Walking up to the doors I pushed them open and looked inside. 

"Twilight," I called out, hoping she would answer me. "Twilight, it’s me Cadance." 'Maybe she's not here,' I thought to myself, looking around the room. 'Still organized like always.'

As I looked around the room, I noticed a picture frame turned down on a desk. I walked over to see what picture could be in it. 

Before I could see the picture, I heard Twilight call out, "Rose, is that you in there?"

"No, Twilight. It's me, Cadance. I came to see you," I called back to her, forgetting about the picture frame.

"Cadance!" I heard Twilight yell.

When I heard Twilight yell out my name I thought she was happy. I immediately found out that I was wrong. Twilight stepped out of the bathroom soaking wet, with a look of rage in her eyes that I only ever saw one other time in my life.

When I saw Twilight's eyes, I could do nothing but, back away in fear. If looks could kill, the one she gave me would have sent me to my husband.

"Twilight? Are you okay?"

"Am I okay? AM I OKAY?" Twilight screamed at me. "No, I'm not okay. Tell me, Cadance. Do you not know what happened? Apparently you do, seeing how you knew I was back in my old room," she said, while spitting at my hooves. "You don't care about me, you abandoned me, just like everypony else!"

"No, Twilight. That's not true, I care about you very much, just as much as I care about Shining," I told her, as I tried to quell the fear in my hooves.

"Then tell me why... why didn't you come see me when my wife left this world? I came and helped you when my brother passed away. You knew I was having a hard time watching my friends pass away. Why didn't you come when I asked you to? And why haven’t you replied to any of my letters?"

"I haven't received any letters from you in six years, Twilight," I told her, as I teleported the first letter Celestia sent me the other day. "Celestia sent me this letter, asking for my help last night. I figured I could see you while I was here. When I got here though, she told me she needed my help with you, cause you haven't taken Fluttershy’s death well. Which I didn't even know happened till she told me when I was speaking to her just moments ago," I said, the fear in my hooves finally calming down.

"So you came when Princess Celestia asked, but not when I asked? How does that work?"

"Twilight, please listen to me..." I started to speak, before Twilight interrupted me.

"No, Cadance. I don't want to hear what you have to say and I don't need your help either. I just want you to get out of my room," Twilight told me, as she turned around, opening the bedroom door with her magic, a clear sign she wanted me to leave, but I had to try one more time.

"Please Twilight. I know I wasn't here before, but I'm here now."

"Leave. Now. I won't ask a third time," she said, walking back into the bathroom.

I watched as Twilight closed the bathroom door, leaving me alone. I looked over at the open bedroom door and walked out, hanging my head low.

After closing the door, I decided to teleport to my room so other ponies wouldn't see me in my down ridden state.

Appearing in my room, my head hung low, I looked around and noticed my bags on my bed. Walking over to my bed, I opened one of my bags and pulled out a golden diamond horn ring.

"Shining Armor," I said out loud, holding my wedding ring in my magic. "What can I do? All the love I once felt inside of Twilight, is now gone. I wanna do whatever I can to help her, since without her, I would have never been able to continue without you,” I said, pulling the ring close. 

After returning my wedding ring into my bag, I laid down on my bed, and slowly drifted off to sleep thinking about the lavender alicorn, whom I once shared a very special friendship with.

> Love's Dimming (Twilight)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 4: Love’s Dimming
Twilight

"Spike," I said out loud, sitting in front of an old gravestone, tears in my eyes."Why did you sacrifice yourself for me?”

Looking up at the gravestone, it read, 'Spike Sparkle, Loyal Friend, Loving Son, Wise Dragon.'

"You had so much to live for. So much potential. I remember when you told me you thought of me as your mother, not just your friend or sister. It truly made me think about how I felt about you," as I spoke, my mind drifted off into the past.


*	*	*


"Spike, can you come here please?" I called out.

"Sure, Twilight. I'll be right there," I heard my number one assistant call back to me.

As Spike ran up to me, I smiled at him, thankful he was so quick.

"What did you need, mo-Twilight?" Spike said, almost slipping on his words.

I thought he had started my name with a "mo" sound but didn't look at it too much at the time.

"Could you run an errand for me? I need this book taken to AJ," I said, levitating a book into his claws.

"Why Applejack? What would she want a book for?" Spike asked, looking at the book.

"It's a book about different apple trees that she wants. Would you take it to her for me Spike? I would go myself but I have stuff to do here. You can even stay there and hang out with the crusaders, if you want."

“No problem, Twilight,” my number one assistant said, placing the book under his arm as he turned to leave.

“Make sure you don’t stay out too late.”

“Okay. I’ll see you later, Twi,” he said, leaving to take the book to AJ.

Hours later, I was starting to worry about Spike. Luna had already brought out the moon and it was getting high into the night sky, and he still wasn’t back.

“Where are you, Spike? You shoulda been home already,” I said outloud to myself.

My ears perked up, as I heard the front door squeak open. I rushed downstairs from my bedroom just in time to see Spike trying and failing to close to the door quietly, possibly hoping I was already asleep.

“Spike, where have you been?” I asked, after the door had been fully closed.

Spike jumped in surprise, and slowly turned around to face me. “Hey, Twilight. I thought you would already be in bed,” he said, sheepishly. 

“Its kinda hard to sleep when you're worried about somepony you care about.”

“Sorry, mom. I didn’t mean to worry you,” Spike said, clamping a claw over his mouth as he realized what he had said.

For my part, my eyes went wide and my wings bulged out slightly, I still hadn’t been able to fully control them at the time, at being called “mom” and not in a sarcastic tone either.

"Spike, what did you just call me?" I asked, confused as to why he would call me mom.

"I DIDN'T CALL YOU MOM, I SWEAR ON CELESTIA I DIDN'T," Spike replied rather loudly, waving his claws around.

"Spike, please don't lie to me. I promise I won't be mad, just tell me why you called me mom," I asked him, calmly smiling at him.

Spike dropped his arms to his side and I noticed him sigh, like he always did when I caught him in a lie.

"You want me to be completely honest right?" He asked nervously.

"Yes."

"I called you mom, cause I have always thought of you as my mother. I always wanted to tell you, but I was worried how you would take it. You always said you thought of me as a little brother,” he told me, looking down, playing with his claws.

I was unable to reply to what he had told me. I always thought of him as my little brother, and here he tells me that he thinks of me as his mother. What should I have said, or done? I was confused by this turn of events. 

Moments later, I was able to reply.

“I don’t know what to say, Spike. I care about you deeply, but I’ve never thought about anything like this before.”

“It’s ok, Twi. You don’t have to say anything. I promise I won’t bring it up again,” Spike told me, as he turned around and left, hanging his head low. 

I could tell he was depressed that I wasn’t able to say anything to him about it, but what could I say? I was confused at the time. 

About a week passed, and I could not get what Spike had told me out of my head. I had to talk to him and at least give him closure to this ordeal, since he was also a little distant this week.

“Spike, can you come here? I need to talk to you about something,” I called out to him. It was time to get this settled.

Spike came walking into the room, smiling at me as he replied, “What’s up, Twi?”

Even though his smile I could tell he was sad.

“I wanted to talk to you about what happened last week, and wanted to ask you a question.”

“I thought we agreed we didn’t need to talk about this?” 

“Sorry to break this to you, Spike. But I never agreed to anything. So will you answer my question?” I asked, smiling down at him sweetly.

“What did you wanna ask me?” He said, hanging his head low.

“Why do you think of me as your mother?”

“What?”

“I wanna know ‘why’ you think of me as your mother, Spike,” I said, putting emphasis on why.

“Do you wanna know everything?”

“Everything you're willing to tell me.”

Spike raised his claw and scratched his chin, most likely trying to think of how to start.

“Well, for starters, you were the one who hatched me out of my egg. Second, you always looked after me. Third, whenever I got sick, you stayed at my side and helped me get better,” Spike began to tell me.

He continued in this vein for awhile. I honestly can’t remember everything he told me; he had so much to say. Listening to him list off reasons for thinking of me as his mother though made me think about it. I could plainly see why he thought of me as his mother.

“Finally, you always find time to just, ‘be’ with me, be it by reading a book with me or just hanging out with me. Even though you're now a princess,” Spike said, finishing his list.

“Okay first off, I turned down Celestia’s offer to become princess. Second, I may be a ‘High Lady’ now because of my alicorn status, but I would always find time to spend with you. And third, listening to your list, I can honestly see, why you would see me as your mother,” I said, smiling at him gently.

I saw him smile at me, but could see still a small sadness in his eyes, so I strode forward and embraced him in a hug, using my hooves and my wings.

“Remember this, Spike. I’ll always care about you, and love you,” I told him, releasing him slightly so I could look at him in the eyes. “But I think today, our relationship changes.”

“What do you mean changes?” he asked, looking at me slightly scared.

“I mean, I don’t think I can think about you as my little brother anymore,” I saw him become crestfallen as I said this. I lifted his chin to look at me, as I continued to speak, “but that is not a bad thing, Spike. Everything you said about me, is true, and when I think about it the more I realize that, I can’t be your sister. But I can be your mother, if you’ll have me as such,” I finished, smiling at him.

I saw his eyes grow wide, as he took in what I had just said. As everything I said came into play, he embraced me in the biggest hug he had ever given me and I returned it. 

“Oh thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou! Idon’thavetohideitanymore,” he said, speaking as fast as Pinkie, I could barely understand him. He looked up at me smiling as he asked, “would it be okay if I call you mom?”

I couldn't hear his last three words, but I knew what he was asking.

“Of course you can. What kind of mother would I be, if I didn’t let you call me as such? And I don’t care who knows, call me mom anytime you want. I actually kinda enjoyed it when you called me it last time, was just surprised that you did though.”

“Thank you, mom,” he said softly, as he leaned into my chest as we stayed embraced for a while, enjoying our new mother son relationship.

*	*	*


“That day, everything changed between the two of us, didn’t it? The girls were so shocked when they heard you call me mom for the first time, we spent a good hour and a half explaining everything to them,” I said out loud, sitting in front of my son's grave.

“How long has it been since Equestria and Drakonia signed the treaty? Twenty-eight years right? Did you know that after you saved my life, the dragon king, Bahamut, came before Tia, Luna, and myself. He asked to meet us on neutral ground to talk about the treaty,” I looked down at the grave before me.

A tear ran down my cheek, memories of holding my son in my hooves as he died ran through my head. 

“The day you died, was one of the most painful of my life. I always knew I’d lose Shy to the sands of time, but I never thought I’d lose you the way I did,” looking up at the grave, another tear fell down my face. “I love you, Spike, but I have to leave now. I’ll try and visit more often.”

I turned away from my son’s grave and lit my horn with an old teleportation spell. Turning my head back to the grave, I took one more glance as my spell fired.

My teleportation spell brought me back to my room. 

I walked into the bathroom hoping to relax after the visit to my son’s grave. Closing the door after I walked in, I lit a incense candle, knowing they were one of the few things that could help me after such a visit.

After filling the bathtub and stepping into it, I submerged my entire body. Leaning against the edge of the tub, I began to relax.

After becoming relaxed, I dunked my head under the water. As I went under, I took a deep breath.

While holding my breath under the water, I thought I heard my name being called. Thinking it was just Rose calling out for me, I came up to see if I would hear my name again. 

Instead of hearing my name being called I heard hoofsteps in my bedroom.

“Rose, is that you in there?” I called, thinking she needed me.

“No, Twilight. It’s me, Cadance. I came to see you.” 

The moment I heard my former foalsitters voice, I froze for a second. 

“Cadance!” I yelled out, in anger.

I stepped out of the bath gritting my teeth, as I thought of the pony who abandoned me. She hasn’t returned any of my letters in over six years. Why would she even think to visit me face to face?

I opened the bathroom door and stepped outside, still soaking wet. There she was, the “Princess of Love”. The pony who told me she would always be there when I needed her. Looking at her my face contorted into one of pure rage, Only once in my life had I ever felt this angry at any pony.

“Twilight? Are you okay?” Cadance asked me, stepping back slightly, most likely at the look in my eyes.

“Am I okay? AM I OKAY?” I screamed in rage. “No, I’m not okay. Tell me, Cadance. Do you not know what happened? Apparently you do, seeing how you knew I was back in my old room,” I told her, spitting at her hooves. “You don’t care about me, you abandoned me, just like everypony else!”

"No, Twilight. That’s not true, I care about you very much, just as much as I care about Shining.”

Looking at her, I could tell she was scared. Who could blame her? When Spike was killed, Celestia told me that she was scared, that my rage was making my magic go insane. I took a deep breath, calming down.

After I calmed down I spoke, “Then tell me why... why didn’t you come see me when my wife left this world? I came and helped you when my brother passed away. You knew I was having a hard time watching my friends pass away. Why didn’t you come when I asked you to? And why haven’t you replied to any of my letters?”

“I haven’t received any letters from you in six years, Twilight,” she told me, teleporting a scroll to herself. “Celestia sent me this letter, asking for my help last night. I figured I could see you while I was here. When I got here though, she told me she needed my help with you, cause you haven’t taken Fluttershy’s death well. Which I didn’t even know happened till she told me when I was speaking to her just moments ago.” 

I could tell she had calmed down after I had.

“So you came when Princess Celestia asked, but not when I asked? How does that work?” I asked.

“Twilight, please listen to me...” she started to speak, but I interrupted her.

“No, Cadance. I don’t want to hear what you have to say and I don’t need your help either. I just want you to get out of my room,” I told her, turning around facing the bathroom. I also opened my bedroom door with my magic hoping she would take the hint.

“Please, Twilight. I know I wasn’t here before, but I’m here now.”

“Leave. Now. I won’t ask a third time,” I said, stepping back into the bathroom and closing the door.

Shortly after closing the bathroom door, I heard my bedroom door close as well. Hearing my door close I was finally able to relax, knowing Cadance had left me alone. I stepped back into the bathtub, deciding I needed to finish my bath.

My ears perked up hearing my bedroom door open. My anger started rising again thinking Cadance had come back.

“Mi’lady? Have you returned?” upon hearing Rose’s soft voice, I relaxed again.

“Yes, Rose. I'm in the bath right now. Is there something you need?”

“No, ma’am. Was just wondering if you were okay after your visit today. I remember what happened last time you went,” Rose said sweetly. I could tell by the sound of her voice she was right outside my bathroom door.

“Thank you for your concern, but I’m fine Rose. Just had a difficult visit today after I returned to my room.” 

“Would you be willing to tell me about it, mi’lady?” Rose asked.

Bless her heart. She always tries to help me, and I never show her any appreciation. In these last six years, she’s the only pony who has been at my side. It’s all because of Princess Celestia that I’m in this state anyway. Maybe I should try and talk about it to Rose.

“Give me time to finish my bath. Afterwards, yes, I would be willing to tell you about it,” I said, slightly louder then normal so she could hear me.

Once I finished my bath, I dried off and walked into my bedroom. I saw Rose waiting for me with a smile on her face.

“Let’s sit by the fireplace,” I said, walking over and sitting down on a cushion.
	

> Love's Dawning (Cadance)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 5: Love’s Dawning
Cadance

I woke up, gasping for breath. It was that dream again, the one about the past.

'Why am I still having that dream? It's been twenty years since Shining left this world behind and yet, I keep having that dream about the day of his death,' I thought to myself, placing my head into my hooves. 'Why am I cursed to relive his death so much?'

I walked into the bathroom after pulling myself from underneath the warm blankets of my bed. Straightening my mane and tail, memories of last night came back to the forefront of my mind. 

'If you would have let me help her, Twilight wouldn't be like she is now, Celestia.' I thought to myself, still angry with my aunt.

My stomach grumbled slightly, realizing no food had been given to it at all yesterday. Giggling, I decided it was time to head for the kitchens to get something to sate my hunger.

It only took a few minutes to reach the kitchens. When I entered, I took notice of a young pegasus speaking with the chef.

"Zo, how iz Lady Twilight this morning, Rose?" the griffon chef asked, with an older griffon accent.

"She's doing fine from what I can tell, although I haven't seen her yet. She had a rough night."

'Rough night? What could’ve happened to her?' I thought to myself, after over-hearing the young pegasus speak.

"Give me a few minutez, i'll whip up zomething special for her, that might make her feel better," the chef spoke, turning around to cook, apparently.

The pegasus turned around and took a seat, so I decided to approach her.

"Hello there," I said, walking up to the pegasus.

The pegasus looked up at me. She fumbled around getting up to bow to me.

"Princess Cadenza, it's a pleasure to see you in Canterlot," the light red pegasus greeted me.

As she bowed, I noticed something odd about her but decided to push it to the back of my mind for the moment.

"You do not have to bow to me. May I ask who are you?" I inquired the young pegasus, while I had heard her name already it would be rude of me to say I learned it over hearing her talking.

“Of course, princess. My name is Rose, I’m High Lady Twilight’s hoofmaiden.”

“Hoofmaiden? I didn’t think Twilight would like the idea of having one.”

“She didn’t at first. She pushed me away a lot. Over time though, she warmed up to me and lets me help her from time to time,” Rose told me, smiling.

“Rose. Lady Twilight’z breakfast iz ready,” I heard the griffon chef call out.

“Thank you, I’ll grab it in just a moment,” Rose called back, before turning back to me. “Forgive me princess, but I should take this to Lady Twilight,” she said, giving me a small bow. 

I watched her walk over to the tray of food, and walk out of the kitchen, wondering the entire time who, exactly, this mare was.

I shook my head clear of the  thoughts, my belly reminding me why I had come to the kitchen in the first place.

Walking up to the chef I spoke, “Hello, Gustuv. How’s your family in the Empire?”

Gustuv turned around to face me, smiling.

“They are doing very well princezz. The youngest moved out just a few yearz ago,” he answered, turning back around to clean a few dishes while speaking with me. “And how iz the Cryztal City fairing?”

“It’s doing well for itself. Most problems settle themselves now, but there are still a few I have to settle,” I said, smiling at him. My cheeks flushed in embarrassment as my belly grumbled loud and clear, a few moments later.

Gustuv turned to look at me, an eyebrow raised, right before he started laughing.

“Oh, now I zee why you vizit me. You only want zome of Gustuv’s food don’t ja,” he said, still laughing.

“Okay, I admit. The main reason I came down here was for food, but I also didn’t know you would still be here after ten years. How long have you been the chef here now? Forty years? Fifty maybe?”

He bellowed in laughter again before saying, “Fifty three and ztill counting, dear princezz. And you bezt not be thinking I’ll be retiring anytime zoon. Cause I’m not, you hear?” His laugh died quickly after that, before letting out a sigh. “After all, who elze knowz what Twilight likez? I ztill remember when zhe and Shy would come visit the princezz’. If zomepony were to take my place, Twilight would never get anything zhe enjoyz.”

“What do you...” I started to say, before my stomach growled, making my face turn red. 

“Why don’t we get you zomething to eat before we continue to zpeak?” Gustav said turning his head away from me. I watched his talons move quickly making me a small breakfast. “Here you go princezz. Just the way you like it, if memory zervez me right. Zmall Zalad just a pinch of drezzing and a zunflower pedal and daizy zandwhich.”

“Even after ten years, you still remember what I like. Thank you, Gustav,” I said to him, using my magic to take a bite of the sandwich. “And you still remember how many pedals I like to give it that extra flavor.”

“Of courze, princezz. Az head chef here in Canterlot Caztle, it iz my job to know,” Gustav said, smiling at me. “Now what were you zaying?”

Finishing my sandwich, I looked at Gustav and asked, “What do you mean she would never get anything she likes? Wouldn’t she just tell the new chef?”

“Oh, ja. Sorry, I forgot you haven’t been here since Lady Zhy’s death. Well you see, Twilight is rarely zeen anymore. In the last five yearz, I have only zeen her maybe ten timez in all.”

My eyes shot open hearing this. Even Gustav hadn’t seen her very much? I was hoping he might be able to help.

“Would you happen to know anypony who has regular contact with Twilight?”

“Why are you azking?” Gustav asked, his eyebrow raised.

“I wanna see if I can bring Twilight back to us. I saw her the other day, but she wouldn’t even let me talk to her, and very quickly told me to leave.”

“Then I would zay to zpeak with Lady Rose. Zhe’z the only pony who iz able to speak to Twilight much. Forgive me princezz, but I must start preparing food for Princezz Celestia and her guests from the Empire that will be arriving soon,” Gustav said, bowing lightly to me before turning around. 

“Thanks for your help, Gustav.”

“Anytime.”

Watching Gustav walk off, I began to think about that red pegasus I had spoken to just a few minutes ago.

'Maybe I should go find her. If what Gustav said is right, she may be able to help me with Twilight.' I thought to myself, walking out of the kitchen, and deciding to walk towards Twilight's room hoping to see Rose on the way.

After walking some distance through the castle, I came close to the stairwell that lead up to Twilight’s tower bedroom.

My ears twitched, hearing hoofsteps coming from the stairs. I looked up the stairwell to notice the red pegasus I was hoping to find, coming down.

“Rose?” I called up the stairs.

Rose looked up and smiled at me before saying, “Yes princess? Is there something I can help you with?”

I smiled back at Rose before I said, “I was wondering if I could speak to you for a little bit? It’s about Twilight.”

“It would be my pleasure princess. Where would you like to talk?”

“In my room, if we could. So we can have some privacy.”

She dropped into a small bow before saying, “If that is what you wish, princess.”

I turned around and motioned for the pegasus to follow me.

We walked down the hallways in silence before reaching the door to my bedroom. I opened the bedroom door and walked in, holding it open for Rose to come in as well. After she had walked in and the door was closed, I took a seat on some cushions that sat near the fireplace.

“Make yourself comfortable, Rose," I said, smiling at the red pegasus.

"Of course princess," she answered taking the cushion across from me.

"If you would Rose, please, call me Cadance. I’m not that keen on being formal, plus I’m not talking to you as a princess right now. I'm talking to you as a pony worried about her friend.”

“Are you sure, princess?” Rose replied, looking nervous.

“I’m sure,” I said, giving her a gentle smile.

“As you wish, Cadance. What did you want to talk to me about regarding Lady Twilight?”

“I was wondering how Twilight has been doing for the six years since Fluttershy died.”

I saw Rose let out a sigh before speaking, “I thought that would be what you wanted to speak to me about. I'm guessing Gustav told you I'm Lady Twilight’s hoofmaiden and I might be able to answer you since I'm the only pony who really gets to see her?”

My jaw fell open, hearing her words. She knew exactly what I wanted and how I knew to see her, but how?

“How did you know all that?” I asked, still shocked.

“I'm able to see between the lines of many things. My cutie mark may not represent my talent very clearly, but almost nopony can lie to me and get away with it, as I see right through it, most of the time, and figuring out why you wanted to see me was not that hard seeing how Lady Twilight told me of your encounter last night,” Rose said with a smile.

“That’s a really impressive talent, Rose,” I said, smiling as I stole a look at her cutie mark.

A wilting black rose, adorned her flanks.

“A lot of ponies think I’m bad luck though because of my name.”

“Why would ponies think ‘Rose’ is bad luck?”

        “My real name is actually Wilting Rose. My mother wasn’t to keen on me when I was born a pegasus instead of a unicorn like her.”

        “I’m sorry to hear that, Rose, but I don’t think that about you.”

“Thanks, Cadance,” Rose said, smiling at me. “So anyway. Let’s get down to business. What exactly did you want to ask me about Lady Twilight? Besides how she’s doing.”

“I’ve been out of contact with Twilight for six years, and when I tried to visit her yesterday she just blew me off. Aunt Tia told me she wasn’t the same as she was, but I didn’t think it was this bad.” I said, sinking my head down into the cushions.

“Perhaps she blew you off because she believes you abandoned her in her time of need?”

“Why would she think that thou....” I started to said, before remembering what we ‘talked’ about the night before. “She thinks I abandoned her because I wasn’t there for her when Fluttershy died, doesn’t she?”

“Sad to say, but yes,” Rose said calmly. “From what she told me, I thought you did it in an angst of grief, but talking to you now, I see that I was wrong. Something happened that meant you couldn't help her, couldn't come to her side? Is that right?”

“Something called my aunt, yes.”

“Princess Celestia? What do you mean?”

“Ten years ago, an uprising started in the Crystal City. Ponies thinking it would be better if we reformed the empire and broke off from Equestria. It only ended two days ago,” I sunk a little deeper into the cushion, speaking about the uprising was not an easy topic. “I haven't received any letters from Twilight in six years. I was worried, but I had to focus on the uprising as much as I could. The other day Celestia sent me a letter asking me to come to Canterlot, if I could, to help her with something. I spoke with her yesterday.” 

   “Did she tell you what she needed help with?” Rose inquired.

“Twilight,” I said softly, so softly that Rose couldn’t hear me. “Celestia took me to the ‘Meadow of Remembrance’. The first thing that I noticed was that there was a fifth gravestone there, one that wasn’t there the last time that I visited. When I realized it was Shy’s grave, I nearly lost it knowing how much pain Twilight must be in. I rushed to see Twilight, to see how she was for myself, and you know how well that turned out.”

“What does this have to do with Princess Celestia stopping you from helping lady Twilight?” Rose asked me, with an eyebrow raised.

“She used her magic to stop Twilight’s letters from getting to me so I wouldn’t be distracted from the uprising,” I laid my head on my forelegs to get comfortable as I continued to speak. “While I understand her wanting to make sure the Crystal City was safe, she should have known I wouldn’t have let this stop me from protecting the ponies in the Crystal City. I would have been able to help Twilight and still protect the Crystal City.”

“I’m sorry that the princess did this to you Cadance. I wish I could do something to help, but I’m just a hoofmaiden,” Rose said, dejectedly.

“I was hoping you would be willing to help me, Rose.”

“What help could I possibly be?”

“My special talent is love. When I spoke to Twilight I couldn’t feel any of the love I used to feel from her. I think if we can show her somepony does still love and care about her, she might start coming back,” I said, raising up onto my flanks.

“I still don’t understand how I can help.”

“You’re close to Twilight. Perhaps you could tell me if she still likes the same stuff that I remember.” I said, smiling at Rose.

“Of course, Cadance, but what are you planning to do?”

“Reignite her love, by showing her that there are ponies who love her . I’m going to try using a love letter from a secret admirer.” I said, smiling at my plan.

“I’m not sure that would work, Cadance. Lady Twilight receives many love letters, and she just throws them away without reading them.”

“What if the letter had a small gift? Something we know she likes?”

“That might work, but what gift are you thinking about?”

“Does Twilight still have a fondness for lilacs?” I asked, wondering if her favorite flower had changed in the time that I had been gone.

Rose sat still for a few moments her hoof on her chin, most liking trying to think.

“I believe she does, yes.”

“Perfect. Then that will be the gift, plus the letter will acknowledge the flower as her favorite,” I said, smiling. “But where can I get fresh lilacs?”

“I know where lilacs grow, Cadance. Would you like me to fetch a bouquet?”

“Not a bouquet. If you could get me three, that would be perfect, thanks Rose.” I said, getting up and moving over to my bag to get some paper to start writing the love letter that I hoped would help my dear Twilight.

As Rose left my bedroom, I placed the piece of parchment on the desk to begin.

I began to write thinking a simple love letter would suffice, but as I wrote I realized for a first time letter, Twilight would not enjoy it.

I changed my writing trying to think of small, sweet poems.

I heard a series of soft knocks coming from my door, as I finished writing my letter down.

"Come in,” I called out, figuring it was Rose with the lilacs I asked for, as I looked over what I wrote.

I looked over as my door opened and saw Rose enter with three lilacs under her wing. I smiled at her as she closed the door.

“Here are those lilacs, prince... I mean Cadance,” she said, fidgeting slightly as she was probably still nervous about calling me Cadance.

“Thank you very much,” I said, before looking at the wing that wasn't holding the flowers. “Please forgive me for asking, but what happened to your right wing? It looks injured. You need not tell me if you don't wish to though. I won’t ask again if you don't want to speak about it.”

“It’s alright, Cadance. My wing has been like this for years now. I was living on the streets here in Canterlot for a long time. One day I got cornered in an alley, and was beat pretty badly. The stallion that attacked me broke several of my ribs, one of my legs, and my wing. He was about to rape me when High Lady Twilight found me. She blasted the stallion off me and thats the last thing that I remember, I passed out due to the pain,” as Rose was talking she took a seat on a cuison near the desk.

“Do you know what happened next?” I asked, concerned for what Rose had gone through.

“I was told High Lady Twilight picked me up and ran me to Canterlot Castle for medical treatment. When I woke up, I was in the castle med wing. I could hear some chatter from outside the door. Only thing I heard was, ‘Somepony has to tell her, High Lady.’ When I heard ‘High Lady’ I remembered what had happened to me, the stallion that attacked me, and how High Lady Twilight had stopped him,” Rose laid down as she continued to speak. “After a few minutes, High Lady Twilight came into the room and saw me awake, she rushed over to my side and asked if I was okay. I told her I was, but after that she asked me about my parents,” Rose’s hooves started fidgeting. “I told her I didn’t have any parents, that there were killed when I was younger. Lady Twilight looked stunned when she heard this. She told me she had some bad news, she was hoping she could tell my parents and they tell me, but since I didn’t have any she would have to instead.”

“The news was about your wing wasn’t it?”

Rose nodded her head and started to speak again.

“Yes. She told me that, when the doctors checked up on me, nearly every bone in my wing had been crushed, and it would probably never heal right. Forgive me Cadance, but we should finish. I need to head for Lady Twilight’s room in a little while.” 

“I understand, Rose. What do you think about this?” I asked, hoofing over a small note.

Dear Lady Twilight,

Enjoy these flowers and these words.

Three Lilac Blossoms,
Sweet in fragrance they await,
A lavender kiss.

Yours Truly,
        A Secret Admirer


“To be honest, Cadance.  I believe Lady Twilight would just throw something like this away.”

“What makes you say that?” I asked, confused as to why Twilight would throw away something like this.

“I’ve seen her throw away notes similar to this before,” she said, handing the note back to me.

I sighed and tossed the note into the trash. 

"Would you happen to know something we could do?" I inquired, looking at Rose.

“Give her a puzzle, leading into a small note?”

“A puzzle?” I said, placing my hoof on my chin trying to think of a puzzle. “Books! You said she has always thrown away any note she gets right?”

“Yes? What about that? And what does that have to do with books?” Rose asked, her head tilted, giving me a weird look.

“A Starswirl Cipher, connected to a certain book. Twilight would never throw away a book,” I said, smiling.

Rose placed her hoof under her chin thinking before talking.

“I think you may be onto something. A Starswirl Cipher might be the key. Also you are right, she wouldn’t throw away a book. I always see her reading some of the books in her personal library. I just have one question, Cadance. What book would you use?” Rose inquired, looking intrigued about my idea.

“I think I’ll use ‘Road to Friendship’. I know it doesn’t have anything to do with love, but I thought I would start small, and lead into something to do with love later. Plus if I use a book that has some significance, it might help,” I said, looking at the bookshelf to see if the book I needed was there, sadly it was not. “Damn. Was hopping the book would be in here,” I said letting out a sigh.

 “If you want me to, I can go get it. The bookstore should still be open, Lady Twilight sends me there at times to pick up a few books,” Rose offered.

“That would be wonderful, Rose. Thank you very much,” I said to her, smiling.

Rose smiled back at me, before getting up and heading for the door, before stopping. She turned around and looked at me for a moment.

“Cadance, If I may ask, why ‘Road to Friendship’? You said something about having significance, but that book doesn’t seem like it.”

I smiled at Rose and began to speak, “that book, was actually the first book Twilight had the former Archmage read when she took her under her wing. Twilight was in truth, her first friend, and both of them held a very special friendship towards the other.”

I saw Rose’s eyes go wide hearing that.

“I never knew that about the Archmage,” Rose said, turning around and leaving to retrieve the book.

I turned around and went back to the desk, excited and ready to start working on the cipher.

> Path of Friendship (Twilight)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Authors Note: Wanted to warn you all now, the Chapter Titles as you noticed with this one will be different from this point on. Think of this as Phase 2 of "Love's Light: Is it Possible to Love Again?"


Chapter 6: Path of Friendship
Twilight

I turned over in my bed. Somepony was knocking on my door.

"Mi'lady? Are you awake?"Rose called through the door.

        “Yes, I am.” I said loud enough for Rose to hear me through the door, before using my magic to unlock it.

        As I climbed out of my bed,  Rose walked into the room, a small bag on her back.

        “Give me a few minutes to freshen up, Rose.” I said, walking into my bathroom to work through my daily routine.

Rose was waiting beside my desk when I came out of the bathroom.

“What did you bring with you?” I asked, walking closer to Rose.

“Your mail, mi’lady. I stopped and picked it up for you.” Rose said, dumping the contents of the bag onto the desk.

I stepped forward to take a look at what came in the mail till I noticed Rose reaching under her wing and pulling something out wrapped in paper, before placing it on the desk.

“What’s the gift for Rose?” I asked, wondering why she would bring me a gift.

“It’s not from me, mi’lady. It was with your mail.”

I sighed out loud before speaking, “Probably another love letter and worthless gift. I really get tired of these.” 

When Rose moved off to the side, I took a seat in front of my desk to sort through the mail.

After a few minutes of sorting and throwing away almost eighty-seven point eight two percent of the mail away without looking at it, due to it all being love letters. I looked at the gift debating on whether or not I should throw it away.

I sighed, pulling the gift closer. Seeing a note attached to it, I opened it up and looked at what it read.

Flowers for fragrance,
Parchment bound by leather,
A great cipher by a great stallion,

May you understand the back
of this.

I looked at the note confused. I expected a love letter, not something like this. I turned the letter over to see a jumble of numbers.

3-4-16                41-8-4          32-6-55
6-1-35                26-7-53        13-8-16
2-4-21                19-1-35        38-5-16
9-7-24                18-9-32        49-3-47
23-4-31              62-5-41        5-9-12
4-3-64


        I looked over the small note again to see if I missed anything, and did not.

        “Rose? This note says something about flowers, do you know what it might mean?” I asked.

        “Perhaps these lilacs? Sorry mi’lady, I forgot to tell you about them. But I placed them in a vase for you.”

        When I heard lilacs I immediately turned around, and saw three lilacs sitting in a small vase next to my bed. Why would they send lilacs to me? I turned my attention back to the gift on my desk.

        I turned back to my desk and slowly took off the wrapping paper. As the last of the paper fell off, I dropped the book that was inside it onto the desk shocked.

        ‘Somepony sent me a book? I've never had anyone send me a book since Shy died. I don’t understand.’ I thought to myself looking at the book.

        It was an old book I once used to help start my former student on the right path. ‘Road to Friendship’. As I stared at the book my mind flashed into the past.

                                = = = = LL:IPLA = = = =

        I opened the door to the library and walked inside, the smell of a wood fire filling the room. I turned my head and saw my student next to the fireplace, a book floating in her magic. I closed the door and walked over to her, to see what she was reading.


        Floating in her magic, was the first book I assigned her to read when I took her under my wing.


        “Why are you reading ‘Road to Friendship’ again?” I asked, curious.


        She turned to look at me with a smile on her face before speaking, “I was reading it again since it is the reason I have the friends I have today, and I remember when you basically shoved this book down my throat to read.”


        I giggled when I heard her say that.


        “And where would you be if I didn’t, as you say, ‘shove it down your throat’?” I asked sarcastically. 


        “Probably the same place you found me at,” she said, smiling at me. “Thank you again, Twilight. For giving me this chance.”


        “You don’t need to thank me. I did what I did because it was the right thing to do. You have turned out to be a great student.”

                                = = = = LL:IPLA = = = = 

        I looked down at the book, remembering my former student. At first she was arrogant, but over time I was able to break through to her and help her make friends. This book was what started it.

        I looked back at the note trying to understand what was written.

        ‘Flowers for fragrance would refer to the lilacs. Parchment bound by leather would refer to the book. What does ‘A great cipher by a great stallion’ refer to though?’ I thought to myself turning the note over again to look at the numbers.

        ‘Wait. Cipher. A code! These numbers must be a cipher to understand something. But what kind of cipher is it?’

        I looked over the note and the numbers one last time before I understood. 

        ‘A Starswirl Cipher. A great cipher by a great stallion. Why did I not see that?’ I berated myself.

        I opened my desk and pulled out a piece of parchment, hoping to decode this cipher.

        “Mi’lady? Are you okay?” Rose asked from behind me. “What did you get?”

        “Its a book and Starswirl Cipher.” I replied, without looking up from the parchment, note and book while pulling a quill and ink over.

        “A Starswirl Cipher?” I heard Rose whistle. “That fan must be good, you rarely see ponies now a days make one. You think it’s connected to the book?”

        “The cipher was on the back of the note with the book. So it’s a high possibility.” My head shot up thinking about what Rose just said, and turned to look at her. “You know what a Starswirl Cipher is?”

        I saw Rose over by the fireplace, throwing a few logs in for the next time it was lit as she spoke.

        “I do mi’lady. I heard about it when I was young, and found out what it was. Though it has been years since I’ve seen one.”

        I turned my head back to the parchment to work on the cipher.

        I followed the cipher, flipping through pages in the book and counting words. First finding the right page. Then the right paragraph, followed by the word.

        Friendship. The first word of the cipher. A word that had not been on my mind in a long time. 

        As I continued to work on the cipher, I noticed Rose busying herself with moving a few things around, near my bed and the fireplace. 

        After a couple of minutes of working, I finished the cipher. I had read what I had wrote on the parchment, my magic staggering before dropping the quill.

        Friendship will always remain,
        Even in the darkest moments.
        Remember these words.
                Yours Truly,
                        Secret Admirer.

        A book about friendship, and a note about friendship. Whoever this ‘Secret Admirer’ was, they sure knew how to pull me into the past. I started to think about my former student again.

        ‘Perhaps I should visit her?’ I thought to myself.

        I looked down at the note one last time, before deciding I would visit my former student.

“Rose.”

“Yes mi’lady?” she answered, looking over at me while placing my bedsheets back onto the bed.

“I’m going to be heading out for just a little bit. You go ahead and enjoy the rest of the day,” I told her, walking to my bedroom door to head out.

“As you wish, mi’lady.” 

I smiled at Rose as I headed out the door and down the hallway. After I had walked down the stairs and to the front door of the castle, I headed for Wisdom’s Empyrean that lies just inside the castle gates.

Passing by a flowerbed, I plucked a single tulip for my student.

I saw two guards standing outside Wisdom’s Empyrean and greeted them as I passed by, heading inside. Within Wisdom’s Empyrean, I took in the sight of all the graves of Archmages past. I walked down one lane of graves, looking at the statues that adorned each one, so everypony could see what they had looked like. 

The most well known Archmage was one pony I looked up to from the time I was a little filly. Starswirl the Bearded. One of the greatest Archmages Equestria has ever known. He was my idol and, even to this day, I always try to ask myself “What would he do?”

I passed by Starswirl’s grave, bowing my head in respect, heading for a different grave.

After passing the graves of many Archmage’s, I finally reached the one I wanted and sat down before it. I looked up to see my student’s face carved into the statue.

Looking down at me was my former student in the robes that her wife had hoof stitched for her.

“It’s good to see you again. I hope you can forgive this old mare for not visiting more often,” I said, looking at the statue. “I know its been a long time since I last visited, and I’m sorry about that.”

I looked up into my students eyes.

“I remember the day you came to me, asking me to be your teacher. You were so nervous, but I couldn’t find out what was bothering you at first,” I looked up into the statue’s eyes. “To say I was shocked to hear that was an understatement.” As I finished speaking, memories of the past flowed into my mind.

                                = = = = LL:IPLA = = = =

I was laying down underneath a tree at the park, as I read a book. I had invited my friends to come for a picnic but sadly, none of them could make it.


I was only there for half an hour before a light colored mare trotted up to me. 


“Hey Twilight, how are you?” 


I looked up and smiled, setting my book to the side. I got up and gave her a hug.


“I didn’t know you were in town this week. When did you get here?” I asked, after releasing the hug.

“I only just got into town a couple of minutes ago.” the unicorn mare said.


“Either way its good to see you again. My duties as High Lady keeps me away a lot sometimes, so we don't get to see each other as often as we’d like.” I said smiling at her. “Would you like to join me for a small picnic? I brought enough for extra.”


“I’d like that.” she said smiling at me, though the tone in her voice was strange.


We spoke as we ate our food, enjoying each others company. All through our conversations though I would notice her eyes moving back and forth, a clear sign she was nervous, but of what? I decided to finally speak up.


“Is there something wrong? You look a little tense. You know if there’s anything I can do to help you, I will.” I said softly, hoping to coax out a response.


“Sorry, I’m just really nervous is all.” 


“Why are you nervous though? I don’t understand.”


“I really wanted to talk to you about something, I’m just not sure how to.”


I smiled at her and placed a hoof on her shoulder for comfort.


“You can talk to me about anything. I’ll always listen and be here for you,” I said, continuing to smile at her.


She smiled back at me before taking several deep breaths, to help get her nerves together, I guess.


“I met a pony that I believed would lead me to become powerful. I thought I would be able to do anything with her at my side. I was proud to be at her side. But then, I screwed it all up. I became arrogant and full of myself. I felt I was missing something, but I didn’t know what. I figured out with the help of somepony special what I was missing,” she looked me in the eyes smiling brightly. “You were the special pony who helped me. You have helped me so much Twilight. You helped me get my life back on track. For that I can never thank you enough.”


“You don't have to thank me.” I replied, blushing lightly.


“But I do. If it wasn’t for you, I would still be that lonely pony you met all those years ago,” she looked down at the ground, most likely thinking about the past. “I screwed up in the past, but I don’t want to make another mistake like that again. I want to ask you. Will you, High Lady Twilight Sparkle, take me as your student? Let me learn from you, so I won’t screw up again.” she finished, bowing down to me.


I took a step back, taken aback from what she had said. And from what she had asked of me. Was I really the right pony to help her? Princess Celestia taught me all I know, but was I ready to pass that knowledge on to another? It was hard for me to decide what to do, but at the same time an easy one. Here was a pony... no, a friend, who was asking for my help, so she wouldn’t fall back onto the wrong path again. What kind of friend would I be if I turned her down? 


Before I could do anything she stood up and turned away from me before speaking.


“Nevermind Twilight. It was stupid for me to ask that of you. After everything I put you and your friends through.”


I stepped forward, turning her around and looked into her light blue eyes.


“I don’t know if I’m the right pony to show you the way, but I will do everything I can to help you. And I would be more than happy to call you my student.” I told her, smiling.


I saw her eyes widen as I finished speaking, before she wrapped her hooves around me, giving me a hug. 


“Thank you. I promise, I won’t let you down,” she smirked before adding, “my lady.”


I wrapped my hooves around her and returned the hug before speaking.


“Please don't call me that,” I groaned, before adding, “Even if you are my student, you are still my friend.”


“As you wish, Twilight.” she said bowing.


I facehooved before speaking, “No. No no no. Do not bow to me, Sunset.”

                                = = = = LL:IPLA = = = =

“That first day, I warned you I was not going to be easy on you just because you were my friend. You took everything I threw at you and more. Every assignment you passed with flying colors. I was so proud to call you my student,” I said, looking up at the statue of Archmage Sunset Shimmer. “I was even more proud that one special Hearth Warming Day. We all had a get together to spend some time together when you said you had a announcement to make. You told us that last night you had become the happiest pony in equestria, when you had proposed to your marefriend and she had said yes.”

My eyes traveled down the statue to the inscription upon the podium it sat. 

Archmage Sunset Shimmer,
Greatest Archmage of our Time
Aspired to bring True Peace to 
Equestria. With great hardship,
she achieved her goal.
With the support of her wife
she brought many of the races
together in alliance.
 
I shook my head, “When you told us she had said yes, I was shocked. I didn’t think you were ready for that stage yet, but you proved me wrong. You and Rarity were so happy together. Whenever the two of you had time to spare, you spent it in each others presence. I was so proud of you when you found love.” I said, looking back up at the statue.

I stared at the statue, remembering some of her achievements as Archmage.

Time passed by with fleeting memories, as I took notice of the sun starting to set. 

“Thank you for the company Sunset, I’ll try to visit again.” I said, smiling up at my student, placing the tulip next to the statue.

I turned around and headed back for my room. It was time I read that book once again.
> Road to Laughter (Cadance)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 7: Road to Laughter
Cadance

        ‘I wonder where Twilight went after reading the note.’ I thought to myself. ‘Rose only told me she left shortly after decoding the message.’

        I sat at a table near the kitchen eating a nice breakfast as I continued to think about Twilight and the note I sent her two days ago.

        “Zomething on your mind, princezz?” Gustav asked from behind me.

        “How could you tell?” I replied back to the old griffon.

        “You’re mumbling to yourzelf,” he said, taking a seat next to me. “Anything Gustav can do to help?”

        “I don’t think so. I’m just worried about Twilight,” I told him, hanging my head down. “I just want to see her happy again.” 

        “You and Twilight were alwayz cloze. Maybe you can find zome way to help her,” Gustav said, smiling at me. “You were her first friend after all. My father use to have this old zaying. ‘The branchez of an Olden-Tree may wither, but the roots zhall alwayz stay ztrong.’”

        “What does that mean?” I looked at Gustav, hoping he would answer.

        “It meanz, my dear princezz. Get your lazy rump up and go help that mare!” He said, getting up and pulling me up onto my hooves and pushing me out. “Now off with you. Twilight needz you.”

        “What did that saying mean though?”

        “Honestly? I have no bucking clue. My father was crazy. Now go.” He finished saying, pushing me out the door and closing it behind me.

I stood there dumbfounded. What the buck just happened? Gustav has never been like that. And what did that saying mean? 

I shook my head clear of what happened deciding to try and find Rose.

'Maybe I can find out where Twilight went, if I can find Rose.' I thought to myself.

I started to walk away from the dining hall hoping to find Rose, or at the very least, figure out what Gustav’s saying ment.

‘I think I remember reading about an Olden-Tree in a griffon botany book, but I can't remember which one.’ I thought to myself as I continued to walk down the hallways of the castle. ‘Maybe the castle library will have the book I'm thinking about.’

I changed course and heading for the east wing of the castle, where the library was located. As I walked, I continued to think about Twilight, and the note that I had sent her. 

I found myself in front of the castle library, remembering how Twilight’s “perfect day” involved spending the day, the entire day, inside the collection of books housed here.

‘You always did love your books. I think the only thing you loved more was Fluttershy,’ I thought to myself, walking into the library. 

As I walked inside, I took a look around and found the librarian.

Walking over to him I asked, “Would you mind helping me find a book?”

The middle aged colt turned around and I saw his eyes go wide before quickly dropping into a bow.

“Princess Cadenza. I didn’t know you were here in Canterlot. What can I do to help you?”

I sighed, he did the two things I hate. Bowing, and calling me Cadenza.

“You can do three things. One, don’t bow to me. Two, don’t call me Cadenza, call me Cadance. And three, can you point me in the direction of a book talking about ‘Olden Trees’ please,” I asked him softly.

“Of course, Princess Cadance,” he said, getting back up. “I believe the book you’re looking for is called, ‘The Hinterlands of Old’ by Sky’ree. If my knowledge is right, thats the only book that speaks of ‘Olden Trees’ at least, that’s the only one here in Equestria. You should be able to find it in the culture section, row six." he said, pointing in the right direction.

“Thank you for your help.” I told him, as I started to walk over to find the book.

 I started to scan the shelves, looking for the book the librarian mentioned. It didn't take me long to locate it as it was leather bound, and most books which are written by ponies are made of synthetic leather rather than real leather like this one is.

'I remember reading this book once, but I don’t recall 'Olden Trees'.’ I thought to myself, finding an empty table to sit down at, in order to check out the leather bound book. 

I flipped through the pages of the book, looking for anything about ‘Olden Trees’ until I found something that looked promising.

‘In this age everyone has forgotten the name of our honor tree. Anymore most griffons refer to it as an olden tree. This tree grows quickly, reaching its full height in just a two year timeframe. Only few olden trees remain these days and are all symbols of honor. Studies have been done on fallen olden trees to try and find out what makes them grow so fast but nothing was found, but something else was found instead. Even though the limbs of the tree had withered and died, unable to grow back, the roots under the ground were still strong as could be.’

‘Thats why I don’t remember seeing ‘Olden Tree’ its not a name, more like a placeholder.’ I thought to myself. 

After reading everything in the book about ‘Olden Trees’, I thought I had figured out what Gustav’s saying meant. Maybe I could use it to help Twilight. 

I got up to put the book away when I took notice of another book on the shelf. A book Twilight herself had shown to me several years ago. She told me it helped her through her parents death.

The book ‘Kingdom of Sorrow’ was about an old kingdom, whose king and queen passed away and left their young son alone to rule the kingdom. He was heart broken about his parents death, but it was thanks to the support of his friends that he was able to get through this hard time and be a great king.

‘This book helped you once. Maybe it can help you again.’ I thought to myself, taking the book up to the front.

“Excuse me sir?”

“Yes, Princess Cadance? Is there something else I can help you with?” The librarian replied to me. 

“I was wondering if there was any way I could purchase a book from the library?”

“Normally it isn’t allowed but I do know Princess Luna has done it a couple times. So I don’t see a problem with it. What book were you wanting?” 

“This one.” I said, placing ‘Kingdom of Sorrow’ on the desk.

"Give me one minute to see if we have another copy thats in better condition." The librarian said, turning away to look for the book.

As I waited for the librarian to return, Rose came in through the doors and saw me.

“Hello, Princess Cadance. How are you today?” She asked with a smile, and thankfully not bowing.

“I’m doing fine, thank you Rose. And yourself?”

“Been running errands for Lady Twilight this morning. This is actually my last stop. She wanted me to pick up a book she ordered.”

“I’m glad Twilight has someone like you looking after her.” I said to the pegasus, smiling at her.

“Princess Cadance? I found a copy of that book you wanted.” The librarian said, placing the book on the table.

“Thank you very much, sir. How much do I owe you?” I asked the librarian, turning my attention to him.

“Ten bits princess.”

I smiled at him and placed ten bits on the table for the book.

“It was a pleasure to help you, Princess,” he said, smiling at me as he picked up the bits and turned his attention to Rose. “You must be here for Lady Twilight’s book, correct?” 

“Yes I am.”

“Give me one minute to retrieve it and I'll be right back.” He said walking off.

“Rose?”

Rose turned her attention to me before replying, “Yes, princess?”

“Would you happen to be able to meet me in my room later? I would like to talk to you about Twilight if we could.”

“Of course princess. After these errands are finished, Lady Twilight has already said that I’ll have the rest of the day free to relax. I can meet you in your room when I’m done.”

"Thank you, Rose. I'll see you later on then." I said to her, before turning around and leaving the library, heading back to my room.

'I'm glad I was able to find her,' I thought to myself, looking at the book floating beside me. 'I hope this book can help you again Twilight.'

As I rounded a corner heading for my bedroom, I started to hear voices causing me to stop when I recognized them.

"....bucked up bad, Luna. I know Cadance is mad. She's not even answering her door." I heard Celestia say.

"I did try to warn you, and you wouldn't listen to me. Maybe you'll finally learn to just leave things be. I know your intentions were for the good of the Crystal City, but what of Cadance and Twilight?" I heard Auntie Luna say to Celestia.

'Maybe then we wouldn't be in this situation, now would we?' I thought to myself, as I stood behind the corner.

"Don't worry, Luna. I don't plan to do that again. For now though, I'll leave them both alone. I know Cadance..." I heard Celestia say before her voice faded away along with both sets of hoofsteps.

 I sighed in relief. I really do not feel like talking to Auntie Celestia yet.

I continued heading for my room and reached it with no more trouble.

I walked into my room, and sat down at the writing desk. I set the book down and opened it up. 

'I remember reading this book after Twilight told me about it. A story about a young prince’s sorrow after losing his family,'  I thought to myself, running a hoof over the book. 'I hope this helps you one more time.'

I began reading the book to refresh my memory on the story.

After about thirty minutes, I heard a knock at my door.

"Come in, it's open." I called out, marking my page and placing the book down.

I heard the door open and turned to greet Rose, but the pony I saw wasn't her, causing me to freeze. Standing before me was my Aunt Luna.

“Hello, Cadance. I’m guessing by the look on your face, I was not the pony you were expecting. Am I right?” Luna asked me, closing the door behind her.

“Aunt Luna. What are you doing here?” I asked, shocked she was here. “I didn’t expect you to come see me.”

“And why wouldn’t I come see my niece when she’s visiting? Namely when it’s been almost ten years since last we saw each other,” Luna said, smiling at me. “But, I do have a reason for coming to see you. I wanted to talk to you about Celestia.”

“Sorry auntie, but I don’t want to talk about Celestia,” I told Luna, turning back to the desk. “What she did was uncalled for.”

“Yes, it was.”

I turned around and looked at my auntie.

“You knew she was keeping the fact that Fluttershy had died, away from me? Why wouldn’t you tell me, when you found out? I thought you cared about Twilight, Luna.”

Luna sighed, before sitting down in front of me. 

“I would have told you, if not for the fact I didn’t learn that my sister was keeping it from you, for two years after Shy had passed away,” She said, while looking at me. “I went to her and asked her why you hadn’t come to see her. I was sure you would have. It took me a while but I was able to learn the truth.”

“But why didn’t you tell me then?”

“Because, by that point Twilight had already gone too far into her depression to really listen. I’ve been trying for the last six years to help her through her dreams, but even then she wasn’t responding. So I had thought that even you wouldn’t be able to break her out of it with your attention divided like it would have been.”

"So your reason was the same as Celestia's. To protect the Crystal City, and leave Twilight alone."

Luna looked up at me with a fury in her eyes. 

"Never say I would leave Twilight alone," she said to me, anger clear in her voice. She calmed down and continued, "my reasons are different than my sister's. My reason was to protect you."

"Protect me from what, dear aunt. I don't see anything for you to protect me from."

"A choice that would have torn you apart. When I was trying to help her I was neglecting a lot of my duties and it was having little effect. Now tell me Cadance, could you have chosen? Focus on Twilight, focus on the uprising, or try to split between the two which you would see, would not work. You would still be leaving Twilight on her own, and the uprising would still be going on as we speak.”

I fell silent at my aunt’s words. I couldn’t split my attention, Luna was right.So could I have truly chosen? Help the ponies I’m meant to protect, or help Twilight.

“I’m sorry for getting upset, auntie. You’re right. Trying to make the decision would have torn me apart. Twilight means a great deal to me, but it’s my duty to keep the crystal ponies safe.” I said, sighing in defeat. 

‘At Least Luna was looking after me, and not the Crystal City.’ I thought to myself. 

“Now about my sister. I was wanting to tell you that I’ve been able to talk her into leaving both you and Twilight alone. She will bother neither of you. Both of us believe you are our last hope, to bring the Twilight we remember back to us. Even I have agreed to no longer meddle in her dreams.” 

"Wait, what? You're not going to keep helping her?"

"We both want to, but we have tried for six years. Neither of us has gotten close to bringing her back," Luna said, hanging her head. "Last time Twilight visited 'Wisdoms Empyrean' was eight years ago. Then two days ago, I saw her walking in there.”

My eyes opened wide. She visited ‘Wisdoms Empyrean’ after reading my letter.

“Do you think she visited Sunset?” I asked, trying to confirm my thoughts.

“Thats the only pony I can think of that she would visit. She never visited Star Swirls grave after all, and you know how much she looked up to him.”

‘My letter did have an effect. Even if it was a small one.’ I thought to myself, glancing over at the desk with ‘Kingdom of Sorrow’ on it. ‘I can only hope the next one will affect you just as much if not more.’

I looked up and saw my aunt with her head still low. She and Twilight were close friends. Passing letters to each other back and forth almost weekly. Seeing Twilight how she is now, and unable to help. If that was me, I don’t think I could take it.

I strode forward and wrapped my hooves around my aunt and hugged her close.

“Everything will be fine, auntie. I promise, I’ll do everything I can to bring Twilight back to all of us.”

“Thank you, Cadance. You don’t know how much hearing you say that helps me.” She said to me, wrapping her hooves around me to  return the hug.

‘Pinkie, I hope your book helps Twilight once again, just like it did when she lost her parents.’ I thought to myself.