This is the second story published in a fairy-tale collection gleaned from the ancient stories of Equestria. Like the first such story, The Good King, it is told in the classic fairy-tale style, and once again commentary and analysis have been generously provided by Equestrian royalty (though why they would be so kind as to do so is beyond me... proof, I suppose, that it never hurts to ask!). Though this literary form is far from popular these days, it is nonetheless the form in which these tales have been passed down, and the author is not about to change this. Just as in haute couture, literature is subject to whim and fashion, but some styles are timeless.

I would love to hear from parents who might read this to their young audiences. It is the reaction of the most important critics of all... the children... which is most valuable to such a project.

Sometimes extreme measures need to be taken to reassure a friend who is hurting, especially when the hurt is self-inflicted. All it takes is trust.

note: this story was written between season 1 and season 2, and takes place during that time

There's a new night-spot in town and Luna wants to go more than anything. But who shall she go with? What could she wear? And can a princess mingle with ordinary ponies at all?

Surely, scandal is in the air.

NOTE: This story was written between season 1 and season 2, before anybody knew anything about Luna's personality. However, I am not going to revise the story... it is what it is. The extent to which this can be reconciled with Royal Canterlot Voice Luna is in the reader's hands now. Take it for what it is.

Rarity is a pony of many talents. Her greatest goal, though, is not the praise of critics... it is the approval of friends. Can she make the grade in a talent that does not involve a sewing machine? There is only one way to find out, because the proof of the baking is in the eating.

A historical pony "fairy tale" which, like most such fairy tales, is intended as much to instruct as to entertain the young. This ancient story (older than Equestria itself) demonstrates how sovereign rulers can lose touch with those whom they rule, and how to make amends when such things happen. This story is told in a very old style, but its lessons are as applicable today as they were before the Great Equestrian Migration. As this is as much a work of scholarship as it is of storytelling, historical analysis is provided by Royal Archivist the Crown Princess Twilight Sparkle, and commentary graciously provided by Her Royal Highness the Princess Celestia.

Perhaps Sombra would have benefited from having this read to him before his bedtime, and Crystalline history would have been a very different thing indeed.

This story is suitable for all ages, from the youngest just learning to speak to the oldest who wish to feel young again.

What starts out as an ordinary afternoon for Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash quickly turns deadly, as forgotten schemes of vengeance awaken and come to fruition. Rainbow Dash will learn the true purpose of the Wonderbolts, what it means to be a hero, and what it costs.