Birthday Wish

by Midnight Spawn

First published 3rd of October, 2013

I made a wish for a friend, and a pony showed up. This is my day-to-day life, making friends, saving Equestria, and keeping the ponies a secret from the world. Always looking for advice, so jump on board to help save ponykind!

A story I started a month ago, asking for help in raising the young pony I found myself raising. Since then, dark beings have arisen, Equestria has been saved, the world has been threatened, and no one knows what will happen next. Usually one chapter a day, and I always welcome advice! Hop on board and hold on--things tend to escalate quickly!

Chapter 1

Have you ever heard the term, “Be careful what you wish for”? I certainly have. I’ve heard people say it, use it to start a book or movie, or just when they see someone else making a stupid decision. Now whenever I hear those words, I think back to that moment that would change my life forever.

I had my eyes closed, barely seeing the glow from my birthday candles through my eyelids. A used to think these wishes would come true, but after a few disappointing birthdays (I still don’t have a time machine in my backyard), I gave up and just pretended whenever my family told me to make a wish. Once again, I blew out my candles, and I ate my cake. This birthday was supposed to be different! I’m turning eighteen, and I really wanted my friends around me to support me in this big moment of my life.

I was going to ask my mom if we could throw a party, but then I realized… I don’t have any friends to invite. I only had two friends in the world, and they’re both gone, moved far away. So I sat alone. Well, I guess that’s not fair to my family; I had them. My family is great! They’re just usually too busy to notice me.

The next night, I sat on my bed, looking out the window. I didn’t feel any older… I still felt like a lost child. That’s when I looked to the stars and thought I saw some shape in the moon. Something… smiling…

I still had a birthday wish left, right? And right then, I really needed something like that. With a sigh, I knew it wouldn’t come true, but… it couldn’t hurt.

I had no idea.

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Hey, guys, I’m going to be frank with you. This isn’t a story—it’s really happening. I tried to write it as a story, but I have no idea what’s going to happen next. Let me explain.

That night, my wish came true. I knew the phrase, “Be careful what you wish for” so I tried to be as specific as I could—someone special who knew the meaning of friendship and was just for me--but I in no way expected this. Before I went to bed, the moon flashed briefly but brightly and I saw a figure fall from it. It was amazing! It was hard to tell what it was from so far away, but I knew it had to have something to do with my wish.

I watched as it took its time getting here, slowing down once it reached my yard. I was quick to get up and open my window before it ran into it, and watched in amazement as it gently landed on the floor.

What I saw was a bright yellow horse with a long mane sleeping on my floor. I know now after researching it that it’s Fluttershy, but then I was confused. When it awoke, it was as confused as I was. Mom and Dad were gone (I still live with my family), and it was just me at the house.

All that happened last night, and now it’s the night of the next day. Whew, what a day! I didn’t know what to do, and I was running on no sleep so I’m not really myself right now. Anyway, it hasn’t left yet, and I don’t think it’s going to. I feel like it’s here for me… and I’m here for it.

I googled “yellow pony” this afternoon and saw her in the image results. Turns out her name is Fluttershy. So I googled that and clicked the first result—a wiki. This is what it said:

Fluttershy is a female Pegasus and one of the main characters ofMy Little Pony Friendship is Magic. She lives in a small cottage near the Everfree Forest and is an animal caretaker, the most prominent of her charges being Angel the bunny. She represents the element of kindness.

Represents the element of Kindness, huh? Seems like just the thing I need right now.

Anyway, I’m writing this because I don’t know what to do. I’ve heard her talk, in English, but she never talks to me. In fact, she tends to avoid me, despite never leaving. I’ve tried on a number of occasions to ask her who she is or where she came from, but I don’t even think SHE knows. If she really is from a television show… I don’t think I should tell her. Not yet.

The weird thing is, I’m not freaking out. And if you’re interested, no, nobody else can see her. Just me. That’s what scares me the most, but I KNOW she isn’t a vision or anything… I’m NOT crazy! I hadn’t even seen the show before, so how could I imagine her?? I think I’ll watch an episode or two later tonight.

I’ve tried a number of times to reach out and touch her to make sure she’s real, but she always backs away before I can. The poor thing is so scared. The calmest I ever see her is when she’s with animals, specifically my cat, Sylvester. She talks to him, and—wow!—I’ve never heard a more beautiful voice. This is more than I wished for. I just hope it isn’t more than I can handle.

So that’s where I am right now: Glancing back and forth between my computer screen and my wish come true. My original plan was to write it as a story, so you all wouldn’t think it was real and freak out, but I just can’t. I’m way too tired and suck at writing.

Please, PLEASE don’t tell anyone about this! If anyone found out… well, they can’t see her, so I’m not sure, but it can’t be good. At the very least, they’ll think I’m crazy!

My parents are home, so no experimenting tonight. I think I’ll just watch some “My Little Pony” (sounds girly) then get some much needed shut eye. I’ll post again as soon as I can, but in the meantime, I really need your advice. This is a site dedicated to the show, right? You have to know what to do!

And remember, DO NOT tell anyone about this. Maybe one day, it’ll get out, but not until I’ve sorted this all out.

…Awe, she just yawned. So cute! Wait, she’s coming over here. She… just lay down next to me. She still won’t look me in the eye, but at least she’s getting more comfortable around me. She really needs a bed (mine isn’t big enough for both of us). What should I make it out of?

Okay, I’m beat. Thanks for reading this, and I predict about 70% of you won’t believe me, and 10% of those will just play along, which is fine. This is a site for FanFICTION after all. But those who think it might be possible… please help because I don’t want to waste this opportunity.

Author's Notes:

If you have any advice for me on things like what she likes or how to take care of her, then, hey, you're the experts here. First of all, how can I make her a bed?

Day 2 + Evening Update

Open up your eyes. There’s more to this than you realize.

That’s what I heard in my dream last night, clear as day. Not sure what it means if anything. Oh well, I’m not going to worry about it.

In case you were wondering, I took your advice last night and laid some blankets on the floor. What’s funny was my brother was going to sleep in my room last night (we’re painting his), so he saw me trying to make it as comfy as possible and just looked at me. When he asked me what I was doing, I told him it was for my cat. Luckily, Sylvester was nearby so I put him on it and eased my brother’s mind. Plus, Fluttershy seemed very happy to share it with the cat, and I managed to get some sleep. No school today, but I have work at Chick-Fil-A, so I hope Fluttershy’s okay by herself. She’d just be miserable if she had to come with me, so I guess I’ll see her when I get back.

OH MY GOSH, it happened: She talked to me! Here’s what happened—

I arrived home from work and poked my nose through the door to my room. Fluttershy lay next to my cat, apparently having a conversation with him.

“So if you’re the king, then what is James?” she asked trying to piece together how things worked around here. Sylvester made a short meow, and I walked in before this got out of hand (you know how a cat thinks).

“Hey, Fluttershy, I brought you some salad,” I said carefully. I had brought some salad back with me and taken the chicken off the top. “You hungry?”

The vanilla mare kind of hid behind her mane and nodded. Slowly, I placed the food in front of her and motioned for her to eat up. My cat, of course, moved in to inspect it, but I promptly shooed him away. Fluttershy looked at it a bit before taking a tiny bite. I saw her realize just how hungry she was and take another and another.

I laughed. “Is it good?” She nodded. “Good. So what were you talking about with Sylvester?”

“Oh… um… just, you know, stuff…”

Yes! She spoke to me! I’ve gotta keep this going, I thought. “You really like animals, huh?” Go ahead and facepalm—it was all I could think of!

“Oh, yes! Your cat is really nice. And he speaks very highly of you, you know?”

I smiled. “Oh? What does he say?”

“Well, he says you’re really kind, and he likes it when you scratch behind his ears,” she said with a very small smile. I chuckled. “He also says you’re the best slave he has.”

“Wait… what?” I glanced at the direction he had left before looking back at her, “Don’t listen to him. He’s obviously the pet here.” Pfft. Cats!

The pony almost laughed, “Yea, I know.” Then she lowered her head and told me, “He asked where I was from.”

I gulped. “Yea? What did you tell him?”

She shook her head. “I don’t know.” Then she looked up at me, “James? Where did I come from?”

Now I was in a pickle. I didn’t want to tell her she was from an animated cartoon, but how could I lie to her? “Um… how about this? I’ll tell you tonight, all right?”

She nodded her head. I continued, “But you can be sure of this: you’ll always have me. And you don’t have to be afraid—I’m here to protect you.”

The yellow mare looked into my eyes for longer than she ever had and said, “You know what, James? The cat’s right… you are a nice guy.”

That brought a huge smile from me. Then I did what I had always wanted to do: I raised my hand to stroke her mane. Unfortunately, she didn’t see this and turned around to walk away. With a sigh, I lowered my arm and thought, It’ll happen. Just don’t rush things, James.

About an hour later, I’m sitting here right now reading some of your comments. Wow, I am blown away from all the response I got! Seriously, I was afraid that… I don’t know, but thanks a lot! I’m glad you guys are out there.

I only had time to read the first comment before I went to bed last night, which is how I got the idea to spread some blankets for her to sleep on. To be honest, I feel kind of guilty for not giving her my bed. I’m definitely going to do that tonight.

Singing… well, I sing a little bit. Does she like that? I don’t remember her singing during the first two episodes of My Little Pony.

So I did watch the first two episodes. They were pretty good, but nothing mind blowing. I paid the most attention during Fluttershy’s parts. She can be really brave when the situation demands it. She’s just confused right now, but I can tell a time will come and she’ll discover how brave she really is deep down.

Well, I have the rest of the day with her. It occurred to me at work that she hasn’t really been outside. I mean, apart from when she first arrived. I know she can fly, so where should I take her?

I don’t know what I’m going to tell her tonight. Maybe I’ll just tell her I made a wish that I needed a friend and she was “a wish come true”. What do you think?

I’m going to go back to this chapter tonight and “edit” it before I go to bed to let you guys know how today went if I have the time.

Evening Update

The park went well. I could tell she really needed to get outside and stretch her wings. She doesn’t fly very high, but we had a few good laughs.

I tried taking a picture of her, too. But that didn’t work because she didn’t show up on the camera screen. I just assumed she wouldn’t appear in the picture, so I didn’t take it. It did kind of let me see how other people see, though. She was on the swing, but through the digital camera screen, it was just a swing moving by itself. Sorry, guys.

A few people started showing up, so I had to tell her she couldn’t swing due to… you know, people seeing a swing keeping itself going. So she played with some squirrels and I pulled out my phone to do some more research and check my replies.

I’m researching less about her and more about how she could have gotten here, now. I googled “My Little Pony in real life”, but that wasn’t very helpful. I also found a story called “My Little Dashie” that I think is about one of the ponies coming here, but I didn’t read it because it was too long. Have you guys heard of it before?

I’m trying really hard not to stay too close to her, but I’m worried something might happen. Like one reply said, I don’t need to escort her everywhere. She is smiling a lot more, though.

Okay, she’s asleep. That could have gone a lot worse. I don’t want her to know about you guys quite yet so all she knows is that I spend a lot of time on my phone and laptop. Anyway, here’s how it went:

Dinner looked delicious, but I hesitantly asked for some fruit instead. When my mom asked if I wasn’t feeling well, I just told her I wanted to eat something healthy tonight. I did this, of course, because I’d assume Fluttershy wouldn’t eat meat. I asked if I could eat up in my room, but my mom insisted I eat at the table with the rest of them. Oh well. I still managed to sneak Fluttershy some fruit.

After it was over, I walked up the stairs silently followed by my pony friend. I knew she would expect an explanation when we reached my room.

That moon’s figure is back. …Like a silhouette. Weird.

When we walked in, I made sure Sylvester was nowhere in sight before I told her to sit down.

Okay, here we go…

“Fluttershy, I know you want to know where you’re from,” I began. She sat on the bed next to me, looking up with big eyes. “Uh, but, there’s still so much I’m not sure about…”

She just sat there, waiting for me to continue, so I did. “Um, well, you came here… from far away when I needed you most. You, um, you’re from a land known as Equestria. And…” I paused, unsure of what to say next. She looked down, pondering something.

I continued slowly, “Do you, uh, remember anything?”

“No…” she whispered.

I nodded. There was silence… “Well, I don’t know what else to… say,” I spoke softly. Why did this have to come up so soon?! I mean, let me wrap my head around things before I have to tell a pony who she is! I mean, she was so happy just this afternoon.

“So what you’re saying is,” she said while looking at the floor, “Is that you don’t know how I got here or who I am?”

I scooted closer to her and spoke with a strong yet soft voice, “Hey, you came through that window and floated down into a strange land. Never have I seen such bravery in the world as what you have shown. You’ve made it this far because you’re smart and kind. I wish more people were like you.” Her ears came up, but she stared at the mattress. “And as for who you are? You’re Fluttershy, my friend. And nothing is going to change that. Whether you’re from a magical land of Equestrian beauty or from just around the block, you’ve changed my life around. Ever since you came here, I haven’t been lonely for even a minute. So thank you.”

I’m exaggerating, I know, but I get so emotional when I’m tired.

“And I’m sure your memory will come back.”

I really hope it doesn’t.

My goodness, I’m about to sing…

My pitch wasn’t perfect, but I was making it up as I went.

“In the meantime, will you stay here with me?” She smiled a little and looked at me. Then, she nuzzled me with her nose.

“Thanks, James. I feel a lot better now.” Thank God. I’m not used to all this drama. “So I came through that window, right?”

“That’s right.”

“Maybe… another pony will come tonight.”

Man, this girl needs a friend. One of her species, I mean. “I’ll stay up a little longer and see, okay? Why don’t you sleep in my bed tonight?”

“Oh no! I couldn’t kick you out of your own bed. I’ll just sleep on this again tonight.” She jumped down to her pile of blankets.

“But—”

“No but’s mister. I insist.”

Dang. “Well, how about I look for an old sleeping bag or something. I’m sure we have one hiding around here somewhere.”

And that’s what happened. I found one and placed the blankets and some pillows down on it, and she went fast to sleep. For her sake, I made another wish tonight, but nothing’s happened so far, and I don’t think anything will.

Thanks guys for the support. We averted this crisis and hopefully we won’t have another one any time soon. Once we can get into the swing of things, I’m sure everything will be a lot simpler.

I work all day tomorrow. Probably not a good idea to take her. I hope she’s all right here by herself. Man, I’m beat. I should go to bed, but I’ll stay up and read any comments I get. I won’t be able to reply to any comments tomorrow until after 4:30 when I get home.

Aww, she’s smiling in her sleep. I was planning on moving her to my bed once she was asleep, but that looks comfier than what I sleep on anyway!

One last thought… I watched one more episode from My Little Pony, and I’ve gotten to thinking… when season 4 comes around…

If Fluttershy is here, will she still be in the series?

Author's Notes:

So where should I take her today? Probably somewhere where she can fly. Hmm... there's a park not far from here.
And help me out about tonight! I don't know what I'm going to tell her, especially now that she trusts me to tell her the truth...

Day 3

A key may open more than one door, but only one door may be meant to be opened. Same voice as last time.
Then I dreamed I was at my cousin’s house during Thanksgiving. It was fun. Once again disregarding it.

So, I got up before Fluttershy did and went to work, then came back around 4:30. Fluttershy was happy to see me (or be seen by me), and we talked while I folded clothes. She tried to help, but with nothing but hooves, it didn’t really work out.

When I asked her what she had done today, she said, “Oh, not much… I found some very nice birds today.” I can tell she’s bored, but I don’t know what I can do about that. It’s really good that she can communicate with animals.

That’s when I got an amazing idea. She told me how she had helped them with their singing, and a light bulb went off in my head! See, I wanted to go to the Seafood Festival tomorrow in Downtown Morehead City (close to where I live) and I was debating whether I should take her with me.

I haven’t thrown this idea by her yet, but it seems like something she’d like to do. She’ll gather with her bird friends and lead them in “performing” during the festival! I mean, she loves singing and birds, so…

Speaking of singing, thanks for making that suggestion the first day, but I am NOT doing that again!

So in the very slim chance that one of you reading this lives in North Carolina and was going to go to the Seafood Festival tomorrow, keep your eyes up in case you can see her flying, and watch for a group of birds all singing together and looking toward something leading them. Assuming, of course, that you guys think this is a good idea. If you do think so, I’ll ask her, because she needs something to do—preferably something only she can do and something that won’t give her away.

So it looks like smooth sailing from now on. Nothing big happened today, and my family still hasn’t found out about her.

Oh, well I guess one more thing did happen today. Naturally, my family had spent a good portion of the day watching TV, and Fluttershy had watched some, too. Thankfully, it wasn’t My Little Pony. Of course, no one else in my family would be caught dead watching My Little Pony! But anyway, she asked how it worked, and I told her that it was a mirror that let you see into alternate worlds. And that when you looked into these other worlds, no one in that world knew you were, and that you don’t know what time it is that you are viewing. It could either be the past, present, or future in that universe.

Now that I think about, it’s a good thing she didn’t ask if she was from one of those worlds. Huh… I’m still proud of myself for coming up with that explanation thanks to StageQuill.

I guess that’s it. Not much else to say about today, since I spent it all at work. I’m uploading this a little early today since I don’t expect anything else write-worthy is going to happen. Also, I’ll be gone all day tomorrow, but I’ll try to find a time to keep you guys posted. If I don’t, you can be sure I’ll upload on Monday.

Short Update (Day 4)

No weird voice in my dream last night, thank goodness. And the moon looks normal tonight, so that’s good.

Good gravy, I am exhausted! Okay, no one uses that term anymore, but I’m pretty pooped. I decided not to take Fluttershy to the Seafood Festival. I asked her about leading the birds in singing a song, but she apparently doesn’t like “performing” in front of crowds. Then I thought about how many people would be there and how crowded the streets would be, and… well, she didn’t go. I wasn’t going to go if she wasn’t, but my sister REALLY wanted to go, and I would have to take her since she has no license.

So, unfortunately, Fluttershy was left home by herself again. Man, I feel like I can’t do anything right! I don’t want to throw a pity party or anything, but first I make a stupid suggestion and embarrass her, then I’ve left her all alone all day several times. I just… most of the time, I feel like she would be way happier with somebody else.

Sorry, I told you I get emotional when I’m tired, and the festival just wore me out. Oh, it was so much fun! We went on so many rides, I felt sick by the end.

Totally worth it.

Anyway, back on topic, Fluttershy needs something productive to do. StageQuill, you are absolutely right… I wonder what she could do. Oh! In the episodes, she wakes up the animals every morning, right? Yes! If I could put her in charge of something while I’m gone, she would feel trusted and needed, which is what she needs right now.

Whoa, did you guys just see that flash? Ah, what am I talking about? By the time you read this… my eyes are probably just tired.

So what could she do? Hmm… Sylvester has already apparently complained about her “cutting into his nap time”, so we’ll leave him out of it. I wish there were more animals near my house. Oh, and if you guys were wondering, we do have a dog, too, but she’s so old all she does is sleep all day—even more so than the cat!

That’s… all I really have to say. I’m just so exhausted! Oh, wait, I was going to ask what kind of music she liked. Nope, she’s asleep right now. I’ll ask her tomorrow, I promise!

I feel like I got nothing done today. Well, let’s check some comments and see what else you guys suggested I do…

TheMane(etc.)Brony, I will tell her… soon. There’s a balance in waiting for the right moment and not waiting so long that it’s too late. I don’t think there’s any way for her to find out for herself. I watch all the episodes on YouTube since we don’t get that channel, and no one in my family would watch it on Netflix. However, I am becoming increasingly curious about this “My Little Dashie” fanfic. I think I’ll read it tonight after I post this.

Evedawalrus, you have been a faithful reader and a big help, and I thank you. I can’t believe it’s only been 4 days. It feels like so much longer…

All right, gonna read the story and stay up a bit to answer any comments, so lay ‘em by me. Once again, sorry this chapter is so short. I spent the whole day at the festival. There’s no way to tell my sister “no” when she asks for something. There’s something missing, and both I and Fluttershy know it… I just need to figure out what it is. Hmm… maybe the answer is in the episodes?

Last Update (after reading "My Little Dashie")

I didn't cry...

...but I wanted to.

I will NOT have that happen. I won't let her be taken away. I don't care if I'm not perfect. I don't care if things get complicated. I don't know what I'd do without her. That whole "better with someone else" thing... that's bogus. And I certainly would be miserable without her. I see now how much she has come to mean to me over such a short time.

I won't bring her to want to leave, and I won't let anyone take her away. These things, I swear. Tomorrow, I become Super James!

Day 5

This sucks. I was going to spend all day today with Fluttershy, but this morning someone from work called me and needed me to cover their shift. Apparently they weren't feeling well, and I was their last hope. Well, I know how hard it is to work and smile when you feel awful, so I said I would cover his shift. Oh well, these things happen... So instead, I'm taking this opportunity to plan out everything I'm going to do tomorrow. It's gonna be great!

So I'll be making a list of things we're going to go do tomorrow, but you can still let me know what you think we should go do. I have a little bit of school to do, but the joys of being homeschooled means I can do today's and tomorrow's homework tonight, so I'll have all day with her! And I plan on updating multiple times tomorrow as the day goes on. I've already told her, so she's pretty excited :)

Sudden update at 9:30

I just noticed something...

...she's missing her cutie mark.

Author's Notes:

I know this post is pointless, but I told you guys I would be doing a lot today, and I'm just letting you know the play day has been moved to tomorrow. Feel free to ignore if you want, or you can comment what I should do tomorrow if you have a sudden, brilliant idea.

Best day ever! (Day 6)

I did not sleep well at all. I kept hearing that voice in my sleep with its sickening rhymes. Things like,

A destiny stolen can be brought back.

And, The time has come, the hero chosen.

Then another time, He who doesn’t know may still bring it about.

I can’t ignore it anymore. I’m seriously creeped out! Not only that, but that shape on the moon is back, and it looks… familiar. I’m starting to think maybe it wasn’t my wish that brought her here in the first place.

Anyway, I got up early this morning and woke Fluttershy up:

“Fluttershy, wake up! I need your help,” I whispered to her sleeping form.

The mare opened her eyes and yawned. It was amazing that she could sleep all night like that and still have a perfect mane. “James? What’s wrong?”

“Listen… do you hear that?”

She listened for a bit before answering, “No, I don’t hear anything.”

“Exactly! Fluttershy, something’s happened to the birds! I think they’re scared from the storm last night, and now they haven’t come out of hiding.”

The little pony stood up quickly. “What? But that means they won’t be able to chirp in the morning, then nopony will have a good day! What are we going to do?” She looked sincerely worried that if the birds didn’t sing in the morning, nobody would be happy.

“There’s nothing I can do. Fluttershy, it’s up to you. They’ll listen to you!”

“But… I…” She squeaked and hid her face.

“Flutter, they’re just birds. You talk to them all the time,” I tried to be reasonable.

“But what if I can’t? What if I just make things worse, and everyone’s day is ruined?”

There is, like, a 0% chance of any of that happening. “You’re the only one for the task.” She lifted her head. “I believe in you, Flutter.” She looked at me. “You just have to believe in yourself.”

I could see her wrestling with the responsibility. Finally, she said, “Okay, I’ll give it a try.” I watched her stand tall and determined, and I had never been so proud of her. We walked to the front yard and stood looking out at the wet ground. Nobody else was up yet.

The gentle mare looked around, but didn’t find any birds. “H-hello?” she called. A quick look around led her to some birds seeking shelter in a bush. “It’s okay. The storms over now,” she said in a sweet, calming voice. Then she moved to the next flock and said, “It’s safe to come out now.”

I smiled and watched her go from tree to bush, encouraging not only the birds, but the few squirrels that were there, too. Her voice was so… melodic and she calmed the creatures, saying things like, “Don’t you want to sing about a new day?” “Hey there, brave birds. You really showed that storm, huh? You should sing about it!” “The storm’s over—you can out now.”

She was smiling greatly and flying from place to place now. “Good morning! It’s such a beautiful morning, you should sing extra loud this morning!” “Wake up, sleepy heads. I brought you some fruit to munch on.” She looked over at me standing there. After what was perhaps too long, I got the idea and ran inside. When I came out, I had some fruit for her. “Here you go. Eat up and get those singing voices big and strong!”

Did you know birds eat fruit? I thought they just ate worms, but here they were munching on fruit as Fluttershy fed each one of them. Soon, there were so many birds in my front yard, people started looking out their windows to see.

“U-uh,” I stuttered as I saw a few people watching. Then I started whistling and pretended to be throwing out some seed. Eventually, they went back to their lives and I continued watching Fluttershy fly between the creatures, talking and encouraging and smiling like there was no tomorrow!

Fluttershy rubbed cheeks with a robin. No, seriously. “See? You’re braver than you think. One silly storm isn’t enough the ruffle your feathers. I’ll bet you’re the bravest in your family, aren’t you?” The robin shook and puffed its feathers out in pride. I saw her giggle and look around at the happy creatures. They looked so happy.

Suddenly, one bird started to sing, and all the rest joined in one by one. The sound grew until they were a choir that couldn’t be ignored. People started coming out of their houses, and I wasn’t sure what to do so I just focused on Fluttershy. I wasn’t going to let anyone ruin her moment.

It was beautiful. Not the singing—her smile. I mean, the birds’ song was gorgeous of course, but Fluttershy looked happier than she had ever been since coming here. She looked at me and I gave her a thumbs up. Then she ran to me and hugged me. “Oh, James, I’m so happy! I feel… I feel like this is what I’m meant to do. Like… it’s my destiny!”

I don’t know how to describe what happened next. There was this tiny flash and a sparkle. Then I looked, and Fluttershy had her cutie mark—three flying butterflies, free from doubt and fear. Free to soar and make life beautiful for everyone.

That moment, I experienced a new kind of joy, because I was happy for somebody else, and that is a kind of happiness that is greater than any kind for yourself. Fluttershy saw it and cheered. I laughed and congratulated her.

By this time, someone had pulled out their phone and started recording what was happening. I realized that I was crouched down to hug her and nobody else could see her. I always thought it would be awful and awkward if anyone caught me with her, but all I wanted to do at that moment was show her off. I wanted to praise her for finding who she was, and let the world know how proud I was of her.

Then I realized that this was the first time I had hugged her. That’s when I stroked her mane just like I had wanted to do since the first day I saw her. Guys, let me tell you—it’s the softest and smoothest mane you could ever feel! It smells like… some undiscovered flower and almost seems to shine. I could have stayed there in her embrace forever and been the happiest person on earth.

Instead, I whispered to her, “You want to go to the park and make some more animals happy?”

She responded, “Oh, yes! Let’s go give them the best morning ever!”

“Then let me go get changed. You’d better come inside, too, before you attract more birds and people start REALLY freaking out.”

And that’s what happened. I’m smiling even as I’m writing this. I don’t know about you guys, but I had the best morning ever! I may have no fruit left, but Fluttershy’s happy, the birds are still singing, and my little pony got her cutie mark! I hope your mornings are going just as well. If you had a hard night like I did, just listen to the birds sing. Why should they be happy and you not? It’s your day. Go seize it!

I’m going to go to the park, then maybe we’ll celebrate with some ice cream. I’m just in such a good mood right now! Expect another post this afternoon. Thanks for the encouraging words, guys! You are all so awesome!

Afternoon update

I’m sitting in a picnic area-type thing because it’s the only shelter there is from the rain.

We got to the park quickly enough, and most of the animals were already up. Fluttershy spent the whole afternoon playing with them and finding each of their names. It turns out some animals give their children names and some don’t; but for those without a name, Fluttershy took it upon herself to come up with one. I don’t think I’ll ever get used to seeing animals acting this way around her.

After some time, Fluttershy needed a rest and sat on one of the swings. I started pushing her, and we talked. She said she “liked swinging” because it was “like flying only less scary.” How can a Pegasus be afraid to fly?

Anyway, I guess the storm last night didn’t get its fill, because another one hit while we were there. We scrambled to get out of the rain and ended up in this little area. It’s a little place with a roof, some bathrooms, and several picnic tables. The only thing was, we weren’t the only ones there.

As I wiped off my glasses and Fluttershy shook herself, we were joined by a little boy. He must have around 10 or so, and he ran into the shelter as well. I stood there awkwardly before sitting down. I wanted to talk to Fluttershy, but now that wasn’t possible.

But you guys won’t believe what happened next. He said, “Hi,” and I said, “Hello.” Then he looked over at Fluttershy then faced me and said, “Is that your pony?”

I was shocked. For a bit, I didn’t say anything. The boy just stood there looking innocent. Then I leaned forward and pointed toward the pony and said, “You can see her?”

He nodded. “Yea, I have a pony, too!”

My eyes went wide. I looked over at Fluttershy who didn’t seem to know what was going on either. I faced him again, “You mean you have a pony? Like her?”

He smiled and nodded. “Uh-huh. Wanna see her?”

I blinked several times. “Um… yea,” I responded. Then the boy reached into his pocket and pulled out a tiny Rainbow Dash toy.

“It’s Rainbow Dash!” He said proudly.

I exhaled. “Oh!” Then I smiled at him. “That’s pretty cool, dude! You like Rainbow Dash?”

He looked at the toy in his hand. “Yep.”

“What do you like about her?”

“She can fly really fast!” I laughed at his answer. “She’s not like yours, but that’s okay.”

Not sure what he meant, I just said, “Well, at least you can fit yours in your pocket, so you can carry her places.” He shrugged and continued to study his toy. “So where’s your mom or dad?”

He pointed to a house just across the street. “She lets me come here by myself.”

“Hmm,” I wondered, “I don’t think that’s such a good idea. Even if you live close, parks can be dangerous.”

“I’m not scared! I can take care of myself!” Then he proceeded to put down his toy and try to kick the table.

“Whoa, there, buddy! Haha, I see that you’re strong, but maybe you should go get your mom just in case. I’m sure she’d like to see you go down the slide.”

He liked that idea and ran to fetch his mom. Naturally, we couldn’t be there when he came back, but I had to stand there for a second to take in all that had just happened. I turned to Fluttershy, “Fluttershy, can you believe that he could see you? How is that even possi—Fluttershy?”

She was standing there. Just standing there, staring at…

Oh, no.

She was staring at the toy the boy had left on the table.

All I could think was, Crap.

Evening Update

No, no, no, no, NO! My mind was spinning as I glanced between the pony figure and Fluttershy’s blinking eyes.

She wasn’t saying anything, so I decided I should first. “I—”

“You knew?” She looked at me and her face broke my heart.

“No! I—”

“But you called it a Rainbow Dash! You called it that to the boy!”

“But I didn’t know! I mean, I wasn’t sure… What I mean is that a few days ago—”

“I’ve been searching… LOOKING for anything—ANYTHING that looked like me. Something that might help me find… my…” She started crying and couldn’t go on.

How did this happen? We were both so happy not one hour ago! Guys, I had this whole day planned out, and I was going to tell her TODAY. I knew how I was going to break it to her and everything. Now, this?

“Fluttershy, I… I didn’t know until yesterday, I swear.” Goodness, did it even have to be raining right now? It just figures, you know?

She was trying not to cry, but she lost the battle every time she looked back at the Pegasus on the table. Then, she turned around and ran into the rain.

I was hard on her heels shouting, “Wait!” and “Give me a chance to explain!” but she just ran faster. The rain started falling harder (again, figures) and soon we were both so soaked, you couldn’t tell if she was crying or not. But I knew she was from the faint noises she made over the thunder. I ran after her for a good while, but horses are just faster than people. Even determined people.

When she was out of sight, I stopped and panted in the middle of the street. Then, in desperation, I raised my hands to my mouth and shouted, “FLUTTERSHYYYYYY!!!”

There was no response save for the echo of my own voice and the rain continuing to fall. Where could she go? She didn’t know this neighborhood. She had just taken off down the street. I stood there for a few more moments.

I heard a door open, and an elderly woman called for me, “Excuse me, are you alright? It’s pouring rain, please come inside.”

I continued to just stand there. Her face showed she was concerned, and I knew I needn’t fear her; but I also knew I couldn’t give up the chase so quickly.

“You’ll catch cold out there, son.” I looked at the ground and tried to catch my breath. “Did you lose someone?”

I looked up at her. She spoke quietly, “She’s gone, isn’t she?”

“H-how—”

“A man is standing alone in the middle of the rain, calling out someone’s name. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out what happened.”

“Well… yea… I tried to catch her, but…”

“Then keep running, child.”

“What?”

“I wish I had kept running when my man walked away. I should have kept looking when I still young enough to. So, run! Chase after her! Just don’t go and get sick out in this rain, okay, dear?”

I nodded and started running down the street again. But after only a few blocks, I knew it was hopeless. She could fly, after all. She could be anywhere.

So I made my way back home. When I walked through the door, I was immediately greeted by my mother. Well, “greeted” isn’t really the right word. I had left a note saying where I was going, but she was pretty upset. Plus, I was soaking wet, so that didn’t make anything look better. But when she saw my face, I guess I looked as upset as I felt because she piped right down. I told her I was going to my room, and she said, “Okay. Is everything alright? Did anything happen?” My mom is a very good mom because she’s always concerned about me and wants to know where I am at all times. I just shook my head and climbed the stairs.

Up in my room, I dried off and changed into some clean clothes. I didn’t know what in the world, I was going to do. My first thought was to report to you guys and ask what I should do, but then I just didn’t feel like it. Plus, I kind of felt like this was something I needed to solve myself.

Man, I had so many plans! I was going to give her the job of waking the animals EVERY morning. She would love that… and I was going to show her Animal Crossing like you guys said, because I actually do have that game. Then we were going to…

I felt the tears threaten to rise, but I managed to hold them back. I always said that “It’s not, ‘a real man doesn’t cry’. But ‘a real man knows when to cry’.” But I didn’t want to cry then. Especially if my mom walked in.

I sat there for I don’t know how long. It was probably just a few minutes, but soon I heard a rap on my window. Startled, I turned toward it and a soaking wet Fluttershy flying behind the second story window.

I quickly ran over and opened it, letting in some of the rain, but really not caring. “Fluttershy! It’s you!” She didn’t say anything, but she wasn’t crying anymore. “I’m so happy to see you right now. You didn’t give me a chance to explain.”

“I-I’m sorry, James. I don’t know where I was going. I was running away, when I asked myself, ‘What am I running from?’ Then I realized that this may be my chance to discover where I’m from.” She wouldn’t look me in the eye. “I just didn’t want you to see me like this…”

She was a mess. She was soaked head to hoof and had tear stains running down her cheeks. She looked totally spent and the rain continued to pour down her mane. “C-can I fly through your window again, and we just start over?”

I responded exactly how I felt, “I wouldn’t wish for anything else.”

So it’s okay, guys. She didn’t get mad or run away… well, not for long. In fact, she took it quite well. After she came inside, I lead her to the bathroom and put her in the tub. Then I grabbed a towel and started drying her off. As I did this, I started explaining to her where she was from in the best way I could.

I didn’t want to lie, but the whole truth might not be good for her right now. “Do you remember what I told you about the television?”

She nodded, “Yes, that it lets you see into other worlds.”

“Right, and that you don’t know whether you’re seeing into that worlds present time or their past or future. Well, yesterday, I found your world.”

Her ears perked up. “You saw my world?”

“Yep. I saw exactly where you’re from. In fact, I saw you, too. You were really happy.”

The pony closed her eyes as I dried off the top of her head. “I knew I was from somewhere else. I’ve always almost been able to remember it.”

“Well, you’re a lot like you are now: kind, good with animals, and very shy. Did you know you’ve saved your town and the lives of your friends multiple times?”

“I did?”

“You sure did. You and your friends are pretty famous there. That’s why that boy had a toy of you ponies.”

“I think… I know what a ‘Rainbow Dash’ is…”

“It’s coming back?”

She shook her head. “Not really. I just can make out a little bit from the fog. Do you think there’s a way to get back to that other world?”

I’ll admit my heart dropped when I heard her talk about leaving, but I knew it was best for her. “We can start looking. But… tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow. Tonight, I want to see my home.” I always thought she saw this as her home.

Things are falling apart as soon as they had come back together. “Why don’t we save that for tomorrow, too? I think we should go to bed early tonight. We’ve been through a lot.” I mostly just told her that so I could ask you guys which episode to show her.

She yawned. “But… I want to… see…” She yawned again and her eyes drooped.

I took her back to my room and she asked, “Can I sleep with you tonight, James?”

Of course I told her she could. She’s asleep right now, and I’m typing, obviously. Man, I’m so tired. Today was a long one.

My mom came upstairs to check on me. She told me I could tell her anything, and I told her everything was fine. I think she’s worried because I’ve spending a lot of time “alone” and that’s just a mother’s job. Oh well, telling her would do no good because she can’t see her.

Anyway, that was my day—a pretty full one. I almost hope tomorrow is uneventful as selfish as that sounds. I know that means the post may be boring, but I can’t do stuff like this everyday.

Remember to tell me which episode I should show her. Hopefully this rain will have stopped by then, too. I honestly have no idea what’s going to happen tomorrow.

I think I did a good job explaining things to her. Okay, I’m just typing random stuff now, so I’ll stop.

Wait, one last thing: if it’s still tonight when you read this, look out your window. We’re all looking at the same moon, right? Can you see that? There’s a shape on the moon! It’s the same shape that’s been there almost every night since Fluttershy came. I can even see it through the rain clouds. What do you guys see? Just to make sure I’m not crazy.

Answering comments (Day 7) + Evening Arrival

Wow, okay, so we're sitting on the couch watching "Dragon Shy" (next we're going to watch "Stare Master" I think) and I see that I got a lot of comments over night. So this post is just going to be me replying to comments.

Well I hate to tell you this, but... We told you she was going to get upset.
I'm going to agree with >> StageQuill's hypothesis that bronies can see her.
As for the moon... I'm not noticing anything different about it other than the usual 'man in the moon,' what are you seeing?

Yes, I know several of you were warning me of all the fanfics where the truth is withheld and the pony or ponies get really upset. But, honestly, I couldn't think of ANY way that she would find out unless she googled it herself or something, and I don't think she knows how to use a computer. I was planning on telling her yesterday while she was happy. In fact, if that boy hadn't been there, I probably would have told her then. I did NOT see that one coming. And the moon? I don't know how I didn't see it before (I must have been really tired): it's a pony. I can only see the head, but I recognize her.

>> That Pegasus Over There could Midnight Spawn be seeing something different? Maybe because of Fluttershy?
Maybe she's... radiating some sort of energy...
I don't know...
What does Midnight Spawn think?

I wasn't sure what I thought until last night. Usually, I hear this strange voice in my dream, right? And it's always some sort of complicated avoid-just-coming-out-and-telling-him-what-I'm-trying-to-say nonsense. But last night, I heard something different. The voice was the same, but it sounded different. And it finally said something good, "We will meet you under the moonlight. Look for us and we will be there." So tonight, I'm staying up extra late and hoping that the owner of that voice shows itself and explains what the heck is going on. I think I know who/what it is, though. I mean, come one, I've had my suspicions for a while now. The shape of a pony? A voice coming from the moon? Only speaking at night? Able to invade dreams? My only real worry is if she's a princess, or still a nightmare.

Wait. Have you ever heard of the "Mare in the Moon"? What exactly does the shape on the moon look like? Cause I have a sneaking suspicion....... If it looks like a pony, then we're doomed.....

Yes, I remember her from the first and second episode. She hasn't appeared in any episodes since then for some odd reason, but I recognize her. I think you're right. I've had that same suspicion, and now I'm almost positive. If she really is going to meet me tonight (I'm guessing that's what "under the moonlight" means), then we just might be doomed. I mean, if she were to bring an army with her that nobody could see... hopefully she's good like how episode 2 ended. I think she is. If she were evil, she would have tried something before now, right?

I hope this clears up some confusion for you (or just caused more). If she visits me tonight and wants to talk, I know you guys have some questions you think I should ask her. I sure do.

And Fluttershy's doing fine. She's asking a lot of questions as the episode goes on. Although I'm a little worried that she's getting the wrong first impression of Rainbow Dash. Eh, there's probably nothing to worry about. And I'm home alone right now, but I'm going to work very soon. I'll just leave her here to watch as much as she wants (as long as she turns it off if anyone comes home).

Evening Update

Okay, so it's 9:30 and still nothing. The silhouette is very clear now, but she hasn't appeared yet. Don't worry, though, I'm going to stay up tonight and wait. I'll be sure to keep you guys posted.

10:00. Fluttershy wants to stay up with me, but I'm sending her to bed if nothing happens soon. Maybe I was wrong? She said she'd meet me... but she never actually said tonight... no, I'm sure I'm right. She has to be coming. I just have to be patient.

10:15. I sent Fluttershy to bed. Still nothing.

10:20. Spoke too soon--I heard her! She something like, "We cannot show ourselves. He's watching us. If we are found, the night is lost." I whispered back, "Who?" but got no reply. Does this mean she's not coming tonight? I'm gonna stay up just a little longer.

10:35. I know I'm flooding you guys with posts, but she said something else, and this is the closest I can do to actually having you guys here with me. She said--holy, was that a flash? That was a flash! Just like the night that... a figure is coming from the moon. But she said she couldn't show herself tonight. So... just a second; gonna go ahead and open the window.

10:45. Pinkie Pie is unconscious in the middle of my floor. Exactly one week on the night I made the wish, another pony came through my window. Luna said she couldn't come tonight because she's being watched, but that tomorrow she would sneak over. Who's watching her? And what am I going to do now that I have two ponies?? I have a life I have to attend to! And she's going to have lost her memory isn't she? I don't think I can keep two ponies hidden for long... Ah, I need sleep! Oh, but I can't sleep now... huunnnn.... I feel so out-of-control of my life right now...

5:30. Imso tred going to bd/ see you tomorow (finaly falls onto bed)

Pinkie Pie found my computer really quick

Hello, everypony! Is there anypony from Equestria here? I'm so happy to meet all of you! This magic thingamajig is really fun! What do you want to talk about? What kind of things do you like? I'm not sure what I like because I hit my really hard but my friend Fluttershy really likes animals and I mean REALLY likes them and they like her so it works great oh! do you want to meet her? That would be so much fun! She's shy but she loves making new friends especially animal friends are any of you animals? haha that would be crazy talk! Of course you're all ponies! anything else just wouldn't make sense. Like james, he's never making any sense. He wants me to just sit around inside but I just can't because there's just so many new friends to make outside! I met one strange pony but he wasn't very nice so I gave him a good talking to young mister and he ran home in shame. I don't think any of you should be his friends until he says he's sorry then you can be best friends FOREEEVER!

Post #2
Did you see the face I made in the chapter title? It looks happy :D:D:D:D What else can this magic thingamajack do? Can it make cupcakes? Ooooh, that would be so cool! I loooove cupcakes even though all I've seen are pictures but they just look so good and now I have to make some but I don't know how and somepony has to show me. Oh! And say hi to Fluttershy because now she's here too! Fluttershy wants to say hi and that you're all very nice ponies. Okay, maybe I spoke for her but of course that's what she wants to say! Hey look there's me! I'm famous! That's so cool I've always wanted to be famous I mean I think I have because who doesn't? It's really hard to press these tiny letters and they're all messed up but it somehow know what I want to say and changes it so it's easier for me! I LOVE this magic thing! I wonder why James didn't tell me about it beofre because Fluttershy says she doesn't know anything about it or how it works but all you have to do is touch the buttons and all your friends can talk to you sort of! Have any of you had cupcakes before? Can you teach me how to make them? Oh and Fluttershy too! If I'm famous does that mean everpony knows who i am? That would be so great because then I could walk down the streets and everypony would want to talk to me and I could make friends really fast!

Post #3
Hello again! Just kidding I never left! Fluttershy wants to look at this magic typing but I want to keep talking with you! I don't think I should give it to her because we should be polite to our guests and I feel like you're my guests! Ooh! Do you all want to come over to my house? We could throw a party! Then Fluttershy could look at this typing all she wants and I could still talk to you!

Post #4
Fluttershy says she has to go feed the animals now and I wanna go see but I'm having so much fun talking to you! Why can't I do both??! I know! I'll go feed the animals now then we can talk tonight. But you have to Pinkie Promise that you'll be here to talk tonight, all right? Do it! Did you do it? I'll be back tonight and we can talk some more! I want to know what you do for fun! But Fluttershy says we can see some cute squirrels and what if this is a once in a lifetime chance? I have to go now so we can be back before James wakes up from his nap. Bye, everypony! Don't forget so we can talk tonight!

Post #5
Wow, look at all these ponies that want to talk to me! I really am famous! That makes me want to sing but I won't because you can't hear me! Or can you? lalalalalala did you hear that? Is there a thingy on this for that? I never was very good at magic. I have so much I want to say right now but these letters are tiny they should make them bigger like as big as the floor. Ooh ooh then you could dance on it to talk with your friends! Do you think James can do that? Nah, he's a horrible dancer! I think Fluttershy should teach him how to really dance then he could shake his booty at the surprise party I'm throwing him! Oops, I said it. Don't tell him, okay? Then it wouldn't be a surprise party it would be a unsurprise party which isn't as much fun. I learned a new word today! It's Fluffernutter! I don't know what it means, but it's fun to say! You should try it! It'll make you smile :D I'll say it with you: Fluffernutter Fluffernutter! Haha! Did you have a fun day? My day was grrrreat but James was being a boring pants. When he woke up all he did was give us instructions for dinner and leave for work. I wonder where he works? I just realized I don't know! Wait, what if he works at a cupcake factory? And he didn't invite me? Now I'll never know what the fox says OR what a cupcakes taste like! You ponies should come over and we can make some! I live right next to the road, so you know where to look. You said you're not ponies like James, but that would be silly! Imagine a bunch of James's walking around. I'm so glad I met you guys though! Do you want to hear a joke? Okay, why was the horse in such great shape? Go ahead, guess. Because he was on a stable diet! Get it? Stable! Haha! Okay one more, when does a horse talk? hee hee, you'll never get this one. Whinney wants to! hee hee! Did you laugh? Sometimes I like to laugh for no reason at all because it's fun and makes me happy :D Just like that face I just made. James said he would be home soon, and I want to show him all the friends I made, okay? But you have to smile really big for him because he's always so nervous I have to loosen him up sometimes. Have you ever tried to go to sleep but you just couldn't because you were laughing at something that happened that day? I think that's gonna happen tonight and I'm excited because maybe I can get James and Fluttershy to laugh with me then we can tell more funny stories until we explode! Not for real explode, of course. I hope James hurries! :D

My Post
I am SO sorry about that, guys. I fell asleep, and I didn't even think about checking my comments before I went to work, and... *sigh* oh well, no harm done. This is Pinkie Pie we're talking about. The only bad news is that she knows how to use my computer now.
Again, I'm sorry you got spammed. I'll delete it, I promise!
Okay, okay, I won't delete it! I will move it all to one chapter, though. Tomorrow. I need one good night's sleep with no interruptions, then I'll be on my feet again.
GAH! A surprise party?!
Okay, there is no way I am having a party with my parents asleep in the other room! *sigh* forget about a post tonight. Besides, you guys got several today thanks to a hyper-active pink mare. Heh, I love her, but this isn't going to be a walk in the park...

Author's Notes:

How did she get FIVE freaking posts that day? At least they're all on one chapter now to make things less confusing.

Day 9

Whew! Okay, so I moved all FIVE posts to one chapter. Now that we're a bit more organized (aside from the comments section which is everywhere), I can kind of pick up all that happened. I'm super glad you guys responded the way you did--thanks for not saying anything that would come back and haunt me. Except you, MMMBrony... why would you even bring up "Cupcakes", etc? Luckily, she didn't know too much about how the internet works. I just left it on this sight, so that's how she found it. I still can't believe she posted five times before I even found out. But you guys are the best, so thank you! I guess I should add Pinkie Pie to the list of characters, too, huh?

Oh yea, and Evedawalrus: Dude, you helped her get her cutie mark! That's awesome! It's only day 2, but she does everything fast I guess. That was the first thing she showed me when I got home.

Afternoon Post

Space. The final frontier.

“JAAAAA-aaaaames! Star Trek is on!!!” an excited voice called down the hallway.

I rushed down the stairs as fast as I could and snatched up the remote. “Pinkie Pie!” I urged, “How many times do I have to tell you?” With a flick of the switch, I turned off the TV. Then I looked at the pink mare and reminded her, “You can’t watch television when Mom and Dad are home. What would happen if they just saw the TV turn on by itself?”

Pinkie put a hoof to her chin and thought. “Umm… Think it was magic and sell it for a fortune?”

I rolled my eyes. There was no teaching this girl. “I don’t want to risk it."

"But it's Star Trek! SSSTAR TR-EK!" I mouthed the words she said next as she said them: "What's Star Trek?"

Yea, I saw that one coming. With a chuckle, I tried to explain, "Just another world the television lets you see."

"Can we go there?"

"Not today," I started walking toward the kitchen, looking for some breakfast. To my complete horror, there stood my father. Apparently, he decided to get up early and cook breakfast so my mom wouldn't have to. Curse his thoughtfulness...

"Oh, hi, Dad," I said slowly, knowing there was no way he didn't hear all that had happened in the living room.

"Good morning, James," he gave me a hug as he always does each morning. "I was wondering if I could talk to you about something."

Not good. "Of course. What is it?"

"Your mother and I are concerned. We hear you talking to yourself a lot, and we know you have a big imagination, which is great! You know we've always supported you in whatever you made up as a kid, but you're 18, and it looks a little... different for an 18 year old to be talking to imaginary friends. Do you understand?"

"Um... I don't know what you're talking about." Dang it, that was the worst possible thing I could say!

"Then who's Fluttershy? If she's not imaginary, then who is she? As your father, I think I should know about any girls you spend this much time with."

"No, Dad, there's no girl! I just... can't tell you..."

"You can't tell me what? You know you can tell me or your mother anything, right? We'll understand."

"No, it's not--nothing's wrong, all right? You probably heard me talking to myself because... I'm writing a story. And it helps me make it up when I practice what's happening... kind of. I'm just rehearsing."

My Dad smiled wide, "You're writing a story? Like a book?"

"Not really a book... just a short story."

"Well, that's great, James!" He looked really relieved and happy to hear this. "You're a good writer, I'm glad you're trying more of it."

"Yea, it's fun." Please don't ask to

"Well, I want to read it!" NO! "Yea, I really enjoyed reading that last story you wrote about that one game... Final Fantasy XIII?"

"...Final Fantasy VII."

"Yea, well, it could have been any one of those. Can I read it?"

"Um, I don't think you'd like it. Really, it's--"

"Why? I think I'd like anything that you wrote."

"Because, it's... I'm embarrassed, and I don't want you to read it, okay? It's still a work in progress. Besides, it's based on a cartoon, and I just don't think you'd like it." My dad likes cartoons, so I don't know why I said that.

"A cartoon?" He walked into the living room and brought up Netflix. "Is it My Little Pony?"

AH! The bright and colorful picture stood out in the "Recently Watched" section next to "Psych" and some show about cars. I completely forgot about that when I let Fluttershy watch it that day!

"...Or was that your sister who watched that?"

"Uh, no, that was me." He didn't look disappointed at all, just surprised. So I told him it was funny and I liked the characters, plus the fan community made a lot of really good stuff from it and had "run-on jokes" or something that made it even more fun to watch. Plus, the producer had several times taken fan-made characters and added them into the series, and what's better that, right?

Then my mom came down, and he kissed her and didn't speak of it again. I sneaked off, suddenly not hungry for breakfast, and joined Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie outside. We had decided on a place away from my front yard to feed the animals. Today, Fluttershy's gonna teach Pinkie Pie how to feed the animals, so this should be interesting.

I think it went well with my dad. As long as there's nothing morally wrong with the show, I'm sure he'll have nothing against it.

Also, I heard Luna again last night, but she said the same thing she had said before, A destiny stolen... I have no idea what it means. Maybe it has something to do with the ponies not having their cutie marks? That's all I can think of.

2nd Afternoon Post

“Here, Pinkie, like this,” Fluttershy tried to show the inexperienced mare. They were both out in the field, and I was giving them their space so as not to freak out any animals they were trying to feed. “Here you go, little rabbit. It’s your favorite: Carrots! Yum Yum! :)

The white bunny hopped over without any fear and grabbed the carrot from Fluttershy’s mouth. She looked over at me and smiled, then faced Pinkie again. “Now you try. It’s not that hard.”

Pinkie was smiling up a storm at the sight of the bunnies and the thought of getting to feed them. “Okie Dokie Lokie!” she said before hopping to the small pile of carrots they had brought with them. She picked one up in her mouth and started towards a nearby rabbit.

“Now, remember, Pinkie Pie, you have to be gentle. You don’t want to scare them,” the yellow Pegasus warned.

“Mm-kay!” Pinkie replied with her mouth full. She walked over to the bunny and leaned down. “Look!” She said as she dropped it on the ground, “I brought you a carrot to eat!” The bunny carefully sniffed the carrot. Ever so gently, it started to take a bite when it saw Pinkie standing over it with a big grin of anticipation. Startled, it hopped away and into the bushes. “Darn!” the pony stated in disappointment.

“It’s okay, Pinkie, you’ll get it. You just need to give it some space,” Fluttershy coached with at least 8 bunnies surrounding her.

I saw Pinkie grit her teeth and march back to the carrot pile. Once again, she took one in her mouth, then she ran over to the bushes and parted them with her hooves. “Hi, there! If I promise to give you your space, will you eat it? That would make Auntie Pinkie really happy!” The rabbit dashed away, followed by a, “Wait!” from Pinkie. She ran after the bunny, chasing it back forth and all around the field. “But you love carrots! You’re a bunny!”

“Um, Pinkie, I don’t think--*squeak*” Pinkie chased the rabbit right to her, scattering the bunnies that were around Fluttershy. The yellow pony ducked, and Pinkie jumped over her, carrot still in mouth, not gaining any on the terrified rabbit. “Wait, Pinkie! You’re scaring the poor thing! Just let it go and come help a different one.”

“No!” She replied, still in pursuit, “This bunny is going to eat this carrot, and it’s going to like it!” With a grunt, she threw the carrot at the rabbit without slowing down. Thank goodness she missed, but the rabbit got away. “Awww… HEY!” The pink pony turned and saw a flock of birds munching on the carrots they had set aside in a pile. “Those are not for you!”

It didn’t take her long to race over to them and scatter the flock. “If you eat all these, what will the bunnies eat?” she called after them. Then she looked around, “Where ARE all the bunnies?”

I facepalmed.

Fluttershy hurried to a bush currently occupied by several frightened rabbits. “Shh… it’s okay. There’s nothing to be afraid of. She’s really nice when you get to know her.” Then to Pinkie, “Pinkie, stand still and don’t move.”

“Okay,” she answered, sitting down.

“Are you still hungry? How about some nice, crunchy carrots? Just the thing for a healthy, growing rabbit like you!” The rabbits slowly hopped into the open, staying close to Fluttershy. She held her head up and smiled, leading them to Pinkie Pie.

When they reached her, the kind mare dropped a few carrots on the ground at the pink mare’s feet. Cautiously, a bunny approached the carrot and looked up at Pinkie Pie. After it had taken a bite and realized there was no danger, it picked up the carrot and started munching down.

Soon, the other rabbits joined in until Pinkie was surrounded by the fluffy creatures. Fluttershy flew up and placed one on her head, which brought a bird to rest there to eat. Pinkie Pie was shaking, but remained perfectly still. A soft smile occupied Fluttershy’s face before she started singing to the creatures. Figures that bunnies like singing, right?

There weren’t any lyrics, but her humming was beautiful. Fluttershy will always hold a place in my heart, because she’s the one that came to me first.

This all happened before lunch, so I’m sorry that it took me so long to post it. Oh, and one more thing…

To PinkAndYellow1025:

“Go ahead, Fluttershy. I’ll type the letters for you.”

“Oh, um… wait, you didn’t have to type that… oh, okay, that’s fine… I’ll just… PinkAndYellow1025? That’s a nice name. Um. That was really nice of you to say that, and I’m glad that you… that you… *squeak*”

“It’s alright, Fluttershy, everyone here is nice. Say what you wanted to say.”

“That’s all right. I’m sure PinkAndYellow knows already…”

“Fluttershy, there’s no reason to be afraid here. Now, I know you can do this. That you…?”

“I… um… I’m glad that he’s making friends, and”

“Now, it could be a girl, you never know.”

“Oh, sorry… I didn’t mean”

“No, it’s okay, go on.”

“Oh yea, um, I’m glad that you’re making friends because I know sometimes it’s hard, but friends are one of the greatest things you can have on this planet. And thank you for the nice comment, and I hope that you stay shy so I’m not… the only one.”

“Fluttershy!”

“*blushes* …sorry, was that rude?”

“Kind of. I’m sure you’re forgiven.”

“Oh, good. I hope he learns how to make friends and is surrounded by really nice people who love him… or her for who he is… or her…”

“Well, don’t say it to me.”

“Oh yea, um, *with confidence* I hope that you learn how to make friends and are surrounded by really nice people who love you for who you are. You just have to spread your wings and find them. Does she have wings?”

“Probably not, but she has other things like personality and talents that can help her fly, so I’m sure she appreciates the comment.”

“Oh, good! I appreciate her, too. Sometimes, we just need to be treated with a little kindness.”

“Aint that the truth.”

Day 10

Hey, guys, sorry I haven't posted today. Basically, I worked all day then came home just in time to keep Pinkie Pie from finding where we keep the coffee (major crisis averted!). Fluttershy's been keeping her from getting into too much trouble. She already knows she's from a different world, but she hasn't seen any episodes. I think Fluttershy's seen more than I have, though.

Actually, guys, the truth is I spoke with Luna tonight. But she told me it would be unwise to tell you guys what we talked about. There's something going on in Equestria, but she doesn't want you to get involved--for your own safety. I don't know... she didn't say I couldn't tell you, she just said it would be unwise.

I can tell you a few things, though. Luna's the one who sent Fluttershy here in the first place. I thought it was the wish or something, but in reality, she had been looking for someone to send Fluttershy to already. When she heard me make my wish, she knew I was the one. I can't tell you why she needed to send them here, because that goes back to what's happening in Equestria.

Luna says she's going to try every night to visit me, but sometimes she cannot make it... this is getting intense over here. She also talked with Fluttershy and Pinkie and told them they would be going back one day. She didn't say when. I... really hope it's not anytime soon.

I'm sorry that this post is just me teasing you with stuff I can't tell you, but I want you to know that I'm not just stopping posting--I'm up to stuff.

Luna's still here, but she can only stay for a bit longer. I know you guys probably have questions, and I'll answer as many as I can, but she really doesn't want you involved with what's going on in Equestria right now.

Ps. (I'll try to convince her that you guys would be a big help and to bring you on board)

Day 11

Hey, guys, I just want to say that you are all really awesome and helpful. You've been supportive of me this far, and I feel like I know each one of you. I was blown away by how much you trust me to make the right decision. Well, now I'm going to trust you guys. Luna left it up to me whether I should let you guys know what's going on before she left, and I can't think for the life of me why I shouldn't. I hope I'm not putting you all at risk, but you've earned the truth.

It all started in Equestria, when a dark evil appeared. I can't speak his name because whenever anypony says his name in any place around the world, he hears it. I don't know whether that applies to typing out his name, but why risk it? Anyway, his magic was extremely powerful. He quickly took over the land by conquering the minds of the ponies. He turned them into something they weren't... something hideous and evil. He even caught the mane six from the TV show. Not even Discord could escape him! Basically, he's mind-controlling them. They're mindless monsters now that know nothing but wreaking carnage. Their destiny stolen. Their fate re-written to suit his messed up visions.

But Luna and Celestia were both able to resist him. For days, they pretended to be under his control and managed to fool him. Since they were the only ponies left in this dying world, it was up to them to save it and the ponies that they ruled. But how?

Celestia decided that the only way to return the ponies to their original mind was to wipe them of their memory and let them re-discover who they were.The problem was that the ponies couldn't discover that in Equestria anymore. And neither could the princesses show them without blowing their cover. He had spies everywhere, so it couldn't be there. It had to be here. Earth.

Luna had been searching under the cover of night for days for someone to send somepony to. Someone who would watch over them and keep them safe along with guiding them to discovering who they were meant to be. When she saw me making my wish, she knew I was the one. That's when she sent Fluttershy down to me, knowing I knew nothing about who she was and therefor would be the best choice. Fluttershy would have to find herself on her own, and a brony wouldn't let that happen slowly and naturally (sorry, guys, but you know you would try to interfere or tell her--with the best intensions, of course). So she was left with me to watch her while the princesses couldn't, hoping that Fluttershy would remember who she was inside one day.

Then she got her cutie mark. She discovered who she was all over again from scratch. She went from the monster he had turned her into to a kind, brave pony once more. And I didn't know any of this was going on.

Okay, one down and five to go. The remaining five were still angry beasts, so one week from when she had sent the first pony, she sent Pinkie Pie down here as well with the same hopes. First, she wiped Evil Pinkie Pie's memory and then she sent her to me. That's why neither pony had their cutie mark or knew who they were or what they were supposed to do when I found them. So every week--as long as the pony as regained her cutie mark and is themselves again--Luna sends another pony for me to guide.

I finally was told all this last night. At first, I was angry that she hadn't just told me in the beginning, but things wouldn't have happened the same way, and the plan might not have worked.

That means another pony is coming on Wednesday, and it's up to me to help her find who she is. Then, when all of the mane six know what's going on, they'll go back and use the Elements of Harmony (their go-to for every invasion it seems) and defeat that monstrous shadow once and for all. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie know all of this as well, and now you're on board, too. The worst news of all of this is that as soon as he finds a way into this world, he's going to take over this one next. Why he would possibly want this world, I don't know.

Now, I don't think we have anything to worry about for a little while, and as long as the plan continues to go as it is, we should be able to beat him. That's just... a lot of pressure on me. Thank goodness I have my two ponies and my faithful readers to help me out with this.

Oh, and I hope I wouldn't have to tell you this, but I'll say it: Do NOT--repeat--do NOT tell anyone about this. That is the LAST thing we need right now.

I guess that's it. That's the situation and the plan. Now that I read back over previous posts, there was a lot of "foreshadowing" you could call it to this. The messages in my sleep, the ponies coming at night and from the moon... everything comes together. When I started this, I had no idea it would get this serious. But we have what we have, and there is no way I'm letting the princesses... or actually the whole of Equestria down! I'm just glad to finally know what's going on here.

I suddenly realized soon I'll have six ponies living under my roof... oh dear.

Day 12

Do you remember way back when some person started recording all those birds and me and Fluttershy in my front yard? Well one of the readers who follow my story found the video and PMed me about it. I, uh, almost panicked, but then... Pinkie Pie. I told her I had a secret mission for her to remove the evidence, and she chose to accept it. Then she ran and put on a ninja-like outfit (no idea where she got it) and ran out my door. Later, she told me the mission was complete. I have no idea how in the world she did that, but thank goodness the video is gone. Thank you to the anonymous PMer. We're safe another day.

I have all day today with my two ponies, and I was thinking we might finally bake some cupcakes! I haven't told Pinkie yet, but I'm sure she'll be up for it.

Haha! So, there was this cockroach on my wall last night, and I grabbed the flyswatter to kill it. I'm not scared of the things like some people, but they gross me out and I don't like them. But before I could kill it, Fluttershy stopped me and pretty much gave me a lecture before leading it outside. I thought it was funny because I wasn't expecting that from Fluttershy! She never ceases to amaze me. I guess I won't get away with killing any bugs in my house from now on.

Oh yea, and I walked in on my sister Sarah watching My Little Pony yesterday. Then we sat and watched several episodes together. She's really getting into it! The thing is, then she wanted to show dad. I didn't want her to show him because it was embarrassing, but she did it anyway. So, when he came home that night, I decided I might as well sit with them when she showed him. After we had watched "Luna Eclipsed" and "Read it and Weep" I had to ask him what he thought since I love the series so much. He said it was about what he expected it to be.

"So...?"

"So it's not bad. Nothing wrong with My Little Pony." He seemed pretty indifferent about it.

"I see," I said as I motioned Pinkie Pie to come into the living room. "So you're okay with me watching this show?"

Pinkie stood tall in front of where he was sitting and said, "Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie!" (I was hoping she would be a little more... discreet. Foolish me.)

"Why wouldn't I be? It's not a bad show." Nope. Couldn't see her at all.

"Oh, I don't think he can see me either!" Pinkie said, dissapointed. She gave a little nudge on his leg and my dad looked down and moved it.

I decided I should stop her before she jumped on him. "Okay, well I'm going to take a shower and go to bed, 'cause I'm exhausted!"

So I learned a few new things. My dad still cannot see her after watching the show, but he can feel her when she touches him. That makes sense. She doesn't go through objects, so why should she go through people? And since my dad is okay with me watching the show, I'm going to have a marathon today, if I have time, and watch a whole bunch of episodes on the big screen! I've already seen through season 2, but since Sarah hasn't, I'll have to start over.

I think today, I'll finally be able to relax and unwind. Which means a boring post for you, but a wonderful day for me :)

Day 13 ( + Evening Post)

My mom just left for work, so all I have to do is speed through school and I have the whole day with my little ponies! I feel like this might be my last day to just relax and spend time with them. Let's see: tomorrow the new pony comes, then I have to focus on discreetly urging her to get her cutie mark. After that, a new pony comes, and so on until all six are ready to go back and battle the darkness. Then once they go back... I don't know if I'll ever see them again. I mean, I'll get to spend time with them as I push them toward their cutie marks, but this might be my last chance to just go out and do whatever and spend time with them.

We didn't get to yesterday, so we'll be making cupcakes today. There is no way I'm looking back at this time and thinking, "They're gone. I didn't even get to make cupcakes with Pinkie Pie." So we're doing that, then I don't know what afterwords. If there's anything you really think I should do before I get busy with other things, now would be the time for me to do them.

And regarding my dad not seeing her, I agree with most of you guys. He can't really be called a brony, so that theory is still alive. My sister is getting there, so we'll see. Wouldn't it be awesome if she could see them, too? I'm starting to sound like Rainbow Dash. That show gets better and better the more you watch it!

One last thing (though I'll probably post again tonight): I am in love with this remix:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMzdBmABLA4

I know I'm behind in everything My Little Pony including what's really popular, so you guys have probably already heard it, but it was so awesome I had to share it!

Afternoon Post
“All right Pinkie Pie, today I have a surprise for you: We’re going to make cupcakes!”

Pinkie Pie got excited all over again, “We’re going to make cupcakes? That’s great news! Fluttershy, you should totally make cupcakes with us!”

Fluttershy stood nearby, poking the floor with her hoof. “But, I don’t know how to make cupcakes… maybe you two should go ahead, and I’ll watch,” the yellow mare said.

“But you can learn how to make them! It’s easy!” Suddenly it dawned on the pink pony, “James, how DO you make
cupcakes?”

I smiled. “Oh yea, it’s real easy. All you gotta do is take a cup of flour; add it to the mix. Now just take a little something sweet—not sour. A bit of salt: just a pinch. Whoa, there, Pinkie, I said just a pinch! Here, I have fingers, let me do it.”

“Oooh, this is so exciting!” The pink mare was bouncing in anticipation. “These are going to be the best cupcakes ever!”

I looked over at the pony standing to the side, “Why don’t you do the next part, Fluttershy?”

“I don’t know… I don’t want to ruin the batch. I’m sure they’ll taste just as good if you and Pinkie make them.”

“Oh, come on! Anyone can make cupcakes, right Pinkie?”

She started singing in response, “Making these treats is such a cinch!”

“Add a teaspoon of vanilla!” I couldn’t help but finish. It looks like it’s all coming back to her! “Add a little more, and you count to four, and you never get your fill of—”

“Cupcakes so sweet and tasty!” Pinkie resumed the chorus, “Cupcakes! Don’t be too hasty! Cupcakes!”

Fluttershy spoke, “Wait, you’re going too fast.”

“Cupcakes, cupcakes, CUPCAKES!” She threw her head back and screamed it. “Did you get all that?”

Fluttershy stood there over the mix, lost.

I laughed, “I’ll go get us some vanilla. Or do you think we should make chocolate instead?”

Fluttershy answered, “Um, is it okay if we just make Vanilla? I don’t care much for chocolate…”

Pinkie supported her, bouncing yet again, “Vanilla sounds great! Any flavor cupcake is sure to be a super-duper delicious treat! *Gasp!* But what about the icing? We can’t forget the icing!”

“Slow down there, Pinkie! We’ll get there,” I assured her, returning with the vanilla.

“James?” Fluttershy asked, “This is a lot of batter. I don’t think we’ll be able to eat it all!”

“That’s okay. I’m sure the others will want some too,” I responded, “Sarah could probably eat all of them herself.”

“Ooh! Ooh! Me too! Ah, I’m so excited!”

About 45 minutes later, we had a pan full of burned goodies. I won’t even call them cupcakes, they were such a mess. I, uh, forgot I’m horrible at baking…

But Pinkie sure loved making them. Even if they didn’t turn out the way I had hoped, Pinkie had a great time, and that’s what matters. Fluttershy was almost getting into the swing of things too for a second there!

Now we’ve got to clean up before Mom or Dad comes home. Haha! That was really fun, though! I can say assuredly that the “cupcakes” fanfic I have heard about is a lie. She is actually really fun to bake with, and there is no torture involved… unless you hate singing. Of course, you all knew that.

Evening Update

Princess Luna came tonight, but she’s gone now:

“Good Evening, Sir James,” she greeted upon arriving.

“Hello, Princess Luna. You’re English is getting better, I see. How long do you have?”

“Five minutes… perhaps. We wanted to make sure you are prepared for tomorrow. Do you understand what you are to do?”

“Yes. I’m going to help a new pony get her cutie mark, then in a week, you’ll send the next.”

“We… do not think there will be enough time for that. He will be separating the wielders of the Elements of Harmony from each other soon, so as to prevent them from bringing about his downfall.”

“He’s moving them?”

“Indeed. You will need to teach the young pony quickly, then we will immediately begin on the next. A week is too long to wait.”

“So how long do you think I have to show them?”

“A few days will be enough for thou, correct?” Okay, forget what I said about her English getting better.

“Um, yea… I hope so. Then you’ll send the next pony the next day?”

“That is the plan, yes. I should go.”

“Wait! You are aware that I told my readers about… well, everything?”

“I am aware. Let us hope your judgment was correct. If the humans expect they are in danger, it could make things harder for the both of us.”

“I’m sure they won’t. They’ll be a big help, you’ll see! Besides, who would believe them? But they are curious about why some people can see the ponies and others can’t. Is that your doing?”

“’Tis my doing, yes. I allow some to see them as suits my purpose. Children are… a special case.”

She has a soft spot for children. “I think my readers would believe more easily if I could… show them a picture? Do you think you could allow that?”

“Nay, Sir James, we must draw the line there. It is bad enough that you involve the humans, you needn’t—”

“But I’M a human!”

“My time runs short. Did you have any other questions?”

*sigh* “How’s Princess Celestia doing? Is she safe?”

“She is quite safe. He does not know we have fooled him yet. Perhaps this battle is still winnable!”

“And the ponies?”

“It is a disturbing sight, for certain. But fear not, young James, we will win back the night. Now, we—I mean, I—must go.” The night guardian exited to the outside night air and hovered outside my window. “Will you be writing this conversation down?”

“Um… yea, probably. Unless you don’t want me to.”

“Nay, it is permissible. Tell them this: James has decided to trust thee, so I too will find a way to believe in thee. For every evil human, there is yet one that is good. Let us hope you are worthy of so much of James’ time.”

“I-it’s all right, Luna, honest. You haven’t spoken to them like I have. You have no need to worry—I wouldn’t have gotten this far if not for them. And together we’ll defeat this dark plague and restore balance to Equestria! I would trust them with my life.”

“’Tis exactly what you are doing.” With that, she flew away.

Wow, sorry about all that. I felt bad typing it all up, but I haven’t kept anything from you to this point, so why start now? Before you get mad at her, remember she is allowing me to keep doing this, so she must trust you somewhat.

That’s it for today. Goodnight everyone! Oh well, I guess I’ll stay up a bit and read any comments you post. Sorry if I didn’t get to ask a question you wanted me to, I felt kind of rushed. That, and I can’t think straight in front of royalty. She’s majestic, let me tell you! Bigger than the other ponies, too. And yes her mane really does flow constantly with no wind needed. It’s beautiful.

Day 14

All right, vacation's over! I'm dedicating today to planning what I'm going to say when the new pony arrives, and how each one might get her cutie mark. I'm a little concerned that there's no farm around here if it's Applejack, but we'll deal with that as it comes. Is it bad that even though I'm doing this to save Equestria, I really hope it's Rainbow Dash so I can meet her? Plus, if it's anything like "My Little Dashie", it would be a lot of fun to--okay, back to serious. If it's Rarity, I'm going to need something for her to make... hmm, where can I find some material for her? This isn't going to be easy. I thought for a moment there that I could let her play a virtual game where she made clothes, but I don't think it would have the same effect. I guess we'll see what happens. Really depending on Flutters and Pinkie to do most of the talking at first. Kind of ease her into the world and explain kind of what's going on.

As usual, if you have any advice for me, I'm always glad to hear it. Otherwise, I think I'm pretty prepared for this. I'll post again tonight to let you know how it goes.

Evening Post

It's Twilight Sparkle. She came down in the same manner as all the others. Once she was lying on my floor, I scurried into my closet and whispered, "You two know what to do, right? Just like we rehearsed."

"Yes, I think so," Fluttershy said while still watching the sleeping pony.

"Okie-dokie-lokie!" Responded Pinkie Pie. (I'm not sure how to spell something like that)

Twilight's just now waking up, so I don't have time to post more tonight. Plus, hiding in my closet isn't the perfect posting position. But don't worry--I'll post all about it tomorrow!

Okay, so Twilight's gift is her magic... I guess I'll start her off on just lifting easy stuff, then give her some stuff to research since I know she loves that so much. Eventually, we'll get to unlocking her true potential, and she'll know that this is her destiny--thus bringing about the appearing of her cutie mark. Hopefully this will take no more than two, possibly three days, then we can begin on the next pony. Okay, I'm getting ahead of myself--first to focus on welcoming Twilight to our world and gently raising her until I can break the news. Just like with Fluttershy, only faster.

Alright, we have a plan! I'm so glad. Like I said, I'll post more tomorrow. See you all then!

Day 15 (3 posts)

Guys, we have a problem!

Okay, a few things first: Twilight doesn't have wings yet, which I guess makes sense. She didn't get those until after discovering her destiny. Also, I've been thinking that her cutie mark didn't appear because of her magic--she knew what she was meant to do when Celestia took her under her wing to be her student. Her destiny was to study and research under Her Highness ALONG with having more potential in magic than even Starswirl the Bearded. Ugh, I don't even know! What exactly is her talent that's going to cause her cutie mark? If you guys know, please help!

So, she was reluctant to believe anything at first when Flutters and Pinkie were explaining where she came from (not telling her everything, just what she needed to know), but she started believing the story once I came out of the closet. She was... pretty startled. She started using science to explain why I shouldn't exist. So I used science to explain how a talking unicorn shouldn't exist.

We came to an agreement, and I told her she would feel more relaxed if she read a book. I showed her my very small collection, and she picked out "The Hobbit" (although she is currently rooting for the dragon). That's where the problem comes in--

When she tried to use her magic to pull the book off the shelf (a habit so familiar not even memory loss could make her forget), nothing happened. For some reason, magic doesn't work in this world! At least, not unicorn magic. Fluttershy didn't lose her wings, so Twilight shouldn't have lost her magic, right?! And if Twilight can't use her magic... how is she going to discover her destiny?? And if she doesn't discover her destiny, how will she ever get her cutie mark?! Without her cutie mark, she can't be who she was meant to be, and that means she can't use the Elements of Harmony! But without her, nopony can use the elements, and Equestria is doomed!

I'm trying to stay calm so I can think about this logically, but I really don't know what to do. It looks like magic doesn't work in this world, so I'm stuck. We're still trying to practice using it, but nothing's happening. We're really in a pickle this time, guys.

kinda after the afternoon but not quite evening yet post

Wow, lots of comments while I was at work! I'll answer them in a sec.

So I got back from work about an hour ago and saw Fluttershy trying to teach Twilight Sparkle how to sing. I'm a little embarrassed to say, but at first I tried to break it up because I had this crazy idea go through my head that she might get a cutie mark for singing, then everything would be messed up. Once I realized how ridiculous that was, I apologized and let them continue. I guess I'm just tired, I didn't sleep much last night.

One thing I did do, though, is go by the library and look for a book where Twilight could root for the dragon while still rooting for the good team. I found the "Dragon Keeper" series (one of my favorites when I was a kid! Surprised that they were still carrying them), and it's perfect because the main characters use magic all the time. I showed it to her, but she hasn't had time to read any yet. I'm a little more calm now than I was when I posted last time, so I won't panic this time.

All right, comments, prepare to be replied-ified!

Um... If she doesn't ever get her magic back, she could still study science and stuff, right?Maybe since you're homeschooled, she could do each lesson along wiht you. Or even teach you, if that works.

That's a really good idea, but right now I'm doing trig/precalculus, Economics, Spanish, and reading the book "Animal Farm". What she really needs is for someone to teach her about the stars and history of the world and such... OR! Like you said, she could teach me! All I have to do is find a book about astronomy and have her read it and maybe write a report. It... might--maybe--help towards getting her cutie mark.

Could it possibly be that Twilight has suffered "magical burnout" in the journey to our world? Without another unicorn with you, it will be hard to tell if that is indeed the case. Maybe ask Luna about it?

Is that possible? I mean, it was magic that brought her here, but it wasn't HER magic... Maybe she, like, absorbed some of the magic used to bring her here and overloaded from it. I don't know, I'm just spouting nonsense. But asking Luna about it, that's a good idea. I can definitively do that.

Maybe she needs to relearn her magical skills. Oh No! We don't have a way to teach her magic other what she already knows! We need to think of something. I'll be pondering this problem.

If I only I could use magic... sadly no matter how often I tried to use the force as a child, it rarely worked (although I got very good at opening the doors at Walmart). You just jumped on here a few days ago, right? I'm happy for a fresh mind. Let me know if you have a sudden brainstorm.

>> StageQuill
Good idea! She might even come up with an explanation herself, knowing how smart she is

I think that's the real key here: she has to discover magic herself. It'll never work if someone else forces it on her. And you're right--she's smart; she'll figure it out. And we're smart, too, so I'm sure there's nothing to worry about. The only thing against us right now is time.

Ooh! Maybe you could even turn your computer's internet off briefly and have her fool around and look at it (Supervised).

She's more of a paper-and-pen kind of pony, I think. Besides, her cutie mark doesn't really involve computers considering there aren't any in Equestria that I know of.

Wait, maybe she's just like she was when she was a filly, when she couldn't do magic. So you just have to get a sonic rainboom, or some other event. Maybe just a rainbow? Hey, I just thought of something! Can Fluttershy control the weather? She is a Pegasus, after all.

Hmm... technically she should be able to, but I've never seen her do it. Plus, she's afraid of stormclouds. But you're right, she couldn't use magic when she was a filly so maybe we just need some kind of "jumpstart" for her...

Maybe she didn't use enough magic?
Or maybe you have to jumpstart her magic?

Hey, I just said that! Well you know what they say about great minds: They're named Primeoetgrunn. Unfortunately, I don't know how to do that... it couldn't be that hard. Just gotta give her a good startle. No, wait! Then she might explode like she did in that episode! I do NOT want her having a magic surge inside my house!

Then the rest basically are saying I should ask Luna, so that's what I'll do tonight! In the meantime, my dad is home, so I can't train inside. I suppose I'll be heading to that field again, where there's plenty of space.

Later than I should post

I made a huge request of Luna tonight. I asked if--instead of her visiting tonight--tomorrow morning Princess Celestia could come visit. She's going to try her hardest to make it, but "he" likes to keep her closer than anypony else. If she can, though, I think she may be exactly what Twilight needs.

From now on, I've appointed a name to "him"--not his real name, of course! If anyone were to say his name, he would know where they were, so let's not use his real name. I'm going to call him Stormcloud, I think. On account that a dark cloud covers him constantly, firing lightning at things as he passes them. Fun fact: only a handful of ponies know whether he's a pony or a monster or a demon thing because very few ponies have seen him through his surrounding fog. One thing they all agree on, though: he doesn't walk. His movement is too smooth, like he isn't moving at all, but he still moves forward. It's like Slenderman--you never see him move, but you know he does. He glides foreward without bending his legs and all you can see through the mist is his glowing red eyes, and--

Sorry, I got excited. Luna has told me a lot about him, and it just gives me goosebumps! My presentation isn't as good as hers, but that's okay because I don't want to scare you. Just hope you never have to meet him/it. I sure do.

So tomorrow, hopefully Celestia finds a time to come here and talk to Twilight.

Day 16 (1 post)

I don’t think Twilight slept at all last night. How do I know? There are books all over the floor. It’s okay—she reads when she’s nervous. Or excited. Or confused. Or bored. Or busy.

I think she was just nervous about meeting Princess Celestia. The only thing is, Celestia didn’t come this morning. We waited and waited, but she never came. I guess there was no time to slip away, but don’t worry—I have a plan!

I’m going to be Princess Celestia.

Or, what I mean is, I’m looking online for every letter she’s ever written to the princess, then I’m going to show them to Twilight and hopefully that will remind her of “The Magic of Friendship.” I know, it’s kind of cheesy, but if you think about it, her magic was strongest when she was close to her friends. So if I can remind her of her friends from Ponyville, maybe her magic will kick-start. Perhaps some of her memories will return as well.

Twilight’s currently moping and thinking it’s her fault the Princess didn’t want to see her. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie are trying to cheer her up, but I know only a letter from the princess could do that. I’ve almost finished writing them all down (there’s a LOT of them, so I’m skipping a few), then we’ll see what happens.

I can’t help but feel that… something’s wrong. I know that Stormcloud likes to keep the princess close to him, but… I don’t know. I guess I won’t really know if something’s wrong until tonight. I’ll post again later today to let you know how it went with twilight.

Oh yea, one last thing: Luna’s really warming up to you guys! She even said something about Bronies last night. I think bronies—not just children--should be able to see the ponies soon. Not yet, because Sarah can’t see them yet, but if things keep going like this, we might have a way for you guys to see the ponies, too. Maybe if she agrees, I can ask Luna to visit one of you guys and “recruit” you for our cause. That would make things a lot easier for me, because then I wouldn’t have six ponies under my roof at once. Now, that’s just a hope! I can’t guarantee she’ll agree to it, but she trusts my judgment.

imgoingin

It worked! There was an explosion, a magic surge—things are blowing everywhere! She lost contro;l and a portal opened she got sucked in. I have to post thisa before my parents come upsatiars can’t alk powerful gotta take Fluttesh and pinkie safety

Can’t do this wohtout twilight

I’m going in

I have to save her! Not sure hwere tuhjis leads ut the poertal is closing ohw or never .>if I’m not back by tomorrow something bad happened

Not ime don’t forget about me! Sorry family I’ll be back soon.

I don’t know where this leads, I pray it’s equastria notn osmoewhere bg if iN’m not back in two days

Talk, Bronies!

Where is he. I know you know.
Where. is. my. brother!
I found this site under his favorites, and you were the last to speak to him so don't tell me you don't know! You'd better start talking or I'm turning this into the police. If James is in trouble, I have a right to know about it. So start talking, bronies. I know he tells you everything!
Please. He's my brother...

Equestria Post 1

I think it's working! Hello? Sarah? Is it... no, it's not...
This spell is impossible! Sorry Luna. ...But we've tried five times tonight. My magic just isn't strong enough. Well, thanks for believing in me. Wait... I think it's...
How do I tell if I did it right or not? I--no, I messed up. Don't worry, everypony, I'll try again later. We're safe as long as he doesn't find this cave. That's right, I'll contact James' sister and she'll send Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie here so we can use the Elements of Harmony. Just hold on a bit longer, I'll get this spell right. I just... need some sleep for now... Luna, you'd better get some, too. You look beat. Well, you can try all you want, but you'll never contact them on no sleep. Well, guess what, you get to sleep at night this time. We're going to need you tomorrow.
Everypony, everything's going to be okay. I promise.
Why is my horn glowing? Does that mean--hello? Maybe I'll post it ju

Equestria Post 2

I think that did it! James you're a genius! We'll have to keep our horns together if we want the spell to stay active, though. Quiet everypony! Go ahead, James.

Sarah? Sarah, it's me, James. I'm okay! There's... something I have to do, but I'll be home soon. I'll come home soon. In the meantime, you can't tell anyone where I am, okay? Hide my laptop, I'll contact you everyday if I can. You have to be brave for me in my absence. There are a few things I need you to do, okay? So listen carefully... er, you know what I mean. This is going to sound weird, but would you look around the house and see if there are any signs of something invisible living there? As a matter of fact, they'd be invisible... ponies... wow, that sounds really weird when I say it out loud. You, uh, asked me one day if I would call you a brony, and I said I would call you a pegasister, remember? Well, if you claim to be a brony you may be able to find them. I just pray they're still hanging around the house. And you won't understand what I'm about to say, but there are people who need to be... informed. Just trust me.

Hey, guys! I'm sorry I up and vanished like that. I hope I didn't worry you. But I made it to Equestria and I'm safe! Well... alive, so don't freak out! I'm going to be here a while, I think, because the portal is closed and I have no idea how to open it again. Twilight tried before to cast this spell, but it didn't work so I combined my magic with hers this time. Obviously, it worked! Yes, that's right--I'm a unicorn. I was one when I got here, but my magic is... not very impressive, let's just say that. I'm hiding out in a cave with a bunch of other ponies that managed to escape Stormcloud's influence. And I'm happy to say Derpy is still himself, if you cared to know!

Back to the subject at hand, Luna has been trying to contact you, but she's completely spent so I don't know if it's working or not. I'm not sure what she has in mind, though, since we can't read any comments you may leave, nor can we transport you here. The mane six are assembled except for Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, so all we need is to get them here... somehow. Princess Celestia has the Elements of Harmony safely stashed away; I'm not worried as long as she's here. She has... this calming aura that makes all of us ponies know it's going to end well. I don

I'm going to the park (2 posts)

This is Sarah. I can't find the ponies anywhere in the house, but I figured they must be somewhere close. Night Heart, you're a genious! The park is a great idea. I'm going to head there now; maybe I'll find them there. James took them there multiple times, so maybe they consider it a home away from home? If any one else has an idea where the ponies could have gotten off to, let me know. Right now, I'm heading to the park.

Now I really wish Mom had let me get a phone... then I could check the comments while I was there!

I'm back! (Afternoon Post)

I found them! I found them! I went to the park, and there they were! Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie themselves! They both looked really sad, but they're really smiling now! I can't believe I'm actually with them right now. Now, if I could meet Rainbow Dash, my life would be complete! Oh, and I see there's a post from James. This is the best day ever!

Equestria Post 3 (2 posts)

Okay, James, you can start now.

Hi, guys, it's me again. No, Derpy, they can't hear you. Can it wait? All right, Derpy says hello. Why would they think that? Oh, I did? Apparently, I called Derpy a stallion yesterday, and she's honestly worried you folks might not know she's a mare. Derpy, most if not all of them know who you are, so I wouldn't be too worried. ...You can say hi once I'm finished.

Okay, so right now I'm in the cave again. Princess Celestia has been using a spell to hide the opening (it just looks like a wall from outside), so we haven't been found yet. She's currently elsewhere, and Princess Luna is asleep (she prefers to stay active at night).

The ponies here are crazy! They wanted to just up and charge Stormcloud! Of course I told them that plan--if you could even call it that--was stupid, but they still insisted on taking a vote. We're all taking a few minutes to think hard what our vote will be, but I know what I'm going to say. Twilight here agrees it's not a good idea, and Applejack is sure to vote against the assault. Rainbow Dash is all for it and is convinced she can take him on herself. I have no idea where this will go, since we seem pretty divided. Sarah, if you can find a way to get those ponies here soon, that would be wonderful! Otherwise, I think there's going to be a terrible battle later today.

Derpy, can't you tell this is more important?

If either princess were here, I'm sure they'd protest against possible bloodshed, but these ponies think they're on their own.

Derpy, James is talking right now. You'll get your turn in a minute.

Well, I guess that's all I have to say. Luna's pretty weak from keeping the cave hidden, so I wouldn't expect much from her tonight. Plus, she can't seem to manage enough magic to open any portals between our worlds. Twilight, can you have those magic surges on demand?

Um... no.

Hey, thought it was worth a shot. All right, Derpy, what did you want to say to them?

Derpy says Hi.

And she says she's the yellow one with the gray mane. Uh, I think you mean... okay, sorry, continue. She says this is really important, so listen carefully... Derpy, you don't have to stand so close. They can still hear you if you don't shout.

Derpy, this is not an easy spell. Do you think you could speed things up a little?

She says, this is vital to... *sigh* making the best muffins... extra chocolate chips. That's it? No, not the secret ingredient--is that all you wanted to say? You don't want to say you're Derpylicious? Oh, no reason. Do you mind if I tell them your real name?

I know a lot of you guys have wondered if her name is Derpy or Ditzy, so I found out for you guys. Her real name is Ditzy, and her nickname is Derpy. But she likes her nickname better, and that's what everypony here calls her, so it's practically her name. But, yea, her name here in Equestria is Ditzy "Derpy" Doo Hooves.

All right, it's time to vote. Please, ponies, PLEASE have some common sense...

Evening Post

So guys and girls... it's decided. We march tonight. A few are staying here, but most of us are moving out in a few hours. Yes, I say "us" because there is no way I'm letting them go without me. If my fellow ponies are going to fight, I'll be in the front line.

Actually, the plan is not to be noticed at all. Stormcloud has taken residence in the castle, and Luna knows that castle backwards and forewords, including secret passageways and weak defense. We're going to sneak in under cover of night and... do something. The plans are still being drawn. Ultimately, it's up to Twilight and Luna to really defeat the beast.

Things we know about "Stormcloud"--
He's a pony, so he has limitations other ponies might have.
His biggest asset is his magic. If we can find a way around that, he'd be powerless.
If anyone says his name, he hears it and can find them.
Yes, but more importantly, whenever he even thinks of somewhere specific for any reason, the clouds in that area turn pitch-black. So as long as the clouds outside aren't black, we know he doesn't know we're coming.
And maybe the cloud that surrounds him constantly prohibits his vision?
I doubt it. Do we know of any weak points?
None. Although I haven't seen him use any offensive magic at all... maybe his magic is limited to getting others to do his dirty work?
Hmm... I don't want to assume that. Derpy, you're really going with us? Do you even know where we're going? Listen... maybe you should just stay here and watch over the ponies here. We have to do this quietly, and... that face... okay, fine. But stick close to Luna, all right? Is she awake yet? Well, we'll have to fill her in later. What about the guards?
He doesn't have very many. I guess he's confident no one would dare face him in his own castle.
Good. Good. Overconfidence may be what destroys him. I still don't like this.
Neither do I, but they're going whether we go with them or not.
Wait... Celestia's still in there, right?
Yea, I think so. Why?
That might help us later... okay, guys, I gotta go. I... I wonder if i die in this world... will I die in the other?
James, nopony's going to die! Don't think that way!
Sorry, sometimes I can be too dramatic. Let's go ahead and wake up Princess Luna. Maybe she can talk them out of this. Oh! And Sarah? I don't know how involved you're getting with this over there, but you can trust the readers. And don't forget to be looking for a way to get Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie here, all right? The sooner the better. Seriously, sooner would be better. Alright, Twilight, that's i

Equestria Post 4

Now is not the best time, James!

The battle raged on all night. How could they have known we were coming? We were surrounded--pony fought against pony. And... "he" was there. Everything went pitch black. With zero vision, we could neither fight nor get away. My leg's hurt pretty bad, but I'll be alright. Twilight managed to fly us away, but everypony else is still back there!

And he got Rainbow Dash. She flew right at him, but the smoke she thought he was in was empty. Once she was stumbling through the air, he hit her with some sort of magic beam. I don't know what happened to her. Twilight's going back to save as many ponies as she can, so I'm posting now while I can. The spell doesn't work without somepony from each side. Okay, Twilight, go!

Stay hidden, I'll be back soon!

I just had a great idea! (3 posts)

Hi, everypony! Did you see james was talking to us again? He said Rainbow Dash got hit by some kind of magic beam! Maybe it's a beam that sends ponies back in time, then Rainbow Dash could be a little filly again with no memory of what happened and lost alone in the streets of a strange world with nothing but a box to live in unless somepony is kind enough to find her and help her! Oh yea my idea! I just remembered an old pony's tale that if you chant the right rhyme at a smooth body of water, you could find yourself looking into a different world! Maybe there's a way to go to a different world like that, too! Does anypony know where we can find a big enough body of water? It has to be really really smooth with no ripples at all. Oh, and you have to be able to see your reflection in it.

Afternoon Post

After a lengthy conversation in the comments section, we have a way that might get us into Equestria. We're almost there now, and I feel I need to post this before I send them over.

Oh, and PLEASE get Pinkie to tell us the words! If we can't do it with you, (for safety reasons) maybe we could do it separately.

I know you all want to know the words, I understand! But I don't know them! And I have to admit, if I did know them, opening a way for people from here to get into Equestria might not be good for the pony world. We don't even know if it'll work, anyway.

I want all of you to think about this: Do you think Princess Celestia would want a portal opened between our world and their peaceful one? And what about your family? If you just... disappeared. I have to think about both worlds here. Now, I know that's easy for me to say since I'm going to be there when the gateway is opened, and I know it may be selfish of me but... I am in the position to make the judgement call, and in serious contemplation and consideration, my judgement is that it would not be good for anybody to know the words. Not even me.

Wow, I sound like my brother. I have to make a desicion, and this is the one I've made. I feel that if any of you were in position, you'd make the same call.

Okay, we're here. Pinkie's about to try it out.

Oh my gosh, she went into the water and disappeared! Now Fluttershy followed her. That's it. They're gone. The ponies have left this world and are in Equestria.

mmmmmmmm... I think the portal's still open...

sh-should I--? No, I can't do that to my family. Not after what happened with James. Plus, I just spent all that time refusing to let you go...

But my brother needs me! I can't let him fight alone! no yes no yes no yes AGH! That's it--I'm going in! But there's a huge war going on, I might not be coming back... my staying might be James' only hope of ever getting back here!

I... I don't know! Guys, what should I do? Should I go or stay? James will be able to still contact you like before, so you won't be cut off if I go... but my family will. But James needs my help! You've all helped me and my brother so much, I trust you're in better condition to make the desicion than I am so I'll leave it up to you: Do I go or stay?

One more post

That's it--I'm going. I don't know how much longer I can wait.

Uh-oh... guys, the clouds just turned black... not like a raincloud, I mean pure black like patches of darkness. That means... he's thinking of... oh no...

I'm going in. Talk to you later I hope. Wish me luck.

Say my name

Say my name

The Game (2 posts)

Why is Sarah here?!

Sorry, guys, that wasn't directed toward you. I didn't mean to yell. I needed her to send Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie here, but I didn't want her in the middle of this! And Luna's missing, so I don't know how to get her back... I'm sure you guys probably told her not to come here, and I apologize for her... stubbornness.

Then again, I guess it's good to have one more pony in our team. She's a Pegasus, by the way. And a happy one, too! So Twilight managed to save 3 ponies from the trap. Add on Applejack, Rarity, add on the 6 ponies that stayed behind + Fluttershy and Pinkie and that leaves us 15 ponies including myself and Twilight. That's... not much. If we can find out where he sent Rainbow Dash, we'll have everypony we need to use the Elements of Harmony, and this'll all be over. He hasn't killed anypony at all yet (surprised but relieved), just kind of taken over their mind. Maybe there's a way to--AH!

HahahaHAHAHA! Found you.

How did you--?

Don't. Cut. This. Line.

Hello, people. You all wrote so much... and I didn't read a single line! "L.O.L." I allowed myself until nightfall to find James, but it seems we get to start our game a little sooner than expected. It's a simple game, and if you win, I'll release all the ponies I currently control.

J-James?

Have I ever told you how much I hate you? Grrrrr...

That's a first. Never heard a foal growl before.

Oh, you're probably used to hearing things I refuse to say with ponies nearby! What happens if you win?

When I win? Oh, nothing, I've already got everything I need. I'm just here for the challenge. That's what games are for, right? To entertain you?

You sick, twisted--!

Hold on, keep the line up. I'm not finished.

Here are the rules: Imagine a giant game board. One with mountains, rivers, it's Equestria. And now we have our final playing piece!

Hey! Wha--?

More of a pawn, really... anyway, James is under my control, now. But I'm giving him to you! That's right, I'm going to use my magic to place all of these ponies under your control! It's like a game of chess! Or Risk! Only bigger. Won't that be fun?

Nopony dies in this game. If a pony is unable to fight, it is kept in Limbo until the game is over, so you won't feel bad about leading them to their demise. All you have to do is type what you want the ponies under your control to do, and my magic will make it happen without my even knowing about it. Meanwhile I will be at the top of the castle, protected by a forcefield, ordering my ponies from there.

Any questions? Oh, right, how to win: If you can reach me at the top of my tower, You win! And all the ponies will be instantly placed safely in their homes with their right minds and everything! That's all there is to it! And that rule, by the way, is already cast, so not even I can keep it from happening if you win.

But to avoid confusion, I must ask that you assign one of you to post the actual orders. Others are free to comment, but the assigned leader's post will be what actually takes place. James here will be reading and responding so you know EXACTLY what's going on over here. He'll post whenever anything happens or if you have any questions.

Now I'll be taking questions before we begin. Do I see any hands? Anypony at all? And do remember--it's all in good fun. Nopony is actually in danger.

Edit: okay, new rule! When picking the leader--not Night Heart, and not Swift bullet! Those people have each gotten on my nerves in their own way...

~James' Post~

Alright, we'll play this game of his, but he's going to be surprised when he sees what we're capable of! We're bronies! We know Equestria better than he does I'll bet!

All right, we have our 15 ponies:
1) Apple Jack the Earth Pony
2) Rarity the Unicorn
3) Pinkie Pie the Earth Pony
4) Fluttershy the Pegasus
5) Twilight the Alicorn

6) Me the unicorn
7) Sarah the Pegasus (although I'd REALLY prefer she not fight)

and nine ponies I ashamedly don't know the names of...
Two earth ponies
Three pegasi (one being Derpy)
and four Unicorns

But, guys, listen, I think we're playing this wrong! He wants us to play a way that has us attacking him while he's in his castle. Well, we tried that. It doesn't work. What we need to be focusing on is finding Rainbow Dash. If we can find her, we have the Elements.

So two objectives here: 1) Find RD, then 2)Attack his tower wielding the Elements. It's the only way we'll be able to beat him.

Also, guys, something I want to point out: I can't post without Twilight. I can read all the comments I want, and it may still happen, but I can't update with Twilight so take that into account wherever you move us.

As for weapons... we have none. We're going to have to get creative.

I know we can do this! We have a strategist, a charmer, someone with experience, someone on the inside... what does he have? An army 50 times the size of our own? Bah! He's a pony! We are warriors!

Night 1 of the War for Equestria

ok then, first order! Send a couple Pegasi out to scout around to try to find another hideout. Stormcloud knows where you are, so you'll Need to move soon. Also, see if they can't find any food. I'll leave it up to you who to use as scouts James, as you know them better than me. In the meantime try to build a small barricade in case we get attacked sooner than we think. See if twilight can learn some combat spells, and ask pinkie if she can use unicorns like machine guns, like she did at the battle of canterlot.
Good luck.
Oh and keep derpy around to keep morale up.

The ponies split up to perform each of their tasks. Fluttershy had some of her animal friends search for food while she and 2 other pegasi looked for a new base of operations.

"How's that barrier coming, Rarity?" I called to her during my practice of spells with Twilight.

"I don't think it'll hold anything from rushing in. Perhaps we might try a magic barrier?"

"All right, then I'll practice my offensive spell on it." The forcefield would normally take three unicorns to keep up, but with Rarity helping it stayed up with only two.

"All right, just try knocking that down!"

My horn glowed and I managed to let loose a burst of energy that hit the barrier with a great force.

"Ha! This pattern is perfect! I do weave magic quite well, if I do say so myself." Rarity patted herself on the back.

"And that was a great shot, James," Twilight congratulated me, "We'll be able to take on his army yet!"

Pinkie jumped in, "And I can use my party cannon!" *Kaboom!*

Suddenly, Fluttershy returned and reported, "James! Oh... are you busy?"

"It's okay, Fluttershy, did you find a source of food?"

"Yes... but... well the squirrels said all the trees were dead except for over at Sweet Apple Acres. There's plenty of food and a clean river going through there, too."

"That's great news!"

"But they said there were some dark clouds above the whole area."

"Like how dark? Like black, dark?"

"...I think so?"

I glanced over at Apple Jack and saw her worried face. "Not Sweet Apple Acres!"

"Calm down, he'd be there by now if he hadn't already made his move. That means we know what his next move will be."

Night 2 To Free Equestria (+ command)

A lot of you have been insisting that I contact the Diamond Dogs, but I don't know where they are! They live underground where there are lots of diamonds... wait! Rarity! She can use her magic to find diamonds. I highly suggest including this in the command tonight.

I have no idea what Stormcloud played yesterday, but his forces are moving now. Not sure where they're going, but it's not here. It's strange that he hasn't attacked this cave yet, seeing as how he knows we're here. Maybe he doesn't want this game to end so quickly. He's toying with us...

And Twilight thinks she can teach the other unicorns a spell that should let them communicate with eachother. That would mean that as long as there is at least one unicorn with the group, we can talk with all the squads no matter where we are.

Rarity, I want you to see if you can find the diamond dogs. Be diplomatic with them, use logic, and if you must, offer some diamonds. And I'm sorry, believe me I wouldn't ask this of you if I didn't have to, but you may need to get dirty. But which is worse, getting a bit dirty now, or losing your boutique, your friends, and...sweetie belle.
Anyway, the rest of you need to keep scouting for new locations.
By the way, a few questions:
1. Twilight, how good would you say James is at magic?
2. Is there any way we could get discord on our side?
2.1. Speaking of which, what happened to him anyway?
2.2. And for that matter, where's spike? He could be an ambassador for the dragons (which would be frickin SAWHEEET!), but I haven't seen claw nor scale of him this whole time.
2.3. And while we're on the subject of missing ponies/dragons/draconequii, what about the crystal empire? Cadence and shining armor would be great allies, cadence for morale, and shining for his military experience.
3. Finally, a kind of weird question, would it be possible to use poison joke as a weapon for the time being?
godspe- er, celestiaspeed,
TMMMB
PS If you find a good hideout, don't hesitate to move there, pronto.

"Oh, nonononono! Going underground? To find those vile, disgusting creatures? Listen, darling... ... Sweetie Belle?
Oh, It. Is. ON!"

All right! Rarity's on the job. ...and getting rather dirty. She really loves her sister, huh?

James' magic? Hee hee, you see

I think we should skip that question for now...

He's a fast learner! He just can't learn some things because he's just a colt.

Uh... that last part wasn't necessary... maybe we should

And he's so cute!

OKAY! That's enough of that, we all know I'm really 18 not a foal, so next question:

2) Discord is locked up in the castle dungeon. If we could get him out, that would be fantastic, but for now I don't think we have what it takes yet. Add that to goals for the future along with saving the Princesses.

2.2) Spike... is one of them. Stormcloud actually changed him right in front of Twilight before he got her too. Basically Spike just runs around eating any food he sees (ate a billboard once) and collecting anything shiny he finds. I think he's secretly searching for Rarity as well.

2.3) The Crystal Empire? I haven't heard news of it since I got here. I suppose the only way there would be by train, and I don't think anyone's aloud to use it. Of course, why should that stop us?

4) Poison Joke, that's brilliant! I've never seen it myself, but I saw the episode where it's from. That would mean we'd need to go into the Everfree Forest, which could be dangerous.

Aha! An opening into some underground tunnels! Nice job, Rarity. Well... let's go in. I'll let you guys know how it goes.

The diamond dogs will join the rebel alliance in return for 500 bits worth of jewels when it's over. I told them they'd get it because we don't really have a choice. So welcome the diamond dogs onto our team!

Another thing is a Pegasus flew down here from Cloudsdale asking for reinforcements. Stormcloud is attacking, and if he takes Cloudsdale, he'll have control over the weather.

Fight for Freedom Night 3

See if we can't send some Pegasi/DD troops north, and check on the crystal empire. Speaking of which, how many Diamond dogs are there? Anyway, work on building a fort underground. Also, see if the diamond dogs can supply us with armor/spears. And James, if we have a reasonable hope of success...try for sweet apple acres. I know that cloudsdale also needs reinforcements, but we need a good food surplus before we can focus on going on the offensive.
Also, any information about the following:
•Trixie
•Zecora
•flim-flam bros.
•nurse redheart
•the wonderbolts
•the CMC
•Buffalo
•changelings
•Mayor mare
•Steve magnet
•Griffons
•Dragons
•minataurs
Edit: and evacuate cloudsdale, we can't fight a battle we can't get to. See if they can't bring supplies/vittles. (Thanks, night)
Edit: and ask the Pegasi to destroy cloudsdale as best they can. If we can't have weather control, no one can. I don't care how you do it, just destroy the weather factories. I'm sorry I have to do this but Stormcloud leaves us no choice.

We've been supplied 50 strong Diamond Dogs and more if needed. There tunnels underground go a LOT farther than I thought... we could get anywhere in Equestria from here!
And the Diamond Dogs have also supplied us with a good HQ underground, so no need to worry about that. In addition, they agreed to supply us weapons and armor, but it's obvious the other ponies don't know how to use them. Still, it's nice to have.

Sweet Apple acres: We need a strategy. There's a good size group of enemies there, but I think with some creativity we could take them. Come on, guys, we have the underground; surely that provides us with some attack plan!

Trixie: Location Unknown
Zecora: Probably in the Everfree forest
flim-flam brothers: Location unknown
Nurse Redheart: One of them
The Wonderbolts: Currently evacuating Cloudsdale
The CMC: One of them, but not fighting
Buffalo: Location Unknown
Changelings: Could be anywhere
Mayor Mare: One of them, but not fighting
Steve Magnet: Probably in the Everfree Forest
Griffons: I'll bet we could send a message to them
Dragons: I know where they're located, but I doubt they'd help...
Minotaurs: You mean Iron Will? Location Unknown.

Sorry, that wasn't much help, was it?

The ponies are getting pretty hungry. Derpy even set up a muffin stand... where you can bring him muffins to eat. Yep.

One other thing: Twilight thinks there's a book to reverse Stormcloud's spell on the other ponies in the library at the castle. I think if there was one, the princess would have just used that instead of sending the ponies to me in the first place, but Twilight insists she's seen one.

Night 4 Taking Back Sweet Apple Acres

You're going to like what you read tonight, guys! Things are looking up!

Sweet Apple Acres once again belongs to its rightful owners--the free ponies of Equestria!

Everypony here has seen the episode with the zap-apples, right? Stormcloud may control the weather, but when the zap-apples bloom, the weather has a mind of its own. No other ponies know the signs like AppleJack, so when the weather shifted so suddenly, she called the "move out!" and our ponies sneaked in under cover of darkness.

As the enemy was looking up at the sky, the diamond dogs quickly and quietly dragged them one by one under the ground. When half their army was gone, they started looking around and spotted our troops moving through the trees. With a cry, they started to attack, but this was exactly what TheMMMBrony had planned for.

As they thought us foolish enough to attack them head on, they charged right at us. However, with their focus on the small group in front of them, the Diamond Dogs continued to grab many of them and subdue them below the earth where a small group of earth ponies were waiting.

The enemy was starting to panic now, looking down then back up at what they now knew was a lure. With their focus on the Diamond Dogs below, AppleJack knew what was coming next and called them off. Right when AppleJack said they would, the apples on the trees were each struck by lightning, covered in electricity. That's when she called for the pegasi to swoop in, ordering them to buck the electric apples right off the trees down to where the enemy was waiting.

All at once, AppleJack led the charge of what used to be the decoy. They screamed their non-threatening pony screams (kinda anticlimactic) and galloped into the foe. The front of the line carried spears, but it was clear they wouldn't be needing them.

The enemy was in total panic, running this way and that to avoid being hit by the zap-apples and jumping everywhere they went to escape the soldiers down below. Most ponies didn't even need to swing a single spear as the foe bumped into each other, tripped over themselves and ran for the hills. A few of them got away, but most we have prisoner. We have maybe 70 in all. The few that ran are being chased down.

The attack was a complete and utter success! Not a single pony lost! Thanks to all of you for your brilliant strategy, and thank TheMMMBrony for his brilliant leadership skills. If we keep going like this, Equestria should be ours by the end of the week!

AppleJack was awarded a medal for her bravery and... very loud voice giving the orders. She had everything timed down to the second. Of course, we all knew she was a big planner, and today it really came in handy. Giving orders then leading the front charge has earned her a celebration, and we're all drinking cider tonight!

Except for me... I need some sleep... my sister keeps telling me I look worse every day. But I'm fine. I can't get over how well that went! War may not be pretty, but that battle was glorious!

I can't wait to hear what you guys have planned next.

EDIT: Oh, yea, I almost forgot. We sent 4 ponies into the Everfree Forest, but they haven't come back yet. I'd send a few more in to check on them, but... most are too afraid of that place to do it. It would have to be me, and they needed me here for the battle tonight.

Night 5

Alright, guys, let's do this! We've got plenty of apples, and I'm heading for the Everfree Forest. I'm taking Pinkie Pie with me (for obvious reasons) and Twilight, although I don't think I'm going to post again until tomorrow morning. If tomorrow night comes around without hearing from me, something happened, but give me at least until then.
I'll contact you soon. Here we go. Quickly... quietly... cautiously... I'll come back safely, I promise.

Sorry, just had to post it as a chapter. I've had one chapter a day, and I'm kind of OC when it comes to that stuff.

Day 6 (4 posts)

What? Morning already?

Well guys, I'm safe, and I found the scouts. Soon after I entered the forest, I noticed that several of the trees had been knocked down, so I followed them until I heard a voice call out. It was Zecora calling from her home. I hadn't known I was so close to her house, but she invited me in and I found the scouts there.

Zecora told me there was a Minotaur on the loose, and to leave the house would be foolish. She had planned to harbor our scouts until the Minotaur left, but he didn't seem to want to leave.

So I stayed at Zecora's last night. I also showed her the letter, and she said that it was the language of the Changlings. Unfortunately, Zecora couldn't read it, so I don't know if that means the Crystal Empire is in danger or not.

But here's the best news I've heard in a while: The book Twilight remembered seeing? It's here! Zecora had it hidden away, but she said I could keep it if I found it. We spent half the night searching before Pinkie walked over, moved a couple masks, pressed a secret button, and picked up the book it revealed. "I just thought, 'If I was going to hide a secret book written by my ancestors, I'd hide it behind creepy masks, too!'" Pinkie had said. The episode literally pointed right to the book's hiding spot and nopony--er, nobody--ever knew! (Wow, it's actually kind of strange to say "nobody" now... I've been here too long)

So I, hhhhhhhhh! Mm, sorry, that was a yawn... So I stayed up all night reading it, and I'll probably be reading it all day. It has everything! It even mentions earth. Did you know I'm not the first person to come to Equestria? It has journal entries by this kid--it's really quite interesting. One thing it said in an entry was that for some reason or another, when a person comes to Equestria, the new body doesn't register sleep. You can go to sleep, I mean, but it doesn't get any rest. So to my body right now, I've been awake since I got here!

I'm going to keep reading. I haven't found the spell to cure ponies that have been "clouded" if you will, but if I find it, I'll let you know. I just... keep falling asleep due to fatigue, and I'm afraid that since I'm not getting any rest, eventually I'll fall asleep and not wake up... not dead, just asleep. It's a scary thought, but I'm not going to let it distract me from learning all I can! Twilight's helping too, although she's a MUCH faster reader than I am!

I'll post again sometime today; no idea when, though. If you have anything you want me to che you--bleh! Check. For. You. (sorry) I'll see if this book covers it and check periodically to see comments and reply to them.

Post #2

Okay, there's a spell here that might work. It's not specifically to cure a mind that's been taken over by a dangerous villain known as Stormcloud, but it's close enough to try. But it's really complicated... I don't think I could do it, but Twilight might. If she can't, then the Princesses could for sure.

There's something else in here about people and ponies or something, but I can't really figure it out. I think it means something like, for every pony in Equestria, there's a person on earth as its match... or something... I think when I came here, I took over the body of my... what's the word I'm looking for? Congruent? No, no... I don't know, but anyways if this body is technically housing two beings at the same time, it would make sense that it would get any rest in sleep.

But, James, you look awful! You need sleep!

Oh! We could liberate the princesses, then they could send you back each night to sleep then bring you back during the day to be with us!

No! I'm fine. Besides, if I went back, and my parents saw me... there's no way I'd be able to get back here. I can't go back before this is over.

But you have to sleep some time! You can't go on like this forever.

Then let's finish this game quickly. All we have to do is save the princesses, get them to bring Rainbow Dash back, heal all the ponies of this spell on them, and use the Elements of Harmony to defeat Stormcloud. Easy, right? Shouldn't take... longer than... a week...

James? Don't fall asleep! You may be too tired to wake back up.

I'm awake! I'm fine. Leave me alone.

What?

No, I mean... I'm sorry. Don't worry about me. What about this Minotaur? The only one I know of is Iron Will, which means he must be under... Stormcloud's control, right? So let's try the spell out on him. If it works, we can use it on all the ponies under Stormcloud's spell. Ta-da! Problems solved. Nopony has to fight.

And, guys, I'm still reading this book. A lot of it is this guy's journal. Apparently, he came here and took the form of a zebra, living with Zecora's ancestors. That makes me wonder if I know any... body on earth who is matched with a pony from the show? I might know who Diamond Tiara is...

That's it. Anything you want to add, Twilight?

Ooh, James, here read this. Oh, and no, I'm good.

All right. Twilight, I'm sorry.

For what?

I don't know. Everything.

Why so many frowns? We have a way to save everypony now! I say this calls for a party!

A party?

Yea! With pin the tail on the pony! And music and dancing! And you can be the first to taste the punch, James! Doesn't that sound like fun?

Haha, yea. Sounds great, Pinkie. Looking forward to it.

Post #3

Orders:
If possible, get back to diamond dog hq. we can't risk trying the spell on iron will, since if it fails, you're going to get gored.
Zecora, if you can make anything that would make James not keel, please do so posthaste, and with much zeal.
YES!
...
*ahem*
Anyway, we could also use a plan on how to use poison joke as a weapon.
Zecora, I'm putting you in charge of researching how to weaponize poison joke.
And twilight, test the spell.
By the way, where are the princesses, and does anypony have any idea on how to free them from their stone imprisonment?

Wow! Zecora gave me a potion, and boy do I feel better! She told me it's only temporary, but I am SO glad to have it.

She's packing... everything. This zebra has got a LOT of potions, and she wants to bring them all. Then there's a few plants, some keep-sakes... I told we're not leaving forever, but anyway. She's also fairly certain she can make a potion to melt a hole in the forcefield covering the castle. She knows how, she just needs the ingredients. That's where both princesses and Discord are, so if we get in and out of there unnoticed, we'll have a huge step up on fire-power!

Once we're finished packing, we'll head back to HQ. Hopefully, we don't meet that minotaur and we get to practice the spell on a chained-down pony instead.

Post #4

Somehow, Twilight is walking, reading a book, and casting the spell with me all at the same time. How on earth do you do that, Twilight?

Mh-hm, yea james, that'll be fine.

Huh, I think we lost her. Anyway, she, Pinkie, Zecora, the scouts, and I are almost back to

Huh? ...oh no...

hh hhhh hhhh hh Twilight, look! The entrance to the tunnels is blocked off! There's been a cave-in!

Huh? What? A cave-in? James, I don't think that could happen. The Diamond Dogs dig these tunnels all the time, and I've never heard of a cave-in before. Besides, they could always just dig out again.

But they're not! Gimme that book! How could-- Stormcloud. I knew we hadn't seen enough of him. Guys, I'll talk to you later. Pinkie, come on!

Day 7 of the Rebellion (2 posts)

There was only one entrance into HQ (for air), but the place was swarming with Stormclouded ponies. They watched the entire group closely and made sure no Diamond Dogs tried to dig out.

With no way to liberate them and having not been seen yet, we went back to Zecora's house to make a plan. Eventually, I was the only one who could come up with one.

I told Pinkie to let herself be captured.

I know that sounds crazy, but there's something I learned about trying to contain this wild pink mare: You can't. So now she's in the confided spaces of the underground tunnels... and boy do I feel sorry for her kidnappers!

Post #2

Good news: The plan worked! The enemy ran screaming from that place as fast as they could!

Bad News: Pinkie totally trashed the place

Bad news: Stormcloud has created some device that can hurl fireballs over great distances

Good News: We are underground

Bad News: He fired at the Everfree Forest

Good news: The forest is somehow indestructible, the fire going out before it got too bad and the trees re-growing to their former height.

Bad News: Zecora's house is probably burned down

Good news: We got most of her potions and ingredients before we left

Bad news: The potion she gave me for energy is wearing off.

Good news: she has more.

Good news: She has a potion that can melt a hole in the shield around the castle

Bad news: Stormcloud and his strongest army is in that castle

*Whew!*

Day 8 (2 post)

Sorry I didn't post last night guys. Twilight over here fell asleep! Oh well, she really needed it I guess.

I've taken another of "Zecora's Red Bull" so I'm up and running again! Although it doesn't seem to be as strong this time. Hm. Anyway, I tried the spell to return the captive ponies to their right minds, but I wasn't quite strong enough to pull it off. Darn kid's body! But the good news is Twilight was able to cast it with ease. She's currently (well not this very second, but) teaching all the unicorns how to use this spell, so I believe we have achieved our greatest weapon!

Alongside that, if we bathe in that cure for the Poison Joke before touching it, it won't affect us. So if we can find a time to head on over to the market in Ponyville, we could get the herbs we need and turn the blue plants into yet another weapon against the enemy! Does anyp... body else think things are a little too easy? Like, Stormcloud hasn't attacked us hardly at all (except yesterday when he caved-in the tunnels and shot at the forest), we've only been in a few battles, but we haven't had any casualties... maybe it's because we're playing smart and avoiding directly fighting. I tell ya, all of your knowledge of this world and what can be used as weapons is kinda impressive. Now... if only we could find some Parasprites!

One other thing, if I could suggest some near-future goals: Crystal Empire (and possibly recruiting the Changlings), getting into the castle to free Discord and the princesses, curing as many ponies as possible with the new spell. Honestly, I don't see how we could lose now! Let's wrap this up!

And is it strange that I dreamed of me and the ponies in a rap-battle against Stormcloud last night? I still remember most of the lyrics, too. Yea, that's weird...

Post #2

Send a SMALL force into ponyville to get some poison joke.
Continue using the "reforming" spell on as many prisoners as possible.
...and build up more defenses.
And other than this, I order you to act at your own discretion.

Just about all the prisoners are bouncing around and colorful. We will soon have some poison joke in our arsenal. As for our own discretion, I'm going to spend the night training myself and the earth ponies how to use these spears. Then we'll all get a good night's sleep to be ready for whatever the plan is for tomorrow.

About the spell, it takes its effect on the heart, so it has to be directly used on the target. We have to actually touch the target with our horn. And I say "we" because I've almost got it down! I haven't been able to get it quite right, but I'll have it soon I think.

And the rap battle? Haha! Well you have to remember that this was a dream, which means it's going to be strange. Add that to the fact that I can't rap, and you get this:

(Fluttershy)
You stand before the great Fluttershy!
The bronies killed the last pony who dared to make me cry!
My element is kindness, but you wouldn't know about that,
'cause you get your kicks and giggles from sitting in a castle getting fat!

I've tamed Manticores! You can't even tame your mane!
You have to kidnap some ponies to get anyone to say your name!
I've never heard of you before--you must be new,
I'd show you around, but even the clean air avoids you!

(Stormcloud)
Oh, Fluttershy, afraid to show your face?
I would be too if I always finished in last place!
I'm the king of Darkness! You're only friends are the birds!
Pretending you can match me, you've never seemed so absurd!

You tamed the wild beast, or it's just afraid of your smell?
I'm not very impressed, if you're not too naive to tell.
There's a reason you're only loved in the Brony community,
And your most popular line is, "I'd like to be a tree!"

(ApplaJack) "You leave her alone!"
My bucks are so strong, they knock the apples from their place,
Just come a little closer, so I can do that to your face!
My element states that I would never tell a lie,
And, suger, I'm saying, "You are one ugly guy!"

Yeehaw! It seems this war is already won!
How can we lose to somepony whose own parents wish they didn't own?
You say that you can make us all disappear in a poof,
But All I see you doing is being stomped on by my hoof!

(Stormcloud)
Oh dear, it's AppleJack, the pony who sleeps with pigs,
I wouldn't be surprised if you mistook a goat for your own kid!
And don't get me started on that wasteland of a farm,
I can't count how many times you've had to raise that barn!

Your losing this fight! Your rhymes have no bite!
You're the only pony here who hasn't been in flight!

(Pinkie Pie) "You can't speak to AppleJack that way!"
My name is Pinkie Pie, and I am here to say,
I'm going to bring you down, and you will forever rue this day!
I'm the breaker of fourth walls! You'd better hope my mane stands tall!
Physics can't hold me down, let alone the most ugly of them all!

When I laugh the darkness flees,
I don't dodge--danger avoids me!
When you want to start a war, who makes a stupid game of it?!
Now come here, "friend", I have a cupcake with your name on it!

(Twilight)
I matched the Princess's magic when I was only four,
Nowadays, I could out-cast you for sure!
My idiosyncrasies dominate this fight!
When I thought I couldn't get better, suddenly I have flight!

The leader of the mane six, now the leader of a kingdom!
Even the princess bows down to my great and awesome wisdom!
You changed the weather, I saved the world!
Hang your head in shame-- You've just been beaten by a girl!

(James)
Your super power is you let others know your plan,
You wish you could be the great time traveler that I am!
When you visited other kids, did none of them want to play?
Did your mother drop you when you were born? Or just throw you away?

I'm glad you hide behind that cloud, your face looks like Granny Smith's rear!
Now listen closely--this I want you to hear:
You've awakened the beast. Your luck just ran out.
The human race rises in the east. This time you've finally struck out.

(Stormcloud)
What is this flea I see before me? 'Tis nothing but a foal!
All the schemes you've concocted, every one of them you were told!
As soon as your life got hard, you went running to a fandom!
But now you're all alone, wet, lost and abandoned.

You forget your parents at the first chance and left,
now I see all along you were nothing but a--

Then I woke up.

Phew! I think that potion's wearing off... that didn't last as long as I thought it would. I still feel like I haven't slept in days... ugh, I'm going to bed. Night people.

Day 9 (3 posts)

All right, I'm sorry I haven't posted before now, but I've pretty much spent all day today finding as many ponies to change back as possible. My report: We're running out of room, haha!

There have been a few fights, though. I think in all we lost around 5 earth ponies, 3 Pegasi, and 3 Unicorns. Some of the ponies didn't want to be changed back and other times there would be some castle guards wandering the street. These are our first casualties in the whole game, I think. And remember the ponies aren't dead. They literally vanished and supposedly are in limbo for the remainder of the game.

But the good news is, about a third of the unicorns have already mastered the spell (I'm getting there), so we've covered a lot of ground. As of right now, I'd estimate our numbers to be (including the prisoners which are also changed):
200 Earth Ponies
100 Unicorns
70 Pegasi
Then there's also the mane six, me (Sarah will not fight as long as I can help it), the Diamond Dogs, etc.

The tunnels go really far, but most of the tunnels run too deep for us to stand the heat. So we need to either make more tunnels or find a second HQ.

Stormcloud currently has... I have no idea. HUNDREDS for sure. Occasionally I see a group of Pegasi fly overhead, but I don't know where they go. Probably just scouts. He also has control of Cloudsdale, Sweet Apple Acres, the castle, the train system, and possibly the Crystal Empire.

That's just a little sums up of where we stand. And a reminder that we win if we reach Stormcloud at the top of the castle (and I'd assume fight him although I don't remember him ever actually saying that). But we can't fight him without the Elements of Harmony, which we need Rainbow Dash to be able to do. RD is currently going through the events of the story "My Little Dashie", I believe. No idea how to get her back here.

I think we should fit as many orders into tonight's post as we can. We certainly have the troops for it, but we need to be extremely cautious at the same time. After all, Stormcloud hasn't made his move yet either.

Post #2

Hey, guys, we know what's been going on in the Crystal Empire.

So we should form a squad and go save my brother!

Just a minute, Twilight. So, it would seem that that single guard that's been in front of the train station? (Talked about in the comments, but not actually posted in a chapter) Yea, he was the sender of that letter. It would seem he's a changeling who knows the world Stormcloud is trying to make won't help them i the slightest.

But the Crystal Empire is swarming with changelings!

Twilight, would you like to tell them?

Sorry. Go ahead.

No, I was serious, you take over. I'm... still not really in my right mind.

Oh, okay. Greetings, my name is Twilight Sparkle.

The words are purple, so they know.

Oh, right. Well, the Crystal Empire is completely unaware of everything that's going on because Stormcloud replaced Cadance and my brother with Changelings!This kind changeling says they won't let anypony leave or enter, but he could get us in if we wanted him to.

So he sent us the letter to let us know he would be waiting at the train station.

Exactly. So tonight, we go in, find my brother, and restore the Crystal Empire to its former glory!

Uh, but it's up to you guys ex

We don't have a choice! This is my brother we're talking about. We're going to save him!

Of course we are, but we need to wait until the right moment and have some sort of plan.

Oh, I have our plan. First we all put on cloaks and pretend to be changelings in disguise, boardng the train to the Crystal Empire and sneaking into the castle. Then, we have a few pegasi make a distraction outside the castle walls, to which the phony Cadance and Shining Armor will go investigate. This will give us the chance to investigate and see where they're holding Cadance and my brother!

Um...

And as a back-up plan, we have the poison joke. We can grind it into a powder and have it sprinkled onto the guards!

Well...

A book I once had says that changelings are drawn to love, so if we need them to be far away, we can re-unite AppleJack with Applebloom and be ready to pull them out at the last moment!

Oh yea, we found and cured Applebloom and were going to surprise Applejack tonight.

I have everything scheduled to the second!

Wow... you did all of that fast.

It's a gift.

She said proudly, glad to finally put such a gift to such an important

James, this is serious! Spike, did you get all that?

Got it!

Get what?

Spike wanted to help, so I told him to write down everything we post so we can know exactly what we said later!

But we can just

What do you think?

Well, I think it could work, except for a few

Sorry... I was talking to them. You just get some sleep, I'll take it from here.

Sleep doesn't help, you know that. Besides, you have to have somepony from each world to cast the communication spell.

Actually, I researched that. I didn't realize it, but the first time I tried to contact them without you, it went through without my knowledge. We posted a chapter without even realizing it! So in fact, I believe I should be able to use the spell without your assistance. Of course, your assistance is always welcomed and I would prefer you be present, but you look like you really need a rest right now.

Oh... really? Okay... I guess I'll just... stand over here, then...

I really would like you to be present in the future, but what you need right now is sleep. I don't mean to be rude

No, I understand... you're just looking out for me. Wouldn't want anything to happen to me, right? I'll just... yea, sleep.

So it's still working? We're on? Yes! Okay, so about tonight

And you know how to post it, right?

Yes, James, we've done it several times.

Right. Wait, can't I just take another of Zecora's potions?

Taking too many potions can make you ill. I wouldn't risk it. You just relax and leave everything to me.

O-okay. Hey, you'll wake me up if

Of course.

All right. I'll talk to you guys later, I guess.

I really didn't want to send him away, but he just looks so awfully tired... let's discuss saving my brother. I've got it all planned out. What do you think?

Meet with sapphire. Ask him about the hive mind, if it exists. In general, try to figure out if we can trust him. And if you think he is our friend, feel free to enact your plan ASAP (as soon as possible).

She went without me? Well, fewer ponies have a better chance of not being spotted, I guess.

James, have you seen Pinkie? Her Pinkie sense will surely come in handy.

What?! But... I just saw you leave!

You couldn't have. I've been rallying the ponies who want to go.

But-but you just... oh no. Oh crap.

You don't think--?

How does something like this happen ever single time?

Who does he have?

Not many. But he's got Pinkie... and Applebloom.

Oh dear.

Do you think Stormcloud planned this or the Changelings did it on their own?

Either way we have to rescue them!

All right, let me just--

You're not going anywhere. You just threw up, you need to lie down.

But sleep doesn't do anything!

But you at least need to stay still and use as little energy as you can. Go find Fluttershy and talk about old times. I'm going to find Rarity and leave. Spike, you're coming with me! The bronies came up with a terrific plan we can use.

Dang that... Stormcloud... lying down does seem like a good plan... I'll talk to you tomorrow, guys... thanks for... everything...

Day 10 (5 posts)

All right, we're in! Spike?

Yes, Twilight?

Take a letter.

With pleasure! "We're on our way"

Wait... do you hear that? I hear crying! Applebloom! Come on, she's this way!

Post #2

Everypony okay?

Ya'll nearly got yerself killed! We heard yer cryin' and rushed over here quick as we could.

See, Applebloom? I told you it'd work! My fake crying is PRETTY convincing if I do say so myself. Maybe I have a future in show business!

That was Pinkie crying? You know what, it doesn't matter. Do you know where they're keeping Cadance and my brother?

They wouldn't say! Aren't bad guys suppose ta tell you their master plan when they ponynap you?

Quick! Put this on!

Um... this is a chicken costume.

Exactly! They're looking for ponies, but WE'LL be disguised as harmless chickens! Do your best chicken impression. Here's mine

Pinkie, we don't have time for this! Can you use your Pinkie Sense to locate my brother or not?

Don't have to! They're this way.

Now how in tarnation d'ya know that?

Oh, it's easy! Everywhere else smells like rotting cheese, but this way the air is less foul. My great granny Pinkie told me whenever you're not sure, always follow your nose! Of course, she was talking about baking, but it's still great advice don't you think?

Well, what're we waitin' for? Let's go save them!

Hold on there, missy! I'm gettin' you outa here, first. This is no place fer a filly to be runnin' around.

But, Applejack, I caint just sit back and do nothin'. I wanna help!

I agree it's not safe, but there may be no time to get her out and still make it in time. Come on, we have to keep moving.

Wait, do you hear that?

Yea, sounds like some more of them changeling creatures!

RRROOOAAAAARRRRR!!! RAAAWWRRR! GRRRROOWWLLLLL!

Ahh! There's some fearsome creature in the castle! Call the queen, it's a dragon!

*Squee*

Works for me, let's go!

Post #3

Before you say anything, just know I was trying to save you.

James, what were you thinking? You're in no condition to be moving around like this.

I know, but when I didn't hear from you for a while, I just thought... sorry...

It's okay. I know you were thinking of us.

Don't worry about it, sugarcube. We'll find a way out of this.

If you guys are wondering what happened, which I'm sure you are, I went to go rescue Twilight and managed to get myself caught. Then Queen Chrysalis used me to capture the others as well, and... now we're sitting in an underground barred cage with Cadance and Shining Armor.

And we need ta figure some way out of this!

I might be able to use my horn to heat up and soften these bars until they're soft enough to bend. Then Applejack could buck them off, and

I'm out!

Huh? Pinkie?! How did you escape?

I just went between the bars! They're far enough apart to squeeze through. If you had been paying attention, you would have seen Applebloom do that five minutes ago! She's snagging some keys from some guards right now, so you'll be outta there in no time!

Well, I see how Applebloom squeezed through, but how did you?

Twilight. There's a saying on earth you may need to keep in mind. Don't question the Pinkie logic. You'll only drive yourself crazy. ...and we don't want to see you crazy. Trust me.

Okay. But when we get a chance, I'd like to watch her a bit and study how she does these things. For now, let's just focus on getting back home. I think Sapphire's around here somewhere.

Sapphire? That traitor! The first chance he got, he

No, James, Queen Chrysalis got wind that he was betraying them and switched him out with a different changeling to pretend to be me and lead the group here. We can trust him.

Hmm... we'll see... now, here's the plan the readers came up with to get us out of here with both your brother and his bride. Contact the other unicorns, and we'll get started.

Post #5

Hey, guys, I don't know why the last post didn't go through. Twilight tried to post while we were running. I don't remember much except us passing a carriage and Twilight yelling to stick to the plan. I only remember that because I remember you guys talking about it earlier and it got me a laugh. Anyway, we're safe and with Shining Armor and Cadance. Not sure where Sapphire is.

But I'm posting to let you guys know something happened. If we were planning on getting into the castle, we may need a new plan. I don't know how he did it, but Stormcloud put together some kind of propeller-thing and literally lifted the castle into the sky. Actually, it's several propellers... anyway, the castle is now airborn and traveling the skies. It's been going around blasting its fireballs at random places. Say goodbye to Sweet Apple Acres (even though he controlled that territory in the first place).

Another thing I wanted to say is I'm letting Twilight take over for good. Everypony here seems more comfortable following her, and I'm feeling worse everyday. So I'm going to focus my attention on finding a way home, and Twilight can lead from here. I'll stay in touch, probably. But... I feel like I'm dead right now. It's been over a week, and I feel like I haven't slept since I got here. And who wants to follow a child pony who can't even see clearly? But don't worry, Twilight knows what she's doing!

Day 11 (3 posts)

Did James tell any of you where he was going? Nopony's seen him since last night. I hope he's okay...

Sapphire here says he's gained a position as a guard inside the castle which allows him to hear just about everything that goes on. Stormcloud is using a lot to keep that castle in the air--propellers, something called a genjin, magic--but he needs to lighten the load. As such, he's going to be moving the princesses in their petrified form tomorrow night. However, that's also the same time Queen Chrysalis agreed to meet us about a treaty to defeat Stormcloud. Most of us agree that this chance to save the princesses is more important than even a valuable team like the Changelings. I'd like to hear which one you think we should prioritize.

Are you talking to the readers?

Hi, Fluttershy. Yes, we're discussing tomorrow. Planning ahead and stuff like that.

H-hi... um, did you tell them James was missing?

Yes, they know.

We really need to find him! What if something horrible happened? Or he collapsed somewhere? He wasn't feeling well... I even wrote him a lullaby to help him sleep...

Don't worry, Fluttershy, I'm sure he's fine. We'll find him. Do any of you know where he might be?

Post #2

But I don't WANT to do this without James! ... I guess we're on our own. That leaves me in charge, so here's what we'll do: I need to speak with Chrysalis and convince her to reschedule to tonight, so we'll be able to focus all our attention tomorrow on the rescue team. We can't just send some ponies over to them, that wouldn't end well!

Well, Darling, we can contact them very easily.

Oh, good afternoon, Rarity.

Is it afternoon? It's so hard to tell in these damp, dirty caves. I think one time down here is enough for any girl, wouldn't you say?

We know you don't like these caves, Rarity, but they're only temporary. You have a way to contact the changelings?

Ooh! I know! Rarity could use her expert crafting skills to make the perfect paper airplane! Then we could write down a message and throw it really hard so it flies all the way to Crystal Empire!

Actually, couldn't we speak to Chrysalis the same way we speak with the other unicorns in our group?

I don't know if that would work.

Then why don't we wait until tomorrow and do both at the same time? I think I for one would be very effective at convincing the queen to join our cause.

Well, if we did both at the same time, I could only go to one...

I have that problem all the time! First I have to be at one place, then I have to ruuun over to the next, then ruuuun back before I miss anything! It just doesn't work!

I guess I'll just have to go to one of them. Hmm... I'd LIKE to help save the princesses, but Chrysalis will probably want to speak with me...

Post #3

Hey, guys, it's Sarah. This whole business started a month ago, and we're all still alive! If James were here, he'd probably say something here as he always does, so I'm going to say something for him.

Uh... well, first off I'd like to thank those who have been here since the early chapters. A lot of things have happened since then, and at least a few of you are still here which is encouraging. I wasn't there--well, I was but I didn't know--so thanks for helping out my brother. He'd probably start naming names, but I have no idea, so sorry.

Let's see, what else would he say? Probably that his birthday wish came true in that he gained some friends and he's never been happier despite this world's existence being in danger.

That's all I got. I suck at speeches. When we get James back, he can thank you in person. Or... you know what I mean. That's all, Twilight.

New Chapter

Heya, James!

Ah! Derpy? What are you doing here?

Why are you out here all alone?

Because I can do whatever I want. Now go home.

Me too! And I want to come with you.

Just--whoa! Hhh... fine. I guess I wouldn't mind a little company.

Yay! Where are we going?

I don't know. I'm just... going. Hopefully I'll find something to help me get home.

You're leaving? For good?

Well... I... uh, yea. Listen, it's not you. You've been a good friend, but I'm just getting in the way now. I'm just going to go home and help like the rest of the bronies are. Twilight can lead them and I can rest. It's that simple.

Why don't you want to stay?

Because of what I just said.

We all want you to stay...

Hhhh... well, I can't.

Do you wanna talk about it?

No. We're done talking about this. Me leaving is best for everypony, and that's that. I'm homesick and I don't want to talk about anything else. Can we just walk and not say anything?

Sure! I like walking!

Good.

This is fun! When are we going back?

We're not.

Never?

Probably.

But then we'll never hear another joke from Pinkie...

I... guess I won't...

Or see if Rainbow Dash ever learns to do a double sonic rainboom.

Haha, yea... I'll bet she could if she tried hard enough...

And Rarity said she would make me a new outfit!

That's mighty nice of her.

I'm going to miss her...

Then go back. Nopony's stopping you.

But I want to stay with you!

You don't want to go with me. Think about never... ever... seeing your friends...

...

...ever again...

If I never saw them again... I think I might cry...

Well... where I'm going, y... you won't. Huh...

Where you're going must be really important.

Yea, I guess so. Could you give me a little space?

Tell me about it!

Uh... hmm, well, there's a lot of the same animals. Plus some you haven't seen before.

I like animals!

Me too. And there aren't any unicorns--only humans.

Like you!

Yea, like me.

I bet you have a buncha friends, don't you? What are their names?

Actually, not really... nopony really wanted to be my friend. I didn't go to public school, and the other people I met didn't really...

Yes?

Well, you know how it is. What with your... um...

My eyes?

No! I like your eyes, and so do all the bronies I know.

It's okay, I know I'm different. Are you different in your world?

Um... not extremely... okay, maybe a little... honestly, I'm probably exaggerating my memory, it has been a while.

I know what it's like.

...

I have a letter for you.

You do?

Yea, it's from Derpy Hooves! That's me!

Haha, well, thank you. Should I read it now?

Oh! I should go before somepony misses me. Wouldn't want to just disappear, would I?

Um... sure.

Bye! I hope I get to meet you again, James!

Me too. I really do.

Heh... that Derpy's a really nice mare... let's see..

Isn't it great to be different?
Isn't it wonderful to be exactly who you are?
When you learn to start accepting yourself,
You'll become a shining star.

...
...
I've heard that before... it's a song... I... Derpy? Is she--? I heard it a long time ago...

...
...

Home...

...
...

You'll have to wait. Forgive me, Mom. Forgive me, Dad. But I can't quit this yet. I won't leave this world to burn. I don't know what I can do to help, but...

mm, hhh... aahh! Maybe I'll just... lie here for a bit, and go back... soon...

Guys, I know you're reading this... I'm not giving up, I'm just... rhtrnn...

...

...

...

...

...

..

.

Day 12 (2 posts)

Well, there's still no sign of James... and we've thrown in the towel.

Only temporarily. Right now, we have to plan for tonight. We have the meeting with Queen Chrysalis at the Crystal Empire and Stormcloud moving the princesses to the bog at the same time. Which means I can only attend one situation.

But Rarity can go to the other and communicate with you, right?

That's correct. So we need backup plans, and to decide which I will be attending.

Post #2

Rarity, you're in place?

Almost, darling. I do hope they know never to keep a lady waiting.

Okay, they should be passing overhead soon. Sapphire, you're ready? Good.

Here they come! Into the trenches!

That's... a big castle. Did Stormcloud make it even bigger?

First he steals it, then he changes it? Now, if that don't beat all, him walking in like he owns the place. If I ever get tah meet the fiend who burned down mah orchard, I caint be held responsible for what I'll do!

That's princess Celestia! Sapphire, you're up!

-----

There you are, your highness. I should have never thought a queen would be late for anything as important as this. After all, this is the opportunity of a lifetime!

Ah, the white one. I was hoping for somepony else.

What? I beg your pardon, what's wrong with--nevermind. This plan of yours is brilliant I must say. If we worked together, we could kick Stormcloud out of Equestria for good and you would never have to work for that bad man ever again.

You designed the gown.

Oh, did you like it? I'll admit it was one of my better pieces, but you, you beautiful creature, you made it better than good!

Let's not beat around the bush. You want our help defeating Stormcloud.

Well, actually, you contacted us and asked if you could--I mean, yes, no other being could help as much as you, being so powerful and--

What's in it for me.

I must say, you are being quite calm about all this. Used to be you were always laughing and plotting, trying to be higher than everypony else.

I was kept from my only wish to feed my subjects for many years. Many of them lost their faith in me. Then Stormcloud attacks me! I'm not in a laughing mood.

-----------

Where's Princess Luna? All I see is Celestia up there.

Ah don't see her either. Maybe somethin' happened.

Look! Sapphire's waking up the Hydra! Boy, it looks mad... it's chasing him! Sapphire's leading it to the castle. All's going well...

-------------

Well, then why don't we get ourselves some old-fashion revenge? It's the only kind of old-fashion I approve of. And between you and me, nopony is as good at revenge as I am.

Yes. Let's.

H-hey there, there's no need for a fight! Call off your men, and let's talk about this. We're both civilized beings, right?

We will fight Stormcloud whether with you or not! But we require something first.

Oh? What is it you want?

When Stormcloud is no more... we will need food. We want a way into James' world.

------------

There! The soldier are in a panic! That hydra is reaching all the way up to the castle!

Yeehaw! He'll do all the fightin' for us, now we send our troops in and snag the princess lickity-split!

Hold on... it's coming off the ground. Stormcloud.

What a mighty beast! I do believe it will serve my plans just fine. Ack! Hmm... maybe a bit too feisty, though.

What's he doin' now?

He just... shrank it. Just like that. Here it comes... and there it goes. That huge beast, defeated in mere seconds!

Somepony woke that thing up! And now it can't eat her highness... I suppose I'll just have to drown her instead.

?!

And search the area! They're here, I know it.

------------

That's absurd! Even if you could go there, what do you think you'd find?

Stormcloud has drained this world, but in the other, the people still stand together. That's the deal, take it or leave it!

Oh dear...

------------

There's some ditches dug down there, sir!

Then check them. What, you waiting for permission?

They're right above the trenches!

-----------

Wouldn't you like a lovely new crown? It would make you seem so superior and elegant! Why, with a crown like that--

I have told you my price, now accept my offer!

(Sarah... we may need that escape balloon...)

--------------

Hhun, ah! There's nothing in them... nothing but these blue flowers.

Why? Why must my soldiers be such idiots? Get out of those! That's poison joke! Hmm... they're here... somewhere.

Ponies! I have your princess! Will you hide and do nothing? Hmm... lower her.

You got it boss.

Oh no! The princess! She's being lowered toward the murky water! If you do nothing now, you'll remember this moment always as the time you let the princess--

Let go of her!

Got ya!

Ahhh!

Twilight!

Get Applejack!

Ya'll come get some!

---------------

Maybe if you tried fitting in, you wouldn't have to--

Impossible! Who would want to stay here? It's so clean and pink!

Well, I'm afraid I'm just going to have to decline your offer. We will not be teamed with such a creature who would devour us when it was over! We're going home. And now you'll never get your revenge. Ha!

No! We must have it! We'll agree to anything, just let us have the kill... let us find what Stormcloud loves so we can feed off it in front of him!

You fool! You never agree to their terms! We make the terms!

What? You're not the... now there's two of you? Oh, this is so much stress!

I was going to let my subject do the talking in case it were a trap, but I see you were too dimwitted to truly take advantage of this as I have.

...My head hurts... are we still talking about the treaty?

Yes... let's talk.

Oh! Have you never heard of personal space?!

------------------

Stormcloud, stop! The princess is who raises the sun each morning! Without her, Equestria will die! You won't even have anything to rule!

Hahaha! My magic has kept this place running just fine in her absence, and so shall it be when she's gone for good. You underestimate me, Twilight.

But this isn't balance. No pony will talk with each other. Everypony is bitter and hateful. Shops aren't being run, seasons aren't changing, how can you think doing all this is possibly good for Equestria?!

Frankly, I don't care. Ha! I thought you'd have figured that out by now.

Twilight!

Now say goodbye to the princess. Shame you didn't get to send her one last letter explaining how you failed her. I would have liked to read that one.

Stormcloud!!

What the--

Rarity, you did it!

Twilight, get the princess!

Wah! Uff! blblb,

Happy to see me?

How many times does it take to kill you?!

We got her, go! Applejack, hop in!

Good thing Pinkie had this balloon! I caint believe it's carryin' the weight of us and the princess.

I think... we're safe. Rarity, you did it! How'd you convince them? What did you say?

Oh, Twilight, forgive me! I made a terrible mistake!

What? What happened?

I told them they could go to James' world when the war was over! Of course not right away, but that Queen Chrysalis has quite the silver tongue.

You told them what, now?! We caint let that happen!

And we won't. I just need some time to think... did all the ponies fit in one balloon?

Naw, it took two. What're you thinkin'?

I may have a plan to make them change their mind about going to James' world. Sarah, you doing okay?

Uh... yea... hhhh. I'm good.

Don't you be yawning, Sarah!

It's just a yawn. It doesn't mean anything. Are we going to free the princess tonight?

As much as I'd like to, we'd better wait until tomorrow.

Day 13 (4 posts)

Twilight finally found a spell to release the princess! She's been speaking with everybody, and everyone seems really ready to fight for Celestia. We're about to go get Rainbow Dash.

But first we need to get our stories together! How about this: Twilight was trying a new spell, when WOOSH! Rainbow Dash gets swept up and carried into the other world!

Why do I have to fail a spell? I haven't messed up a spell since--

No, that's good. Okay, we have our story. Maybe I should stay here....

Sarah you have to come with us! We need the whole gang to help find her.

Whee! This'll be fun! Rainbow Dash is going to be so happy to see us!

Okay, get Princess Celestia. We're ready to go.

Post #2

I... I convinced Princess Celestia to let Rainbow Dash keep her memories. I doubt he knows that, but... she'll never forget him.

It seems that her memories of this world are overshadowing the memories of earth, though. Occasionally, she'll sit and try to keep her memories of that life fresh, but with time, I think they'll move to the back of her brain. She'll never forget fully, but at least she can move on...

I stayed outside and listened from the window. Which is good because... I wouldn't want any of them to see me cry. If I had read the story, I would have known what was coming, but... anyway... hhh, I just don't know what to say... I wish James were here...

The good news is, we can use the Elements of Harmony now! So... yea... I'm gonna go for a walk. Thanks, Twilight, that's it.

Post #3

All right, is everypony ready? Tonight is the night! Tonight we stand together and defeat Stormcloud. He may be strong, but our friendship is stronger, and with it, we'll harness the Elements of Harmony once more! No evil has been able to stand up to us in the past, and so shall we be victorious again! So don't be afraid, my friends, of the big castle. Don't be afraid of this dark horse. As long as we have each other, nothing can stand against us! Now, let's go!

You tell 'em, Twilight! That pony doesn't know who he's messin' with!

Maybe we can do this... I mean, of course we can. Yay!

We don't need any more encouragement, Twilight, he's had this coming for a long time!

Yea! Let me at the big jerk! Think you can mess with Rainbow Dash? Think you can just play around with Equestria?! Not on my watch!

Then what are we waiting for? Let's go kick some butt!

All right, let's do this!

Wait... where's the castle? You can usually see it in the sky...

T-Twilight? It's... i-it's...

It's right above us!

Hahahaha! At last, I found you. That Sapphire character is such a squeal under... the proper circumstances.

Hey! We have the Elements of Harmony, and we're going to defeat you!

Oh, but it's not so easy, I think you'll find. After all, who has a giant fortress floating above whom? Fire!

AH!

Ha Ha! Baboom!

Nyah!

Wha-?

James! It's James!

Heh, hey guys.

James?

Oh, James, it's so good to see you!

He's standing on a magic ball?

How did you protect against my fire blast? Your magic was never that strong!

I didn't vanish, I was picked up. By somepony special, actually. Somepony who saw the true magical potential I had. And he found a way to awaken it in me, so I could return and defeat you!

Fire! Fire at will!

He's dodging them all!

But he's not flying, he's jumping from magic sphere to magic sphere.

I've gotta get in there!

Ha!

Look! He grabbed that fire blast and threw it back at the shield. The castle's open!

Okay... new tactic...

Hm. Coming to face me yourself?

Just getting close enough to do THIS!

Post #4

Ugh... wha-what happened? Did he get us? Am I in... limbo?

Why does limbo smell like old cheese?

Twilight! Are you okay?

I'm fine. Where are we?

I think we're inside the castle.

Welcome, my friends! We've neared the end of our little game, now. The last sprint! The finale! It's beautiful, isn't it? But here the game changes its strategy. The goal is still to reach the top of the castle... but you'll have to do it from the inside. Each one of you has a different path, but they all lead to me in my chambers.

You want us to climb a smelly tower just so we can see you? Not very motivating if you ask me...

James, you will accompany each pony as they climb. You can post all you like, but as of now, your power to read the comments is stripped from you. This will be a challenge for you and you alone. When the door opens, you may move on. I'll be waiting. May the best pony win.

On second thought, I'll post. You've been doing it for so long, I think it's somepony else's turn.

Twilight's 1st Trial (2 posts)

The two unicorns sat in the middle of the dimly lit room. It hadn't been too long since they had seen one another, but it felt like ages. At first, they tried to resist embracing each other to avoid awkwardness, but it seemed impossible. After a slight pause, they gave in at the same time and wrapped their arms around one another.

"Where were you? I had no idea what had happened to you," Twilight asked.

"I didn't mean to leave. I mean... at first I did, but then I just collapsed, and... I heard everyone yelling at me to stay awake. I tried to keep my eyes open, but it felt so good and so easy to just give in. So I did. But then I dreamed of all of you, and I realized exactly what we were fighting for. And what we needed to KEEP fighting for. I couldn't leave Sarah all alone, or force my friends to fight alone. So I hung onto those thoughts until I awoke."

Twilight just kept listening without saying a word, so the small pony continued, "I woke up in a strange home. It was comfortable, but small. I could tell I was underground, so I looked around. That's when I met an old pony who somehow knew my name."

"Everypony in Equestria knows your name," Twilight added. "The unicorn who traveled from another world to save us."

"Heh, well, he said he didn't have much time left. He was very old and obviously wouldn't be around much longer. So he insisted that he teach me everything he knew, which was mostly magic. Turns out, he had trained under Stormcloud himself before he realized the evil intentions he had. He tried to warn about the road the dark horse was traveling, but to no avail. With no other choice, he met his master in combat... and lost.

Stormcloud let him live--he was much more sane then--and offered him the chance to come back and join him whenever he wanted. So the pony left and built a shelter under the ground where he practiced day and night to strengthen himself. He swore to one day go back and defeat Stormcloud, but he soon realized that he had waited too long. He was too old to fight. When he heard that we were battling Stormcloud, he knew that this was his chance to pass on his knowledge to one of us. Whether by chance or some destiny, he found me. He nursed me back to health, cured my sleeping problem temporarily, and taught me powerful spells."

"And you learned all that and became that strong in two days?" Twilight had to ask.

"I didn't really have a choice. I had to get back before you did something stupid."

"Ha ha, very funny. How did he fix your sleep problem?"

"It's only temporary, but he sent the pony of who's body I was sharing to earth. There's a pull trying to bring him back and it will succeed after a while, but for now he's wandering the earth doing who knows what."

"In your body?"

"I'm not sure. I hope not for his sake. My parents would be a little too happy to see me, if you know what I mean."

Twilight nodded, trying to take it all in. "So what's Stormcloud up to? What is this?"

"I have no idea," James replied with a sigh. "But we're ready! This is Twilight Sparkle we're talking about!"

"Well, thanks, but without the others we can't use the elements... we're all alone in this one."

James lifted her chin with a hoof, "You're never alone. You have me. You have your friends cheering for you. And besides, good always triumphs over evil, right?"

You know I'm writing all of this down, right?"

The two ponies jumped to their feet. "Stormcloud?"

Oh, please stop calling me that childish name!

"Well, what's your real name?"

I think you know.

"What's that supposed to mean? Don't you ever just come out with what you want to say?!"

This first challenge I made especially for you, Twilight. I'm sorry, James, you won't be of much help here. You claim intelligence, do you? Well, through that door is a quiz. One suited for a mind like yours. It's been made especially to challenge you.

"So it's a test?" Twilight was somewhat relieved and afraid at the same time.

One question. One answer.

"A test!" James smiled, "You're the best at tests! You know everything about everything," he said with a nudge.

"Thanks. I've been studying for something like this all my life. I know every abstract fact you could throw at me, Stormcloud. I'm ready!"

At that, the door opened and the two ponies approached the stairs it led to. After a quick climb, the tower opened into a big room. At the far end stood a door with words above it,

Two Princesses, white and black, sisters by birth, day and night
One to raise the sun
One to shadow the land
The eldest is Celestia
I'm the younger, tell me who I am.

Post #2

The purple unicorn just stood there and reread the question. "Is this a joke?"

Whatever do you mean?

"It's so obvious! You said this was made especially to challenge me... are you mocking me?"

Of course not! I took into account how smart you are and made a question accordingly.

"I am waaay smarter than this! You could have asked me anything about the history of Equestria and I would have been able to tell you. Ask me to solve any equation, and I'll do it in record time."

Well, I thought about making it difficult, but I decided to give you a fighting chance.

"But... this is an insult to my intelligence!"

"Twilight..." James warned, "This may be what he wants. Just tread carefully."

"I'm not answering this! I demand a harder question. Give me a proper test so I can pass with dignity."

The purple unicorn was obviously upset, but Stormcloud only found this amusing. You must answer the question or you can not pass. Come on now, I'm sure if you think really hard, you might be able to find the answer. I believe in you! he said, mockingly.

"Twilight, calm down. You know he's just trying to make you upset," James tried to be reasonable.

"I know... group conference."

The two unicorns huddled together, "It's Luna, obviously," James began.

"No, it's not," Twilight interrupted him.

"What? Two sisters, the oldest, who's the youngest... it has to be Luna."

"It's a trick question. You don't even need the middle of the riddle to figure it out. It asks who the youngest princess is, not the younger sister."

"So..."

"So it's me."

"Ohhhh... okay. So say it."

"But this proves nothing about my intelligence! He put together a child's riddle to "test" me."

"The point isn't to show off your intelligence, Twilight. We all know how smart you are already."

"Well, thanks, but it would be nice to be remembered for--"

"Twilight, you'll be remembered as the smartest pony that ever walked the face of Equestria, who defeated an evil against all odds, and lead her friends to victory. Isn't that enough to be remembered for?"

Twilight pondered this before realizing how selfish she had been. How could she be looking for recognition when her friends were in danger? Stormcloud was right about the test, but it wasn't the question. It was how she answered it.

With renewed vigor, she turned around and faced the door. "It's me!" she shouted. There was silence for a moment before the giant door lazily swung open to reveal yet another staircase. The two ponies cheered and began to move toward it when James suddenly vanished.

He's gone to help the next pony. You may move on now or wait, it makes no difference to me.

Hmm... I need to step up my game. How about... oh yes! Haha, this should be amusing!

Twilight's 2nd Trial (2 posts)

Twilight paced back and forth in front of the stairs. James had been gone a while.

One brief flash of light later, the two unicorns were together again. James looked... a little beat up. Hehe.

"James! How did it go with the others?"

"Well... Fluttershy had to walk through a room while other ponies hit on her."

"Wow."

"And Rarity had to walk through a room while other ponies stood around and DIDN'T hit on her."

"Oh."

"Then Rainbow Dash had to fly through an obstacle course while Cloudsdale threatened to explode."

"Yikes."

"Pinkie Pie had to watch paint dry..."

"Again?"

"...And Applejack had to make a stallion fall in love with her within a certain time limit."

"How'd that go?"

"She won... sort of..."

Twilight! Are you ready for your second test?

"Here we go. You ready James?"

The tiny colt looked up at her, "We haven't lost a challenge yet. Let's do it!"

As usual, the test is simple. I'm going to present some ponies to you that look just like your friends. All you have to do is distinguish which ones are your real friends, and zap the others!

"What? But what if I--"

Zap your real friends? Yes, that would be a problem, wouldn't it? But we do have to keep things interesting, now don't we?

"It's okay, Twilight, no one knows your friends like you do. You can do this!"

Let the games begin.

Post #2

"No, her mane's too short..." ZZZT!

"Where's her cutie mark?" ZZZT!

"That one's... squawking like a parrot..." ZZZT!

"Rarity... in a cowgirl costume?"

"Wait! What if Stormcloud dressed her up like that so you'd automatically zap her?"

"Hmm..." Twilight walked up to the pony. "Greetings, my name is Twilight Sparkle. What's yours"

"Well, howdy do! Mah name's Rarity. I just spruced myself all purty lahk in time for--"

ZZZT!

"Okay, next."

ZZZT!

ZZZT!

ZZZT!

"Is that... me as a human?"

"Oh wow... yes, I think it is."

"No offense, James, but..."

ZZZT!

"Do you even remember that?" James had to ask.

"Remember what?"

"You kind of took that form once."

"James, I think I'd remember if something like that happened."

"Right... Twilight, you keep chipping away, I'm going to... go... you know."

James walked away to the corner of the room. "Stormcloud, are you here? I want to speak with you."

...

"Stormcloud, would you just listen? I need to talk with you."

...

"Fine. Don't show up, but I'm talking anyway. I just want to know... where am I?"

...

"Look, Twilight doesn't remember anything about turning into human which can only mean one of two things: Either she lost her memory somehow or it didn't happen. I doubt the first, which means if it didn't happen... am I really in Equestria?"

...

"If this is some alternate Equestria you put together to play with me--"

"Of course not, silly colt! This is Equestria, just not the one you know."

"What do you mean?"

"Well... I thought you'd have figured it out by now."

"Ugh! Would you just speak normally?"

"You're aware of the Equestria from that show, but that's not the only dimension out there. There are other timelines, ones where things happened differently."

"...I'm listening..."

"You want to know where you are? You're in Equestria, just not the exact one you think you know. This is a different Equestria, placed separately on the timeline."

"So, in this timeline, Equestria Girls never happened?"

"Many things happened differently." At that moment, Stormcloud appeared and floated to the ground.

"Wait... you're King Sombra?"

"Not quite."

"I'm so confused!"

"I'm from earth. Like you."

"You're... do I know you?"

"No. I traveled to Equestria long before you were born. There was nothing left for me in that world... no friends, no family, no future... when I was called here. It was a chance to get away, and I took it. Upon entering this Equestria, I found my doppelganger to be King Sombra, a powerful and strong pony. With this much power, I could live such a life! Anything I wanted--wealth, command, respect--was mine to take! No more being walked over by the people back home. No more being weak and unaccepted!"

"That's not how to earn respect!"

"Oh, what would you know! You're just a child! I don't even know why I'm talking to you about this."

"Wait, please don't leave! That doesn't explain some things!"

"Since when was it my job to explain things to you? There's just one more room... looks like Twilight's almost finished here."

"Hold on, one more thing... I'm sorry."

"Huh? For what?"

"I don't know... you just seemed like you really needed to hear that. Much more than you needed revenge."

"Pfft! You don't know me. I'm still going to end you."

"You'd do that to your only friend?"

WE ARE NOT FRIENDS!

One more room before you reach the top, Twilight Sparkle. You've done surprisingly well. But through that door is the hardest trial you've ever faced, and as my last line of defense, I'm going to make sure you don't pass!

"Wow, James, I can't believe we made it! All this way, from earth to Equestria, to war, to the top of the tower... it's almost over. We've almost won! Let's go defeat this menace and take back our land!"

"Uh-hu... sure..."

"You okay? Don't worry, Stormcloud will pay for his crimes. With you by my side, we'll beat him and banish him forever!"

"Right... hmm..."

The Final Trial (3 posts)

James and Twilight stood in a large empty room. They had been there for who knows how long with...

..urgh...

...no sign of Stormcloud or any final trial.

"What do you think's going on?" Twilight asked James.

"I don't know. Maybe he's trying to starve us?"

Twilight drew back a little. "Doesn't seem like him. Maybe he's busy with the others?"

"Or maybe he's

hhhh.... hhhh...

gone to earth and is wreaking havoc!"

"Let's hope not..." Twilight sat in thought.

"Oh," James began, "Just thought you'd like to know something."

"What's that?"

"I noticed a little while back," he used his magic to open a view through the nearest wall, "We haven't gotten any higher than when we started."

"Oh no... Is there no way to the top from the inside?"

Suddenly, in burst the rest of the element bearers, each running toward the unicorns.

"Twilight, thank Celestia you're safe! Ah was afraid somethin' awful had happened to ya!" Applejack pulled the unicorn close despite not being one for hugs.

"Oh," Fluttershy was shaking, "It was terrible! There were all these ponies... saying things like, 'I like your mane today!' and 'Can I see your cutie mark?' and all sorts of things!"

"...Those aren't mean things, Fluttershy..."

"But they were stallions who said it! It was terrifying!"

Rarity interrupted, "At least we all made it here in one piece. Did he say this was the last room?"

Oh, yes, this is where it all ends. Stormcloud hovered to the ground and gazed at them all. The foes glared at each other, but James looked sad.

"Are you okay, Stormcloud?"

"Yea!" Twilight joined in, "You look awful! Worried you might not win this battle?"

"Stormcloud, you don't look too good. What's happening?"

Stormcloud looked reluctant to answer. I... I thought I had... found the solution to the degradation...

"Oh, the whole sleep deprivation?"

But I don't think there is a cure. King Sombra is waking up and trying to push me out.

"You're tired and just want this whole thing to end, right?"

Heh... Don't pretend to understand, kid. Before I'm through, I'm winning this! This room is made for battle. Two ponies will fight to the death here. Of everypony here, one of you will not leave. James? Who's your favorite pony? I'm going to need a volunteer.

"What?! No! There is no way I'm letting anypony do that! Why would you possibly think I'd let you get away with this?"

Fluttershy walked up withe her head raised, "I'll do it."

"No, Fluttershy, I'll do it." Twilight stopped her.

"Okay, you do it..." Fluttershy quickly stepped back down relieved.

"Nopony is doing it!" James insisted. "Stormcloud, if you don't have much time left, wouldn't you like to do one good thing before it's over? Don't you want to go knowing you had friends surrounding you?"

Hahaha! You don't know me very well do you? Oh! I just had a wonderful idea! It's so perfect--I know which two ponies are going to fight.

"No. You're better than this, I know you are because I see it in you. We can find a solution together before Sombra sends you back to earth."

But this is just too good! Princess Celestia hasn't gotten a turn playing, so why not now?

Suddenly the princess appeared in the room, confused and looking around. When she spotted the ponies, she smiled. "My little ponies! Is everypony all right?"

Well, not EVERYpony... In another flash of light, Princess Luna was at the other side of the room, colorless and clearly under Stormcloud's influence.

Twilight realized what Stormcloud was planning. One of the princesses wasn't coming back to Equestria with them "NOOO!!" Twilight yelled. The shout echoed and filled the room, accompanied only by the sound of Stormcloud's laughter.

Post #2

Stormcloud had wisely made himself scarce, leaving the ponies alone with a violent princess Luna.

Celestia stood tall with a determined look about her. Even as Luna charged at her, the princess did not move. The ponies watched in horror as Luna ran straight into Celestia, knocking her off her feet. The sun princess slid along the ground before shakily standing to her feet once more. Half-way up, she glanced over to see Princess Luna charging at her again. She could have moved, she had time, but once again she refused to fight and let the dark mare knock her into the nearby wall.

"Princess!" Twilight called out.

Celestia grimaced and looked up at yet another attack coming. Closing her eyes, she braced herself as Luna picked her up and tossed her to the side. She landed with a grunt before shaking her head, her mane flowing everywhere.

"How in the name of strawberry frosting did this happen?!" Pinkie asked, bouncing up and down nervously.

Bahaha! Aren't you even going to fight back? Stormcloud's voice came from Princess Luna's lips and silenced everypony in the room.

Celestia looked up and saw Nightmare Moon--her sister--standing over her, smiling and horn glowing. "No... I won't play this game of yours, Stormcloud. I won't hurt my sister."

Hm. Suit yourself. With that, Luna used her magic to lift Celestia up and threw her as hard as she could into the wall once more. This time, however, just as the sun princess reached it, she flipped and landed hoof-first, her wings spreading and feathers flying around her. Braced against the wall, she pushed off and landed near the other ponies, first shielding them with her wings, then separating her wings to show the ponies gone.

Wha-?! Celestia stood there in all elegance, facing off against her sister. Against Stormcloud. "You won't hurt them. I've teleported them away from here, so you have no leverage. I care not for my own life, so threaten it all you want." The princess had known that Stormcloud would have decided the only way to make her fight was to threaten her friends. The princess just didn't care if he threatened her life; she would gladly give it if it meant her ponies and sister were safe.

Fine. You and me. Just the way I like it. With a shout, Luna leaped forward, flying off the ground and straight for the princess.

The ponies watched from their perch on the ceiling as Luna ran into Celestia again, knocking her hard to the ground.

"But Pr--hmmffff!" Pinkie was silenced by a hoof from Applejack. Stormcloud didn't need to know they were still here.

It took Celestia a bit longer to get up this time. "Sister..." she whispered, nopony hearing her.

Twilight felt helpless. All she could do was watch as Luna hovered in the air, looking down upon the unicorn's mentor. What could she do? How could she stop Nightmare Moon? Last time, she had the elements, but now she couldn't even go down to help!

Once again, Luna raced toward the princess. This time, however, Celestia teleported out of the way, causing Luna to topple and fall over herself. When she had regained her composure, she looked back at Celestia. Somehow Celestia thought she saw Luna grimacing and Stormcloud smiling at the same time. You will learn to fear us! And we will punish you for what you did to us!

"I... I do fear you... I fear what you've become. I'm afraid you might not realize what your doing, that you've turned into something your not."

"We have only revealed to us what was truly in our nature all along! To fight. To have our revenge. You banished us!"

"And I cried every night as I looked up at the moon. I couldn't bare to send you away, but even more I could not bare to let you stay where you were."

"We were the princess of the night!"

"You were a monster of the night. Sister, don't let it take you again! I saw you change. I know you're pure inside."

"LIES! This is what we are inside!" Some nearby rocks obeyed her silent command and flew to her, hovering by her side. With a laugh, Luna launched the projectiles at Celestia who barely jumped out of the way.

James whispered to Twilight, "When Stormcloud clouds someone's mind, he needs something to act as the support stone. He takes something that pony may not have felt for a long time and bases their angry attitude off of that. Luna forgave her sister, but Stormcloud has resurrected those old feelings!"

"We HAVE to do something, James! I won't stand here and watch this happen!"

James silently agreed, but could do nothing but turn his attention back to the fight.

Post #3

Celestia fell to the ground again, this time too weak to get up. Luna had thrown everything she had at her, and Celestia had taken it all. She refused to fight. And if one of them wasn't going to leave... it was going to be her. They had Twilight to lead them now, and she wouldn't let harm befall them. Not as long as she could do something about it.

No. James WASN'T going to let her go through with this.

Now you are sorry! Now you wish you had never cast us out! But then you laughed at our misfortune! You never thought twice before dooming us! You were glad we were gone.

You... you never loved us. You were ashamed of us. And when you sent us away... you were glad we were gone. You were glad we were gone.

Celestia let the tears fall. The honorable, strong princess was now a heap on the floor, crying part from pain and part from how wrong her sister was. "I..." She looked at her sister, her eyes showing pain not for herself but for the one she loved more than anything else in the world. "I never... was glad you were gone... not a day went by..." she was having trouble talking without crying, "... that I didn't think of you. I loved you then as I love you now."

When the sisters had reunited all those years ago, Celestia had stayed strong, holding in the feelings. She had shed a few tears, but now it was all coming out. All the sadness she had felt when her sister was gone, she felt she was experiencing it all over again. "It was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. I had to protect my subjects... such is the way of the crown that we wear, sister. It's weight is unbearable for a single pony. That is why I needed you. I still need you."

She was glad you were gone! Luna shouted at herself. For a brief instant, Luna's eyes flashed to her own, but it was short-lived before she was snarling again. Of course you're sorry now! I have won! You were glad we were gone!

That was it. That's the support stone. You were glad we were gone. That's the cloud's basis!

James dropped himself down, landing more loudly than he meant to. Luna looked at him. Oh, you are back. I suppose you are here to beg that we not kill your princess?

"Actually, no I'm not."

What?!

"By all means, kill her."

Uh... I-I will.

James didn't say a thing.

You think we won't?

"Be my guest."

"Has he got James too?" Rarity whispered to the others.

"Just wait, I'm sure he has a plan," Twilight said as she bit her lip.

O-okay... Luna looked down at Celestia and her horn glowed a powerful black.

"But before you do," James said as he walked closer to the two. "There's something I want you to see."

Lullaby for a Princess

A simple memory spell. It was too risky to hope the curing spell would work, but that's not what Luna needed, anyway.

As James' horn caught the princess off guard, images, flashbacks filled her mind. She saw herself with Celestia, laughing, ruling together. She saw their reunion when she ran back into her sister's arms.

She saw them happy together.

You think she was happy to see you gone? James remembered a song he had heard back home that had touched him the first time he heard it. It wasn't canon of course, but now, he thought, Luna needed to hear that song. She sang this song when she was alone... and cried herself to sleep...

Fate has been cruel and order unkind
How can I have sent you away?
The blame was my own; the punishment, yours
The harmony's silent today

But into the stillness I'll bring you a song
And I will your company keep
Till your tired eyes and my lullabies
Have carried you softly to sleep

Once did a pony who shone like the sun
Look out on her kingdom and sigh
She smiled and said, "Surely, there is no pony
So lovely and so well beloved as I"

So great was her reign and so brilliant her glory
That long was the shadow she cast
Which fell dark upon the young sister she loved
And grew only darker as days and nights passed

Lullay moon princess, goodnight sister mine
And rest now in moonlight's embrace
Bear up my lullaby, winds of the earth
Through cloud, and through sky, and through space

Carry the peace and the coolness of night
And carry my sorrow in kind
Luna, you're loved so much more than you know
Forgive me for being so blind

Soon did that pony take notice that others
Did not give her sister her due
And neither had she loved her as she deserved
She watched as her sister's unhappiness grew

But such is the way of the limelight, it sweetly
Takes hold of the mind of its host
And that foolish pony did nothing to stop
The destruction of one who had needed her most

Lullay moon princess, goodnight sister mine
And rest now in moonlight's embrace
Bear up my lullaby, winds of the earth
Through cloud, and through sky, and through space

Carry the peace and the coolness of night
And carry my sorrow in kind
Luna, you're loved so much more than you know
May troubles be far from your mind
And forgive me for being so blind

The years now before us
Fearful and unknown
I never imagined
I'd face them on my own

May these thousand winters
Swiftly pass, I pray
I love you; I miss you
All these miles away

May all your dreams be sweet tonight
Safe upon your bed of moonlight
And know not of sadness, pain, or care
And when I dream, I'll fly away and meet you there
Sleep...

Day 16 Belongs to the Rebels (3 posts)

The combination of the song and the mental images of the two sisters together was enough to make the dark mare pause. All throughout the song, you could see her battling with Stormcloud. As he felt his support crumble, Stromcloud knew he couldn't hold on, and his influence over her was shattered, causing Luna to revert to her normal form.

A few seconds later, Stormcloud was lying on the floor, worn and cursing his own weakness. His magic had failed him! That's it... I'm done... His body now felt completely without rest, and King Sombra was on the verge of pushing him out. And he knew this was the end.

Stormcloud looked over at the two princesses. There was a lot of tears, a lot of forgiving. It's like they were mocking him! Mocking him for being alone... I want that...

"You want what?" Twilight was suddenly behind him.

Ah! Oh, Twilight... if you're here to finish me... please do it. I'm ready.

Twilight did nothing. "What do you want?"

Stormcloud closed his eyes. Hnng... she tried to kill her! But she forgave her... how can that be?

Twilight was sad that such a thing was so unbelievable to him. "That's what friends do--they forgive. Just like... *sigh* just like I forgive you... Stormcloud."

Oh, don't be ridiculous! What I did was unforgivable!

"Oh, I saw what you did. I saw you purposefully make it so nopony could die. I saw you never slaughter us in our base, even when you had us captive. I saw the good in you, and I know it's still there."

Stormcloud looked back at the two sisters. Well... it's too late for me, now.

"No, it's not." Twilight glanced over at James questioningly. When he nodded his head, Twilight looked back over at Stormcloud and said, "We're all ready to forgive you if you're ready to forgive yourself."

That's not what I meant.

James joined the two. "You mean Sombra pushing you out of his body? Don't worry--when you go back to yourself on earth, I'll find you. And we can be friends. That's what you wanted right?"

No, James, you don't get it! My old self is dead. I've been here for so many years, if I went back now I'd be dust. Don't think that time isn't moving there while you're here. I'm old... and once King Sombra pushes me out... that's the end for me.

"...Then wouldn't you like to do one good thing before you go?" James asked. "A chance to do something good by changing all the ponies back to normal."

Heh heh, that's right--I promised I'd change them all back if you won. Well, I'm a pony of my word. Stormcloud's horn flashed then glowed. In another flash, ponies all over Equestria returned to normal. They started smiling, laughing, and running to their loved ones. But in the tower, Stormcloud's strength was failing.

"Thank you, Stormcloud. You're a good friend."

You know what? That actually felt good... my student was right... I wish I could have made it all up to you... ugh! But, I'm out of time.

"But you did! If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be here. I never would have met these ponies, and I'd still feel all alone in the world. So... thank you."

Wow... I never thought when it all ended you'd be thanking me. Stormcloud smiled and laid his head on the floor.

And he fell asleep.

James and Twilight stayed for a few more seconds, but then they ran over to Celestia and hugged her. The other ponies joined them, talking about everything that had happened. They laughed at some parts and skipped over other parts entirely. Rainbow Dash wanted to know how "Daddy" was doing, but before she could find out, there was another laugh filling the room.

Hahahaha! It feels SO good to be back!

"Darn... King Sombra..."

Post #2

"Now wait," Celestia said to the other ponies, "We don't know if he's actually evil."

"Uh," James assured her, "Trust me--he's evil. He enslaved the entire Crystal Empire!"

"What?"

"Oh... nothing. He's evil. Hey, King Sombra! Long time no see! Last time I heard of you, you were defeated so quickly that... ahem, I was planning on making a joke here, but your face was enough of one."

King Sombra growled.

"Still a pony of few words, I see." James stood next to the princess, looking especially small next to her. "Princess Celestia, just in case you were thinking of banishment, may I suggest something a bit more drastic?"

The two sisters looked at him, surprised.

"Cause he'll come back... y-you'll just have to... trust me again..."

Celestia was still weak from her last battle, but she stood as if an army couldn't stand against her. "Stormcloud!"

No! You stand against King Sombra! A forcefield appeared, separating the two princesses from the rest of the ponies. Bow to your new king!

Luna smirked. She looked at her big sister. "Together?"

"Together." The princesses both looked at King Sombra then leaned low to the ground. In unison, they took off and flew straight for the evil stallion. Sombra reared back and attempted to slash at the smaller sister, but Luna rolled out of the way with plenty of space to spare. With Sombra recovering from his failed attack, Celestia created a shield in front of her and ran straight into him, launching him back towards the wall.

The self-proclaimed King wasn't without his own tricks, though. Before he hit the wall, he transformed into a dark mist, turning around and flying back at his foes.

Meanwhile, James trotted away, calling, "I'll be right back. Tell me what I missed!"

Back in the fight, Stormcloud solidified again above them, baring his teeth and falling for their throats. Once again, though, Celestia jumped aside without a scratch on her, only to let Luna have the honors of kicking the pony in the chin. As Sombra staggered backwards, Celestia flew up and shot a blast of magic at him. It engulfed him, lifting him off the ground.

"Alright, I'm back!" James trotted back in carrying the Elements of Harmony. "Here you go. You can finally use these!"

"I don't think that will be necessary, James," Twilight said, motioning toward the evil pony suspended in the air.

"Aw man! I really wanted to see you use them up close... curse you Sombra for being beaten so easily!"

Luna shot her own magic at him, the two sister's combining their powers. There was a huge flash of light...

...and everything was gone.

The castle was gone. Equestria was gone. The ponies were gone. James stood in a pure white area.

"W-what?" James looked around. What was he standing on? He seemed to be just floating there... he was still a pony, so he must be in Equestria, right? Where am I?

In the distance, Princess Celestia could be seen walking towards him. "Hello, James. We won."

Post #3

"We won? It's all over?" James covered the distance between them. Suddenly ashamed of the fact that he hardly ever bowed to her majesty, he bent down low before her elegance.

"Arise. I think you know why I am here."

"You... it's time to go back, isn't it?" Celestia nodded her head. The tiny pony sighed... "Wow, it all ended so fast! One second we were climbing the tower, then the next..." James looked up at the beauty standing before him. He was glad it was over, but despite knowing he was going back soon, he hadn't been ready.

"I fear a simple thank you is not enough for all you have done for us. What do you wish? To stay here in Equestria?"

"...no... I can't do that to my family. And somehow, deep down, I know I don't belong here."

"I'm sorry you only got to see Equestria in its fallen state. But thanks to you, Equestria will be beautiful and peaceful once again."

"Good. That's all I want."

Celestia smiled. "I'm sure that's not the only thing you wish. Please tell me what I can do for you."

"Well... there are a couple of things..."

"Then name it and, if it is within my power, I shall do my best to see it through."

"For starters, please don't let me forget. And the ponies-- whenever something like this ends with everyone losing their memory that it ever happened... just please let the ponies remember me. I didn't even get to say goodbye."

"James--"

"Promise."

"...Very well. I will trust your judgement."

Wow! For the princess to say that... that's a really big honor.

"Anything else?"

"Take care of Fluttershy." I know you guys are probably shouting things at the screen for me to ask for, but in front of Celestia, it's different.

"Of course."

"And tell Spike he's awesome."

"Haha! I will. Surely there is something more? It was not just you who saved us, after all. Do you have anything to say in their place?"

"...I knew you were going to bring that up."

"You don't want them to come here?"

"Well... I say it's up to you. It's your land, and you are far wiser than I. I think they'll respect your decision no matter what it is. So do what you think is best."

"You are a very wise pony, James."

"Well... so, the others? They REALLY want to come here."

"I will call for them. But only when the time is right."

"So you will?"

"The time is coming when Equestria will need them. When that time comes, I will call for them."

James nodded. Fair enough. If Celestia is okay with it, how bad could it be, right?

"If I could have one more request?"

"What is it?"

"There are a few people who might be better off not remembering any of this. My parents? Just for their ease of mind. And... my ease of their wrath... and the police, too, I guess you'd have to."

"I will make all those who know you suspect nothing." Celestia agreed. "Now you must go."

"...Okay... gosh, I'm going to miss you."

"We will never forget you or what you have done." The room started getting brighter. "One more thing, James: There is someone else near your house. He will be your friend. Just talk about me."

"He's a brony? What's his name?"

"You can ask him that yourself. He will believe your story if you so choose to tell him."

Then...

...well, then I was back. I was at my house. I looked down at myself. Human. James. My old life.

After a moment, I walked into my house. My mom greeted me with a smile, cleaning up after dinner. She asked if Sarah and I had a good time. I looked and saw Sarah walk up to me with a knowing look. It was obvious she remembered.

A few minutes later, I was opened my laptop and went to my story. Yep. It was there. But what caught my eye was the image I had stolen for it...

I've said it before, but Fluttershy will always have a special place in my heart because she came to me first. When I felt alone, she was the pony who gave me hope. I whispered goodbye to the image and closed the laptop.

This time life was going to be different. I would have friends because of the boy I would find, and I would see the ponies every time they came on TV. My sister and I were closer than ever, and I finally felt a kind of happiness amongst the pain of loss. I guess this is where my life goes back to normal... but I'll never be the same.

I used to wonder what friendship could be

until Fluttershy came and shared its magic with me.

Aftermath

I know the comments will be flooding in, so this way they won't get mixed in with the other ones.

Not Over Yet?

Guys, the moon! Look at the moon!

So What If?

After all of that, things have been quiet, and I really want something else to write. So that night when we all saw the moon change, it occurred to me, what if that was the changelings coming to earth? When I saw no evidence of that being true, I thought, "But what if they did come one day? After all, Rarity promised they would get to." So here's what I'm going to do--I'm going to write a story pretending that the changelings did come. For several reasons:

1)They might read it if they ever do come and see we have their best interests in mind

2) It'll keep us together and help us work as a team

3) There are new readers who didn't get to help the first go through

4) It just seems like it would be fun to write!

Although seeing as how the new story will be made up, it may have inconsistencies. It was easy writing this one because I just had to say what was happening! And if anybody sees ANYTHING that may suggest anything, I'll post it on this story. Until then, I'll see you in the new story! (once I get it up)

The End

Night Heart, you're not going to like what I'm about to write.

I was surprised (only a little) to see that you had kept up messaging me regularly, trying to keep in touch. Wanting to make sure I was okay. You've stuck by my side for so long and been a true friend. When what I said made no sense, you believed me anyway. When I disappeared without explaining a thing, you trusted me. When I was in dangerous situations, you rooted for me. I know you've never left my side. It's funny, this loyalty, makes me wonder if your pony-self might be Rainbow Dash herself.

Which is why it pains me so much... to say what I am about to say.

I... I'm not going to be writing anymore. Something has happened... something that can be only be fixed one way. You know how in some stories, the ending takes a surprising twist? Well, mine has. In the end, sometimes a hero has to do what nopony else can... and give everything he has. I've read stories where the hero sacrifices himself in the end, and I've always tried thinking of ways that he could have saved everyone and lived. But in the end, I've always known there was no other way. And now it's happening to me. I've fought to protect my friends, and now I'll die to protect my friends.

But, James, you might say, surely there is some other way! There's always a way! Not this time... thank you all for being there for me, and helping reach the end of my story. But now that I'm here, my story will end on a happy note. For as the hero falls, a new day rises.

And yes, I am in fact avoiding just coming out and saying anything. That is because you can not know what is happening for it to happen. So as much as I want to tell you what is going on, I can not. I know you'll be mad for a while, but... maybe one day you'll come to understand. Until that day, know that Equestria is safe. Everypony is safe.

So I'm going back to Equestria one final time... and I won't be coming back. I regret never meeting any of you, or getting to talk about season 4 when it comes out. I regret never getting to go with you to Equestria and showing you around. Or introducing you to the ponies and telling them what a help you've all been. Because you've been more than a help, you've been a family. My wish came true not because I met the ponies but because I met all of you. So thank you for everything.

I haven't told Sarah, but I will. I'll wait until it's too late for her to stop me, then change my password on this site so she can't get on. I want her to believe I'm going to Equestria and I'm happy. I want her to believe I'm safe.

So this is it, my final post. Night Heart, please let me go. I know for a fact you'll think I'm a fool in the beginning, but one day it'll all make sense. And I want you to know I'm okay with this. Knowing the results is enough to keep me smiling for all of eternity, so you should too. I didn't write this so you can cry over me forever, but so you can be happy I made a difference. We all made a difference. The world may never find out, but that doesn't mean we're not heroes.

I solute all of you for your courage, loyalty, kindness, and understanding. This is my choice. It's something I have to do.

MMMBrony, you have a bright future. Stay courageous.
Evedawalrus, keep smiling. Your kindness will take you far.
Stagequill, you've been here from the beginning, and I thank you for all you've done.
Swiftbullet, your selflessness makes you shine among men. Thank you for everything you've done.
Night Heart, I've never met anyone else like you. A true friend is a great find indeed, so thank you for being that. Anyone who meets you is lucky to have met such a wonderful person. I know you'll figure everything out--you have a gift for that. Please don't think you in any way failed to protect me. You SAVED me so I could do this.

The sun goes down on Midnight Spawn, and my final act is for my friends. Goodbye, and I love you all.