As the days remaining to the announced meeting passed, Twilight drew a nigh infallible plan how to make sure she wouldn’t be disturbed from the session by the outside world. The painful experience of her first visit of Elysium and being roughly woken up by Pinkie Pie was still fresh in her memory. Equestria can burn to ground, but I refuse to go through that pain again, she repeated to herself.

The only unsolved question remained: how to ensure Spike wouldn’t interfere with her plans. During the day she could easily send him on various errands or even permit him to slave for Rarity in his foolish hope she would reciprocate his feelings. Nights, however, where a completely different matter. What reason would anypony have to let him stay overnight? The least of all Rarity.

For once, the solution came from the least expected side. Shortly after the Friday noon, a note came from Princess Celestia, assigning Twilight to do some extensive studying in span of the weekend. How generous from the Princess to swamp me with twelve books and rob me of the weekend. As if it wasn’t enough that she dragged me to that symposium, now I have to read about the subject some more, Twilight thought at first.

To make things worse for her Spike kept on reminding her how much work she was supposed to manage in such a short time, so in a moment of annoyance she sent him away for the day. She regretted it rather soon as there was no one to perform the support tasks for her studying. Spike also had much better idea of what was where in the library and the reference books would come in handy to Twilight.

When Spike returned not two hours later, Twilight couldn’t believe her eyes and luck. She refused to show her true emotions to him and break the word she gave him about his day off though, pretending she was deep in the reading process. As was the too common case with her, pretending reading turned against her will into actual reading in matter of seconds.

“Twilight, Applejack just saved my life from horrible, dragon-eating timberwolves!”

“Mm-hmm...”

“And, as you are aware, I adhere to my dragon code, and this means I must serve her for the rest of my natural born days! I'm sure you understand.”

“Mm-hmm…”

“It's... been an honor... being your faithful assistant.”

“Sounds good.”

Spike sighed as he walked off. Few seconds after the door of the library slammed shut, Twilight shot up to full attention. “Serve Applejack for the rest of his natural born days? No way! I won’t let my dear Spike do such thing in a million years!”

She briskly trotted to the door to solve the problem outright, but stopped with a hoof on the doorknob. “Wait a second. That means he will be out for the night and nothing can probably stop him without great deal of trouble.” She eased her hoof back to the ground and returned to her reading spot. “I won’t let him ruin his life like this, but my actions can wait till tomorrow. There is something good in everything bad.”

The evening soon came and Twilight struggled to prepare some sort of dinner for herself. She eventually settled on a bowl of cereal and milk since she didn’t dare to get close to cooking, not after the scolding Spike gave her the last time she tried. “AJ couldn’t have saved his life after the dinner just as well,” she grumbled. “I should also take care of those Timberwolves. Trixie probably wasn’t exaggerating with her worries. They are getting out of hoof.”

With her hunger feebly sated she went on with the main part of her plan. The long experience of living in the town taught her just where every access place of the library was; Rainbow Dash’s and Pinkie’s unexpected visits proved useful in that manner. She cautiously locked the door and closed all windows as well as the blinds on the upper floor. Such petite thing as glass wouldn’t stop Rainbow from bursting through.

She warmed some milk for herself just to aid her sleep and cast a powerful soundproofing spell on her room, locking the door right afterwards too. Feeling well protected from any possible intrusion she snuggled deep into her blankets and patiently waited for sleep to claim her. It didn’t take long at all.

Twilight opened her eyes to the view of a dark island with a beach side. The sky was dark and starry and the island itself had a small hill with sand surrounding it and a tree at the summit. The tree had a remarkable resemblance to the tree Zecora’s hut was built in.

“Twilight!”

She turned towards the source of the voice to see Trixie who was approaching her.

“Hey Trixie! How are you today? Or tonight? I don’t know how day works here.”

“Well, before you came, it was too dark to see. Those stars didn’t spark up until you showed up.”

Another familiar voice spoke up. “And before you showed up, this island wasn’t an island. There was no water.”

Both mares turned to see Canvas, now clad with glasses. “Hi girls,” she said in her timid manner.

“Canvas? You’re here too? I like the glasses by the way,” Twilight said and smiled.

The earth mare blushed as Trixie did a double take, not being familiar with this new face. “Uh Twilight? Who is this?”

“Acrylic Canvas. Remember when I said I was looking for other ponies to help our cause? She’s one of them. I met her in Canterlot during the second symposium and everything just kinda fell into place.”

Trixie approached Canvas cautiously and after a moment of hesitance, held her hoof out. “I’m Trixie Lulamoon, former showmare now turned magic apprentice. What about you? What do you do?”

Canvas slowly returned the gesture and the two shook their hooves. “Um, well, I’m an art student. Twilight helped me get into the school I’m currently studying at. It’s a lot better than my old school. Less competitive and has a much better environment.”

The two mares bantered a bit before a flash of light flared behind the tree for a split second. All eyes were on the source of the light as Scintillant walked out. While Twilight and Trixie have met her before, Canvas was mesmerized with the sight of such an ethereal being.

“Good evening girls. I see you are all well and good.” the angelic pony said.

“Good evening, Scintillant. It has been some time. Why did you call us all here tonight?” Twilight responded.

“This is Scintillant? She looks… amazing.”

“Oh yeah, you’ve never actually met her, have you Canvas? Well she is the angel that came to me in the first place. I reacted the same way at first and rightly so.”

“Now then,” the angel interrupted. “I have called you forth for a number of reasons. First off Twilight, I noticed your search made a progress, though the results were unclear. Did you reach your decision in the matter of that mare?”

“How did you- I guess that isn’t important. I think I have found a potential bearer for Temperance. She’s a pegasus, a cadet of the Wonderbolt academy to be specific. Her name is Lightning Dust, but you obviously already know that,” Twilight said with a bit of distaste on being watched all the time.

“Have you talked to her about this?” Scintillant either didn’t notice Twilight’s feelings, which was highly improbable, or didn’t care too much.

“Not yet. At first, choosing her didn’t even cross my mind, but she spent some time trying to better herself and I came to the decision after I got a letter from Rainbow Dash, her partner and my, uh, friend. Is it possible to bring her here tonight?”

Scintillant stood triumphantly as her halos started to rotate and burst with light. The light that radiated collected in front of them and formed the shape of a pony and once the light dispersed, Lightning Dust was present. She painstakingly opened her eyes and stretched before realizing she wasn’t in her room.

“Wha? Who… What the? Okay what’s going on? Is this a dream?” the pegasus darted her eyes around trying to comprehend what she was seeing.

“In a matter of speaking, Lightning Dust.” Twilight stepped forward.

“How… do you know my name?” Dust asked defensively.

“I heard about you from Rainbow Dash. She sent me a letter detailing your improvement and I want to help you get your family back.”

Her eyes widened in realization. “Then… You must be Twilight Sparkle. Now that I think about it, I remember seeing you back at the academy, when that tornado went out of control. Um, sorry about that by the way.”

“It’s okay, it’s in the past now.”

“So where am I exactly? And why does my head hurt?” the pegasus said rubbing her temples, the migraine just now taking effect.

“You are in Elysium,” Scintillant declared, causing the young cadet to jump in surprise. “Whether you know this or not, you have potential to help us change Equestria. I have brought you here on Twilight Sparkle’s request so as to discuss your dilemma. As for the migraine, that’s a common side effect of entering and leaving Elysium. It will lessen with repeated visits.”

Lightning Dust didn’t miss a beat with her reply. “If it will help me win my family back, I am yours.”

At this time, rotations in six points of the surrounding waters started to form six thin waterspouts that reached up into the sky and seemed to stretch forever into the starry abyss. The waterspouts continued to circle the island in a counterclockwise fashion as the mortal ponies looked on.

“W-what’s going on?” Canvas asked nervously.

“Do not be alarmed, young ones. Our world reacts to various emotion and power. Now while you all are here, I feel it is necessary to further explain the situation. As some of you know, Twilight Sparkle has been helping me find various ponies, bearers of our Elements. I have gathered you all here tonight to explain your purpose, as well as to discuss our plan. We currently have four bearers present: Twilight Sparkle, Trixie Lulamoon, Acrylic Canvas, and Lightning Dust.”

As she pronounced each name, the pillars from Twilight’s first visit to Elysium began to rise up from the ground in front of their respective bearers. The two remaining pillars were petrified and stone cold as there was not a bearer for their Element yet.

“Each of you has been sought out and chosen to take possession of these Elements, physical embodiments of the virtues that our society holds dear. Each of you also represents those said virtues as each of you has gone through struggles to learn them. Trixie Lulamoon, you have learned to use your talent not strongly, but wisely. You had possession of the Alicorn Amulet, but you still were defeated not by strength, but strategy. And from then on, you dedicated yourself to such wisdom. For this you have learned Prudence, a virtue that in many ways is akin to water.”

Trixie’s sapphire pillar became frozen in ice as she touched it.

“Acrylic Canvas, you’ve committed a vice to combat vice. In this you learnt that what is seen as right or wrong largely depends on perception. And sometimes, that perception is corrupted. Your act may not have been right, but neither was the act that forced you to commit it. For this you have learned Justice, a virtue that, much like this tree, depends on its roots to support it.”

Canvas’ emerald pillar sprouted vines that slightly covered her hoof when she touched it.

“Lightning Dust, you let yourself become lost in your goal to become the best that you can. You blinded yourself to the consequences of your actions and in the end, you suffered for it. And yet, this is what you needed for you forced yourself to become more patient. You helped others over yourself in genuine remorse. In this you learned that in order to give it your all, you sometimes need to hold back. That you need to fall several times before you rise. For this you have learned Temperance, a virtue that flows as the wind does.”

Lightning’s topaz pillar was encased in small vortex winds as she touched it.

“And Twilight Sparkle, your sense of dedication to your mentor caused you to blindly follow her. Before, you were more worried about a selfish desire than anything else, even if you didn’t realize it. During the wedding of your brother, you had to be hurt before you opened your eyes. While you do not like the events it brought, this is exactly what you needed: a wake up call to the harsh reality of your friends and mentor. Not long after, your mentor gave you a test and though you still questioned her, you treated it as such. You later learned how deceptive she really was and chose to act on behalf of the citizens of the Empire, rather than yourself. For this, you have learned Humility, a virtue that shows others the light.”

Twilight’s diamond pillar shined with a white light as she touched it.

“Now as for the remaining two Elements, Diligence and Fortitude, I have two bearers in mind. For Diligence, I have a-” Scintillant began to speak, but was rudely interrupted by Twilight who spotted a pony shape flying in her direction, one that she recognized all too well.

“Oh my goodness! Is that-? It can’t be! Everypony watch out!” she exclaimed and curled up on the ground with her forehooves over her head.

The other mares watched the spectacle in disbelief as the pony gracefully landed outside the range of the light. Twilight waited for an inevitable impact and jerked a little as Scintillant placed her hoof on Twilight’s shoulder.

“Such prejudice, Twilight Sparkle. I would have expected better from you, especially with your recent experience.”

“Sorry.” Twilight smiled sheepishly before clearing her throat in embarrassment.

Scintillant glanced over to the pony and gestured her to walk over. “Now our new guest deserves better treatment, not just as a pony, but as a future bearer of Diligence as well. Come on out dear. Everypony, please welcome Ditzy Doo.” Ditzy walked out of the shadow so the others could clearly see her face and happily waved.

“Personally, I’m a bit shocked, Ditzy,” Twilight began, “but now that I think about it, it makes sense for you to be the bearer of Diligence. I always see you work hard and well, even during the harshest weather conditions.”

“Well, I haven’t always been a hard worker. It’s just that I learned a long time ago that a little diligence goes a long way.”

Scintillant displayed her wings proudly to get everypony’s attention. “Now as for Fortitude, I regret to say that this bearer will not be showing up for a few more months. However, once you see her, you will know. But before I let you all go…”

Around the tree a ring of fire started to make its way up to the branches and the waterspouts met the same fate. The six vortexes exploded and sent chunks of molten debris across the island like fireworks. The tree began to fall apart as its branches became rotten and weak before the whole tree gave way. Soon, the surrounding beach side began to burn, even the sand which wasn’t supposed to be flammable at all.

“Remember that Fortitude can turn into wrath and back just like that.”

Trixie didn’t dream for much longer after leaving Elysium. The long weeks of living with Zecora taught her to get up early and a meeting in other realm could change nothing on that. As she stretched and prepared for the day, paying little mind to the light headache from the trip, she pondered about what transpired.

Twilight looked even better than a week ago. Maybe she finally got some rest during those days. She sure needs it after what she went through.

Having planned another lesson with Zecora for today, she didn’t waste time and made her way to the zebra’s hut, expecting her to be up already. However, Zecora apparently chose that day to sleep in. Trixie giggled at the sight of her snuggled in the cot, tongue lolling from the corner of her mouth slightly, but didn’t take any action to wake her. She set two bowls on the table and went to cook porridge for breakfast, not having eaten yet either. The smell soon rose Zecora from her sleep.

“Birds in forest still don’t scream, you are up, did you have bad dream?” she asked as she took the place at the table. Having somepony to prepare meal especially after the last week of doing that alone again was a welcomed change for the hermit zebra.

“I wouldn’t say bad, just really strange,” Trixie answered as she served the porridge and started eating. At least those in the dream were strange. Twilight has some weird taste in choosing friends. On the other hand, I shouldn’t exactly complain about that. It is to be expected anyway, with how Scintillant acts. Her parting fireshow kinda scared me.

“Once we eat there’s lots to do, I know plants useful for you,” Zecora said suddenly, waking Trixie from her musing.

Well, time to learn something new. Everything can come in handy some day, Trixie happily thought and went to clean up the dishes before they set into the forest.

As much as she loved her new school, some rules just didn’t make sense to Canvas. Getting up at the break of dawn sure counted to them. As the wake up ring resounded through the dorms she desperately tried to overhear it and drift back to sleep, a task that proved to be impossible because of a raging migraine that assaulted her.

Any other pony would opt to call in sick, but such laziness wouldn’t even cross Canvas’ mind as she was taking her new chance very seriously. Forcing herself to eat her breakfast turned out to be the right choice as the pain slightly subsided, to the level that she could concentrate on her work even.

“Since we managed to finish the last assignment in shorter time than expected, today you are allowed to create at your own discretion. No rules, no limitations, no grades. Just let your fantasy fly,” the teacher announced at the beginning of the lesson.

Ever since she could think clearly thanks to the headache weakening, Canvas’ thought revolved around her recent experience. I would expect Elysium to be a brighter place. There was just one angel and she looked so sad… But who am I to judge? Maybe there was some purpose behind it looking like it did. And any place where my friends are is beautiful. My friends…

A single tear rolled down her face as she repeated it in her head and a fond smile spread on her face. I want to remember that meeting forever. I want more than a memory of it too! With her mind set she grabbed the paints and palette and prepared to fulfill her wish.

Jeez did I drink so much that I forgot about it completely? Lightning Dust pondered as she powered through the morning part of the academy training. The splitting headache that took place of hopeful and sweet dreams of that night was making it difficult for her, but a soldier had to be ready to serve at any circumstances as her father used to tell her.

Why did I dream something so strange anyway? Am I that fixated on that mare’s help that I create fantasies about it? Anger, no matter its cause, could be a very good drive for the endurance training, yet as Lightning knew it was disastrous if accuracy was required. The world reminded her of that as she took a turn at a slightly wrong angle and clipped her wing against one of the obstacles. She plummeted down unable to control her descend, but the unplanned rendezvous with hard ground never happened.

“What the hay, Lightning? I almost didn’t catch you! If I were a bit further, you would be little more than a pile of broken bones!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she cradled her obviously shaken friend in her hooves and carried her toward the seat of their trainer.

“T-thank you, Rainbow. I guess I can’t really fly today. I feel rather sick… and distracted… and this is the result,” Lightning said and held Rainbow tightly, partly to prevent herself from falling, partly for the support in her shock.

“I can see that. Sir? Lightning Dust needs to get to the infirmary. I will take her there and be right back,” Rainbow said to the trainer and without waiting for an answer continued toward the building with a red cross on the door.

Soon Lightning Dust was alone in the infirmary room, her wing properly bandaged. Thankfully it was just slightly bruised, so she would be able to continue training tomorrow, but the nurse decided to keep her there for the day just to be sure.

Great. Now I fail the routine because of dreams. I would just-

Her thoughts were interrupted as the air in front of her shimmered and a scroll fell onto the blanket. What the hay? Who would send me a letter? In such a manner at that? She picked it up and broke the seal without even looking at it.

Dear Lightning Dust.

I assumed you would think the events of last night were just a dream, so I decided to provide you a bit of proof. We really met on a platform with a big tree atop and spoke about a chance how to win your family back. You also agreed to help us. I hope you won’t question your decision and our collaboration will be fruitful.

Best wishes, your new friend Twilight Sparkle.
PS: That migraine will pass soon. Just be patient.

All that Lightning Dust could do was stare dumbfounded at the wall in front of her, too shocked to celebrate. That’s how Rainbow found her when she visited during the lunch break.

“Hi Lightning. How are you-” she wasn’t allowed to finish her sentence as she was pounced by Lightning Dust and caught in a powerful hug. “Heh I know you are thankful for me saving your life, but aren’t you a bit melodramatic?” Rainbow chucked.

“You did much more than that!” Lightning said as she sat up. “Remember when you send that letter to Twilight Sparkle about my situation? She answered! And she is going to help me for sure!”

All the safety precautions Twilight took to prevent others from waking her too early worked much better than she hoped. So well, in fact, that she overslept by a long shot. When she finally returned to the waking world it was almost ten in the morning.

The first ten minutes of her day were spent with necessary rescheduling of her program. Once the letter to Lightning Dust was sent, which took more effort without Spike, she ate another bowl of cereals - also something she wouldn’t do if Spike was around - and sorted the books she still needed to read for her assignment, another job Spike would be adept for. Actually, whatever she looked at reminded her of Spike; the strange silence of having no one to talk to the most of everything.

Why haven’t I ever realised how much I like him around. I have to get him to return. He wouldn’t be happy serving Applejack. Neither would I be happy without him. We need each other I guess.

She started out of the door, but spotted Applejack marching toward the library with concerned look on her face. Hmm let’s find out what she is up to here. Best way would be to play oblivious, Twilight thought and hastily returned inside and to her books.

Ditzy’s day didn’t differ from the other days in the slightest. She woke up early, prepared the lunches for her daughters, sent them to school and went around her daily route, delivering post to every home in Ponyville. No time for distractions, no time to waste.

Only when the lunch time came she could take a bit of a rest. Sitting under the tree in the town park she munched on her sandwich and muffin happily, mulling about the meeting she attended.

When Twilight took cover before I landed, it really hurt. I’m not THAT bad flyer. And that one accident with delivery company wasn’t entirely my fault either. I should have expected that though. Everypony reacts that way.

She finished her meal, but still had some time to just relax before she was to continue her work. Watching the sky she was guessing the shapes of clouds. One in particular caught her attention; it looked like a pegasus with one wing.

Scintillant said they are good ponies. She has never lied to me when giving me tasks. Maybe I can befriend them. Nopony is completely bad, no matter how they treat others. They can learn. They will see I’m more than just a clumsy silly mare. Together we will do great things. A better world for Dinky and Sparkler.

Beware the ides of March.