“Uh, yes? That is my name, do you know me from somewhere?” Twilight looked over to Pinkie who was busy tossing a hoofful of pebbles from what looked like a popcorn bag into her mouth and chewing loudly.

“Yes, and no.” The zebra shook her head, sending her wild mane a flutter. “It matters not from where I know you, only that you are here now. Come, sit. I’m sure you have questions.”

The zebra gestured to the pot at the center of the room. “Pinkie Pie, my student, did you keep the pot boiling as I asked?”

“Yupperooni!”

“Good, good.” The old zebra trotted over to the pot and produced two cups from a nearby cubby and dipped one into the boiling pot before handing it over to Twilight. “Here, drink and then we'll talk.”

Twilight eyed the cup warily, the strange greenish black liquid swirling within bubbling occasionally. “Uh, no thanks. I don't need another potion.”

The zebra cocked her head for a second only to burst into laughter. “It is tea.”

Twilight blushed and took the cup, trying to ignore the zebra as she cackled while pouring herself a cup as well. The unicorn gently brought the cup to her lips with her magic, and took a single, tiny sip. Instantly her eyes went wide and she gulped down a mouthful of the strange liquid.

“I told you there were others that like my tea.” Zecora said while jabbing a hoof at Pinkie Pie, who in turn...

Stuck out her tongue at the aged zebra. “Yeah like one out of a hundred. How can you drink that stuff, Twilight? It's like, super duper bitter.”

“What? It's not bitter, it's actually kind of nice.”

The zebra’s eyebrow raised. “What do you think of the flavor?”

Twilight looked down at the drink, trying to think of what it tasted like only to come up with nothing. “I… don't know. It feels good though, leaves my mouth a little tingly, but…” She sipped the tea, rolling the liquid around in her mouth before swallowing. “Huh. Doesn't really taste like anything, really.”

Pinkie Pie shook her head. “You are one strange pony, Twilight. Zecora only let me try her tea once and it tasted like she liquified a whole bunch of bitterroot and then boiled it somehow.”

“Hmph! First my student insults my tea and now she insults my tea making. Go make yourself useful and get some more fire stones and the telling salts!” The zebra barked, gesturing towards the door.

“Uh, I can do that.” Twilight offered.

“No, no, that won't do. The guest’s job is to sit and enjoy, and Pinkie Pie lost righty a dozen times since coming into my tutelage, so that is no excuse!”

Pinkie Pie rolled her eyes. “Yes, mistress Zecora.” The troll hobbled out the door, stopping long enough to blow a raspberry at the zebra’s back.

The zebra rolled her eyes and gestured to the floor next to the pot where two pillows lay. “Come, sit, let us talk.”

Twilight followed the zebra’s suggestion and sat cross legged on the pillow, waiting patiently for the older mare to sit down across from her. The aged zebra’s limbs cracked and her joints popped but after a few seconds and a little adjusting, she sat cross-hooved on the floor.

“How did-”

The zebra held up her hoof, silencing the unicorn’s question before it could even leave her mouth. Zecora slowly tipped back her cup, downing the contents therein in one long gulp. “Ahh. Now, what was you're question?”

“How did you know who I was? I’ve never met you before in my life.”

The zebra chuckled. “Not in this one anway. That question does not matter, you will find the answer to that in time. Ask something else.”

Twilight frowned. “But-”

“-But nothing, ask something else. I know you have many questions.”

The unicorn huffed indignantly. “Fine. Do you know why, or how, I hurt Pinkie Pie?”

“Your priorities are commendable, but that still is not the right question. Dig deeper and ask the true question that is on your mind.”

“Bu-.” Twilight clamped her mouth shut before the zebra even had a chance to shush her. Evidently she wants me to ask something closer to the root cause, so what would… oh I get it! “What caused me to hurt her?”

“You are getting closer, but that is still not the question you truly want answered. Think back to before you came here, ask the question that your heart has been denying since your first day within the forest.”

Twilight ground her teeth together and grumbled. What kind of nonsense is this? A question my heart has been denying? The unicorn sighed, reluctantly pushing down her annoyance and forcing herself to really think about it.

What is the one question I’ve been wondering since my first day? The mare thought back, her mind going out to the very first day she stumbled into the strange forest. She remembered wondering what the forest was, how it came to be and what kind of strange magic had given rise to the odd inhabitants, but that was not a question she had ever denied.

As she continued to cast her mind back into her recent memories she couldn't help but grow more and more annoyed with the cryptic zebra. I don't get it, what kind of question could she possibly want me to ask?

Her eyes squeezed shut and she thought back to the very moment she had woken up, the very first thing she thought of suddenly popping into her mind unbidden. “How am I alive?”

The zebra smiled slyly and placed another cup of tea into Twilight’s waiting hooves. “Now that, is the right question. How could one live through the suffering you thought you went through?”

“I thought I did? What does that mean? How do you know about-”

“Hush, child! I was getting there. Sit, drink your tea and let this old zebra tell you a story.”

“Oh yay! I love stories! Is it the one about the manticore and the three fillies?” Pinkie asked inquisitively, leaning intently towards her teacher.

Twilight nearly toppled backwards off her cushion. How did a three legged troll sneak up on her? “Bwah, where did you?! How…? do I want to know?”

The troll merely shrugged. “Not really, that's a mystery for another time. Besides, Zecora is going to tell us a story and you do not want to miss her stories.” The troll leaned in close, whispering in Twilight’s ear. “Seriously though, you don't want to miss it.”

The zebra sipped her tea and motioned for Twilight to do the same. “I have told many stories and weaved many tales, but the yarn I spin this night is one as old as history itself.”

“I don't mean to interrupt, but don't zebra story tellers usually rhyme?” Twilight asked curiously.

Zecora sighed deeply. “I’m afraid they have left me, but that is a story for another time.”

Pinkie leaned close to the unicorn and jabbed her in the ribs. “Pst, I wouldn't touch that subject if I were you.”

Twilight blanched. “I’m sorry, I should have been more considerate.”

“Your concern is appreciated, and though it hurts me still, it was a long time ago.” The zebra shook her head. “Now, hold Your questions until after the story.”

Twilight nodded while Pinkie mimed zipping her lips, locking a padlock on her face and throwing away the key.

Pinkie Pie hoofed over a small black velvet bag, from which Zecora pulled a pinch of grey dust.

“Long, long ago, before the empires of today, there was only chaos, madness and war.” Zecora clapped her hooves together, causing the dust to explode and fill the hut with a haze so dense Twilight couldn't even see the zebra, whose voice now seemed to emanate from everywhere. “The war of the gods was endless, spiteful and cruel. In their power they nearly destroyed the world, and though they did not succeed in that regard, they did succeed in destroying each other.”

The zebra’s hooves clapped together once more and instantly the haze vanished, revealing two glowing balls floating between the trio. One was orange and blazed like the sun while the other glowed a subtle blue, it's cratered surface resembling the moon. “Only two gods were left, the daughters of life herself. Hidden away in case of such a calamity. Together they were destined to rule in the old god’s place and usher in the peace and prosperity the petty gods of the past could not.”

But folly ran through both of the sister’s blood, and though they ushered in the promised peace and prosperity, they did so through cruelty and war.” The zebra leaned close and blew away the sun and moon. “They knew no better, for even life herself had taken up arms against her fellow gods in the end. It was all they knew, and all they thought they were good at. In the end, when there were no enemies to defeat, no wars left to wage, a deep distrust began to fester between the two rulers.”

Zecora waved her arm and in its wake, a floating expanse of green hung in the air, one side slightly darker than the other. “Creatures had always been divided between day and night, each group favoring one or the other. In turn each sister favored the people that flourished under their light and in their arrogance they thought their chosen were superior.”

Small wisps floated from each side of the green, taking various shapes both big and small and once both sides were full they turned on one another, smokey weapons appearing in their grasp. “And then when war seemed inevitable and one sister seemed to be on the brink of madness, a bridge was born. A bridge not between water and land, but between day and night.”

“Her power was incredible, aweing both day and night with her natural abilities that seemed to rival even the new goddesses, and both sisters prized her for their own.” The smoky figures disappeared and restructured into two towering alicorns standing firmly on either side of the field while a small pony sat firmly in the middle. “Alas, she favored neither day nor night, and through wit and empathy, she managed to unite the sisters once more. The young mare knew well the dangers of war and the death that would inevitably follow.”

The smokey figures slowly met at the center and disintegrated entirely, replaced by three ponies standing side by side with the unicorn in the center. “Peace seemed assured and harmony was restored.But as you know, that peace was not meant to last. Though the student of day and night grew in power, she aged like all mortal beings, and on her death, peace was broken for the final time.”

The zebra drew forth another cloth bag and sprinkled her hoof with another mound of ash before tossing it into the air. “The world grew so mad that even history has forgotten why the conflict began.” the deep black smoke billowed between them, becoming two alicorns locked in combat, only to shift into a pair of pegasi swooping and diving, both trying to drive a blade into the other. “Did the bridge die or was she killed? Was it one of the sisters’ doing, or nature herself? We do not know. All we know is that chaos reigned in the wake of the bridge’s demise and the already strange forest of the Everfree grew ever more twisted in the years that followed.”

The shapes twisted into several other pairs of various ponies and monsters locked in combat. “Though they were evenly matched in power and arms, the eldest sister had always been the tactician. Despite her initial arrogance, she eventually drove her sister back. On and on she pushed until her own flesh and blood was forced to retreat into the chaotic and ancient forest of mystery and legend.”

The zebra waved her hooves and blew the smoke together until it formed a forest dense and thick. “The eldest sister was not content with the victory she had won, and pushed her forces ever onward, ever deeper, intent on ending her sister’s supposed madness once and for all.”

Thin, smoky shapes appeared at one end of the cloudy forest and began to march through it, only for the smoke ponies to begin to disappear until only a single smoke alicorn emerged out the other side. “History knows not what happened that night, but time whispers secrets to those who know how to listen. She whispers of a power beyond even the gods and a fight between family that would stain Equis forever. In the end, the eldest sister emerged, and though we know not what happened to the youngest, the moon has never moved again.”

Twilight blinked and leaned back in her seat, watching as the smoke slowly dissipated completely. Pinkie meanwhile sat in unabashed wonder, her jaw hanging open. “Wow, Zecora, that was great! Could you teach me how you did that part with the forest and the ponies?”

The old zebra chuckled. “Of course, my faithful student. In time I will teach you all I know.”

The troll turned to her friend and smirked. “Pretty neato, huh?”

Twilight scratched her head. “Yeah, I guess so, but I'm not really sure how that answers any of my questions. Unless my ancestor was also named Twilight, and she was the bridge, which might explain the curse thing? I mean, my mom did mention it was tradition to change your name to include Twilight when you married into the family, or to have Twilight in your name.”

“You are closer to the truth than you realize, my friend.” The mare threw back the last of her tea and put aside the cup. “The story answers many of your questions, though you have not asked them yet.”

The unicorn rolled her eyes. “Yeah, but how does that explain what happened? Or how I’m still alive?”

“Patience my friend, patience. First, you must tell me what you know of the soul.” The zebra refilled the unicorn’s cup before refilling her own as well.

“Every living thing has a soul, and the less intelligent and the younger, the smaller the soul. When the creature dies, the soul leaves to rejoin the old gods who choose if it should be reborn as something else.” Twilight frowned, noticing Pinkie Pie giggling and Zecora barely holding back her own laughter. “What?”

“The old alicorns are gone, Twilight.” The troll dropped a pebble on the ground before slamming her hoof into it, disintegrating it utterly. “Poof, gone forever.”

“Look, I don't buy into the tall tale of the old gods, or that Celestia is their chosen leader of the world’s ponies either, but that's what they taught.”

Zecora nodded sagely. “It is good to see you have an open mind my friend. It will serve you well.” The zebra sipped her own tea and sighed contently. “You are right to doubt the tale told by your former sovereign, as Pinkie Pie is correct. Alicorns may not age, but they can be killed, and when that happens, there isn't much that can be done about that fact.”

“What is the truth then? And what does this have to do with anything?”

“The fate of the old gods will be important soon, but the soul, that has everything to do with your question. It is why you are here, why you are feared, and why you accidentally hurt our dear Pinkie Pie.” The zebra reached back from her spot on the floor and grabbed another bag of salts before throwing a small pinch of the stuff into the air, where it dissipated into a small glowing blue sphere. “The soul is a force akin to magic or gravity. Unlike those things, it cannot be manipulated by magic, unless you happen to have a gift for it.”

The zebra gestured to the mare’s flanks where her star cutie mark rested, making Twilight frown. “So you’re saying your special talent has to be necromancy in order to use it?”

The zebra nodded. “My own people have no such restrictions, but…” She sighed and shook her head. “Again, that is a story for another time.”

“Are you insinuating I have such a talent?” Twilight looked down at her flank, half convinced it had changed, only to see the same star cutie mark that had been there since she had first learned how teleport when she was just a filly.

The zebra chuckled. “Yes and no. your talent is for magic in all its forms, and manipulating the soul is a form of magic. Though you have not had access to that side of yourself until recently.”

Twilight blinked. “Is that why my magic changed color and how I survived?”

“In a way. The talent for soul magic placed you on a different level of being which was only further complicated by your condition.”

“Wait, how did you know about my condition?”

The zebra just shrugged and smiled wryly. “You just told me.”

Pinkie Pie giggled. “She got you there, Twilight.”

The unicorn rolled her eyes. “Okay, so I have a talent for soul magic that was complicated by my nervous system being damaged... and?”

“And when your body tried to keep pulling in mana, your soul had essentially come loose from your body. It was probably absorbed by your lambda system, which would have only been possible due to the chaos of the forest.” The zebra sipped her tea, watching as her guest’s face twisted from one emotion to the next.

“I.. okay.” The unicorn rubbed her forehead. “I guess that makes sense, but how does a soul come loose?”

Pinkie Pie’s single remaining forehoof shot into the air. “Oh, oh! I know that one!”

Zecora nodded to her student. “Yes, Pinkie?”

“When the body dies, the soul dissipates, being absorbed by the ambient mana of Equis.”

The zebra nodded once more. “Well done, Pinkie. And furthermore, it is usually reabsorbed instantly, but with the Everfree…” The zebra shrugged. “Nothing is certain. Though I am curious as to why it chose now of all times.”

“Okay, wait a second. So you’re telling me my soul came loose, was consumed by my lambda system which somehow reanimated me, and that the forest chose to do that?”

Zecora chuckled. “Pretty much. It's a little more involved than that, and I am just guessing, but that seems to be the case. Don't worry, you are not a lich or anything, you can still get killed again... well, for now, anyway.”

“Wait, what do you-”

“Shh! Twilight, don't interrupt.”

Twilight stared at the troll incredulously. “But I-”

“You should know that you have a somewhat different set of dietary needs. For one, you need to consume living energy or matter regularly, or your body will break down and your soul will reach out and try and feed on anything it can.”

Twilight gulped, looking down at the empty space where Pinkie’s hoof had been. “Are you saying I have to-”

“Stars above, girl, no!” The zebra scoffed.

“But you said-”

“I said living matter or energy, which includes plants.” Zecora shook her head. “You’re a morbid one, you know that? It's not like you're a vampire or a ghoul or something! You just have to consume the essence of a living thing is all. You can stick to a purely vegetarian diet if you so choose, but living creatures, especially willing creatures, will give you the biggest boost of energy.”

Twilight chuckled nervously. “Sorry about that... I just assumed.”

Pinkie Pie rolled her eyes and placed a hoof on her friend’s shoulder. “Don't worry about it, Twi! I got tons of friends that eat meat, plants, magic, and even bugs! You’ll fit right in here in Ponyville!”

A faint smile trickled across the unicorn’s features. “Yeah, I guess you’re right. This isn't so bad. Anything else I have to know, Zecora?”

The zebra hummed thoughtfully. “Well, that fear aura of yours should go away once you've eaten your fill. Then you should be able to dampen it at will.”

The faint smile on Twilight’s face bloomed into a wide grin. “You mean I can finally go out without everyone being scared of me?”

“Unless you start dressing up in black robes and start skulking around town. Just stay well fed and you should be fine.” Zecora replied, sipping her tea.

Twilight sighed, her shoulders sagging. “That's… wonderful news. Do I just eat the whole plant or what?”

Zecora chuckled. “Merely approach the object you would like to drain and focus yourself completely on the target. Once you are focused you need only to extend your aura towards it and your body will do the rest.”

“How do you know all that? Are you-”

Pinkie Pie suddenly burst out laughing, clapping the unicorn on the shoulder and shaking her head. “Zecora is a zebra, Twilight. Her body isn't the same as a pony’s.”

Twilight chuckled nervously. “Right, sorry. I should probably stop assuming things.”

“Always good advice, my friend. But to answer your question, I knew someone who had a similar set of circumstances as yourself. Though she has long since passed, I still remember her trials and tribulations, even if the years have muddied them somewhat.”

“Wow Zecora, thank you for telling me all this.”

Zecora waved her hoof dismissively. “That is not all. I should warn you not to take too much from the forest, unless you wish to anger it. Choose those creatures and plants whom are on death’s door, and you will not raise the forest’s ire.”

The zebra sipped her tea in a long, slow motion, sighing contently once she had drained her cup once more. “One more thing before you go.”

Twilight put down her now empty cup. “What? I’m not going anywhere.”

“With time and patience, you will be able to master necromancy. It is imperative you do this.” The zebra stated firmly.

The unicorn blanched. “What, like raise the dead? You… You can teach me that?”

Zecora leaned forward and tapped the part of her forehead where a horn would be, causing Twilight to groan and facehoof. “Right, duh. It wouldn't be the same.”

The zebra chuckled. “Necromancy is not only about raising the dead and concocting foul curses.”

Twilight cocked her head. “It's not?”

“You may think necromancy is a practice most foul, but that is no excuse to sit and scowl. With proper practice a boon it will be, and will help you find a truth you may not want to see.”

“Hey, you rhymed!” Pinkie shouted.

Zecora blinked. “So it seems.”

Pinkie frowned. “Awww.”

“Thanks again for your help, Zecora. But do you mind if I ask you a few questions? I was really wondering what you meant when you said you knew me, but not in this life? Also, what did you mean when you said I can get killed, for now?” Twilight’s eyes went wide and she leaned forward. “And how did you know about what happened before I came here, and-”

Zecora opened her mouth wide, yawning exaggeratedly for several seconds. “I am sorry, my friend, but my journey has left me tired. I assure you, everything will be revealed in time. All I can say for now is that the answers you seek are in the undertower.”

Pinkie gasped, nearly falling over in the process. “Are you serious, Zecora? The undertower is like, super mega dangerous!”

Zecora got up and trotted over to her bed. “Dangerous though it may be, that dark place is the key.” The zebra flopped onto her bed and turned over, tossing a blanket over herself. “Now leave an old mare to her sleep, these bones are dead tired.”

“What is this undertower place?” Twilight asked.

“It's a secret tower deep underground, beneath the old castle. It’s guarded by lots of scary monsters and cruel traps.” Pinkie replied.

“So gather your allies, friends and tools, or you may find yourself played like fools.” The zebra remarked, turning back around. “And one last thing before you go, I have one last thing that you should know.”

“Uh, okay But how did you know the answers I seek are-”

“Shh! Do not interrupt me child.” Twilight frowned but reluctantly said nothing. “There is only one lesson on necromancy that I can teach. And that is that necromancy is not all doom and gloom. If you have the strength, you can even help stubborn life bloom.”

Before Twilight could even open her mouth to ask a question, Zecora had already turned back over and begun to snore loudly. Grumbling to herself, Twilight got up and trotted over to the door. “Well, that was… infuriating.”

“Hehe, Zecora always says in order to learn, you must lead your student to the answer. She probably wants you to learn something on your own.”

Twilight huffed. “Still, she sure knows how to give a lot of answers and somehow ask just as many questions.”

Pinkie Pie clasped the pony around the shoulder awkwardly, shaking her head slowly. “Finally, someone else knows my pain.” The pair chuckled and Pinkie disengaged from the embrace. “Seriously though, she probably is trying to teach you something. She has a way of answering a question without even answering it that makes it just stick in your head like glue! You just gotta look for it.”

“Hmm, that is one way of looking at it, I suppose.” The unicorn shook her head, clearing her mind of any lingering questions. “Either way, I should find someone who knows more about this undertower thing, and hopefully, someone who can help me.”

Pinkie grinned. “Well, you came to the right place! I’ll help by gathering up the ingredients for some helpful potions! You should find someone to get some supplies. Oh, and we’re gonna need some muscle!”

“Muscle?” Twilight asked incredulously.

“Well yeah! It's dangerous in there, and we need someone who can fight.” the troll hopped up onto her back hooves and pretended to box with an invisible opponent.

“I suppose you’re right again, Pinkie Pie. But where would I find someone like that?”

The pink troll rubbed her chin and thought before her eyes suddenly shot open. “Oh, I know! Rainbow Dash doesn't look tough, but she’s actually super-duper tough!”

Twilight groaned and rolled her eyes. “Not her…”

Pinkie Pie frowned. “You really should give her another chance, Twilight. She would be a good friend if you got to know her.”

The unicorn frowned and kicked a pebble Pinkie had dropped. “I guess.” She shook her head suddenly. “Either way, I have other things to focus on in the meantime. Namely like finding some provisions, and maybe a book about this undertower place.”

“Think about it, Twilight. Oh, and stick to the path! I made sure to hang some more charms, so as long as you stay to the path you should be fine!”

The unicorn breathed a sigh of relief. “Thank you, Pinkie. See you soon?”

The troll wiggled her solitary hoof. “When the forest wills it.”

Twilight raised an eyebrow at that and stared at the troll.

Pinkie chuckled. “It’s a saying. Means don't worry about it, everything will work out in the end.”

The unicorn shook her head and turned towards the path. “Whatever you say, Pinkie Pie.”

Having turned away from her new friend, Twilight didn't notice Pinkie chuckling quietly before moving towards the back of the hut and into the herb garden she had hidden away. “I better make those potions extra special strong.” The troll muttered, her mind whirling with all that she had left to do.

Behind her, Twilight walked into the forest, her mind whirling with questions to the answers she had been given. As she walked deeper into the forest, she noticed an odd pattern marked into the trees every hundred or so feet. Three scratches had been made in the tree’s bark, one short, one long, one short, and all three scratches seemed to glow faintly when the moonlight struck them.

The unicorn stopped and looked up at the sky, noting the barren, cratered face of the moon staring down at her from the spot it had always sat in. She had hardly ever seen the moon in all her time in Canterlot. Even when she went stargazing, it seemed absent from the sky. Had Celestia hidden it from sight somehow? Twilight shook her head, dismissing such questions she may never know the answer to.

Stopping by one of the scratch marks, Twilight leaned in and inspected it, her nostrils filling with the potent scent of the pine tree where the marks were inscribed upon. More than just the natural scent of the tree, there also seemed to be another smell, one far more subtle and far stranger. It was like animal pheromones or something similarly primal. Either way Twilight couldn't figure out just what it was, only that it stirred some sort of instinctual action within her that told her to leave.

Shrugging her shoulders she turned back to the path, continuing her trek back to Ponyville and forgetting almost instantly about the marks and the strange smell.

True to Pinkie’s word, Twilight made it back to town without so much as hearing a creature larger than a squirrel, which only got her wondering. She couldn't stop her analytical mind from wandering, trying to puzzle out the nature of Pinkie’s charms. Clearly they had worked to dissuade certain creatures, but was it based solely on size? She had seen signs of chipmunks and squirrels and even an odd rabbit ,but nothing larger than that.

In the end she made a note of asking Pinkie about it. Only to realize something that had been staring her right in the face. Charms!

Twilight slapped her face with a hoof.

Charms weren't a type of magic or alchemy or anything that she had heard of during her exhaustive studies, and she had thought she knew of every branch of magic and alchemy in existence. Although now that she was thinking about it, she realized it did make sense. It seemed as though the charms were part alchemy, part magic, and she doubted Celestia would appreciate such a thing in her perfectly ordered society.

She shook her head and stamped her hooves, working out her aggression. Getting angry about something this silly won't help you here, Twilight. Now focus!

She glanced at the edge of town, wondering where exactly she should start looking for the things she needed. A library might have the book she would needed, the guard barracks would have someone experienced, and Applejack would have the provisions she would need. But the meager bag of gems she had left at Applejack’s was awfully light. That wasn't even taking into account her new dietary needs and how she could fulfill those as well.

Groaning, Twilight walked down the chaotic, maze-like streets of Ponyville, letting her hooves wander as her mind did as well.

Where should I start? The tower?

No, she might run into Rainbow Dash over there and she wasn't ready for that quite yet.

Applejack’s?

She wasn't quite ready for that either.

What she really needed right now was a guide, someone who knew the town and where to go to get what she needed. However with Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie out of the picture, that left only Fluttershy and that Arachne named…

Twilight stopped and blinked, searching her memory for the elusive name.

Rarity! That was it.

She doubted she would be able to find the wild soul, and Twilight knew how much Fluttershy disliked being in town. Which just left that Arachne pony…. Spider…. Thing.

Twilight mentally chastised herself for her poor word choice before focusing on her goal. Now, where did this Rarity being live?

She hadn't gotten a good look at the exterior of Rarity’s home, nor the interior, now that she was thinking about it. That entire day had been so hectic that it was a bit of a blur to the unicorn. With a vague picture of Carousel Boutique in mind she set off, hoping she didn't have to wander too long.

Sure enough, there was only one building in Ponyville that seemed to match the description of a carousel. Though that was only a loose description, as it was unlike any carousell Twilight had ever seen.

The main floor appeared somewhat normal, at least for Ponyville anyway. It had two large circular windows on the front, both of which displayed a ponyquin, and a small open sign hanging in the left most one. Only they weren't exactly the ponyquins Twilight remembered, as one was obviously smaller and had fake bat wings poking out from the back of the dress. The dress itself was dark, a deep violet with black lace trim and teal gems interlaced at seemingly random intervals, vaguely resembling the stars. The entire ensemble was rather voluminous, yet still hugged the not-ponyquin tight enough that it probably wouldn't get in the way of normal movement.

The other ponyquin was a fake arachne, similar to Rarity herself. Her dress was more of what Twilight imagined a dress designed and worn by a spider would look like. It was dark as well, but not quite as dark as the other dress. This one took on more earthy tones, and seemed to be more of a shawl than a true dress. Whether or not that was from the differences in biology, or that was simply the fashion, Twilight didn't know. Either way, the entire thing had a large, web-like pattern interlaced throughout, and the unicorn couldn't help but smile at the sight.

Both looked nice, but the arachne’s was brighter, more alive, and lacked the almost victorian era, ballroom appearance of the other dress. Twilight’s eyes trailed upwards towards the second story, where several different creatures were on display, attached to poles much like a normal carousel. Except these were obviously not of the three tribes Twilight had grown up seeing represented in such a way. Ponies were replaced by a minotaur, a thestral and a strange fanged pony with insectoid wings and a jagged horn.

The poles extended from the second floor up to the third, where a single small window overlooked the town, nearly scraping the canopy of the trees. All the windows save the very top had the soft glow of candle light coming from within, though the light itself was a little low, barely illuminating the inside of the store.

Probably since most folk around here have no trouble seeing in the dark.

Twilight looked around, realizing it was only what she would consider noon, yet there were no ponyvillians around. Surely her fear aura didn't extend that far? Shaking her head, she made her way to the door.

Rarity was the only other being around that she knew who could help her, and though she was loathe to ask yet another person for help, she knew it had to be done. Raising her hoof to knock, Twilight stopped only to face hoof.

It's a store, you don't have to knock. With that in mind, she pushed her way inside, her eyes searching over the interior of the fashionista’s shop.

Dresses of all shapes and sizes were displayed on an equally diverse amount of not-ponyquins. Larger, less fancy dresses were displayed on what appeared to be a rocky, troll-like ponyquin, scattered amongst the arachne, thestral and even the odd minotaur-shaped ponyquin. The sheer amount of them was a little creepy, but Twilight figured it was necessary, what with all the many different beings that lived in and around Ponyville. It wasn't like Canterlot, where they could get away with three or four types of clothes displayed and then simply hanging the rest on racks.

Clearly this Rarity person understood her customers very well.

“Hello?” Twilight called out, a little confused by the deathly silent shop and lack of a welcome.

The unicorn glanced back over her shoulder, wondering if she had been wrong to simply walk in. She shook her head and called a little louder.

“Hello! It’s Twilight Sparkle, I was wondering if Rarity was available.”

Twilight waited.

And waited.

When no response came for nearly a minute, the unicorn turned to the door, only to stop when she heard a door open somewhere deeper in the shop, followed by the hushed sound of distant voices.

“Sweetie, what is wrong with you? I’m just trying to greet a customer!” Rarity hissed. “Stop pulling on my leg!”

Twilight turned back around, trying to listen to the faint sound of arguing.

“There is not a monster in my shop. Now will you get ahold of yourself and let go of me?”

“But Rarity, can't you feel it? There is something down there! Please don't go!” A small, feminine voice squeaked back, desperation clearly evident in her pleading tone.

“Sweetie Silver Belle, you are going to let go of me this instant, or you will be going to bed without any supper, do you hear me?”

There was a pause, then the skittering sound of many legs, before a door suddenly slammed shut, followed by an indignant huff and another skitter of legs as Rarity made her way down the stairs. Thinking quickly, Twilight spun around and pretended as though she was intensely interested in the display before her. She tried to pay even less attention to the creepy sound of eight legs skittering across the floor towards her.

“Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where every garment is chic, unique and magnifique! Oh, hello again Twilight! So that was you I heard down here.”

“Hello again, Rarity. How are you?” Twilight asked back innocently, still half-pretending to eye the display before her.

The Arachne rolled her eyes. “Just fine, until a minute ago. Sweetie Belle started making a fuss about a monster coming into the store.”

Twilight shuffled nervously. “I err..” It had just dawned on her that this plan was really, really stupid.

What would I even say? Hey Rarity, would you mind closing up shop in the middle of the work night in order to show me around town? Stupid, stupid, stupid!

“I must apologize for whatever my line of minotaur pants did to upset you.”

Twilight blinked, just now realizing what kind of clothes she had been pretending to look at. “No, that's not it... I just realized how silly it was for me to come here.”

“Now, now, darling. Tell me what’s on your mind.” The arachne placed a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder, forcing the mare to look up into the arachne’s warm, gentle smile.

“Well, I…”

“Ah, ah, ah. I will not take no for an answer. Tell aunty Rarity what troubles you.”

Twilight chuckled. “Well alright... I was hoping to find someone that could guide me around town. I need to find some things for a little… expedition I'm planning.”

Rarity tilted her head slightly, clearly intrigued. “Oh? And just where are you going?”

“The undertower.”

Rarity gasped, covering her mouth with a hoof. “You can't be serious! You are but one pony! And the undertower is in the cursed, desolate part of that dirty old castle!”

Twilight frowned. “Yeah, but there’s something down there that I need.”

The arachne’s lips pursed and she looked the unicorn up and down in a slow, appraising motion. Just as Twilight was about to ask what that look was for, the arachne’s eyes suddenly flew open. “Ideaaaa! Why don't you let me come with you? And in return, I shall help you in any way I can!”

Twilight blinked, confused by the sudden enthusiasm. “Why do you want to go there? I thought you said it was all dirty and cursed?”

The arachne tossed her mane to the side and scoffed. “A proper lady is always ready for a little dirt. The rewards will be more than worth it, after all.”

“Oh, what kind of rewards? Don't tell me you want some bricks from the old castle as well?”

“What? Stars above, why would I want that? No, what I’m looking for is one of the banners that hang in the throne room... which is unfortunately in the more dangerous section of the castle.”

Twilight’s ears perked up. “What's so special about the banners?”

Rarity hugged her chest as she spun in a little circle. “Oh, they are just the most amazing things! When I was very small, I got to hold a square of that enchanted silk, and it was the softest, yet strongest material ever woven by one of my kind. With such a flexible and durable material on my side, my boutique would be the talk of the town!”

Her eyes sparkled as she scurried up to Twilight, grabbing the unicorn’s cheeks in her hooves. “So, what do you say?”

Twilight blinked dumbly. “Hokay.”

“Yes, yes, yes! You won't regret this, I promise you!” The arachne clapped her hooves together excitedly.

Well, that was easier than I thought. “Do you have a piece of paper? I need to start a checklist.”

“Of course!” The arachne scuttled over to the till and reached behind it, producing a small pad of paper and quill, complete with ink pot.

Levitating the writing utensils and paper over to her drew Twilight an odd look, which only grew worse as she scribbled down her small list of tasks.

“Are you okay, darling? I know I should have said something before, but your magic looks a bit… off.” Rarity remarked.

Twilight sighed. “It's just a part of my condition.”

The spider pony skittered back a few feet, her hoof covering her mouth. “It's not contagious, is it?”

The unicorn chuckled darkly. “It's impossible to transmit.”

The arachne’s posture relaxed slightly. “Sorry, I shouldn't have assumed.”

“Don't worry about it.” Twilight gestured to the checklist laid out before them. “Alright, so the first thing we need is a professional, someone who can help keep us safe while we’re down there.”

Rarity frowned. “I’m afraid I don't know of anyone that would fit such a description.”

“I’m sure we’ll find someone.” The unicorn tapped her quill beside the next item. “Second, we need information on this undertower and the area. I don't want to walk in there blind. The optimal solution would be finding someone that fills the first two requirements, but I’m not gonna hold out for that.”

“Maybe the library would have something on it? The castle is relatively well explored and safe, and there have been some expeditions to that wing of the castle. Even if they were…” The arachne gulped. “Unsuccessful.”

Twilight frowned. “Yeah, that element of danger is what I’m most worried about. Either way we'll go slow and play it safe. I was thinking of making a base camp outside the undertower. Someplace safe where we can rest and recuperate.”

“Good thinking. I may be willing to help, but I’m afraid I would be a bit at a loss when it comes to fighting and other such acts of barbarity.”

The unicorn chuckled. “I figured as much.”

“Thank the stars we are on the same page. A lady must know how to defend herself, but getting dirty is never pleasant.”

“You know, you don't have to come. We could probably bring back the banners if you gave us a good description.” Twilight offered.

Rarity scoffed. “And anger the spirits of the castle? I think not!”

Twilight rolled her eyes and was about to say there is no such thing as spirits. But then she realized she knew a spirit, she could apparently do necromancy and pretty much everything she had ever been taught might very well have been a lie.

“Right.” She muttered. “After that we just need to gather some provisions, and than we should be ready. Anything you want to add to the list?” Twilight raised her quill.

The arachne tapped her chin thoughtfully. “Hmm... I would recommend you bring some tents, pure spring water, and someone who knows how to make restorative potions. Or at the very least have some of the potions on hoof, just in case.”

“I guess I can understand the tents and the potions, but why does the water have to be pure spring water?”

Rarity scoffed again, shaking her head in dismay. “It’s simply the best water in the forest. It’s all I ever drink.”

Twilight rolled her eyes but added it to the list anyway. “Alright, anything else?”

“Oh, candles and lamps! My eyesight may be good, but I heard it gets unnaturally dark in that wing of the castle.” Rarity added.

Twilight nodded, adding candles and lamps to the list. “Alright, when do you close down?”

Rarity giggled behind a hoof. “I own the store darling, it closes whenever I want it to. And I just so happen to have all my orders completed.” her eyes lit up and she suddenly turned, her many legs carrying her to the stairs only to slap her forehead and turn back around. “I will need to find a sitter for Sweetie Belle and make sure everything is in order. Go on ahead and try and find us an adventurous type. I’ll meet you at the market.”

Twilight nodded. “Right.” She blinked. “Wait, where is the market?”

“At the center of town! Take a left when you leave the shop, then a right down lunar avenue!” Rarity yelled down from upstairs.

Okay, I can do this. Twilight took a deep breath and stepped outside. First things first, I need to find someone who can handle themself in a fight. If I can't find someone to do that, then the rest is irrelevant. Now, where do I find such someone like that? Maybe that nice guard I talked to before? If he can't help, then he at least should know someone, right?

Hmm, maybe. It would be a good place to start, even if I might run into that Rainbow Dash pony.

With that in mind, she headed down towards the tower, all the while unaware of a slitted pair of eyes peering down at her from the canopy. Far above the streets of Ponyville, a rainbow maned thestral straightened her leathery wings and soundlessly leapt into the night, her speed carrying her to the umbral tower with all the haste she could muster.

What would an outsider possibly want with the old castle? Or the undertower for that matter? The thestral’s eyes narrowed as she flew. I bet she's trying to steal some lost relic or release some sort of evil monster! Her eyes went wide as she imagined some great flaming creature emerging from the castle, intent on burning down the forest and destroying her home.

Not on my watch! With a burst of speed she zipped around the last corner and came to a skidding stop at the entrance of the umbral tower, tearing a deep groove into the dirt and kicking up a fair amount of dust.

The older guard at the door sighed and shook his head while the younger guard coughed and waved a hoof, trying to dissipate the dust that clogged the air.

“How many times have I told you to slow down when you approach the tower? Look at what you did.” The guard gestured to the twin grooves in the dirt. “The captain is going to be furious you know.” He remarked with a frown.

“No time! Outsider wants to sneak into the undertower! have to get some backup before we bring her in!” Rainbow Dash replied, making a beeline for the door only to stop when the older guard held out his spear, blocking the way. “Hey, what gives?”

“The commander mentioned all news on the outsider should go directly to him, remember? You were there.”

“Fine. I’ll go tell him the news first,” the brightly colored thestral grumbled, “then he’ll give me some back up and we’ll arrest her.”

The guard shook his head. “Whatever, just tell commander Hallow already.”

In a flash the thestral was gone, zipping inside and sprinting towards the commander’s office, leaving behind one annoyed thestral, and another confused.

“Why exactly is she assigned to something so important?” The younger guard asked gesturing towards the door the aforementioned thestral had just passed through.

The older guard chuckled. “Kid, trust me. She may not look it, but she's tough. Top marks on everything but obedience, and loyal to the core. She's the right bat for the job, trust me.”

The younger guard shook her head and grumbled. The image of Rainbow Dash getting top marks in anything other than being a hot head was a hard one to grasp. In the end she merely shrugged, glad of the fact that the outsider wasn't coming here.

Said relief was shattered the instant a distinct horned and lanky pony appear down the road, making the guard clutch her weapon tightly. The older guard looked down, noticing his younger’s sudden tension and following her eyes up to the source of her apprehension.

“Oh for fu-”

Above them Rainbow Dash stood anxiously before the door to Dark Hallow’s office, shifting nervously from hoof to hoof. He had already received her report but instead of giving Dash the squad she had requested, he had commanded her to stand outside and wait, before sending word that the outsider should not be detained but actually allowed to roam free. He even insisted that she be encouraged to explore the castle, on the promise that she not take anything from it’s hallowed halls.

His receptionist, Mrs. Ever Flight, wasn't any help either, as she was intently staring at her hoof, filing it for a few seconds before starting the entire process over on the other forehoof. Her calm and collected demeanor only further annoyed the twitchy thestral, and Rainbow Dash couldn't help but grind her teeth a little. When her patience had finally reached it's breaking point, she heard the voice of the commander shout from behind the door.

“Come in, private Dash!”

“Finally.” She groaned, pushing her way inside and offering a quick salute, stepping back inside the musty office.

“Your assignment has changed.” He gestured over to a small, pure-white gem roughly the size of an apple that currently sat on his desk. “You will keep this gem on you until further notice. If it turns black at any time, take note of that and include it in your next report.”

The rainbow maned thestral grabbed the gem and turned it over in her hoof. It seemed like a normal light gem, although it was a little smoother than usual. “What does it do?”

“Don't worry about that, just tell us if it changes color. It will stay black for a few hours after it first changes color so you don't have to check it constantly.” The smaller thestral stood up and paced in front of the window. “ I also want you to grab one of the militia kits and the books that will be ready for you, and aid this outsider in her search.”

Rainbow Dash’s mouth hung open in shock. The unicorn was to receive not only approval, but assistance? “You can't be serious, commander. She could be a spy!”

“Which is why you are going to keep such a close eye on her.” The thestral turned, his eyes narrowing at the other being as he glared over the table. “Right?”

Rainbow Dash wilted. “Yes, commander Dark Hallow.”

He maintained his hard glare for a few seconds before chuckling suddenly. “Honestly, you've done a good job so far, private. Keep this up and you might just get that promotion you’ve had your eye on.”

Her eyes lit up. “Really sir?”

The commander wiggled a hoof at her. “That's only if you help her with her objective. Keep one eye on what she's doing, and another on the gem. Discreetly.”

“You can count on me, commander!” She turned to leave, only to feel a hoof on her shoulder and found herself turned back around where the commander was staring intently into her eyes.

“A lot of trust is being placed in you, Rainbow Dash. I hope you understand that.”

Rainbow chuckled nervously. “How hard could it be to help one little pony? I got this.”

“Still. Don't think for one second that this will be easy. The undertower is in a dangerous wing of the castle, and the tower itself is even more dangerous. Do not underestimate it, understood?”

The thestral shook off her commander’s hoof and shot him a cocky smile. “Like I said commander, I got this.”

Shaking his head, the older thestral walked back behind his desk and plunked down in his chair, a hoof reaching for his pipe. “See to it that you do. I do not want to have to add another name to the wall.”

Rainbow Dash stood a little taller, her back a little straighter. “You got it, commander. Is that it?”

He sighed and crossed his hooves on his desk. “That's it, private. Best of luck. And don't forget what I told you.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Rainbow Dash mumbled as she trotted out the door.

Now alone in his office, the commander groaned and rubbed his temples. This certainly was an amazing opportunity, but it also might doom the entire operation and the hope he had built up after hearing about the strange foreigner. Still…

He glanced over at the moon statue and felt the worries that were plaguing him begin to lift. If everything worked as he hoped, the rewards would certainly be worth any sacrifice.

Outside, a rather confused Twilight blinked as Rainbow Dash hoofed over several books along with a saddle bag filled to the brim with stuff. On the brief glance Twilight had managed to sneak inside her new rough-looking saddle bags, she’d seen a crowbar, over a hundred feet of rope tied to the end of a grappling hook, and several other miscellaneous things that she might need on the outing she had planned. Twilight slung the saddle bags over her back, noting the surprising weight that settled on her back and onto her still weak leg.

“Wait, so why are you giving me all this? What is all this stuff, anyways?” Twilight remarked as another small book was added to the growing pile currently held aloft in her magic.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “Those books are on survival, records of the expeditions into the forbidden area of the castle, and everything we know about it and the undertower. As for why you’re carrying it, well, that's because you’re the egghead and I need to stay light and fast. Duh.”

“No, I mean, why are you giving me all of this for free?”

“We’re not giving it to you. You’re borrowing it from us. The commander doesn't want to see you get hurt so he sent me along with this stuff to help us out.” The Rainbow-maned thestral dropped a towel on top of the pile and smiled. “There, all set.”

“Why do we need a towel?”

“You always need a towel. First thing they taught us in basic.”

Twilight couldn't understand why they would need a towel, but she also had no clue if the thestral was joking, so she just shrugged and tucked the towel into her saddle bag.

“Uh, okay.” The unicorn tucked the books in one side of her bags, adding to the already considerable weight resting on her back. “Aren't you going to carry anything?”

The thestral grinned and gestured to the crescent blade on her side before giving her new, more protective armor a firm thump with her hoof. “I got everything I need to keep us safe. Anything else would slow me down, and could be the difference between life and death.”

Twilight looked at the cumbersome armor the other mare now wore. Though it didn't look terribly different from the deep purple armor she had worn before, Twilight could tell this was much different. For starters, she could tell the thestral had a chain shirt underneath, and her minimal helmet was replaced with one that covered nearly everything but her eyes. The helm was also styled in such a way as to not obstruct her range of vision. The plates on the armor were also larger, less ceremonial, and they covered nearly the entirety of the thestral’s body. She also had a pair of knives strapped to her right forehoof, while her left hoof was bare, only covered by a strange bangle. Finally, she had her own set of saddle bags thrown over her armor, but they were much smaller than the rough leather ones Twilight wore. Rainbow’s bags were much lighter and strapped into her armor, meaning the thestral could probably go completely upside down without losing her bags..

“Fine.” Twilight muttered.

“What's next, egghead?” Rainbow asked, launching into the air and hovering nearby.

“I am not…” The unicorn sighed. “We have to go back to Applejack’s first, and then meet Rarity by the market.”

“What do you need from Applejack?”

“I have to apologize for something... and we still need provisions.”

“Pfft, not me. I got my own.” she hefted the bangle and shot the unicorn a look. “Let's go, I want to get everything ready before dayfall.”

Twilight arched an eyebrow at the strange statement but stayed silent, reasoning it must have been some sort of colloquialism she didn't know.

The pair’s trek to Sweet Apple Acres was a silent one, neither really having anything to say to the other that didn't boil down to a thinly veiled statement of distrust on the part of Rainbow Dash, or annoyance at the former from Twilight. Eventually they made their way to the orchard without much in the way of distractions other than once where Twilight tripped over a root, much to Rainbow Dash’s amusement.

It took a surprisingly little amount of wandering before they managed to locate the house, the forest guiding them to their destination with little difficulty this time. Surprisingly, they didn't see hide nor hair of any of the apple family during their trek through the orchard, and now that the old farm house was in view they knew why.

Big Mac stood on the porch, standing vigilant, his eyes never leaving the unicorn as she walked closer. Making sure to leave lots of room between her and the house, Twilight stopped and gulped, drawing a strange glance from her companion.

“What's the matter outsider, scared of ol’ Mac?” The thestral snickered.

Twilight pawed the ground nervously. “A little.” Shaking her head she looked up to the large wolflike earth pony. “Hi, um, Big Mac. I was hoping to talk to Applejack if she was around...”

Big Mac stared down at the pair for several long seconds before stomping one massive hoof twice. Seconds later Applejack pushed open the screen door with a weary sigh, limping out onto the porch. “Yeah, what is it Mac? Oh.” She pushed her stetson up a little further on her head, her eyes going wide. “Back already.”

The unicorn gulped under the combined stare of two of the apple siblings. “I’m going to the old castle in search of answers, and I was hoping you could help us out with some apples?”

“Well, I’ll be.” Applejack remarked.

Bic Mac snorted and gestured in the direction of the bunker Twilight had been staying in, making his point clear without ever having to speak a word.

“Now, I know we ain't having this conversation again. Would ya please go inside so I can talk to our guest alone?”

The larger being’s eyes narrowed and he snorted angrily, pawing at the porch and shaking his head.

Applejack spun around and glared angrily up at him. “Now that's enough of that, I said git!”

Big Mac’s lips pulled back into a frown, revealing his strangely sharp teeth. After a few seconds of strained silence he reluctantly passed by his sister and went inside.

“Heh, sorry about that. He can be as stubborn as a mule sometimes.”

Twilight felt her muscles relax the second Big Mac was no longer visible. “Big brothers are supposed to be like that.”

The farm mare chuckled and made her way over to the pair, walking a little lighter on the back left hoof that had the majority of tree roots digging into it. The mare gave a friendly smile and nodded to the thestral. “Rainbow Dash. Nice to see you when you ain't nappin in mah trees.”

The thestral snorted dismissively. “Whatever.”

Twilight cleared her throat. “Anyway. Sorry again about before, Applejack. If it makes you feel any better, I found out why I did what I did, and it won't happen again.”

Applejack nodded slowly. “Good. That old hole in the ground didn't mean nothing to nobody, but Pinkie means everything to everybody.”

“So, will you help us out? I know I still have to work on that map for you, but this is really important.” Twilight pleaded.

The apple farmer frowned and rubbed her chin thoughtfully. “Hey Dash, you know where the library is in that old castle?”

Dash blinked. “Yeah. It's in the off-limits area, though.”

The farmer nodded slowly. “Right, I’ll help ya. If you help me get to the library.”

“What do you need from the library?”

“All I’ll say is it's a family matter.”

Rainbow Dash frowned. “What, is there, like, some sort of super-secret apple farming book in there you’re going to steal?”

The apple farmer frowned “I ain't gonna steal nothing. Now do ya want my help or not?”

Twilight quickly put herself between the guard and the apple farmer, stifling the ensuing argument before it began. “Yes, absolutely!” A huge smile spread across the unicorn’s face and she suddenly wrapped the tree bound pony in a tight hug. “Thank you so much, Applejack! You have no idea what this means to me.”

Applejack blinked, feeling an odd sense of power rippling through her. The tree on her back groaned slightly, it's roots retreating a few inches from the farmer’s body. “No need to thank me, y'all are doing me a favor as well. Seems only fair to give something back.”

Twilight released the other being and took a step back. “Still... Thank you Applejack.”

A small blush spread across the farmer’s face and she rubbed the back of her neck. “Aw, shucks, Twi, that's just what friends do.”

Rainbow Dash snorted. “Alright, break it up you two, I don't wanna have to take you in for public indecency.”

“What? I just gave her a hug.” The farmer chuckled slightly, a huge smile spreading across her face. “You’re just jealous this pretty little thing hugged me and not you.”

“What!?” the thestral yelled, suddenly flying right up into the farmer’s face, her slitted eyes narrowed. “You take that back.”

Twilight blushed profusely, utterly baffled by anyone other than her mother calling her pretty. She gulped down her embarrassment and magically pulled the two beings apart “Alright, break it up you two.”

Applejack shrugged and shot Rainbow Dash a sly grin. “You are too easy to tease, sugar cube.”

The thestral huffed indignantly, turning away from the both of them. “Come on Twilight, let's leave this overgrown weed to her trees.”

Twilight rolled her eyes and gave Applejack another smile. “Thanks again. Wait, where should we meet you?”

“There’s a big spruce tree at the edge of Ponyville, Rainbow knows where it is. I’ll meet ya there.”

With that, the thestral and the unicorn turned back to town, quickly leaving the twisted trees of Sweet Apple Acres behind them. When the two beings were swallowed by the forest, Big Mac stepped out of the house, frowning at the spot he had lost sight of the pair.

He snorted once, airing his annoyance.

“Ya know it was a good idea, we can't afford to hire some muscle to get us in there, and it's not like you can go.”

Big Mac’s frown deepened, gaining a more worried look to it.

“Now don't you worry none, Rainbow Dash knows her stuff and Twilight doesn't seem like a slouch either. Plus, she's got magic. Real honest to goodness magic. I’m sure with those two on our side we could handle whatever that nasty castle could throw at us.”

The big farmer’s expression grew hopeful but his eyes bellied an unspoken question.

“I don't know where it is, only that it’s there. I’m sure with their help we can finally find it and fix all this mess.” Applejack waved a hoof over the farm.

Big Mac lightly punched the other farmer on the shoulder, shooting her a wide, hopeful smile.

“Heh, don't give me that look yet. We still gotta find it first and then make it back here in one piece. Let's just hope the deed is still there after all these years.” Applejack turned, following her brother inside only to stop after a few steps when she noticed she had lost the limp that had been troubling her for the last few hours. She looked back at the tree on her back, a perplexed expression on her face. “Bloomberg’s giving me a break for once... today sure is a strange one.”

Together, Twilight and Rainbow Dash looked out over the market, their eyes searching past the many, many different kinds of creatures and the equally numerous objects being sold. Twilight’s jaw hung open in awe while Rainbow Dash had a much more subdued expression, having long since grown accustomed to the sights and sounds of Ponyville’s open market.

The unicorn turned this way and that, gawking at the new and strange beings wandering through the open air market. Minotaurs wandered around mostly by themselves, glancing occasionally at the odd stand but mostly clustering around anything that advertised weapons or anything that required metalworking to construct.

A group of arachne skittered past them, talking animatedly and laughing at an unheard joke. Even the odd troll could be spotted throughout the crowd, usually lingering around any stand that sold rocks or food. Twilight chuckled. Rocks and food, now that was redundant.

She even caught a glimpse of some small, chitinous pony-like creatures that were clustered intently around a tall, smiling deer who was speaking animatedly to the group. His long sweeping gestures and intense facial expressions drew the crowd into whatever story he was telling.

What most surprised Twilight was the fact that most of the gathered beings seemed to ignore her. Though a few eyed her with fear and distrust, her aura seemed more subdued than usual, and so far there were no screams of panic. Perhaps the aura was dissipated over so many beings? Twilight put that thought away for now, focusing on just enjoying the fact that she hadn't caused a panic quite yet.

“What are those beings called?” Twilight asked, gesturing to the insectoid ponies with jagged black horns and small buzzing wings.

“Changelings. Now come on, I think I know where we can find Rarity.”

“But-”

Rainbow Dash didn't wait for whatever new question the egghead was going to ask and flew off towards the other end of the market, ducking and weaving past other airborne creatures with practiced ease. After coming around a larger tent she smirked, noticing the distinctive curls of the fashionista. “Found her! Right next to the fabric tent.”

When no reply came she turned to find her ground bound charge wasn't there. Sighing inwardly, the thestral crossed her hooves and waited, hovering a few feet off the ground.

Eventually the unicorn appeared, her eyes desperately searching for any sign of her rainbow-maned guide. Upon noticing the thestral, they grew narrow and she stomped over to the guard. “Don't do that! I could have gotten lost!”

Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow. “What, really? The market isn't that big. Heck, Cliffsdale’s is four times the size.”

Twilight blushed, only now realizing just how little she had ever left the house and thus how little she knew about such things as basic as what the normal size of a market was. “S-still!”

“Whatever, you're friend is over there.” She gestured over to where she had last seen the arachne. “Can we go already?”

“Fine, I just need to talk to her first.” The unicorn slipped through the crowd, finding no trouble maneuvering the packed market. Whether that was her aura, general distrust, or kindness, she wasn't sure.

It didn't take long for the pair to find the arachne as her height put her well over everyone save for the odd minotaur. Twilight continued walking towards the arachne, a greeting on her lips, only for a sudden scream to erupt from inside the tent. A terrified looking thestral draped in silk and her own long flowing white mane burst from the entrance. She didn't stop for a second, her wings carrying her out of the tent and straight in the other direction furthest from Twilight. The unicorn could hear her terrified scream for several long seconds as she flew into the night.

The unicorn rolled her eyes and waved at Rarity who was scratching her head and looking to where the strange thestral had flown off to. Suddenly noticing the waving unicorn she blinked, looking down at her newest friend.

“Hello darling, is this our escort?” The arachne asked, gesturing with a long spindly leg towards the thestral guard she had arrived with.

Said guard snorted. “Don't read into it.”

Twilight rolled her eyes. “Yes, she will be helping us with this little expedition. I also managed to get Applejack to help as well.”

Rarity clapped her hooves together triumphantly. “That's wonderful news! Any member of the Apple family is a good help when it comes to navigating the forest. Though I wish it was that strapping older brother of hers.”

“Oh, I didn't know you were into wolves, Rarity.” Rainbow Dash snickered.

Rarity tsked, tossing her mane dramatically. “I will have you know that Big Mac is a kind and gentle individual.” The archne smirked. “Besides, it's better than having a crush on a rabbit.”

Rainbow Dash’s face grew beet red. “I do not!”

Rarity giggled demurely behind a hoof, looking down at the fuming thestral with amusement. “Oh? I never said you did, darling.”

The thestral huffed indignantly. “Whatever, I’ll be waiting by the big spruce at the edge of town whenever you’re done wasting time.” The thestral turned and quickly disappeared into the crowd.

Twilight sighed and rubbed her temple, feeling a headache coming on. “So, what do we have left to buy? I forgot my gems, but I can go grab them if you like.”

“Oh, I already bought everything we need except the food, which is a nice bit of serendipity I must say.”

Twilight nodded. “Perfect. Next time I remember my gems don't forget to let me pay you back. I don't know how much all that stuff you bought was worth, but I’m sure it cost a pretty penny.”

“Penny?” Rarity scoffed. “Don't worry about paying darling. Think of this as payment for helping me find the silk and launching my business into a new age of success!”

Twilight frowned. “But we haven't found the silk yet. We haven't even left.”

“Your word is enough for me.” The arachne turned, revealing a large pack positively bursting with supplies resting on her arachnid back. “I have all the water, tents, candles and lanterns. Now, we had best hurry. Don't want our escort leaving without us, now would we?”

Twilight frowned but followed the arachne as she led them out of the market. Her mind was much too occupied thinking of how she would pay everyone back for what they’d done for her to bother listening to the few screams of terror that came from the crowd. Her mind so distant that she wasn't even aware of all the hushed whispering and pointing her presence garnered.

“Oh my, what has gotten into everyone today? Nightmare day isn't for another month.” Rarity remarked as she watched a mother minotaur desperately try to silence her screaming child.

Twilight sighed. “It's me, sorta.”

Rarity glanced down at the unicorn. “What are you talking about, darling? Why, you’re about as frightening as Fluttershy. No offence.”

The unicorn chuckled. “I’ll tell you and everyone else later, but long story short, it's part of that condition I mentioned earlier.”

The arachne frowned but didn't push the matter, instead focusing on maneuvering through the last of the crowd and towards the meeting point with the deft agility hey kind was known for. Rarity seemed to know exactly where the big spruce was after Twilight mentioned it, and she quickly led them to it.

Approaching the tree, Twilight could see Applejack standing next to a large basket of apples sitting on a small cart set beside her, a stem sticking out of her mouth and a thoughtful expression on her face. The tree bound pony was staring off into space, her eyes slightly glazed over as she looked in the general direction of the castle, her mind clearly elsewhere. Rainbow Dash was nowhere to be found but something told Twilight she was nearby, waiting for them to arrive, perhaps even sitting in the massive splayed branches of the large spruce Applejack was standing next to.

“Hello darling, how is the farm this time of year?”

Applejack seemed to snap back to reality, spitting the stem out of her mouth and smirking at the approaching arachne.

“Rarity, is that you? I never woulda guessed you'd be the type to go and get your hooves dirty with this kinda thing.”

The arachne scoffed. “If the rewards are worth it, even a lady must be ready to get a little dirty.” The eight legged being shivered, a scowl crossing her face. “Even if she finds such an act utterly repulsive.”

The farmer chuckled, maneuvering into place so she could hitch herself back up to the cart. “Well, y'all ready to go? I got everything in order and we should be good for about a week or so.”

Twilight nodded. “Yup, everything is set. I just wanted to meet up with Fluttershy and stop by Zecora’s one final time.”

“Good thinking. Fluttershy’s expertise in all things animals and Pinkie’s potions would really help on such a dangerous endeavor.” Rarity remarked.

“Pfft, you don't need all that. You got me after all.” Rainbow Dash said with a scoff.

The rest of the party rolled their eyes but continued into the forest, conversation flowing surprisingly easily for a group of individuals who either just met or were never anything more than mere passing acquaintances. Twilight herself felt surprisingly relaxed in the presence of her new friends, her years of social awkwardness and very insular existence almost forgotten during the few minutes they walked together through the forest.

A thought struck her suddenly while the rest of her new friends were talking about the rumours that floated around the old castle. Would she leave the forest, if she could? The thought was odd and her first reaction was to think yes, of course she would.

But as she watched her new friends talk and laugh at some of the more absurd superstitions, Twilight couldn't help but wonder if she really could go through with leaving them.

She had never felt like she belonged anywhere before. Sure, her mother and brother gave her something to hang onto and in their presence she did genuinely feel as though she belonged. But with her mother gone, would that feeling remain? Was there anything truly left for her in Canterlot other than a broken family?

She shook her head. She had a brother that loved her, a sibling that may be going through gods only knew what at this very moment. But if he could be rescued, would they stay in Canterlot? Could they even do such a thing?

Thoughts of bringing her brother back to the forest to live their lives in peace with the menagerie of other creatures that made the forest their home was an endearing one, and for a moment the unicorn considered abandoning her plans of vengeance entirely. A second later the image of her mother’s agonized features flashed through her mind and all such thoughts of peace vanished in an instant. She would never know peace until Celestia and Sunset were dealt with, permanently.

As her thoughts turned dark, she felt an energy rise within her, and a second later she suddenly felt… relief. A strange and sudden wave of relief washed over her, and a haze suddenly lifted from her mind.

“Wait a sec, you girls feel that?” Applejack remarked, rubbing the back of her neck. “Felt like a chill was in the air for a second there.”

Rarity frowned. “Really darling, if you needed to borrow a scarf I could have grabbed one for you.”

Applejack rolled her eyes. “Not like that. It was like a cold draft... like someone walked over your grave or somethin’.”

Rainbow Dash shrugged. “You need to stop listening to the old stories yer granny tells ya.”

“Hey! My granny’s stories ain't all hogwash.” Rarity placed a hoof and looked into the farmer’s eyes with a weary expression, making her visibly wilt. “Okay, so what if some are a little far fetched? It don't hurt no one.”

“Darling, wasn't she the one yelling last week about the day lasting forever?”

Applejack huffed. “Fine, maybe she’s had a few screws come loose with age, but she's a hundred and six! I’d like to see you lot stay lucid after all that time.”

Twilight chuckled. “No one is insulting Granny Smith. We’re just saying that maybe you should take her stories with a grain of salt.”

The farm pony sighed. “Yeah, yeah. Let's just hope Fluttershy is near her tree.”

The party grew quiet as they made the last leg of their journey towards Fluttershy’s grove, each member keeping an eye open for the elusive spirit and any dangerous beasty that may wander their way. It didn't take long for the group to begin to feel as though they were being watched, and soon they could see several animals sitting along the path or on the branches above, scrutinizing the group as they made their way closer to Fluttershy’s peaceful grove. Even the small, easily startled creatures that had been terrified of Twilight only a day earlier seemed remarkably calm around the unicorn. Though even then, they did seem to eye the mare with more suspicion than the rest of her companions.

As the edge of Fluttershy’s grove came into view, they were stopped by several bunnies standing across the path, their shoulders squared and steel in their eyes. The companions would have been quite intimidated by the bunny’s resolve if they weren't less than a foot tall and utterly adorable.

Applejack stepped forward with a friendly smile, leaning down to the bunny’s level, her knees cracking audibly as she did. “Excuse me little fellers, we were looking for Fluttershy. Y'all know where we can find her?”

The center bunny, whom everyone recognized as Angel took a step forward and held up a paw and tapped his wrist. “Uh, you girls know what he's trying to say? I never was good at charades.” Applejack remarked, standing back up and taking a step back.

Twilight cocked her head. “But you always seem to know what Big Mac is saying, and he doesn't even speak.”

The farm pony shrugged, sending the tree on her back shaking. “Big Mac’s an easy read.”

“I’m pretty sure he's telling us to wait here.” Rainbow Dash added, much to Angel’s visible relief.

“Err, alright...” Twilight looked around awkwardly, only now realizing just how many animals were watching them, and her especially.

A pair of eagles sat further up the branches, looking almost straight down at her with what could only be described as confusion on their feathery features. A small group of squirrels and other equally tiny creatures huddled further away, half hidden behind a tree trunk, their miniscule heads just barely poking around the sides and staring at Twilight with fear in their eyes.

All around her, the animals of the forest came to look on at the companions in a mixture of curiosity and fear. Though Rainbow Dash seemed nonplussed by the entire experience, Rarity, Applejack and Twilight were more than a little put off by such an assembly of animals, almost all of which held various levels of interest in the gathered beings.

Twilight gulped, trying to ignore the glaring animals while Applejack seemed to have grown more amused than anything.

Rarity’s eyes went wide. “Oh, look at you! Aren't you beautiful! Such coloration, such poise!”

Rarity skittered a little closer to the branch where a large purple and gold bird sat. It’s expression was unreadable and it's large wings were tucked firmly against its side. As the arachne drew close, the bird opened its wings slightly, seemingly striking a pose for the fawning spider pony.

“Oh I absolutely must make a note of your colors. They would make for a beautiful dress, or perhaps even just a scarf, or a hat!” Rarity pulled a notebook from one of her many bags and began scratching down various notes.

“Oh um, hello girls. Am I interrupting something?” A small, familiar voice asked. Instantly the companions all turned to the source of the voice, making the owl blush and hide behind a wing.

“Did you borrow Owlicious?” Twilight asked.

The owl waved a wing nervously. “Yes. It seems as though no one else had the courage to come to the castle with you except this brave little owl.”

“D’aww.” Twilight trotted over and nuzzled the owl, which drew a confused blush to the spirit’s body.

Applejack pushed up her hat and scratched her head. “Wait a second. How’d y'all know we were going to the old castle?”

Fluttershy giggled. “My friends told me. It seems like a few of them decided to follow Twilight around after getting spooked.”

“Are you sure you want to come with us? It might be dangerous…” Twilight added.

The owl nodded firmly. “Owlicious wants to come with you, and I want to support my friends.”

Twilight nuzzled the owl again. “Thanks you two.”

Rainbow Dash huffed. “Alright, break it up. We better get moving if we want to camp before sunrise.”

“Err, right.” Twilight took a step back, allowing the owl to fly over and rest on Rainbow Dash’s shoulder, much to the thestral’s delight.

Together the four companions set out for the last stop before they began their journey. Their animal watchers slowly petered off, breaking away and going back to whatever they were doing before, much to Twilight’s relief.

With Fluttershy and Applejack’s expert guidance, they quickly found their way onto Pinkie Pie’s trail, allowing the group to relax slightly, no longer having to worry about any roving monsters accidentally wandering into their path. As they traipsed quietly through the woods, Twilight’s mind began to wander again and she couldn't help but wonder why just so many animals had approached her.

Sure she felt more energized after leaving Zecora’s, but the people in the market had still been scared of her. But then her anger had flared up, and after that her fear aura seemed to have dissipated. Had she been accidentally absorbing energy from the plants around her?

Too many questions swirled within the unicorn’s mind, and not nearly enough answers. Reluctantly, she put aside the mess of questions and pushed them completely from her mind, making a note to experiment with her powers when they settled down for camp.

Evidently she had been thinking for longer than she first thought, as the group were now nearing Zecora’s hut, the familiar smell of the shaman’s home borne aloft on the soft wind. Twilight could hear the bubble of a cauldron and the faint drone of a chant as they approached the strange home.

At first she had thought it was Zecora’s voice due to the strange language it was speaking, but as they drew close to the zebra’s house, the group spotted Pinkie dancing an awkward three legged dance before the cauldron. Her voice grew more distinct as they approached her, though the language she was speaking was clearly not one any of them knew, judging from the confused expressions on the five being’s faces. Rainbow Dash moved to the door but Twilight held her back, holding a hoof to her lips. “Shhh, wait a second.”

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes but did as she was told, standing back and waiting for Pinkie Pie’s dance to end. Sure enough, it didn't take long for the three legged troll to stop suddenly, her chest heaving and her body slick with sweat.

“Whoo-wee, that was a tough one! I sure hope this batch turns out better than the last.” She commented while wiping the sweat from her brow. The companions could also hear the faint sound of snoring through the wood.

Rainbow Dash knocked on the door. “Hey Pinkie, you in there?” She called out.

“That's them! I’m so excited!” the troll bounced over to the door before throwing it open and wrapping Rainbow Dash in a one legged hug. “Hiya, Dashie!”

“Hey Pinks,” Rainbow Dash replied, pushing the affectionate troll to hoof length.

“Oh wow, you brought everyone!” Pinkie smiled. “Great work, Twilight!”

Twilight frowned. “Uh yeah, thanks.”

“What's wrong, sugarcube?”

The unicorn rubbed the back of her neck awkwardly. “I just can't help but worry that I’m putting all of you in danger.”

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “Pshaw, you’ve got me.”

Twilight sighed. “Still, it doesn't feel right to do all this just because I want answers.”

Applejack chuckled and threw a hoof around Twilight’s shoulder. “Relax Twilight, most of us are here for our own reasons, stuff we had wanted to do but never did ‘cus we had no one to help us. Why, Rarity here was telling me about her wanting to figure out that ancient silk banner of hers. I need to find something for myself. Rainbow Dash is apparently here just to whine and grandstand, and Fluttershy is too kind for her own good.”

Rarity wilted a little. “Well, when you put it like that it doesn't sound very flattering. I really do want to help.”

“Aw shucks, Rares. I'm not saying ya don't, or that anyone else doesn't wanna help. I’m just saying that most of us are here in order to help each other.”

“That is a nice way of putting it.” Fluttershy remarked.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “I’m just here on orders, not ‘cus I want to help.”

“Yeah, whatever sugar cube.” Rainbow Dash huffed and looked away, drawing a chuckle from the companions.

Pinkie Pie wiped away a single tear. “I really wish I could join you girls, but I gotta wait for righty to grow back. Buuuut, I did make you some potions that should help!” Before Twilight could try and say no, the pink troll had already pushed a bag filled with bottles into the unicorn’s hooves. “That one there is for bug bites, it's an ointment. That ones for poison joke, you gotta drink it. One for devil thorns, which is another ointment, aaaand…!” She disappeared in a flash and returned a second later with three jars filled with a thick reddish liquid. “Some grade-A health potions!”

“I, er, wow... thank you, Pinkie!” Twilight remarked, quickly stowing the bag of potions in her saddlebags.

“Thanks Pinks.” Rainbow Dash added.

Applejack tipped her hat. “Thank you kindly.”

“Well said, Applejack!” Rarity added, throwing the troll a heartfelt smile.

Pinkie Pie blushed. “D’aw, it's nothing. Just want to make sure my friends are okay.”

Twilight sniffed, wiping a single tear from her eye. “It's not nothing, Pinkie. Thank you.”

The unicorn reached out and pulled the troll into a tight hug, one which Pinkie eagerly reciprocated without hesitation or reservation. Twilight squeezed her tightly before reluctantly letting go. “Thanks again Pinkie, once we find what we’re looking for, I’ll come back and tell you all about it.”

Rainbow Dash tapped her hoof impatiently. “Alright, come on. Hurry up you slowpokes, it's going to be morning soon.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Twilight remarked before giving Pinkie one last hug. “Bye Pinkie Pie.”

The troll blinked, feeling an odd warmth spread through her. “Err, yeah. Later, girls.”

She stood in silence as the other companions said their goodbyes and headed off, too distracted by the strange feeling of warmth and new energy suddenly coursing through her. When her friends were finally out of sight she looked down at her stump leg where the feeling of warmth had slowly begun to center on. She waved around the few inches of leg she had left, wondering what exactly was happening.

Shaking off the odd feeling, she finally turned and closed the door.

If you guys wouldnt mind giving me your thoughts on another new project of mine I would apreciate it! https://www.fimfiction.net/story/407008/the-only-way-forward

Thanks Kuunlethi for the proofread. If anyone else finds anything wrong with the story lemme know below!
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