Twilight hummed thoughtfully as she gazed out over the worn ancient scroll which rested upon her desk. The spell described within the aged parchment wasn't terribly difficult, but like seemingly every necromancy spell, it had its subtle complications. It also wasn't a very useful spell in Twilight’s opinion, as it was intended to make the caster become a beacon of necrotic energy. This would ultimately draw any nearby undead to her, and if she focused, allow her to heal their rotten flesh.

Two things she didn't ever plan on doing, but given the structure of the school the spell was a part of, it was necessary to learn. Plus if Twilight was being honest with herself, she didn't even really care how useful the spell itself was. It was a bit of knowledge seemingly lost to the ages, forgotten by all save for maybe her new shadow, but that was debatable given its limited intelligence.

And this ancient spell known by none was hers, and hers alone with the unicorn holding sole ownership of magic that no one else could even cast. That realization made the dead mare feel a little giddy, and she couldn't help but grin as she gazed out over the spell one final time. Twilight thought about what she should do next and, after a moment of consideration, decided to test her newly memorized spell.

Twilight tried not to look at the strange unlight that emanated from her horn, or ponder the fact that it was somehow brighter and more vibrant than usual. Moving through the steps, Twilight allowed the spell to flow through her, prompting her to kneel down. As the spell built she slowly stood, until finally it was complete and she extended a hoof toward the heavens.

The spell fired and seemed to work correctly, though it had little actual effect other than making Twilight’s skin feel a little more sensitive for a few seconds.

“Kinda tingly,” Twilight muttered.

Shaking off that strange feeling, Twilight glanced out the window and looked down from the second story of her library to the dark streets of Ponyville, where creatures of all shapes and sizes went about their business, some of whom stopped and glanced up at Twilight’s home with wide, curious eyes. The sight brought a smile to Twilight’s face, and she waved to a passing thestral mare who had caught her eye. The mare blushed profusely and quickly scurried away, smiling as she disappeared into a nearby crowd.

“Is something on my face?” Twilight whispered to herself.

She blinked and glanced at her reflection in a nearby mirror, only to find the same sight she always beheld. Sure she had begun to look more… alive than usual, and she wasn't quite as thin, but it wasn't that big of a difference. The thought that someone might like her made Twilight feel strange, as if she had swallowed a dozen butterflies, or perhaps a bowl of maggots.

Shuddering, Twilight walked over to the scroll and gave it another look, confirming that she had indeed followed it perfectly. “It's a good thing I mastered that domination spell or I would have never been able to cast this one,” she exclaimed, before looking around the room. “Now what do I do?”

When the empty room did not give her a response, Twilight sighed. “I suppose I should talk to Pinkie Pie. I’ve put this conversation off for long enough,” she muttered to herself. “Though I should probably check up on Spike first before I go anywhere.”

The pony stopped mid-step. “Also, I have to stop talking to myself.”

Shaking her head, Twilight trotted out of the room and was about to descend to the main level when she heard someone humming in the room below her. Pausing at the top of the stairs, Twilight peeked over the ledge to find Spike sweeping the floor while singing to himself. Though describing what he was doing as sweeping was a bit of a stretch, as the dragon was actually dancing with the broom.

That's adorable, thought Twilight as she watched him swing this way and that, humming his strange tune while dancing with the broom.

The dragon spun his bristled partner around and then dropped it into a brief dip, before falling silent.

“Bravo!” Twilight shouted while clapping her hooves.

Spike blinked and looked up to where Twilight stood, an enormous blush spreading across his face. “D-D-Dusk? How long have you been standing there?” Spike shouted, his voice squeaking at the end.

Twilight chuckled as she trotted down the steps. “Not long, just enough to see your grand finale. Let me tell you, if you pulled that off with Sweetie Belle she would absolutely fall head over heels for you.”

Spike blushed even harder and clutched the broom tight against his chest. “I don't know about that. It wasn't that good.”

“I disagree, but regardless. How did things go the other day? You never told me,” Twilight exclaimed, before plopping down on the couch.

“Oh uh right. I guess the whole farm thing kind of overshadowed my own little adventure,” Spike murmured before sitting down across from the pony.

“So, how did it go? I assume it went well, considering the good mood you’ve been in,” Twilight pointed out.

“Yeah, I guess you could say that,” Spike mused.

“Well, go on,” Twilight urged.

“There isn't much to tell, I took her for a short date, bought her ice cream and then put the moves on her,” Spike exclaimed while leaning back on his chair.

“Really? ‘Cause Chrysalis tells it another way,” Twilight retorted with a smirk.

Spike grumbled and crossed his arms over his chest. “Well, after that changeling left, I put the moves on her.”

“Who says Chrysalis ever did?” Twilight replied.

Spike threw up his hands in defeat. “Fine, I was awkward as heck, but it all worked out. Is that what you wanted to hear?”

“Relax, I’m just teasing you, Spike. You’ve already done more than I ever have,” Twilight stated.

“Really? But aren't you like, way older than me?” Spike inquired.

“I mean, sort of. What are you, seventeen?”

Spike nodded. “I think so? They might have added a month to the calendar at one point so I’m not actually sure anymore.”

“Then I’m not actually that much older than you. But I suppose dying and reliving parts of your past life has a way of aging someone,” Twilight mused.

“Yeah no kidding. Say, how is that going by the way? I heard you casting spells earlier.”

Twilight nodded. “Necromancy is not the easiest school of magic to grasp, but I’ve been told I’m learning much faster than anyone else, though it certainly doesn't feel like it. But enough about me, does this mean that you and Sweetie Belle are, you know… an item?”

“An item? Who says that? That was old when I was young,” Spike retorted.

“Spike, you're not even an adult yet. You’re not allowed to say stuff like ‘when I was young’,” Twilight pointed out.

“You know what I mean.”

Twilight rolled her eyes. “That doesn't answer my question.”

The dragon sighed and twiddled his thumbs. “I don't know, maybe? We’ve been hanging out a lot and we kiss sometimes.”

“Daww, that's adorable.”

Spike puffed out his cheeks. “And what about you missy, what have you been up to?”

Twilight shrugged. “Not much. Just practicing, hanging out with the girls, and trying to think of how best to help Pinkie Pie.”

“I don't know, that girl seems to actually have her stuff together,” Spike exclaimed.

“It seemed like Rarity and Applejack did as well,” Twilight countered.

“I mean I guess. But anyone could see that the farm wasn't exactly in the best place,” Spike muttered.

“I suppose that is true. Regardless, I’m still going to try at least. It would be nice if I could do something for her,” Twilight stated.

“Other than bring her all the weird bricks she can eat,” Spike replied.

“True. I guess I won’t find out until I talk to her,” Twilight announced before rising from her seat.

“Have you thought of helping Fluttershy or Rainbow Dash first? ‘Cause no offence to Flutters, but something definitely feels wrong there,” Spike asked.

Twilight frowned. “I have a few ideas, but I’ll admit that I’ve been putting that one off. Her condition is so unique, and there is so little written about creatures like her that I’m a little hesitant to offer my assistance.”

“Well then it's a good thing you're going to see Pinkie Pie. I bet her or Zecora would know something on the topic. Hey, maybe Zecora has some pointers to offer on your necromancy practice,” Spike offered, the dragon rising from his own seat and following Twilight to the door.

“Yeah, maybe. She sure is mysterious,” Twilight muttered.

“Hey, do you think she's a time traveler or something?” Spike inquired.

“Ha, I doubt that. Though it would explain how she's so knowledgeable.” Twilight shook her head. “Regardless, I should probably get moving if I want to be back before sunrise.”

“It's so weird that that's normal,” Spike mused.

“Yeah it kind of is, isn't it? Everything just feels backwards,” Twilight agreed.

“Anyway, I’ll see ya later, and don't worry about me. I was just planning on doing some studying, gotta catch up with the times, ya know?” Spike declared a little too loudly.

“Right, the times.” Twilight chuckled. “Just make sure to have her home before I get back. I do not want to get another earful from Rarity about you two staying out early, understood?”

“Oh come on, this time I really was planning on studying!” Spike exclaimed, throwing up his hands.

“Right, sure you were,” Twilight remarked before turning and walking to the door.

“I hope you trip and fall in a river,” Spike muttered.

“And I hope you get splinters after making out with the broom,” Twilight retorted, glancing at the dragon over her shoulder.

The two beings stared one another down for several seconds before both erupting with laughter.

Spike grinned. “Good luck.”

“You too, lover boy,” Twilight offered in return before turning and slipping out the door.

“Watch out,” cautioned the guard.

Twilight paused mid-step and looked down to where a small bouquet of flowers sat on her doorstep. Leaning in closer, Twilight was able to see that it was filled with flowers that were native to Ponyville and Ponyville alone. They were also housed in a slim, crystalline container that had been partially filled with a thick, greenish liquid.

The flowers werent as bright as the ones Twilight had grown up with, but the dark plants did have a unique majesty all their own. Together they resembled the night sky, with soft purples and deep blues creating an almost perfect recreation of the heavens above. Though undeniably beautiful, they were also quite confusing to the sheltered mare who looked down on them apprehensively.

“Why are they here?” Twilight asked, turning to the guard who stood outside her home.

He raised an eyebrow in response. “It's a gift. Someone wanted to thank you for something. That arrangement is usually reserved for an impersonal sign of thanks, by the way.”

“Which means… what exactly?” Twilight pressed.

“It's the same kind you may deliver to your doctor, or the individual who teaches your children. Something like that,” elaborated the short, stocky young thestral stallion. “It's not poisonous by the way.”

“Err right. I should bring these inside,” Twilight muttered, nervously taking the flowers in her magic before ducking back into the library.

And meeting a confused Spike. “I thought you were leaving.”

“I was, but then I was given this,” Twilight replied, gesturing to the flowers.

“Oh wow, those are really pretty. You must have really done something nice for someone,” Spike continued, taking the flowers from Twilight’s grasp and placing them on a nearby window sill.

“I guess I did,” Twilight murmured before turning back around once more and stepping back outside. “Excuse me, was there a note with the flowers?”

The guard shook his head, inadvertently revealing that his helmet didn't quite fit. “No, but she did mention that she appreciated what you’ve been doing for people and that she wished to apologize for judging you too harshly. Even if it was only from a distance.”

“Wait, she?” Twilight asked, her mind conjuring images of the random thestral mare she had seen out the window a few minutes ago. “Augh, I should have been paying more attention to what she looked like.”

“She was pretty cute, to be honest.” The guard coughed. “A little heavier and shorter than most, put she had a really nice smile.”

Twilight hummed thoughtfully, the nervous, blushy smile of the thestral mare coming to mind. “Huh, well, that's uh… weird,” Twilight muttered.

“Oh and before I forget, there was someone lurking around the exterior of the library earlier today. I wasn't able to track them down, and though I don't think it's anything menacing, I just thought you should be aware,” added the guard.

“I appreciate it.” Twilight blinked. “This is all so strange.”

“Oh yes and Braeburn, Applejack’s cousin came down and offered his assistance should you ever require it,” the guard added.

“Why didn't you let him in?” Twilight questioned.

“You were both asleep,” replied the guard. “I didn't think it was that urgent.”

“Oh well, in that case thank you. Is he staying at the farm?” Twilight continued.

“For the next week or so I believe.”

“That's…” Twilight shook her head. “I’m just so blown away.”

“Why? You’ve helped one of the most beloved families and shop owners in Ponyville,” the guard stated before gesturing to the library itself. “And you’ve brought back the Tree of Knowledge, something that most considered to be merely a legend from a bygone era.”

“Well, I mean it's not like it's helping the town that much right now. The books found within have to be carefully screened by the guard and approved one by one,” Twilight retorted.

“Regardless. People have taken note of what you’ve been doing and have begun to consider you something of a local hero,” the guard replied.

“I don't…” Twilight’s initial reaction was to finish that sentence by stating she didn't believe him, but the evidence was staring her right in the face. Furthermore, all she had to do was turn her head and she could see that some of the passersby looked at her with a twinge of awe.

“I guess so,” Twilight whispered.

The guard laughed and patted Twilight on the back with an armored hoof. “Don't look too happy! Wouldn't want anyone to think the fame is going to your head,” he declared.

“I am not letting it go to my… Oh, you're being sarcastic,” Twilight muttered.

“I told you you're well-loved and you look like I just informed you your dog died. Do you not like people or something?” inquired the guard, raising an eyebrow and glancing at the unicorn curiously.

“Up until I came here I didn't have friends, and now suddenly people actually like me.” Twilight shook her head. “It's just a lot to take in.”

“Well, get used to it. ‘Cause unless you do something crazy, I got a feeling you're only going to get more famous,” stated the thestral.

“Huh,” Twilight murmured before beginning to trot away, so at a loss for words that she couldn't even mutter a goodbye to the stallion.

It took the unicorn a few minutes of wandering before she remembered why she left the house in the first place, but when she did, Twilight had to turn right around. Now with a clear direction in mind, the pony contemplated the information she had just been given as she trotted through town. Information that became more and more true each time she passed someone who gave her a small nod or smile, conveying the fact that they knew of her.

The default response she had gotten when first entering town was one of dispassionate rejection. Yet now they seemed to have warmed up to her quite a bit, unnerving the pony almost more than when they disliked her. It was an odd feeling to say the least, though as Twilight made her way across town, she began to grow appreciative of the change. It made the town feel more like home than even the building she had grown up in, and by the time Twilight reached the outskirts of Ponyville, she had a wide smile on her face.

“I wonder how long this has been going on, and I didn't even notice?” mused the mare, shaking her head. “Contemplate that later, now is not the time.”

Making her way into the forest, what little trappings of civilization quickly fall away, replaced by the wild, untamed nature that was the Everfree Forest. A transition that had at first been jarring, given how quick it happened, but now was oddly comforting, and to Twilight felt a lot like how walking to Applejack’s did. Though there were a few scattered paths, and some signs that someone had passed through the area recently, the forest quickly grew thick and snuffed out any sight of other travelers.

Walking a little further, Twilight was able to find a small hollow surrounded by bushes which would obscure her from the sight of any possible passersby. She briefly considered going deeper into the forest before enacting the ritual, but to do so would be dangerous. After all, she was being hunted by someone or something, and though she was confident she didn't need Rainbow Dash’s help, she did require some kind of assistance.

And so she carved a set of interlocking symbols bound within a circle with her hoof in the soft wet ground. Though the simple dirt circle wasn't exactly the most powerful, it didn't need to be for the spell to work properly. She had a solid working knowledge of the magic, and the circle would give her the extra oomph she would need to ensure it went off without a hitch.

Upon completion, she gazed down at her work and smiled faintly, confident that it was the best it could be given how much time she had spent on it. With that done, Twilight lit her horn and began to cast the spell she had spent most of her day practicing. When it was done, she turned and cast the spell not up like the scroll had said to do, but down and into the sigil she had carved into the earth.

The rune absorbed the magical energies and seemed to increase their potency, for when the magic was released for a second time the energy was far greater than anticipated. In fact it was so large that Twilight stumbled back, a little baffled by the eruption of blackened smoke which poured forth from the ground. The smoke billowed through the leaves of the surrounding trees, surging into the sky and creating a cloud which hung over the hollow, obscuring it in darkness.

“That's not good,” Twilight murmured. “I didn't mean to make it that powerful.”

Her train of thought was cut off when a chorus of howls suddenly sprung up from somewhere in the distance. Almost immediately Twilight could feel the familiar pull that she always sensed when a timberwolf was nearby. Only this time it was different, there were more of them, at least a small pack’s worth, and Twilight wasn't certain her domination spell would work on all of them.

“If the call was more powerful, the turn undead spell should be as well,” Twilight hoped, the mare already gathering power as she waited for the wolves to heed her call.

The interim didn't last long as the sound of crashing footfalls quickly began to echo from all around her. As they closed in, Twilight could feel a bit of fear worm its way into her heart, but the necromancer quickly stamped it out. This spell required her to be confident in order for it to work, and Twilight refused to die by her own hoof.

A few seconds later a trio of large wooden wolves burst into the hollow, their gazes locked on Twilight. The centermost one stood taller than the rest, its bulky size nearly dwarfing the two others. This wolf leader also seemed tougher than the others, as it had more bark covering its exterior. The bark seemed almost a little redish for some reason.

The one which stood to its right was thinner, more angular, and was covered in a purplish moss of some kind. It also had longer claws, and seemed lighter than the other two. Leafy growths sprouted from its back. The final wolf was just barely taller than the center one, now that Twilight really looked, and it too was more angular than it. Stranger still were the large white mushrooms which grew all over its form, including its face where a rather large one sprouted from between its eyes like a horn.

The centermost timberwolf growled low and slowly stepped forward, its gaze remaining fixed on Twilight. Shaking off the bit of surprise, she breathed deep, stared it down for several seconds before releasing her spell. The effect was immediate, and the timberwolves’ eyes went from green to a deep magenta, nearly mimicking the coloration of Twilight’s own.

As soon as that happened, the wooden creatures relaxed visibly, with the leader yawning and lying down while its fellows looked around curiously. Twilight blinked, watching as the tall, mushroom-covered wolf wandered over to her before sniffing the unicorn. They were clearly very different, in both appearance and action, nevermind how intelligent they seemed to be. It took all of Twilight’s willpower to not abandon her mission and spend the rest of her night studying these unique creatures.

“We got a job to do,” Twilight murmured before straightening her spine and standing tall.

The wolves jumped to attention, as if waiting for an order from their new leader.

“Stay close, watch my back, and alert me to any threats,” Twilight commanded, looking from one wolf to the other. “Got it?”

The undead creatures nodded.

“Good. Now let's go, something tells me this is going to be a long night,” Twilight murmured.

The wolves turned and formed a V around the mare, protecting her flanks, with the more bulky wolf taking point once more. Twilight made a note to study these particular wolves when she had the chance, as they were definitely more intelligent than the others Twilight had seen. For now though, their intelligence just meant that the pony had more adept guards than she had anticipated, and that she could breathe a bit easier knowing that.

Emerging into a somewhat more orderly section of the forest, Twilight hopped over a fallen log and leaned against a tree before plucking a bur from her hoof. Grimacing in pain, she then lifted her other forehoof and wrenched a thorn that had become embedded within it. Tossing both aside, Twilight muttered angrily to herself, though she was internally quite glad that she didn't seem to have any blood as it likely would have attracted predators.

“That is the last time I’m following your advice, Red,” Twilight exclaimed while glaring at the largest timberwolf.

Who blinked and cocked its head in confusion.

“Ahh nevermind. White, you're in charge of guiding me from here on out,” Twilight commanded.

The mushroom-covered wolf seemed to grin and stand a little taller, as if flaunting its newfound status over the other wolves. Who both seemed a little annoyed at the tall thin wolf and glowered silently at it in protest.

Twilight gave her legs a brief once over before looking around. “Alright, now where are we?”

The mushroom-covered wolf pointed its nose east, to where the trees grew thick and the undergrowth was plentiful. A sight which initially irritated twilight, who was already regretting having to make her way through it, only for her spirits to immediately lighten. For one of the trees was a warding totem, one that would keep away most mundane threats, and marked this area as one protected by a shaman.

It was also a tree Twilight remembered, though it was in a different position than the last time she had seen it. The forest was strange though so some manner of confusion and odd circumstances were to be expected.

“Keep a perimeter, and make sure nothing hostile is able to enter the area around the house,” Twilight exclaimed.

The wolves all bowed briefly before running off, all save for the largest wolf who turned around and plopped down. Twilight glanced at it for a moment, noting that it seemed to be focused on something, though Twilight didn't know what. Shrugging that off for now, Twilight used her magic to push her way through the thick plant life and into the clearing beyond.

Looking around, Twilight found herself in the secluded area of the woods claimed by Zecora and her young apprentice. The undergrowth was mercifully short, and not overly thick, allowing Twilight to easily make her way towards the center. Where a short, squat tree grew, as if from the stump of some far larger and far more ancient plant. It had been hollowed out and made to serve as a home of sorts for the eclectic shaman and her student.

The strange masks, hanging bottles of potions, and many odd, foreign flora Twilight had come to expect were all there. Though there was one thing that was off, namely the thick black smoke that poured out of the open door and two windows. Twilight was about to sprint towards the structure, only for something to caution her not to do so. She lit her horn.

Approaching the house, Twilight felt as though she was ready for anything, only to be surprised when Pinkie Pie popped out of the ground. “Hiya Twilight!” shouted the troll.

“Ahhh!” Twilight screamed before rearing up and then falling onto her back, magic sputtering out.

Pinkie Pie loomed over the fallen pony. “I didn't think I was that scary. I don't have another tarantula on my face, do I?”

Twilight blinked. “Uh no. I was just surprised, is all.”

“Well, that's silly, because you were the one that totally surprised us! What with those wolves and all. I thought we were under attack for a second there,” Pinkie Pie replied, offering the unicorn a hoof in assistance.

“Thanks,” Twilight muttered before accepting the limb and getting roughly pulled up. “Was that why you were hiding?”

A nearby mask twisted into a familiar face and Zecora stepped out of the shadows. “A trap was seeded, though it was not needed,” declared the zebra.

Twilight frowned as she gazed upon the aged zebra closely. “Ah, so what's with the smoke?” Twilight asked, gesturing to the tree.

Pinkie Pie winced and rubbed the back of her neck awkwardly. “That may have been a teensy weensy bit my fault.”

Zecora merely stared at the pony and slowly raised a single eyebrow.

“Okay, so it was all my fault. I said I was sorry,” Pinkie Pie exclaimed, shrinking slightly.

“It is quite alright my young learner, I should know not to trust you with the burner,” Zecora replied.

Twilight grinned. “And Righty is back. That's great to see.”

Pinkie Pie blinked and looked down at her now fully regrown limb. “Oh yeah. And it finally stopped being tingly too.”

“Well, that's great, but isn't your house kind of on fire?” Twilight inquired, turning to Zecora.

Who shook her head. “There will be no permanent damage, though cleaning will be quite the challenge.”

“Don't worry, boss lady. I’ll handle it,” Pinkie Pie proclaimed.

“There is no harm you can do with soap. Or at least, that is my hope,” Zecora stated before ushering the pair over towards a small grassy spot nestled at the base of two large trees which stood across from one another.

The troll and pony followed diligently, seating themselves on pads of moss which seemed to have been grown for just such an occasion. Twilight found herself surprisingly at ease once she sat down, and she watched as the shaman and her apprentice did likewise.

“I would offer you tea, but I don't know how long this will be,” Zecora exclaimed, waving a hoof at her home.

“That's quite alright. I’m actually not here on a social visit,” Twilight stated.

“I figured. You got that look that you only seem to get when you got a mission in mind,” Pinkie Pie declared with a knowing grin.

Twilight blushed slightly. “Yes, well I was hoping I could ask Zecora a few questions before I got to that.”

The zebra blinked. “Oh, and what exactly did you have in mind? I hope you are not in another bind.”

Twilight shook her head. “Nothing like that. I just had a few general questions I was hoping you could answer. Like for example, are there any other tidbits of wisdom you can cryptically give me?”

“Depending on the question, I may be more inclined to grant a cession,” Zecora replied coyly, grinning slightly.

Pinkie Pie giggled. “The master teaser is at it again.”

Twilight narrowed her gaze and shifted uncomfortably on her seat of moss. “I admit I don't really know what the right question might be. I don't suppose you have any suggestions for me?”

“Hmm, I suppose I could offer you one. Though after that I will be done,” Zecora warned.

“Err alright. Fire away, I suppose,” Twilight murmured.

“Hatred will leave you blind, in a moment when you will need to be kind,” Zecora exclaimed.

Twilight frowned. “Someone else said something similar, but I can't remember who said that all of a sudden.”

“Neat. I wonder if it's gonna be one of those times where you only realize how useful the suggestion is after the fact?” Pinkie Pie mused aloud, tapping her chin thoughtfully.

Twilight rolled her eyes. “Either way. I’m sure it will only come to me after everything is said and done.”

“That is true of all advice, for such realizations come at a price,” Zecora proclaimed.

Twilight blinked. “I never thought about it like that, but yeah, you're totally right.”

“So did ya come all that way just to get some spooky advice or was this just an excuse to see my cute face?” Pinkie Pie asked, the troll squishing her cheeks and fluttering her eyelashes.

Twilight chuckled and shook her head. “It's like you said. I had a mission in mind. One that I was hoping you could help me with.”

Zecora nodded. “You are here to offer aid, for you feel a debt must be repaid.”

The unicorn winced. “When you say it like that, it seems almost rude.”

“Aid, debt, what are you two talking about?” Pinkie Pie inquired.

Twilight shuffled a bit to her right in order to face the troll fully. “You’ve helped me when you didn't need to, and without asking for anything in return. I want to give you something back, to help in some manner, if possible.”

Pinkie Pie blinked owlishly. “What are you talking about?”

“You know, with the whole castle thing and helping me learn about myself. Directing me to Zecora,” Twilight explained, only for Pinkie Pie to remain visibly baffled.

“She feels indebted, an action she's regretted,” Zecora explained.

“I mean I get that part. But I was just being nice. I don't really want anything in return,” Pinkie Pie replied while scratching her head.

“I know you don't, but I still want to do something nice for you. Like how I’ve helped both Rarity and Applejack,” Twilight declared.

Pinkie Pie shook her head and brought her hooves down in front of her in an X motion. “Nuh uh. No way do I need that kind of help.”

“What do you mean by that?” Twilight asked, her voice tinged with hurt.

“What my pupil means to say, is that she has no great enemies to slay,” Zecora offered.

Pinkie Pie nodded vigorously. “Yeah. I mean the only problems I’ve ever really had was not having an outlet for helping people, and feeling kind of directionless after I found that outlet. Two things that Zecora and you have already helped me with.”

“I’m not sure what you mean. How have I helped you with either of those things?” Twilight puzzled aloud.

“Well, Zecora helped me discover that I could help people if I trained with her, and after that I still felt a little directionless.” Pinkie Pie smiled. “But after hanging out with you and the girls and hearing about how you’ve helped them, I’ve been really inspired. Plus we’ve really started to feel like a team, you know.”

Twilight blushed slightly. “I guess so. I never thought about it like that.”

“And hey, the next big adventure might be just around the corner,” Pinkie Pie exclaimed.

Zecora chuckled. “You may be on the very brink, but that's just what I think.”

Twilight frowned and ran her hoof across the moss-covered ground. “I guess I’ve never really considered it like that. Well, either way, I’m glad I was able to inadvertently pay you back, but I still would like to do something.”

Pinkie Pie hummed and tapped her chin. “Oh, I know! Why don't you help with the play later this week? Dark Hallow’s stage director is down with the beer flu, so they need someone to fill in for her, and you're great at organizational stuff.”

“The beer flu?” Twilight asked, turning to Zecora. “Should you guys be worried about that?”

“Oh, I wouldn't worry, it only affects those who aren't furry,” Zecora explained.

“I still don't understand,,” Twilight deadpanned.

“The stage director is a crystal pony,” Pinkie Pie added.

“Oh I see. Yeah I could do that. I’ll bring it up with Dark Hallow during our next weekly meeting, which is tomorrow, I think,” Twilight declared, before frowning suddenly. “Though I should probably read up on the plays Dark Hallow is putting on. Which one are you in again?”

Pinkie Pie grinned and raised her hoof dramatically. “Titus Andronicus! I play random background soldier number twenty-three, but I like to think that twenty-three has a vast inner monologue that the play cannot fully capture.”

“Riiiight,” Twilight muttered.

“And Zecora is the narrator,” Pinkie Pie added, squeezing the zebra around the shoulders.

“To this day I have no idea how you did that.” Zecora grumbled. “After this we are going to have to have quite the chat on that.”

Pinkie Pie giggled. “It's not like I hypnotized you or anything.”

“When you say it with a pout, you give me reason to doubt” Zecora retorted, before gently pushing Pinkie Pie away.

“Well alright then, I guess it's settled.” Twilight turned to Pinkie and fixed her with a firm look. “But if you ever need my assistance with anything, you have but to ask.”

Zecora glanced over her shoulder, a grin springing across her face. “It seems as though your little mishap has played its course. Though I should go and double check the source.”

The zebra stood and began to walk away, with Pinkie Pie hopping up to follow her. “Oh good thinkin’, I’ll come help you start sweeping,” declared the troll.

“Actually Pinkie,” Twilight interrupted, catching the troll by the shoulder. “I was hoping we could talk for a little bit longer.”

“If that's okay with Zecora,” Pinkie Pie replied hopefully.

“Of course you can help your friend. I’d rather not see her story end,” Zecora shouted without looking back.

Pinkie Pie shrugged and plopped back down across from the unicorn. “Okay, so what do you need to know?”

Twilight frowned and shifted from hoof to hoof nervously. “Well, you see, it's about Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.”

The troll’s mood darkened, and her hair lost a twinge of its poofiness. “I sure hope you know what your doing, Twilight, because that is a hurt that goes really deep.”

The unicorn nodded and tapped her forehooves together. “I understand, but those two have also helped me quite a bit, and I feel like there is a mystery there. Or at least something that my unique skills can assist with, ya know?”

Pinkie Pie frowned. “I know you mean well, but this is a subject that if brought up could make a lot of things worse.” She sighed. “The only time I ever tried to talk to them about what happened they both ended up arguing and didn't talk to one another for like a week. Which is a lot for them.”

“That does sound… extreme.” Twilight shook her head. “Still. I have to try. If my assumption is correct, then the issue which lies at the root of all this is one that only I can help with. I know that sounds egotistical, but it's just what I feel.”

Pinkie Pie nodded. “I get it, but still. Think long and hard about this, Twilight, ‘cause if things go wrong, you may lose a friend or two. At least for a little while anyway.”

Twilight took one of Pinkie Pie’s forehooves in her own and clutched it tightly. “Which is why I need your insight. Surely you have some bit of wisdom to offer on this matter.”

Pinkie’s frown dissipated and was replaced by a small, optimistic smile. “I suppose I could offer a few pointers.”

“Thank you, Pinkie Pie,” Twilight exclaimed, dropping the mare’s hoof.

“For one, do not under any circumstance insinuate that Fluttershy’s decision was a rushed one, or defend her parents. Those topics are a good way to end up in a yelling match with one or both of them at the same time,” Pinkie Pie warned.

Twilight nodded. “That seems obvious enough.”

“Also, sit down with both of them together,” Pinkie Pie declared with uncharacteristic firmness. “They both act different when they talk about this subject alone. If they are going to figure out their issues, then it has to be as a team.”

“As a team, got it.”

“And lastly, try not to see this whole mess as a puzzle. It's not going to have an easy end, or even a firm conclusion for that matter, and also don't forget that the forest is protective of its chosen,” Pinkie Pie concluded before standing.

“Okay. That's… vague, but I should have assumed as much,” Twilight exclaimed.

Pinkie Pie shrugged. “Rarity and Applejack’s issues had a nice, easy ending to them, and though I feel like someone will come out of this changed, it won’t mean that the problem has gone away. Sorry, Twilight, I know how that sounds.”

“No, that's okay. I shouldn't have assumed there would be some easy ending to begin with,” Twilight hastily replied.

Pinkie Pie pulled the unicorn into a brief, tight hug. “You're a remarkable pony, Twilight Sparkle. If anyone is going to help heal the hurt they hold in their hearts, it's you.”

“I… thank you, Pinkie Pie. Your faith in me is somewhat scary,” Twilight admitted.

Pinkie Pie leapt up and took a step back. “And remember, if you don't have faith in yourself, have faith in me, who has faith in you.”

Twilight chuckled. “I will.”

“Best of luck,” Pinkie Pie offered before turning and walking towards the house which was no longer smoking, though the inside had been turned black.

Twilight shook her head. “Well, she has her work cut out for her, that's for sure.”

Sighing to herself, Twilight began to trot back towards the edge of the clearing, to where she assumed the large wolf was still lying. Once the unicorn had pushed through the foliage and emerged out the other side, Twilight was surprised to find that all three were standing at attention, waiting for her. They had also received some damage, with White and Purple appearing slightly charred while Red was missing its entire lower jaw.

“What happened to you?” Twilight asked, rushing up to the largest timberwolf and inspecting it closer.

The wolf shrugged and gestured deeper into the forest halfheartedly.

Frowning, Twilight followed the timberwolf’s look to where she was able to see tracks both familiar and not so familiar. Her own were relatively easy to spot as she had approached at a steady, even pace, while the wolves were recognizable for obvious reasons. There was also a third set, one that seemed to have been made by a hooved being, but which ended abruptly as if the person had simply vanished.

“Did you three get in a fight with someone?” Twilight asked, turning to the three wolves and eying them curiously.

The three nodded in unison, and Twilight was left even more confused than before. “Well, it's not like I can ask you to describe the attacker or anything.” She sighed. “Come on, I’ll heal you up but after that we are heading back to town.”

The three wolves merely stared blankly at her as Twilight cast a quick spell and mended the damage they had received. Once done, they assembled around the mare before setting off in the direction of Ponyville.

With the town now in sight, Twilight hopped off the back of the largest wolf, who nuzzled her suddenly. “Daww, I like you too,” Twilight replied, returning the affection in kind.

The other two wolves both nuzzled the unicorn briefly before parting.

“Alright, I guess I have to let you guys go now. I really appreciate you helping out even if it wasn't really your choice.” Twilight winced. “Augh, now I feel bad for a semi-sentient collection of tree branches.”

The smallest wolf snorted.

“Sorry, I’ll let you go now. Just don't attack anyone, please?” Twilight requested.

The largest wolf nodded, and when Twilight lit her horn and undid the spell she placed on them, the wolf shook itself briefly before turning and leaving. The mushroom-covered wolf gave Twilight a slight nod before following its fellow, and the last one did so as well, but only after it shot Twilight a glare. Confused, Twilight watched as the trio slipped deftly back into the woods, vanishing behind a set of small bushes despite their massive size.

“Well, that was… interesting,” Twilight murmured. “I really should find the time to do a research paper on timberwolves, the books available are surprisingly light on information regarding them.”

Twilight shook her head and turned back to town, making her way through the light underbrush on the outskirts and onto a more solid path. Once she had done that, the pony made her way towards a pair of mushroom houses, and to the street they sat at the end of. Silently hoping that she wasn't trouncing through someone’s herb garden, Twilight trotted out of the woods and back into civilization.

Looking around, she noticed that very few people were out and about, but that made sense as most were probably still working at this time. With that in mind, Twilight made her way towards where she hoped to gain information on Rainbow Dash’s whereabouts, her library. Walking the streets, Twilight found her spirits slowly rising despite the rather dire final conversation she had with Pinkie Pie.

The friendly waves and greetings sent her way made a smile slowly come to the mare’s face and she couldn't help but hope. After all, Twilight had managed to help three of her other friends, even if one was only incidentally and hardly counted. Still, she had a one hundred percent success rate so far, though Twilight was very cognizant of the possibility that she may become overconfident.

Shaking off her bit of introspection, she made her way around the town square and to the library, where the same slightly short guard stood. Trotting up to him, Twilight smiled and glanced through the window to her home.

“Is Spike still here?” she inquired.

The guard shook his head. “No, he left not long ago. He mentioned something about wanting to see Sweetie Belle again. Took a book about plays along with him.”

Twilight smiled faintly. “He must be trying to read up on the play before they go on their big date... Oh, I just realized I never asked your name.”

“It's Night Flight, and don't worry, this is the first time you’ve asked,” the guard replied with a grin.

“Whew, well at least there's that,” Twilight muttered. “Say, you wouldn't happen to know where Rainbow Dash is by chance, do you? I hope she is off work soon.”

Night Flight hummed and scratched his chin. “I think she was on market duty today, but if you need her for something, there are standing orders that she is to assist you without delay.”

“That's right, Dark Hallow mentioned something like that.” Twilight smacked a hoof against her head. “Darnit. If I hadn't gone around the square, I would have seen her.”

“It's all good. You made my afternoon at least a little more entertaining,” remarked Night Flight.

“Well, that's good! Oh and one last thing. Was the being you saw earlier pony-shaped and did they leave behind any tracks?” Twilight inquired.

The guard nodded slowly. “They were vaguely pony shaped, but I never got close enough to tell for sure. As for tracks, I didn't notice any at the time, but I chased them under your balcony, so if there were any, they would be there.”

“Thanks again, Night Flight,” Twilight remarked, nodding to the guard before turning and walking away.

It didn't take long to trot over to the spot he had mentioned, and though upon first glance there didn't seem to be any kind of markings, Twilight wasn't about to give up. Leaning close against the ground, she cast a quick spell, only to find it was a little more difficult than anticipated. Still, once it was cast, she could see the ground a little better than when relying on her dark vision alone.

It also revealed that there were indeed two sets of tracks, one a little deeper and closer together, which were likely Night Flight’s, as well as a second set. These tracks were a bit wider apart and not quite as deep, suggesting their gait was longer, and they werent quite as heavy. They also looked similar to the ones Twilight had seen in the woods, and they too ended abruptly, same as the last ones Twilight had tried to follow not long ago.

“Definitely a unicorn,” Twilight murmured. “Either that or someone who has access to a spell stone, but those are too rare to use this frequently.”

The unicorn stood bolt upright all of a sudden. “It must be Sunset Shimmer. It's the only explanation. But how could that be possible? How could she have followed me here?”

Twilight began to pace as she muttered to herself. “Think, Twilight, is there anything she could have used to follow you? Maybe it was just luck and she followed the river before finding my tracks. That doesn't seem plausible though. Especially given the bizarre nature of the forest itself.”

Letting out a deep sigh, Twilight turned to the market square at the center of town. “No time to ponder that right now. Though I better place some wards on the library when I can.”

As she walked, Twilight continued to ruminate on this disturbing bit of information, only to slowly grow angrier by the second. Sunset Shimmer threatened to ruin everything that she had managed to build since the death of her mother. She had friends, a home, and a family, one that she had found in the last place she would have ever anticipated.

Rage burnt hot in the unicorn’s chest, sparked by the real possibility that Sunset Shimmer could take away something else of hers. That rage was followed by guilt stemming from the fact that the assassin was merely a puppet, one that was ultimately controlled by Celestia. Then it was right back to anger, with her thoughts consumed by the hated alicorn and the harm she had done to Twilight.

“Woah, you alright there, Twi?” a friendly voice asked.

Twilight blinked and looked up to where Rainbow Dash stood a few feet away from her, a worried expression on her face. The thestral wore all of her usual light plate mail armor, and on her side was the crescent blade she always wore. Following Rainbow Dash’s gaze, Twilight realized that she had inadvertently killed the grass beneath her hooves. Worse still, she had been leaving blackened hoof prints for a good number of feet, further driving home the guilt she felt.

“Oh uh, woops,” Twilight muttered, kicking a bit of dirt over the black spots she had left.

“Are you okay? This is a necromancy thing, right?” Rainbow Dash inquired.

“I think so. It probably has to do with my mood,” Twilight remarked, frowning as she looked at the damage she had inadvertently done.

“Well, what's buggin’ ya? Rarity didn't try and stick you in another dress, did she?” Rainbow Dash pressed.

“Ha, no. If only that was all I had to worry about,” Twilight murmured.

“You’re right. Not enough holes in you for that. So if that ain't it, what's got your knickers in a twist this time?” Rainbow Dash asked, smiling faintly.

Twilight looked left and then right before leaning closer. “It's Sunset, she might be here in Ponyville.”

“Really? She didn't exactly strike me as the sneaky type from what you’ve mentioned of her,” Rainbow Dash pointed out.

“Well I mean, I don't know for sure that it's her, but it's the most logical conclusion given that a spell casting assassin has been trying to kill me,” Twilight stated.

Rainbow Dash shrugged. “I wouldn't worry about it. I’ll talk to the boss and we’ll have the guard doubled just in case. She can't out sneak the night guard, and when we catch her, she’ll be dead or in jail so fast it will make her head spin.”

Twilight chuckled. “You know what, yeah! I have a whole bunch of new allies, I shouldn't worry about her so much.”

“Exactly,” Rainbow Dash declared, before wrapping a hoof about Twilight’s shoulder. “Now was that it? Or is Auntie Rainbow Dash going to have to threaten you with a noogie before you tell her why you're really here.”

“Har har, Rainbow Dash, you’re worse than Pinkie Pie,” Twilight muttered, shrugging off the other mare’s hoof. “And that was only partly why I was here, the main reason was to talk to you and Fluttershy.”

“Me and Flutters? Why? What’s up?” Rainbow Dash asked, the mirth slowly slipping from her voice.

“It's… personal. I just need to talk to you both somewhere private,” Twilight stated evenly.

Rainbow Dash nodded. “I can do that at least. The shift was over in ten anyway. Just let me go talk to Stink Weed, and I’ll get back to you.”

“Stink Weed? Oof, someone’s parents must not have been in a good mood when they were born,” Twilight remarked.

Rainbow Dash chuckled. “Oh that's not actually her name, though it is fitting.”

The thestral leapt into the air, and flew over to a nearby rooftop wherein a tall, lanky female thestral guard sat staring out over the crowd. Twilight hummed thoughtfully to herself as she considered how exactly she was going to broach the subject she had in mind. It wouldn't be easy, that much was certain, as it was a painful one for both Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash.

It also didn't have any real mystery or obvious solution either, so it wasn't likely that Twilight could just spell the issue away. Now that she thought about it, she wasn't even certain if there was a way to ‘solve’ this little issue in the first place. After all, the hurt they felt stemmed from an event that had already come to pass, one that couldn't be undone, or at least not undone by traditional magic.

Twilight shook her head though, stopping that train of thought and reminding herself of what Pinkie Pie had said about treating it like a puzzle. Furthermore it wasn't like there was a necromancy spell capable of bringing back someone who was already sort of undead. And to make matters worse, Fluttershy wasn't exactly normal even when it came to those who had returned from the realm beyond.

The spirit had been infused with a piece of the chaotic forest itself, and though certainly not alive, Twilight wasn't certain if Fluttershy could even be classified as undead like Twilight herself was. The unicorn stowed away such concern when she noticed Rainbow Dash gliding down towards her. The thestral wore a slight smirk, though that expression vanished by the time she reached Twilight.

“So, how did it go?” Twilight inquired, gesturing to the other guard.

Rainbow Dash shrugged. “Weedy didn't like it, but she couldn't really complain. It's not like there was a lot going on today anyway.”

Twilight glanced out over the relatively small group of beings who had gathered at the market. “So, do you know where Fluttershy is? Or perhaps where her grove is? I haven't been able to go back there since the last time I was in trouble,” Twilight exclaimed.

“That makes sense. Fluttershy’s grove can only be found when she wants it to be found, though it usually pops back up near town in about the same spot.” Rainbow Dash tapped her nose and winked. “Thankfully I know a sure fire way of finding her.”

“Oh really? And what is that?” Twilight replied curiously.

“You’ll see.”

“I can't believe this is your plan,” Twilight deadpanned.

Rainbow Dash blinked and glanced over her armored shoulder. “Well, if you don't like it, then come up with something better.”

Twilight sighed and ran a hoof down her face. “I-”

An ear splitting screech from the thestral made Twilight wince, and she clamped her hooves over her ears. “Would you cut that out for two seconds?” Twilight shouted.

“Look, I don't know what your issue is. If Fluttershy hears an injured animal, she’ll come running,” Rainbow Dash replied.

“That's not where my annoyance stems from. It's more so the mind-rending shrieking noise you keep making. You sound like a tea kettle, only somehow a hundred times more shrill,” Twilight complained.

“It's an injured bat,” Rainbow Dash replied. “And I’ll have you know my imitation is on point.”

Twilight sighed again and put her hooves back over her ears. “Just let me know when it works.”

Rainbow Dash shrugged and turned back around, ready to screech once more, only to stop before she did so. “Oh hey, Fluttershy. There you are.”

The bright blue-eyed bunny hopped over to them. “Oh,Rainbow Dash. You didn't happen to see an injured bat by chance, did you?”

Rainbow Dash shook her head. “It was just me. Twilight wanted to talk to us about something.”

Twilight glanced past Rainbow Dash and slowly removed her hooves from her ears. “Oh, thank goodness. We found Fluttershy.”

“So what did you need to talk to me about?” asked the bunny, who hopped over so the three beings stood in a circle.

“Before we get to that, I was hoping to talk about it somewhere a little more private,” Twilight urged. “I may or may not have an assassin on my tail.”

Rainbow Dash nodded. “Right, so if we could move this conversation to your grove, that would be wonderful.”

“Oh, um, absolutely,” Fluttershy declared before hopping deeper into the forest.

Twilight slipped in next to Rainbow Dash before following after the woodland creature. “You know we could have gone back to the library,” Twilight whispered.

Rainbow Dash shrugged. “We could, but if it's a serious conversation I would rather it be had somewhere Fluttershy is comfortable.”

The unicorn’s gaze lingered on the bunny. “I suppose I can't fault you there.”

“Besides, it won't take long,” Rainbow Dash assured.

Sure enough, it didn't take much time at all, and after only a few minutes of walking, Twilight was greeted with the pungent scent of rot once more. Now that she was ready for it, the smell didn't quite hit as hard as it did the first time, but it wasn't exactly pleasant either. Still, Twilight steeled herself and tried her best not to look at the small mounds of rotten flesh near the base of some of the trees which fringed Fluttershy’s grove.

The tall trees and thick bushes which surrounded the spirit’s home were as impressive as ever. The grove itself also seemed to jump out of nowhere like usual, with the path they had been following swerving to the right and bringing them to the edge of her abode rather suddenly. Pushing through the thick foliage, Twilight bore witness to the strange splendor that was Fluttershy’s home once again.

The chorus of birds sang a now familiar tune, welcoming Fluttershy back home. Rabbits, squirrels and other small prey animals flitted about the area, most of whom eyed Twilight curiously and ignored Rainbow Dash completely. Glancing across the grove revealed that the large bear Fluttershy had befriended was still slumbering in the same spot he always seemed to be.

And standing in the center of it all was an oddly thin, but incredibly tall tree which blanketed the grove in its leaves. Leaves which were a soft pink when the light of the moon struck them at the perfect angle. A sight made slightly less strange by the incredibly light brown bark of the odd tree, which looked healthier than the last time Twilight had seen it.

Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash stopped by a small open area surrounded by oddly sized stones, before sitting down next to one another. Twilight followed close behind, positioning herself across from the two other beings and noting that the ground felt surprisingly comfortable. The unicorn idly wondered if she was just getting used to sitting on dirt, or if it was actually kind of comfortable.

“Right, so I’m sure you're wondering why I wanted to talk to you,” Twilight began.

“I thought it was because of this assassin,” Fluttershy remarked before chewing her lip and looking around nervously. “It isn't her, is it?”

“I’m not entirely sure to be honest, but regardless that's not why I’m here.” Twilight cleared her throat. “I’m here to discuss what I saw back at the tower.”

Rainbow Dash stiffened slightly and eyed the unicorn closely. “What exactly do you mean?”

“Like I mentioned after that whole adventure finally concluded, I saw visions of your darkest moments,” Twilight hesitantly began.

“I remember that part, but you never said what happened in those visions,” Rainbow Dash replied.

“Actually, Rainbow Dash, she tried to. You, um, well. Didn't want to hear it,” Fluttershy offered weakly.

The thestral crossed her forehooves over her chest. “I just don't like the idea of someone knowing a dark secret about me, okay?”

“I know and trust me, if at the time I did not believe one hundred percent in the idea that seeing them would help save you from the nightmare, I wouldn't have seen them,” Twilight stated.

Rainbow Dash’s frown deepened, and she let out a low sigh. “I guess I shouldn't get all huffy when I don't know what it even is.”

“I would like to know as well,” Fluttershy added.

“Just remember I didn't intend to see any of what I did, and if I could just erase it from my memory, I would,” Twilight declared, almost pleadingly.

Fluttershy placed a fuzzy paw on Twilight’s leg. “It's okay, Twilight. Just tell us what you saw.”

The unicorn let out a sigh. “Okay, so. Fluttershy, I felt you running through the woods. You were crying recently, and there was a fresh bruise on your right cheek.”

The bunny recoiled slightly, her eyes going wide, while at the same time Rainbow Dash became even more on edge. “Well, go on,” Rainbow Dash urged.

Twilight glanced at each of her friends before gulping. “R-right. So you were running through the woods, searching for something and thinking about how you loved the forest. You thought it would shelter you, protect you and provide for you so you kept on running until you were near something important. Then I was pulled out of the vision.”

“You didn't happen to know why I got that bruise, did you?” Fluttershy whispered.

Twilight winced. “I might have. Your thoughts were vague, but I got enough clues to figure it out.”

“I… I need to be alone for a moment,” Fluttershy announced before standing suddenly.

Then, before anyone could say anything, the bunny suddenly went slack, and Twilight watched as the pegasus’ spirit leapt out of its body and flew towards the tree at the center of the grove. The ethereal being vanished the second she touched the bark of the plant, leaving Twilight alone with a slowly recovering Angel and an irate looking Rainbow Dash. The guard fumed silently, seemingly unsure if she should yell at Twilight or run off to try and help Fluttershy.

“R-rainbow, I-” Twilight began, only to be cut off.

“But nothing,” Rainbow Dash growled, jabbing a hoof into the unicorn’s chest. “That was the worst time in her life, a moment she had only ever told one other person of.”

“I-I didn't know, I just assumed-” Twilight began.

“Exactly, you didn't know, but you still blundered recklessly in anyway,” Rainbow Dash hissed. “And now you’ve gone and dredged up a hurt that had finally been put to rest.”

“Look, Rainbow Dash, I know what I did wasn't the brightest thing ever, but it had to have happened for a reason,” Twilight urged, gesturing in the direction she assumed the farm was. “I mean just look at what I’ve been able to do. I helped help the Apple family after I was shown Applejack’s darkest memory, and Rarity’s too for that matter.”

“That's different. They had things left undone, things that you could use your freaky magic to help with,” Rainbow Dash retorted, jabbing her hoof repeatedly into the other mare’s chest. “This is not a problem you can magic away unless you can go back in time and save Fluttershy from that horrible household of hers.”

“Rainbow Dash, you're hurting me,” Twilight pleaded, shoving away the mare’s armored hoof.

Rainbow Dash pushed herself back, but kept her gaze firmly locked on Twilight. “If Fluttershy ends up avoiding everyone for over a week because of this, you are going to be sorry.”

Twilight grimaced. “Look, I know this isn't ideal, but this has to mean something. Surely there is something I can do to help. I was able to help the others.”

“Not everyone wants or needs your help, Sparkle,” Rainbow Dash retorted bitterly.

Angel stood back up, the bunny’s eyes having returned to their natural black. Once standing, the bunny glared at the unicorn before turning to the thestral and glaring at her as well.

“What's with the look? I’m just trying to protect her, like I always have,” growled Rainbow Dash.

The bunny shook its head.

“I think he's trying to say we both messed up,” Twilight offered.

Rainbow Dash frowned. “I didn't do anything wrong.”

The bunny sighed and planted its pawed hand against its forehead.

“So what now? Are we just going to wait until Fluttershy comes back?” Twilight inquired, glancing from Angel to Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow Dash snorted irritably. “I guess I kind of want to know what you saw of me, but it wouldn't be fair if Fluttershy wasn't here.”

Twilight was about to agree when she suddenly noticed Angel was looking past her, towards Fluttershy’s tree. Following his gaze, Twilight was able to spot a nervous spirit who was making her way in their direction. Twilight quickly looked away, painfully aware of just how much Fluttershy didn't enjoy being seen in her natural form.

“I think she can hear us,” Twilight exclaimed.

Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow and glanced down at Angel. “Is this true?”

The bunny nodded, and Rainbow Dash relaxed slightly.

“That's something, I suppose.” The thestral sighed. “Fine, we may as well get this over with.”

Twilight took a deep breath and steadied herself. “So the first thing I noticed was that you were very angry, and that you were flying towards a cave, one you knew.”

“Fluttershy’s parents' home,” Rainbow Dash remarked somewhat angrily. “How much did you see?”

“I saw and felt everything up until your leg broke,” Twilight murmured.

Rather than be angry, Rainbow Dash merely hung her head. “Then I guess you know why I did what I did then.”

“I do.”

Rainbow Dash let out a long, withering sigh. “I got really lucky after that. Word got out over what had happened, and the case against me was quietly settled out of court. I was still allowed to join the guard too, because I didn't have a record. Even if everyone knew what happened.”

“I’m glad you were able to do that. You aren't too angry with me, are you?” Twilight asked nervously.

Rainbow Dash took off her helmet and placed it beside her. “I’m not, and I’m sorry I was before.”

“It's no problem, Rainbow Dash. I know how stressful that must have been,” Twilight offered.

“Still. I was rude.” Rainbow Dash sighed.

“Really, it's fine,” Twilight stated softly.

Fluttershy floated above the distraught guard, her ethereal hooves running down Rainbow Dash’s shoulders. “I thought she wasn't going to speak to me again, you know,” Fluttershy whispered.

Twilight perked up and glanced at the pegasus spirit as she laid her head on Rainbow Dash’s armored shoulder.

“It took a year and a day for my tree to grow large enough so I could manifest again,” Fluttershy continued. “I thought for sure that I would end a million miles from everyone, and that we would never see one another again.”

Rainbow Dash perked up suddenly. “Is she talking to you?” whispered the thestral.

Twilight nodded. “She’s talking about how long it took for her to grow, and that she never thought she’d see you again.”

Rainbow Dash blushed slightly. “Well, uh, tell her I still think it was silly she thought that.”

“I’m pretty sure she can still hear you, Rainbow Dash,” Twilight replied.

Fluttershy smiled faintly, the spirit draping herself over Rainbow Dash’s seated form. “I know it was a silly assumption, but I’m glad I was wrong.”

Rainbow Dash gulped and tugged at her armor. “Oh, okay. So uh. What do we uh, do now?”

“I’m not sure,” Twilight replied with a shrug.

Fluttershy kissed the top of Rainbow Dash’s head, prompting the mare to shiver and blush. The spirit quickly floated over to Angel, who stood with a smile on his face, arms outstretched. Together the spirit and the bunny seemed to almost dance for a moment, before Fluttershy fell into Angel, vanishing.

When next the animal’s eyes opened, they revealed twin orbs of the purest teal.

“Thank goodness,” Rainbow Dash muttered. “You had me worried for a minute there.”

“Y-yeah. I just needed some time alone. It's hard to deal with your own emotions while you're in someone else’s head,” Fluttershy explained.

“So, clearly there is something we can do to better put this issue to bed, right?” Twilight urged.

Rainbow Dash nodded and banged a hoof against her armored chest. “Heck yeah there is! We gotta get revenge and really tell those jerks how they made Fluttershy feel.”

The bunny wilted, its ears falling in front of its face. “Can we maybe, not do that? I would really rather never see them again.”

“I mean did they at least get in some kind of trouble with the law?” Twilight questioned.

“They had to pay a fine and had a brief stay in prison but that was for like, only six months,” Rainbow Dash explained.

“They may have deserved a little more than that, but that was the maximum penalty,” Fluttershy pointed out.

Rainbow Dash scowled. “I get it, and the law is good and whatever, but sometimes it can't do what it should do.”

“Woah there. Let's not do anything crazy now. I don't want to get tossed in prison,” Twilight cautioned.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes and scoffed. “We won't go to prison because we won't get caught.”

“Wait, what are you planning on doing?” Fluttershy stood up and crossed her tiny furry limbs across her chest. “Because I am not okay with whatever it is you have in mind.”

“But you haven't even heard it!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed before throwing up her forelegs.

“Look, why don't we all just take a breath and wind this conversation back-” Twilight began, only to be interrupted when the world suddenly began to spin.

Both Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy cried out in confusion, the beings clinging to one another as everything shook violently, reality blurring together.

And then it was over, and all three friends were lying face down in the grass, groaning as they felt their eyeballs spin around inside their skulls. Twilight felt like someone had just kicked her in the head, and for a moment she wasn't even sure where she was. When feeling returned to her entire body she slowly stood up, her shaky limbs slowly coming back under her full control.

“Okay, what the heck just happened?” Twilight muttered.

Rainbow Dash banged a hoof upside her head, as if trying to knock the sense back into herself. “I don't know, but I feel like I just stepped back into the ring with my close combat instructor,” Rainbow Dash muttered.

“Girls. I don't think we’re in my grove anymore,” Fluttershy whispered.

Twilight blinked and looked around, the unicorn quickly finding that her friend was indeed correct. “H-how did we get here?” Twilight murmured.

“I think the forest moved us somehow,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed before reaching for her helmet and realizing it was gone. “Damn, well at least I still have my sword.”

“Wait, what do you mean the forest moved us?” Twilight asked.

“It does that sometimes, but I’ve never heard of it sending someone to a ruin before,” Fluttershy remarked.

Twilight hastily surveilled her surroundings, only for her jaw to drop. “Woah. How did I not notice that earlier?”

“Not notice wha- woah you weren't kidding,” Rainbow Dash muttered as she gazed upon an enormous stone structure that rose from the jungle they found themselves surrounded by.

“We are very far from Ponyville,” Twilight muttered as she observed just how different the local flora was.

Gone were the chaotic yet still slightly organized Everfree Forest Twilight had come to love. Though strange in the fact that it had trees of all shapes and sizes, some of which shouldn't be native to the area, the Everfree was at least visibly a forest. This however, was undeniably a jungle, one that was as twisted and as overgrown as the forest they were presumably in a different part of.

“I’ve never been this far from Ponyville before. Where do you think we are, Fluttershy?” Rainbow Dash inquired, turning to the bunny.

“I don't know. I’ve never been this far either, but it feels like we’re still in the Everfree at least,” Fluttershy replied.

Twilight couldn't help but stare at the five story tall pyramid of stone which towered over most of the landscape. A set of stairs went from the ground all the way to the very top, where a statue stood tall, proud and completely overgrown. The finer details of the structure had been similarly covered up by vines, shrubs or moss, but from what Twilight could tell the structure was undeniably ancient.

“What is it, Twi?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“I think it's a ziggurat,” Twilight muttered. “A really big one at that.”

“What is it doing out here?” inquired Fluttershy, who stood next to her friends as they all stared at the bizarre structure.

Twilight shrugged. “I have no idea.”

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