Celestia stared out over the horizon, a frown pressed firmly onto her face, and her gaze set on the distant forest. Though the wall of green was only just barely visible, even from her high vantage point, Celestia peered into the woods. Her mind conjured images of her faithful soldier going to battle, only to be bested by the foul necromancer which threatened her grand designs.

Only for her face to screw up into an odd look of confusion all of a sudden, rage vanishing in an instant. “Wait, where am I? What am I doing out here?” muttered the alicorn, looking down at the golden railing which surrounded the small platform she stood on.

Her eyes flashed a golden light and the pony shook her head. “Oh right, of course. I guess I must not be getting enough sleep,” she whispered.

Turning back towards the her lounge, Celestia began to pace, her hooves clopping audibly against the white marble floor. “But what am I going to do about her? If even Sunset has failed, then what hope do my other soldiers have?” she asked the empty room.

Shaking her head, the mare suddenly stood tall and proud. “We shall dispatch a much more powerful force, one that will head straight towards this den of villainy. We will also not trust wholly in mortal beings.”

The pony sighed and hung her head. “Yes, I suppose that is the best route, though I wish there was another way.”

She turned suddenly, snorting bitterly. “Some things simply must be rooted out with force. Lest we forget what happened to dear Luna.”

Tears budded at the edge of the alicorn’s eyes, even as she sneered at the distant mass of green. “You will not destroy what I’ve worked so hard to build. This I swear.”

Trotting back up to the balcony, Celestia grinned wolfishly even as tears poured down her face. “In fact, I think I’m going to destroy the precious little hovel you love so much. Maybe after I’ve leveled that pathetic hole to the ground, I’ll finally put that wretched forest to the torch like I should have done a millennium ago.”

The alicorn chuckled. “Soon, monster, soon you shall taste my wrath and when I finally crush you beneath my hoof, I shall-”

A sudden knock startled the mare, prompting her to spin around, eyes glowing a baleful gold. “Who is it?” she shouted.

“Um, Shining Armor, Your Highness,” whispered a meek voice.

Celestia sighed. “Come in, First Lieutenant Armor.”

The door opened to reveal a nervous young stallion holding a small arrangement of flowers bound together with a white bow. Once inside the room, the male closed the door gently before trotting excitedly up to the alicorn, his neck craning to meet Celestia’s gaze. Though he wasn't quite as sickly as he had once been, the alicorn still towered over him.

Extending his flowers, the stallion blushed nervously. “I got these for you.”

Celestia blinked and looked down at the mix of white and yellow plants with disinterest. “Why are you bringing me these?” she asked.

Gulping, Shining Armor withdrew the flowers. “Well, we did that, and I figured I’d surprise you since the guards said you were up here alone. And well, it seemed like it was a good idea considering...”

Celestia cocked her head. “Considering what?”

This time it was Shining Armor’s turn to blink. “You were crying recently.”

Celestia dabbed her cheeks absently, a frown crossing her face as she looked down at her tear-stained hoof. “I don't…” She sighed, wiping her cheeks with a handkerchief. “Please forget you saw that. I had merely heard of a poor creature murdered in cold blood in the docks and was overcome with emotion.”

Shining Armor nodded slowly. “I read the same report. Though I’m surprised you care, considering the creature in question was a griffon.”

“I know it was not long ago that we were at war with the empire, but that is in the past now,” Celestia replied, her features slowly softening. “She was a part of this great city, and she will be missed.”

“That's nice of you to say,” Shining Armor remarked, perking up slightly. “Oh, do you have some water for these by chance?”

Celestia glanced at the flowers. “I’ll take care of it, dear. Just leave them on the table.”

“Err, okay,” Shining Armor murmured. “Would you like to join me for dinner by chance? I know this place-”

“Shining Armor,” Celestia interrupted.

“Yes?”

“I would love nothing more than to take the time off and enjoy your company, but I was actually just about to go to an important meeting,” Celestia declared, a hoof caressing the underside of his chin. “How does next week Saturday sound?”

“I was going to visit my father then, but I suppose that could wait,” Shining Armor offered.

“Excellent. I will see you then, dear,” Celestia stated, planting a light kiss on his forehead.

With cheeks glowing hotly, the stallion turned and swiftly left, Shining Armor having known Celestia well enough to understand when he was being dismissed. When the door closed firmly behind him, Celestia’s smile and soft expression fell away, replaced by a firm scowl. Now alone once more, Celestia enacted a quick lock on the entrance to the room, ensuring she didn't get any more visitors.

After that was done, she lit her horn and disappeared in a flash of light, reappearing in what at first glance would appear to be a normal quarry. Rows of descending paths were cut into the rocky cliffs leading down to a flat central point which looked more like a laboratory than a mining operation with marble blocks inscribed with various symbols piled in random places, though usually stacked next to one of several large magical arrays.

Above the quarry itself was an enormous dome made of some manner of enchanted steel which obscured the sky and necessitated the use of large floodlights. These lights were focused mainly on the centermost area, where a dozen or so unicorns were busy working. Some were inscribing new runes onto freshly cut blocks of stone, while others were reading or conversing with one another.

Upon the appearance of their sovereign, everyone dropped to the ground, bowing low to the imposing alicorn.

“Rise, my faithful subjects,” Celestia commanded, smiling faintly. “Now would someone inform me as to where Tempest Shadow is located?”

“Here, Your Majesty!” shouted a voice from around behind a tall, bipedal stone golem.

Though not yet animated and only partially complete, the automaton already stood at a towering fifteen feet. It also had numerous spell matrices carved into its chest and arms, leaving its broad torso relatively untouched. The golem lacked any matter of head with its body ending abruptly at the neck, though glowing lines of mana had been etched up to where its head would be.

A grunt came from behind the golem a second before a large block of stone was pushed into place on the golem’s shoulders. A second later a strange unicorn leapt from atop some scaffolding and trotted around the front of her creation, bowing before the alicorn. Though quite tall and lithe, even for a unicorn, the dark orchid-colored pony still barely came up to Celestia’s chest. If her horn hadn't been a broken stub, the pony certainly would have come a lot closer to matching Celestia in height.

“Rise, my soldier,” Celestia commanded. “Rise and tell me how the project fairs.”

The lightly armored unicorn rose quickly, standing tall before the alicorn, her opal eyes quickly becoming distant.

“Where to begin?” Tempest muttered half to herself, running an armored hoof through her short, crimson mane. “The golems you requested are mostly done, but we had a few supply snags, so it will be a bit before we are able to complete them. This also means it will be a very long time before we could muster a significant amount.”

Tempest Shadow gestured towards the closest golem. “The enchanters were able to place all the spells you wanted, though it was a struggle to do so, and we will need to stress test them once more to be sure they are working.”

Scratching at the long thin scar that stretched over her right eye, Tempest hummed to herself. “Other than that, there have been a few minor disagreements among the staff due to my sudden appointment and lack of formal training, but that seems to be about the long and short of it, Your Majesty.”

“Good,” declared Celestia. “And the squad of mages I commanded you to assemble?”

Tempest Shadow grinned. “A few more drills, and I’m confident that they will be functioning like a well-oiled machine.”

“That is good to hear,” Celestia stated, her gaze lingering on the golem and its broad chest. “What, in your opinion, is the level of your team’s combat ability?”

The unicorn raised an eyebrow. “Gauged against what, exactly?”

Celestia rolled a hoof in the air. “Humour me. Say you are fighting an army, or perhaps monsters of some kind.”

“Ha, well, I can tell ya one thing. It would take more than an army or a bunch of monsters to stop us,” Tempest Shadow proclaimed. “In fact, I would say that if we were to fight, say, the entire minotaur army on even ground, we’d suffer only maybe thirty percent casualties.”

“That is quite low, considering you have but fifty golems, half that number of mages and only a handful of knights at your command,” Celestia retorted.

Tempest Shadow nodded confidently. “The golems are nearly indestructible, and their offensive power is unmatched. Why, I would say that if these things could fly, they might be able to take an ancient red dragon with relative ease.”

Celestia chuckled. “I’ll have to look into that. It would be rather nice to put an end to those damnable raiders once and for all.”

“Indeed,” murmured Tempest Shadow. “Give me a hundred of these things and I could take down Griffonia. Give me a thousand and I in turn could give you the world.”

Celestia smiled. “Now that is what I like to hear. Though you need not set your sights quite that high.”

“Oh? So you finally have a target in mind for us?” Tempest Shadow asked, raising an eyebrow. “Because I think I speak for the whole team when I say that we are eager to prove our usefulness.”

“I bet you are,” replied Celestia, who shifted her gaze towards the other ponies working behind her.

The alicorn scanned the area, and upon finding that none of the other scientists were nearby, turned back to Tempest, her voice barely above a whisper. “Your target is a single pony hiding in the depths of the Everfree. We have managed to get a lock on her location and as soon as your team and the golems are ready, you are to begin your assault,” Celestia stated.

The unicorn’s eyes opened wide. “The Everfree?”

Celestia nodded. “An earlier scout failed to complete her mission, though she did at least give us some valuable information on your target.”

“Like how to get around the spatial distortion abilities of the forest, I presume?” Tempest Shadow lead.

“Exactly,” Celestia proclaimed, smiling faintly. “Which is where your golems come in. They will simply flatten the forest, disrupting its ability to disorient those who enter and giving your mages the chance to cast spatial anchors. The forest’s effects are greatly diminished when it comes to non-sentient creatures, so this should be feasible.”

“Like these big guys,” Tempest Shadow finished, gazing up at the towering war golem. “Expected resistance?”

“Heavy,” Celestia stated simply. “There is a reason I am sending an army killer to take down but one pony.”

Tempest Shadow nodded slowly. “She must be quite the threat.”

“Do not underestimate her and her companions. The magic she wields is unlike anything you have ever faced,” Celestia remarked with a hint of bitterness.

“Oh? Is she a shadowmancer or something?” Tempest Shadow pressed.

“You will be told more after you are granted a higher security clearance. Until then all you need to know is that should you complete this mission, you will be richly rewarded,” Celestia replied.

The unicorn couldn't help but glance up at her shattered nub of a horn before looking back at Celestia. “Does that mean what I think it means?”

“It does,” finished Celestia. “In fact not only will the crown personally pay for the necessary thamautic grafting procedures, but you will also be placed on the anti-insurgent task force.”

Tempest Shadow’s grin nearly spread from one ear to the other. “I will have to redouble my efforts then. I wouldn't want to miss the opportunity of avenging my husband’s killer.”

“See to it that you do,” Celestia added, the alicorn lighting her horn and preparing a teleportation spell. “For if you complete your mission, you could get your revenge, your horn, and your rank by this time next year.”

The unicorn’s excitement was palpable, and a stray spark shot from her horn. “This is… amazing. I don't know what to say.”

“Say you’ll get the job done,” Celestia replied.

“I will,” Tempest Shadow proclaimed.

“That is all I needed to hear,” Celestia stated, smiling as she disappeared in a flash of light.

“Now are you sure I can't convince you into keeping your, well, everything?” Twilight asked, the skeletal pony gesturing to Sunset Shimmer’s body vaguely. “I’ve become rather adept at preserving a corpse, as strange as that sounds.”

Sunset Shimmer tried to roll her eyes, only to find that only one of them did so. “I appreciate the offer, truly I do, but slowly rotting is not exactly a fun sensation. Besides, I’d rather see a skull staring back at me in the mirror than this face.”

Twilight hummed, the undead mare silently wondering if it was worth it to bring up the obvious feelings of guilt which still plagued her zombie follower. In the end she merely frowned, and slowly shook her head, silently admitting defeat on this subject.

“Fine, but you are going to use the acid spell I found. I do not want to accidentally burn down the library,” Twilight retorted.

Sunset Shimmer tapped a hoof against the large metal tub she was currently standing in. “That's why we brought this out, remember?”

“I know, it just bears repeating, is all,” Twilight murmured.

“Alright then, are you going to give me some room now?” Sunset replied.

Twilight’s flaming purple orbs briefly winked out, as if the skeleton was blinking in confusion. “Oh, um yes, of course!” exclaimed the unicorn before stumbling back a few feet.

Sunset Shimmer shrugged and began to cast the acid splash spell that Twilight had taught her only a day earlier. As she did, the pony couldn't help but ruminate on the trials and tribulations they had gone through since their unfortunate reunion. To say that things had been awkward would be the understatement of the century.

Sure, Twilight had forgiven her, but Sunset could tell that a part of the other pony wasn't quite on board with that, as Twilight struggled to look Sunset in the eye. Though at least part of that was likely due to the fact that one of Sunset Shimmer’s eyes was perpetually pointing down. Sunset hoped that her little acid bath would help in that regard, as then Twilight wouldn't have to look at the face of her mother’s killer.

Sunset Shimmer tried not to think of the awkward catching up they had recently done, or the way that Twilight hadn't let her friends visit. Though Sunset knew Twilight’s excuse of wanting to be presentable again was partially true, the undead unicorn also knew there was more to it. Twilight had dealt with a lot of inner turmoil and baggage over the last two days, and studying was clearly her happy place.

In the end Sunset Shimmer hadn't interrupted much, only briefly speaking to the other unicorn a few times. The necromancer seemed at least a little more confident now, though Sunset Shimmer was still going to demand that she see a psychiatrist. The zombie hoped that Ponyville had such an individual, as she was going to need a session or two herself after all this was done.

And that was without considering all the post-traumatic stress bubbling just beneath the surface of her mind.

Feeling that her spell was now complete, Sunset Shimmer focused on her horn, putting her own inner turmoil aside for a moment. After checking that she had conjured the magic properly, the pony released it, watching as a greenish rune appeared above her head. A visual inspection revealed that the matrices were correct, and Sunset Shimmer closed her eyes, waiting for what she knew was coming.

A second later and what felt like a bucket of water was dumped on her head, causing her muscles to relax past the point of what should be possible. Though Sunset Shimmer could feel the remaining meat that clung to her begin to slough off her body, the sensation was oddly good. Almost as if she were shedding a heavy coat that had become weighted down during a downpour and was now becoming burdensome.

When she opened her eyes, she did so only metaphorically, as she lacked eyes, or even the flaming orbs that Twilight had. Extending a hoof, Sunset Shimmer found that not a single scrap of flesh remained on her outstretched limb. Every last speck of it was gone, leaving behind only pearly white bone that seemed to have been recently buffed to a shine.

“You know. I thought I would be more disturbed than this,” Sunset Shimmer openly remarked.

“It does feel oddly distant, doesn't it?” Twilight wondered aloud. “I’ve found that my sense of disgust is rather muted.”

“I’ve noticed the same. It's almost as if a part of me no longer sees my flesh as a part of my body,” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed, stepping out of the bucket. “How do I look?”

“Like a skeleton,” Twilight deadpanned. “In fact if I didn't know it was you, I wouldn't be able to tell you apart from any other set of bones.”

“I don't know why, but that is an immense relief,” Sunset Shimmer murmured absently. “Regardless. Do you have a mirror?”

Twilight gestured to the corner of the room, where a full length mirror rested against a wall. “Go ahead.”

Sunset Shimmer trod nervously up to the object, as if her mirrored self was going to leap out and attack her the moment their eyes met. With one final push, the unicorn took the final step, standing fully before the mirror and gazing into her reflection. Only to be a little underwhelmed when the skeleton staring back at her felt oddly normal, as if she had been dead for decades.

A sentiment Sunset Shimmer had thought of before, though now it felt strangely appropriate for some reason. She had, after all, become so alienated from her very body that she hadn't truly considered it hers in a long time. It was more Celestia’s than Sunset’s, and it had been that way for so long that Sunset Shimmer did not even mourn its loss.

In fact, it felt almost invigorating to see the animated pile of bones in the mirror, its empty skull staring blankly back at her. She tried to make a funny face, and though she felt like she was doing so, her skull merely remained the same. Peering a little closer, Sunset Shimmer could also tell that all remnants of the enchantments placed on her by Celestia were gone.

No lines or marks besmirched her pure white bones, leaving the unicorn whole for the first time in what felt like forever. Relief nearly overwhelmed the now undead unicorn and laughter erupted from her non-existent lips. If she had tear ducts, Sunset knew she would be crying and if she had lungs she would sob, instead the skeleton merely stood there, giggling in her echoey voice.

“Is something wrong?” whispered Twilight hesitantly.

Sunset Shimmer shook her head. “Nothing is wrong. In fact, I feel like myself for the first time in a long time. Though I think I may need some manner of accessory in order to make me stand out a little more.”

“You should speak to Rarity when she is over later. I’m sure she wouldn't mind helping you,” Twilight offered.

“Are you sure she’d be so gung ho to do so?” Sunset asked nervously, glancing at her bare skull from different angles. “I mean, she didn't see what you saw, and she doesn't really know what it's like to be under the hoof of a mare like Celestia.”

“That may be,” Twilight replied cautiously, stepping next to the slightly shorter unicorn, “but she also did not feel the ramifications of your actions.”

Sunset Shimmer winced, or at least she felt as though she did, as her skull did not shift expressions in the slightest. “I guess,” she muttered.

“Look,” Twilight began, pressing a bony hoof against Sunset’s shoulder. “I know this is strange, and we are going to have to work at it together, but I also know that my friends will support you. Just tell them your story, and I promise you they will come around.”

Sunset Shimmer nodded slowly. “Thanks again, by the way, and sorry about well…” The unicorn trailed off as she looked up to where the shattered splinter of Twilight’s horn remained fixed to her head.

Twilight frowned, her twin purple orbs glancing at her reflection. “It's fine… My magic was already growing weaker, and soul magic does not require you to have a horn in the first place.”

“Speaking of which…” Sunset Shimmer turned to the other skeletal pony as she did the same. “Do you think you could teach me necromancy? I only ever wanted to heal people, and it seems like the perfect tool to remedy many of the diseases I studied.”

“Soon,” Twilight declared. “There is a certain amount of luck when it comes to necromancy, and though I’m not one hundred percent on it, I have a theory that it's tied to your cutie mark.”

“Oh? Like you are born with it or what?” Sunset pressed.

“Sort of,” Twilight replied, rolling a hoof in the air. “My necromancy is so powerful it was slowly snuffing out my ability to cast anything else, while Trixie can't heal or harm with soul magic.”

“Then what exactly is there for her to learn, exactly?” Sunset asked, scratching her skull with a hoof. “Because that seems to cover just about everything.”

Twilight chuckled and shook her head. “Oh, you sound exactly like me a few months ago. But to answer your question, there is a lot you can do with necromancy. In fact I’d classify soul magic not as a school of magic, but rather a dark mirror of all schools.”

Sunset Shimmer’s jaw hung open. “Explain.”

“You have noticed how I can levitate things, right?” Twilight prompted, and Sunset nodded. “Well you can also alter someone’s memory or personality via necromancy. Though not as powerful in this regard as traditional neuromancy, it also affects parts of a person that neuromancy cannot.”

“You are trying to find a cure for Celestia’s meddling, aren't you?” Sunset stated suddenly.

Twilight nodded slowly. “That was my hope. But we’ll speak more on that particular subject later. For now, let's get back to my example and Trixie. Who is quite good at creating false life signatures and hiding life energy. She is also quite adept at bestowing certain curses and boons on another.”

“Fascinating,” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed in shock. “And to think, there was so much we could have learned if Celestia had not stamped it out.”

“Don't remind me,” Twilight murmured. “That is perhaps one of her worst sins. Among numerous others.” The unicorn shook her head. “Regardless. We are getting off topic. What exactly were we talking about again?”

“Uh… Your friends, I think,” Sunset Shimmer replied.

“Oh yes.” Twilight remarked, suddenly sounding quite melancholic. “I just hope Spike and them understand my need for time and distance.”

“If they are even half as kind as you have made them out to be, then I’m sure it won't be an issue,” Sunset Shimmer declared confidently.

“You’re right,” Twilight stated, half to herself. “I’m just glad I was able to figure out more about the nightmare and my new situation.”

“Speaking of which…” Sunset began. “Did you come up with an illusion spell like you talked about making?”

“Yes and no. I started on one, but quickly realized that it wasn't necessary, and that I probably didn't need to wait for your magic to come back,” Twilight explained.

“Oh? What do you mean?”

“Here, allow me to show you,” Twilight offered, taking a step back.

As soon as the unicorn had a bit more space, her shadow suddenly erupted from the ground and wrapped her skeletal form in black tentacles, which quickly coalesced around her entire body, creating an inky black layer of twisting darkness. This mass of shadow shifted colors and then began to move, slowly recreating Twilight’s old form nearly perfectly.

The only thing missing was her horn, which remained little more than a jagged spike sticking out of her forehead. Even her eyes seemed real and fleshy, though her body looked oddly smooth for some reason. Sunset’s guess was that the nightmare couldn't accurately reproduce fur, thus leaving Twilight in an uncanny valley.

“What do you think?” Twilight asked.

“The fur isn't there,” Sunset Shimmer pointed out. “You kind of look like a doll or something.”

“Oh pooh,” Twilight cursed. “Is it bad?”

Sunset Shimmer nodded quickly. “It's kinda creepy to be honest. I’d rather see a walking pile of bones.”

The mass of darkness quickly retreated back into Twilight’s shadow, leaving her as little more than a disappointed skeleton with two flaming orbs for eyes. “And we worked on that for so long,” she groaned

“Anyway,” Sunset Shimmer quickly retorted. “We didn't really talk too much during the last few days, and I was hoping we could run over a few things.”

“That's not true,” Twilight corrected. “You talked about your past, and… other stuff.”

Sunset Shimmer wished she could roll her eyes. “Twilight, I don't need flesh to feel the awkwardness everytime we are in the same room together.”

Twilight tried to sigh, only to forget she didn't have lungs. “I guess you're right. Look. Can we do this tonight? After everyone leaves?”

“Sure. I just thought you should know about this weird tablet I found in the bottom of some tower in the forest,” Sunset Shimmer remarked.

A sudden memory surged to the forefront of Twilight’s mind, reminding her of the stone slab she had seen her former self use when attempting to resurrect Discord. “Where exactly is this tablet, and what did it look like?” Twilight inquired, barely restraining her bubbling enthusiasm.

“I’m not sure where exactly it is, because it's, well, the forest, but it was in a rocky field,” Sunset began. “So it should be easily visible from above. As for the tablet itself, well, I’m not exactly certain. I couldn't read any of what was written.”

Twilight nodded slowly, scratching her bony chin with a hoof. “Interesting. I may very well know of the tablet you are speaking about, though it was my past self which saw it, not me.”

“Well, either way, it was in the basement of this tower, under a glowing golden dome of power and was heavily warded. Like, I don't think anything short of an alicorn could break into it,” Sunset Shimmer finished.

“Well, that's something…” Twilight shrugged. “Let's put that on the backburner as well. For now, we should probably go upstairs. I’m sure my friends will be here soon.”

“Speaking of which…” Sunset interrupted before Twilight could make it more than a single step. “Are you sure you want me there right away? Maybe you should talk to them first before introducing me.”

Twilight shook her head. “You were innocent in all this. Treating you as if that isn't the case will only make things worse.”

“I suppose,” Sunset Shimmer murmured.

“Come on,” Twilight prompted, patting the other unicorn on the shoulder. “Let’s go get things set up.”

Sunset nodded and followed meekly behind the taller skeletal unicorn.

Together the two ponies made their way swiftly upstairs and out into the main area of the library. Outside the tree home a few strange beings could be seen going about their day, making Sunset Shimmer feel oddly uncomfortable. Shaking her head, the unicorn reminded herself that there were privacy spells in place to ensure that nopony could see inside.

With her mind now at ease, the undead mare set herself to the task of creating a warm, welcoming space for Twilight’s friends. Pillows were fluffed, couches were rearranged, and chairs were brought over, along with a tea set which was placed on the coffee table in the center. A quick check into the mostly bare cupboards told Sunset that Twilight had not gone food shopping recently.

Tossing out the now rotten food, the skeleton found a package of what looked like dried crackers, which she brought out. Placing them beside the tea set, Sunset Shimmer sat across from Twilight who was awkwardly shifting on the couch.

Sunset Shimmer raised an eyebrow. “Are you alright?”

Twilight grumbled irritably to herself. “I’ve always had a bony ass, but now that statement is literal, I find myself unable to get comfortable.”

Sunset Shimmer snickered to herself. “I don't know what is bothering you. If anything, the couch is even more comfortable now that I don't have a butt.”

Settling into place, Twilight let out a sigh. “What time is it again?”

“It's still a half hour before they were supposed to arrive,” Sunset Shimmer replied. “You need to relax.”

“I can't relax,” Twilight stressed. “I nearly died again, and if I had listened to Pinkie Pie, that wouldn't have happened. Plus I’ve been avoiding them for two days, even Spike-”

Sunset Shimmer clopped her hooves together, silencing the other unicorn. “I would tell you to take a moment to breathe, but well… just try and focus yourself. Your friends will be happy you’re alive.”

“I know, but every time I get time to think, I can't help but worry all over again,” Twilight murmured.

“I know friendship is a relatively new thing for you, but you can't overthink it,” Sunset Shimmer advised. “Why don't we try and figure out how those books of yours got wet in the first place? I’m sure that will take your mind off of things.”

“That has been bothering me…”

“Do you have any leads?” Sunset questioned. “Because my surveillance of the place was relatively complete, and I didn't notice anyone enter the room at about that time.”

“Spike wasn't around then either,” Twilight added, tapping her chin. “It was also too far from the window, though this is a tree, so it's not like it's sealed or anything.”

“Can you view the memories of a tree with necromancy?” Sunset asked suddenly. “It is a living thing, after all.”

“And some fragments of a memory are stored in the soul,” Twilight finished. “You know, I’m not sure if I can, or can't, for that matter.”

“Well, there's only one way to find out,” Sunset proclaimed, opening her hooves and reclining into the sofa.

Twilight nodded slowly, and began to summon her magic, which took the form of a glowing violet aura which surrounded her flaming deep purple eyes. The first thing she did was reach out with her magic, searching for the surprisingly bright, but distant soul of the ancient tree. She didn't have to look long either, for it was as if the tree itself was guiding her and helping Twilight to find a verdant green orb deep beneath her hooves.

Touching the soul, Twilight began preparing the next part of her spell, only to have her senses suddenly overwhelmed. A memory built using pressure changes, the location of the moon, and the subtle shifting of the wind came to mind. Twilight was so startled by the very fact that she could perceive such things that she almost missed what the tree had been trying to show her.

Which felt like the room she had been storing the books in, if her assumption was correct. A second later, a pawed hand reached up onto the balcony, pulling open the sliding glass door and slipping inside. The paw held aloft what felt like a bucket of some kind, though Twilight didn't focus on that right now, as she was transfixed by the creature attached to the limb.

Which was a tall, strange mix of creatures which almost resembled Discord in a way, but not as how Twilight remembered him. The strange senses of the tree made identification difficult, but after a moment of confusion, Twilight felt it all fall into place. Sunset’s description of the creature helped her realize what she was perceiving, and Twilight watched in stunned confusion as the unnaturally long limb slipped closer to the books.

Questions swirled in the unicorn’s mind, threatening to overwhelm her, only to be shunted away when she felt the pail of water be tipped over. The tree felt the books being soaked, and Twilight watched as the paw slowly slipped out of the room, closing the exit behind it. The creature then gave the tree a gentle pat on the side before Twilight was thrust out of the bizarre memory and back onto the couch.

“What? How? But it…” If Twilight had a mane, she was certain it would have started to fray right about now. “This makes no sense!”

“Woah, what happened? You just kinda zonked out for a few seconds there,” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed.

“It was that thing! The forest chimera thing!” Twilight shouted. “It soaked the books for some reason.”

“That is… weird, why would it do that?” Sunset Shimmer pondered aloud.

“I have no idea!” Twilight exclaimed, pressing her hooves against either side of her skull. “My wards should have stopped it! You should have seen it! The guards and townspeople should have noticed it!”

“Woah there. Let's take a step back,” interrupted Sunset Shimmer. “This is the Everfree Forest we are talking about.”

Twilight’s jaw clacked together. “You’re right. I’m acting like I just got here or something. This isn't even the weirdest thing that's happened to me.”

“Really? ‘Cause finding out that some sort of precognitant chaos entity is following you around is pretty weird,” Sunset Shimmer pointed out.

“Pfft, that's nothing. I apparently have a whole prophecy dedicated to me,” Twilight stated offhandedly.

“Just pretend like I gave you a shocked expression,” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed, pointing to her face.

“Well, I shouldn't say it’s about me per say, as it's pretty vague, but everyone seems convinced it's about me,” Twilight began.

“What is it about exactly? You’re not the bringer of the end times, are you?” Sunset Shimmer pressed, lying down on her side.

Twilight chuckled. “You're actually right, well, sort of. It says that the moon comes when twilight calls and the world will burn in the fires of war for the final time.”

“That’s… dark,” Sunset Shimmer deadpanned. “Maybe you are the bringer of the end times after all.”

Twilight’s flaming orbs rolled in their sockets. “It does not mean that. I mean, come on. Twilight proceeds the night after all.”

“But that fires of war bit sounds pretty ominous, plus you can't deny that you and your past incarnations seemed to be tied to the alicorns of both the sun and moon,” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed.

“True,” Twilight grumbled. “I just wish that I wasn't being put on a path that seems to lead to some grand conflict. All I want is my brother and dad back. Then as far as I am concerned, the rest of the world can burn.”

“You can't tell, but I’m giving you a questioning look right now,” Sunset Shimmer deadpanned.

“Okay, so maybe not burn per say,” Twilight muttered, tapping her forehooves together. “If I could help, I would, but I just wish that it wouldn't be necessary and that things could go back to some version of normal.”

“Well, if it makes you feel any better, I’d be totally fine not going on any big adventures,” Sunset Shimmer offered. “In fact if I could open some sort of hospital or clinic of some kind and finally start healing ponies--I mean, people, I’d be totally fine with that for a century or two. I’m kind of done with the whole violence thing.”

“I don't think fate is going to let either of us live quietly. Not for a long time at least,” Twilight muttered bitterly.

The two undead sat in silence, with Sunset Shimmer trying to think of something to say and failing, while Twilight merely stared off into the distance, deep in thought. A knock on the door startled both of them, and Sunset stood quickly, about to walk over to the entrance, only to stop herself.

“You did warn them that we don't have flesh anymore, right?” Sunset inquired, glancing over her shoulder.

“I did,” Twilight replied. “I also mentioned that you were here as well.”

“Well, that's good,” Sunset Shimmer muttered, the skeleton peeking through the window next to the door. “It’s Rainbow Dash.’

“That's weird. She isn't usually early,” Twilight murmured. “Would you let her in please?”

“Of course,” Sunset replied.

The skeletal unicorn tugged open the door to reveal an armored, though not armed, Rainbow Dash standing in the entryway. Her expression was hard, her eyebrows creased as she looked Sunset Shimmer up and down in a slow exaggerated manner.

“Sunset Shimmer?” she asked.

The skeleton nodded. “You’re quite observant.”

The thestral snorted and trotted into the room. “Twi mentioned she lost her horn, plus she's taller than you.”

The other undead waved a bony hoof at the winged being. “Hey, Rainbow Dash. Sorry I didn't contact you sooner.”

“It's fine,” replied the thestral. “We know you need your space, but next time I am going to have to insist you at least check in with us before going into isolation.”

Sunset closed the door and followed after her, sitting on one of the chairs, while Rainbow Dash did likewise. “She didn't even want to send you the letters,” added Sunset.

“Is that right?” Rainbow Dash, turning to the taller skeleton.

Twilight silently wished Sunset had truly been evil the entire time, as she really wanted to hate the other unicorn at that moment. “That is true. I was nervous at first. Partly because I felt stupid for doubting Pinkie Pie, and partially because I wasn't sure if you’d accept me now that I look like this,” Twilight admitted.

Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow and glanced to Sunset. “I’m assuming you told her how stupid that was?” pressed the thestral.

Sunset Shimmer nodded. “I just had to point out the fact that there are literal emotivores, minotaurs, and spidertaurs walking around.”

“That's not the most polite way of putting it, but I’m glad you changed her mind,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

Twilight groaned. “I know I was overthinking things, but trust me. I feel a million times better now.”

“Good,” Rainbow Dash stated. “Because I don't think I could have held Fluttershy at bay for another day.”

The skeleton perked up suddenly. “How has she been, by the way? I haven't even checked in since she transformed into whatever it is she currently is.”

Rainbow Dash chuckled, a wide grin replacing her previously stoic expression. “She’s been fantastic. Her tree is growing strong, her grove is powerful, and she has a whole bevy of new abilities. Plus she has these luscious, kissable lips now.”

“You can't tell, but I’m fairly certain Twilight’s blushing right now,” Sunset Shimmer teasingly remarked.

“I don't even have any blood anymore!” Twilight cried, throwing up her hooves. “That makes no sense.”

“You were blushing on the inside,” Rainbow Dash offered.

“I don't have insides either!” Twilight added, her fake outrage slowly being replaced with mirth.

“At least you still got your sense of humour,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “As for our resident sunspawn, the jury is still out, but I got a good feeling about you.”

“Uh thanks? But what's a sunspawn?” Sunset questioned, turning to Twilight expectantly.

“I’ll tell you later. It's not exactly a bad thing though,” Twilight replied.

“I would beg to differ, but anyway. I’m just glad things have worked out so well for both you and Sunset Shimmer here,” Rainbow Dash concluded, chuckling to herself. “‘Cause I don't know how much longer I could have held onto the tough guy routine.”

“I was wondering why you were acting so serious,” Twilight quipped.

“I just wanted to see how Sunset reacted,” Rainbow Dash explained. “It's not everyday one of her assassins gets killed only to be brought back to life as an ally.”

“Then you really do see me as an ally?” Sunset Shimmer hesitantly asked.

“Yes and no,” Rainbow Dash shrugged. “I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt, but trust takes time. Something you’ve got in spades, I think.”

“Time or not, something tells me old age wasn't going to be my killer anyway,” Sunset Shimmer remarked.

Rainbow Dash chuckled. “That is so true. Twilight tends to attract adventure.”

The necromancer crossed her forelegs over her chest. “You say that like it's a bad thing.”

The thestral waved a dismissive hoof at the other being. “Nah, you know I like a little adventure. Besides, it's all worked out for us so far.”

“Let’s just hope your luck continues to hold,” Sunset Shimmer added.

“Let’s hope,” Twilight echoed solemnly, only to perk up. “Hey, where is Fluttershy anyway? I thought she would have come with you.”

“Nah, I went ahead in order to give ya the old bad cop routine,” Rainbow Dash began, stretching a leathery wing. “Flutters wouldn't be able to stand me asking a few hard questions. Speaking of which, Sunset is completely free, right?”

Twilight opened her mouth to speak, but Sunset Shimmer beat her to the punch. “Completely and utterly,” stated the skeletal pony. “Twilight and I have used every manner of dispel we can think of.”

Twilight nodded. “After death enchantments and compulsions fade as they are anchored directly to the flesh. Only necromancy can alter a pony in such a way that those changes would stay after death, and she may be many things but a necromancer isn't one of them.”

“Huh, well, so long as you're sure. I know the other girls were curious, so I thought I’d ask,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

A very soft knock on the door made the thestral smirk. “That would be Fluttershy.”

“I’ll get it,” Sunset offered, standing up before anyone could respond and walking over to the door.

Pulling open the wooden portal, the undead unicorn was prepared to find herself face to face with another strange being. Only to be a little surprised and put off when there was no one there at all.

“Hello?” she asked, looking around.

“Oh um, down here,” whispered a soft, squeaky voice.

Glancing down, Sunset Shimmer noticed a small, strange-looking mouse looking up at her, the rodent sporting a small flower atop its head. The undead unicorn found herself temporarily at a loss for words, that was until she remembered what Twilight had told her earlier.

“You’re Fluttershy, right?” Sunset Shimmer questioned.

“I am,” stated the mouse.

The unicorn took a step back and held open the door. “Come on in, and sorry for not recognizing you sooner.”

“Oh, it's quite alright,” murmured the small rodent, who scampered inside.

Closing the door, Sunset Shimmer stepped closer to the couches, though she didn't sit down this time. Instead she merely stood behind Twilight, allowing her to keep one eye on the door while still being a part of the conversation.

Fluttershy leaped into the air, turning into a cat mid-flight and landing in Rainbow Dash’s lap, purring contentedly as soon as she settled in.

“Miss me already?” Rainbow Dash teased, running a hoof down Fluttershy’s furry back.

“Maybe,” Fluttershy half admitted, blushing slightly.

“I’m glad you’re adapting well to your new form,” Twilight offered.

The cat nodded. “It took a little practice, but that doesn't matter right now. How are you?”

“I’m not bad, all things considered,” Twilight stated, extending a forelimb. “At least I finally dropped those pesky pounds.”

Fluttershy giggled. “I’m glad you feel that way. And Sunset? How are you dealing with well… everything?”

The unicorn wished she could smile as the kind look the cat was giving her made Sunset’s nonexistent heart swell. “The joy of freedom has not been lessened, even after being turned into a walking anatomy model,” Sunset explained.

Rainbow Dash laughed aloud. “You know I never thought of it that way. Oh, and think of all the awesome pranks we could pull!”

“Too bad April is so far away,” Sunset remarked, sighing softly.

“But Nightmare Night isn't far away,” exclaimed Rainbow Dash excitedly.

“What's Nightmare Night?” asked the confused unicorn.

“It's a different version of All Saint’s Eve,” explained Twilight. “But instead of honoring those who served the old gods, they honor the moon.”

“It's not just about that,” Rainbow Dash countered. “It's also about gaining independence and celebrating both the night mistress and the other great heroes.”

“It's not as serious as what Saint’s Eve sounds like either,” Fluttershy added, the spirit nestling itself in Rainbow Dash’s forehooves.

“It is a rather heavy holiday,” Sunset Shimmer remarked. “At least they stopped sacrificing animals.”

“I don't remember that ever happening,” countered Twilight, curiously.

“I suppose it has been a number of years since then,” Sunset Shimmer remarked, scratching her skull. “Sorry, my sense of time is a little mixed up.”

“That's understandable, given what you’ve gone through,” Twilight admitted.

“Anyway,” Rainbow Dash interrupted, picking up her girlfriend and looking her in the eye. “Is there anything you wanted to ask before the others get here?”

The cat giggled and shook her head. “No. I’m just glad that everyone is okay.”

“More or less anyway,” Twilight added, chuckling.

“Is there not a spell to get your body back?” asked Fluttershy, the spirit transforming into a bird and sitting atop Rainbow Dash’s head.

“Apotheosis is the spell’s name, and though it would most likely give me back my body, it would take a very large amount of energy to do so,” Twilight shrugged. “I’m not worried though. I’ll just craft a better illusion spell before going back out in public and then just save up in order to cast it.”

“I wouldn't worry about it. Most folk aren't easily spooked around here,” Rainbow Dash retorted.

“I’ll say,” muttered Sunset Shimmer. “The only thing that seems to unnerve Ponyvillians are people from outside the forest.”

“We don't exactly get a lot of visitors with good intentions,” Fluttershy remarked with a hint of sadness.

A light, rapid tapping sound made the room’s inhabitants turn towards the door once more. Striding over, the Sunset Shimmer turned the handle and tugged open the wooden portal. A tall arachne, as well as a short, diminutive dragon stood in the doorway, and Sunset Shimmer was about to bid them welcome when she got a scaled fist to the chin.

Her head popped off her neck and clattered to the ground, leaving the unicorn quite confused by the entire encounter. “What just happened?” she asked, body frozen mid-invitation.

“Oh my,” whispered Fluttershy, covering her beak with a wing.

“Spike! I thought we talked about how to deal with your anger,” reprimanded Rarity, who tugged on the dragon’s ear.

Spike winced. “Hey, I’m sorry, but seeing her standing there made it all come back.”

“It's fine. Though I’d appreciate it if someone grabbed my head,” Sunset Shimmer replied quickly. “It's hard to cast stuff while everything is upside down.”

“Of course, darling,” Rarity replied, plucking the skeleton’s head from the ground and awkwardly placing it atop the unicorn’s neck.

Gripping her skull in her forehooves, Sunset pressed down at the top of her head until it clicked. “Ahh, there we go. Nice right hook by the way, you’re pretty quick on the draw.”

“Gale taught me how to fight,” Spike began, only to wince. “Sorry. I know I shouldn't have lashed out like that.”

“You’re not a child Spike,” scorned Twilight who trotted up next to the dragon.

“It's fine, really,” Sunset Shimmer interrupted. “It didn't actually hurt, and honestly I’m just surprised it hadn't happened sooner.”

“I was tempted,” admitted Rainbow Dash.

“Rainbow,” Fluttershy whispered harshly, shooting the thestral a glare.

Who shrugged. “What? It's true.”

“How about we all sit down and have a little chat, hmm?” Rarity inquired, the arachne striding towards the sitting area. “I’m sure some tea and relaxation will do us all wonders.”

Twilight and Spike did as was suggested, while Sunset Shimmer remained behind, working her jaw into place. Only when everything felt like it was where it should be did the skeleton follow their lead, taking her place behind Twilight once more.

“So, how have you been holding up?” Rarity inquired, her voice straining ever so slightly.

Twilight shrugged. “Not bad honestly. I already didn't eat, so it's not like this is a big change for me.”

“You know I thought I would have been more creeped out, but I suppose living with my Twilight made me rather numb to the whole undead situation,” Spike remarked, the dragon glancing at the skeleton sitting next to him.

“I told ya most people would be fine with it,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, gesturing towards the arachne. “Rarity is the only one who's probably weirded out by this whole thing.”

“Oh, it's nothing like that,” Rarity quickly retorted. “It's just that, well, you look rather ghastly, I must say. If we just added a cloak, a hood, and some jewelry, you could make this new style work, but well, without it you appear to be a runaway medical skeleton.”

“Ha, that's what I said,” Sunset Shimmer exclaimed.

“I don't intend on looking like this for long, mind you,” Twilight began. “I had thought the nightmare could disguise me, but it does not seem able to do so.”

The taller unicorn’s shadow shrunk, as if disappointed in itself.

“Ahh, in that case I will extend my services to just Sunset Shimmer then,” Rarity replied, turning to the other undead. “That is, unless she has grown to enjoy her current look.”

“I’d appreciate it, though I don't exactly have any bits or gems for that matter,” Sunset declared.

“Nonsense, darling,” dismissed the arachne. “All I ask for in return is to have a relaxed conversation with you.”

“That seems…” Sunset Shimmer paused, noticing that everyone else had suddenly grown pale, “...nice?”

The arachne clapped her forehooves together. “Excellent, then we are in agreement, and I will see you tomorrow at eleven sharp.”

Sunset leaned forward, whispering in Twilight’s ear hole. “Why did everyone get so serious all of a sudden?”

“When Rarity says she wants to have a relaxed conversation, what she actually wants to do is to roast you over an open fire,” Twilight whispered back. “Good luck having secrets when she’s done with you.”

“It couldn't be that bad, could it?” Sunset Shimmer muttered aloud, glancing over at Rarity.

Who had already sparked up another conversation while Twilight and Sunset had been whispering. When their eyes met, the arachne’s gaze narrowed, and a flicker of something indescribable passed through them. Sunset’s bones shuddered, and the undead unicorn wondered if the free outfit would even be worth it.

“Well, I’m glad that you are doing well, and that our town’s newest resident is settling in,” Rarity exclaimed, gesturing towards Sunset Shimmer.

“Speaking of which,” Rainbow Dash interrupted. “You gotta stop by the tower sometime soon. You’re going to need to become a citizen if you plan on sticking around.”

“What exactly do I have to do?” Sunset Shimmer inquired.

“It's not much, just answer a few questions, sign some things and swear that your aren't a threat,” Twilight answered.

“Pretty much,” Rainbow Dash added. “Though you may have a few extra interviews due to your unique history.”

“I wouldn't worry about it. Dark Hallow is a total sweetheart,” offered Fluttershy, who had turned to a snake and draped herself across Rainbow Dash’s shoulders.

“Well, that's good,” Sunset Shimmer murmured.

“Plus I’ve told him a little about you, so it's not like he has to start at square one,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

A firm, heavy knock ended the conversation abruptly, causing everyone in the room to turn towards the door.

“I got it,” Sunset Shimmer hastily exclaimed, trotting over to the entrance and turning the knob.

Revealing a frowning half plant and half earth pony hybrid, as well as a rock-covered pink pony standing nervously behind her.

“You must be-” Sunset Shimmer began, only to be interrupted when Applejack held up a hoof, silencing her.

Confused, Sunset Shimmer merely stood there while the strange pony looked her up and down in a slow, exaggerated motion. Seconds ticked by, and just when Sunset Shimmer was going to say something, Applejack nodded slowly, extending a hoof.

“Name’s Applejack,” she offered.

Sunset Shimmer clopped her bony hoof against the offered limb. “Sunset Shimmer.”

“Finally!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed, throwing up her hooves. “I thought I was going to explode back here!”

Sunset Shimmer hardly had time to react before she was bowled over by a hulking earth pony, her bony chest pressed against the larger being’s stone and flesh one. “You know, I’m kind of glad I don't need to breathe, because something tells me I wouldn't be able to do that right now,” Sunset Shimmer remarked, hugging the troll awkwardly.

“That's how you know it's a good hug,” Pinkie Pie replied, pulling back and holding Sunset Shimmer off the ground. “I’m so glad that everything worked out and that you’re free!”

“Me too?” Sunset Shimmer half asked half stated, glancing to Applejack for answers.

The plant pony merely grunted and kicked the door shut. “She’s a shaman, they know all kinds of stuff that they probably shouldn't.”

“Like your crush’s name is-” Pinkie Pie began, only for Applejack to stuff a hoof into her mouth.

“I wasn't askin’ for an example,” muttered the farmer, who took a step back.

“Oh, I don't actually know her name, silly. I’m just teasing you,” Pinkie Pie replied, placing Sunset Shimmer on the ground and bounding over towards the couches.

“Wait, her?” Sunset Shimmer asked, turning to Applejack.

Who snorted bitterly. “She’s just trying to get a rise out of me.”

Despite the force behind the statement, Sunset Shimmer had a feeling there was some truth to the shaman’s words. Not wanting to step on anyone’s hooves so soon after meeting them for the first time, Sunset chose to say nothing. Instead she merely wandered back to her now familiar spot behind Twilight, listently to the conversation that had broken out.

“--how does next Thursday sound?” Pinkie Pie questioned, the troll having procured a notebook and pencil from somewhere.

“I really don't think-” Twilight began.

“Next Thursday is perfect. I know she doesn't have anything planned,” interrupted Spike.

“Hey! I had plans,” Twilight countered.

“Studying doesn't count,” Spike stated, crossing his arms over his chest.

“Fine, but don't invite too many people over. I don't want to freak people out,” Twilight cautioned.

“Pisha, we can just say it’s an early Nightmare Night celebration,” Pinkie Pie replied dismissively. “Everyone loves costume parties.”

“I’m just glad you’re alright,” declared Applejack, the plant pony gripping Twilight by the shoulder. “Y'all had us so worried that I nearly busted down that door of yours.”

“I have no doubt that you could have,” Twilight remarked, smiling. “Though I’m glad you gave me time to process things at my own speed.”

“It's no problem at all, darling,” Rarity offered.

“Group hug!” Pinkie Pie shouted, the troll leaping out of her chair and wrapping her forelegs around Twilight’s shoulders.

Applejack chuckled. “Aww, what the heck.”

The plant pony was quickly followed by Spike, who latched onto Twilight’s neck. “I’m glad you're alright, Dusk.”

Twilight chuckled and patted the dragon on the back. “Me too, Spike.”

Fluttershy joined them a second later, the spirit having returned to her pony form. “I’m proud of you for working things out with Sunset Shimmer.”

“And I’m just thankful that we didn't have to clean up the mess you two left behind,” added Rainbow Dash, who joined the hug a second later.

Rarity wrapped her own forehooves around the mass of beings a second later. “I too am glad you are okay. Though you are not allowed to scare us like this for at least another few months, got it?”

Twilight knew if she had flesh, she would be blushing right now, and she eagerly hugged everyone back as much as she could, warmth filling her chest. “I will do my absolute best, you guys. Thank you,” Twilight replied.

Sunset couldn't help but smile as she watched the pile of strange beings hug their friend, even if a small bit of guilt continued to burn at the back of her mind. Still, it was a sight that warmed her metaphorical heart and gave her hope that even somepony like her could find friends as good as them. The unicorn’s musings slipped away when she noticed a soft purple glow emanate from the center of the group hug.

“Are you casting a spell, Twilight?” Sunset Shimmer asked.

Twilight blinked, and her friends all pulled away from her, glancing at the undead unicorn in confusion. “No, not that I know of.”

“Maybe it’s ghost farts,” offered Pinkie Pie.

“It wasn't me,” declared Fluttershy, blushing furiously.

“Ghosts don't fart, you nincompoop,” added Rainbow Dash.

“Er Twi, is your butt supposed to be glowing like that?” inquired Applejack.

Twilight looked down to where an ethereal star glowed faintly over where her flank would normally be. Upon closer inspection Twilight realized that it was her cutie mark, only it shone far more brilliantly than ever before. The five smaller stars were also glowing their own unique colors, each one corresponding with one of her friend’s coat colors.

“I don't-” Twilight began, only to be shocked when flesh began to grow up from her hooves.

Muscle and cartilage were quickly covered with deep purple skin and similarly colored fur. Before anypony could mutter a word in shock, Twilight’s cutie mark pulsed, and tissues began to surge up Twilight’s legs. In seconds all four of her limbs were returned to their natural fleshy state, only now they seemed a little longer, and Twilight’s fur was a little lighter.

Where before the unicorn had been such a deep purple that it was nearly black, now it was a vibrant lavender that almost shimmered in the moonlight. Her torso received the same treatment as her legs did a moment later, the rippling wave of flesh traveling up to her neck. Though unlike before, the changes to the middle of her body were more obvious, with her body having become remarkably thinner.

Though her ribs weren't quite visible, the pony appeared gaunt, with little muscle present anywhere on her body. It was as if the undead mare lacked a good majority of the organs a living pony may have, leaving her appearing abnormally thin. Her cutie mark was also brighter, and more vibrant than before, the entire thing shimmering whenever the moonlight struck it at the right angle.

The rippling wave of flesh quickly traveled up Twilight’s neck, new tissue formed, shaped, and grown into place in a matter of moments. Throughout it all Twilight felt only the slightest bit of irritation, with her bones itching despite such a thing being logically impossible. Even as her face gained muscle, skin, sinew, and fur, the experience was little more than slightly uncomfortable to the undead pony.

A new mane sprouted from her scalp, and new eyes filled the previously empty skull, causing Twilight to be temporarily blinded. Blinking rapidly, she looked around in confusion, noting the stunned looks on everyone’s faces. Glancing up between her eyes, Twilight felt hope surge, only for that feeling to be crushed when she realized that her horn remained little more than a shattered splinter sticking out of her forehead.

The changes were not quite done though, and as Twilight looked on, her tail grew back to its regular length. Even her mane returned to its normal style, with the bangs only reaching just past the tops of her eyes before the two strips of color grew. Conjuring a mirror, Twilight noted that her mane was back the way it used to be, though her eyes now glowed a menacing purple.

Wisps of magic could also be seen drifting from the edges, becoming an almost ethereal smoke that drifted behind her. Inspecting herself briefly, Twilight found that other than being unnaturally thin, everything seemed to be back to the way it used to be. Nervously, Twilight stepped forward, silently hoping that her old awkward fumbling had not returned along with everything else.

When she didn't immediately fall, Twilight grinned, and after trotting around in a circle, the unicorn found she was even more coordinated than before. Indeed she felt almost like she had just finished puberty, and was now in the body she had always meant to have. Her every sense felt sharp, and if she focused, she could even feel what the nightmare felt, including a strange tugging sensation that she quickly dismissed.

“Holy crap,” Rainbow Dash muttered.

“How are you feeling, darling?” Rarity asked hesitantly.

Twilight shook her head slowly. “Amazing, completely and utterly amazing. I can sense every living thing around me, and not only that, but I also feel strong, resilient even.”

Pinkie Pie punched the unicorn in the shoulder, only to recoil and shake her foreleg while wincing. “Wowee, you are tough. Even tougher than when you were wearing that amulet doohickey.”

“Taller too,” remarked Applejack, who had to look up at the towering unicorn.

“Too bad your horn didn't come back,” exclaimed Spike.

Twilight shrugged. “It's fine. I only need my necromancy anyway.”

“You look so thin though, that can't be healthy,” Fluttershy pointed out.

“I guess you could use even more meat on those bones,” chuckled Pinkie Pie.

Twilight rolled her eyes and grinned. “I suppose so. Though something tells me I don't have all the same parts that you girls do.”

“I wonder if you can taste stuff again. Hey, open your mouth. Let's see if you got taste buds on that tongue of yours,” Applejack commanded.

Twilight did as she was told, revealing a mouth filled mostly with flat teeth, a long tongue and four very prominent canines. “Well, at least you got a tongue anyway, even if it seems a little long,” Applejack muttered.

“Wicked set of chompers you got there, almost as cool as mine,” proclaimed Rainbow Dash, who rolled back her lips to show off her own fangs.

“They look sharp,” pointed out Spike curiously.

Twilight took a step back, running her tongue along the inside of her mouth. “Well, would you look at that. They are pretty sharp.”

“Hold on a second,” Sunset Shimmer interrupted, stepping forward. “What exactly does that make you then?”

“Well, she isn't a skeleton anymore,” remarked Pinkie Pie.

“Vampire? She's got the fangs for it,” Spike offered.

“Nah, those are canines,” replied Rainbow Dash. “She has to be a wight.”

“But I thought they hated all living things,” pondered Fluttershy.

“Well, I sure don't hate any of you,” Twilight quickly added.

“And she doesn't like eatin’ dead stuff, so she ain't a ghoul,” exclaimed Applejack.

“What about a lich?” offered Sunset Shimmer. “Or perhaps a revenant?”

“Wait, where do you even know those terms from? I thought she erased all knowledge of the undead,” Twilight retorted.

Sunset Shimmer scratched the back of her neck. “I may or may not have watched Spike when he went to that last gaming meetup.”

“Okay, first off, that’s creepy, second off, you gotta join us. We need another player,” Spike declared, a smile overcoming his brief look of disgust.

“Well, I don't think I’m either of those things,” exclaimed Twilight. “I didn't undergo any manner of ritual or cast anything right before my death, nor do I feel like a spirit possessing a corpse.”

“What about a draugr? They are said to be both alive and dead at the same time,” asked Rarity. “What? Do I have something on my face?”

“Where do you know that from?” questioned Rainbow Dash.

Rarity sighed and stared off into the distance. “It was the summer of my sixteenth year and this strapping young minotaur had just come into town. They were absolutely stunning, and after finding out that they came from the northern reaches, I devoted myself to learning as much as I could about their culture and history. Why, I even attempted to make them a traditional Minotaurian cape with this lovely-”

“I don't think we have time for your life story there, Rares,” Applejack deadpanned.

The arachne sighed and crossed her hooves over her chest. “Ruin all of the intrigue, why don't you? Regardless, these draugr appeared after a being of significant desire was buried improperly. They also were said to appear much like they did in life, only pale, as if they had only come back to life after remaining dead for several days.”

“Well, my fur is a little lighter,” Twilight remarked, glancing down at her foreleg.

“I thought draugr were from that one expansion, the rim of the sky,” remarked Rainbow Dash.

“Wait, you play?” Spike questioned.

“I think we’re getting off topic,” Sunset Shimmer interrupted.

“Whatever Twilight is, she is our friend,” Fluttershy declared. “And that is all that matters.”

“Exactamundo!” Pinkie Pie proclaimed.

“I agree, darling,” added Rarity, who sat back down upon her pillow and reached for the tea pot.

“Good thinkin’, Rares, I could use something to drink after all this excitement,” Applejack added, the plant pony resting on the ground next to her friend.

“And I brought cookies!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed, pulling a box of baked goods out of seemingly thin air and placing them on the table.

Twilight watched as the lid was removed, revealing what appeared to be a two dozen double chocolate fudge cookies. Grabbing one with her magic, the unicorn took a bite, bracing herself for the usual feeling of strangeness that came whenever she had tried to eat something. Instead of feeling uncomfortable, she was blasted with an intense chocolate flavor, one which she had not tasted in what felt like years.

“Are you… crying?” asked Sunset Shimmer.

Twilight sniffed. “Ish sho goob.”

“Oh my gosh, you can actually eat normal stuff and cry without killing stuff with your tears!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed, gasping suddenly. “There are so many recipes I’m going to have to try on you!”

“Well, that's good to see. I’d hate for you to miss out on all the Nightmare Night sweets,” Applejack remarked before biting into her own cookie.

Twilight hardly even heard her friends’ remarks, as she was slowly nibbling on the cookie, letting its flavor wash over her before swallowing. Even the feeling of the baked good sliding down her throat felt bizarrely nice, and Twilight relished every moment. When it was gone, the unicorn closed her eyes and merely breathed softly, her mind conjuring images of the last time she had eaten something so delicious.

It had been before her life had changed, and it had been a day when just her mother had been home. It had been a quiet afternoon and together the two ponies had baked a pan of cookies together before eating a few on the back porch. The sun had already sunk below their house, casting the yard in shadow, though neither pony minded one bit.

Their company was all that mattered, and they were both intent on enjoying the quiet moment to its fullest. Opening her eyes, Twilight couldn't help but smile as she watched her friends talk, eat, and drink. It wasn't quite like the moment she had with her mother, but it put Twilight’s heart at ease just the same.

Sunset Shimmer walked down the wooden steps as slowly and as softly as her bony hooves would allow. Once on the main floor, Sunset turned, quickly trotting into the basement and closing the door behind her. It was a short walk later and she was standing beside Twilight, who was applying a thin greenish paste to a lingering burn mark on the living wall of the library.

“How was Spike?” she asked without turning around.

“Asleep before I could even put him to bed,” Sunset Shimmer replied. “It was actually really cute.”

“He is pretty adorable, huh,” Twilight murmured, the unicorn sealing the jar of liquid and placing it on a nearby table.

“That he is,” Sunset admitted. “That little tea party really took a lot out of him.”

“Rarity did mention that he wasn't sleeping well at her house,” Twilight remarked. “I’m just glad to have him home.”

“Speaking of Rarity and the rest of your friends. Why didn't you tell them about your plan to secure that tablet I told you about?” Sunset questioned.

“I wasn't planning on doing that,” Twilight answered, though her statement felt oddly hollow, even to her.

“Come on, Twilight. Of course you’re planning on acquiring it,” Sunset Shimmer deadpanned. “Not only am I certain that you would do so out of sheer curiosity, it's also connected to your past self and Luna.”

“I suppose I was thinking about tracking it down and bringing it back here,” Twilight exclaimed. “But after I regrew my, well, everything, things changed.”

“Oh? How so?” Sunset Shimmer pressed.

“I can feel a tugging at the back of my mind. It's as if the nightmare is trying to pull me somewhere, though I don't know where,” Twilight answered, her expression growing distant for a second.

“You don't think it's trying to bring you to Luna’s body, is it?” Sunset half asked, half stated.

“I’m not sure what to think,” Twilight stated, sighing. “All I know for certain is that we need more information before we start acting.”

“And I’m assuming you have a plan to get such needed info?” Sunset Shimmer replied.

“I do, but the service is back on for Friday, and before then I need to practice a few spells to ensure I’m ready for any potential confrontation that may arise for when we grab the tablet,” Twilight declared.

“You know, I could train you on a few things,” Sunset offered, trotting before the other unicorn and looking up at her. “You may not be able to cast normal spells anymore, but I do know a few tricks that should be able to help you.”

Twilight wanted to resist, but after a moment of hesitation, she nodded. “I would like that. It would be good to get some help rather than always figure things out by myself.”

“As long as I’m around, you won't ever have to worry about figuring it out alone ever again,” Sunset replied, extending a hoof. “Are you ready for this?”

Twilight grinned and clopped her hoof against Sunset’s. “As ready as I’ll ever be.”

If you want to read the next updates for my biggest stories at the begining of the month rather at the end, or want to get a commission from me as well as access to patreon exclusive content, and the chance to submit story requests every month, head over to my patreon!

Join me over on patreon and get instant access to exclusive content and early looks at new stories, patreon only stories and other great stuff! Check it out!
Or just join the discord to ensure that you dont miss an update.
This update was made possible by the wonderful support of readers like you: Apollyon6024, Astor Corruscare, BeenMcsqueen, Blade Tech, Canaray in the coal mine, ceepert, Corey Peters, Craig Aoki, Dale Maines, DioKyo, Doomgooey, Dragons'Sheppard1995, Facinus, Free, Grub, Ivar, Jacob Hawkins, Jacob Lorenzo, Jeffrey Perigo, Jwarrior, Kali, Lich-Lord Krosis, M, Makani, Megatyrant, Menthol Qtip, Mephia Keibin, Mike, Mikhalia Banks, Mirvra, Mop Hop, Nathan Brown, Nfreak, Octavia & Lowbar, Pacsik, Peter Coulthard, Prysm, Random reader, Ray Man, Rhys Southall, Soundtea, Starless, Steven Lawrence, Tiwake, Todd Herron, Trash Panda, Travis Houck, Venerable Ro, Vigilant Watch, Hannibal, aaaand Xvos1337!