Ch01: Twilight's Pony Tale Part 1

In Equestria, a land of ponies, there is the great Queen, and her Sister, both of whom rule the Day and Night respectively. Some time ago, they changed from the four legged talking ponies, into those who walked on two legs, their fore hooves, transformed into hands with fingers, and since that day, they have began to evolve their very way of life.

Now most ponies are very social, and love to make new friends. So a company that was well known for their entertainment devices, created an omni device, called the “Bayland Beyond”, often shorten to “Bay-B”. A social device able to connect all of Equestria, without any need of lines, or face to face contact. Friendships bloomed all over, and ponies who may never have met, became closer then friends they had near by.

Since most ponies were social, it did not mean all were, and some are reclusive. Not because they are antisocial, but simply because they cannot pry themselves from their books.

Twilight Sparkle, the current student of the Queen Celestia, is such a pony. She is a gifted Unicorn, that Celestia took under her wings, to teach the ways of magick that only the Great Queen knew. She was a great student, and learned quickly, but her thirst for knowledge, and desire to learn, has made her a shut in. This concerned the Queen greatly as she knew that, although Twilight would become a great Unicorn, she would ultimately be less of a pony if she did not gain life lessons. She needed to get out into the world, and experience things, that not even the best books, could ever teach.

She needed to experience the joys of laughter, the pain of sorrow. What it was like to share loves, and to experience first hoof, what it meant to live.

She could learn all the magick in the libraries, but she could only live through...

Twilight Sparkle, a violet unicorn, with deep purple hair, with as streak of lighter purple besides a magenta one. dressed in her student cloths, almost robe liken to that of wizards, but far less baggy and covering. It was more like a vest over her normal clothing. She stood before her Queen and mentor, pleading with her. "But why? Am I failing? I will study harder, I do not want to learn from anypony else!"

Celestia, dressed in her royal garments, white with golden sun armor she always presented herself in in public with, as well as any royal matters. Looking on her student, and smiled to attempt to reassure her, that she was not being punished. "No, no, my most faithful student. This is no act of detention, it is a new lesson you must experience"

"I will read anything, I just do not wish to leave here" She was nearly in tears, she had not been away from Canterlot, much less Celestia, since she began her lessons years ago.

"The fact you keep your muzzle glued to those books, is why I am sending you off" She stepped closer, putting her fore hoof onto Twilight's shoulder. "You need to make friends, to experience the aspects of social life"

"Then I will spend more time with Queen Luna’s student Harmony Spirit, or any of the other ponies around here" She was sounding more desperate.

Celestia walked farther away, feeling a bit disappointed in herself. "I should have put her into the world sooner, now she is bound tighter then her tomes" She thought to herself. "Canterlot, is a wonderful place, full of great ponies, but it is not the life experience you need to be a whole pony" She turned toward Twilight. "This place is too sterile, and pure. Life is not, as sad as it maybe. But the conflicts in life, also gives rise to things unexpected, that balance out the bad, and often, out weighs them"

She paced a bit, as she could tell Twilight was still not allowing herself to embrace this study. "As I young Princess, I traveled this country, even beyond, but my travels made me grow, and I am thankful for it. One place really blossomed my growth. Ponyville, and over the years, it's held onto the values that it was founded on" She stopped, and looked at her student. "Ponyville Tech, will not only continue your lessons, but also give you the opportunities to grow heart and soul"

Twilight looked down, still not welcoming this big change in her life. "I will of course... do as you wish..."

"Do not take it so hard, treat this as the new assignment. Like when I've had you out on field lessons. Learn the meaning of being a friend, and what it is to have friends. What life is like for those not within the walls of a castle. Take notes, and report back to me. Use that Bay-B I gave you"

She pulled a purple and green device out of her pocket. "This? But it's just a toy"

The Queen laughed gently. "No, that is a device for socializing. I gave it too you to hopefully expand your world. I am surprised you do not know how it works, did you not read the manual?"

Twilight pocketed it, and curled her ears back in embarrassment. "Well.. I have been busy with other studies..."

"To think, you passed up a chance to read on something wholly new" She smiled, and came to her again. "You will be fine without me down the hall, and you will gain confidence in yourself as well"

***

No longer in the robe, now dressed in just her casual wear, a sleeveless hoodie, plain shirt, and shorts. she rode in the private chariot from Canterlot to Ponyville. Celestia had watched over Twilight for so long, she was like a mother, and so such privileges as this ride, came with being the Queen's "daughter". Also, the full tuition in the college, and set up with a dorm, and having the allowance to spend to live in her home for the next couple years.

She decided to land outside the town limits, so not to draw attention. She grabbed her saddle bag. She had only a few needs with her, her other effects would come to her dorm room later. She was kind of hoping her things would already be there, but she was not sure if it would be so.

With her bag in hoof, and set around her hips, she thanked the Strong Pegasus, who pulled the cart through the sky.

She lifted her hand, and looked at it. "I forgot my late" She turned back, but the chariot was gone. "Oh mare, I hope they have coffee at least" She looked toward the town, seeing some activity from her spot. "Celestia said it was a more rural town"

She walked toward the town, and as she neared, it grew bigger, and she saw more life. It was nothing like the markets back home, but not the one pony town she imagined either. The buildings were modern, but with old fashion touch. Every where there was development, looked like it was made to accommodated nature, more than the folks here. She saw many shops, and ponies who did not seem much unlike her. It made her feel a little easier, but she still could not handle the social aspect just yet.

She looked around, too nervous to ask for a coffee shop. In her scan, she noticed a few things she had not given much thought too. There was mostly Earth ponies, but saw some Pegasus, and one or two Unicorns. She also spotted a couple other creatures. Young dragons, Antrhoids, and a few other species from outside Equestria’s boarders. Some she could not place.

“Seems Ponyville is more lively then I thought it would be” As she was thinking to herself, she spotted a place that seem to be just what she was looking for.

"Apple Cider's: Farm Fresh Food, and drinks" She read, and on the window read "Cafe open"

She trotted in, and the place looked like a diner, but also had the elements of a coffee shop. "Wow, maybe I can get a latte or something" A sign she spotted said to seat herself, and wait for service. So she obeyed.

She found an open booth, and set up some of her books on the table, with plenty of room to work. She pulled out two books, a "Guide to Ponyville" and "History of Ponyville" Before she could look into either, an Orange coloured pony came up to her. Dressed in work appropriate cloths, with an apron over with the store logo and name. Hair braided, both mane and tail.

"Well How do miss" She said, and Twilight nearly jumped, and looked over. "H-hello..."

"I'm Applejack, and I'll be waiting on y'all today" She had a charming southern accent, and a welcoming smile. "Say, you don't seem too familiar, you new to these parts?"

"Yes... I'm Twilight Sparkle, I came from Canterlot, to attend college here"

"A pleasure make'n you acquaintance miss Twilight" She said. "Canterlot huh? Go figure. I'd imagine them castle schools would be much nicer then this one here"

"Well, I would not know, I was privately taught, but they decided that I should seek some unique lessons here. You do not happen to be attending there too?"

Applejack shook her head. "Na, I finished my lessons in high school. I enjoyed where I was in life, so no need to go out getting more learning. I like working the farm, and the shop here. Family owned for many generations" She pointed to the counter, at a red stallion, who was working back in the kitchen. "That's my older brother, Big Macintosh, or Mac if y'all like. He don't mind too much" She then pointed at a little filly trotting around with some food. "That there is my lil'sis Apple Bloom. And Granny Smith is about some place. She don't move to fast no more, but still likes to keep active"

"A nice family" Twilight was not too sure what to say.

"Thank ya, we may not run one of those big companies, or dressing ponies in the latest styles, but we be keep'n everypony fed, and happy" She paused. "Oh my, I completely forgot. What can I get y'all?"

"oh yeah, well, what do you have in the way of latte, or coffee?"

"How about I whip y'all up an Applejava, guarantee y'all love it. Best we have, accord’n to me. Course I'm not much for that stuff. I like teas or Cider for hot drinks" She started to trot off. "I'll be back sugar cube" she said with a wink.

"Uh..ok..." She figured best not to argue with her. So she returned her attention to the books. "Wonder if all the ponies here are so friendly?" She asked out loud, to no pony, but one heard.

"Mostly. Kinda sickening at times" A voice came.

Twilight looked around, till she heard a sound behind her. A blue Pegasus with a wild spiked rainbow mane, propped up on the back of the booth seat. "So, from Canterlot? Names Rainbow Dash"

Twilight looked at her funny. "You were listening to us?"

"Yeah, bad habit, really have to stop it some time" She said so uncaring. "So is all of Canterlot a castle, or just the Queen's place?"

The violet unicorn was a bit annoyed. "Well, the whole place is part of the castle, but as far as looks, only the Castle it self is-" Rainbow cut her off. "Ever see the Wonder Bolts? I'm going to be one some day" "really?" Twilight replied with little interest. "Everfree yeah, but I have to deal with school first. They only take graduates into their ranks"

Twilight was about to shrug her off, but caught what she said. "Wait, you are going to college too?"

"Yeah, it's ok... for school"

"Could you show me around?" She became more hopeful.

Rainbow turned around, and disappeared from view. "Sorry Sparks, but I'm a second year. Also, with all t he junk I have to do with school, and around town. I have no time too. You should get a Freshman aid when you set everything up, so don't worry too much about it"

Twilight thought about it. "Also," Rainbow went on. "Should also get a roommate, if you are dorm'n. I imagine you are, being so far out of town. They could help you too, well, as much as a another new student can. Heh"

She went back into thinking. "I've met two ponies so far, and probably meeting two more, at least" She said to herself.

"Hey?" Twilight jumped, as Rainbow Dash sat across from her. "Day Dreaming?" She laughed. "Guess we both have our heads in the clouds"

She pulled out a device, and put it on the table. "I like you Twilight, can't wait to hang out with you some more. Let's sync, so we can keep in touch"

"Sync?"

"Yeah, you have a Bay-B right? What pony doesn't?"

Twilight pulled out hers, and looked at it. "I do not know much about these things..." Rainbow grabbed it. "Wicked, a Dragon, that's a pretty rare one, for some pony who doesn't know much about em" She started to mess with it. "See?" She showed her the screen, showing a swirling pattern with "Awaiting friend"

Twilight took it back "Just do not hit anything" She picked up hers, and was about to hit something on it, when Applejack returned.

"Here y'all go Twilight" She looked over at Rainbow Dash. "When did y'all sneak in?"

"Sneak? Ha! Way you pay attention, I could blast through, and you wouldn't notice. Surprised Sparks here even got service"

"Why you trouble maker, y'all are lucky we don't refuse service, to even the most annoying customers"

Rainbow leaned over the table. "That's might neighborly of ya, Jackie" She said in a mock accent liken to Apple's.

"Told y'all, not to call me that!"

Trying to defuse the situation, Twilight changed the subject. "So, you have a Bay-B too, Applejack?

She looked at her, and pulled one out. "Sure as shoot'n"

"Hey now, I'm syncing with her!" Rainbow protested.

"Oh yeah?"

Rainbow stood up, and they placed both on the table. Twilight scooted over to the corner of the booth. "Ready slow poke?" Apple said. "Just try to beat me, Earthy"

They glanced over at Twilight. "Call it" She blinked. "Call what?" "Draw" She paused. "Uh...draw?"

Both jumped at their devices, and hit the sync buttons.

Twilight's own beeped. she looked at it, not seeing both them watching her. "You both are in my list now"

"But who is first?!" Rainbow grabbed it, and looked at it, and groaned. "Damn it!"

"Ha, showed y'all. You can fly around all ya want, but none can sync like me"

Rainbow looked at the join time. "So close, how'd this even know?" She looked at it again. "Celestia?"

"Yeah, she is my mentor... why?"

Apple looked at Rainbow, then Twilight, and Rainbow burst into laughter. "The Queen? Yeah right!"

"What? She is my mentor, she gave this thing to me" She started to get self conscious. She looked at Apple. "Why is is so funny?"

"I'm not doubt'n ya sweetie, just not too many consort with the Queen. The fact you came from Canterlot to learn here, when you were learn'n from her, it is hard to believe... for some" She glared at Rainbow.

"It's true, she wanted me to make friends, that is why she sent me here" She lowered her head, feeling like a lair, made her feel almost as bad as hearing she would be apart from her mentor.

"Don't fret Twilight, I believe ya"

She was not so convinced.

Apple sat beside her, and hugged her. "Common now, if'n y'all say she's is, then I believe it. Friends believe in friends"

Twilight smiled, hugging back, a bit mousy.

Rainbow stopped laughing, and sat back across form them. "It is hard to believe, but what ever Right? You are a riot Twilight"

"Y'all be nice to her" Applejack said getting back up. "I have ta get back to it, cannot give y'all all the attention now" She winked.

"Mossy on there" Rainbow said, as she walked away. "Jackie" She snickered, till a muffin got her in the head. "Hey! You wanna do this?!"

"Still haven't learned not to tangle with me?" The two butted head, and growled at each other. They stood, forehead to forehead, for a moment, till gravity seem to give way. They were both hoisted in the air by a red stallion Twilight saw earlier behind the counter.

"Do y'all have ta do this every day?" He looked at Applejack first. "Little Sister?"

She looked ashamed, and down. "Sorry..."

He then looked at Rainbow, who was all scrunched up in a pout. "Rainbow?"

"Yeah, sorry..."

Twilight watched them, as Big Macintosh put them back down. They shook fore hooves, not looking at each other. "Stop it" The big stallion said, when they started to grip tighter and arm wrestle in the air.

She could not help but giggle, and subconsciously picked up the cup. She had yet to tried it yet, and was not expecting the taste. "Oh my, that is wonderful" She blurted out, and then covered her muzzle.

A moment later, a little filly came over. Filling in for Apple, since she and Rainbow were put in time out. "Like that I hear" She said.

Twilight laughed nervously. "Yeah... I did not realize it was not my normal drink"

"Let me guess, Applejava?" Twilight nodded. "Yeah, she gets that a lot. Though she doesn't make it for just any one y'know?"

"Really?" She looked at it. "How come?"

"It's a specialty of hers. She gathers the best apples we all have. She gives it to only her closest friends. A might emphasis on 'Give'"

Twilight looked at her weird. "She does not charge for it" As an answer, the younger filly nodded. "Really? But we just met, why is she giving me this?"

Apple Bloom shrugged. "She likes y'all already. She is mighty easy to get along with, and she likes to make friends. I say this is the fastest she's given a friend she specialty"

Something bleeped, and Twilight looked at her Bay-B. "Oh darn, I'm late!" She quickly gathered her books, and bag, and moved to get out of the booth, and stopped. "So wait, I don't have to pay? What about a tip?" She pulled out a book. "It says 15% is customary, but 20% is nice... but any percent of nothing is zero..."

Apple Bloom grabbed her arm, and pulled out of the seat. "Now git, don't worry about that stuff. I recall y'all said you are late"

"Oh right... uh... Thank her for me"

"Scoot!"

***

Twilight Sparkle walked onto the campus, and looked around. "A good sized school" She thought. See spotted the line. "Guessing that is the place"

She moved to the line, looking at her Bay-B for the time. "Mare I wish I come here sooner"

"Oh, wouldn't matter hon" The pony before her said, still turned away. "Of course, I was late too" She was messing with something. "I stopped by earlier, and saw it was pretty long, so I left help out at the shop I'm working at"

"I see" She sipped her java. "Well, at least it was not a waste"

"Pardon?" The pony turned around. She was a unicorn, with violet hair that flowed from her head like a stream, getting darker where it curled up like a gentle wave. She was all white, and dressed in some dress Twilight had never seen before. It was very pretty, and unique. "Oh my, another unicorn!"

"Yeah?" Twilight was a bit nervous at the response.

"There are so few here in little old Ponyville, that makes us like sisters!" She hugged to her. "c'est magnifique! I'm so glade to meet you... oh uh, what is your name dear?"

"Twilight Sparkle..." She was a little put off by her, she was as friendly as Applejack, but more enthusiastic.

"I am Rarity, in name and style" she laughed, letting Twilight go. "Oh dear, this will be good. I was hoping to find some unicorn friends here. So what is your specialty?"

"Specialty?" She was a bit confused by the question.

"Yes yes, the unicorn specialty? I am a designer, and my abilities are perfectly suited to my gift for fashion"

"Oh, yes, well. I actually do not have a special ability, I can just do magick. Transformations, modifications, spells, that type of thing"

"Pfft" They heard, and looked over to see a blue pony, wearing something like Twilight's training robes. "Your specialty is magic? I dare say you make me laugh"

"Who are you?" Rarity asked, not taking to this unicorn at all like she did Twilight.

"I am Trixie, the most powerful magic user of all Ponydom!" She whipped up a sparkling storm around her. "You can claim your gift is magick, but compared to Trixie, you may as well be just an Earth pony"

Rarity scoffed. "You don't impress me, but do keep talking, so when the line grows, you'll be far behind us"

Trixie laughed. "I have long been done with this. Commoner" She disappeared.

"Good riddens" Rarity said, looking back at Twilight. "Some ponies huh?" She changed the topic. "So, where are you from Twilight? I've never seen you in Ponyville"

"Oh, Canterlot. Ce..."She stopped recalling the last time she was mentioned. "My mentor thought it would be good for me to get some culture"

"Canterlot!" She said most excitedly. “I knew you were special" She seem to sparkle, making Twilight wonder if she had that as one of her magick abilities. “I should have known. you have an air that speaks of the upbringing of a pony from the Queendom capitol"

“Home schooled?” She recovered a bit from her excitement. “My my, that must be nice. Private lessons, and never having to worry about out shinning any pony else with your looks? Oh it makes me jealous to think of”

"Really?" She felt a bit embraced.

"Oh yes, say, let's sync our Bay-Bs. This horrid line is so long, and we should be connected any ways" She pulled out hers, it was one like Twilight's. She did likewise. "Oh, again, I should have expected no less. A Dragon model. I love the green and purple colours, it's oh so lovely"

"Thanks, it was a gift from my mentor"

"Such a great teacher, with wonderful taste" She smiled so purely, it was warming.

Twilight looked down a bit, despite the smile. "Yeah..." Memories of Celestia still seem to be too sore, was only one day, she was wondering how she would survive.

"Oh now, don't be upset. You have a friend here, and I'll not let you be a mope" Twilight smiled at Rarity's kindness.

They synced their devices, and they made a sound Twilight had not heard, a sound that excited the other unicorn. "You see, we are sisters!"

"Huh?" She looked at the screen. "Soul friends?"

"Yes yes, did you not know? These wonderful toys rate friendships, based on the info you put into it. When two match, you are destined to be friends. But our codes also matched, so that means we are truly inseparable!" Rarity hugged to her again, this time Twilight hugged back a bit. "Oh I can't wait to spend time with you, we are going to be the best of friends, you and I"

***

After a long time in the line, only the ever draining Applejava, and Rarity to get her through. Twilight felt pretty close to Rarity after a long chat with the unicorn. She found herself reflecting on her day as she headed toward the dorms.

She found the dorms, and walked in, looking around. They had a small desk set up in a little lobby, and a couple doors and some stairs.

She went up to the desk, and saw a pony sitting facing away. "Pardon me?"

He turned, and looked at her. "Oh, hello" He was bit overly friendly in his tone. "How can I help you hon?"

"Is this a co-ed dorm?" Twilight asked, a bit worried. New place was one thing, but if she was stuck with a stallion, she would be a lot to deal with.

"Oh no, I'm just helping out here" He giggled a bit.

She signed relieved. "Well, I'm looking for my aid. I know I'm really late, the registration took longer then I thought. They said that my aid would be here" She pulled out the papers.

He looked them over, and turned away, pulling out his Bay-B. When he was done, he turned back. "Luckily, she is still around. She'll be in, just one moment"

"Thank you" She went and sat down, and sighed. "What a busy day. So many new faces, and so much to learn" She paused. "I hope I can handle this," She closed her eyes for a moment. "Being alone now... well" She smiled a bit. "I guess not really" Thoughts of the ponies she met still played in her head.

She heard the door open, and opened her eyes and looked in the direction. A Yellow pegasus came into the room, with light pink hair, and soft blue eyes. She looked uneasy, as she came up to Twilight. "Um... Hi... I'm Fluttershh...."

"Huh?" Twilight asked, looking at her funny.

"Flut...t... oh my..." She whimpered.

Twilight's Bay-B went off. She pulled it out, and the Pegasus seem to brighten up. "Oh my, is that a Bay-B Dwagon?"

"Y-yes?" She stopped from looking at what set it off.

"I've never seen a Bay-B dragon model before. Those are really nice, and rare. I love these devices" She pulled out hers. "Mine is only a Bay-B Bunny, but it's still pretty neat"

"That is nice..." She looked around. "So uh, you were going to help me with getting all situated?"

"Oh, I'm sorry, I'm very bad at meeting new ponies... uh. I'm Fluttershy" She sounded less nervous now, the little device was becoming an ice breaker.

Twilight laughed nervously. "Yeah well, before today, I did not really have any friends, or know that many ponies"

"Really? That is terrible, oh, but you have made some friends though?"

She nodded. "Yeah, I did meet some. It's been a really busy day, and been so more active then I have ever been before" She sighed a bit, expressing her weariness.

"Oh, well, I guess you'd like to get things done as fast as possible, so you can get settled in. I'm sorry" She picked up on the subtle, but telling hint.

"I am the one who was running late"

Fluttershy sat down, and pulled out some papers. "Well, we should really get things set up" She smiled softly.

***

"Well, here you are" Fluttershy said, as they came up to the door to her dorm. She hooved over the key card. "I think your new roommate is home. Her name is..." She looked at her notes "Oh my, I can't find the papers on that..."

"It is alright. I just hope she is quiet, I'm very tired and need to get some sleep" She was long past her energy form the java, and was looking more worn too display how wiped out she was.

"Oh poor thing, should get you to bed right away"

Twilight laughed nervously. "I will get right on that. Thanks for everything, was really informative"

"Of course, is my duties to help the 1st years. Well, good night" She smiled softly, and bowed a bit, before turning away.

"Night"

As Fluttershy trotted away, Twilight opened the door. The door did not move though, and she forced it open. It was not easy, but she managed to pull some reserves of energy, and was rewarded by falling forward into the room.

"Ow" She rolled over, and looked up into the starry blue eyes of a nearly completely pink pony. "uh...."

"Oh! Hi! Gee, you sure have a funny way of coming into a room, can I try that?" She skipped out the door, and closed it.

"What the?"

The door opened, and Twilight quickly rolled out of the way, as the pink pony crashed like she had, moments before. "Well, that is not as fun as I thought, but still fun!" She gasped. "I haven't seen you in Ponyville before! You are new?"

"Yes, my name is Twi-ay-eeelihhhht" She found it hard to speak, as the pink earth pony squeezed her.

"Oh my gosh, that means you need a party, and some candies. You made any friends? I can get you to know every pony! We can have so much fun. I love when new ponies come to town!"

She let go, and started to rummage through some of the huge mess in the room. Twilight stood up and stumbled back, trying to get her breath.

"Oh, I'm Pinkie Pie" She popped out of a mound, with some silly antenna on her head. "Nice to meet you Tw-eye-lihhht" She giggled. "That's a silly name. I like it"

"Actually," She sat on the bed across from the bulk of the mess. "It is just Twilight Sparkle"

"Oh, well, that's good too" She disappeared again. “You need to make a ton of friends, cause it's just so wonderful to have friends. You do have some, right?"

"Yes, I have made a few" She looked, but saw no sign of the bouncy pony.

"That's good, cause I'd be so sad to think that any pony is without friends" She popped out, and started to prance around the floor. "Yes yes yes yes!" She held out a Bay-B "Now we can sync, and be friends for sure!"

Twilight sighed, and pulled out hers "I am so tired, so if we make it quick. I would really like to get some sleep" She did not like coming off so rude, but with fading might, she was loosing any spare effort to be polite.

"Oh, I understand" She took the device. "I'll just do it for you so you can..." She looked over, and saw Twilight passed out. "Aw, she is all tuckered out"

She undressed her a bit, so she did not sleep in all her cloths. “Hmm, I wonder why she doesn’t have anything to wear?” She asked herself, as she rummaged through the bag Twilight had with her.

A knock came at her door, and Pinkie covered the nearly bare unicorn, and went to the door. “Hellooooo?” She nearly sang.

“Hiya!” The pony on the other side said. A greyish blue pegasus, with blond hair, and golden eyes stood there with a cart behind her. “I believe this is the room of...” She looked at a card. “Twilight Sparkle”

“Yes, well, partly yes, see it’s my room too” Pinkie stated.

She stepped aside. “I have a delivery of luggage. It’s a strange delivery, but I don’t question the mail, just get it through”

After a moment, the luggage was inside the room, and the mailmare was leaving. “Thank you Ditzy!”

Now with some cloths, Pinkie finished what she started. She set Twilight back into bed, and covered her up. "There we go"

Pinkie sat on her own bed, and looked around. "Wow, I made such a mess" She looked down at the two Bay-Bs. She synced them, and set hers down, getting up to put Twilight's down by her.

She stopped, and looked at it. "Oooh, idea"

Ch02: Twilight's Pony Tale Part 2

The night was nearing it's end, the day was needed. So the Day Queen was starting her own ritual before starting the day's.

She emerged from her bed chambers, dressed in her robe, and not at all prepared, but she was gifted with a natural grace, that even fresh from bed, she had looked presentable. She was not all that concerned to look less then her best around her trusted guards, and aids. She greeted them all, as she was nearly glowing, her white fur sparkling from the reflections of her magick imbued hair's own light.

She made her way toward the chamber she spent much of her free time, what little she had. The personal study she could read tales of history and fiction. Some of which were written by both her, and her sister. Celestia was more of the historian with tales as the accounts of her long lost Guardians of Equestria, from a time when verging dangers required such heroes. Her sister Luna was more of a writer of the fiction.

This room was also where she found great inspiration, when she had to create royal addresses, or make words with those outside the boarders of Equestria.

She took her seat near an elegant fireplace, and with a glance of her lovely pink eyes, the fire started, casting a near haunting light. She opened up her book, one that told a history from one of the neighboring countries, and began to read a few pages. She always found, learning of new things, was a great way to ready for another day.

After a chapter, she closed the book back, and looked over at her desk near the table, and reached from her Bay-B device.

Looking it over, she saw a message on it. She could tell it was from Twilight Sparkle, her student afar, and smiled. "I hope her first day in Ponyville was well" She thought, and opened the message. She first noted the time it was sent. "That pony, she needs a book on getting some sleep" She laughed.

Dear friends of Twilight,

Hi, this isn't her, hehe. No, this is her new roommate, Pinkie Pie. Hi! If I don't know you, well, I hope we can meet, cause I love making friends, and meeting new faces.

Oops, getting off the track... I'm throwing Twilight a surprise party! Celebrating her arrival to Ponyville, and our fair town's newest member.

So come on! Join us in the Grand Hall this Friday, gonna have her show up around 6 or so, so be early so we can get ready! Gonna be so much fun!

Oh, one more thing... This is important... DON'T TELL HER! Please? Cause that would ruin the surprise... hmm unsurprised party? That might be fun, maybe next time.

OK, well, see you there.
Love, Pinkie Pie <3

Celestia place the device down, and smiled. "Well, I suppose things have worked out better then I thought. My faithful student, I had hoped you woud take to this task, with your usual diligence" She laughed at the thought of her reclusive student, now faced with a social life she'd never imagined having before.

The dawn had come, and the sun was risen into the sky, as it had been made to by the Queen, for ages. All was as it had been, for the many times before. Life began, and daily activities started. The one difference, at least for one pony, was where she would find herself.

Twilight awoke, long after the morning began. She had been so wiped out by the past day, that she needed the long sleep she had. Maybe some Pegasus lag was to blame too. When she sat up, she looked around, not fully aware of herself. She began to panic, till her mind caught up with her body.

She placed a hoof on her chest, and signed. "Oh my..." She noticed something, the silky feel of her nightwear. "Wait a minute..."

She looked around, the room was cleaner, though mostly just shoved over to the right side. She also noted her luggage sitting near her bed, but mostly, that her cloths from yesterday were on top of the bags, and not on her.

Her ears went back in embarrassment, obviously Pinkie had dressed her, and though they were both mares, she had never been naked in front of another, much less, unconsciously. Most ponies did not find such things a big deal, but she was a bit self conscious, adding to her reclusive nature.

She relaxed a bit, thinking about the gesture, and smiled. Her friend thought enough to get her out of the cloths she had been in all day, and even got her into bed properly, instead of the passed out way Twilight had that night. Adding to it all, brought her bags in, and setting them near her. Mostly, that Pinkie had to have stay up pretty late to move all her things so Twilight had at least half the room. She had seemed weird at first, but she also had to have a good nature.

"Pinkie?" She called, since the bed of her room mate was covered, she was either out, or buried. "Are you here?"

She saw some movement, and turned to look over easier. "That's a yes, I hope..." Was either the pink mare, or something was living in the mess.

She heard the ring of the Bay-B, and so she reached over, and picked up the device. A message read "Yep" and Twilight sighed, and got up. Making her way to the pile, digging into it.

After a few things, she found the smiling face of the crazy pony. "Hiya"

"I see... you cleaned up..." Twilight said, looking around the mound.

"A bit, but I kinda got sleepy, and well, I think it musta fell over" She made a face in thought. "Maybe my stuff was tired too?"

Twilight and Pinkie spent a bit cleaning up the mess, and when it was done, Twilight decided to make her way to Apple Cider's. It was well into the afternoon, and she had not much energy after all she did this morning-ish.

On the way, she was met up with one of her new friends. More accurately, she was ran into by her.

With a thud, and shared sounds of pain. Twilight and Rainbow Dash laid on the ground.

"Oops, sorry Sparks" Rainbow said, getting up first, only as an after thought, did she offered to help the other up.

Twilight dusted off, once she was again vertical. "No, it's ok. I am sure I was not paying much attention either, I am not that awake right now"

"I should save my new moves for outside town, it's too cramped here"

The Unicorn studied the Pegasus. "Moves?"

"Yeah, duh, I'm training to be a Wonder Bolt. I did mention that, I think I did... what ever. I am and while I was taking care of some stray clouds, figured I'd get in some new tricks"

Twilight looked up, seeing the clear sky. "Looks fine now," She looked back down at the Pegasus "But you take care of clouds? Do not the unicorns do that? Canterlot, the unicorns control the weather"

Rainbow scoffed. "Well this is Ponyville, we are more traditional. We don't have many magick users here anyways"

Rainbow dash jumped into the air, and floated a bit. "Well, I have to bolt. More to do, fun, and work wise. Later Sparks" She shot off into the sky.

"Sparks?" She shrugged, and kept on toward Apple Cider's, but she didn't get far. She was pulled into a shop. "What the?"

"Twilight, darling" Rarity said, and she could swear the fellow unicorn was sparkling. Maybe she was, using her own magick to do so. "I just had to show you" She disappeared.

"What?" Twilight tried to follow, but lost her when she slipped out of sight. "Rarity?"

The other reappeared, holding something. "Isn't it absolutely beautiful? Oh I just had to make it, though it needs some work" She paused.

Twilight looked over, as she was lost in though. "Well, it does look rather niiieek!" She was abruptly pulled behind a dressing curtain. "Rarity, wait... ahh!" Before she knew what happened, she was in front of a mirror looking at herself. It was a nice looking dress, but not that much in Twilight's taste.

"Oh it is a thing of beauty... Hmmm... no no no" She started to summon some of her tools, and started to work on parts of the dress. "Oh now that I have your figure, I see" She was lost into her own little world, and Twilight stood there in a daze, slowly loosing her focus without her much needed caffeine.

"So you made this?" She came too, and began to wonder. The longer she looked, the more impressed she was.

"Oh yes, this is one of my originals. I was so inspired by our encounter yesterday, I rushed home and drew out the designs, and made an early start today" She never stopped working, she seemed to be a master of multitasking, as she never slowed in anything she did. "I was hoping to find you today, so I could do these little adjustments"

Twilight lifted her arm, and looked at the detail. "You have a real talent"

"Thank you dear, I've always had the horn for fashion, as it would happen" She sighed happily. "One day, I'll be a top designer, and all will know the name of Rarity"

She looked over at a Pegasus who was putting something out. Twilight looked over at him. He was an older pony, but still brimming with life, and beauty of his own. He was a faded blue, with a blonde mane.

Rarity looked back at her work, but Twilight's sight lingered. "He taught me much, once a great designer, but found the life took demanding. He likes to move at his own pace. Me, I can keep up. I've never had trouble with that"

"So what is his name?"

"Swanheart" She said with such respect, Twilight knew she really looked up to him. A personal hero, a true idol for her.

Twilight was still in thought, when she felt a pulling on the dress. "Ahh! Rarity?!"

The Unicorn paused, mid way of undressing her. "What?"

"Can I undress myself, and in privet?" She looked over, she was in plain view of the shop. She had issues with being exposed, growing up in the capitol city, she had some of the etiquette. "It maybe ok for most, but I really do not want to be naked in public..."

Rarity stood up, and stepped back. "Oh, yes, of course" She laughed a bit nervously. "Well, I get carried away. I was in the zone, as it t'wer" She paused. "Oh, but I do need to see your mark. I like to add that personal touch"

They disappeared into the dressing stall, and when they came back out, Twilight was back in her cloths, and Rarity was carrying the dress.

"Thank you dear, I shale incorporate the cutie mark" She thought a bit. "Maybe there?"

"Oh, but I don't know if I could afford such a lovely dress"

Rarity looked at her funny. "Afford? Oh dear, this isn't a commission. I did this as a gift, partly for the inspiration, and partly because of our friendship, the sisterhood we formed in that otherwise terrible line"

She found herself a bit take aback, surprised by such kindness only after a day's time. "Oh you-" Rarity cut her off "No argument. Now you can come back in a few hours, I should have it ready"

"I just wish I knew what I could wear this for, I've never been to a party, or anything like that to need such things"

Rarity giggled, something that Twilight found strange. "I am sure you'll find something. We have a pony around here who has parties as often as a week ends" She moved over to a table, and set down the dress. "She is due for one, it's been a little bit since the last one" She stopped, obviously recalling something. "but again... maybe not" She shrugged. "Never know with her" Had she been more aware, she might have caught the odd behavior.

Twilight moved toward her, and was noticeably slow in her motions. "Who is this party pony?" She gave a yawn.

"Oh dear, you need some of that, what was it now? Apple mocha?" She shook her head, and started to move Twilight toward the door. "Oh what ever, you look worn out, and the day is hardly been. Now go, get some more of that liquid energy"

"Ok ok, gee, I yawn and you get all worried" She smiled a bit. "I'll see you later, thank you so much"

"Any time dear" Twilight left, and Rarity sighed. "Oh mare, that was close..."

Twilight made her way to Apple Ciders, and headed in. The spot she had yesterday was open, and took the seat there. When she sat, she felt herself loose the little bit of steam she had, and she nearly slumped over in the booth. "Oh mare..."

"Looks like that Rarity wasn't lying, when she said y'all was tired" The familiar voice of the country pony said, as she sat down a cup before the worn out Unicorn.

She could smell the perfect brew of apples, creams and coffee. "You, are my favorite pony right now" Twilight said, taking the drink and having some to get her back up to talking. She made sure not to drink it too fast, no matter how bad she wanted too.

Applejack sat across from her in the booth, and studied her friend. "Y'all didn't sleep well?"

She was back up to speed, and sat up a bit more composed. "I did, but I just not use to doing so much activity, especially without some juice" She sipped some more. "This is the best magick any pony could produce" She smiled, getting one in return from the orange mare.

She went on, relaxing a bit. "My room mate had a bit of a mess on her hooves, and so I helped her out, then ran into Rainbow Dash, well, was crashed into, then Rarity had me sized up for a dress"

Applejack's smile went from gratitude, to knowing. "Seems y'all made a heep of friends, all in a day" She shifted out of the seat, and got up. "Well, enjoy that 'juice' I'll get y'all some eats"

"Bu-" She tried to protest, but the others finger came up and waggled before Twilight "A body needs more then just some mud, gotta have something solid in y'all. With me, I'll make sure y'all are well taken care of" She moved on, without giving a chance for the other to say anything.

Twilight smiled to herself, and pulled out her Bay-B's manual. "Well, looks like this will be as good as any time to study this thing"

Some time had pasts as Twilight learned the device, and enjoyed a great meal. She doubted she could ever enjoy food outside this place again.

She made ready to leave, and before she got far out of her seat, the orange pony returned. "Well, how'd y'all like it?"

"It was wonderful, I think Canterlot needs to take some notes"

"Shoot, that's mighty kind. Really all should go to Granny, she sure can make some scraps. Suppose something should be said about farm fresh too, don't think Canterlot gets too much in the right from the fields" She started to gather up the dishes, as Twilight started to pull out a wallet. "Hold there, won't have that"

Twilight blinked, and was surprised. "What? Paying? but do I not owe you something, for the food at least?"

Applejack gave her a wink. "I said, I'd always take care of y'all"

She had all the dishes up, and stood face to face with Twilight. "How can you keep in business, if you give things away?"

Applejack laughed softly. "Here in Ponyville, we do things for one another. We sell things, but we trade more than anything. Food for supplies, and that sort of thing. Sure places like Dressing Diamonds, where that Rarity works, sells their stuff, but services like ours works fine on trade"

"But why have money here? Seems trade would be just fine"

"Normally, sure, but when we get outsiders, we needed to adapt, or we'd start taking big hits in our supplies. Win loose kinda thing. We became a bit dependent on money, but we also now can get things from places like Canterlot" She held up her Bay-B "Win some, loose some" She gave a soft laugh.

Twilight thought about it. "Really not a bad system. Local trade, with outside incomes. I feel bad though, I ca not offer anything to trade"

Applejack put back her device, and took Twilight's hand in hers "Twi, having your friendship is a great return, keeping company with y'all, is a great payment worth some mud and victuals"

Twilight could feel her ears flush, and she put them back embraced. "That is probably the nicest thing I have been told"

"Tis nothing but the honest truth sugar cube"

***

Twilight made her way back to the dorm, it was getting close to night, and wanted to get more settled into her room. Hoping Pinkie had not done anything to it.

She was in really good spirits, with all that had gone on, so she was humming a bit to herself. She did not know the words, but recalled it was a song that Queen Luna's student use to sing when they studied. She use to find it annoying, but now she felt it was a great song.

"Oh, uh.... excuse me?" She slowed to a stop, and looked over seeing the yellow Pegasus who called to her.

"Oh, hi Fluttershy. How can I help you?" She snickered. "Guess it is funny, you are my student aid"

The other smiled a bit, enjoying the joke, then she turned serious again. "Um, can you help me with something?"

Twilight moved closer, and followed her around. "I'm a bit overwhelmed today, with my duties. I take care of animals around Ponyville, animal sitting, and so on. I just need some help to get finished before night comes" Twilight was happy to help.

They were gathering some of the animals around a little care center, and Twilight picked up a little skunk. "This is safe, right?" She held it out.

"Oh don't worry, animals are very nice, if you are kind to them. Respect them, and don't be afraid, and they'll react in kind"

"Sure do love animals" Twilight said, as Fluttershy closed up a couple more crates.

"Oh yes, they are great company, and I just love spending time with them" Fluttershy took the skunk, and placed it down. "He was getting antsy"

"Oh... good thing you caught that, hate to been sprayed"

The Pegasus watched the little critter walk off. "That's actually not so common as ponies think. It takes a lot out of them so it's a last resort. They'll usually give warning signs"

"Warning huh? sounds good, so what are they? I rather get a rock thrown at me, then sprayed"

Fluttershy giggled, and looked at her. "Well, I don't know about rocks, but they usually will hiss, or pat the ground" She got down on her fours, and started to pat the ground with her fore hooves. The sight made Twilight giggle, this in turn caused the other stop and look a bit confused.

"I'm sorry, but that was so cute"

"Oh my" She stood up, and hid a bit into her hair embraced.

Twilight tried to find her face. "Oh, don't be offended. I was not trying to be mean, I just thought it looked cute"

She squeaked. "Just not use to being... called cute..."

"Aw, but I guess I can share with that. I never had friends till I came here"

"Really?" She popped out of her hair, and looked at her. "Oh!" She looked at the dark sky, then pulled out her Bay-B. "Oh no, um... can you help me with one last thing?"

She blinked, the sudden change in her, but just added to the cuteness of her personality. "I guess, I am a bit sleepy, but I think I can"

"Oh, ok"

They walked on toward the auditorium. They neared the door, and Twilight was a bit confused. "This animal related?"

"Oh, uh... not really" She pushed open the door, it was dark inside, but Twilight walked in before Fluttershy.

The lights went on, and Pinkie popped seemingly from no where. "Surprise!" She and all the others shouted Causing Twilight to jump back. "It's a party for you, with all your friends, and some new ones too be!" She pranced around, as Twilight took in all the ponies there.

She was a bit teary eyed when it started to come together. "This... is for me...?" She looked at Pinkie, then spotted other faces she knew.

"Of course" Rarity said, coming up holding the dress. "I think this is a fitting place to debut" She smiled.

After a moment in the bathroom, she came out in the dress. It looked much nicer then before, it's shades of blues and starry patterns, really seem to match her. She found the cutie mark across her chest, seeming to control the other stars and designs.

The party was well on, and many ponies came to introduce themselves. Thankfully, they did so with the help of one of the girls Twilight had already known. All in all, she met Pinkie's bosses at the Sweet shop, Mr. and Mrs. Cake, and some of her friends like Ditzy Doo, the mail mare. Rarity introduced her to her boss and friend, Swanheart, since they had not really met when she saw him earlier. Rainbow Dash showed her to Gilda, though the latter did not stick around long after that. She seemed a bit antisocial, but Twilight did not care. Gryphons were that way, it seemed.

She was feeling a bit tired, and a bit over overwhelmed by all the new faces, but with some Apple Java from Applejack, and so long as she stayed near her first friends here, it was doable to manage. A couple hours in, the party was slowing a bit any ways, so Twilight knew she could hold out till it was over.

Pinkie was bouncing around, and noticed the door opening. She made her way over. "Hello?" She startled the pony outside a bit, at the sudden appearance. He seemed to have been knocking for a little bit. "I swore everpony was here...." She looked at him, he was dressed a bit fancy, even for the party, and whats more, he did not look familiar to her. "Say, who are you? I know all of Ponyville... Are you a new pony too?! You can come join-"

"I'm sorry, but I'm just a messenger, here to deliver one to Miss Twilight Sparkle. Is she here?"

"Yes yes, oh, uh...." She bounced off, leaving the stranger confused.

She returned with Twilight, and pointed him out. "He said he has a message for you"

"What?" Another voice came, over flew the blonde Pegasus. "Messages? That's my job!"

Twilight looked at the Pegasus, then at the other. "Wait, I know you... you proceed...." She rushed past them, surprising them all. Ditzy glared at the other messenger, her eyes starting to go in different directions. The poor messenger felt uneasy.

Outside, Pinkie followed after, and for once stopped dead, with all her energy fading. "Oh my mare..."

Applejack looked around, and saw the door opened. Twilight and Pinkie were missing, and by the door was Ditzy Doo, and some stranger. "Hmm, that's odd" Couple others took notice of the sudden absence of both the guest of honor, and the host.

They moved toward the door, and opened both so more could get out. All stopped in shock at what they saw. Pinkie was still a bit frozen in place, and Twilight was clinging onto a taller mare than any there. One everypony in Equestria knew.

"Ho shit!" Rainbow Dash slipped out. "She does know Queen Celestia!"

They all looked at the White royal, who even in the darkness of her Sister's doing, she shined like the sun she wielded. Her dress not that of her usual style, but more formal, and more suited for a party. She did not loose any regality, maybe gained more with such an attempt to fit in with her subjects.

"Oh my Dearest Celestia, I can not believe you have come here" Twilight said, still hugging to her, and being hugged back. The two looking like mother and child. "But why did you come tonight?"

She gave a soft and short laugh, knowing, and caring all at once. "My most faithful student, I was invited. How could I miss your party"

All eyes, but Celestia and Twilight looked upon Pinkie. "I... uh..." She was rarely out of words. "Invited all her friends on the Bay-B" She laughed nervously.

"I thank you for doing so, Pinkie Pie" The Queen said. She and Twilight broke the hug, and moved closer to the crowd. She studied the faces, taking notice of a couple, she gave a smile to Swanheart, to that he nodded. "I am pleased to see that Ponyville is still the lovely community it was when I made my stay here so long ago" She could feel her age with those words, thinking how long it was when she was like Twilight, still growing and learning.

She turned toward the four ponies gathered nearest Twilight, the fifth of the core friends still a bit stuck in place. "I can tell of you four” she looked over at Pinkie “Five,” She corrected herself. “Are particularly important to my student”

She turned toward the distant one of the five. "I had heard of the welcoming comity, but does not seem you've lived up to that" She smiled. "No energy tonight?"

Pinkie blinked, then regained herself. "Oh, so sorry!" She started to bounce around, heading back inside, then quickly coming out again, with some balloons, and cake. "Here" She tied the balloons onto the bits of Royal armor, and hoofed over the cake slice. "Had I known, I'd have something for you done up. I don't want to steal Twilight's thunder, but if you like to stick around I can pull something together"

"No no, that is ok, I cannot stay long" she looked at the cake. "This is a bit more like what I've heard of Ponyville's Party Pony" She paused, as Pinkie put a party hat over her horn, and a noise maker in her mouth. "Well... a lot more like it" She laughed, causing the noise maker to sound off with ever laugh, causing the Queen to laugh more, getting the others to start laughing along.

The Queen did stick around a bit longer, no one wanted to bug her too much, and treated her more like one of the other ponies, than the Queen of their land. The party moved outside, as they watched the night sky glimmer. Soon they were joined by the other Queen of Equestria’s night.

The younger dark coloured pony appeared just past the gathering, wearing her royal armor, not so formal as her sister. She was on duty, and had to keep her appearance. She was slow to approach the group, till another pony poofed into the group.

All looked at the pair, they recognized Queen Luna, but not the lighter blue unicorn, with purple mane, and red glasses.

"Oh, Sister" Celestia moved toward her. "What brings you here? And Harmony Spirit?" The unicorn greeted the Day Queen, and then moved over toward Twilight.

"It's a bit late, for the Sun to be out... do you not think so?" She looked around, a bit timid to be out here.

"Hiya Twilight!" The unicorn hugged her. "Having fun I see"

"Hello Spirit" She hugged back "Yeah, it has been a crazy couple days"

He let go, and stepped back. "So, sticking around long?" She looked at him. "Luna said you might be coming back soon, now that you've made friends like Celestia wanted" A couple heard the conversation, and turned toward it. "Not... that I'm trying to steal you back" He laughed nervously.

The Queens came up to the group, and stood just behind the blue Unicorn. "I was going to let you know" Celestia began, then looked down at Harmony Spirit a bit sternly. "In my own way, but" She looked back up at Twilight. "If you wish, you can come back to Canterlot. I think you have learned a lot already"

The crowd was quiet, Twilight's closer friends stepping closer, looking a bit afraid that she might go.

"I..." She began, looking around. "I would love to come home..." She paused, looking at Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy. "But I am not ready, I have much to learn here, and well" She turned back to her mentor. "New friends I would miss too much"

Queen Celestia smiled knowingly. "I thought so, I actually hoped you would say that" She looked out at the ponies. "Friendship is a magickal thing, and it can be created in moments, but the more you get to experience it, the more you can enjoy it's wonder" She looked back at Twilight. "You have many friends here, and much to look forward too. Learn from them, and they will learn from you, and you will all grow as ponies"

She stepped back, as Luna and Harmony moved away. "I must be off, to ready for the next day. Take care of my student" It went out to all of them, but five heard it most. They nodded, and Twilight ran up to the Queen. They embraced for a moment, and then parted.

"I will miss you, but I will make sure to always send you messages" Twilight said.

"I know you well enough, to know that" She smiled, standing with the other two. "Take care my Twilight Sparkle, you are in good hooves"

The little blue unicorn's horn was glowing pink, and the three of them disappeared.

Her closest friends came up to her, Applejack and Rarity hugging her, Pinkie jumped onto the three, and the Pegasus stood close by. Twilight had a tear in her eye, she found happiness she didn't know she was seeking. she felt more whole as a pony, then she ever did.

Ch03: Clash of the Unicorns

It had been a couple week since Twilight came to Ponyville, and it was now time for the first day of college. Something she was looking forward too, since she stopped taking her lessons at Canterlot, she was starting feel she was slipping. With college, she would keep up with her studies, and hoped to avoid the feeling she had about being so far from her mentor. She was glad that she had her Bay-B too keep contact with her.

She did feel right at home, no small part of that, because of her friends. With that feeling came her old habits of locking herself up in the room or library, when Pinkie Pie was around the dorm.

The day went on without much to say, she received her classes, and spent the time getting use to the set up. Fluttershy was there to aid her through the process.

The next couple days were rather simple, getting into the courses, and starting the college life. She had only one worry, that snooty Trixie, was in a couple of her classes. Just as when they first met, she made sure to be the one in the brightest light, and any time attention was diverted, she made sure it was never long.

Twilight worried about the rest of the semester, if this is how it started. she decided to try and ignored the proud Unicorn, who's magick was more like her name implied, tricks.

She avoided her the best she could in school, and classes, and for the most part it worked, but seemed every time Twilight was with Rarity, the bragging blue, would appear, to drive them both nuts. Suppose it was because only a hoof full of unicorns were in Ponyville, and fewer in the school, that it was Trixies way of being around familiar faces. She had a funny way to make friends, both Twilight and Rarity felt.

The month was nearing it's end, with the first week of school, and Twilight received a message from her mentor.

"My faithful student, Twilight Sparkle, Your old friend, and fellow royal student, is going to be in Ponyville soon. He wished that he could come see you"

This was a bit odd for her, she was never very friendly those years they grew up together, as Celestia and Luna's students. He always tried, but Twilight was more into her books than him. She wondered why he always felt they were friends. Guilt started to take her, when she thought of how now she enjoyed friendship, and all a long, she had a friend back home.

It faded a bit, when she thought about it more. He always had friends, it was his way, always out and about, making friends with the citizens of Canterlot.

The message said he'd be around in the week's end, but it was vague about when.

***

Classes let out, and Twilight trotted happily out of the building, carrying her books and humming that same song she learned from Harmony Spirit, still wish she knew the words to it, but it did not stop her from enjoying it. She hoped that she would remember to ask him.

She walked toward her favorite place, to get her favorite drink. A routine she had formed early on, only modified to fit in her schooling. On her way she saw Pinkie Pie, who seem to always be out of school before her. Not sure if she had a free period or not, but like to think the teacher just wanted her out as soon as possible. She was walking and laughing, along with another pony. A familiar one, and a unicorn.

"Wait a minute..." She noticed the cloths, kind a like her style, the shirt, nothing special, a hooded sleeveless over shirt, and loose shorts that only made it down to the bend of his knees. She spotted the key features of this unicorn. Red glasses, just barely covering his eyes, if they were not partly down his muzzle, and the ankh necklace. Added to the blue coat, and violet mane and tale, she knew who it was that Pinkie seem to already be buddies with.

He spotted her, and stopped. Pinkie took a moment to notice, and stopped and looked at him, then at her. "Hi Twilight!" She shouted, not very far from her.

"Hello Pinkie," She took a moment, and looked at the other. "Hello Harmoneee~" She could not finish, he poofed and reappeared, clinging to her. Already she can see why he and Pinkie got along so quickly, and was glad Pinkie was not a Unicorn.

"Twilight!" He continued to squeeze the life out of her. "I missed you!"

"You know each other?" Pinkie did not take long to come bouncing up beside them.

"Yes, I have known her pretty much all my life" He answered, and let her go, when she looked like she was about to pass out.

She used him to keep herself up, gasping for air. "I... I... I wish you... you wouldn't do that..."

He smiled innocently. "I sorry"

After a moment, she regained herself, and took in a deep breath. "How did you meet Pinkie Pie so fast? Did you know her already?"

"Oh, no. I just met her like two minutes ago" He smiled, going back in detail of the advent.

-Pinkie was humming along, skipping a bit, thinking Pinkie thoughts, when she saw a bright flash of pink. "Oooh" She said, making haste to the source.

Just in the middle of the street, a bit of smoke was fading, and a figure was crouching to the ground. Slowly, it lifted it's head, and looked upon the Pink pony with glowing green eyes.

Frozen a bit, she watched as it stretched up to full height, standing glaring at her, looking like something from a scifi movie she saw once.

"Hiya" She said, smiling.

The figure was plain to see, and he smiled back. "Hi"

"I'm Pinkie Pie, oh you are new here? What a cool entrance! I wanna try!"

"Awesome! Oh, I'm Harmony Spirit. Let's do this!"-

"So we spent a few minutes trying out the entrance he did. It was awesome, I was all like 'Come with me, if you wanna party'"

Harmony started to laugh, and Twilight sighed. "I see things are still the same..."

She paused a moment, and she thought about it. "Funny, how much they are alike... I do not think he is as bad... prolonged exposure, cannot be good though"

She came out of her thoughts, and nearly jumped, as they both stared at her. "What?!"

"You were off in space" Harmony said.

"Ssshk, Pinkie Pie to Twilight, come in Twilight"

"Horsedon, we have a problem... we're out of squeezie cheese"

"NOOOOOO!"

They both started to laugh, and Twilight rolled her eyes. "I have to get to Applejack's" She moved on toward the diner. Harmony appeared before her, not long into her march. "What?" She looked back, seeing Pinkie bounding away.

"She had to go, but I'm here to spend time with you Twilight" He smiled, and to that, she smiled back.

They both headed to Apple Cider's, and she trotted in, and took her spot. Harmony followed and sat across from her. "So, this is a Ponyville dinner? I heard they were simpler, but wow, it's so much more open, and homey"

He looked around, at the decor, and some of the others around. As he was, Twilight wondered if she looked like such a... She pondered the term, not really sure what it was called when somepony was acting like Harmony was now. gawking, and showing that he is not from around here. "I will have to ask AJ, she knows a lot of terms" She said finally.

When she looked up, he was gone. She quickly looked around, and found him looking at some old signs that were on one wall near the kitchen.

He stepped back, and Twilight got up, knowing she would not get there in time, as Applejack came out of the kitchen, equally not paying attention as she carried a tray.

The dinner was quiet, following the loud crash, and the yelp out of both ponies, one of surprise, the other out of pain, as some hot drinks poured on her.

"Dang blast it! How'd hell am I suppose work when y'all not looking where your go'n?" she shouted, not even seeing who it was, she was too busy trying to get the hot liquid off her as best she could with only her hooves.

Harmony jumped up quick, and offered his hoof to help her up. "I'm so sorry, I was just... oh it's no excuse, I should been paying attention"

She calmed some, and looked up at him. "No, it's ok... it happens..." She paused, looking at him. She already had her hoof in his, and he was pulling her up. Something about him, seem to cause her to freeze up. She didn't even notice Twilight asking if she was ok.

"AJ?!" She shouted, snapping the orange mare out of her trance.

She looked at Twilight. "Oh... What?"

"Are you ok?" She glared at Harmony. "You need to be more careful, stop acting like an... oh what ever the term is, but stop acting like an outsider"

He hung his head, feeling bad as it was.

"Now now Twi, it was an honest mistake. I wasn't paying too much attention neither" She looked at the other Unicorn again. "Are y'all ok?"

"I'm ok, besides feeling bad I knocked you over"

She waved it off. "Think nothing of it partner, be a lesson fer me, not to come out with a hot tray, and my eyes blocked"

"Can I help at least, I can't just go on without making it up to you!" He nearly begged.

"Well... not very neighborly, to have a new face about town, feel'n so low" She thought about that. "Say, who are y'all? Don't believe we've met"

"I am, Harmony Spirit. Old friend of Twilight, and student of the Queen Luna"

"Well well, seems Ponyville has two royal students now" She smiled.

The two went on, and Twilight just shrugged and walked back to her booth. He always had an easy time making friends, even under the weirdest of circumstances. Most of the Unicorns of Canterlot were unaffected by his natural charm, though he always won them over eventually, but Earth and Pegasus seem to fall for him. A bit of a curse, he felt, for he was not even trying to trick ponies into friendship, just wanted to be friendly.

Some time past, and Harmony was working with Applejack, to take orders, and do what ever he could make up for the incident. She again was starting to notice something between him, and her friend.

She decided to let him go about with his personal mission, and so she got up, and headed out. She needed to get some things done any ways.

***

Harmony Spirit had spent nearly the whole day at Apple Cider's yesterday. He found Twilight's dorm easily, thanks to Pinkie's help, and finished out that day there, till it was after hours. He could not stay there, but luckily, he thought ahead, and made arrangements with Big Macintosh. When Twilight saw him the next day, he seemed to be in even higher spirits. She wondered what had gone on over at Sweet Apple Acres, then decided not to think about it too much.

It was getting late in the afternoon, and Harmony had met just about every pony that Twilight was closest too. After seeing him around all of the five closest of her new friends, she was seeing a connection between each of them, and him. Pinkies silliness, Applejacks honest nature, saw the same kindness as with Fluttershy, when they took care of her little charges. She imagined that he would even find similarities in Rarity and Rainbow Dash, was not so sure what it would be.

After a bit of thought, she told herself, "It is just my mind projecting onto him their traits" because she felt guilty for pushing him away, and her mind wanted to make it seem that he and her had always been friends, and as close as she was now with the girls. All to keep her from feeling so bad that a pony that has been in her life for over half of it, was more a stranger, than friends she had in just a few weeks.

Satisfied by it, she moved on. She actually forgot what she was doing, till he appeared before her, as he loved to do. Teleportation was his favorite spell.

"Hiya Twilight" He greeted her, hugging to her. This time, she did hug back. "Hello Spirit"

"What'cha doing today?" His eagerness to be around her, only worsen her self loathing.

"Nothing much planned, I am just heading to the library to get some books for next week's lessons"

He stuck his tongue out, and raspberried at the idea. "Let's have fun, what's there to do here?"

She started to think about it, when she heard the sound of another unicorn using a teleportation spell, or at least sounded like one. It was immediately followed by a voice she was growing to hate. "What is this?!"

She turned to look at the wizardly dressed Trixie, Harmony looked over with her.

"Another foalish Unicorn dares enter the realm of the all mighty Trixie?!" She stormed closer, glaring at the male blue Unicorn. "Foalish indeed, and I suppose that you are another of Canterlot? You think yourself better than us in this little town?"

"No" He said, a bit confused.

"Do not listen to her Spirit, she's just a pain in the flank" She turned to speak to him, but in a way to show how little she cared that the new comer was here.

He ignored her suggestion, and moved closer. "Hi, I'm Harmony Spirit"

Trixie looked at him, and snuffed his warm greeting. "Don't dare talk to the Mighty Trixie as if you are equal"

"How should I talk?"

"As the peasant you are" She gave a mocking laugh.

He gave his tongue another bit of daylight, and blew another raspberry. "What ever, if you are gonna be a poop, then I'll be on my way" He turned away, and trotted on. "Let's see the sights Twilight"

"Ha, you make a fine pair, losers of Canterlot!"

They ignored her, something she did not take well, so pressed on her verbal assault. "Is this how they raise the ponies in our capitol city? If your magick is as poor as Twilight, then I fail to see the wonder of the city"

Harmony turned. "Twilight is a great magick user, was she inclined, she'd show you!"

Trixie had a great sense on ponies, came with her calling. She could tell he was defensive of Twilight, she did not know it was any friend he was protective of, but that did not matter. She had a button. "Great? Ha, that is a laugh indeed. Trixie is the Great, and is far better then her. Her talents are not even on the level of a new born foal"

He moved closer, as Twilight tried to stop him. "She is just trying to lure you into a duel. do not, it's not worth it" She tried to reason, having faced her once a few days ago when Twilight was having a poor day as it was.

"So afraid is she, that I'll humiliate her again?"

Harmony growled. "You best stop, or I'll show you what real magick is!"

She started to laugh. "I doubt you could manage any better then she did" She was lying, for in their duel, Twilight proved far better in her magick.

Harmony's horn started to shine a pink hue. "You want magick?" His tone was dangerous.

"Please Spirit, stop, remember what happened last time you used magick in anger?"

"I'm not mad, besides, I've gain control over that problem, Luna has taught me well" He turned to Trixie now. "And that will be demonstrated now"

"Luna? You mean the Night Queen Luna?" This thought cause her to laugh even more. "First Twilight speaks of knowing Queen Celestia, and you think you know the Night Queen?" She was partly laughing through her words. "Are all from Canterlot so delusional?"

"Don't have to believe me, but you'll regret crossing a Black Magick Pony!" He started to phase from his normal blue coat, to a ever darkening one, slowly turning into a shadow of himself.

"Anything you can do, the Great Trixie can do, far better!" Her horn lit pink, and she too started to shape shift to a blackened version of herself, not as perfect as Harmony, but still was a shadow form.

Twilight watched as they did their spell work, and was worried. She had not seen Harmony use his magick for a long time, not since a tragic incident that unleashed a darkness that lurked in him.

With his Shadowed arms, he sent out a wave of blackness, that Trixie countered with her own, still not as strong looking as his, but it held against the attack.

Like a Black Rainbow, he arched over, not looking at all like a pony any more, till he was in front of her. She dispersed herself, and reformed behind him. with a quick motion, he made a cutting arch, that should have slicer her in two, but she was not so whole to be effected.

Twilight focused more on Harmony, as they continued to fight in their dark forms. she did not even notice others stopping and watching the morbid show of a long since Forbidden art.

She felt out his energy, making sure it was his, and not the other that was deep inside. If it should take hold, this little bout would turn into a nightmare.

After a few moments, they stopped their various shows of dark magick.

"You hold your own well, but all you do it mimic. I see through your kind of magick" Shadow Harmony said, with a voice as frightening as his form.

"It would be too easy to prove you so wrong" Shadow Trixie replied.

They became two waves of blackness, and crashed against each other. Pushing, and pushing, trying to get the other to yield.

"I am starting to believe that you are Queen Luna's student"

"Why is that?" He was skeptical of how genuine she was.

"Yes, only a student could be as much a looser as that master" She had no real face, but it was not too hard to tell, she had a wicked unseen smile.

Something snapped inside Harmony, and Twilight felt it immediately. "NO!" She cried out, hoping to prevent it, but it was too late. The thing deep inside, found the door, ripped open by the attack on the one pony most dear to the male Unicorn.

"You dare?!" He moved away, turning back to the shadowy figure, then all shadows faded away. Trixie reverted, but stay her shadowy self.

"Have I struck a nerve? So sorry, I guess I'd be touchy about having her for a master, after all the evil she's done"

Most knew the story by now, once long lost to time, only to a few was the tale of Nightmare Moon known. When she made her return a few years ago, most had not noticed, for it seemed over before the darkness spread through Equestria, and the Queendom was again ruled by two. The Day Queen, decided to unbanned the old stories, for she learned that covering the past, did nothing to prevent the repeat of it, only fueled it more.

Queen Luna was not so evil, but Trixie was using it to throw Harmony off, little did she realize, she may have awaken something as bad as Nightmare Moon by doing so.

Harmony stood still, eerily so, and Twilight ran up to him, and gripped him. "Spirit, Spirit, don't let it out!" But it was too late, the light in his eyes was gone, as with any colour. Not long, his eyes closed, a good sign, if not for the fact this was just part of what was too come.

"What are you goning on about?" Trixie asked, changing to normal and coming closer.

Twilight pushed her back, as she moved away. "Stay away from him!" She was in an aura of violet, and soon she disappeared.

Trixie looked at the empty space, that once was occupied by Twilight, and then looked at her opponent, and suddenly, felt the weight of what she had done. For his horn was now nothing but a vapor mockery of it's former self, and he sprouted wings of a pegasus, but much larger then she had seen in any other. even Rainbow Dash's impressive span was a filly's by comparison. She could feel the rushing energy inside the pony "what is going on?"

***

The Day Queen was making her way through the halls of her Castle home of Canterlot. In a few hours, her sister would wake, and she would prepare to yield her charge to that of Luna's own. Their ritual of Day and Night, was well practiced, and rarely interrupted, but she stumbled, causing her guards to halt in their march and turn inward to face their now kneeling Queen.

"Your Majesty?!" One called, a veteran that had served longer then any other of her current court. He knelled down, aged, but still strong form moving close to hers. He was most trusted, for a number of reasons, one of them, being he reminded her of one of the greatest heroes of the past. He too was an Earth Pony, though he did not posses the impossible magick that the other of legend did.

She looked at him, as he held to her, ready to lift her up with his never wavering strength. "I feel... a dark presence..."

He studied her, and after their years together, knew it was not foreign, but was not who he was first thinking. "Who... who is it? Not the younger Queen?" He was uneasy to suspect her, for with the last few years, he had spent some time with Queen Luna, and knew she was nothing like the evil creature harbored in her.

"No... but it is familiar to me" He helped her back, and they moved as one toward the Night Castle.

It was not long, till they was in the darker halls of the Night Castle. The Queen of the Twilight Realm, was not so dark as her tastes might make her seem.

Less time than it would normally, the two Queens were face to face. Both held deep concern, for the both knew what it was they felt. The fact was only further proven, when Twilight came rushing into the hall. She looked completely destroyed, almost as if she was the blame.

She did feel partly so, because if she had been a better friend to him, maybe she could have stopped him before it was too late.

***

Ponyville was in a panic, as many ponies and creatures were now running out the of the town. A tornado was whipping around, wrecking the nearest buildings, and in the middle, a Pegasus who looked asleep, yet was aloft, flying with no effort. His wings flapped, but so slowly, and effortlessly, that it was a mock to any of the fliers who knew what it took to be airborne.

Only the transformed Harmony and one other stood in the epicenter of the terror. Still being as defiant, and stubborn, Trixie called at the monstrosity. "You think you've won?! You cannot beat the Great Trixie!"

She shot out some spells, but it was no more then pebbles to a mountain at this point.

It seemed otherwise, by her stance and refusal to move, but she was not in her choice, as he body was so frozen with fear at the sight of this creature, she could do nothing but put on her show.

Soon a flash came, and Trixie turned her head enough to see Twilight, with not one, but both Queens of Equestria, and a small force of Guards. This seem to free her from the spot, and she moved out of the way as Celestia came closer with Luna near by. Twilight moved toward Trixie, as the Guards took up points around the tornado.

"I feared he would fall again..." Celestia said, with a deep pain.

"He is not lost!" Luna declared, looking from her student to Celestia "He can be saved..."

The elder looked at her for a moment. "But how many times?" She started, but stopped, not wanting to lecture her, in public, or at such a time. The pointed needed to be said. "He is that vortex that swallowed countless lives and a city, and very nearly two... This is the second time since then, he has become the Sleeper..."

"I will not give on him! He has made great progress!" She stood defiant, and despite her slight decrease of height to her sister, was not any less small.

"This is not his fault, he was provoked" Twilight said, coming over to them, dragging Trixie. "She caused this, by striking his weakest points. His love for those close to him"

They all looked at the blue unicorn, who crossed her arms, and looked away. Luna's gaze was most destructive. She wanted to grab her, and show her was the many years of Black Arts could be used at, but knew better than to fall prey to her emotions, something she tried to teach her student, she instead turned to him, now in the form they have dubbed "Sleeping Vortex"

She knew what to do, but each time, it's effects seem to weaken, and she feared that if this did keep happening, she could not stir her student back from the void.

With great focus, she began to shift her form, becoming less and less whole, and more like a specter. The other watched as she did so, only Celestia was not so surprised by it. As a ghostly form, she ascended and went into the tornado. She did not use her wings, or seemed effected by the roaring winds, and soon she was right before the sleeping pegasus. He was once the unicorn she treated like a son. In a way, he was. Adopted by her, when he was found lost, and had no memories or any one to care for him.

She reached into his mind, with a visual act of her ghostly hands going into the head of the sleeping one, her eyes now closed, and her own mind focused on the work she now took on.

The last time this happened, Twilight was too young to take the sight of all this, and was taken away by the guards. She now watched with heavy heart, at the sight of the Night Queen using an invasive spell. One that caused the other she worked on, to tremble of not the winds, but the surging in his mind. Twilight still felt a deep guilt that she could not hold him back from this, even as the true culprit stood by her, watching nearly as intensity as she was, she still felt no other was to blame.

After a moment, the sleeping, once unicorn, reached up, and grabbed the arms of the Queen, and ripped them from his form. She shot her eyes open, and shock as she was now being held, not by her student, but the evil in him. Despite her form now, he held on as if she never went intangible. She soon was feeling the effects of the winds, and when he let her go, she was flung out of the vortex.

Celestia and Twilight rushed over to where she would land, or rather crash, as she was still shocked by the fact her spell utterly failed. She laid in defeat, not daring to get up, as if the act was only more shame to her.

"Luna, what... what happened?" The older sister asked, kneeling by her.

"He is too deep, the evil has him trapped...." She sounded utterly tired, and weak. She, a master of the Dark arts that swallowed her once, and continue to plague her and the student, was no match for the one in him.

She shifted, and then started to stand quickly, before her sister had time to offer help. "The only thing left..." She started toward the vortex again, walking slowly, as a new aura started to surround her, one more sinister and powerful then she should be capable of.

Celestia knew it, and rushed over to her, grabbing her. "No! you would have us face two nightmares!"

Luna, still bathed in blackened light, looked at her. "I can control her for a short time, long enough to stop him"

With renewed urgency, the Day Queen tightened her grip. "What you plan is foalish! If it fails, then we would be at the mercy of a struggle of two monsters... without the Elements, I could not hope to stop either of you!"

As they debited, they did not see Twilight rush past. She had enough of blaming herself, and decided to take her own action. When either Queen noticed the flash of magick, she was gone.

"What was that?" Queen Celestia asked, looking toward the vortex, and then up. "Twilight?!" She called out, seeing her student now in the vortex, holding onto the figure inside.

She was assaulted by the winds, but she would not loose her grip. She clung to him, pressing herself tightly to his form. She spoke, but it seemed swallowed by the rushing air.

Trixie looked on from afar, despite her stance the whole time, and her attitude, she hid her guilt under neither. It crawled out slowly, and now as Twilight was put on the line, she trembled a bit. "Damn it..." She muttered, and she disappeared from the scene.

The Two Queens looked on, confused on what they could do, Luna stopped her change, and Celestia released her. They only watched as their students now struggled.

***

Harmony Spirit, stirred, and rolled over in his bed. He looked at the familiar sight of his massive collection of stuff dolls through hazy eyes, and after a moment, he shot up. Looking around, he saw the room he had in the Night Castle of Canterlot. "Did I just dream all that?" He asked himself, thinking back to what he could remember. He knew parts, but not the whole. He remembered Trixie, and how she was taunting him. Something he could care less about, but then she attacked Twilight, and even if she hardly spent time with him, he felt for her as he would any friend. With that meant, he would not stand for anypony hurting her. Then he remembered what sent him over, she started on his mentor, and dearest pony in his life, Luna.

He could recall how his blood was boiling, and felt the sensation of something taking over him slowly as she went on and on till he was so blinded by his rage... no, was not his rage. He was mad, but not as mad as he ended up being. The darkness inside him, fanned the flames, without speaking a word. All so it could reclaim him. As it had.

He could recall parts after, as he felt Luna's presence for a time, and then somepony else... Twilight. He could make out some words she had spoken to him.

"Spirit... I know you are there..." He lost some of it, but when she came through again he heard it so clear, and when he recalled those words he knew it was not her voice, but her heart to his. "I wish that I had not been so stuck in my books, when we grew up... I wish I had spent more time with you, I now know the joy of friendship, and I want us to be friends, like you always tried to be... Please break from that demon in you, and come back to us" He lost the words, but could hear something, a faint sound, but it soon came clear to him, and at that moment, he lost any memories. That would follow after that, it must have been when his will won out. As the time before, when Luna saved him when he was so much younger, he lost all consciousness.

He looked ahead, and thought about it all. "I thought I had this thing beat..." He spoke in his mind.

He did not notice, before he started to recall the past, that there was a guard in his room, and they had left shortly after he sat up. So when a knock came to the door, he was not expecting to see the Queens and Twilight walk in.

He looked over to them, and smiled. "Hiya..." He spoke weakly out loud, a bit tired still, from it all.

Luna was first, she had to be, for none had a bond as strong as theirs. They shared a past, and a curse, that was nearly a mirror of one another. Not even Star Shadows, who nearly lived her very life, but he did not have his demons any more. She moved up, and embraced him so tight, he was near passing out again, but he fought it, as he held back. "I'm sorry... my Queen..."

She slacked a bit, when he said that. He never addressed her so formally, he was the only other one, besides her sister, who called her simply by her name. Not with titles, or added words of respect, not that he lacked it. It bugged her a bit, but she knew why he did it. He felt a deeply regretful for what happened, he must have felt he lost her mutual feelings for him. "Do not... call me that..." She began, holding him close to her, as she whispered. "I will never stop caring about you, no matter what"

He could feel a tear on his cheek, but he was not sure if it was his own, or hers. Very well was both. "Of course... Luna" He started out unsure, but when he spoke her name freed of rituals, he smiled.

She let go, and stepped back, as Celestia and Twilight took up her sides. "I do not think Ponyville is as good for you, as it is for my student" The Queen tried to make the situation a bit lighter. "Glad to have you back to yourself Harmony Spirit"

He gave her a smile, and she nodded, and turned, her sister turning with her. With a last look back from the younger, they left him with Twilight, who looked a bit afraid.

"Do you remember anything?" She asked him, when she was sure to be alone. Not that she had anything to say that neither Queen could not hear.

"Only parts" He said. "I do remember everything before transforming into the Sleeper, and not much after"

She nodded, sitting on the bed, when he patted it as a hint for her too. They sat silent for a few moments, when he looked ahead, at the walls, adorned with various things, mostly toys, and figures of his varied interests. "You know..." He started, still looking away, but Twilight turned to look at him. "I grew up with you, since I had no memories before coming here. I've said I've known you my whole life, and it's true, cause I may not even have a life before. I could could be the demon inside the demon... or angel, that might be more fitting" He thought a bit more, before going on. "I can remember so much now, of growing up within the Castle, and spending time making friends with everypony I met. You were the only one who seem to avoid me"

She sighed, looking down. "I know... I wish I had been closer to you..."

"I might have a lot of ponies in my life, but I only have a few friends I consider close" He looked at her, but she did not see him. "You are one"

She turned, seeing his smiling face, that one that even when she grew up, could not help but smile back at, even when she wanted nothing but to study. Now, was no exception. As she smiled, she asked "How can you say I am though? I feel I hardly even know a reason, since I spent such little time with you. Even when we were together, I never paid you much attention"

"Well, you must have been paying attention, more than you think. You know that song that Luna sang to me when I was growing up, when she laid me down to bed"

Twilight paused, and wondered what he meant, and recalled in that moment she was clinging to the Sleeper, all she could think about was that song he use to sing when he was happier than normal, one she had been humming more and more since she came to Ponyville.

After a moment she felt an urge, and leaned over, and hugged to him. "So you did hear me?"

He nodded, as he hugged her back. "Some of it, but the right parts I think. You saved me"

She smiled, and sat back up. Then recalling something, she pulled out her Bay-B "Oh, the girls back in Ponyville sent their best wishes. They wanted to come, but we had already returned to Canterlot, by the time I filled them in"

"What? Aw, that's so sweet" He shifted, and jumped out of bed, and Twilight covered her eyes.

"Spirit, your naked"

He turned, and blew her a raspberry. "You and those silly shames. I must return so I can let them know I'm ok!"

"Please, put something on before you go..." Twilight asked, still covering her sight.

"Only cause my dear friend asks" He smiled, though she could not see, she did smile back.

"Ok" He threw on his sleeveless hoodie.

She looked, and then covered her eyes again. "Not nearly enough!" Since that was all he threw on.

"Too late!" His horn went pink, and he flashed in a teleportation spell.

"HARMONY!" She called after him.