That was awesome! I am constantly shocked just how strong my trainer in. Pandora could sense quite a bit of danger coming from the bar they went into so she warned the others, only for two stallions to be blasted out by my trainer a minute later. I guess those two insulted Dusk and Twilight or something because those two got their flanks handed to them by Nat and Polearm.

I look and see the two beaten stallions being dragged off by Ed and the others when his voice sounds out in my head again. ‘Follow them into Ponyville, if you would. Stick to the shadows. Luna spell will only last for around thirty to forty more minutes. It’ll only be long enough to follow through with the next part of Tia’s plan. We’ll join up in the town. Selene will meet up with you two outside the train station. From there take a chariot with her to Ponyville.’

‘Be careful you two. We’ll see you in Ponyville and enjoy your trip,’ said Luna. ‘We’ll try.’ I tell them before jumping back onto Pandora’s back, the Absol beginning to head to the train station.

We made to the train station just in time to see the date group getting on some carriage.

‘How are we supposed to hide from them on those?’ asked Pandora in a low whisper. ‘We can always just ride on the luggage carrier on the back of them. We’ll just have to hang on as if our life depended on it, which they would.’ I commented. ‘I wish I could learn ‘Fly’ right now. Just know if I fall, I blame you.’ ‘You’re more than welcome to cause I'm blaming me to. If that happens.’

We made it to the train station with a little bit of shoving. When we arrived there was a large carriage waiting to take the four of us to Ponyville. I wonder what Celestia could’ve planned for us. I was also curious what this Ponyville was like as I had only been there when Artemis and Pandora showed up, but even then I couldn’t explore due to exhaustion. We climbed into the carriage and were off to Ponyville. The guards told us it was going to be about an hour and a half flight. So we got comfortable when I looked over to Twi who was hanging on to Polearm. She didn’t want to admit it but she liked him. I had my own question and now was the time to ask them.

“Okay, Polearm I have a few questions I would like answered while we’re waiting to get to Ponyville,” I said summoning a quill and scroll. “What is it you want to as Dusk?” asked the confused looking guard. “What exactly was going through your mind when you used, ah-”

“Talent Magic,” interrupted Polearm with a proud grin. “Yea Talent Magic. What was it like?” I asked curiously getting my quill ready. Twi had summoned her own by this point too. “It was much different from the sensation I get from when I use magic strengthen really. But instead of feeling inside of my body I focused it on the outside mainly my hand. I found myself wishing I’d had a weapon to defend Twilight and your honor and that’s when that Naginata, as Nat called it, started forming. The only reason I can think the armor formed was out of my habit for wearing it in combat.”

“But what was it made of though? I could tell it was some form of stone or rock you’d gather from the surrounding area.” I asked, leaning in a bit. “I don’t know. Like I said I just did I normally do but tried applying it externally instead of internally,” said Polearm as he turned his attention to the window.

“That kind of reminds me of when I use my Invasion Kunai. I have to focus my Telepathy, a style of magic that is purely mental in nature, and make it physical.” Nat comments. “I’m guessing it’s the same concept behind the technique that Sir Edward taught us, but instead we focus the magic into our muscles this enhancing out us physically. Like I said the same technique applied in a different way. Wasn’t sure it would work really. I didn’t even know if the weapon would form from stone to whatever it made of.” added Polearm.

“You know Polearm that was incredibly dangerous to try. Don’t get me wrong I’m all for testing new magics and spells but what if wouldn’t have worked. What if it would’ve backfired and in a crowded are like that?” commented Twi with a little anger in her eyes. “Sorry Twilight. I was thinking more with my heart instead of my head,” said Polearm as his face turned red looking into Twilight's eyes.

“I wouldn’t mind trying to learn that trick myself,” I say curiously. “Not up to me Dusk. Sir Edward is the one who came up with this magic skill n the first place. I only changed it for my purpose. And even then I only changed its application by reversing it a little,” added Polearm. “I’m with Polearm Dusk. Maybe after you have a more stable hold on your regular magic you can give it a try if it’s okay with Ed,” said Nat with worry. “But why?” asked I.

“Think about it Dusk. If this ‘Talent Magic’ is exactly what its name implies and goes of our theory then it can be incredibly dangerous for certain talents, such as ours,” explained Twilight. “I’m guessing you're referring to magic based talents then,” I said looking down to my hand. “Exactly, and who knows this could’ve been just a one-time thing for Polearm. Magic is greatly influenced by our emotion as you know and him saying he his feelings and sense of duty were the only things I can think that brought his magic out,” said Twi as she snuggled up tp Polearm all the while the stallion looked out the window as his face was shining red.

“Hey what’s with the glow of in the distance?” asked Nat as she looked out the window confused. “I thought we were headed to Ponyville, not Manehattan.”

“Oh no,” said Twi. “You don’t think the Princess,” added Polearm. “What?” I asked. Still not knowing what was happening. “Princess Celestia scheduled our date to line up with the Candle Festival,” answered Twi. “I know for a fact that we don’t have this in our Equestria,” I say in confusion still.

“It’s not well known outside Ponyville and Canterlot either. No one really remembers how it was started either,” said Polearm as he dimmed the lights in the carriage and started to tell the story of the festival. “ Most say that long ago not long after Ponyville’s founding there was a creature in Everfree the would come out at night. It hated light and everything to do with it. So ponies would walk around with candles even during the day. Soon the candles began to run out to where there were only a few hundred or so left. Not wanting to go outside for fear of the creature the ponies of the times pooled the candles together until they could get more.”

“The thing is no pony wanted to make the trip due to the feat of the creature. Not even mail would run to Ponyville. Which is why Princess Celestia didn’t hear about things until after the creature appeared. By the time she got word of it the ponies of Ponyville were down to the last of there candles. So they decided to hold up the storehouse with the candles,” added Twi. “The creature couldn’t resist easy prey such as this so it attacked the storehouse. They ponies decided to light all of the remaining candles in hopes they would stave off the beast till morning, but the thing was for to willing to get food. No pony really knows what happened next, but it’s said that because of all the candles light that the Princess was able to see it in her castle.”

“The final moments of Ponyville’s residents were upon them and that’s when Princess Celestia arrived and fought off the beast. Some say she killed the thing and some say banished it to Tartarus. No pony really can say because they never saw what really happened. The only thing they do know is if it hadn’t been for their candles and togetherness then they wouldn’t have made it that night. And that my friends, is the story of the Candle Festival.” said Polearm as he readjusted the lights.

“So it's kind of like the origins of the jack-o-lanterns for Halloween back in mine and Ed’s homeworld. You would carve pumpkins and place candles in them to ward off evil spirits,” explained Nat while she scratched her head. “But this Festival celebrates how important something so small can bring us hope, togetherness, and protection. Even when all hope seems lost,” I added.

“You’re right Dusk and so is Nat in a way,” said Twi with a smile still hanging on to Polearms arm. He didn’t mind in the least, either. “Let’s enjoy the glow from the festival while we’re up here girls. You won’t be able to see it for a while once you two go home,” said the still blushing guard. “I agree, and we’ll probably be landing soon since we can see the lights,” said Nat as she snuggled up to me on my right side.

I couldn’t help but feel as if she was bothered by something. She hadn’t been sleeping well the past few nights. Sometimes I would get up and see her tossing and turning in her bed at night when I would get up to get water at Twilight’s parents' house. Plus with how stressed she has been lately, she’s all but lost that happy and shy attitude I fell in love with. Hopefully, I can figure out and help fix what’s wrong with her.

Before long the carriage touched down along the edge of the entrance to Sweet Apple Acres. I was honestly kind of excited to see a festival that is unique to this world. Once all of us step off the carriage and thanked the guards/drivers we began to head into the town proper. I was in awe at all the decorations and candles, it really was like Halloween.

“Hey, guys!” We all turn and see the rest of the Elements and Discord walking up to us. “Oh, hey girls and Discord. What’s up?” Twi asks, finally letting go of her date.

“Not much, just enjoying the festival. But what about you four? I thought Rarity said you four were on a date tonight.” RD says. “We are. The princess decided to make it line up with the festival. Apparently.” Dusk answers, the others nodding. They then notice me and Dusk looking around the town with intrigue.

“What’s with those looks, girls? It’s just the Candle Festival.” The prismatic mare says. “Well we don’t have this festival back in our Equestria, so we want to make the most of it and learn what we can about it,” I tell her, looking at a couple decorations.

“Really? Well then, just so you two know, we normally have a dance near the town center later, so I think that would be a great spot for you four to go.” Rarity says in sudden excitement. We all look to each other and realize this was what Celestia had planned for us.

“Why am I not surprised there is a dance here? At least Dusk and I know how to dance, but do you two?” I ask the other couple, both of them looking elsewhere with sheepish expressions.

“I was trained by the princess in formal dancing at the palace and I’ve had a few dances here at the Pinkie’s parties but I’ve never slow danced with another pony before,” said Twi as her voice died off. “No need to worry about me in that dancing department ladies. I was trained in formal dancing at the academy and by my family. I also spent a great deal of time at the local bars when I was off duty in Canterlot,” added Polearm. “I hate to cut this short, but Rarity have you seen Spike around? I wasn’t able to come the other day so I’m a little worried.”

“No need to worry Twilight. Spike was fine when I was over at the library earlier. He was just doing what he always does, sweeping the floors, organizing the shelves, reading his comics, the usual.” Dusk says. “I know that part Dusk. You told me earlier. I asked Rarity because he’s been spending the night at her house and working at the library during the day. Wait you didn’t know?” asked Twi in shock.

“No? I just assumed you let him stay at the library alone. He seems a lot more mature than my Spike, so I thought you allowed a little more independence.” Dusk responds. “How old is your Spike if I may ask?” asked the other unicorn. “Eleven and a half.” We say together. “Spike here is fifteen though he still looked elven before Ed’s training. Apparently, it had something to do with magically stunted growth.” Twi explained with a giggle.

“Huh. I wonder if Lex’s Spike is the same since she is training him and the others to be wizards.” I mumble to myself. “If that is the case, I might need to perform a magic scan on my Spike when we get home,” Dusk says.

“They could be. I heard Sir Edward talking about certain classes of dragons that were once known as mystic dragons. He said the could perform magic similar to unicorns and were pretty good friends with the just about any creature they came across. Sadly they are or were a very rare dragon class. They were feared among the dragons and were said to have been wiped out by a dragon lord due to this fear,” added Polearm as we walked toward Ponyville.

We just made some small talk for the most part on the way to town, though I mostly stayed silent, trying to think of how I am going to explain to Dusk about her darkness and learning from Luna. I know I told Luna and Celestia I would tell Dusk about it tonight, but I still couldn't get rid of the worry in my mind. I knew where I wanted to tell her, I just didn’t know How to say it.

I was pulled back for a second by Twilight, “When are you going to tell Dusk about the dark magic sealed inside her body Nat?” I look to my marefriend who was talking to the girls ahead of us. “Tonight, probably after our dance. I was planning on going over to a pond that is a bit into the forest. We go there a couple times back in our world to meditate and relax. I just hope it exists in this world too.”

“It does. Just be careful, the Everfree here is more dangerous than yours, especially at night. I know you were just looking out for the one you love Nat but you should’ve told her right away about that seal. You didn’t see the fear in her eyes when Ed and I found she had dark magic in her body,” Twi said as she started to pick up the pace to catch up to the others.

For what’s left of the walk to town, I was in the back and silent, trying to gather my thoughts and plans.

“Hey! Nat! Come on we're almost to the town square and I here princess Celestia is here!” shouted RD. “Yes, do hurry darling! Everypony is saying that she’s going to sing the first couples song! I’m going to hurry to meet up with Spike girls. See you all later.” Rarity said as she shot off into the crowd of ponies. I am sure my Rarity would be rolling her eyes if she saw that.

I quickly catch up with the others, seeing a large stage near the town hall has been set up and there are a few ponies with instruments on the stage. I see Derpy and her family near one of the food stands, the trio smiling and waving at us. I smile and wave back, happy to see any version of Derpy happy. Dinky starts to wave for me to come over. I make my way over to their stand seeing a rather cheery little unicorn.

“Excuse me but are you Ms.Natali?” asked Dinky. I giggle a little as she is just like the one back home. “Yes, but you don’t need to put miss in my name, it’s just Natali or Nat. It’s nice to meet you Dinky.” I say, shaking her little hand. “Nice to meet you too Nat. I heard from my daddy that you like blueberry muffins, so me and mommy made you some,” she said pulling out a tray full of their from under the counter.

I smile wide and grab one from the tray and take a bite. It was just like back home, guess all Derpy’s know how to make great muffins. “This is perfect Dinky. Thank you.” I say with a smile, rubbing her head.

“I do hope you’ll come by the house and chat with us before you have to return to your Equestria Nat. Time may be a little stubborn when it comes to Displaced but he’s still more than willing to visit with them,” said Derpy as she nuzzled Dinky. “You should get back to your friends now. The bands all set up and the Princess is about to start speaking.” I nod to the pegasus and give the little filly a quick hug before heading back to the others, not all that difficult when my marefriend is the only one who looks more like a pony than a human.

“Hey, Nat. I was wondering where you went.” Dusk says as I step up next to her. “Yeah, just went over to say hi to Dinky and Derpy, and I can say those two are almost exactly like back home,” I say with a small smile. “Anyways, the princess is going to be singing the first couple songs, right?”

“That’s what everypony was saying on our way up here. It’s going to be a real treat. Other than when Princess Luna and Sir Edward sang at the wedding I’ve never heard of royalty singing at social events. What about in your world Dusk? Has the Princess ever sang there?” asked Twi.

“Not really, the only royalty that’s sung to me back home at least is Cadence when she would tuck me in for bed when she foal sat me. I may not know how the princesses sound, but Nat and her siblings are really great in my opinion.” Dusk answers and I blush a little from the praise.

“I know that Luna sang to you when you were in the hospital. It was simply amazing too. I think she missed being able to sing that lullaby,” added Polearm looking to the stars and then the stage. “Hey isn’t that the special ops team that was tailing us in Canterlot?” Polearm asked pointing to the group behind the stage.

I look at the duo and silently sigh. I know Ed and Luna had been following us in those disguises from back when they took those two stallions away. I was able to check their magic signature with my Vectors and I wasn’t all the surprised. I chose to keep it to myself though since I didn’t really mind having Luna around.

“Polearm I know I was acting dense earlier but even I could tell that the minotaur was Edward and the mare was Princess Luna in disguise. Princess Celestia probably had them tailing us to make sure nothing bad happened. Safe to say nothing bad that we couldn’t handle.” interrupted Twi. “Sorry but other than my stunt earlier I turned off all my magic sensing abilities,” laughed the guard pony.

I look towards the area for the dancers as the others talk amongst themselves, seeing a bunch of couples going to it. As I am looking over the couple, I see a few I recognize after a second, like Mr. and Mrs. Cake, and Big Mac and Cheerilee. Though, I was getting a really weird feeling as I was looking past the dance floor and through the crowd.

I look through the crowd some more and see the twins Cloudkicker and Flitter, and who I guess is Fleetfoot all together, seeming to be waiting for someone. I am about to ask RD if she knows who their dates are when I see three stallions going up and I swear I can hear glass shattering again.

They may look more human and seem totally calm, but I would recognize those Cutie Marks anywhere. I begin to hyperventilate, the others not noticing as I just continue to stare at who those three mares dates are.

DumbBell, Score, and Hoops. The next thing I know, I am back in the alley, on that night. The blood pooling at my feet and along the walls. “No, no, no no…” I clutch my head as it comes back again, the way my mind was so cold, the fact I couldn't care less what happened to them.

I jump as I feel a hand on my shoulder. Looking up, I realize I was on my knees with tears flowing down my face. I look to the hand and follow it up to RD’s rose eyes. “Nat, what’s wrong? What happened?” I try to talk but I can’t get my breath. I feel as a pair of arms wrap around me, Dusk helping back to my feet.

“Natali, what happened?” She asks both gently and sternly. I can’t answer, but I shakily raise my hand and point to the three stallions. Dusks eyes widen then she looks to me again before hugging me tightly. “Don’t worry Nat. Nothing will happen. I promise.” She carefully leads me towards a bench away from the crowd, not letting me go for a second. She then just stares into my eyes, seemingly looking for something.

“You had another flashback, didn’t you?” She questions gently, the others nearby looking confused and worried. I let a few more tears fall as I nod my head slowly. “Hey, Dusk is Nat going okay? She looked like she saw someponies she knew and completely shut down there,” asked RD with concern.

“She saw this world’s Hoops, DumbBell, and Score and is caused her to have a really bad flashback of what happened on Nightmare Night back home,” explained Dusk. “Those three are really bad news if they're here. They’re bullies and rapist. They tried to rape poor Derpy back in our world, but Nat stopped them before they ever got the chance. She did a few things that traumatized her quite a bit. We need to put a stop to whatever they’re up to now,” Dusk said as she held on to me stroking the back of my head.

“Sorry, Dusk that’s a no-go,” said RD crossing her arms. “But why? They’re bad guys. We need to stop-”

“NO! Look those three may be bad on your world but here the pretty swell dudes to hang around. They’re some of mine and Fluter’s best friends from back when we were kids. I can’t believe I’m giving the same speech Ed gave me this morning. Really puts it into perspective when it’s the other side of the coin. Anyways, those three are honest, hardworking, and all around kind-hearted stallions that would help any pony that asked for it. Sure their dates are a little airheaded but they’d defend them with every last breath they had. If you don’t believe me then go and as Aj, Flutters, or even Discord. Now, I’ve got to go find Soarin. We’re supposed to meet up at the fountain. I hope you’ll be okay not and I’m sorry for snapping at you Dusk. Man Ed’s really starting to rub off on me,” she said shaking her head as she walked off to meet up with her date.

Dusk helped me back to my feet and I look to the trio in question. They did seem as if they had no ill intentions for the mares they came with. I decide to have a closer look with my Vectors. RD was telling the truth about them. If anything these guys were the polar opposites to our worlds versions. I shouldn’t be surprised though as the Blueblood here was a total ass and he wasn’t just putting on an act like the Blueblood back home.

“I’ll be okay Dusk. Thanks for helping me up. Now let’s get to the dance floor and show these guys how we dance back home,” I said looking to my marefriend as she blushed. “Come on slowpokes!” shouted Polearm as he and Twi ran past us. “Hey, we’re not pokemon!” Dusk and I shouted with smiles as we joined our other dimensional friends.

We danced for quite some time. I have no clue what time it is right now we’re just having so much fun. I hadn’t seen Dusk the happy in weeks. Not since she got her magic from Lex at least. It was nice to see a smile on her face. Polearm wasn’t kidding when he said he knew how to dance either. Before I knew what was going on he and Discord got into a dance-off and that lead them to lead the whole dance floor in some sort of split group dance battle. I’m pretty sure this had nothing to do with chaos magic as both Twilight and Fluttershy were standing off to the side with beet red faces. Dusk and I only laughed at this.

“Okay, every pony I hope you’ve all enjoyed that little battle between the Lord of Chaos and Sir Polearm because we won’t be seeing something like that for a while. Now, it's time for the moment all of you couples have been waiting for,” announced Mayor Mare. “Princess Celestia herself is going to sing the first couple's dance of the night. So all of you who came or have their special somepony with come down or stay on the dance floor. And I’m sorry, but for those who don’t have a dance partner you must leave the dance floor.”

The ponies quickly started to scramble to find dance partners as none of them wanted to miss the chance to dance to there Princess’s song. That’s when I saw Celestia start to come to the front of the stage. She wasn’t in her usual white gown but a golden sleeveless dress the adorned with diamonds and amber stone sand she was in golden heels. Her crown was gone only to be replaced with a shining tiara the had a large yellow in the center with opal in the shape of rays as if they were from the sun. Her hair had been pulled back into a ponytail with a white shining ribbon the flowed with her mane.

‘How the hell did she do all this into just a few hours’ I thought as she moves to the mic.

“Good evening my little ponies. I hope you're all enjoying the Candle Festival. This is a time in which we come together to celebrate the sacrifice and togetherness. This is why I personally wanted to sing a special song this year. We have a few in this group that knows what it means to sacrifice for the one they care and cherish.” said Celestia as she looked into the crowd, but I knew she was talking about me and Dusk.

“Now without further delay, I will be singing a song called ‘1000 Years’.” said Celestia as she began to sing. Her voice was so soft but powerful. Dusk grabbed my right hand and pulled me to the dance floor. I placed my left hand on her waist and my right in her left and we started to move to Celestia song. I stared into Dusk eyes for what felt like hours until a realized that the song was over and another had more fast tempo one had taken its place.

We rejoined our friend on the sidelines. “Nice movement out there you two,” said Polearm. “I was so lost in Celestia song and Dusk’s eyes I didn’t really know what was going on,” I laughed. “It was like I was in a trance myself when I was listening to the song. I really let Polearm do all the work but I still really enjoyed it. I’ve never thought I would have this type of experience.” said Twilight as she looked at Polearm with eyes as big as saucers.

“My that was certainly an interesting song from the Princess,” said Rarity while fanning herself. “You said it Rarity. I can’t remember the last time got lost in music,” added Polearm. “You think the Princess used magic in that song?”

“Why yes, I did Polearm. It was a spell that awakens the feelings in your heart and allows you to connect to the one who you share those feelings for or with. But the spell can only be cast through a song of equal or stronger emotion. It was a skill that was originally used by the sirens for feeding on negative emotions and magic, but I was able to adapt and change it with the help of my brother to a spell that helps other connect and or heal,” explained Celestia with a smile coming over to our group.

“Damn, I can think of a few other uses for that spell. Maybe you should teach it to Cadence to make her matchmaking easier.” I say to the Alicorn. She seems to ponder this before nodding. “I’m sure she could use it rather easily Nat. Cadence prefers allowing things to progress on there own though. I’ve offered to teach her the spell many times but she always turns me down.”

“I heard from Ed and Luna that you and Polearm got a little rough with some stallions at a bar in Canterlot that tried to pick-up Dusk and Twilight,” said Celestia with an evil smirk. “We’re sorry about that Princess,” Polearm apologized hanging his head in shame. “It’s quite, alright Polearm. In fact, I’m very proud of the two of you. You both showed a lot of restraint in the matter as you both could’ve easily beat them within an inch of their lives. Yet you only left with them with a few cracked bones and bruises. Which is no less than what they deserved. Now, I must take my leave of you as I must attend to others but I’ll be back on stage for another song later. For now, I think you should enjoy the Festival and keep dancing. Luna is going to sing in a bit and then she and Ed will be doing a duet. Enjoy the rest of your evening.” said, Celestia, as she waved and walked away.

“Even Luna and Ed are going to sing tonight. Man the Princess really pulled out all the stops for tonight. I wonder how she got Ed and Luna to agree to this?” I asked looking to the others. “Believe it or not Nat. Luna loves to sing to other and as long as he’s with her, Ed will sing with no objections. As long as the songs appropriate that is,” said Twilight. “Yea, when we were training, Ed told us that Luna would often sing for him when they were in the gardens together. He apparently taught a few songs to the Princesses from his homeworld,” explained the guard pony as he motioned towards the stage.

Luna was now on it and headed toward the mic. Her illusion spell had been dropped for a while now as she looked like her usual alicorn self. She was wearing a silver gown that twinkled in the light of the festival. She was wearing a white gold tiara with a crescent moon on it that match a necklace she had around her neck. She reached the mic and spoke.

“Good evening every pony I hope you’re enjoying the festival tonight,” she said as she looked to the entire crowd before her with a soft smile. “It brings my heart such joy to see you all couples dancing under my moon. Speaking of couples, I want to dedicate this song to a very special couple. I won’t say who as to give them privacy. Now if all would return to the dance floor with your partners.”

As if some force pulled us all from our seats we were back on the dance floor. I looked over to see Polearm and Twilight in each other arms. They weren’t blushing at all. They were simply that in each other arms with Twi resting her head on Polearms chest. That confirmed to me how she truly felt for the guard.

‘Natali, bring Dusk to my chambers tomorrow morning after breakfast.’ said Luna vai telepathy. ‘You got it, Princess.’ I confirmed. ‘No doubt Tia told you of the Siren’s Heart Song spell. I will be using it for the two of you with this song. It will allow you to have an easier time with the events later on tonight.’ explained Luna. ‘Thanks, Princess.’ I said as I pulled Dusk in close.

“Without further adieu. I will sing a song called Crossing the Field,” said Lunar Princess as she started to sing as Ed played the piano behind her.

Everyone danced to the melody as Luna sang. I have to say this song reached me and Dusk more than Celestia’s did. I looked to Dusk who had tears rolling down her face. I knew it was the right time to have our talk.

“Hey Dusk,” I whispered pulling her in close. “What is it Nat,” she answered. “When Luna’s finished singing let’s head over to the pool in the Everfree. Twi said it’s in the same spot as back home. I have something I really need to discuss with you, okay,” I said, looking to Luna as she nears the end of the song and I could feel her spell fading. “Okay, Nat let’s go then.”

“Thank you everypony and hold on because my husband and I will be singing one more song towards the end of the festival and again. Thank you, my little ponies,” said Luna as she joined Ed as he got up from the piano. They exited the stage and met up with Celestia.

“Let’s go before anyone notices us,” I said pulling Dusk along with me to the pond. She nods and follows me past the crowd and towards the edge of the forest. Of course, Twi’s warning earlier made me a little worried, but I just divided my attention with my eyes and my Vectors. After a couple of minutes of walking through the forest, we arrive at the pond in question. It was fed by a little stream and leads to a small waterfall, eventually merging with the river that goes through Fluttershy’s house.

It was perfect timing too since there was a bunch of fireflies floating above the water, the lights reflecting across the water. Dusk was looking around the area with a nostalgic smile.

“I really missed this place. It’s nice to be back, even if we are still in another world.” She says, sitting on the edge of the water. I look to her from the back by the woods before taking a deep breath.

“Twilight.” She turns to me with a raised brow. I sigh and take a seat. “Listen, we really need to talk about something important.” She looks worried as I say that. “Nat? What’s going on?” She asks cautiously. I sigh again and dig into my purse, taking out the release seal. “What’s that?” I handed the sheet to her.

“It’s the release seal...for your dark magic,” I say, looking at the water. I can see Twilight looking to me in shock through the reflection of the water. “You-you knew about that?” She asks in shock. “I knew since you got them. During Hearths Warming, Lex’s letter said that she gave you a very powerful style of darkness magic, ironically called Heavenly Body Magic. But she sealed it within you until such time as you were ready.” I say, still not looking to her.

“Why didn’t you tell me!?” She yells. I still look to the water, not noticing as tears begin to fall from my eyes. “I-I was scared,” I say quietly. “Scared of what? That I’m not strong enough? That I can’t control it?” I get up from my spot and turn to her.

“I was scared that I would lose you! I was scared that Celestia would see you as evil because of your dark magic and I wouldn’t be able to protect you!” I yell to her, Twilight flinching back. “Twilight, you told me how our Celestia basically went on a crusade to erase every scrap of dark magic out of our world. If she learned that you had a type of darkness she’s never seen before…Twilight. I can’t lose you.”

I can see that Twilight is looking to me with wide eyes so I sigh and sit back down on the edge of the water, trying to catch my breath. I think that was the first time I have ever blown up like that in years. Before long, I feel as Twilight sits next to me again.

“So, your nightmares the past few days. They were from this fear?” She questions gently. “Mostly. Before it was just from what happened during Nightmare Night, but then after you told me about Celestia’s ‘anti-dark magic crusade’, and I had all these fears just staying in the back of my mind. Before when Sora was herself, she was able to help keep them at bay. Take half the fear, you know? I have been sensing that your darkness had been getting stronger since we arrived here, but after Ed told me that the seal was fading….” I just shake my head and bring my knees near my chest, wrapping my arms around myself.

I am not sure how long we were sitting there for, just staying silent, before I sense Twilight moving next to me. “I’m sorry.” I look to Twilight in confusion as she says that. “Sorry? What are you sorry for? After everything that has happened to you, I am the one who should be apologizing.”

“No. Nat I am sorry for not being there. I know that Ed said you need to be strong for me and Sora, but as your marefriend, I should have been there for you too. I should have seen how you were struggling without Sora as your rock of stability and I should have been more considerate of your emotions. Instead, all I thought about was controlling my new arm and studying all I can in this world.” She looked to her new arm before giving a sad smile. “I’m a pretty terrible marefriend.”

“No! Twilight you're a great pony and an even better marefriend. I was just being stupid and keeping all this a secret.” I say, grabbing her shoulders and turning her to face me. I see some tears in her eyes, and I can feel my own falling down my face. After a second, Twilight begins to chuckle sadly.

“Guess we both are to blame for this mess. I should have been more considerate and willing to listen, and you should have been willing to talk.” She says to me, placing her right hand on my cheek. “Yeah. I guess we are pretty dysfunctional. But considering everything that has happened to us over the past week, it isn’t all that surprising.” I nuzzle into her hand as I say this. The two of us begin to laugh a little at our absurdity. After calming down, I look to the seal in her hand.

“Even though it is sealed, the dark magic in you is yours to do with what you wish. Use that seal, and it will be unlocked. I am not sure what will happen when it is, but I will help you however I can.” I tell her with certainty, holding her left hand. She nods and brings the seal up to her face, lighter her horn to sense the seal. After a second, she sighs and places the seal into her pocket.

“I think it would be best I use the seal when at least one of the princesses or Ed are nearby. Just in case.” She says, standing back up. I nod and stand as well, wiping some grass and leaves off my dress. Twilight turns to walk back through the forest, before an evil thought enters my mind. I smirk to myself before knocking Twilight’s hooves out from under her with a Vector. Before she can hit the ground I catch her in my arms and hold her bridle style, Twilight’s coat turning from lavender to red.

“Nat, What are you doing?!” She shouts in embarrassment. I just chuckle and lift us with my Vectors, off the ground and over the canopy. “Hold on tight.” I say with a grin, beginning to walk over the forest with Twilight in my arms. I can feel her start to relax a bit after we get moving over the forest. “Next time, warn me before hand.” She says after a bit. I just giggle a little at her response, Twi lightly bonking my head.

“Where’s the fun in that?” I say with a grin. Twi rolls her eyes, but rests her head on my shoulder, trying to be mindful of her horn. It took less time to leave since we were bypassing all the trees and other obstacles, so we made it back to town in no time. After I placed Twi back down, we headed back to town square where I could still hear the festival going on. I looked around and saw Rainbow with Soaring talking with the trio. I take a deep breath as we pass them, nothing happening to me this time around.

“Hey you two, where’ve you been? You missed some really cool beats from Vinyl,” said RD as we passed. “Oh, we just had a few personal things we had to discuss in private RD,” I said with a smile. “Okay then, but we should really get back to the dance soon,” added the prismatic pegasus. “Why?” asked Soarin. “Ed and Princess Luna are about to sing the last couples’ song for to night.”

“I almost forgot about that. C’mon Dusk. I could use a dance after what we just went over.” I say, taking a hold of my marefriends hand. She nods and follows as we head over to the dance floor. I quickly use my telepathy and find Luna and Ed behind stage.

‘Nat how can we help you this evening?’ thought Luna. ‘Did something happen between you and Dusk’ asked Ed. ‘Sorta. We talked things through, and she has her seal. She says she will only unlock her magic if either of you two or Celestia are near, just in case.’

‘That’s certainly a wise move, Dusk.” Luna spoke with praise. ‘Why don’t we meet up with you two and Polearm and Twilight at the library after we finish our song. I know you and Polearm will be extremely exhausted after tonight. You can all spend the night and come back to Canterlot in the morning using the teleporter.’ said Ed in a happy tone.

‘Sure, that’ll work. I just hope Twi left some of her clothes at the library, since we only have what we’re wearing right now.’ Dusk says. ‘Don’t worry, I had some of the staff bring a change of clothes for you during the first dance.’ Luna says. ‘Well, we’re on. I hope you two enjoy this song. See you at the library.’ said Ed as I cut off the link.

“Hello again everypony. The Candle Festival this year has been an overwhelming success. We have one more treat for you all. Princess Luna and her husband are going to sing one last couples song for all of you. Enjoy,” said Mayor Mare as Luna Stepped to the mic again.

“This is a song that represents the journeys that we must take in our lives as couples. You must know that a relationship is not a mere thing to be squandered but comes with up and down that we must work through together, my little ponies,” explained Luna. “This song is named At the Beginning, enyoy,” said Ed as the music began.

I smile and grab hold of Dusk, holding each other close as we begin to dance together. I glance around and see practically every couple are holding their other close during the dance. I smile and focus on my own partner again. I can see the happiness in Dusk’s eyes as we dance together. During the middle of the song, Dusk gets a little closer and rests her head against mine, both of us with relaxed and happy smiles. I can hear as the song begins to slow and I look to Dusk, both of us having a blush and smile.

“I love you.” We say together.

We spent the rest of Ed and Luna’s song in each other’s embrace. Nat was trying so hard to be there for me and Sora at the same time while still dealing with her own issues. She was so young and so strong. I couldn’t help but admire her, but she didn’t need to bear everything by herself, at least not anymore. There are times when you need to rely on those around you but this was a lesson I too had yet to come terms with. I should’ve confronted Nat earlier today when Ed and Twilight had let me know I had dark magic in me.

The song finished and and we met up with our friends and said our goodnights before heading to the library.

“How was the Candle Festival?” asked Polearm. “It was special. But I don’t think I’ll be going back to Canterlot tonight. I’m way to tired,” said Twilight with a huff. “I agree with you Twilight. I’m headed to the workshop and I’ll head to the barracks from the teleporter in the morning.”said Polearm as her stretched.

“Why don’t you just stay at the library with us? Princess Luna had some of the guards drop of some clothes for the four of us. Plus Luna and Ed said they’d be stopping by after they wrapped up a few things at the festival,” said Dusk with a smile. “I’m sure it would make Twilight happy if you atleast slept in the basement,” added Nat with a smirk causing Twilight to turn red at this thought.

“I’ll stop by to see Sir Edward and the princess, but I’ll only stay the night if it’s okay with Twilight,” said Poleram with a beet red face. “I don’t mind Polearm. There’s a pull out sofa in the basement, but I recommend that Nat and Dusk stay down there as the pullout is a queen size mattress. Spike’s room is empty as he’s staying with Rarity since I’ve been in Canterlot,” Twilight managed to say without a stutter. “Alright then, thank you Twilight.”

As we finish up with hashing out those details Nat and I couldn’t help but turn red as we realized what Twilight had done. We got to the library and saw Ed and Luna out front waiting for us. Twilight unlocked the door and let us all in and we all entered. Spike was definitely doing his job as this place was spotless and organized, even more so than my own library back home. I guess it was the age difference.

The boys went to the basement to change while the girls stayed on the first floor. Once we were all in the more comfortable clothing we all gather in the living room. Except for Ed, who went in the kitchen to fix a pot of tea for everypony. The guy may be a scientist but he really reminded me of Princess Celestia in a lot of ways. His eyes though, whenever I looked into them they reminded me of Nat, but there was more to it than that to. He’s always trying to do the right thing and puts the welfare of those he cares for above himself, even if it means he gets hurt in the process.

I was pulled back to reality when Ed brought the tea tray in and put it on the table with a few snacks on it. That’s when Luna spoke.

“So Dusk I take that Nat has told you of your dark magic by now,” said Luna as she fixed herself a cup of tea. “Yes she did and she gave me the key to undo the seal on it,” I said looking to Nat. “I want you to know that Nat talked to both Tia and I on this matter earlier today and Tia and I spoke earlier on it before Ed and I came here. We came to the same conclusion that you should do what you think is right. Should you choose to unseal your dark magic I have agreed to help teach you how to harness and control it while Nat teaches you the spells that go along with it.”

“You’re really going to become my magic teacher?!” I asked while I jumped up from my seat in excitement. “Yes, Twilight but I’ll tell you the something I’d told Nat earlier today. This is not Equestrian dark magic in origin so I’ll only be able to teach the natures of dark magic and how not to succumb to its corruptions. Thus you will be made the night apprentice while you stay here. It will also give you and Nat access to the dark and arcane section of the library in Canterlot.” explained the Lunar Princess in a serious tone.

“What exactly does that entail for Dusk?” asked Nat taking a sip of her tea with a raised brow. “It means that you and Dusk will have access to vast knowledge collection of every type of dark magic that has ever existed in our Equestria Nat,” Ed said as he put an oddly shaped black key on the table in front of us. “Why are you giving us such freedom on this?” I question.

“Because I want you to take this knowledge back with you and spread it to your Equestria if at all possible Dusk. I want you to become a Dark Archmage if you choose to unseal your power. I know it’s asking a lot of you and you’ve been through so much already but you’re the only pony I feel is worthy to have this knowledge and that is worth of the title Sage of the Night other than Twilight herself,” explain Luna with a smile as she took another sip of her tea and snayach a cookie.

“Nat has told us that you world has almost no knowledge of dark magic so we figured it be best for you to learn all you could while you were here. You’ve completed physical rehab and just a the level of magical rehab. I think your more than ready to start spell casting with your arm Dusk. But this option we’re giving provides the addition of Equestrian dark magic to help you better grasp dark magic in general. But the decision is still your and we won’t force you. I personally have things I still have to do involving Sora’s condition. So most of your time with me will be spent with when your not studying in the mornings after you first arrive here if you accept Luna’s offer,” said Ed with a dead serious look on his face. I looked to Nat and then I took the seal out of my pocket that she’d given me earlier that night then I look back to Nat who is smiling softly back at me.

“It’s your choice Dusk and I’ll be there for you no matter what decision you make” Nat says as she gets up and hugs me. “Dusk I’ve studied under Ed only for a few months but I can tell you that you can trust him and Luna’s choices, and I think you should go for it,” said Twilight as she put her tea cup down. “What I’m trying to say is follow your heart on this, because I’m going to start following mine.”

As Twilight said this she looked over to a certain guard pony that had fallen asleep in the chair he’d been sitting in. She got up and left the room for a minute to come back with a blanket and pillow. Twilight quickly threw the blanket over the sleeping Polearm and then gently place the pillow under his head. She the kissed his cheek.

“Sweet dreams Polearm,” Twilight whisper to the sleeping guardsman. “I’ll leave you guys to your choices for tonight. I’m going up stairs. Have a good night.”

We said good night to Twilight and Nat and I turned back to Ed and Luna who awaited my decision. I look to Nat again, who just nods to me. I take a breath, before a rather obvious problem pops in my head.

“Um, how do I use the seal?” I can see Nat going wide-eyed and facepalming at this. It seemed we were in luck though, as I saw the back of the seal begin to glow, before some odd text became visible. It was written in some odd symbols that I couldn’t recognize, but Nat took a closer look, before beginning to laugh.

“Seriously sis?!” She says while laughing. She calms down after a bit, seeing our confused looks. “Lex left the instruction on the back, but she wrote them in Wingdings! Thank gods I have a decoder on my phone.” Nat quickly digs into her purse and takes out her ‘phone’ as she calls it, and then goes through a few pages. I can see her grab a sheet of paper with a Vector, along with a quill before taking the sheet and beginning to translate.

“‘To unlock the sealed magic, place the seal around right eye and focus your inherent magic into it. After a second the seal will merge with your magic before finding and unlocking the darkness.’ Damn Lex, you really wanted this to be dramatic didn't you.” Nat says. I look to the seal again and nod, placing the sheet over my eye. I can feel Nat taking the sheet and holding it in place, so I focus on the magic I have used since I was a filly, focusing it into the sheet on my eye.

It began to feel warm, almost like somepony placed a warm towel on my eye. I can hear what sounds like the hissing of steam. I allow my magic to flow into the seal, even as I feel it getting hotter and let the seal merge into my magic. I grit my teeth at the heat and try to ignore the probing sensation its forcing upon me. I then feel like somepony placed a hot towel on the center of my chest, where my magic core is, and it's getting hotter. I just bear with it for about a minute before the heat begins to lower, and I feel like I just left a sauna.

I open my eyes, panting, as the heat begins to die down on my face and my chest. I look to the others after I get my breath and see them looking with wide eyes at me. “What?” Rather than say anything, I see Nat bringing over one of Twi’s hand mirror and pointing to it. I raise a brow and look to the mirror, and gasp at my reflection. The seal, the odd red symbols, are now on my face, just around my eye like a tattoo. I gently guide my hand along the symbol, feeling that it merged with my fur.

“Woah. I guess I got a tattoo. Heh, hopefully mom and dad don’t freak out too much.” I mumble to myself. I then look to the sheet that held the seal on the floor, and see more symbols on the front of the sheet now. I raise a brow before looking at the translation sheet Nat made. “‘To hide the seal, focus your magic and image how you looked beforehand.’” I raise a brow before lighting my horn and imagining how I looked before this. I can hear the spell activate before looking at my reflection again. Now the symbol is the same color as my fur, the outline only noticeable if you are close enough.

“Twi?” I raise my head and look to the others, Nat looking at me with concern. “How do you feel?” I feel over myself, finding myself to be physically fine, before focusing inward and sensing my magic. “Stronger.” I say after feeling my core. “I can feel the seal is released, and that I am magically stronger, but that’s it. Nothing really different.”

“That’s very good. It means you a 100% compatible with your darkness with no chance of corruption at this time. Only time will tell if you will be corrupted though. Remember Twilight that even those with an affinity for something can still become corrupted by it,” said Luna with a proud smile. “Now that your seal has been undone what do you say to becoming my apprentice while your here?”

I look to Nat and smile as she nods with her own smile. “I say that you just gained two students, since I know Nat is going to want to learn too.”

“Excellent girls, simply excellent!” Luna said as she pulled us into a hug with her magic. “I’ll start your studies right after breakfast tomorrow once you both arrive. Know you Twilight you’ll have the whole first bookcase read in under an hour. Nat there is a whole section of black wind magic if your interested.” I see Nat smile wide, and figure she wants to better control her Dread Spiral spell.

“Thank you princess. This will be a blast.” She says. I nod in agreement before a large yawn breaks through my smile.

“It looks as if my sleeping tea is starting to take its effect on you two. If that’s the case Luna and I will be heading back to the castle for tonight and we’ll be seeing you to a little after sun rise tomorrow. One more thing before we go though,” Ed said as he took what looked like a black gem with a purple outline from his pocket. “This is a Dark Sage Stone Twi. It’ll absorb and seal the excess dark magic that’ll be coming from your body while your training with Luna. Eventually you won’t need but you should carry it with you fo the time being. Nat how’s Sora and the Soul Stone flow?”

I look to her and see her close her eyes, before they shoot open and she blushes brightly. “S-she’s doing fine. Unfortunately she has decided to imagine how my future with Twi will be like in….very detailed format.” I blush as well as I can’t even imagine what Sora could be imagining.

“HAHAHAHA! That’s great but listen to me Sora. I promise I’ll get you out of this miss and into your own body no matter what it takes. Just hang in there a little while longer and keep teasing your big sis for me.” Ed said with a serious smirk, Nat responding by flipping him off. “Alright Luna, let’s get back home. I got a few things I have to get done before bed and you still have night court for a while too.”

“Agreed. I’ll see you two tomorrow my students,” said Luna with a light chuckle as the couple got up and left the library for home. I look to Nat who is still blushing before she sighs and puts the cups and plates into the sink and heading to the basement, with me close behind her after I lock the door and windows. I see as Nat pulls out the bed for us and I can’t help but blush again at both Twilight’s trick and whatever Sora was imagining.

“You know, I am too tired to even care about the implications of us sharing a bed.” Nat mumbles before getting the pillows and blanket for us and all but falling onto the bed. I sigh and lay onto my side, my blush refusing to leave my muzzle. ‘At least I am not in bed with a stallion.’ I think to myself, remembering all the warnings Shining and dad gave me over the years.

I try to get comfy, but I end up laying on my right side, facing Nat, who is on her left. The both of us are all but stuck staring at each other in their dark of the room. After a second though, I hear Nat sigh and feel her getting closer. I can feel my heart beating faster as I can barely feel the heat from her body next to mine. I take a breath before going the rest of the way, wrapping my arms around her as she does the same.

I can feel Nat’s fast heartbeat as well, but it begins to slow as she rests her head on the pillow next to me. She then begins to giggle a little, confusing me. “What’s funny?” I ask quietly. “You do realize your wrapping your tail around my leg right?” I go wide-eyed as I realize this, my tail is wrapped around her left leg. Before I can try to pull away, it feels like another pair of arms wrap around me, Nat wrapping me up in her Vectors. “There. Now we’re even.”

I giggle a little as well as I look to her outline in the dark. I can barely make out her own smile as I get closer, Nat doing the same before we lock our lips again. Even though we have done it more often, it still doesn’t get old. We break apart after a minute, both of us slightly out of breath.

“I love you Twilight.” Nat whispers, nuzzling my cheek. “I love you too Natali.” With that, both of us rest our heads on the pillows beneath us, letting the little light from the moon lull us into sleep.