It begins with a book sitting on the grass, a brown cover with various symbols along the corners. A symbol of a golden unicorn with green eyes is perched along the center. It is here the book opens itself to a single page containing four familiar words. And it is here, where it all began…

Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria…

The scene shifts to the magical land of Equestria itself, as the clouds roll to the side revealing it’s beautiful landscape. A magnificent castle sat perched along the mountains, as a waterfall fell to the surface below. Overlooking this castle was a city perched along a set of clouds, a rainbow streaming to several sides. Below these structures, there was a tiny village with several streams of river flowing across. Equestria, a wondrous world inhabited by the dominant species of this awe-inspiring land: The ponies. Speaking of which…

There were two regal sisters who ruled together and created harmony for all the land.

The two figures in questions were unlike any equine like creatures any creature had ever seen. While they resembled the size of horses, they had feather wing appendages sticking from their backs and spiral horns protruding from their foreheads. Whereas the creature on the left had a white coat with a pink mane, tail, and wings, the equine on the opposite end of the cloud had a dark bluish coat with light blue wings, tail, and mane. They were known… As the alicorns, the most powerful race in all of Ponykind and the sole rulers and protectors of this world.

To do this, the eldest used her unicorn powers to raise the sun at dawn; the younger brought out the moon to begin the night. Thus, the two sisters maintained balance for their kingdom and their subjects, all the different types of ponies.

A display of their powers is shown, the elder pony using her magic to raise the sun to single the start of a brand new day, helping the crops to grow, and provide warmth during the summer. And every night, the youngest would lift the moon to signal the end of the day, even to help the oceans rise on occasion. Though different in terms of how they used their magic, these two ponies, sisters, represented the yin-and-yang of this land. For every day, there must always be night just as after every night there comes a moment to pave way to the dawn. And it’s been like that for generations to come… But this cycle would not last…

But as time went on, the younger sister became resentful. The ponies relished and played in the day her elder sister brought but shunned and slept through her beautiful night.

Indeed, as the younger sister looked down upon her subjects, she noticed the difference that day and night brought upon her subjects. Every pony seemed busy during the day, harvesting their crops, managing their daily business, or simply playing together out on the fields. But when the night came, the moon in full view and the stars illuminating the night sky like a picture on a dark canvas, they would just lie there in either their homes or outside sleeping away. Seeing this happen for a lengthy period of time, it not only made the young sister very sad… It infuriated her.

One fateful day, the younger unicorn refused to lower the moon to make way for the dawn.

On that day, while the land was still dark and the subjects were afraid that they’d never see the light of day, a confrontation took place between the two sisters, the two rulers they looked up to for guidance and leadership. The eldest tried to employ her sister to reconsider her actions, but as it appears… It was already too late. For it seemed that the younger sister had lost faith in her subjects and the respect towards her elder sibling. But what the elder sister did not know was that it only got worse…

The elder sister tried to reason with her, but the bitterness in the young one’s heart had transformed her into a wicked mare of darkness: Nightmare Moon.

Through magical enchantment and terrible smoke, a terrible transformation took place. The young sister’s eyes turned demon-like, a chest plate and helmet appeared on her body, and her mane shifted into an everflowing display. The once proud younger ruler would become an infamous creature of the night, the stuff of nightmares for all the ponies during that period in time.

She vowed that she would shroud the land in eternal night.

Seeing all her subjects helpless and afraid, fearing what this terrible power would do to Equestria should this continue, the elder sister had only one choice… One that she would come to regret for the rest of her life.

Reluctantly, the elder sister harnessed the most powerful magic known to Ponydom: the Elements of Harmony.

Yes, the Elements of Harmony. Six of the most powerful gemstones in six shades of color: Red, orange, green, blue, pink, and violet. Hidden deep within the castle, they laid to rest and were only to be called upon in the event of an emergency. In which case, the elder sister needed these crystals, these very elements, to combat her own sister and save Equestria.

Using the magic of the Elements of Harmony, she defeated her younger sister, and banished her permanently in the moon.

And so, it happened: Wearing a tiara upon her brow, one of the elements embedded in the center, she used the combined power of the elements themselves to overcome the creature known as Nightmare Moon, the pony formerly who sister. After a great conjuring of magic, all that remained of Nightmare Moon was her face implanted upon the surface of the moon, a shining symbol of her defeat.

Ever since that faithful day, the elder sister now assumed a throne just for herself. Using her power to raise both the sun and the moon, all by herself, each day passing turning to weeks, weeks turning to months, and months turning to years… And eventually, generations.

The elder sister took on responsibility for both sun and moon and harmony has been maintained in Equestria for generations since.

<>

As the page rests on where the story ends, a single figure had been reading the contents of that very book. A unicorn laying on her stomach along the grass, near a crystal clear lake in the Canterlot Castle gardens. Her moderate violet eyes skim the pages, her dark sapphire blue mane with moderate purple and brilliant raspberry streaks hung over her pale, light grayish mulberry coat. Her most notable feature is a cutie mark of a sparkling purple star surrounded by tiny white stars, five of them, along her flanks.

For some time, Twilight had gone over the ancient tome she found in the library, thinking to herself about what she just read.

“Hmm… Elements of Harmony. I know I’ve heard of those before… But where?”

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y_Ps4ETwo0

Meanwhile, a gentle breeze flowed through his mane, as a unicorn stallion sat along the courtyards of Canterlot Castle. His name is Storm Shield, who kept his eyes closed tightly so his mind could deeply focus on his latest spell. Six giant boulders were entrapped in his magical aura, suspended perfectly still in mid-air. It had been almost half an hour since he had been like this, his goal overall was to hold them completely still for as long as his magic could hold them. For he knew, it takes one single lapse in concentration, just one, and the entire spell would…

“Hey Storm!”

Storm’s green eyes instantly snapped open, as the boulders fell back to the ground with a thunderous crash.

… Fail.

Storm groaned in dissatisfaction, as he slowly turned his head to see none other than his old classmate, Twilight Sparkle, standing next to him.

“Oh, come on, Twi,” Storm groaned. “Did you not notice I was in the middle of a spell?”

“Sorry Storm, but we’ve got something big to work on,” Twilight said, urgently.

“… Now?”

“Now.”

Storm rolled his eyes over his best friend’s words… Well, ‘best friend’ was putting it lightly. When it comes to Twilight, it’s only when something urgent comes up does she require his immediate attention. It didn’t matter how big or small the task was, she wouldn’t let it go until the matter is dealt with. Plus, she didn’t really have a ton of ‘friends’ in Canterlot, not even when they went to school together, but she usually called on him because the tan coated unicorn with the red-and-black striped mane wouldn’t say ‘no’.

Storm begrudgingly got on his hooves, following the lavender mare off to Celestia only knows what. Despite whatever the case might be, a small smile formed on Storm’s face when Twilight wasn’t looking. Maybe it was just by chance, but for Twilight to call on him and not any other pony she knows for a favor… He kind of felt there must’ve been something special about him she noticed, if it wasn’t his cutie mark of a shield with a star, with two swords crossed. Besides, it’s not often they hang out, so Storm wanted to make the best of this.

As they stroll down the path, they soon found themselves blocked by the only other friends they had in Canterlot: Minuette, Lemon Heart, and Twinkleshine.

“There you are, Twilight!” Twinkleshine said. “Moon Dancer is having a little get-together in the west castle courtyard. You wanna come?”

“Is it today?” Storm Shield asked, smiling. “I almost forgot! Don’t worry, we’ll be there for sure.”

“Oh sorry, girls,” Twilight replied gently. “I’ve got a lot of studying to catch on. Plus, Storm and I are busy today… All day.”

Storm turned to his friend with a glare, but again ‘friend’ was probably not the best choice. Every time some pony would ask to hang out or do something fun, like with the girls, Twilight always shot them down. She always preferred studying over bonding with friends any day.

The only other pony she seemed to spend any time with is Storm. But even then, they never really talked or had ice cream, she’d have her face buried in a book while Storm was mostly around to jot down notes. Before Storm could say anything, Twilight zipped past the girls and galloped down the path as all four ponies stared after her.

“Twilight!” Storm called out, turning to the stunned girls sheepishly. “Um… Could you excuse me please? I’ll be right back.”

The girls just stood there as Storm dashed after Twilight Sparkle, barely catching up. But clearly, the three friends looked indignant as they watched both unicorns disappear.

“Does that pony do anything except study?” Twinkleshine remarked, with a sigh. “I think she’s more interested in books than friends.”

“How does Storm put up with her?” Lemon Heart added.

The two other unicorns just shrug silently.

<>

Far along the courtyard, Twilight busily dashed about the grounds at high speed, with Storm following close behind. They just crossed a bridge when Lyra Heartstrings waved to Twilight, but the latter zipped by without noticing. Storm skidded to a stop to greet Lyra.

“Hey Lyra,” Storm said, quickly. “Sorry, can’t talk. Need to stop Twilight from skipping another party; can you tell the others we’re going to be late? Great, see ya!”

Storm took off at high speed once more, nearly blowing Lyra and the pony beside her away with a huge gust of wind, disappearing into the distance. It wasn’t long before he finally caught up to Twilight, running beside the purple pony and not exactly happy.

“Twilight Sparkle, we need to…”

“I know I’ve heard the Elements of Harmony,” She said aloud.

Storm rolled his eyes, as they continue to run back towards a tall, golden tower representing both her home and her research lab. But Storm, quite frankly, was losing patience with the mare.

“Do you ever listen to me?!” He bellowed.

Sadly, his words fell on deaf ears the moment they arrived at the entrance. Since Twilight was so determined to uncover what she searched for, she didn’t know until too late that a tiny reptilian creature was making his way out of the tower with a package in his claws. She bashed him out of the way the instant she opened the front door.

“Ow!” Spike groaned.

Storm had rushed past Twilight and noticed the figure rubbing his head from the pain. It was a tiny little dragon with Moderate pistachio eyes, moderate harlequin spikes, light mulberry scales with a light spring budish gray underbelly and light lime green ear fronds. This was Spike, Twilight Sparkle’s assistant… Correction, her number one assistant. Nonetheless, Storm helped him to his feet.

“You alright, little buddy?” Storm asked, concerned.

“Yeah, I’m good,” Spike answered.

“Spike! Spi-ike!” Twilight called. “Spike?”

She climbed up the steps to the research department of her home, not realizing she almost ran over her number one assistant, who only groaned in response.

“Down here! Thanks for asking!” Storm called out, in frustration.

“There you are!” Twilight called out. “Quick, find me that old copy of Predictions and Prophecies.”

It was then Twilight eventually noticed, while Storm and Spike climbed the stairs, that a bashed package was stuck to the end of Spike’s tail.

“What’s that for?” She asked.

“It was a gift for Moon Dancer, but…”

Spike yelped as the gift was set aside, as Storm looked down.

“Oh, how cute… You bought her a teddy bear.”

“Well, giving it away mostly… Considering I’ve grown out of it.”

“Oh boys, you know we don’t have time for that sort of thing,” Twilight frowned.

“When exactly do we ever have time for anything?” Storm asked. “You’ve been cooped up in this library since last week; you work too much.”

“Exactly, we’re on a break!” Spike added.

Twilight just ignored the two, as she used her magic, a pale, light grayish orchid aura, summoning a number of books before her, quickly looking them over one by one.

“No, no, no… No, no, no!”

Twilight grunted in frustration, seeing none of these titles showed the information she needed. Storm rolled his eyes, sighing while shaking his head.

“Spike!”

Spike just sighed, as he effortlessly heads toward another tall ladder, scanning another bookshelf before grabbing the book with ease.

“It’s over here!” Spike called out, the book in his arms.

Just then, the book and the dragon were pulled towards Twilight. Storm noticed Spike quickly plummeting towards the floor and rushed forward catching Spike on his back before he hit the floor.

“Ah! Elements, Elements…” Twilight said aloud, searching the pages.

“Do you not even care that poor Spike almost face-planted on the ground?” Storm asked, in disbelief.

Once again, Twilight refused to acknowledge his question. She skimmed over the contents of the book, in deep concentration.

“E… E… E… Aha! Elements of Harmony, see: Mare in the Moon?”

Spike and Storm just sighed. Not only was their day-off ruined, now they were left cleaning up Twilight’s mess… Again. As a matter of fact, this wasn’t the first time she left the two boys on cleaning duty, specifically putting the books back in their proper place. The glares on their faces showed just how annoyed they were about it.

“Mare in the Moon?” Spike pondered.

“What does that old ponies’ tale have to do with anything?” Storm asked.

“Mare… Mare… Aha!” Twilight exclaimed, finding what she was looking for.

“The Mare in the Moon, myth from olden pony times. A powerful pony who wanted to rule Equestria, defeated by the Elements of Harmony and imprisoned in the moon. Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about nighttime eternal!”

“Spike, Storm! Do you know what this means?” Twilight asked.

Of course, Spike was fighting not to lose balance on Storm’s back as the two tried to balance themselves on a dangerously wobbling ladder. Storm tried to keep the ladder steady, but the number of books and Spike’s own wobbling made the task very difficult.

“No… Whoa! OW!”

Spike tumbled once more, but this time Twilight caught him with ease. Storm just looked from atop the ladder, relieved that Spike was alright but turned towards Twilight rather glumly.

“We’re not going to Moon Dancer’s party, are we?” He asked, in a bored tone.

“Take a note please, to the Princess,” Twilight asked Spike.

“Okie-dokie!” Spike said.

He grabbed a quill and some paper, hopping off Twilight’s back, and got ready to write. Suffice to say, Spike had gotten good at writing as fast as Twilight could speak. Storm could do the same, but his penmanship was rather… Sub-par.

“My dearest teacher,” Twilight began, pacing about the room. “My continuing studies of pony magic have led me to discover that we are on the precipice of disaster!”

“Hold on,” Spike interrupts.

While Spike was a fast writer, sometimes Twilight had a tendency of using words far too… Complex for his caliber.

“Preci… Preci…”

“Threshold,” Twilight proposed instead.

“Threh…”

“Storm, are you going to help him out?” Twilight asked, annoyed.

“You could say please once in a while,” Storm points out.

Of course, Storm was good at multiple tasks, but if he hadn’t acknowledged by now, he wasn’t good at ‘everything’…

“Uh brink?” Twilight proposed.

Spike was still struggling until Twilight grunted impatiently.

“Ugh, that something really bad is about to happen!”

That was more than enough for Spike, as he continued writing along. As Storm shook his head, he could’ve sworn he saw the image of a malicious looking mare on the hourglass in the room, completely unnoticed by Twilight Sparkle. He rubbed his eyes while she talked, but the image just disappeared. Perhaps it was a trickle of light or perhaps… Something else.

“For you see, the mythical ‘Mare in the Moon’ is in fact ‘Nightmare Moon’, and she’s about to return to Equestria, and bring with her eternal night! Something must be done to make sure that this terrible prophecy does not come true. I await your quick response. Your faithful student…”

“Ahem,” Storm coughed.

While Twilight did most of the work on this particular research project, she always forgets to credit Storm Shield for everything else they’d do together. He could only forego being left out so many times and this was it.

“Fine… Faithful students, Twilight Sparkle and Storm Shield,” Twilight added, with an eyeroll, while staring out her large glass window wall.

“Twilight Sparkle and Storm,” Spike replied slowly. “Got it!”

“Great! Send it!” Twilight replied excitedly.

“Now?”

“Of course!”

Spike was about to send it when he realized something important.

“Uh, I dunno, Twilight,” Spike replied, holding the letter. “Princess Celestia’s a little busy getting ready for the Summer Sun Celebration. And it’s like, the day after tomorrow.”

“That’s just it, Spike,” Twilight pointed out, in his face. “The day after tomorrow is the thousandth year of the Summer Sun Celebration! It’s imperative that the Princess is told right away!”

“Impera… Impera…”

“Important!” Twilight bellowed.

“Whoa!” Spike exclaimed.

The little dragon tumbled backwards toward a bookshelf. Luckily, Storm caught the little guy in a magic bubble before the impact. Spike sighed in relief, turning toward Storm.

“Thanks man.”

Storm smiled with a nod, before turning back to Twilight and regained his frown.

“You really need to take it easy, Twilight,” Storm suggests. “Let’s just calm down, think this over for a sec…”

“NOW!”

“Okay, okay!” Spike retorted.

Taking a deep breath, Spike blew a green flame over the letter as it magically disappeared into the sky.

“There, it’s on its way. But I wouldn’t hold your breath…”

“Oh, I’m not worried, Spike,” Twilight replied, confidently. “The Princess trusts me completely. In all my years she’s been my… Er, Storm and I’s… mentor, she’s never once doubted me.”

“You know Twi, there’s more to life than studying all the time,” Storm points out. “Take me for example! I hardly ever studied when it comes to magic and I turned out just fine.”

“True, but you are good at different things,” Spike said.

“Exactly! The little guy knows what I’m talking about.”

BELCH!

All of a sudden, Spike let out a loud belch and another letter magically appeared before them.

“See?” Twilight replied with a smile. “I knew she would want to take immediate action.”

“I knew she would take immediate action,” Storm mocked, silently. “Ooh boy…”

While the two ponies bickered behind each other’s flanks, Spike opens the letter and cleared his throat.

“My dearest, most faithful students, Twilight and Storm,” Spike read, mimicking a regal tone. “You know that I value your diligence and that I trust you completely…”

“Mm-hm!” Twilight nodded smugly, as Storm rolled his eyes beside her.

“… but you simply must stop reading those dusty old books!” Spike finished.

Twilight gasped, as Storm chuckled to himself.

“Called it!” He said, proudly.

<>

Soon enough, the two ponies and Spike were on a flying chariot pulled by two strong royal Pegasus pony guards. The two guards were assigned to carry them towards their mission above the clouds. Storm clearly enjoyed the ride, while Twilight kept pouting while leaning over the edge of the chariot. Along the way, Spike continued to read the letter Celestia sent.

“My dear Twilight, there is more to a young pony’s life than studying, so I’m sending you and Storm to supervise the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration in this year’s location: Ponyville. And, I have an even more essential task for you to complete… Make some friends!”

Twilight sighed to herself, not looking forward to the mission at all. Specifically, the second half. Storm, on the other hoof, was much more enthusiastic.

“Well, under the circumstances,” Storm spoke to Twilight. “I always said we needed to get out of Canterlot. I could use a nice change of scenery myself.”

“True,” Spike added. “Look on the bright side, Twilight. The Princess arranged for you to stay in a library. Doesn’t that make you happy?”

“Yes, yes it does,” Twilight said, now smiling. “You know why? Because I’m right! I’ll check on the preparations as fast as I can, then get to the library to find some proof of Nightmare Moon’s return.”

“Then… When will you make friends, like the Princess said?” Spike asked.

“Yeah Twi,” Storm added. “Don’t get me wrong; I’ll help anyway I can. You’re not the only one whose sensing trouble. But the rest of us, maybe we’d like some time to actually make some friends… For once!”

“She said to check on the preparations,” Twilight retorted. “I’m her student, and I’ll do my royal duty, but the fate of Equestria does not rest on me, or us, making friends.”

As they talked, the chariot descended into what appears to be an open street right in the middle of the town called ‘Ponyville’.

“Yeah? Well, I’m her student too you know?” Storm argued. “Least I’m willing to put down the books and make an effort at this friendship gig.”

Storm didn’t argue any further when he heard the two royal guards give a horse-like whinny.

“Thank you, sirs,” Twilight replied.

“Thanks for the smooth ride fellas,” Storm added, taking out a bag of bits. “Here’s some bits for the road back; buy yourself something nice.

The two stallions huffed in appreciation, as the two ponies and little dragon scanned about the town. Just then, a particularly pink pony with cotton candy style mane and tail, with balloons for a cutie mark on her flanks, approached them.

“Maybe the ponies in Ponyville have interesting things to talk about,” Spike suggested. “Come on, Twilight, just try!”

“Sure, go ahead!” Storm added. “Some pony came to greet us; it be rude if we didn’t say hello.”

Twilight noticed the pink pony standing in front of her, trying her best to smile.

“Um… Hello?” She said, slowly.

“The name’s Storm, Storm Shield,” Storm introduced himself. “And you are?”

GASP!

The pink pony gasped in utter surprise, before zipping away at top speed. If Twilight and Storm hadn’t ducked, she’d have collided with their heads, and took them clean off.

“Well, that was interesting all right,” Twilight said, unamused.

“Random too,” Storm added, nodding.

<>

Eventually, the motley little group walked through an entire crop of Apple trees before eventually winding upon a large farm. Spike proceeds to take out the long checklist and began reading it off.

“Summer Sun Celebration official overseer’s checklist,” Spike read aloud. “Number One – Banquet Preparations: Sweet Apple Acres.”

“YEEHAW!”

The group turns noticing an orange pony, with a blonde mane and tail tied into ponytails. She also had a brown Stetson hat on her head and a cutie mark of three apples on her flanks. The pony proceeds to knock apples from a tree, by bucking the tree with her hind legs with incredible strength.

“Whoa!” Storm exclaimed, clearly impressed.

“Let’s get this over with,” Twilight sighed.

They made their way towards the orange pony, who was admiring her work, all the apples she bucked neatly stacked in barrels.

“Good afternoon. My name is Twilight Sparkle—”

Just then, Twilight was caught off-guard as the orange pony began to roughly shake her hoof.

“Well, howdy-doo, Miss Twilight,” The orange pony greets, with a thick country accent. “A pleasure makin’ your acquaintance. I’m Applejack. We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like makin’ new friends!”

“Pleased to meet you, Applejack,” Storm added, trying to introduce himself. “The name’s Storm Shield.”

“Friends?” Twilight replied. “Actually, I… Er… We…”

“So, what can I do you two for?” Applejack asked.

Poor Twilight’s hoof still shook about, so Storm had to grab it with his magic to make her stop. Spike just snickered until Twilight glared at him, before clearing her throat.

“Well, we are in fact here to supervise preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration,” Twilight explained.

“And, from what we understand, you’re in charge of the food?” Storm finished.

“We sure as sugar are!” Applejack said, proudly. “Would you care to sample some?”

“Well, I am a little hungry,” Storm smiled.

“As long as it doesn’t take too long,” Twilight added.

Storm turned to Twilight, glaring at her. But before either could say anything, they heard a triangle ring.

“Soup’s on, every pony!” Applejack called out.

“Soup?” Storm asked.

Suddenly, they heard a loud thumping as Storm, Twilight, and Spike were whisked away by a huge mass of ponies and brought before a round table with a green checked colored cloth. All three felt rather frazzled, until Applejack sat nearby.

“Now, why don’t I introduce y’all to the Apple Family?” Applejack proposed.

“Thanks, but we really need to hurry—” Twilight began.

“This here is Apple Fritter—” Applejack began

She proceeds to introduce each family member, who each brought an apple treat to the table.

“—Apple Bumpkin, Red Gala, Red Delicous, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp..."

Applejack took a deep breath to regain some air.

“… Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom, and Granny Smith.”

On the last name, the trio turns to an elderly pony sleeping on a rocking chair. She had a light gray mane and a light lime green coat. She wore an orange scarf with white lacing around the edges with red apples for the design. On her flank is a cutie mark resembling a pie. This was Granny Smith, who unbeknownst to Twilight and her two companions is the patriarch of the Apple Family… And more.

“Up’n’attem, Granny Smith, we got guests!” Applejack called out.

The elderly pony woke from her slumber with a loud snort.

“Wha…? Soup’s on?” She retorted. “I’m up, and here I come, ah’m comin’…”

As Granny Smith slowly joins the family, her ankles cracking with each step, Applejack turns over to the family as they surround the three newcomers. It was then Storm noticed a green apple shoved into Twilight’s mouth, making him chuckle a bit.

“Why, I’d say you’re already part of the family,” Applejack declared.

Storm and Spike both smiled widely and happily, even began to speak to several of the Apple Family. Twilight, meanwhile, spat the now chewed apple from her mouth and gave a nervous laugh.

“Okay, well,” She replied slowly. “I can see the food situation has been handled. So, we’ll be on our way…”

Twilight had just turned to leave when a small yellow filly with a red mane and big pink bow walk shyly up to her. Storm remembered her name being Apple Bloom.

“Aren’t you gonna say for brunch?” Apple Bloom asked quietly.

She gave Twilight and Storm the cutest little puppy dog eyes any pony had ever seen.

“Aw… How can we say no to that face?” Storm smirked.

In all honesty, he wasn’t in a big hurry to leave. But Twilight, on the other hoof…

“Sorry,” Twilight said, trying to minimize the damage. “But we have an awful lot to do…”

Every pony gave a long, disappointed sigh, until Storm stepped up and took the lead.

“Now hold up, every pony,” Storm spoke up. “Pay no mind to what she said. Why we’d be honored to share brunch with you all, as a gesture of friendship.”

The last word he growled quietly towards Twilight Sparkle, as he shot her a glare. Twilight glared back, as the two ended up in a standoff for the next few seconds. They kept their gaze locked, waiting for one of them to crack, until Twilight finally blinked and looked away with a huff.

“… Fine,” Twilight conceded.

Storm smirked in victory, while the Apple family cheered and invited their guests to the table to eat.

<>

A couple hours passed before Twilight and the boys finally left. Suffice to say, Spike and Storm felt very satisfied.

“Food’s all taken care of,” Spike said. “Next is the weather.”

“I say all the food was awesome,” Storm replied, happily. “If I didn’t love apples before, I’m starting to now! What do you say, Twi?”

Twilight Sparkle, needless to say, lagged behind the both of them and moaned. Her stomach bulged greatly.

“Ugh…” Twilight groaned. “I ate too much pie…”

“Told you so,” Storm pointed out. “Sampling means taking ‘small’ amounts of everything. Not devouring everything shoved at you. But did you listen? No! Still, you always had the appetite of a horse.”

Twilight just grunted angrily, while Storm smirked for teasing her, as they kept moving. While they bickered, Spike examined a few clouds hanging over the sky.

“Hmm… There’s supposed to be a Pegasus pony named Rainbow Dash clearing the clouds,” Spike pondered.

“Well, she’s not doing a very good job, is she?” Twilight pointed out.

Suddenly, a blue Pegasus pony with a rainbow mane and tail came crashing down on both Storm and Twilight. It should also be noted there was a cloud shooting a rainbow-colored lightning bolt cutie mark along her flanks. The initial impact sent Twilight and Storm flying into a giant patch of mud. They moaned angrily, coated badly in mud. The blue pony just laughed sheepishly.

“Uh… ‘scuse me?” She replied.

As the Pegasus hovered about, Storm and Twilight both gave a death glare while she just laughed.

“Lemme help you,” The blue pony offered.

She grabs a nearby rain cloud and made it downpour with her hooves hopping on the cloud. The rainwater soaked the two ponies, while the blue pony, from above the cloud, laughed sheepishly once more.

“Oops, I guess I over did it,” She remarked.

“Oh, you don’t say,” Storm retorted. “Might as well just throw us in a lake.”

“Um, uh, how about this? My very own patented Rain-Bow Dry!”

She created a large wind tunnel around the two unicorns, drying them both off quickly.

“No, no. Don’t thank me,” The blue pony replied, before facing the two. “You’re quite welcome.”

It was then the Pegasus saw that her trick worked a little too well. While both unicorns were dry, their manes and tails were now frizzy and poofy. Storm resembled a disco pony, while Twilight was in no better condition. The sight was too much, and both the Pegasus and Spike burst out laughing, falling onto their backs. Storm and Twilight just stood and glare.

“Let me guess,” Twilight retorted. “You’re Rainbow Dash.”

The Pegasus, hearing her name, stopped laughing and quickly got up, knocking Spike aside.

“The one and only. Why, you’ve heard of me?”

“I heard you were supposed to be keeping the sky clear,” Twilight remarked with a sigh. “I’m Twilight Sparkle and this here is Storm Shield, and the Princess sent us to check on the weather.”

Suffice to say, Rainbow Dash had made herself comfortable on a cloud above them. She didn’t seem the least bit motivated to actually do the job.

“Yeah, yeah, that’ll be a snap,” Rainbow waved off. “I’ll do it in a jiffy. Just as soon as I’m done practicing.”

“What kind of practice can a pony accomplish lazing about on a cloud?” Storm asked, confused.

“The Wonderbolts!” Rainbow Dash said, excitedly.

She motions toward a nearby poster showing what appears to be a bunch of Pegasus ponies dressed in flight suits, which feature a shade of gold and aquamarine along with a ‘winged bolt’ logo.

“They’re gonna perform at the Celebration tomorrow, and I’m gonna show ‘em my stuff!”

“The… Wonderbolts?” Twilight asked, with a smirk.

“Yep!”

“The most talented flyers in all of Equestria?”

“That’s them!”

“Pfft! Please! They’d never accept a Pegasus who can’t even keep the sky clear for one measly day.”

“Or crash lands into other ponies!” Storm added.

When the two unicorns started talking, Rainbow Dash was very cross over their choice of words.

“Hey, I could clear this sky in ten seconds flat!” Rainbow retorted.

“Prove it!” Twilight and Storm challenged.

The latter pulled out a stopwatch and the moment he pushed the button, Rainbow zoomed high into the sky, bucking off the remaining clouds in a rapid session. Both Storm and Twilight were agape, as Rainbow returned with a whoosh.

“Loop-de-loop around, and wham!” Rainbow Dash said, finishing up. “What’d I say? Ten… Seconds… Flat. I’d never leave Ponyville hanging.”

Twilight, Storm, and Spike stared with their jaws dropped. All that moved was Storm’s eyes, as he turned down at the stopwatch… And when he stopped the clock, it was exactly ten seconds. The blue Pegasus wasn’t exaggerating, she meant it. Speaking of which, she laughed at their initial shock as she flew around them.

“You should see the looks on your faces,” Rainbow laughed. “Ha! You’re a laugh, Twilight Sparkle. You too Storm Shield! I can’t wait to hang out some more.”

By the time Storm Shield shook himself out of shock, Rainbow Dash zoomed away.

“Maybe don’t slam us into the ground next time, and we’re good!” Storm called out.

“Wow, she’s amazing!” Spike said, with a laugh.

“… Yeah, you’re right,” Storm admitted.

It was then Storm turned and noticed Spike playing with Twilight’s still puffy mane. Twilight growled at the fact her mane was still a mess when she felt two eyes watching her. With a roll of her eyes, she turns to Storm.

“What?!”

“You know Twi,” Storm said. “I always find frizzy manes beautiful.”

Twilight sent a heated glare towards her friend, before walking off. Storm, on the other hoof, just smiled.

“I meant what I said,” He replied, softly.

<>

Their next leg of the trip lead the trio into a large building with a round dome. It was apparently supposed to be where the main ceremony would take place later tonight.

“Decorations,” Spike said, in awe. “Beautiful…”

“Yes, the décor is coming along nicely,” Twilight nodded. “This ought’a be quick. I’ll be at the library in no time. Beautiful indeed.”

“Not the décor,” Spike said, clearly dazed. “Her!”

Storm and Twilight turn ahead and before their eyes was a marshmallow-coated unicorn, with a beautiful curled dark purple mane and tail. Along her flank appear to be three blue gemstones on each side. She was apparently deep in thought, shuffling through some ribbons with her magic.

“No, no, no, oh!” She exclaimed. “Goodness no.”

“How are my spines?” Spike asked, worried. “Are they straight?”

“You’re fine, little buddy,” Storm said, patting the dragon’s back.

Twilight just rolled her eyes, before stepping forward.

“Good afternoon—” Twilight tried to address.

However, the other unicorn seemed far too focused to acknowledge the newcomer.

“Just a moment, please!” The Unicorn replied, continuing her work. “I’m in the zone, as it were. Oh yes! Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why, Rarity, you are a talent. Now, um, how can I help up-AAAH! Oh, my stars, darling! Whatever happened to your coiffure?!”

Puzzled, Twilight looked up at her mane. Storm’s eyes were already locked onto hers, after Rarity said that. He had studied Prench back in Canterlot High and that was one word he knew.

“Oh, you mean my mane?” Twilight clarified. “Well, it’s a long story. I’m just here to check on the decorations, and then I’ll be out of your hair!”

“Out of my hair?” Rarity exclaimed. “What about your hair?”

Rarity began pushing Twilight out the building from the flank.

“Wait! Where are we going?!” Twilight called out. “Help!”

Storm just casually walked beside her, while Spike was too mesmerized to be of any help.

“I think she’s taking us to that building there,” Storm pointed out. “Is that a boutique?”

“That would be right dear,” Rarity replied. “My humble abode, I own and operate the place myself.”

It was then Rarity realized something as she pushed Twilight along.

“Oh dear, I’m afraid I didn’t quite catch your name.”

“Storm’s the name, Miss Rarity,” Storm said, bowing. “Storm Shield. But you may call me ‘Storm’.”

“Well, it’s lovely to meet you,” Rarity smiled. “Ah, here we are!”

It wasn’t long before Twilight stood in the center of what was indeed a clothing boutique Storm had visited plenty of boutiques in Canterlot, when the other girls would drag him along for one of their shopping weekends. And of course, being the only guy in the group, guess who carried the bags? But something about this particular boutique carried a certain charm, as Storm looked around. All the while, Rarity shuffled through various outfits for Twilight.

“No, no, uh-uh,” Rarity said to herself. “Too green. Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. Too frilly. Too… Shiny…”

“Considering how bright the sun is,” Storm said. “What good’s a dress if it blinds every pony who looks at you?”

“Storm!” Twilight sneered.

“What? I’m just saying!” Storm replied, innocently. “You hang out with Lemon Heart like I do; you learn a thing or two about fine couture.”

Just then, Twilight was garbed in some form of cyan-colored dress with a large emerald up front, as Rarity proceeds to tie the back straps, roughly pulling them against Twilight’s chest.

“Now go on, my dears,” She continued. “You were telling me where you’re both from.”

Twilight strained to answer, since the dress was a tad tight from all the tugging, but she did her best.

“I’ve… That is we… Were sent… From Canterlot… To—”

“Huh?” Rarity exclaimed.

Rarity suddenly released the straps, sending Twilight tumbling forward.

“Canterlot!? Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication! I have always dreamed of living there! I can’t wait to hear all about it! We are gonna be the best of friends, you and I…”

Rarity held Twilight close, though the latter was uncomfortable. Suddenly, Rarity noticed the broach on the dress.

“Emeralds?! What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies!”

Rarity dashed away, as Twilight used a nearby screen to quickly remove the dress.

“Quick!” Twilight called out. “Before she decides to dye my coat a new color!”

“Spike was too dazed, but somehow used his smitten feelings to hover with his tail, as Twilight scooped him up and dashed away. Storm, meanwhile, was still in deep thought.

“Rubies might actually work with Twilight,” He pondered aloud. “Especially if they are more pinkish like salmon. Personally, I consider myself an amethyst guy… WHOA!!!”

Storm’s thoughts were interrupted as Twilight used her aura to drag him out of the boutique. By that point, all three were outside the shop and continued their way down the path.

“Wasn’t she wonderful?” Spike asked, out of the blue.

Storm turned to Spike and smirked, he could tell the purple dragon had been struck with Cupid’s arrow. He knew that feeling very well.

“Focus Casanova,” Twilight joked, sarcastically. “What’s next on the list?”

Spike quickly recomposed himself, before checking the list.

“Oh, uh, music!” He answered. “It’s the last one!”

It was then they heard a multitude of birds singing. Hiding in a bush, they saw all the birds gathered into a large tree and apparently conducted by a yellow Pegasus with a soft pink mane and tail, complete with butterfly cutie marks on her flanks. During this mesmerizing rehearsal, something caught her attention.

“Oh my,” She said, very softly. “Um, stop please, everyone, umm. Excuse me, sir? I mean no offense, but your rhythm is just a ‘teeny-tiny’ bit off. Now, follow me, please. A-one, a-two, a-one-two-three—”

“Hello!”

Twilight called out at the worst possible time. All the birds were startled and flew away, even the yellow Pegasus gave a frightened yelp before turning around. From the look on her face, Twilight soon realized her mistake.

“Oh my, I’m so sorry,” Twilight apologized. “I didn’t mean to frighten your birds. We’re just here to check up on the music and it’s sounding beautiful.”

The yellow Pegasus said nothing, but turn away shyly, rubbing a hoof upon the ground. Storm couldn’t resist a smile; he was always a sucker for shy girls.

“I’m Twilight Sparkle,” Twilight continued. “And this is Storm Shield.”

“Afternoon,” Storm greeted.

Again, the yellow Pegasus said nothing. She seemed to grow more shy with each passing day.

“And… What’s your name?” Storm asked, trying to be friendly.

“Um… I’m Fluttershy,” The Pegasus replied.

Of course, her voice was so quiet, Storm was surprised even ‘he’ could hear her name. All the same, the name suited her perfectly.

“I’m sorry, what was that?” Twilight asked, unable to hear.

“Um… My name is Fluttershy,” She replied again, more softly.

“Didn’t quite catch that,” Twilight added, feeling awkward.

“She said Fluttershy!” Storm shouted.

Fluttershy just squeaked as the rest of the birds returned to the tree. Storm meant to apologize for the sudden outburst when Twilight interrupted him.

“Well, um, it looks like your birds are back. So, I guess everything’s in order. Keep up the good work.”

Fluttershy only squeaked again. This time, Storm knew it was Twilight who startled her.

“Oookay…” Twilight replied uneasily, turning to Spike and Storm. “Well, that was easy.”

The moment Spike appeared Fluttershy instantly turned around, wide eyed and smiling.

“A baby dragon!” Fluttershy exclaimed, more audibly.

Her sudden outburst made the birds fly away as she raced towards Spike, bucking Twilight out of the way.

“Oh, I’ve never seen a baby dragon before. He’s sooo cute!”

“Well, well, well…!” Spike smiled.

Twilight glared over being pushed, as Storm went over to help her.

“You alright, Twi?” He asked.

“What do you think?” Twilight grumbled.

“Oh my, he talks!” Fluttershy exclaimed again. “I didn’t know dragons could talk. That’s just so incredibly wonderful, I, I just don’t even know what to say!”

By then, Twilight used her magic to scoop Spike onto her back and started walking.

“Well, in that case, we’d better be going,” Twilight said.

The unicorns started walking back to town for the library, when Fluttershy started to follow them.

“Wait, wait! What’s his name?” Fluttershy asked.

“I’m Spike,” Spike replied.

“Hi Spike, I’m Fluttershy. Wow, a talking dragon! And what do dragons talk about?”

“Well, what do you wanna know?”

“Absolutely everything…”

Twilight groaned, as she continued her way towards the library with the rest following close behind.

“Well… I started out as a cute little purple and green egg…” Spike began.

<>

It was sunset, even then Fluttershy and Spike were still in conversation, while Twilight’s mood couldn’t get any more sour. Storm had purposely lagged behind to hear the conversation, even adding his own two bits once in a while. All the while, Fluttershy listened attentively.

“…And that’s the story of my whole entire life!” Spike concluded.

By then, they finally arrived at the front of a grand oak tree that marked the town’s library.

“Well, up until today. Do you wanna hear about today?”

“Oh, yes, please!” Fluttershy replied happily.

Just then, Spike was startled when Twilight did a fast one eighty.

“I’m so sorry, how did we get here so fast?” Twilight said plainly. “This is where I’m staying while in Ponyville and my poor baby dragon needs his sleep.”

“No, I don’t… WHOA!”

Spike was taken aback again, as Twilight sent him flying off her back and onto the ground with a thud.

“Aww, wook at dat,” Twilight said in baby talk. “He’s so sweepy, he can’t even keep his widdle bawance!”

Storm Shield rolled his eyes, while Spike glared. But somehow, Fluttershy actually believed Twilight.

“Poor thing,” She replied, scooping him up. “You simply must get into bed…”

Fluttershy opened the door to tuck him in, but Twilight interrupts and shoves Fluttershy out. Storm just watched this entire scenario in complete shock.

“Yes, yes,” Twilight replied quickly. “We’ll get right on that. Well, g-night!”

Twilight then pulls Storm inside, slamming the door behind them.

“Huh, rude much?” Spike pointed out, with a glare.

“I’ll say,” Storm added.

Even in pitch darkness, Storm’s bitter look could be seen in the dark.

“Sorry guys, but I have to convince the Princess that Nightmare Moon is coming, and we’re running out of time!” Twilight replied.

Once again, Storm groaned and rolled his eyes.

“You’re seriously still hung up on all this, Twi? You’ve already sent your letter to the Princess, who I believe wrote back to tell you to, oh I don’t know… Chill out and make some friends!”

“Right,” Twilight added. “I just need to be alone so I can study without a bunch of crazy ponies trying to make friends all the time. Now, where’s the light?”

Before Storm could say more, the lights turned on and the trio found themselves surrounded by numerous ponies. The place itself was heavily decorated. And they all jumped as a honk went off.

“SURPRISE!!!” The ponies shouted, blowing kazoos.

Twilight just groaned, while Spike and Storm were still in shock.

“SURPRISE!”

Before the trio was the pink pony they just met, before taking off earlier that day.

“Hi, I’m Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Huh-huh-huh?”

“Looks like some pony had her fair share of sugar today…” Storm thought to himself.

“Very surprised,” Twilight said. “Libraries are supposed to be quiet.”

“Well, that’s silly!” Pinkie Pie answered. “What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet? I mean, duh, bo-ring! Y’see, I saw you when you two first got here, remember? You were all “hello” and I was all (GASP), remember? Y’see I’ve never saw you two before and if I’ve never saw you before that meant that you’re both new, ‘cause I know every pony, and I mean every pony in Ponvyille!”

“O-kay…” Storm said, uneasily.

Twilight just groaned, as she approached a table with all the cups and sodas for a quick drink.

“And if you’re new,” Pinkie Pie continued. “That meant you haven’t met anyone yet, and if you haven’t met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don’t have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me so sad, then I had an idea, and that’s why I went (GASP)! I must throw you a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends!”

Storm had a tough time keeping track of what Pinkie Pie said, but soon noticed the five other girls he and Twilight met today. As he went over to converse with them, Twilight seemed to tune them all out and sipped her drink. Suddenly, she lifts her head, turned around, and her cheeks puffed out as her face went deep red.

“Are you all right, sugar cube?” Applejack asked.

Twilight said nothing, as flames erupted from her mane, tail, and her mouth before she rushed off. Once the flames fizzled out, she dashed upstairs without another word.

“Aww, she’s so happy, she’s crying!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed.

Storm rolled his eyes, as Spike examined the soda bottle Twilight drank from.

“Hot sauce,” Spike read on the label. Storm just sighed with a head shake.

“What in Equestria is that doing with the soda?” He asked.

Just then Pinkie Pie dumped a large dollop of it atop a cupcake and gobbled it up. Storm and the others made faces.

“Ooh…!” Pinkie Pie remarked, as she ate it. “What?” It’s good!”

“If… You… Say so…” Storm said, with a face hoof.

Losing his appetite, Storm looks up sadly toward the staircase leading to what was apparently Twilight’s bedroom. Rarity noticed his body language and stood beside him.

“You seem worried about Twilight,” Rarity observed. “Why not go check up on her?”

“Eh… I don’t know what good it will do…” Storm said. “Twilight’s not exactly the most social pony, and I speak from experience.”

“Well, why don’t you tell us more about yourself, sugar cube?” Applejack asked.

“Me? Well, sure! I’m an open book. You can ask me ‘anything’ that pops in your head, while I get to know you girls a bit.”

The girls beckon Storm to join the party as he began to share parts of his part with them. While he had to do his best to make things interesting, seeing the girls intrigued by his story made him feel slightly better. Either way, for the first time in a while, Storm Shield enjoyed himself.

<>

It was well into the night when he and Spike finally decided to visit Twilight. Twilight groaned from all the noise and loud music downstairs, practically burying her head underneath a large pillow as she sat in her bed. Suddenly, the doors burst open as Storm and Spike came in. The little dragon had a nightshade over his head.

“Hey Twilight!” Spike called out. “Pinkie Pie’s starting ‘Pin the Tail on the Pony’! Wanna play?”

“Yeah, come on down and have a little fun,” Storm urged. “I did a killer singing duet with Rarity, tried some awesome candy from this Bon Bon mare, and just won my first dance contest! And all I had to do was perform the limbo by staying exactly one inch from the ground leaning back. The girls had to pin Rainbow Dash down since she kept demanding a rematch. Yeesh… Not like losing’s the end of the world, you know?”

That sounded hypocritical, since Storm hated losing too. But he ignored the feeling. Twilight, on the other hoof, was clearly irritated.

“NO!” Twilight barked. “All the ponies in this town are crazy! Do you know what time it is?!”

“It’s the eve of the Summer Sun Celebrtation,” Spike answered. “Every pony has to stay up, or they’ll miss the Princess raise the sun! You really should lighten up, Twilight. It’s a party!”

“You really should lighten up, Twilight,” Twilight imitated, mockingly. “It is a party!”

Spike just left, while Storm stood on the rails with his hoofs folded, a disappointed look on his face. Storm finally had enough of her attitude today and decided something had to be said.

“Twilight, in all seriousness, you’re really missing out on all the fun,” Storm states. “Celestia did say we were to make friends. I’ve already made five since we’ve been here, and there could be more since every pony here enjoys chatting with me. Spike and I are having a great time, but I really hoped you’d join in. But if you’d rather sit here and pout the whole night, go right ahead. Just don’t ask me to watch.”

Twilight still remained silent, neither saying a word nor turning to him. Storm Shield just sighed, before closing the door, with one last look to her before turning around to join in on the party games. Twilight just stared at the ceiling, hugging her pillow close.

“Ugh, here I thought I’d have time to learn about the Elements of Harmony but, silly me, all this ridiculous friend-making has kept me from it!”

And yet, despite all the frustration, Twilight couldn’t stop remembering the last thing she read.

“Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about everlasting night.”

“I hope the Princess was right…” Twilight said, worried. “I hope it really is just an old pony tale…”

It wasn’t long before Storm walked back into the room, with Spike on his back.

“C’mon, Twilight!” Spike called out. “It’s time to watch the sunrise!”

Twilight looked toward the moon one last time, the silhouette of Nightmare Moon’s face remained on the surface and several stars shined around it, but nothing seemed to change. She crawled off the bed and found Storm Shield waiting for her. While his face remained stern, he still offered her a hoof. Twilight just stares at him before placing her hoof on top. Storm smiles approvingly, before escorting her out the library towards the main building for the ceremony.

The building itself wasn’t particularly large, but somehow it fit every pony who came to see the sunrise, with plenty of room to spare. Twilight was still worried as she stood beside Storm waiting for the ceremony to begin. Just then, Pinkie Pie swooped in from nearby.

“Isn’t this exciting?” She asked, out of the blue. “Are you excited, ‘cause I’m excited, I’ve never been so excited—well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went (GASP) but I mean really, who can top that?”

Twilight just gave Storm a curious, yet annoyed look.

“If you drank five bottles of soda and a bottle of hot sauce, you’d be hyper too,” Storm whispered.

Twilight just rolled her eyes when a cream-colored mare with a whitish mane, tail, a scroll tied in a blue ribbon for a cutie mark, and glasses upon her nose appeared. This was the Mayor of Ponyville known as… Well, ‘Mayor Mare’. Storm had a chance to speak to her during the party, and while she did give him a funny look for some reason, they did share a friendly chat. As soon as Fluttershy’s birds performed their opening number, she took center stage.

“Fillies and gentlecolts,” She announced proudly. “As Mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration.”

All the ponies cheered proudly, stomping their hooves at the start of the upcoming arty. But while she spoke, Twilight looked up and saw the stars approach the moon and the Mare in the Moon’s silhouette disappeared from the moon’s surface. This made her rather nervous, as the Mayor continued on completely blissfully.

“In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, and the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria…”

“Ready?” Fluttershy asked her birds, who simply nods.

“… Princess Celestia!” Mayor Mare announced.

A spotlight appears where the Princess is set to arrive, and Rarity opens the curtains… But she wasn’t there.

“Huh?” Rarity said, shocked.

The rest of the ponies chattered quietly and nervously in the background.

“This can’t be good,” Twilight said.

“Spike, please tell me Celestia’s just handling our warning,” Storm added, hopefully.

“Maybe… She’s running a little late?” Spike asked, nervously.

“Remain calm, every pony,” Mayor Mare replied, keeping the peace. “There must be a reasonable explanation!”

“Ooh, ooh, I love guessing games!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. “Is she hiding?”

Rarity searched the area where Celestia was supposed to be, but all she could say is…

“She’s gone!”

Every pony gasped, the news of Celestia’s disappearance hitting them like a boulder to the chest.

“Ooh, she’s good!” Pinkie Pie remarked.

Just then, she gave a great yelp as every pony gasped once more. Only this time, a dark, cloudy mist entered the hall. They all watched fearfully, as the mist slowly took form, morphing into the shape of a tall, dark alicorn in light blue armor.

“Oh no…” Twilight panicked, quietly.

“Nightmare Moon!” Twilight and Storm said, in unison.

Spike was so shocked, he practically fainted, falling off the seat of Storm’s back. Nightmare Moon laughed menacingly before the ponies surrounding her.

“Oh, my beloved subjects,” She said, boldly. “It’s been so long since I’ve seen your precious little sun-loving faces.”

For the moment, most ponies were afraid to say a word. They did nothing but look at her fearfully. Rainbow Dash, on the other hoof…

“What did you do with our Princess?!” She demanded angrily.

The Pegasus tried to confront Nightmare Moon herself, only for a certain cow pony to hold her back by the tail.

“Whoa there, Nelly…” Applejack muffled.

Nightmare Moon chuckled at the gesture, but then her expression quickly changed.

“Why, am I not royal enough for you?” She asked angrily. “Don’t you know who I am?”

The dread silence and blank expression on every pony’s faces showed they clearly didn’t. Even Storm Shield himself felt uncomfortable know that no pony else, minus Twilight and himself, knew exactly who she was.

“Ooh, ooh, more guessing games!” Pinkie remarked excitedly. “Um, Hokey Smokes! How about… Queen Meanie! No! Black Snooty, Black Snooty…”

Pinkie Pie was quickly shushed, as an apple cupcake was shoved down her throat. Suffice to say, Nightmare Moon was furious. She glared angrily, first to Fluttershy, who couldn’t look her in the eye, and eventually turned to Rarity.

“Does my crown no longer count now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years?” She demanded. “Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?”

“We did.”

Nightmare Moon turned as Storm Shield stepped forward, followed by Twilight Sparkle.

“And I know who you are,” Twilight said. “You’re the Mare in the Moon – Nightmare Moon!”

All the other ponies gasped, knowing that an ancient story they’ve been told as foals and colts was suddenly real. And a once mythical figure now stood before their eyes.

“Well, well, well,” Nightmare Moon said. “Some ponies who remember me. Then you two also know why I’m here.”

“You’re here to… To…” Twilight gulped.

Either she had forgotten, or she was afraid that the next thing she’d say would make it worse for all the town ponies. Either way, she felt a twinge of regret.

“You’re here to snuff out the light forever,” Storm growled. “And bring about eternal darkness…”

Nightmare Moon just chuckled, all that was on her mind was that she had successfully made a triumphant return.

“Remember this day, little ponies,” Nightmare Moon declared. “For it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!”

Nightmare Moon laughed manically, as the thunder clashed alongside her. Every pony, especially Twilight and Storm, could only watch in pure horror. Nightmare Moon had returned and the only pony who can stand to her, the princess they all need the most, had vanished. But even after all of that, even after an age old prophecy had been fulfilled, the worst was still to come.

To be continued…