Pinkie Pie screamed again as she felt the branch rip into her already bruised leg. She could still hear the shouting as she ran with everything she had towards the cave she saw on her way into town. She strained to pick up the pace as the shouting got closer and closer. Every step she took hurt a little more than the previous one. Tears streamed down her face, not just from the pain and soreness in her hooves, but because of the names the citizens called her. For the past three weeks, she’d been traveling around the country following whatever clue or lead she could find. She knew that Discord would stay in Equestria, but she didn’t know where in Equestria he was. Thanks to his summit, word quickly spread about her actions through the reporters who were there when the chaos lord revealed himself. Each pony she met seemed to get more aggressive towards her every time she was forced to interact. Now, after three weeks, there wasn’t a stallion or mare who didn’t know who she was and what she’d done. She’d tried to hide herself as best she could, but eventually she’d be found out and the citizens would do whatever they could to impose mob justice on her. Most of the time she was able to simply run away. Other times, however, she wasn’t so lucky. She sported plenty of bruises on her torso, back and legs where she’d been kicked and stomped after being cornered. The party pony’s current predicament was a perfect example. She’d gone into the town of Appleoosa after finding a burlap cherry sack to cover her cutie mark. She hadn’t talked to more than a shopkeeper when a patron recognized her. Within minutes she was forcibly removed and thrown into the streets. The rest of the town had acted even quicker galloping after her while yelling the most horrible things they could think of. There was no time to dwell on the past, however. She ducked behind a few rocks as she heard the ringleader’s voice cry out.

“THERE! THE TRAITOR MUST’A WENT THAT WAY!” he screamed as he pointed west.

She shut her eyes tight, hugging herself as she heard the stampede of angry ponies gallop past her. Once the noise dissipated, she opened her eyes slowly. Getting to her hooves, she walked quickly towards the cave she remembered, doing her best not to make a sound.

‘Almost there…please, please don’t follow me!’ her mind screamed as she took her last few steps into the dank hole.

Once out of sight, she collapsed, her fatigued form crumpling to the ground, the burlap chafing against her fur. A whimper escaped her lips as she forced her eyes to open, crawling towards the far wall. There was just enough light seeping in from the outside to check on her newly damaged limb. Pulling her hind leg up, she inspected the cut. It wasn’t as deep as she thought, but it still broke the skin, blood dripping from the site, forming a small puddle underneath her. She winced as she gingerly took off the burlap sack she’d been wearing, placing it on the ground in front of her. She started at it for a few moments, using her newly acquired time to regain her strength. Taking in a gulp of air, she stood up with one hoof on the sack, using her mouth to tear a strip from it. Sitting down again, she used the strip to tie off the wound, whimpering as she felt the pressure increase in her leg. Once the knot was secure, she leaned against the wall of her natural shelter, her mind taking her back to what little information she was able to get out of the Appleoosians.

‘Looks like I might be getting closer. He should be around here somewhere,’ she thought as her breathing slowed, returning to a normal rhythm.

After a few minutes of rest, her eyes became heavy as she began to drift off to sleep. The stress of the day was finally catching up with her as her adrenaline dissipated. Just as she closed her eyes, however, a voice startled her. She gasped as her neck turned towards the entrance to the cave. The voice was faint, and she could barely make it out. Soon, another voice joined the conversation. Again, Pinkie Pie strained to make out what the two were saying. She looked back at her leg. It was risky, but she needed to know what was going on out there. If there was a lead to be had, then she needed to expose it. Steading herself, she took a deep breath as the pain slowly seeped back into her hooves. She grit her teeth, blocking it out as best she could as she slowly made her way to the exit. As she poked her head out from behind a rock, she used her left hoof to shield her eyes from the sun. Once the figures came into focus, she gasped. It was him. Discord was standing in front of a member of the Buffalo tribe. She couldn’t make out what they were discussing, but they were not far from her current location. This was her chance. Mustering up all the strength she had left she made a mad dash out of the cave towards the chaos lord. She tried calling out to him, but her breaths were too labored to make a worthwhile sound.

“Discord, Disco-AGH,” she croaked before tripping on a rock and crashing to the ground about twenty feet from him.

She refused to close her eyes, lest she lose sight of him. She was so close. He was right there, right in front of her. This was the closest she’d gotten to him since the day she left Canterlot Castle. She couldn’t let him go. Not now. Using every bit of air she had left, she screamed his name as loud as she could. The shouting accomplished her goal, as he turned around, looking her in the eye. He smiled and winked as he turned back around the buffalo, bowing. After returning the bow, the buffalo ran off, leaving the two alone. He walked towards the party pony, his claws behind his back.

“Well, what do we have here? You seem to be getting pluckier and pluckier as time goes on, Pinkie Pie,” he said.

The earth mare tried to speak, but the pain was too intense. She was tired, sore, out of breath and probably still bleeding. She attempted to turn herself over, but her hooves gave way and she collapsed once more. Tears streamed down her face as she felt a paw pet her mane tenderly.

“Why don’t we get you cleaned up, shall we?” he said snapping his fingers.

Pinkie Pie shut her eyes tight, as the darkness took her.

-

Twilight Sparkle galloped down the hallway as fast as her hooves could take her. The light coming from the infirmary was as bright as a star, illuminating the courtyard for a few moments before dispersing. To say she was worried about the princess was an understatement. She’d taken off without so much as word to Spike, who struggled to keep up. She hadn’t even heard the hoofsteps from behind her as Applejack’s voice rang in her ears.

“Twi, do you have any idea what that was?” she asked as she came up alongside the unicorn.

“I…I don’t know, Applejack. Whatever it was, it was intense. We need to find out if Princess Celestia is alright,” she answered.

The farmer grunted in response as Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash ran up beside her.

“Hey, any idea what just happened?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Not in the least, sugarcube. We’re just hopin’ that Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are okay,” she answered worriedly.

“Girls, we’re here,” Twilight said, slowing her pace to a trot before entering the infirmary.

Her eyes went wide as she stopped short. Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Applejack did the same as they eyed the glowing crystals floating before them.

“The…the elements of harmony! They…they’re back!” Twilight exclaimed walking slowly towards her mentor.

“Yes, Twilight, they have returned,” she said.

“But…but how?” the unicorn inquired.

“Luna and I, we…we talked about the past, Twilight. All the things that bothered us, that were the true stumbling blocks in our relationship were cleared away, for the first time since she returned. I believe that catharsis is what allowed for our love and friendship to return to its state before the nightmare took hold of her,” she explained.

“Yes, Twilight. The love we feel for each other is no longer clouded by ancient arguments and bitterness. We’ve once again embraced each other fully as sisters,” Luna added as she nuzzled her kin gently.

“Well, alright then! Looks like we gotta way to stop Discord!” Applejack shouted.

“It will not be that simple,” Princess Celestia said as she walked towards the window.

“Ah don’t like the sound of that,” Applejack muttered.

“Although we now have the means to defeat Discord, he still has the advantage. His magic is what has tethered Twilight Sparkle to this world. If he is imprisoned again, she will disappear, and I will not allow that. Also, I’ve just awakened from a coma and quite possibly have severe magic withdrawal. It is unknown how much of my magic has returned,” she said.

Everyone started at the floor. Even with the power of the elements returned to their original bearers, it seemed as though they were back at square one. Silence reined for the next few minutes as everyone wracked their brains with something that could help. Nothing came however. This was a no-win scenario. A deep sigh from the elder alicorn got their attention as the group looked back up at her.

“There is a way, but it will take a coordinated effort by all of us. It will also require research, as there is a gap in my plan,” Celestia explained.

“What do you mean, Princess?” Twilight pressed.

“While your mind, body and soul are here, Twilight, each are polluted by the presence of Discord’s magic. Therefore, we need a way to filter out his influence but still retain the necessary elements to keep you here. Unfortunately, there…there may be only one thing that can help us,” she said with a deep sigh.

“Princess, please. Are…are you saying what I think you’re saying?” the unicorn stammered.

“Twilight, I’m so sorry. But the only thing we have that can do what needs to be done are…are the telepods,” Princess Celestia stated, kneeling down to nuzzle her pupil.

“You’ve gotta be kidding me?!? After everything we went through with those things, you want to use them AGAIN?!?” Rainbow Dash shouted.

“I understand your concern. Truly, I do. But this is the only way,” the elder alicorn countered.

“Uh…with all due respect, princess…Ah mean, last time…wasn’t it…” Applejack said, her voice filled with trepidation.

“Go on, Applejack,” Celestia prodded.

“Look, Ah…Ah get it, or at least Ah think Ah do, but…but wasn’t Twilight bein’ back and all…Ah don’t know…a…a…fluke? Ah mean, you tried so many times to get it right, and each time it ended up…well, real bad. Are ya sure that Twilight bein’ here now ain’t just a one-off?” the farmer asked.

Princess Celestia closed her eyes tight as she rose from the bed unsteadily, making her way towards the window. She could not blame them for their trepidations. The telepods were the most horrible devices ever created in Equestria. Even though Discord had returned, there was some solace to be taken in the fact that the telepods would be decommissioned, never to be used again. Ever since she woke up, however, her mind was working on a solution to her student’s predicament. She’d have to go a little farther. Not only that, but she needed to convince everyone else to go along with her plan. This was no longer about royal title. They could easily refuse her, and she could not hold them to her order. The populace would no doubt side with them, after what her sister told her about the reporters spreading word all over her country. She opened her eyes staring out the window.

“I must apologize. I love Twilight very much as I love all of you. Seeing her suffer…was…was more than I could bare. I know that you all think of me as some ethereal deity, but the truth is, I have thoughts and feelings just as you do. I’m sorry for everything that’s happened, and I know that I cannot make you help with this, so instead I will ask,” she said, turning towards the group, bowing.

“Please help my student. Please help Equestria, even after everything you’ve been through. And, please, please help me,” the royal alicorn begged as her nose touched the ground in front of her.

The crowd stared wide-eyed at the gesture of humility offered by their leader. Her words rang true to them, however. Due to her status, age and title, they all looked at her as wise, god-like, maybe even perfect. But in reality, she was a pony, just like them. Her heart broke when her student died in front of her. She was depressed and angry. Her soul was filled with turmoil, just as theirs were. Yet, it seemed as though she was asking the impossible.

“But…what…what can I do? I…I mean, look at me...have you seen all the medicines I have to take? I’d just get in the way,” Fluttershy said, hiding her face behind her pink mane.

“No offense, Princess, but Fluttershy actually makes a good point. It was one thing when we had the elements of harmony, but now, we’re just normal pony-folk. What’re we supposed to do against a feller Discord?” Applejack added.

“Well, my wing’s healed pretty well, but I’m not sure what I could do either. If I could just do a sonic rainboom, maybe I’d…” she chimed before the elder alicorn cut her off.

“I know that you all have reservations. However, I’m counting on Discord having the same reservations as you do,” she said.

“Princess?” Twilight pressed.

“Even as we speak, Discord’s shield is fading. Once it’s thin enough, he will no doubt feel the presents of the activated elements. He’ll most likely count on facing my sister and me. But, I doubt he’ll expect to see any of you on the front lines,” she explained.

Twilight Sparkle let out a long sigh as her ears drooped. Noticing her change in demeanor, her mentor walked towards her, enveloping the scholar in her wing.

“What are you thinking right now, Twilight?” she asked.

“Well, it’s…I’m grateful to all of you, really. For the first time since I came back you didn’t think of helping me as a negative. But, I…I’m scared. Tartarus was…horrible…but I feel like I have to choose between an eternity of torture and a gamble on a machine that could hurt me even more. I…I guess I know I have no choice. Like you said, this is my last hope, but…but I can’t help but be frightened,” she said.

Princess Celestia used her wing to embrace her student even tighter. She was right. The trial before them was a grim one. She looked up as she heard her sibling approach, a tentative look on her face.

“Celestia, I understand the fundamentals of your plan, but…but what about…” she stammered.

“Yes?” the elder alicorn prodded.

“I didn’t want to say this in front of you, Twilight, but we are running out of time, so here it is; sister, if we are fighting Discord, and we manage to defeat him, how will we contain her soul and body long enough to get her into the pod?” she asked.

The sun princess let out a heavy sigh as she took her wing back from her pupil, and walked slowly towards her sister. She furrowed her brow as her eyes locked with her kin’s.

“There is a way, Luna. I believe you know what I’m talking about,” she stated solemnly.

Princess Luna’s face contorted from confusion to wide-eyed revulsion. If she was talking about what she thought she was talking about, the effects would be devastating.

“Tia, no! That spell was forbidden for a reason! There is no way you can do something like that to Twilight! She’s your student, for Equestria’s sake!” Luna shouted, her wings flaring.

“There is nothing else that can do what we need,” Celestia countered.

“Princess, what spell is she talking about?” Twilight inquired worriedly.

The elder alicorn turned towards her apprentice as she let out a heavy sigh. She’d already put Twilight Sparkle through so much, and yet again, she’d have to push the young mare to the limit. She silently prayed that this would be the last time she’d have to hurt her.

“Twilight there is a spell, a very old spell, which was forbidden even before our time, during the years when the pony tribes hated each other. It was archived for historical and research purposes, but as the need for it dwindled, it was lost to history. I will explain more later, but right now we have work to do,” she said.

“Tia, we have another problem, if this is part of the solution which you propose. If you and I will be fighting Discord, who do you have in mind to cast it? We certainly wouldn’t be able to. It would have to be cast at the exact moment that Discord is defeated. There’s no way we’d be able to do it in time,” Luna explained.

“I know, sister. That is why I must speak to Rarity. Alone,” she answered, her jaw clenching.

Everyone’s eyes went wide at the statement. Now that things were out in the open, it was clear that the princess of the sun had strong feelings towards the unicorn and her recent actions. And Rarity was a shadow of herself after Discord’s sick show. The very idea of putting them in the same room alone put everyone on edge. Luna cleared her throat before speaking up.

“Celestia, do you believe that will be…prudent? Given the recent circumstances, don’t you think someone else should cast it?” she asked.

“There isn’t anyone else, Luna. The only other unicorn inside the wall is our resident physician, and…” she said before she stopped herself as she saw him approach from the doorway.

“Forgive my intrusion, princess, but I couldn’t help overhearing. While I may not understand all of your plan’s moving parts, I can say for certain that I’m worried about you going into battle so soon after waking up. We don’t fully know how the drain on your magic has affected you. I’m also not sure you’d be able to handle the elements in your condition,” he explained.

“I understand, Doctor. I will do everything in my power to consult with you, but we cannot let Discord’s reign continue. He must be stopped, regardless of my health,” she answered, walking towards her sister.

“You see, Luna. This is why Rarity will be needed. If anything should happen to me, the physician needs to be able to heal me and take care of me at a moment’s notice. Therefore, the only one who can cast the spell is Rarity,” she added.

Luna clenched her jaw at the thought before turning around to view the rest of the group. They were downtrodden and scared. But, her sister was right. They needed every bit of help they could muster, and right now this was it. She straightened up to full height before addressing the rest of the former element bearers.

“Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, you will practice with me. We will need to get you ready for the coming battle. Applejack, your talents will be needed as well. I have ideas for how to use your particular skills. And Twilight,” she said.

“Yes, princess?” the unicorn responded.

“We are so sorry, but….but your intelligence and ingenuity will be needed to modify the existing pods,” she said.

“As for Rarity…I will speak with her,” Celestia interjected as she exited the room.

-

Rarity sighed heavily as she eyed the glowing wall that surrounded the castle. The sickly green hue set the terrace that she now lounged on alight, giving everything it washed over an infusion of neon. The very thought of such a color would normally frustrate her to no end, but with everything that she’s faced, it seemed inconsequential. Having enough of her room, she decided to head outside to get some fresh air, only to rediscover the wall that trapped her here. The unicorn’s eyes filled with tears as she sobbed quietly to herself. It seemed to her that no matter what happened, she’d still be confined in the nightmare that’s become her life. She cursed herself for not going with Moonbow when she had the chance. At least then she’d be away from the horrors that plagued her. She was so lost in thought, she didn’t even feel or hear the whoosh of air from the pair of wings behind her.

“Rarity,” a voice rang out behind her, forcing the fashion expert to lift her head.

Standing before her was Princess Celestia in all her glory. Rarity’s eyes widened for a moment, but her dejected look soon returned. Minutes passed as they just stared at each other. The tension was palpable, but the unicorn no longer cared. She didn’t care about the princess, she didn’t care about Canterlot, or her former friends. She just wanted to go home. Finally, Celestia cleared her throat as she approached the mare.

“Rarity, we need to talk,” she said.

“Talk? By the look on your face, probably about my banishment. Am I correct?” she countered, snidely.

“I don’t appreciate the sarcasm,” the elder alicorn bit back.

“Then stop looking at me like that!” Rarity snarled as she stood up.

The princess sighed as she let her gaze soften. Clearly, she was still angry with the former element of generosity for her past transgressions against her student. Those feelings needed to be put aside, however. She closed her eyes as she lowered her head in a slight bow.

“I…I’m sorry, Rarity. But, now that I am awake, there are things we must discuss,” she said.

Rarity raised her eyebrow at the gesture. She would have expected the princess to grow exponentially more irate at her outburst. But, instead she was showing humility. The unicorn couldn’t help but be curious. Deciding to placate her princess she cleared her throat as she wiped the tears from her eyes.

“What did you want to talk to me about, Princess Celestia?” she asked, mustering the most civil tone she could.

“I’m not sure if you’re aware, but the elements of harmony have reactivated. Luna and I have once again taken up the mantle as their bearers,” she explained, as she sat down next to her.

Rarity grunted in acknowledgement. Even in her state, she still saw the bright light that enveloped the castle. It did not surprise her that the cause of such a phenomena was the elements of harmony.

“Discord’s shield is wearing thin. With each passing second, his hold on this castle slips away. However, when the barrier is weak enough, he will be able to sense the power of the elements. That is when he will come to destroy us,” she continued.

Rarity just nodded as she looked back out towards the ethereal wall that stole her freedom.

“There will be a battle, Rarity. And in order to ensure Discord’s reign is ended forever, we must all play our part. I…I understand that what you’ve gone through is traumatic to say the least, but there is something I need you to do. Something…something only you can do,” she said.

“What…what do you mean?” Rarity inquired.

“Once Discord is sealed away by the elements, Twilight will…will die. She was brought back to this plane by his magic. Therefore once it goes away…so will she,” Princess Celestia stated.

“And?” Rarity pressed with a hint of ire in her voice.

“We have only one hope of saving her. The telepods can be calibrated to filter out Discord’s magic. Once that is complete, she will be able to live free from his grip. However, there is a problem,” she answered.

“What problem?” Rarity prodded.

“During the time between Discord’s defeat and the activation of the telepods Twilight’s soul and body may disappear. There is a spell that may keep both intact,” she said before the unicorn cut her off.

“What are you saying?!?” the fashion expert said, each word dripping with venom.

“Rarity, you are the only one capable of casting the spell. Without it, Twilight will pass on to the next world, and may even go back to Tartarus. Please, you must learn this spell and cast it when the time is right,” she said.

“HOW COULD YOU POSSIBLY ASK ME THAT?!?” Rarity screamed as tears streamed down her face.

“Rarity, please…” Celestia stated before she was cut off.

“I HATE HER! SHE…SHE…THE THINGS SHE DID TO ME WERE UNSPEAKABLE! HOW IN THE NAME OF ALL THAT IS HOLY CAN YOU ASK ME TO HELP THE MARE THAT TRIED TO KILL ME?!? THAT…THAT…TOOK ADVANTAGE OF ME?!?” she shouted as loud as her lungs would allow.

“That’s enough! Don’t you dare take that tone with me! Her transformation was only re-activated by YOUR selfish actions! You assaulted her! And in the castle! YOU TRIED TO KILL THE MARE I HELPED RAISE IN MY OWN HOME!” the princess screamed back.

“That was your fault, and you know it!” Rarity retorted.

“When are you going to take responsibility for your actions?!?” the royal alicorn countered.

“WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOURS?” Rarity bellowed.

“I beg your pardon?!?” the princess shouted.

“YOU PUT HER NEXT TO US!” the unicorn screamed.

The anger that Princess Celestia felt began to melt away slowly as confusion replaced it. Her eyebrow quirked as she huffed, approaching the near-hysterical mare.

“What in Equestria are you talking about?!?” she inquired gruffly.

“You never stopped to think about how her return would affect us! She tried to kill us! She smashed me into a wall! She tortured and crippled a mare! She murdered our pets in cold blood! She was going to experiment on us with those…those machines! And what did you do when she came back?!? YOU GAVE HER A ROOM DOWN THE HALL FROM US! Like…like she was checking into some upscale hotel! So, tell me, princess, how would you feel if someone did all those things to you, and while you were recuperating at my house from the trauma you experienced, I go and decide to give room and board to the very one that did all of that to you in the first place?!?” she asked, seething.

Celestia’s jaw dropped at the statement. She wanted nothing more than to be angry at Rarity for her transgressions. She wanted to yell at her, scream at her, she wanted to use all of her powers, both royal and magical, to punish her once the unicorn’s initial actions revealed themselves through Discord’s sick show. However, she never stopped to consider anyone else’s perspective. As the seconds ticked by, she found herself realizing that Rarity was right. They were already traumatized after what they went through. Every one of them were scarred from their encounter with Twilight Sparkle once her transformation took hold. She was shaken from her thoughts as the unicorn stood walking closer to the edge of the balcony, looking out onto the green hue that hung over their world.

“Look, I regret what I did, but…I…I just felt so powerless! I…I mean, yes we were once the element bearers, and we fought Nightmare Moon, and we fought Discord, but…but they were tangible beings. They were right in front of us, and we knew that for the sake of Equestria, we needed to defeat them. But…but what about your own thoughts? How do you beat an enemy that’s no more than your past experience? Your memories coming back to haunt you, night after night? How do you vanquish waking up in cold sweats? How do you beat not looking at food because the mere sight or smell of it makes you nauseous?” she mused aloud.

“I…we…we were dealing with all of that, and we had no answers. Regardless of the doctor’s help, and Princess Luna’s assistance, we couldn’t…there was nothing to fight. No…no work that we could put our hooves on. It was all in our heads. It just…I thought that the solution was vindication. I justified what I did because of what she did to us…to me. It may have been wrong, but…but what else was I supposed to do? I finally had the chance to confront her. The one who did this to us. A chance I never thought I’d get. But, I…I just…” the unicorn said, her thoughts drifting.

For the next few moments, the two sat in silence as they looked out over the terrace, the green glow from the ethereal wall engulfing everything around them. Rarity’s ears perked up at the sound of Celestia standing, but her gaze never changed. She couldn’t look at her. The guilt mixed with the sadness and anger were too overwhelming. The alicorn cleared her throat before sighing heavily.

“Rarity, there is nothing I can do to change your past. Your actions were your own, but I am sorry if I caused you any pain. It was never my intension to do so,” she said.

Rarity just nodded as she heard the princess walk to the edge of the balcony and unfurl her wings.

“However, what’s done is done. And right now, Discord’s reign over Equestria must be stopped. With the elements back, we have a chance to do that, but…Rarity, you have a chance to save a life. Even if it’s not a life you want to save, the bottom line is that without your help, Twilight Sparkle will perish. I just ask you to look within yourself. Is this really what you want? Are you truly content with letting Twilight die? Regardless of what she’s done, she’s still a pony. And a pony that you once called a friend. I cannot force you to do this. Helping Twilight is your choice and yours alone,” she explained as she placed her front hooves on the balcony railing about to push off.

“Think about it. Please. I…we will await your decision,” the royal alicorn said as she took to the air.

-

Pinkie Pie let out a groan as light invaded her eyes. She turned over hugging the pillow at her side, silently wishing the rays of sun away. She was so tired. Her mind wanted to stretch her limbs, but when she tried, a whimper escaped her throat, her body enveloped by the bed she lay in. Using her right hoof to remove the strands of her mane from her eyes, she clicked her tongue a few times, tasting the dryness within her mouth. As the fog cleared from her mind, she shook her head, sitting up slowly.

‘P…Pillow? Bed? Where…where am I?’ she thought as she struggled to open her eyes.

Using her hoof once again, the party pony rubbed her eyes furiously, doing her best to remove the remnants of sleep from them. After a few moments, she was finally satisfied that they’d been cleared as she opened her eyes. She gasped as her vision came into focus. She seemed to be in a simple cottage. The smell of the wood trim on the large bay window next to her bed invaded her nostrils as she used her hooves to caress the satin sheets covering her hind legs. Examining the light wood of the floors, walls and ceiling certainly gave it a rustic look, but provided no information as to where she was. There were no pictures, decorations, or even any other furniture. A simple door on the other side of the rectangular box was the only other thing she saw besides the window. Pinkie Pie moved stiffly to remove her covers, as she planted all four hooves on the ground. She quickly lost her balance, as she swayed to her side, bracing herself against the bed. Once she was convinced she could move again, she clenched her jaw as she focused on putting one hoof in front of the other, making her way towards the window in an attempt to get her bearings. Her mind raced, trying to think of an explanation.

‘Ow! Why can’t I move?!? It feels like I haven’t gotten out of bed in a week! The last thing I remember was…’ her mind echoed as she gasped at the image on the other side of the window.

“Discord!” she shouted as she moved as swiftly as she could towards the door.

Opening the door, and making her way tentatively but quickly down the steps of the porch which adorned the back of the cottage. The master of chaos didn’t seem to notice her as he whistled a tune to himself. As she approached cautiously, Pinkie Pie tilted her head inquisitively. The Draconequus was holding a fishing rod as he cast a line out towards the running stream in front of them. The mare looked from side to side, taking in her surroundings. They were surrounded by tall trees, each one thick with leaves. Suddenly a voice rang out making her gasp.

“Well, it looks like the plucky little earth pony is finally awake,” Discord said, not bothering to turn around.

“D…Discord, wha…where are we?!? What…what did you do to me?!?” Pinkie Pie demanded her brow furrowing.

“Well, isn’t it obvious? You were in no condition for…well, anything really. So, I thought I’d give you some time to recoup. You were quite banged up, little one,” he answered.

Pinkie Pie looked away as she sat on her haunches. All the memories came back to her. The beatings, the running, the cut on her leg. It seemed like everyone in Equestria was out to get her. Yet, here was an enemy, and that enemy helped her. It didn’t make sense, even for Discord. She needed to know more.

“So…so, you helped me? But…but why? I…I thought we were…” she stammered as he cut her off.

“Enemies? Oh, that we are, my dear. But, I’m not totally heartless. Besides, you seemed to go through quite some effort to find me, and I became quite curious as to what you wanted of me,” he said.

She froze at the request. She never envisioned herself having such a cordial conversation with him. In her mind, she was going to have to do something to make him talk, but yet, here he was, exchanging words with her just like any other pony. Was it meant to throw her off? She didn’t know, but she couldn’t let the opportunity slip away. Not again. If he was willing to give her an explanation, then she needed to be ready to ask for one.

“I…I just wanted to know why. Why are you doing all of this? To Equestria? To us, and…and to Twilight?” she inquired.

“Well, I believe that’s a simple and direct enough question. Perhaps you can answer it yourself,” he said.

“Myself? How?” she pressed.

“Pinkie Pie, if you were the master of all you surveyed, and suddenly one day, a few ponies came along and imprisoned you, how would you feel?” he questioned.

“W…well, I guess I’d be…I dunno,” she said.

“Would you be upset? Angry, perhaps?” he prodded further.

“I…I guess I would be, but…but you were hurting other ponies! And…and that’s why the princesses had to stop you! That’s why we had to stop you!” she answered.

“Nevertheless, you hurt me. Is it so unlikely that I’d want to hurt you back?” he said.

“But…so, that’s it? This was all just some simple plan for revenge?” she countered, her tone becoming more exasperated by the moment.

“Oh, there was nothing simple about it. It never would have occurred to me, had it not been for a few children playing a game,” he explained.

“Game? What do you mean?” she pressed.

“Have you ever played with dominoes, Pinkie?” he asked.

“Well…yes, of course I have! But what does this have to do with a game of dominoes?!?” she shouted.

“That was the inspiration, my dear. You see, after I dispatched you and the rest of your friends in that delightful maze, I had some time to tour the new Equestria. So many things had changed, yet some things remained the same. I was off…er…somewhere, causing some great chaos, when I heard some giggling coming from a thicket. And you know how curious I can be, so I couldn’t help but see what the fuss was about. I stuck my head in to see, and lo and behold, this little pony, was lining up this little tiles in a quite extravagant pattern. At first I was disgusted. The order of it…it was sickening to me! I was about to destroy it, when all of a sudden, another little pony appeared. The look on his face suggested he was up to no good, so I decided to wait a moment, to see what this pony was going to do. And then something magical happened!” he explained as he turned his head towards Pinkie Pie.

“What? What happened?” the earth pony inquired.

“Well, Pinkie, you see he walked right up to that huge display, and with a mere touch of the hoof, knocked down the first tile, which knocked down the second, and the third! Soon all of the tiles were on the ground! It was beautiful! With the slightest touch, order became chaos! And…and yet, the pattern itself…when they were all knocked down in sequence! Oh, Pinkie Pie, it was a beautiful marriage of chaos and order! I never thought the two could co-exist, but yet, here they were! Destruction and harmony, living as one! It fascinated me!” he said as he recast his line back into the river.

“I later found out those things were called dominoes. So simple, yet so expressive. How could there be any chaos more beautiful, I ask you?” he continued.

“Alright, but…but what does Twilight have to do with dominoes?” she asked.

“Pinkie, Pinkie, Pinkie, you just don’t understand, do you?” he said shaking his head.

“What?” she responded.

“Why, Twilight Sparkle was my little domino, of course. I knew that with bringing her back, with bringing one little pony back to life, she would be enough to swing the pendulum back in my favor,” he stated.

“But…but how did…how did you know that was going to happen?” the party pony asked.

“Pinkie Pie, what exactly did you think everyone’s reactions were going to be once they found out that she’d returned? I saw how everyone was. I saw what everyone thought of Twilight Sparkle. What, did you honestly think they were just going to forgive her? Treat her as if nothing ever happened? Are you seriously that naïve?” he laughed.

Her eyes welled up with tears as she rubbed them out of her eyes. He was right. She’d been so stupid to think that nothing was going to go wrong. But that was who she was. She prided herself on always looking on the bright side, always seeing the good in ponies, no matter what anyone else said. But, she couldn’t deny Discord’s point. She never did think about everyone else when she released the chaos lord. For the first time since everything happened, she began to regret releasing him. The very idea of regretting such a thing made her sick to her stomach, however. Did her feelings and personality truly betray her? She snapped out of her daydream as his voice rang out again.

“Pinkie Pie, can I ask you something?” he said.

“What is it?” she acknowledged.

“Why do you love them so much?” he asked.

She sighed deeply. This was not a question that she was prepared to answer, especially after the previous conversation. Normally, she’d spew with pride and exuberance at such a question, but now, it was much harder to think about.

“They…look, we all make mistakes, but I…they’re my friends! All I’ve ever wanted was to be by their side forever! To make them laugh, to be there for them. That’s all I’ve ever wanted out of life, and I can’t imagine mine without them” she answered.

“Even now? With everything that’s happened?” Discord inquired.

“Of course! I love them all, and nothing will ever change that!” she shouted defiantly.

“Nothing will ever change that, huh? Well, what if they don’t feel the same way about you? What then? Would you still love them so unconditionally?” the chaos lord mused further.

Pinkie Pie brought her right hoof to her mouth, as her gaze met the ground in front of her. Once again, he raised a good point. After everything she’d done, would they hate her? Princess Celestia seemed to forgive her, but, how could she be sure? Everyone else in Equestria seemed to hate her guts. Was it so far out of the realm of possibility that her former friends would feel the same way? This was something she didn’t want to think about. Overwhelmed, she decided to try and change the subject.

“Umm, Discord? How…how long was I out for?” she asked.

“Haha, very well. You were asleep for about a week, give or take a few days,” he answered, placating her.

“What?!? A whole week?!?” she exclaimed.

“Yes. You were quite the broken little pony when you found me in Appleoosa. It surprised me as well, but you seem to be doing much better now,” he said as he withdrew his line from the water.

Pinkie Pie gasped as the line revealed a small fish on the end. It was no ordinary fish, however. The fish wore what looked to her like golden armor and a military style helmet.

“Is…is that…” she stammered worriedly.

“Oh, yes! This has become my new favorite pastime. Whenever a troupe of royal guards finds me, I’ve been turning them into fish. They are slippery little devils, though, I can tell you that!” he laughed as he threw the guard back into the water.

“How…how can you do this?!? That’s not funny! They were just doing their jobs!” she yelled.

“See, that’s your problem, Pinkie. You know as well as I do, that was hilarious! Here, why don’t you take a turn, and you’ll see what I mean,” he said as a fishing rod appeared in Pinkie Pie’s hooves.

“No!” she said throwing the stick down.

“Pinkie, you need to face certain facts. No one likes you anymore. Instead of brining joy to other ponies’ lives, they all hate you, even your so-called friends. So, in case you didn’t notice, I’m offering you something very important,” he stated.

“What? What are you talking about?” she pressed.

He sighed as he put his fishing pole down, turning towards the mare. He walked up to her slowly, as she began to shrink away. The chaos-bringer knelt down, and using his paw, he gently caressed the party planner’s cheek.

“I’m offering you a chance to join me, Pinkie. You were the element of laughter, the most fun of all the elements. And that’s what you deserve, Pinkie; fun. Imagine it! A world where I can do anything I want, and you can just laugh and laugh. You don’t have friendship anymore, but in my world, you wouldn’t need it! You could just be your normal bubbly self and watch as I create beautiful chaos. This world rejected you, regardless of your intent to make everyone happy. You owe them nothing. So, why not make it easier on yourself and just follow me?” he explained.

She stared at him wide-eyed, trying to process what she just heard. The Draconequus surprised her once again. She couldn’t believe how quickly he turned things around. She looked away, still allowing him to cradle her cheek in his paw. Tears flowed freely now from her eyes. Was he right? Was this her best chance for happiness now? Her confusion reached its fever pitch as she collapsed in front of him, wailing into her hooves. She couldn’t believe that she was actually considering his offer, but after what he just said, the alternatives seemed much scarier. He let out a low growl, as he turned away from her. She looked up at him wiping the tears from her eyes.

“Well, Pinkie Pie, I believe the moment has arrived. I didn’t think I’d ever see them again, but…no matter. I’ll end them. This time once and for all. I suggest you get back to the castle as quickly as you can. There is where I will await your answer. There is where both of our fates will be decided,” he said as he disappeared, leaving the earth pony still sobbing quietly.

Finally after a few moments, she collected herself and walked up to the stream in front of her. The water was crystal clear, her reflection almost as perfect as if she were looking into a mirror. The image was telling. This is what she was now. Straight mane, no smile. This isn’t who she wanted to be, but it’s what her reality made her. As she looked into her own eyes, one phrase kept repeating itself in her mind.

‘What do I do, Pinkie? What do I do?’

-

Sorry for the delay in getting this chapter out. It’s been a very hectic few past few months for me, and my as activities show no signs of slowing down, the last few chapters I have to write may take a little longer than usual to get out. At this point, I think I have about 3 more chapters to go, so, things are moving along. Also, shout out to Twilycat for being a most excellent pre-reader for not just this chapter, but the last few chapters as well. Anyway, I hope everyone is having fun this summer, and enjoy the new chapter!