WARNING!
This Fan fiction was written for the ADULT FANS of My Little Pony Friendship is Magic. While this is not a Porn or Clop fiction, certain themes, scenes and storylines may not be suitable for a younger audience. Reader discretion is advised.
The gym of Franklin College was packed as the final round of the College MMA Championship was about to begin. Sitting in a metal chair, sweating and sore, was Daniel, a tall, clean cut young man, covered toned muscle, with short brown hair and blue eyes. Sitting in the opposite corner, was his opponent, a huge blonde colossus with a build that would put a gorilla to shame. Daniel was exhausted, his body warning him to finish this soon, or it would simply cease function. Looking into the crowd briefly, he saw his girlfriend Lisa, an olive skinned brunette, dressed in jeans and a black shirt, giving him a confident smile of encouragement. Summoning a smile of his own, her faith revitalized him.
The ref walked into the center of the mat and moved his arms apart signaling it was about to begin. As Daniel stood up, he pushed his exhaustion aside, focusing on one thing, winning.
The bell rang and the two fighters met in the center like charging bulls. Daniel blocked a powerful blow to his face, which sent a wave of pain from his arm throughout his aching body. Keeping his focus, Daniel swung; catching his enemy across the jaw causing him to stagger back. Then spinning brought his foot around in a powerful kick, knocking his opponent out cold.
The crowd exploded into a frenzied cheer as Lisa howled her approval, enthusiastically jumping up and down in celebration of his victory. Tired but happy, he was in a strange sort of dream like haze as the ref raised his arm to declare him the winner.
A short while, in a hot shower he slowly came out of it. Rinsing shampoo from his hair, he thought about what lay ahead over the next couple of months. By the end of next semester he would graduate with a Bachelor's of Accounting and all ready had a strong lead on a job. Lisa and he had been dating since freshman year and now almost four years later they were still going strong. And if things couldn't be better, now he was a college MMA champion. He turned off the water; and wrapping a towel around his waist, he stepped out onto the locker room floor to get dressed. He had always felt he lived a charmed life, but in spite of how good things were, there was only one thing that could make it complete. Going over to his bag, he pulled out a small black jewelry box and opening it, examined the diamond ring inside. Tonight, at his parents' Christmas party, he was going to ask Lisa to be his wife. A moment he had planned for months as he saved to buy the ring. Despite Lisa's natural ability to sniff out secrets, he had somehow miraculously managed to keep his plan from her.
As he closed the box, he noticed his coach and trainer, a short, heavily muscled man with salt and pepper hair and a handle bar mustache, standing next to the lockers, "That was one heck of a fight, Brady."
"Thank you coach," Daniel replied.
"You know, I have trained a lot of athletes over the years and you are one of the best I've ever seen." The coach commented.
Daniel smiled and replied modestly, "All thanks to your training."
"Don't self yourself short, Kid." The Coach replied, "You have real talent, which is why I want to run something by you."
"What's that?" Daniel asked.
"An opportunity," He replied, with a genuine smile, "I can't promise anything, but I do have some connections and if things go well and you're willing to work as hard as you have been, you could go pro." Daniel's eyes widened as he went on, "Don't give me an answer right now. This is a big decision and I want you to take real time to think about it. That and I'm sure Lisa is going to want to put her two cents in."
"All right," Daniel then asked, "When would you need my answer by?"
"Try to let me know after right after New Year's, if you can." he replied, "But think it over carefully. This is once in a life time chance, but it has to be one you want. If you decide it isn't for you, no hard feelings."
"I understand," Daniel said graciously, as they shook hands, "and thanks."
"Hey, you've earned this," The coach replied, "Now hurry up, that girlfriend of yours is waiting outside and she's starting to look impatient."
Daniel laughed, "Thanks, Merry Christmas, Coach."
"You too Brady, and a happy new year," He replied, as he turned to go.
Daniel quickly dried off and dressed in a collared shirt and his lucky tie, black slacks and a pair of dress shoes he had shined to perfection. After taking a moment to style his hair, he quickly exited the locker room, anxious to tell Lisa the good news.
He saw her sitting on a bench in the hallway talking on her cell phone,
Seeing him, she smiled and waved, "Daniel just came out. I'll call you back later, Sunset" She said, "Yes we're on for new years, wouldn't miss it. Uh huh, talk to you soon." Hanging up, she stood up and wrapped her arms around his neck. "Hey Baby," She greeted, kissing him, "What took so long? I was about to send a search party after you."
Chuckling, Daniel said,"Coach wanted a word with me about an opportunity."
Taking his hand, she said, "Come on, you can tell me all about it on the way."
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The snow fell heavily as Daniel drove to his parent's place on the other side of the city. Every corner, building and light post was adorned with bright lights, wreathes and tinsel giving the street a festive holiday glow. Given the romantic atmosphere, he almost considered asking her then. However, he had planned it all out at his parents' place and they were just as excited as he was for the big moment. That and the ring was in his bag in the back seat. Better to wait for the right moment, which wouldn't disappoint his folks and wouldn't require him to stop the car.
Sitting beside him, Lisa contemplated the coach's offer, "So are you going to do it?" She asked.
"I don't know yet," Daniel replied thoughtfully, "I mean a professional career is exciting to think about, but then again accounting is much more stable. Given I want to get married and start a family, stable might be better than exciting at this point in my life. Especially in the long term."
"You know, you've been talking about marriage a lot lately," Lisa commented, in a probing way.
"Have I now?" Daniel teased, as he stopped for a red light.
She flashed him a knowing smile, and said. "Yes, it seems to be on your mind a lot."
"Well you know me, I am always thinking about the future." Daniel said evasively, hoping she hadn't figured it out, "A lot of people are getting married after graduation."
"Are they now?" She asked, with a cat like expression, "And are you having thoughts in that direction?"
Daniel paused thoughtfully, "I don't know, there are many advantages to being a bachelor it's a lot to give up."
"Daniel Jefferson Brady! " Lisa exclaimed in a playful, scolding tone, "Are you teasing me?"
Daniel glanced over at her with a mischievous smile, "Maybe,"
Both of them burst into happy laughter and as the traffic light turned green Daniel pulled into the intersection.
Lisa eyes widened and she screamed, "Look out!"
Daniel turned his head just in time to see the headlights speeding toward them. The force of the impact knocked him senseless. Shattering glass rained down as the world went dark around him.
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Princess Celestia awoke up with a gasp, her bed sheets soaked in a cold sweat as images from her nightmare played over and over again in her mind. As she tried to calm down, the sound of the crash and that young woman's scream continued to echo in her ears tormenting her like a phantom. She had been having terrible nightmares for months. All stories of pain from the human world, repeating over and over again like chapters in some dreadful book she was forced to read over and over again. While Luna was worried, Celestia knew these were just dreams and had dismissed them as such. However, tonight something was different. Sensing she wasn't alone, her heart thudded in her chest as her purple eyes scanned the darkness.
"Who's there?" She demanded, her horn glowing as she summoned her magic, "Show yourself."
An eerie, disembodied cackle came out the darkness followed by the sound of quick scratching. A chill went down Celestia's spine, as the words, 'Soon Nag,' were slashed into the wall in front of her.
"Guards!" Celestia shouted with mixture of anger and fear, "Guards!"
The door to her private bedroom flew open as two unicorns dressed in the golden armor of Equestria charged in, "You're Majesty, all you all right?" One of them asked.
As if unable to hear them, Celestia stared silently at the writing on the wall as the two soldiers gave each other concerned looks. One of them reached forward and touched her gently with his hoof, "You're majesty?" After a few more moments of Silence one said, "We'd better notify the Captain of the Guard."
"Do that, and tell him I want the palace searched!" she ordered, finally regaining her presence of mind, "And summon Princess Luna at once!"
"Yes, your majesty." They replied.
Moments later Luna arrived in Celestia's bedroom, "Sister, are you alright?"
"I'm fine," Celestia replied as she regained her composure, "Just a bit shaken."
"Understandably so," Luna said, preparing to have the same argument she had been having with her sister for months. "You can't continue to insist these are mere dreams, Celestia. It is clear they are a threat from a dark power in the Earth Realm." Luna pointed to the writing on the wall, "And it is clear whatever that threat is, the time has come to face it."
"I know." Celestia said distantly, "I didn't want to believe it, but now I have no choice."
"Given this seems to be directed towards you personally, and you have had some experience with Earth, do you have any idea who or what is behind this?" Luna asked. "I have tried researching records from our former outpost there, but couldn't find anything. At least not anything that was clear aside from your order to close it almost thirty years ago and have most of the records sealed."
"I have some ideas, but I can't say for certain, only that Sunset Shimmer is involved." Celestia replied, with a slight hint of evasion in her voice. "What I do know is, whatever dark power is behind this, it was strong enough to manifest in Equestria tonight. For a few moments it was in my room, Luna."
"This is dire news indeed," Luna replied, "Given Sunset Shimmer's plan last time to bring a human army through the mirror, if she is back at it, again aided by a dark power that strong…"
-"It could mean war with the human realm." Celestia said grimly, finishing her thought.
"There is only one thing that can be done. Some pony must go to Earth and stop her and whatever is aiding her, before that happens." Luna said urgently.
"I'll go." Celestia replied.
"Sister, if the threat of war is upon us, you are needed here." Luna said firmly, "I suggest sending Twilight Sparkle."
"No," Celestia replied flatly, "It's too dangerous, especially given the power of the enemy involved."
"Sister, I understand your concerns, but you underestimate your pupil. She at least has had some experience with the human world." Luna pointed out, "She has also faced many challenges before that seemed hopeless and prevailed. After all, it was she who defeated Discord before his reformation and Tirek, not to mention myself when I was Nightmare Moon. You know as well as I do, she is the one and only choice."
Celestia sighed, "You are right, but I still don't like it. The Earth Realm is a dangerous place and she is so young and inexperienced."
"I am sure she is up to the task," Luna said confidently, "Besides, she may even be able to enlist the aid of the humans. As this poses a threat to them as well…"
"No," Celestia cut her off, "absolutely not."
"If she were to gain human allies they could be invaluable in resolving this quickly." Luna argued.
Celestia shook her head, "Every contact with the humans has ended in disaster for both sides. I will not put both worlds in anymore danger than they all ready are."
"Twilight's didn't." Luna countered.
"That was a different situation entirely." Celestia replied defensively.
"Was it?" Luna asked.
"I said no, Luna!" Celestia snapped, "Twilight's mission is to apprehend Sunset Shimmer and bring her back here for questioning and trial! She will not reveal who she is or why she is there to those savage primates under any circumstances!"
Taken back by her sister's uncharacteristic reaction, Luna decided to let the matter drop and said, "Very well, but her friends should accompany her." As Celestia opened her mouth to object, The Princess of the Night quickly added, "Given the disturbance is far from where she crossed over the last time, we should see no complications arise. That and she will certainly need the Magic of Friendship if she is to stand a chance against the unforgiving nature of Earth."
Celestia moved to speak, but instead silently nodded her agreement.
"Very well then, it is decided." Luna replied, "I shall send for Twilight and her friends immediately."
"We must send for Shinning armor as well," Celestia added, "For if war comes to Equestria we will need to be prepared."
"I will see to that Sister, but given this is likely to be a difficult ordeal you should rest now." Luna urged her, "I shall do my best to shield you from any further dreams."
Celestia smiled, "Thank you."
"One more thing, before I go." Luna paused awkwardly as she braced to ask her next question "Is there something you're not telling me about all this?"
Celestia forced herself to smile, and said, "No little Sister, but if I think of anything I will be sure to let you know."
"Very well," Luna said, "Sleep well."
"Good night." Celestia replied.
Exiting Celestia's room, after the door closed, Luna shook her head and sighed, "Mother always said you were a bad liar, Big Sister."
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Cadance smiled as she saw Twilight and her friends walk into the hall outside the royal throne. Standing up uncomfortably due to her pregnancy, she walked over she greeted her sister in law with a cheerful, "Twilight!"
Twilight quickly rushed over to meet her, "Cadance!"
The two ponies paused in front of each other and began their usual dance and chant of greeting, "Sunshine, sunshine, lady bugs awake, clap your hooves and do a little shake!" The two of them laughed and hugged.
"You're looking simply radiant, how far along are you?" Twilight asked.
Candace smiled and looked down at her swollen belly, "Seven months, I and feel like a beached whale."
"Nonsense princess," Rarity commented, "You look even more beautiful than ever."
"Thank you," Cadance replied graciously, "I just can't wait for this filly to be born."
"So it's a girl?" Apple Jack asked.
"I hope so, but Shinning Armor is still hoping for a colt." The princess replied.
"A baby colt would be so cute." Fluttershy commented enthusiastically, and then wilted, "Not that a little Filly wouldn't be adorable as well."
"Maybe you'll have twins like the cakes!" Pinkie Pie chimed in excitedly, "That would be so super dupperly spectacularly awesome!"
"We'll see." Cadance replied, "But enough about me, how's it going with Flash Sentry? And I want details!"
"Marvelous," Twilight replied happily, "I never imagined having a special some pony would be so wonderful. He took me to the Rainbow Falls at Cloudsdale for Hearts and Hooves day and it was simply magical." She her eyes then widened with excitement, "I even got to meet his parents while we were there, I just adore his mother."
"So I take it you two are pretty serious?" Cadance asked.
"Serious!" Spike suddenly exclaimed, "More like gone off the deep end! Every time I turn around they're all like smooch, smooch," he replied, making kissing noises and movements with his mouth, "Like one time I came down stairs in the morning and Twilight was…"
Blushing furiously, Twilight cut him off with a sharp "Spike!" causing all the other ponies to burst out laughing.
"Mushy stuff," Rainbow Dash said contemptuously, eliciting an eye roll from Twilight.
"What's wrong with a little romance, Rainbow Dash?" Cadance asked.
"All that kissy, kissy, I love you, I love you more," The pegasus feigned a gag "it's just twitter pated sap."
"It's not so bad when it's with the right pony." Cadance argued gently, "It can ever be magical."
"Yeah, well I am too awesome to get all weak kneed over some Stallion." The pegasus replied.
Having heard this all before, Twilight gave her a skeptical look, and said smugly "It's going to be so great when you fall in love, Rain Dash."
"Yeah, like that'll happen." She replied sarcastically.
Before anyone could say anything further, the door to the throne room opened and a guard pony announced, "The Princesses are ready for you now."
The ponies and Spike filed in where Celestia and Luna were waiting.
"Greetings my little ponies," Celestia said warmly, "first of all, I want to thank you all for coming on such short notice."
"We're happy to do it, "Twilight replied as the other ponies nodded in agreement.
"Now before we begin, I must inform you that you are going to learn one of Equestria's greatest secrets. No one aside from myself and Princess Luna knows what I am about to tell you. "
"Don't worry about us Princess." Rarity said reassuringly.
"We won't flap our gums about it to no pony." Apple Jack added.
"Very well," Celestia replied, "I hope you all recall the mirror that allowed Twilight Sparkle to venture into another world to retrieve her crown." After all the ponies nodded, Celestia continued, "Well, unknown to most, that mirror was one of many, created centuries ago by Starswirl the Bearded as a means of instant travel to any point in Equestria. However, when he attempted to use them, he discovered that they lead to a place much further than he anticipated." Celestia turned to her sister and nodded. Luna's horn began to glow and a large star map of the Milky Way Galaxy appeared above them, with two distant points shown as red and blue dots." The red point represents our world and the blue one represents the place Twilight Sparkle visited previously." All the ponies oo'd and awed at the sight, as Celestia continued, "It is called Earth and is dominated by a sapient species of ape that calls itself Humanity. Like our world, theirs also possesses powerful magic. However, where we developed the magic of Equestria, they choose technology instead and as a result the practice of magic fell out of use and is all but forgotten."
"Do they know of our existence?" Twilight asked.
Celestia hesitated for a moment and then said, "No, we had an outpost there at one time, but I decided to close it for safety reasons. While incredibly gifted with technology, the humans are not as advanced as us culturally. I was concerned that should they learn of our world and a means to come here, given their warlike nature they may choose to invade. So I kept our visitation for the most part a secret from them. However, after certain events occurred that caused me to close the outpost, I ordered all use of the mirrors to cease and the hall of mirrors sealed permanently. After Shimmer's decision to remain on Earth permanently, I was considering placing the final one in the Crystal Empire with its counter parts. However, it was not to be."
Rarity's faced filled with concern, "What do you mean?"
Luna stepped forward, "We have reason to believe that Sunset Shimmer has allied herself with a dark power in the human world and has resumed her previous plans. "
"How could she?" Twilight asked with a mixture of shock and surprise, "I thought she had embraced the magic of friendship."
"I don't have those answers, my good and faithful student," Celestia replied, "But if Sunset Shimmer is planning to invade with a human army there is great cause for concern. Even with our magic the human's technology would place us on equal footing and the confrontation would be disastrous leaving both our worlds in ruins. This is the reason why I sent for you. I ask that you and your friends journey to Earth and apprehend her and bring her here for questioning and trial before what we fear comes to pass."
"Princess," Apple Jack began cautiously, "It's not that I want to question your judgment here, but how in the Sam hill can we find her? I mean this is a planet we're talking about and given we're ponies, won't we stick out like sore thumbs?"
"As with Twilight, when she departed previously, we will cast spells that will allow you to take human form. Only unlike the last two times Twilight ventured there, given the magic that has recently awakened in their world, you will have the ability to return to your true form at will. Also, you will find that you will be able to retain your magic."
"Really?" Twilight gasped, "That's good news, at least."
"Yes, but do not become overconfident." Celestia warned, "You will be aliens in a strange world full of dangers you cannot imagine. I can only suggest you remain in your human form as much as possible changing back to your true selves only in times of great need. I must also warn you that being in their form and living as they do for a long period of time will change you in ways you won't expect. Thus, I can't stress enough how crucial it is that you accomplish this task as quickly as possible. She has moved to a place near our previous outpost, a place where magic has recently awakened." Celestia gave them a sympathetic look, "I don't know what condition it will be in or if it is still standing only that a mirror exists there for you to arrive through. If you are fortunate and the outpost is still standing, you may be able to set it up as base of operations." She then said with all seriousness in her voice, "This will more dangerous than any other challenge you have faced so I won't command you to do this, but ask you to do so voluntarily. But before you say yes, I must again state that Earth is a dangerous place full of peril. Humans are a dangerous savage species who will think nothing of doing you harm; especially should they learn who you really are. Some ponies who ventured there never came back."
The ponies exchanged glances as if speaking a silent language that only they could understand. Finally Twilight spoke, "We accept this mission, Princess."
"Mmm hmm." Pinkie pie said.
"You can count on us." Apple Jack added.
Celestia smiled, "Very well then, you leave in the morning. Now I am sure you have many things to do before you leave tomorrow so I will bid you good bye until then."
As the ponies began to leave, Twilight pulled Cadance aside.
"Cadance, I need a huge favor." Twilight began in a hushed tone, "if it's not too much trouble."
"Sure Twilight, I would do anything for you, you know that." Cadance replied.
"Well, Flash has a big romantic evening planned and…"
"You were wondering if Shinning Armor and I could take Spike for the night." Cadance said, finishing her sentence, "And the answer is yes. Shinning Armor has been so busy with mobilizing the army that I would be grateful for the company."
Twilight hugged her, "Thanks, you're the best."
"Anything for my favorite sister in law," Cadance replied accepting her embrace, "You go have fun, and I expect details."
"Of course," Twilight replied.
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The next morning: Rarity, Apple Jack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy and Spike along with their friends and family were standing in the waiting area outside the hall of mirrors. It was little room with next to no furniture having been unused for quite some time. It's most dominating feature was a huge set of large black metal doors, bearing markings of Star swirl the bearded that lead to the Hall of Mirrors. The mood was solemn and tearful as the ponies exchanged goodbyes with their loved ones.
"Now you will be a good pony, Sweetie Bell and mind Granny Smith while I'm away." Rarity began in an almost motherly tone as she gave her little sister a hug.
"That goes for you as well, Apple Bloom." Apple Jack said with a gentle firmness, "No crazy stuff while I'm gone.
"Don't worry, big Sis." Apple Bloom replied.
"We will be as well behaved as ever!" Sweetie Bell added.
"I know you will," Rarity said, wiping her eyes before hugging her sister again, "You always make me proud."
"Don't you worry none; I'll take good care of them." Granny Smith said confidently.
"Ya'll take care of yourselves now." Big Macintosh said, as he gave his sister a hug, "And come back soon, ya hear?"
"You betcha," Apple Jack said, a tear running down her cheek.
"No worries, I'll make sure nothing happens to her." Rarity said.
A short distance away, Discord was giving reassurance to Fluttershy, "I promise, I will make sure your animal friends are well taken care of while you're away."
"I know you will." Fluttershy replied with a small lopsided smile. She moved forward to give her friend a hug and Discord quickly turned his head offering her his cheek. After a moment's hesitation, she gave him a gentle peck and then turned to Angel, "And you mister, no giving Discord a hard time while I'm away. While I am gone he's in charge and I expect you to do everything you can to help him."
The small white rabbit looked up at her, and saluted with his paw.
Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo hugged tightly, "Now, you keep working on those exercises I taught you. I expect you to be able to tread air for a full minute when I get back."
"I will Rainbow Dash," The tiny pegasus replied, "I promise."
"And if you need anything, anything at all…" Rainbow Dash began.
"I am to contact your brother, Star Dash." Scootaloo replied.
"Where is Twilight?" Shinning Armor asked Cadance, "They're supposed to leave soon."
"I don't know," The Princess of Love replied, "I haven't seen her since she dropped off Spike last night."
"Probably smooching somewhere," Spike muttered.
Shinning Armor's face flashed with annoyance, "I swear, that colt is so irresponsible. I don't know what Twiley see's in him!"
"We don't know if it's Flash Sentry's fault." Cadance pointed out with slight displeasure in her voice.
Just then Twilight and Flash Sentry came rushing in, looking somewhat disheveled.
"Lieutenant," Shinning Armor began in a displeased tone, "You we're supposed to be here at 0500 and it's 0515. Care to explain to me why you are late?"
Flash Sentry stood at attention and saluted. "Sorry sir."
As if not hearing him, Twilight's brother continued to chide him, "And look at your sloppy appearance, did you just roll out of bed or something?"
Cadance silently rolled her eyes.
"I have no excuse sir," Flash Sentry replied formally.
"Maybe some laps around the palace would help you be on time in the future." Shinning Armor said looking him over, "And dressed to the standards of a soldier of Equestria."
"It was my fault." Twilight said coming to the rescue, "I was dragging my hooves getting ready, if not for Flash helping me; I may have been even later."
"All right, I'll let it slide this time." He then gave Twilight Special Some Pony a scathing look, "But I don't want to see this again? Understood, Lieutenant Sentry?"
"Yes sir." The young colt replied.
"Come on, Sweetie." Cadance intervened, "Let's give the love birds a chance to say their goodbyes."
Once Shinning Armor and Cadance moved away Twilight quickly hugged Flash Sentry, "You're sure you understand how to use the mirror I gave you?" Twilight asked, as her eyes moistened.
"Given you've explained it to me about six or seven times and left written instructions I think I'll manage," Flash Sentry chuckled, "You just come back soon, okay?"
"I will, I promise." Twilight wept, "I miss you all ready."
As she moved to kiss him, Flash put a hoof out to stop her and said, "Please babe, not in front of your brother."
"Hush," Twilight replied and then kissed him passionately, "I love you."
"I love you too, Twilight, with all my heart." He replied sincerely, barely keeping his composure.
Pinkie Pie glanced anxiously at the entrance to the room, "Has anyone seen Cheese?"
"I'm sorry, Pinkie." Cadance replied, "He hasn't arrived yet."
"Oh," Pinkie's ears wilted, "Well if he does show up, give him a hug and tell him I said good bye."
"I will." Cadance replied, "You have my word."
The large metal door to the Hall of Mirrors opened and Princess Celestia peered through, "It's time."
Twilight and Spike moved forward with their friends behind them entering a massive stone hall way. It was lined with mirrors of all shapes and sizes, glowing many different colors. The light was bight and dazzling, but not painful to look at as a feeling of mystery and power ebbed and flowed like a beating heart. Once they had entered, Luna shut the door behind them.
Celestia lead them down a ways until they came to a large full length mirror, glowing white with magic. Stopping she said, "It's time, just because we aren't sure what to expect, when you arrive, you will be in your human forms. I can't stress enough how important it is for you to be vigilant." She then turned to Twilight, "Once you have crossed over and are able to do so, contact me to let me know you have arrived safely."
"I will." Twilight replied.
"Sister, they must go now." Luna said urgently.
"Very well, my little ponies, good luck." Celestia said.
The ponies all stood, looking anxiously at the mirror, as if silently debating who was going first. Then suddenly, with a loud whee! Pinkie Pie rushed forward diving through. The matter settled, one by one the rest went through, with Fluttershy being last, departing with a brief squeak.
Once they were gone, Celestia sighed heavily.
"What is it, sister?" Luna asked.
"I fear this is the beginning of the end." Celestia replied solemnly.
After thinking for a moment, Luna said, "Perhaps it is merely the end of the beginning?"
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One by one the ponies tumbled into total darkness landing on a hard concrete floor. The smell of mold and stale air hung about them as a thunderstorm raged outside. Lightening flashing through a small window just above them, briefly revealing a dusty cluttered basement.
"Is everyone okay?" Apple Jack asked.
"I'm fine." Twilight replied, "Spike, you okay?"
"I'll live." He grumbled.
"Every pony else?" Twilight asked.
"I'm okay," Rainbow Dash announced.
"Same here," Rarity said.
"I'm all right." Fluttershy said.
"Pinkie?" Twilight called out, "Pinkie Pie, are you okay?"
Suddenly a light shined in the darkness, as Pinkie stood there with a flash light in her hand. "Look what I found?" She was in a human body, dressed in a pink T-shirt and a pair of blue skinny jeans and white tennis shoes.
"Never mind that!" Rainbow Dash, said jumping up as she looked over the pair of torn jeans and gray hooded sweat shirt she was wearing, "Look at us!"
"Blan sakes!" Apple Jack commented holding her hands out in front of her with a horrified expression, "What in the name of Celestia happened to my hooves?" Looking herself over, she saw she was dressed in jeans, work boots and a brown flannel with a white t-shirt underneath. Quickly snatching her cowboy hat off the floor she held it and asked in a panicked tone, "And where did these clothes come from?"
"Don't worry," Twilight commented, dusting off her purple tank top and jeans, "You get used to it."
Rarity examined the blue and white striped dress she was wearing, "Even in this form, I still look fabulous."
"Umm," Fluttershy said timidly from the darkness. "Could someone shine the light over here?"
Pinkie did as asked, revealing Fluttershy to be wearing a pair of tan knee high kakis with many pockets and yellow T-shirt and ankle high black boots. Upon seeing this, Fluttershy merely smiled and said, "I like it."
"What did that mirror do to us?" Rainbow Dash asked fearfully.
"It wasn't the mirror, it was a spell meant to help us fit in with the local population. We can change back at will, remember?" Twilight concentrated and in the blink of an eye she was her alicorn self, "See?"
"Perhaps maybe we should all return to our normal shape for the time being." Rarity suggested.
"I don't know if that is such a good idea," Twilight replied, shifting back, "One, we don't know what we are going to bump into here yet and two this place isn't exactly designed for ponies."
"Twilight has a point, ya'll." Apple Jack said in agreement, "Let's just roll with the punches until we get things a bit more squared away."
A loud crash of thunder outside caused them all to jump and whimper. When it had passed Twilight said, "We'd better go look around."
"Twilight, given how small I am, I'm a lot less noticeable then you all are. I could scout this place out and tell you if there is anything you need to worry about." Spike offered, with a hopeful expression.
"I'd rather my number one assistant stay with me, Spike." Twilight said, giving him a pat on the head, "Given what is going on, I want you nearby to help."
"Fine," Spike grumbled, with a displeased scowl, "More like you want to baby me again."
"All right," Twilight said, summoning her courage, "Let's head upstairs."
They walked up the old creaky wooden staircase entering a large kitchen that hadn't seen use in decades. The tile floor was cracked and the counter tops covered in brown grime. The stove was covered in some sort of black sludge which was also smeared over the front of the old refrigerator. Dirty pots and pans sat, abandoned in an empty sink and the cupboards were in horrific shape, with most of the doors missing. The entire place smelled of rot and mold as a large rat scampered across the floor disappearing into the darkness with an angry squeak.
"Ick," Rarity said looking it over, "This place is just simply ghastly."
"The rest of it might not be so bad." Twilight suggested, forcing a smile, "I hope."
On the first floor, they found a dining room, living room as well and what looked like a pantry and a study. All were in terrible condition. Several windows were broken, and the walls were covered in holes and spray painted with various names, expressions and tags of vandals who had visited over the years. Beer and liquor bottles and trash were scattered about everywhere from illicit parties as well as various odds and ends left by hobos that had taken up residence here and there over the years. The furniture was old, most of it mismatched pieces varying in color and style, and a great deal of it torn and stained from time and abuse.
As they explored the upstairs, they found six bedrooms, each with a modest bedroom set, seemingly untouched for decades. While five of the rooms were in reasonable condition, when they opened the door to the sixth one, they found water pouring from a massive hole where the ceiling had collapsed long ago.
"Looks like two ponies are going to have to share." Twilight said.
"I can share a room with Apple Jack." Rarity suggested and turning to the farm pony she asked, "You don't mind, do you?"
"Not one bit." Apple Jack replied.
"Whoa, hold on a second!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed horrified, "Please tell me we're not actually considering sleeping here?"
"Celestia said to use it as a base of operations." Twilight replied, as if settling the question.
"She can't be serious!" Rainbow Dash said with disbelief, "I mean this place is a total disaster!"
"It's really not so bad." Fluttershy commented, "I mean, it could be a whole lot worse."
"How?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"I have to agree with Rainbow Dash here," Rarity chimed in, "Celestia may have thought we could use this house, but it's obvious she had no idea what horrid condition it's in."
"Aw come on, this place looks like it is set up for Nightmare Night, and Nightmare Night means free candy. So it can't be that bad." Pinkie said cheerfully.
"Pinkie Pie," Rainbow Dash said, raising an eyebrow, "You are so random."
"Come on ya'll, I know it looks bad but nothin that can't be fixed. I bet if we work together we can get this place shined up like a new penny in no time!" Apple Jack said confidently.
"That sounds like a plan," Twilight replied, "but first I think we should get settled in and start fresh in the morning. I don't know about the rest of you but I didn't sleep much last night and two, I need to contact Princess Celestia and let her know we have arrived."
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A short time later, Pinkie Pie snored on a couch downstairs with Spike sound asleep on her chest as Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash started a small cleaning effort in the kitchen while talking about their new surroundings. In the master bedroom, Twilight talked with Flash Sentry over a small mirror as Apple Jack and Rarity headed into their selected room for the night.
As Rarity closed the door, Apple Jack said, "Now that I think about it, I betcha I can set up a nice work area for you in here."
"You're such a sweat heart, Darling." Rarity said, wrapping her arms around Apple Jack's waist and kissing her neck, "It's one of the reasons I love you."
"Con-sarn it, Rarity," Apple Jack said moving away, "Do you want the others to find out?"
"That we're special some ponies? Yes Apple Jack, want to tell the whole world how much I love you." Rarity said, with a starry eyed expression as she went on dramatically. "I want to proclaim it from the ramparts of Canterlot Castle for all of Equestria to hear."
"Think more practical like for once," Apple Jack said gently as she took her hands, "You know how ponies will react when they find out were keepin company."
"Oh Darling, I know how some ponies will have a problem with it, but I don't care." Rarity said cheerfully, "I only know that I am madly in love with you, to Tartarus with what other ponies think."
"Yes, and I love you too, but you know how my Earth Pony family is." Apple Jack replied ominously, "If they find out I'll be disowned!"
"How would they? Do you seriously think our best friends are going to tell if we ask them not too?" Rarity asked.
"I don't know, Twilight has a big mouth sometimes." Apple Jack replied.
"Pinkie Pie has helped her great deal with that." Rarity replied, moving closer, "Now Darling, I want to explore these new forms of ours," She said putting her hand on the Farm Pony's cheek, "I want to know every inch and curve of my beautiful farm girl," She kissed her, "It will be just like the first time, all over again."
"Cut it out," Apple Jack said anxiously, as she tried not to smile, "What if the others hear?"
"Sweetie Belle never did," Rarity replied as she started to kiss her hand working up her arm, "In fact, we've been sneaking around for over a month now and so far no pony has any idea."
Gasping as Rarity planted soft kisses on her skin, Apple Jack said, "Ponies feathers," and kissed the Fashionista passionately as they fell on the bed.
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The next morning, the sound of a weed whacker woke Daniel from his sleep. His head throbbing from his usual hang over, he rolled over in bed and peered out his bedroom window to see a young blonde woman in a cowboy hat clearing the weeds from around the old white farm house across from the one he lived in.
Reaching for his cell phone, he checked the time and seeing it was noon decided to get up. His small downstairs bedroom was a disaster, with dirty clothes laying everywhere. His chair and desk both buried in trash and old beer cans as an overflowing ash tray sat on his nightstand like some hideous monument to his new life. The small room reeked of dirty laundry and stale beer mixed with the stench of cigarettes and some other unidentifiable odors emanating from dirty dishes and old food containers.
He had been living there for six months having moved in a few months after a drunk driver had taken Lisa from him. After that, school, sports and life in general had seemed meaningless and he needed a change of scene. He had found one when Lisa's old college roommate and friend Sunset Shimmer offered to let him move in with her and her friends. With the large settlement he had received following the accident, he didn't really need to work and had more or less been drinking and smoking his life away. He had felt hollow and dead inside, like his heart had stopped but his body had yet to respond with the sweet oblivion of death. In the end, he was content to wallow in his despair like a ghost in this little remote country area far away from his old life that no long existed.
His hair was long now, reaching down to his shoulders. His face was pale and gaunt, bearing a brown un-kept beard as he rolled out of bed with a tired pained expression. Staggering around, he picked up a few pairs of jeans, sniffing each one to see which was cleanest. After selecting a passable pair, moved on to find a shirt while debating taking a shower, something that had become a Bi- weekly event.
Just as he found a shirt, he heard talking outside. Looking, he saw the woman who had been doing the weed eating talking to the caretaker Gus. He was an old local country bumpkin in a cowboy hat and jeans who drove an old white pickup truck that seemed about to die. Gus was contracted by Sunset and several other locals to take care of the yard work as well as serve as a basic handy man, seemingly able to fix anything. From what Daniel could hear, he was offering his services to the neighbor who had the thickest country accent Daniel had ever heard.
Losing interest as their conversation moved to a discussion about joys of manual labor and farm work, Daniel grabbed his pack of cigarettes from the night stand and decided to head to the kitchen to start his day. There, watching from the windows were his roommates Isaac and Taylor and his best friend James.
Isaac was a short thin man, with tan skin. Dressed like a hood rat, he wore low hanging pants that exposed his boxers, a black T-shirt with some sort of band logo on it and a backwards ball cap. Taylor, his girlfriend, was a short curvy girl with expensive taste in clothes. Her blonde hair was cut to the jaw line and her makeup was done exquisitely. She had been a work buddy of Sunset Shimmer's and the two had become fast friends. When Sunset Shimmer had decided to rent this house, she had decided to come as well, bringing Isaac along for the ride.
James was Daniel best friend whom he had met through Sunset Shimmer. He was a tall, thin man, with long red hair and a matching short neatly trimmed beard. He wearing his usual polo shirt and slacks, complete with dress shoes. No matter what was going on or the time of day, he always smelled of strong cologne something Daniel had yet to get used to, especially in close quarters. Since Daniel had moved in, James had made it his so called mission to get him on the road to recovery. That road being the pursuit of alcohol, pot and meaningless sex with as many women as possible. Daniel had wondered a few times if this was healthy, but Sunset Shimmer had assured him he just needed more time before he felt like moving forward with something practical. Given how he had felt, Daniel didn't argue.
Walking in, Daniel lit a cigarette and exhaling a long cloud of smoke asked, "What's going on?"
"We apparently have neighbors," James replied.
"I didn't even see a moving truck," Taylor commented, "It's almost as if they just showed up here last night during the storm."
"Maybe they're aliens?" Isaac joked.
"Looking at their hair and eyes, I'd almost believe that." Taylor commented.
"If those are aliens," James said looking out the window at Rarity as she swept the ponies' front porch, "Beam me up, Scotty."
Taylor rolled her blue eyes, "Don't you think about anything else besides getting laid?"
James smiled smugly, "What else is there worth thinking about?"
Taylor rolled her eyes and said, "Pig,"
The sound of footsteps signaled the arrival of Sunset Shimmer and her boyfriend Mark. She was dressed red and yellow shirt and black skinny jeans, with a pair of women's dock martens on her feet.
Mark towered over her, reaching six foot six. He had Red-ish brown hair and was dressed in a pair of faded jeans and a sleeveless black T-shirt which showed off his powerful build. Off of his hip hung a large hatch back knife, which he never was without. Of all the people in the house, Mark was the one Daniel liked the least, believing him to be a total Sociopath. While the two had butted heads from time to time, Daniel had done his best to keep the peace for Sunset Shimmer's sake. Mark on the other hand seemed to be under the delusion that Daniel was somehow one of his closest friends and he was found of informing him of every sick and twisted thing that entered his mind.
"Check out the new neighbors," Mark said looking out the window.
Upon seeing them, Sunset Shimmer beamed and said, "Wait here a sec." and quickly moved towards the front door.
:"Where are you going?" Mark asked.
"To say hello to an old friend," She replied quickly, as she rushed out of the house.
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Sunset Shimmer walked down the walk way and across the yard with an overjoyed expression. Upon seeing her, Twilight walked out to meet her half way, with Spike following close behind.
"Twilight, it's so good to see you again. "Sunset Shimmer greeted, giving her a hug, "I must admit, seeing you here is happy surprise."
Caught off guard by such a friendly greeting, Twilight gave her a confused look and said, "Huh?"
"You must have threatened Celestia's fragile ego so she pushed you away." She replied, in a knowing way, "I am so glad you came to me afterwards. Believe me, I know how hard it is, but I can help you through it."
"Sunset Shimmer, I don't know what you are talking about, but I am here to place you under arrest and bring you back to Equestria. There, you will face trial for High Treason and use of dark magic." Twilight informed her grimly.
Sunset Shimmer laughed "you can't be serious?"
"I am," Twilight replied solemnly, "Now we can spare ourselves a lot of misery if you'll just come quietly. Otherwise, I'll have to take you by force."
Sunset Shimmer laughed hard at that, "You and what army? You're friends? You ponies won't last a week in this world on your own."
"I defeated you once before." Twilight countered.
"That was high school, Twilight. This is the real world and here you and your friends are nothing more than fish out of water." Sunset Shimmer replied flatly. "Without my help, Earth will eat you alive which is the reason why Celestia sent you here. Despite what she may have told you, you're on Earth because Princess Insecuria can't stand to have you in Equestria anymore. Now please, let's end this foolishness, we're friends after all. I know this is hard for you to hear, but I wouldn't be a good friend if I kept the truth from you. Believe me, once you know what I know, you'll see things my way. With your help, together we can make a real difference for every pony in Equestria."
Twilight paused for a moment and then asked,"What happened to you Sunset? I left you in good hands and you were doing so well. Why didn't you continue to embrace the magic of friendship?"
"I did and it was wonderful, but High school ends eventually, Twilight. After graduation, while we try to stay in touch, they went their ways and I went mine. My way led me on a path of discovery about both myself and the truth about our so called mentor. Please, come with me there is someone you just have to meet who will explain everything."
"What do you mean?" Twilight asked, "The Dark power you've allied yourself with?"
"No, another student Celestia drove away," Seeing Twilight's puzzled expression Sunset Shimmer asked, "Do you think you're the second student of hers?" Her eyes widened, "Oh my God, you do, don't you? Well unbeknownst to you, Celestia has trained many students. Each time one becomes too powerful for her fragile ego she drives them off. She even turned on her own sister when Luna finally came into her own."
"You're lying." Twilight said angrily.
"Am I?" Sunset Shimmer said in a knowing manner, "Don't worry, time will prove I am telling the truth. Celestia is all love and kindness until you show her up and then she reveals her true colors. When she does ponies always get hurt."
- "I won't listen to these lies! "Twilight said sharply, "Now are you going to come with me not?"
Sunset Shimmer raised her hands and said,"Fine, don't believe me, but you'll find out soon enough what Celestia is really like." She turned to go,"You can try and make a futile attempt to apprehend me, but you won't succeed. And don't worry, no matter how long it takes or what happens,\ I won't hold a grudge. The moment you see the light I'll be waiting with open arms.
As she walked away Spike asked, "What was that all about?"
Looking down at him with a mixture of confusion and concern, Twilight said, "I wish I knew."
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A short while later Sunset Shimmer was sitting on her and Mark's bed in the master bedroom talking on her cell phone. Mark sat behind her watching with an indulgent expression.
"Yes," she paused, "Last night," She smiled with nervous eyes and said, "Uh huh, don't worry I'll handle it. Besides, it won't take long for her to see the light now that she is away from Celestia." She nodded and said, "Yep, talk to you soon," and hung up.
"I still don't see what the big deal is," Mark said, as she put her phone down..
"The big deal is Twilight has a habit of interfering. I told you what happened in high school." Sunset Shimmer replied.
"Yes, but this isn't high school," Mark countered, "If she tries anything we'll make short work of her."
Summoning her magic, Sunset Shimmer extended her hand and pulled a small lock box from front under the foot of the bed and brought it to her. Opening it, she revealed six spheres of stone, five glowing with a crimson red light. "The elements of Strife: Despair, Deceit, Betrayal, Cruelty and Selfishness. Their almost complete and will form the sixth element of Dark Magic. Then, with that power in our hands, Hydia and I will finally be able put that control freak Celestia in her place."
"All of which you have told me before," Mark commented, "So, where's the hang up?"
"Twilight's timing couldn't be worse, if she learns what we are doing, it could spoil everything." Sunset Shimmer replied.
Mark chuckled, "how? I mean she looks pretty harmless to me."
"Don't under estimate her, just because she is a pony." Sunset Shimmer said warily.
"Speaking of your race," Mark put his hands on her shoulders and started giving her a massage, "Do all ponies worry this much, or just my girlfriend? " She closed her eyes as a euphoric smile crept across her face. His breath moved over her the back of her neck as he said confidently,"If they cause a problem," He kissed her on the ear, "we'll deal with it."
Turning, Sunset Shimmer grinned and gestured him forward with her finger, "Come here."
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That evening, Twilight had them all assemble in the living room for a meeting. After they took their seats, she said in a chipper voice, "First off, I just want to say the house looks much better than it did when we first arrived."
"I'll say," Apple Jack commented, "At least now it's somewhat livable. It'll still take some time to patch up the holes and get rid of all that graffiti, but it's coming along nicely."
"Excellent," She turned to Rarity, "How did the inventory go?"
"Very well," Rarity replied, "In fact, when I was going through the basement I came across a lucky find. I found some note books explaining much about how things work in the Earth realm and thankfully a chest of bits as well as some human money. It turns out; we're in a rural area, just a few minutes from a small town named Oaksville. The house we live in was apparently an old farm house built nearly a hundred years go by a group of humans called the Williams family. The house across the front yard was built later as the family grew and didn't want to split up. Apparently, Celestia bought this one from them to establish an outpost. The other has been rented out ever since the family relocated further out of town.
There is park next door. Once I was sure I had a lay out of the land I followed a map through the woods out back to the park and a pay phone. I contacted something called the power company. We should have lights and water by tomorrow." She then started handing out pieces of paper, "These have the house address on them, in case you need it."
"Excellent work, Rarity," Twilight began and then turned to Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash "How did it go with that old Vehicle out back?"
"Well, it's called a Van," Rainbow Dash explained, "I found the keys in the kitchen closet. I then used a notebook Rarity found to figure out how it worked and with a little mechanical know how managed to get it started."
"Do you think you can operate it?" Twilight asked.
"It doesn't seem that hard Twilight, though I think we might need to practice a bit first." Fluttershy said.
"Fantastic." Twilight said cheerfully, "Looks like we're off to a great start then."
"How did it go with Sunset Shimmer?" Rarity asked.
"Not well," Twilight replied, "She refused to come quietly and I still have no idea what she is up too."
"What are we going to do about that, Sugar Cube?" Apple Jack asked.
"Maybe we if go over there and ask her again, really, really, really nice and bring some cupcakes she might change her mind?" Pinkie Pie suggested.
"I don't think that will work." Twilight replied grimly.
"Then we go over there and drag her back kicking and screaming." Rainbow Dash said brashly.
"Until we have a better idea of what is going on its too dangerous," Twilight replied, "For now, all we can do is wait until we learn more."
"I have an idea!" Spike said excitedly, "Everyone but Sunset Shimmer thinks I am a dog, right?"
"As far as we know," Twilight replied.
"Well, tomorrow morning why don't I go over there and snoop around?" Spike suggested.
Twilight shook her head, "Out of the question."
"Come on Twilight, as far as the humans are concerned I am just a stupid animal who can't even talk. As long as I keep away from Sunset Shimmer I should be fine." Spike argued.
"It's too dangerous, Spike." Twilight said flatly, "I am not going to argue with you about this."
Spike scowled, "I thought we agreed you weren't going to baby me so much anymore?"
"I am not babying you." Twilight replied heatedly, "Until we know what's going on it's too dangerous for any of us to set hoof near there."
"Unfortunately Twilight, unless one of us takes a risk to find out what she's up too it's going to continue to be that way." Rarity pointed out, "I don't like it either, but Spikey-Wikey's plan is our best option as far as I can see. If we continue to sit and wait by the time we find out what is going on may be too late."
"Come on Twilight, let me do this." Spike pleaded, "I promise, I'll be careful."
Twilight sat silently mulling over what Rarity had said. As much as she hated it, she knew her friend was right. If they continued to wait passively by the time they finally discovered what Sunset Shimmer's plan was, it would be when Equestria was invaded. If they were going to discover what it was and stop her before that it was going to take risks. While she didn't like the thought of putting any of her friends in harm's way, she didn't have a choice. After a few more moments of silence Twilight sighed and said, "Fine," She gave him a stern look, "but you don't leave my sight while you're over there."
"I won't I promise!" Spike said, wagging his tail enthusiastically, "You won't regret this, Twilight!"
Scratching him behind the ears she said, "I know I won't," and then thought silently, I hope.
TO BE CONTINUED…