My Little Pony: Friendship is Light

by Harrisonhearts

Join Fire Rose and her friends in the beautiful land of Coltnelia as they journey together in the land of light to learn all different lessons of friendship, go on dangerous adventures, and learn a thing or two about themselves. It's a special kind of friendship adventure in a whole different world with a whole different Mane 6.

1. Friendship is Light - Part 1

Once upon a time in the land of Coltnelia…

The land was filled with light and peace. And the light came from the magic of ten crystals. Each sitting in their own altars in different corners of Coltnelia. Not only did they shine with light to bring the peace and happiness, but their magic also controlled the elements of the world. The Sun and Moon Crystals allow the sun and moon respectively to rise and set, the Magic Crystal allowed Unicorns to cast magic, the Fire Crystal controlled the fire element, the Wind Crystal allowed wind to blow, the Earth Crystal allowed the earth of the land to remain stable and not let too many earthquakes happen, the Ice Crystal controlled the ice element, the Water Crystal controlled the Water element, and the Plant Crystal allowed plants and trees to grow. The tenth crystal, however, remains a mystery. As nopony but two ponies remember what it is and what power it held.

With such a great magic and power that comes from these crystals, the great wizard, Orb Sah, who watched over the Crystals, had ordered that each Crystal would be protected by a kingdom. And each kingdom would have a Queen that would have the magic and powers given to them by their respective Crystals. Their magic would allow them to become the magical ponies of pure light, Fairy Alicorns. And as soon as his order was given, ten kingdoms were formed in the corners of Coltnelia. Each kingdom being named after their Crystals. The first two Queens of Coltnelia were Orb Sah's apprentices, Sol and Lua. Both becoming the Queens of the Sun and Moon Kingdoms respectively. Both Kingdoms were set in the center of the land on top of two big mountains.

The other Queens came to rule their kingdoms and protect their Crystals with all their power. They ruled their kingdoms with pure hearts and kind souls. Queens have come and gone. But no matter which Queen ruled what kingdom, the two sisters, Queen Sol and Queen Lua, worked together with each Queen to protect the land of Coltnelia and its light from all sorts of wicked forces. Like the Dark Ponies and many others.

Sadly, the true light of Coltnelia had not stayed forever. As one day, the tenth kingdom that protected the lost Crystal had fallen. And it's Crystal was lost. All that remained were ruins of that kingdom and the Queen was nowhere to be found. It was a sad day for many ponies in that time. Especially for Queens Sol and Lua.

Shortly after, they discovered six powerful crystals that held a very powerful magic. When their magic combined, they created a power that mirrored that of the true light of Coltnelia itself. These six crystals, which bonded with the two sisters, held a great power that no other pony could possess. A power of true light. With this discovery, Sol and Lua used the magic of these crystals to defend Coltnelia from the many evil forces that would come threatened the peaceful land. Including the Dark Ponies. As time went on, the crystals were given the name the Crystals of Harmony. And they were indeed magical. Magical enough to keep any darkness at bay. Or so they thought.

Unfortunately, Sol and Lua couldn't rely on the Crystals of Harmony forever. For one day, in a great battle against the Dark Ponies, evil ponies with hearts of pure darkness that come from the dark land below Coltnelia, Queens Sol and Lua teamed up with a group of creatures known as the Elemental Amulet Wizards, lead by Redclaw the Flaming Inferno, to defeat the Dark Ponies once and for all. Sol and Lua used all the power they could use from the Crystals of Harmony and Redclaw and his group did the same with their amulets. The battle was won. And the Dark Ponies were banished back to their land. But sadly, the Crystals of Harmony disappeared after Sol and Lua used all their power and they were lost just like the tenth lost Crystal. Now they had no power that mirrored the true light of Coltnelia that could help them in great battles or if the Dark Ponies were to return. It didn't help with the fact that since the light of Coltnelia was incomplete, there was nothing that could keep the Dark Ponies from coming back. So Queens Sol and Lua requested that all the Queens of Coltnelia would work together to use their respective Crystals to create a barrier to keep the Dark Ponies from ever entering Coltnelia again. Sadly, because not every Crystal had been used to create the barrier, Sol and Lua fear that it may not last forever. And they had feared for more than a thousand years about what would happen if the barrier one day disappeared and the true light never returned.

A thousand years have passed since then and the light of Coltnelia had still been incomplete. Queens Sol and Lua watched as new Queens came and went. Now a new generation of Queens rule the land with pure hearts of light just as the many previous Queens did. Among those Queens was Queen Cherry Fire. The Queen of the Fire Kingdom. She had become the Queen of the Fire Kingdom at a very young age. And she had married a stallion named Astral Flash, who became the King of the Fire Kingdom. The two had two twin daughters as years went by. Among those daughters was a young Princess named Fire Rose. The Princess of the Fire Kingdom.

My Little Pony: Friendship is Light

Friendship is Light – Part 1

High in the two mountains at the center of Coltnelia, there were two kingdoms that protected two of the Crystals. We come to one of those kingdoms called the Sun Kingdom. Ruled by Queen Sol, the Queen of the Sun and guardian of the Sun Crystal. The Sun Kingdom was like many other kingdoms and was as large as a country. Many villages and towns were had sun-themed names and the longest day of the year is always celebrated here. Among many places in this lovely kingdom, there's one where our story begins at. The Academy of Proficient Unicorns. An academy in which many talented Unicorns go to learn magic and many other things.

The academy has had many students throughout the years. Most of them getting in at the ages of 11 or 12. But the youngest one to attend the academy was Princess Fire Rose. The Princess of the Fire Kingdom. She had gotten in the academy at the incredible young age of 8. Although it was a surprise to her as well. For not only did she get in the academy, she had become the protégé of the two sisters, Queen Sol and Queen Lua, themselves. As years went by, and Rose got older, she had learned many things about light, magic, history and other things under the wings of the two sisters. Along with assistance from Fire Rose's conscience, Cricket the Dragon, Rose has become a top student of Sol and Lua. Despite how proud they are of her; Sol and Lua have noticed many flaws with their protégé. And this is where the story now begins.

The Sun Kingdom…

Years have passed since she got in the academy and Rose and her conscience and assistant, Cricket, were walking through Daylight, the large capital city that surrounded the castle of the Sun Kingdom. Rose and Cricket had gotten back from the library and were now on their way back to the academy to resume studying. Rose and Cricket had just gotten back to the Sun Kingdom after a little adventure involving other-worldly travel*. Fire Rose was a dark red-coated Unicorn with a dark brown bun-styled mane and a brown tail. She was dressed in a black bodice over a gray long-sleeved calf-length frock with a white petticoat. She had white eyes and a feather pen as her Cutie Mark. Cricket was a little dragon that was the size of a baby dragon, but isn't actually a baby dragon, and had light-green scales and had a normal green underbelly as well as orange spikes. He was wearing a black formal coat with an orange vest with a single button on front, a white short sleeve button shirt underneath and a yellow tie on the collar. He was also wearing a light blue formal hat with orange linings and was carrying a red umbrella.

(*The Other Mane 6 episode from My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic – The Team Light Chronicles)

"With the books we got today," Cricket said as they walked, "I'm sure you'll be able to figure out how to perfect the Teleport spell. That's the one you're always having trouble on."

"I think so too." Rose replied, "But most of these are for the final test before the break. I'm going to spend the next week preparing for that test so I can impress the Two Sisters and… maybe… you know who."

"Golly Rose." Cricket said as he saw the number of books they got, "You're going to spend an entire week on those books. You're going to exhaust yourself if you don't take enough breaks."

"I can't afford to waste a minute." Fire Rose replied, "If I'm going to take this test and be able to pass, I need to prepare myself for everything that'll most likely be on there."

"But Rose." Cricket argued, "Don't you know what's happening for the whole week? It's the –"

"Hey Rose!" A voice exclaimed.

"Huh?" Rose said as she looked ahead.

"Well, what do you know?" Cricket said as he saw who it was.

A few ponies that Rose recognized were coming toward her and Cricket with some saddle bags on their backs and smiles on their faces.

"Looks like your classmates are getting some fresh air too." Cricket commented, "It is a nice day after all."

"Hey Rose." A mare said as she and the others came up to her, "We've been looking for you."

"Hi everypony." Fire Rose said as she began to look shy, "N-n-nice da…..e…av…g."

"Eh…" A stallion said as he wondered what she said, "What'd you say?"

"Ni…..ay…we'….ving…." Rose whispered in a shy tone again.

"I think what she's saying is," Cricket explained, "Lovely weather today."

"Yeah." The stallion replied, "Beautiful."

"Anyway," The mare began, "Rose. Guess what's happening this week!"

"What?" Rose asked.

"This week," the mare explained, "For the entire week, the Secretariat Comet is passing by."

"The Secretariat Comet?" Rose asked.

"Wait." The stallion said, "You know what it is, right?"

Unfortunately, Rose actually didn't know what the comet was and felt a little nervous to admit the truth. So she was at a point where she couldn't speak.

"Of course we know what it is." Cricket answered, "The Secretariat Comet is a comet that passes over Coltnelia and is visible at night. Whenever the comet passes over, the magical powers of all magic beings would increase by tremendous amounts."

"And it's going to start passing over tonight." The other mare said, "We're going to find a perfect spot to watch it."

"We're going now so nopony else can take that spot." The stallion added, "Wanna come with us?"

"It might be outside of the capital city," The other mare explained, "So we'll be out of the city's walls. But I know a spot where we won't be hurt and we can get a good look at the comet."

"Come on Rose!" The first mare cheered, "Let's go! It'll be fun!"

"You're going tonight?" Rose yelped, "But our final test is next week. You all should be studying for it."

"It's only a week away." The second mare replied, "We've got time. Plus, I studied for some of it this morning. Besides, we can study while we wait for the comet."

"But we need a break." The first mare added, "And this comet sighting is just what the doctor ordered."

"Come on with us Rose." The stallion pleaded, "Don't you want to feel how your magic will feel?"

"I… I…" Rose replied as she began to look shy again, "I….. ca…."

"What?" The first mare asked, "What'd you say?"

"I….n't…"

"Speak up." The second mare said, "Do you want to come or not?"

"I can't go tonight." Rose finally spoke up.

"Huh?" The three ponies yelped.

"Maybe tomorrow night then?" The stallion asked, "It's going to be flying through the night sky for the whole week."

"Not then either." Rose answered, "I'm going to spend the next week preparing for the test."

"All week?" The first mare asked, "Okay. How about you take a break at some point and –"

"I'm not going to take breaks." Rose interrupted, "I don't want to fail this final test. I have to take whatever time I have this week to get ready for it. And if you all don't want to fail either, you all would put more time in studying too."

"We are studying." The stallion replied, "But like we said, the test is next week. Are you really just going to stay up in your room and do nothing by study, study, study?"

"Yes I am." Rose answered, "Thank you for inviting me. But I don't have time to goof off. I need to go back to my room and get started. Come on Cricket." Rose finished as she continued walking.

"Wait for me Rose!" Cricket said as he followed.

"Come on Fire Rose!" The first mare begged, "Don't be like how you usually are! You never join any of us to do anything fun! All you do is study and practice magic! And whenever you're not doing that, you keep yourself in your room doing nothing!"

"Please don't be disappointed." Rose said as she looked back at them, "But it's way too important that I don't fail."

"Rose!" The second mare yelled, "Come on!"

"Forget about her." The stallion said while looking a bit unhappy, "She doesn't know what she's missing. Let's go get our spot before somepony else does."

"I feel sorry for her." The first mare commented as they continued walking.

"Me too." The second mare added, "I wish she would do something other than study for tests or magic."

Later, back in Fire Rose's room…

Rose began doing what she promised and began going through the books that would involve the final test she mentioned before. The first book she was going through was the History of Coltnelia. She went through what she believed to be the most important parts that she needed to remember. And went over each of them multiple times.

"The Kingdoms were forged by the power of the Crystals," Rose read as she took some notes, "To provide much better protection of the Crystals and the light…"

"You know my Princess." Cricket said as he took notes about the day they were having, "I truly do think you should've accepted their offer and go with them to watch the comet. I haven't seen in for myself," He continued as he smiled at the thought, "But I hear it's a sight that's soothing for the eye."

"Cricket." Rose replied as she peeked at other books she had opened, "I've already made up my mind. No goofing off this week. I've got my studies for the final test, I've got some spells I need to perfect, not to mention that I've got to finish up the next storybook for Buttercup." She then peeked over at Cricket and asked, "By the way, you've been taking notes. Right?"

"Every single thing we did today is dearly noted my dear." Cricket assured as he finished putting a period on his notes.

"Good." Rose replied with a smile of relief, "Thank you."

"Anything to help you with your next book." Cricket replied, "By the way, have you given it any thought as to branch out your stories to other ponies? You're writing has gotten better and I think it should be time to show your true talent to everypony."

"We've been over this Cricket." Rose replied as she got back to her books, "I… I just can't let anypony know about my stories. You know why I can't risk that."

"But I'm sure if you just explain…" Cricket began.

"I'm sorry Cricket." Rose interrupted, "But I just don't feel comfortable. It's okay for Buttercup since she only reads my books to foals in Sunrise Village. But for anypony else, if so much as one pony reads my story, I think I'll faint. Or worse."

"I just hope one of these days, you'll learn that this kind of talent shouldn't be kept secret." Cricket said, "Think about what your grandmother would say if she were here."

"She did always say," Rose replied as she looked at her quill pen, "That I have an amazing talent for writing. She did encourage me to show my stories to everypony one day. But…" Her eyes quivered as she looked at the pen. But wanting to focus back on studying and soon practicing magic, Rose fought back her feelings and said, "Anyway, I need to focus. Cricket, could you be a dear and set up my other desk so I can be ready to write? And after that, would you write to Buttercup to tell her that the next book is almost ready."

"As you wish my dear." Cricket replied as he went to do as she said, "Just let me give you on piece of advice as your conscience. You care about friendship, don't you?"

"Of course I do." Fire Rose answered, "More than anything."

"If that's for sure," Cricket said as he started preparing her other desk, "I think you should start getting out more. It's healthy for the mind you know. There are other ponies besides your friends from the other kingdoms you know. Maybe, if you ask me, you can join with another student to help each other study if you're going to study all week."

"I know." Rose replied as she leaned her head down, "I'm sorry. I just really want to prove myself by preparing for this test by myself. I already failed to try and succeed in something by myself recently*. I have to prove I can do it on my own this time."

(*The Other Mane 6 episode in My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic – The Team Light Chronicles)

"Just keep it in mind, alright?" Cricket asked.

Cricket did as he was politely told and got the desk ready for Rose to continue writing her story. He dusted the top and dusted the book Rose was writing. He put a comfortable pillow for Rose to sit on the chair. And after preparing the ink in the vile and getting a sharp quill for Rose to use, Cricket then immediately got to writing a letter to Buttercup. The letter said the following.

Dear Buttercup,

I'm writing to you to let you know that my next book is almost complete. Be sure to let the foals know about this. I've got a few things on my agenda right now, but I'm not letting them slow me down. The book should be ready in a day or two.

Sincerely, Fire Rose.

P.S., Written by Cricket the Dragon.

Once the letter was written, rolled up into a scroll, and tied with a bow, Cricket used his magic fire breath to Buttercup at her home.

"All done, Your Highness." Cricket said as he turned to Fire Rose, "Desk is ready, and letter is sent. You're free to get started when you're ready."

"Thank you Cricket." Rose thanked as she stood up, "Perhaps I should take a few moments to continue writing while I've got the time."

"Would you like me to get you something to eat or drink?" Cricket politely asked while Rose got to her book.

"I'm good." Rose answered, "Thank you for asking. Why don't you rest for a bit?"

"Alright." Cricket replied, "I'll let you get to it."

Feeling glad to have helped out, Cricket lied down on Rose's bed to rest just as the Fire Princess requested. Meanwhile, Fire Rose got to writing her book and looked at the notes she and Cricket took today as an inspiration for the story.

"I think after I work on this for a bit," Rose said to herself, "I'll work a bit on my magic. I have a good feeling about that one mustache spell. Now then," She said as she looked at her book and notes, "Last time I left off, the young foal was given the request of retrieving the Sun Stone from the treacherous Moon Ruler. Today," She said as she looked at her notes, "Cricket and I went to get some books. So for this next part, I'll maybe have her try to collect magical scrolls with great knowledge that will –" She said as she wrote in her book before.

Knock, knock.

"Huh?" Rose said as she turned to her door.

The sound came from her door and it was two knocks and a way to tell that someone was waiting outside for her to answer.

"I wonder who that could be." Rose said as she got up.

She got to her door, and opened it with her magic. Behind the door were four members of the royal guard for the Sun Kingdom. Lead by the captain of the kingdom's guard, Shining Glory. A golden green-coated Unicorn stallion with blue eyes, armor that shows his role as Captain, and a black mane and tail.

"Princess." Shining Glory greeted, "A pleasure to see you again, Your Highness."

"Shining Glory?" Fire Rose asked, "Can I help you with something?"

"That you can." Shining Glory answered, "I came here to escort you to the Sun Castle. The Two Sisters request your presence there."

"The Two Sisters?" Fire Rose asked while looking a little worried, "What for?"

"I've only been given my orders." Shining Glory replied, "If you would be so kind as to join us in the carriage. My men here will protect you as always."

"Is it absolutely necessary for me to be there?" Fire Rose asked, "I do have a lot on my schedule today."

"They requested you at the castle this instant." Shining Glory answered, "So I wouldn't keep them waiting if I were you."

"You're right." Rose replied, "Come on Cricket." She said as she turned to him, "Let's go see what they want to talk about."

"Oh boy." Cricket said as he grabbed his hat and umbrella and quickly got on Rose's back, "It's been a while since we've been in the castle. I can't wait to see what Queen Sol and Lua want."

Rose did as she was requested and let Shining Glory and his men escort her to the castle of the Sun Kingdom in a carriage. The trip was not too long as the city of Daylight was near the castle.

When they arrived, Rose noticed something going on inside of the castle through the windows. It seemed like a party was going on or something rambunctious as the commotion was going on without rest. The carriage stopped right in front of the entrance to the castle and Rose was helped out by one of the guards.

"This way, Your Majesty." Shining Glory said as he guided Rose and the guards inside.

They entered the castle and Rose discovered that the commotion was that ponies all over the castle were preparing for something. Special refreshments were being prepared, gifts were being wrapped, dresses for mares were being made, musical ponies were practicing their instruments, many things were happening.

"Golly." Cricket said as he looked around the castle while the walking continued, "This place is never usually this jumpy."

"I wonder what all the preparing is about." Fire Rose wondered, "Maybe it's somepony's birthday."

"Maybe this is what the Two Sisters want to talk to you about." Cricket suggested.

"I sure hope so." Fire Rose said as she got nervous, "Because if it's something that I'm thinking about, I think I'm going to faint."

They entered the Audience Chamber, which was much larger than the one in the castle of the Magic Kingdom, and they found Queen Sol and her sister Queen Lua conversing with a chef pony about a large cake. Queen Sol was a large Fairy Alicorn with a long mane and big tail that glowed with a bright light. Her coat light yellow and glass slippers golden. And a tall crown sat on top of her head. Her Cutie Mark represented her role as keeper of the Sun Crystal. Meanwhile, her sister Queen Lua was also large but shorter than her older sister. She had a dark-colored coat with a mane and tail that glowed like they were the night sky. She too wore a tall crown on her head as well as blue slippers on her four hooves. Her Cutie Mark represented her role as keeper of the Moon Crystal.

"Twenty lairs seems a bit much." The chef said as she and a few others tried to keep the cake from tipping over, "Don't you think?"

"With this occasion?" Queen Lua replied, "We dare say that nothing less would do."

"My sister's right." Queen Sol added, "I know it must've taken a bit out of all of you. But we want our presentation to be a wonderful one. After all, tomorrow is a joyous day."

"It could use a bit more frosting though." Queen Lua suggested, "Thy cake doesn't seem pleasing enough."

"We ran out of frosting." The chef replied, "Apparently, one of the ponies who volunteered wanted to give frosting as a gift."

"We'll request to get you some more." Queen Sol said with a smile, "Until then, just make sure it doesn't get hurt."

"As you wish, Your Majesties." The chef pony said with a bow, "Come ladies. Let's get this back in the kitchen."

While making sure that the cake doesn't tip, the chef pony and her assistants left the scene and headed back to the kitchen. It was at that moment, Shining Glory decided to announce his completed quest.

"Your Majesties." Shining Glory said with a bow, "The Princess of Fire has arrived just as you requested."

Queen Sol and Lua turned to the group and saw Fire Rose and Cricket being guarded by the royal guards. Happy to see her, they prepared themselves to give the news.

"Thank you." Queen Sol thanked, "Guards, return to your duties."

"Yes, Your Majesty!" The guards replied with loud tones.

The guards went back to their positions in the Audience Chamber and Shining Glory stood back up.

"Your Majesties." Fire Rose began with a bow, "It's an honor to be summoned here. What do I owe this summon?"

"And I was wondering as well, uh, Your Majesties," Cricket added as he bowed to them as well, "What's all the preparing for? Is there a birthday coming up?"

"Bows are unnecessary Fire Rose." Queen Lua replied, "Thy are a Princess. Thee should not have to threat fellow royal ponies so formally."

"I haven't done anything wrong, have I?" Fire Rose asked as she stood up, "Because if I have, I'll atone for it immediately."

"You have done nothing wrong my dear student." Queen Sol replied with a smile and nodded no, "We summoned you here because of a letter we received."

"This letter to be exact." Queen Lua added as she used her magic to make the letter appear, "It's from the Wind Kingdom." She then brought the letter over to Fire Rose and gave it to her, "Please read it aloud."

Fire Rose used her magic to open the letter, unfolded the paper, and read what was on the page.

Come one, come all. Requested by Queen Lucy Twirl and King Star Chaser, come celebrate the birth of their 20th child. All Kingdoms and their rulers are requested to come celebrate this joyous occasion and witness the three gifts given to this new born by the three Good Fairy Alicorns, Ruby Harmony, Sapphire Moonlight, and Emerald Dream. Gifts are not necessary but are recommended. But what is necessary is that you bring your love and heart to welcome the new member of the royal family and to all of Coltnelia and to congratulate the large family that has received this new family member. The celebration begins at the end of the week at noon. Don't be late.

"A new born baby?" Fire Rose asked with a smile.

"The 20th child of Queen Lucy Twirl and King Star Chaser?" Cricket asked as he nearly felt dizzy, "Gosh. I feel old just by saying that."

"We thought thy kind keeps thy youth until thee are 800." Queen Lua teased.

"Well, maybe." Cricket replied, "But still… when time flies this quickly, you start to realize how much you've really grown."

"So this is what all the preparing is about." Fire Rose said as she turned to her teachers, "You're preparing for the celebration of the new born."

"That's right." Queen Sol replied, "And we're making sure that we come with the best gifts that a new born could ever want."

"And the best food and music to impress the lucky parents to be gifted with this new foal." Queen Lua added, "But out of all the things we have to bring tomorrow, we still are missing on thing."

"What's that?" Fire Rose asked, "Is that why you summoned me?"

"It's exactly why we summoned you here actually." Queen Sol replied with a smile, "For we have a very special request for you."

"Y-Yes?" Fire Rose said as she leaned in, "What is the request?"

"Princess Fire Rose." Queen Sol began, "Our request to you that will make our congratulations to the Queen and King complete is…"

"Please don't let me fail, please don't let me fail!" Fire Rose pleaded in her head.

"For you to be by our side and we welcome the newborn!" Queen Sol finished with a cheer.

"Huh?" Fire Rose said with a surprised expression, "W-what did you say?"

"Our request is that thee stand by our side as we welcome the newborn." Queen Lua answered.

"Stand…. By your side?" Fire Rose asked as she didn't exactly know how to feel about the request, "Me?"

"Of course you." Queen Sol answered with a nod, "We've made a list and checked it twice. And out of all the students in the Academy of Proficient Unicorns, you have become one of the best students the academy has ever had in years. High scores and grades, outstanding magic, and dedication to learn everything there is to magic."

"Granted," Queen Lua added, "There are still things that thee need to improve on like a few spells thee have yet to master and learning to work with others a bit more. But nonetheless, thee have proven thee self to be a top student at the academy. And we'd be more than honored if thee would stand with us at the celebration."

"And Cricket," Queen Sol said as she looked toward him, "We'd like you to join us too."

"M-me?" Cricket stammered.

"Yes." Queen Lua replied, "After all, the assistant should get just as much credit as the pony he assists. It's only fair."

"Would you like to join us Cricket?" Queen Sol asked as she leaned toward Cricket.

Queen Sol smiled brightly at Cricket as Cricket looked at her sparkly eyes and golden waving mane. It wasn't often he was given such an opportunity from a Queen of Coltnelia. Let alone one of the Two Sisters. Turning red on his face, Cricket smiled and decided to take this chance.

"Well…" Cricket began as he looked into Queen Sol's eyes with a smile, "Uh-huh." He finished with a nod.

"I thought you would." Queen Sol chuckled.

Queen Lua then noticed Rose's face and asked, "Thy face. We don't know how to make of it. Care to share thy feelings towards this great honor?"

"Well… I…" Fire Rose began as she tried to think about her words, "I…"

"You're speechless I see." Queen Sol suggested, "No surprise there. I remember feeling like that when our old master told us that we would be Queens of our own Kingdoms."

"Please do not stall." Queen Lua said, "Please accept this request thy have been given. It would be an honor if thee join us."

"I'm… very honored that you would choose me." Princess Fire Rose finally said, "I'm very happy about that."

The Two Sisters smiled at each other as soon as Rose gave her statement.

"But I have to decline." Rose added at the end.

"What?!" The Two Sisters exclaimed loudly.

"Yes." Cricket said with his heavenly voice, "We have to – What?!" He exclaimed as soon as he realized what Rose said, "Rose?! What did you say?!" He asked as he turned to her quickly.

"I'm sorry." Fire Rose apologized, "But I can't be by your side for the welcoming."

"Are you hoping to do something else at the celebration?" Queen Sol asked curiously.

"No." Fire Rose declined, "I mean I'm not going to the celebration. I'm staying here."

"What?!" Cricket and the Two Sisters exclaimed.

"Stay here?!" Cricket exclaimed, "Do you even hear yourself right now?! Rose, you can't be serious!"

"I am serious." Rose answered, "I need to stay here and miss the celebration of the newborn."

"Princess," Queen Lua said with a surprised expression, "Surely thee jest!"

"I'm not." Fire Rose replied.

"hmph…." Cricket huffed as he got angry at Rose's decision, "Now listen here young lady!" He yelled as he pointed at her in a parenting way, "I'd like to say that up to this point, I've been very forgiving of these kinds of choices you've made. But now I need to say right now that you need to seriously rethink your decision here! I've had it with you always turning down special occasions like –"

"Now, now!" Queen Lua interrupted as she used her magic to pull him away, "Calm thy self, young dragon. Do not let thy get angry over this."

"Heh…heh…heh." Cricket huffed.

He then took some deep breaths, adjusted his clothes to look neat again and calmed himself down just as requested.

"There." Cricket said calmly, "Eh, sorry about that. I don't know what came over me." He said with a nervous smile.

"Forgiven." Queen Lua replied, "Now then, Fire Rose." She said as she looked over at Rose with a serious expression, "Please come walk with me. We'd like to speak with thee alone."

"Cricket." Queen Sol said, "Why don't you come with me? You can help me with preparations for tomorrow."

"Well, uh…" Cricket replied as he felt a little red, "Well since you ask, how can I be of service?"

"Follow me and I'll show you." Queen Sol answered as she turned around to begin walking.

Cricket looked over at Queen Lua and said, "I hope you know what to say to her."

"Put thy trust in us." Queen Lua answered, "We have a feeling we will get through to her."

Cricket then left to follow Queen Sol. Once the other two ponies were alone, Queen Lua decided to begin the walk.

"Come with us." Queen Lua told Rose, "We must discuss this matter."

Rose did as she said and followed Queen Lua through one of the exits of the Audience Chamber while feeling a little worried about the kind of talk they were about to have.

They soon arrived in one of the gardens in the Sun Castle and admired the plants that were growing there and the sun that was shining on them and the plants. Queen Lua, who is ironically the Queen of the Moon, was found enjoying the sunshine very much and was breathing in and out the warm weather they were having. Fire Rose's worries slightly quelled as she hoped that the discussion wouldn't be as bad as she thought it would be.

"Do thee feel that?" Queen Lua finally asked, "That warm feeling?"

Fire Rose took a moment to breath in and out just as her teacher did to see what she was talking about. She was feeling the warmth of the sun just as Queen Lua was. So logically, it could only mean that she was talking about the warm day they were having. Nothing else could possibly contradict her logic.

"The sun?" Fire Rose asked.

"Yes." Queen Lua replied, "The sun is very warm today just as thee said. But do thee also feel something else that brings thee warmth? Something brighter and greater?"

Rose took a moment to think about the answer to the question. But it was a rather tough question to answer. For what could be warmer than the sun? Well, she could think of a few things since she lived in the Fire Kingdom. But perhaps the question needed an answer surrounding the current area.

"Could it be…" Rose said as she thought about her answer, "The feeling you get for being here?" He asked with a smile, "Because being in this garden truly puts a warm feeling in my chest. It makes me feel bright and happy. Like all my troubles go away."

"That is a feeling we get." Queen Lua replied with a smile, "But," She continued as she looked serious again, "That's also incorrect. Try again."

"Um…" Fire Rose said as she began to sweat, "What else? What else?"

But her sweating stopped as soon as she remembered what Kingdom she is Princess of and what kind of magic she specializes in. Fire. After thinking about this, and how warm fire can feel if used correctly, Fire Rose used her magic to light a small fire on her horn to show Queen Lua her answer.

"Of course!" Fire Rose said with a smile, "The answer was on top of my head the whole time. Fire is the answer. Fire is bright and it helps keep ponies warm. Especially around cold weather. I figured it out once you said the warmer and brighter feeling was in this area. Because I'm in this area and I'm the Princess of Fire. Your questions are very well constructed." She finished with a bigger smile.

"Very clever thinking." Queen Lua thanked, "And thank thee for thy compliment. But sadly," She continued as she chuckled a bit, "That's also incorrect."

"Huh?!" Fire Rose yelped, "It's not?!" She exclaimed.

As she did, the fire in her horn began to get bigger and was beginning to crackle more and was looking unsafe.

"Quell thy fire before thee burn something." Queen Lua ordered.

"Huh?" Fire Rose said as she saw her bigger flame, "Oh." She said with a nervous smile, "Sorry."

She then stopped her spell before it got worse.

"How insulting!" A mare shouted as she came to the two ponies, "I plant all these plants in this garden to impress the Queen of Sun and you nearly go and burn them?!"

"No, I –" Fire Rose defended.

"You may be a Princess young lady," The mare interrupted, "But that doesn't mean you can go do whatever you want! Mind your magic from here on out!" She then began walking away as she scoffed to herself, "Hmph. Young ponies these days."

Once she left the scene, Queen Lua explained, "Do not mind her. She's very caring about her garden. She'd hate it if something horrible happened to her work."

"This is a nice garden." Rose replied, "I would hate for something bad to happen to it. Especially if I caused something to happen to it."

"Back on topic," Queen Lua began, "The answer we were hoping for is light."

"Oh…" Fire Rose groaned as she felt disappointed in herself, "Light. Of course. Why didn't I guess that first? It should've been obvious."

"Perhaps because thy have been so focused on studying and preparing for big events like tests," Queen Lua explained, "That thy have forgotten some of the more important things in life. Like the light for instance."

"No Your Majesty." Fire Rose denied, "You're mistaken. I mean no disrespect. But I haven't forgotten the importance of light. It's one of the things I couldn't forget if I tried."

"Then thee must remember what thee were taught about light as a filly." Queen Lua said as a face that a teacher could have when she really wanted her students to learn, "It's the one thing my sister and I have said back when we fought off against the forces of darkness long ago."

"T-taught?" Fire Rose stammered while jumping a bit, "O-oh. Right. Of course I remember. It's one of the first things I was taught when I was little. What I was taught is that… um…. Light is what keeps darkness from below from invading." She answered with confidence in her answer.

"Is that what you believe to be what thee were taught?" Queen Lua asked in an unconvinced expression.

Rose felt uncomfortable with the expression and asked, "Is that the correct answer?"

"We were afraid of this." Queen Lua said as she shut her eyes, "Just so you know," She continued as she opened her eyes again, "When we saw 'we' we are using both the royal we and the actual we. Because we are talking about ourselves in terms of the royal way and also we as in me and my sister were worried about this. Some ponies get confused when we use we so often. We do need to start speaking normally more often. We say we as in ourselves. We'll stop talking about this since it's probably getting confusing."

"You and your sister were afraid?" Fire Rose asked with worry, "Afraid of what?"

"If thee need to ask what thee were taught when thee were a filly," Queen Lua said as she closed her eyes again, "Then it seems thee have truly haven pushed aside something most important in life."

"What're you talking about?" Fire Rose asked with confusion, "I haven't pushed aside anything. Everything I've learned to care about throughout my life I've always held a special place in my heart. Even to this day. My family, my teachings, my friends."

"Thy friends?" Queen Lua asked, "Thee keep friends in thy heart?"

"Yes I do." Fire Rose answered.

"If so," Queen Lua replied, "Then we suggest thee should reconsider thy decision of declining our request. If thee won't stand by our side, then at least come with us to see thy friends. They would miss thee if thee didn't come. Especially Princess Aerial Ace. She's getting a new sibling. We truly believe that her entire family, including honorary family members, should attend. Have thee not considered how distraught she and the others might feel if thee didn't attend?"

"Of course I have." Fire Rose answered, "But… I just can't go. Not with what's coming up. I can't take any risks. But Cricket can go if he wants. I won't keep him from doing what he wants. But I wish to stay here so I can get ready for the final test. I have to pass it."

"But what about thy friends?" Queen Lua asked.

"I'll have to write a letter to explain that I can't join." Fire Rose answered, "I just hope that they'll understand."

"Young Rose," Queen Lua began, "We understand why it's important for thee to try and complete each challenge and test thee come across in the academy. But thee are distracting thyself from some of the more wonderful things in life. Light may still be incomplete, but there's still enough to see what wonders the world can give you. If thee keeps thyself in books for these many years, thee will miss on something good and healthy for thy heart. Do thee truly want that?"

"But I'm not…" Fire Rose began before going silent for a moment. After thinking about her next statement, she said, "I assure you, I'm not distracting myself. I still care about everything I did years ago. But I just can't risk failing a single part of this test." She then leaned her head down finished with, "This could be my only chance to impress mother. And to finally set things right."

Queen Lua was silent for a moment. Her face looking fairly displeased with what Rose said. She understood her motivation. But she knew that Rose was going to keep missing out on the greater things in life if she continues focusing on nothing but her goal. Queen Lua knew from that moment that Rose was lying to herself and that she truly has forgotten what's most important to her. She truly has pushed away a vital part of any heart. Especially when Rose is a heart of pure light.

"So this is thy final decision?" Queen Lua asked while looking displeased, "Thee will not go and not get the chance to see thy friends?"

"A-are you disappointed?" Fire Rose asked as she looked and sounded scared, "Please don't be! I didn't mean to –"

"No." Queen Lua answered, "We are not disappointed. We just hoped for something better than this."

Queen Lua then began walking away to exit the gardens and was leaving Fire Rose behind. Fire Rose didn't like the way Lua looked when she was walking.

"Your Majesty?" Fire Rose said with worry.

"There is nothing left to say." Queen Lua replied as she kept walking, "Thee may return to thy studying now. We shall inform the guards to prepare the carriage outside of the castle. We need to get back to preparing for the celebration."

She then went through the exit and left Fire Rose alone. Rose felt sad about how things had ended the way it did and found herself unable to move from the spot she was in. She sat on the ground and leaned her head down while looking sad.

Poof.

Suddenly, Lua teleported herself back to Rose with her magic and gave Rose quite a scare.

"Yipe!" Rose yelped as she jumped back on her hooves.

"Just so thee know," Queen Lua said, "When we said we a second ago, we meant my sister and I. I apologize for the confusion. It's a force of habit."

She then teleported back to where she was to continue her business. Rose was then too puzzled by Lua's wording to look sad at that moment and had a confused expression frozen on her face.

Sun Kingdom, after the Sun Crystal set the sun…

The gifts and other preparations for the celebration had been completed and all the ponies that were attending were all in their carriages waiting for Queen Sol to lead the group. But before she could leave, Queen Sol went into the Crystal Chamber that was under her throne to converse with the Sun Crystal.

Queen Sol walked down the stairs and into the Crystal Chamber with guards by her side. They entered the chamber and they found the Sun Crystal, shining in a bright red, orange, and yellow colors, sitting on its altar shining its light across all of Coltnelia and the rest of the world.

"Wait here." Queen Sol told her guards.

Queen Sol then walked up to the crystal quite slowly and the guards did as she ordered and stayed at the entrance just as she had asked them. When Queen Sol finally made it to the Sun Crystal, she sat down, closed her eyes softly, and tapped into the queenly magic in her horn. She was communicating with the Sun Crystal. One of the abilities of all the Queens of Coltnelia.

"Dear Crystal." Queen Sol said through her mind, "I shall be away for a few days for the celebration of a newborn in the Wind Kingdom. In my absence, I ask that you use all the magic you can use to recreate the barrier to keep the Crown City and the castle safe from all evil such as the Dark Ponies. I know it is sudden and that you may need more rest from last time you created the barrier. But I ask you to use whatever magic you have left to protect this city while I'm away. I promise you; I won't be gone long and I shall let you rest much longer once I return."

The Sun Crystal listened to her plead and had a moment to think about its response. It took a moment to think about how much power it has to create the barrier that keeps the Crown City of Daylight safe from evil. Although its power hadn't fully refilled yet, it still had some power left to maintain a barrier for a while. The Sun Crystal then glowed brightly three times. Showing to the guards that it was communicating with Queen Sol. Responding to her request.

Queen Sol smiled and said through her mind, "Thank you. I knew I could count on you."

Once she stopped her magic and opened her eyes again, the Sun Crystal shined brightly and shot a beam from its top to the ceiling. The beam went through many floors in the entire castle until it finally got outside and reached all the way to the tallest part of the castle. There, it shot itself to the sky and created a magical barrier that surrounded the Sun Castle and the entire Crown City of Daylight. Ponies from all over the capital city saw the barrier being created and knew that the Queen was soon to leave. The Crown City did have extra protection before the Sun Crystal's barrier since the return of the Dark Ponies*. But even with the barrier placed, the extra protection remained as the Queen didn't want to take risks.

(*The Fairy Pony story arc in My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic – The Team Light Chronicles)

Queen Sol then stood up and went back to her guards.

"It's done." Queen Sol told her guards, "The Crystal knows I'll be away and it's barrier has been set."

"Good thing." One of the guards commented as they walked back upstairs, "If you didn't the Crown City would be in great danger without you. With the Dark Ponies back and with the Secretariat Comet making it's run above Coltnelia."

"That's right," Queen Sol said with a smile, "The Secretariat Comet. I almost forgot that was coming. If we're lucky, maybe we'll see it either while we get to the Wind Kingdom or when we get there. I've always wanted to see the kind of tail it had when it flies. I hear it's pleasing to the eye."

"I'd rather not see it." The other guard said, "I hear that tons of magical creatures get a magical boost from the comet. I'd hate to see how cockatrices would look and behave."

"Oh come on." Queen Sol said with a teasing smile as they got back up, "Doesn't the idea of magical boosts to magical creatures sound exciting to you?"

"Not particularly." The guard answered.

"My Queen." Shining Glory said as he found Queen Sol and the guards there, "I'm glad you returned. I got a message from your sister saying that preparations at her kingdom is all finished and that she informed the Moon Crystal about her absence and has the barrier set up."

"Perfect." Queen Sol replied with a nod, "I just finished up everything here too."

"You had better leave now if you wish to be on time." Shining Glory said to his Queen, "It's going to be a long way to get there."

"Indeed." Queen Sol replied, "Guards, let us depart. First, we'll go get Cricket like Rose said to before she left, and then we're off."

"Yes, Your Majesty!" The guards replied as they stood tall.

"Guard her well." Shining Glory ordered his men.

"Yes sir!" The guards replied with a salute.

The Queen and her guards then left to get in the carriage waiting for them outside of the castle. Shining Glory was then left to make sure all the guards that were remaining protect the castle and the Crystal in the Queen's absence.

"I just hope the Queen can contain herself." Shining Glory said to himself, "She has gotten a little too foal-like in these celebrations in recent years."

Later after the sun had set…

Fire Rose and Cricket returned home at the academy just as Queen Lua suggested. Rose spent the rest of the day studying just as she promised. Not just for the final test, but also some spells she still hasn't perfected yet. After sunset, Princess Fire Rose was sitting at her desk writing a letter to somepony. That somepony was addressed to none other than one of Rose's best friends, Princess Aerial Ace. The Princess of the Wind Kingdom. Meanwhile, Cricket was telling Rose about what he and Queen Sol did while Rose spoke to Lua.

"Then this one pony had this strange idea of a chocolate fountain." Cricket explained as he paced across the room, "Hohoho." He chuckled, "Might I say what a silly idea it sounds. But for some reason, the idea doesn't sound too ridiculous to happen. How strange how the world is changing. Ponies from all over are coming up with these strange inventions. I even heard a rumor once that a pony may come up with a way to make sitting in mud a rather satisfying experience and good for the skin. I'd like to see how they'd pull that off."

"There." Fire Rose said as she finished her letter, "It's all done."

The letter read,

Dear Aerial Ace,

I have heard about the exciting news that you're going to have a new sibling. That makes 19 siblings for you. I'm really jealous of you. I only have one sister. I wish my family was as big as yours. I'm very happy for this momentous occasion. But unfortunately, I can't attend the birth celebration this year. The final test is coming up really soon and I don't want to risk failing. I want to take this time to study as hard as I can and truly impress my mother with my knowledge skills. Not to mention that I have to perfect some spells. I am the student of the Two Sisters after all. I have to master every bit of magic there is. I really hope you don't get disappointed that I'm not coming this year. I hope you understand and can tell all our other friends about this and make sure they understand as well. Say hi to your new sibling for me as well as your family and my father.

Sincerely, Princess Fire Rose.

She then rolled it up into a scroll, tied it with a knot, and passed it over to Cricket.

"Could you maybe send this to the Queen of Wind?" Fire Rose asked.

"Absolutely." Cricket answered as he took the letter.

He then concentrated his mind on the Wind Kingdom and used his fire breath magic to send the letter over to said Wind Kingdom.

"Now," Fire Rose said as she went back to her books, "I'd better practice a few more spells, go over my studies a few more times, progress a bit in my story, then get some sleep."

Suddenly, they heard a knock on the door and Fire Rose went to answer it. She opened the door and found two royal guards of the Sun Kingdom standing there.

"We've come here to pick up the dragon." One guard said, "The Queen said he was coming with her."

"Oh!" Cricket yelped as he approached the door, "I believe that would be me." He finished with a smile.

"Ah. Croak." The guard said as he looked at Cricket.

"It's uh, Cricket actually." Cricket corrected.

"Yes, yes." The guard replied without listening, "Master Croak, the Queen is waiting outside. If you still would like to come, we need to go now. We can't waste any time."

Cricket then turned to Rose and said, "Well Princess, this is your last chance. You're still not going to change your mind?"

"No Cricket." Rose answered, "I just can't go. Not when there's so much work for me to do."

"I don't mind staying and helping you." Cricket reminded her, "I'd hate for you to stay up so late by yourself. Not to mention the fact that I'm your conscience."

"I'll be alright." Rose assured, "It's only one night. Plus, there's nothing big happening tonight so there's nothing to worry about."

"Are you sure?" Cricket asked.

"I'm sure." Rose replied with a nod, "You've done so much for me. You deserve to have a little break. Go see the new foal. And if you don't mind, say hello to my father and tell him I miss him."

"Very well then." Cricket accepted, "I'll go. Just be careful now. And don't stay up too late. Alright?"

"I won't." Rose replied, "I'll make sure to get plenty of rest."

"That-a-girl." Cricket said with a smile, "Can I have a hug before I go?" He asked with an innocent voice.

The two then hugged each other tightly while smiling deeply. The hug lasted for a few seconds before one of the guards was touched by it.

"Awww…." The other guard said with a smile and his pupils widened.

"Ahem!" The first guard cleared his throat loudly, "That's sweet. But let's hurry now! Her Majesty is waiting!"

"Oh right!" Cricket said as he broke the hug, "Well, I'd better go now. Good night Fire Rose."

"Good night Cricket." Fire Rose said back with a smile, "Have fun."

The guards then left with Cricket and headed for the carriage carrying Queen Sol. When they arrived down there, Queen Sol was sitting in the carriage with two Pegasus ponies acting as the carriers of said carriage. Cricket got on the carriage with some help and greeted the Queen by taking off his hat for a second.

"Good evening Your Highness." Cricket greeted.

"Good evening." Queen Sol replied, "I suppose the Princess isn't coming after all."

"Nope." Cricket answered, "It seems her mind is set on those books and studies. I tried to convince her, but her mind was good and made up."

"I see." Queen Sol said as she looked at the window of the room Fire Rose was staying in.

She thought about what her sister said to her about Fire Rose. It seemed to her that things were worse than she thought. A lot worse.

"Fire Rose." Queen Sol thought, "Have you truly forgotten what you learned? Why can't you understand?"

"Alright." One of the guards said as he and the other one boarded the carriage, "Let's get a move on. All the other ponies are waiting."

"Take flight!" Queen Sol ordered the Pegasus ponies.

The two Pegasus ponies did as they were told as took flight. Carrying the carriage as they flew. As they began heading their way to the Wind Kingdom, all the other carriages filled with gifts, refreshments, and other things made for the occasion followed the Queen's carriage. It was the start of a journey that would take them the entire night. But would be worth it just to be prepared.

Meanwhile, Princess Fire Rose watched as the carriage carrying Queen Sol and Cricket flew away. She felt slightly saddened by the fact that she would spend a night all by herself. But at least she can sleep well knowing she let her friend and assistant choose what he wanted to do. After watching the carriage until it was no longer in sight, Rose went back to her studies and practicing. And it went on and on even when she was having a hard time keeping her eyes open. But she was so dedicated to preparing for everything that was happening that she hadn't planned for going to sleep tonight.

Somewhere outside of the Sun Crystal's barrier…

The ponies from earlier were out in the spot that they said were going to so that they can get a good look at the Secretariat Comet. The spot they chosen was on top of a little hill that had a good view of many constellations and was near the Sherhoof Forest.

"Alright." The stallion said as he finished making the tent, "We should be good to go."

"I feel sorry for all the other ponies in the crown city." The first mare commented, "They're missing out on something amazing. Who wouldn't want to see a comet that grants Unicorns and other magical creatures such incredible magic?"

"Ponies like Rose." The second mare answered while looking unhappy and while setting up a telescope, "Seriously. She's a bit finicky. All that talk about studying and staying up in her room and not come out? That's really not healthy."

"I do wish she'd learn to lighten up and have fun." The stallion added, "She's barely made any friends since she came to the academy."

"Has she made any friends at all?" The first mare asked.

"Well," The second mare said, "Let's forget about her for now. We're here to actually have fun. Not remind us of ponies who don't even know what fun is. How long until the comet comes?"

"Let me check." The stallion answered as he went inside the tent.

He then got out a map of Coltnelia and prepared his horn for a spell.

"Now if I remember correctly," The stallion said, "This spell should be able to let us see everything that goes on in Coltnelia for a brief moment. Even stuff that goes on over our heads. Let's see."

He then used his horn to cast the spell on the map. And when he looked at it again, the spell worked and it should magical dust all over the map taking the forms of many different ponies and creatures. There were carriages being pulled and ponies sleeping and eating late dinners. The stallion even saw the all the carriages and ponies heading for the Wind Kingdom for the grand celebration. But what he what truly was candy to his eyes was the comet that he and his friends had been dying to see. But the sad news was that the comet still had a way to go before approaching the Sun Kingdom.

The stallion went back outside and said, "The comet's in sight for Coltnelia to see. But it's going to be a while before we can see it from here. We may not even see it tonight."

"We'd better see it tonight!" The first mare exclaimed, "I've been waiting my whole life to see this comet! I want to see how it affects other magical creatures so badly! I don't care if I get attacked in the process, it would be so worth it!"

"D-did you say get attacked?" The stallion asked while looking nervous.

"Well if we don't see the comet tonight," The second mare said with a smile, "We can still look at the stars and the constellations. Did you know that the Zebra Constellation refers to the leader of the zebras in the zebra lands? The zebra's name is Hadwin. According to history, Lua met him once and…"

As the second mare told her story without realizing that the other two weren't listening, the stallion went in the tent to look at a book he found at the library a few days ago. It was a book detailing the great evils of the world. Not just in Coltnelia, but evils in all the other lands as well. The first mare spotted him and was curious about his book.

"What'cha reading there?" The first mare asked as she went in the tent.

"A history book about the many villains throughout the world." The stallion answered.

"That's so like you." The first mare chuckled, "You're a history fanatic. You'd read the history book for carts if you had the chance."

"What can I say?" The stallion chuckled back, "I love my history."

"Any interesting villains you've come a crossed?" The first mare asked.

"One actually." The stallion answered as he turned the pages, "Can I ask you something?"

"Sure." The first mare replied, "What is it?"

"Do you know what X[chi] is?" the stallion asked.

"Key?" The first mare asked back, "Is there a villain that uses keys for weapons for something?"

"Not key like something to open doors." The stallion explained.

He then showed her the page in the book that had a letter that resembled an x. The mare got a good look at it and thought nothing much about it at first, but quickly changed her opinion on it as soon as she noticed the slight difference between it and a normal x. And how two of the lines, one on the upper part and the other on the lower part, were curved.

"X[chi]." The first mare read the page.

"Does that word mean anything to you?" the stallion asked.

"I don't think it's a word." The mare said, "I think it's a letter. But what is that doing in that book."

"It says something about a magical Unicorn knight that calls himself the X[chi] Knight." The stallion answered as he looked back in the book, "The book says he was once a knight for the Moon Kingdom that got corrupted by an evil power. They say the armor he had gave him incredible magic and strength and a darkness that could rival that of a Dark Pony. He also has lots of other abilities too. Some even say that he can see into one's heart and see the choices a pony has made and how the heart reflects on those choices."

"Gee." The mare said with a surprised look, "He sounds like he was a pretty dangerous enemy. I hope he's in a state where he can't come back. I'd sure hate to run into him."

"It says here that he has been defeated by Queen Sol and Lua along with help different creatures from a different land." The stallion said as he read the book.

"What creatures were those?" The mare asked.

Right before the stallion could answer, the other mare came inside and was still going on about her story.

"And some even speculate that Lua and Hadwin have a little something special going on between –" The second mare said before she saw the two ponies together.

Seeing as one was a mare and the other was a stallion and they were alone in the tent together; the second mare got a mischievous smile and got an idea as to what was going on.

"Well, well." The second mare said in a mischievous tone and smile, "Looks like the Secretariat Comet isn't the only comet passing by. Heh, heh. The love comet's also making a quick visit!"

"Don't start that!" The mare and stallion exclaimed.

"Heehee!" The other mare chuckled as her friends threw things at her to get her to leave, "I knew coming out here with them would be fun!"

Meanwhile somewhere in a forgotten village of Coltnelia…

In a dark cave deep within an abandoned town, there were five mysterious glasses on the walls in the cave. All five of them covered in dust and dirt for standing there without being cleaned for many years. At the center of the abandoned town, there was a tall gray tree. A tree with no leaves and no life on it whatsoever. A dead gray tree just sitting in the middle of the town like it was frozen in time. But it didn't look like any normal tree. In fact, it looked very different from the other trees.

This tree had a different look on its bark. It looked as though something was carved into the tree. A really tall craving at that. A craving of a Unicorn stallion dressed in a really big armor. The carving made it looked like he was standing on his hind hooves and his front hooves were on the two branches that were dead and gray just as the rest of the tree was. This entire craving of the stallion looks like a work of art to the normal eye. But the truth is, in fact, this was not a carving. It was something else. For this carving was actually the pony that the stallion with the two mares was talking about in his book. The villain that had many powers, magic and abilities with the use of the armor he wore. The villainous knight who calls himself the X[chi] Knight.

He was imprisoned in this tree as punishment for his evil actions and deeds years ago. Not just from the hooves of Queen Sol and Lua. But with help from a different creature as well. But because the other mare decided to jump on it, we don't know who that other creature is at this time. But here is what we're about to find out right now.

Right above the abandoned town, the Secretariat Comet was flying at a normal pace for a comet to pace at. And it was doing what it normally does and giving an uncanny boost for many magical creatures. Including Unicorns. Not that there are any near here since the town was abandoned. Except for one. The very Unicorn Knight himself, the X[chi] Knight.

From the very top of the tree, the Secretariat Comet shined on top of the tree. Giving its magical boost to the magical tree that the knight had become. As the magical boost from the comet shined, the tree began to absorb its power and give it to the knight that was imprisoned in the tree. From within his prison, the X[chi] Knight began to feel his magic and power returning to him. He felt the boost giving him strength again. Enough strength and magic to begin breaking out of his sappy prison. Soon, he was able to free his front hooves and move them around, and then cracks were forming in the area where his face was. First, holes appeared so that he could see the outside. And soon, his muzzle was free.

"Grrrr…" The X[chi] Knight growled as he was slowly freeing himself.

And soon, his back hooves were free. But he was still unable to completely move his body since the prison tree he was in still had enough magic to hold him down. But that didn't last long.

"My horn…" The X[chi] Knight said to himself in a demotic voice, "Let… my horn… free!"

Soon, he felt a great magic boost in his horn. And with it, he fired a huge magic beam through his horn and broke apart the tree he was imprisoned in from the top. And because his horn was finally free, he used his magic to free the rest of his body from the prison. And in no time at all, he was moving again. Standing on four hooves and able to breath. Because of how powerful his magic was and how much energy it took him to cast it, he took a moment to rest.

"Heh…heh…heh…" The X[chi] Knight panted as he was catching his breath.

He then stood up and felt the magic inside of his horn. He was shocked by his boost as he had never felt anything like it before.

"What?" The X[chi] Knight said as he felt his magic, "What is this? My magic… it's tremendous. I got a boost that gave me enough power to escape. But how? What could've given me such a power up?"

He then looked up at the sky to see if there was anything there that could give him an answer. And that was when he discovered the Secretariat Comet. Though he didn't know that that's what it's called since he had never seen a comet like it before.

"That comet." The X[chi] Knight said as he got a good look at it, "Could it truly be what's giving my horn the boost?" He then turned away and began walking, "I must converse with my mirrors to see what this is!"

He then went inside of the cave he was in to get to his five mirrors. As he walked, he thought about what had happened before he had been imprisoned by Queens Sol and Lua and the other creature that helped them. The mere memory of that day enraged him.

"Queen Sol and Lua." The X[chi] Knight said to himself, "I don't know how long it's been. But it's been long enough for me to want revenge on you. Revenge on all of Coltnelia! At long last, now that I'm free, I can continue my conquest to prove that my strength alone can conquer an entire land! And next, the world!"

When he approached the mirrors, he noticed how old and dusty they looked. They were beginning to show their age. But their appearances didn't worry him one bit. For he knew the secret to them.

"You all have been asleep for too long!" The X[chi] Knight said as his horn began to glow in a blackish-red magical aura, "Awaken my mirrors of power and knowledge!"

He then casted magical beams at each of them. And once he did, they each began to glow in the same blackish red that his horn was glowing in. Their magic was being revived and their dust and age began to disappear and they looked fresh and new again. As if they were just bought from a new mirror store.

"Yes." The X[chi] Knight said as he looked at his mirrors, "You all are awaken now. As am I. Now tell me how long we've been asleep. I demand an answer."

"Quell yourself o knight, quell your temper." One of the mirrors answered, "For it's been a good thirty years, if I correctly remember."

"Thirty years?" The X[chi] Knight questioned, "Strange. It felt like millions of years when I was imprisoned. Regardless, tell me something. I'm getting a boost in my magic. That boost allowed me to escape my prison. What's going on?! Why is this happening to me now?!"

"The comet you see in the sky provided your boost." One of the mirrors answered, "And the magic from the comet overcame your roost."

"The comet?" The X[chi] Knight questioned, "How curious. What is that comet?"

"The Secretariat Comet flies above," One of the mirrors answered, "It gives a magical creature the power of ten creatures all in one."

"So, it is the comet that gave me the boost." The X[chi] Knight said with interest, "The Secretariat Comet. Yes, this makes sense. Tell me my mirrors, does this boost in my magic make me stronger than the Queens of Coltnelia? Especially Queen Lua?"

"The comet gives great magic to all," One of the mirrors answered, "If you absorb more, you shall be the victor of the ultimate brawl."

"Absorb more of the comet's power?" The X[chi] Knight said with fascination, "Yes, yes. I know exactly how I can use this to my advantage. I'll use absorb as many of that magical boost as I can and I'll use that magic to defeat Queen Sol and Lua. And once I capture them, I shall force them to use their magic to hold the comet in place so that it will never pass and I'll continue using it's magic boost to become the unstoppable Unicorn Knight I promised to be!"

He then went back outside to get an even greater boost to his magic. And as more of the magical boost got to his horn, he felt more powerful, stronger, almost invincible. He felt proud and great about the magic boost he was receiving and wanted more of it to keep growing more powerful. Powerful enough to tower all of Coltnelia and rule it in his own way.

"Yes…." The X[chi] Knight said with a satisfied tone, "Yes…. This magic I'm feeling. I can't let that comet pass. It must stay where it is. I need to hurry and find Queen Sol and Lua so I can use their magic to keep the comet in place. But with how far the Sun and Moon Kingdoms are, there's no way I'll be able to get to them in time. The comet might pass before I get there."

"My master, come quick." One of the mirrors shouted from inside of the cave, "There is something you must see that might do you the trick."

"Huh?" The X[chi] Knight said while turning to the cave.

He went back inside the cave to see what the mirrors had to show him.

"What is it?" The X[chi] Knight asked as he got back to the mirrors.

"We have sensed something that will brighten up your night." One of the mirrors explained, "For we have sensed the very two ponies of pure light."

"Queen Sol and Queen Lua?" The X[chi] Knight asked, "You've sensed them nearby?"

"We have I am sure as you think I am." One of the mirrors replied, "I have sensed them flying near Nocttingham."

"Nocttingham?" The X[chi] Knight asked, "But that's here in the Wind Kingdom. What business do they have here?"

"They appear to be traveling on a journey." One of the mirrors answered, "How convenient when your thirst for power is very thirsty."

"Yes." The X[chi] Knight agreed, "Very convenient. Whatever it is they are doing here; they're going by Nocttingham. And that means they'll be passing by here. This gives me the perfect opportunity to capture the two Queens and use their magic to hold the comet. Heeheehee." He chuckled evilly at the end, "And I know exactly how I'm going to do it."

"Shall we use the old spell?" One of the mirrors asked, "To make things go all too well?"

"You all know me too well." The X[chi] Knight replied as he felt flattered, "And I say it's a brilliant idea! What a better way to set a trap for two caring Queens!"

He then prepared his horn for a spell and he shot a beam at each mirror to cast his spell. As he fired his beams at them, the mirrors began to glow in a deep dark darkness. The X[chi] Knight smiled evilly as he prepared his chant.

"O powers of X[chi]! Powers of the Void!" The X[chi] Knight chanted, "Reawaken my army of Void Ponies!"

Once his chant was complete, the shadows from the mirrors began spreading across the ground and creating dark creatures created from his powers of the X[chi] Armor and the very place he calls the Void. The creatures of nothing but darkness took the form of ponies with yellow glowing eyes. And once they were created and were standing straight, they turned to their creator and kneeled before him.

"Hehehehehehe…." The X[chi] Knight laughed evilly, "Yes… I can feel your power. It's even greater than before! Now my pets, we shall rejoice! For soon, our reign over Coltnelia will begin! Hahahahahaha!"

Later with Queens Sol and Lua…

The Two Sisters were being carried by their carriages to the Crown City of the Wind Kingdom to prepare the celebration of the newborn baby. Cricket was riding with Queen Sol and many other carriages were following them. It is quite a journey to take, but they wanted to be there soon so they can help with preparations.

"I sure hope Fire Rose can do well by herself." Cricket said to Queen Sol, "She's always been able to do things better when I'm around."

"I'm sure she'll be fine." Queen Sol replied with a smile.

"Of course," Queen Sol thought to herself as her smile disappeared, "That's what I'd like to think. But she's been keeping her to herself for so long. I'm afraid that without Cricket with her, I am a little worried about her."

With Queen Lua, she was thinking of even greater concern for their student that had refused to join them. So much that she was having trouble finding a bright side in this matter.

"Your Majesty!" A guard exclaimed all of a sudden, "Look!"

Queen Lua jumped at his sudden outburst and then quickly looked down to see what he was talking about. When she looked down, she saw a group of three Timberwolves surrounding a pony couple in the forest. Seeing this, Queen Lua knew that something needed to be done.

"Sister!" Queen Lua shouted to the carriage carrying her sister.

"I see it too!" Queen Sol shouted back, "Guards! Land now so we can help them!"

"Your Majesty." One of the guards said, "Leave this to us. We'd hate it for you or your sister to get hurt when you two need to present yourselves to the Queen of Wind."

"No." Queen Sol denied, "My sister and I will take care of them. It's our duties as Queens of Coltnelia to protect our people from harm. Besides," She continued while smiling big, "I haven't had this kind of excitement in years! This will be like old times!"

"I think you need to focus more on saving the innocent ponies than having fun Your Highness." Cricket suggested.

The carriages carrying the Two Sisters landed on the ground in a bit of a small distance from the town and the Two Sisters got off to go and save the two innocent ponies. Cricket obviously stayed behind to, in his words, make sure the guards don't sleep on the job.

Meanwhile, with the pony couple surrounded by Timberwolves, the Timberwolves were coming closer and closer to the ponies. Getting ready to bounce on them and eat them. The two ponies were hugging each other and trembling in fear together. Wondering if this truly is the end for them. But right before one could jump on them…

"Leave them alone!" Queen Sol shouted to the Timberwolves.

The Timberwolves turned to find the Two Sisters standing proudly at them. Prepared to face what was coming toward them in the fight they were getting into.

"If you want to pick on two ponies," Queen Sol said with a cocky expression, "Come bounce on us!"

"Sister!" Queen Lua said as she prepared her horn, "Get serious! Here they come!"

The Timberwolves came running toward them really fast, and the Two Sisters prepared their horns for the fight against them. The fight did not last long and the Two Sisters' Queen Magic were able to overcome the creatures made out of wood. They did reconstruct a few times, but they soon met their end at the hooves of the Queens of the Sun and Moon.

"Whew." Queen Sol said as she wiped the sweat off her head, "That was pretty rough."

"It wouldn't have taken so long if you didn't treat the fight like a game sister." Queen Lua replied with an irritated tone.

"It's been so long since we've fought off Timberwolves." Queen Sol said with a smile, "Don't pretend it isn't fun."

"Eh." Queen Lua sighed.

The two then approached the two ponies to check on them.

"How are you two?" Queen Sol asked them, "Are you okay?"

"Your Majesties." The mare said, "You saved us."

"We're eternally grateful." The stallion added.

"Thank heavens thee are not hurt." Queen Lua said with a smile, "Perhaps it's time for thee to return home. It's not safe here."

"That's right." Queen Sol added, "If you'd like, we can carry you home."

"Oh no." The mare denied, "We couldn't ask you to do that. But we do need a favor from the two of you."

"Oh?" Queen Lua replied, "What favor is that?"

"We'd like…" The stallion answered while smiling, "You to become his prisoner!"

"Prisoner?" Queen Sol asked with a confused look.

Suddenly, the two ponies began to change and their coats, manes, and tails changed into black shadows forming two ponies. And their eyes began to glow in a yellow light.

"Wah!" Queens Sol and Lua exclaimed from the sight of the two ponies.

"N-no!" Queen Lua stuttered as she knew what these creatures were, "They can't be… creatures of the Void?!"

"But if they're here," Queen Sol added, "Does that mean… Oh no!" She yelped as she pieced things together.

From behind them, the pieces of the Timberwolves began to change into shadows of the Void without them noticing. And the shadows began to grow in size and soon, their shadow began to cover the Two Sisters. The Two Sisters noticed the moon's light disappearing and turned around to see what was causing it to vanish.

"Ah!" Queen Sol and Queen Lua screamed as they saw the wall of shadows behind them.

Back at the carriages…

Cricket and the guards waited for the return of the Two Sisters so that they may continue the trip to the castle of the Wind Kingdom. The waiting took a little longer than it should have taken and this caused worry for the poor 110-year old dragon. But soon they began to hear hoof-steps and quickly rushed to see if they were returning. And sure enough, their worrying came to an end when they saw the Two Sisters returning.

"Your Majesties!" Cricket exclaimed as he rushed to them, "Thank goodness you're both safe. Were those Timberwolves any trouble?"

"They proved to be no match for the Queens of Coltnelia." Queen Lua answered.

"And the lovely couple went home safely." Queen Sol added, "All's well now."

"Then let's get back on the road." Cricket suggested, "The road in the sky that is."

"Indeed." Queen Sol agreed.

The Two Sisters got back into their carriages and ordered their flyers to take off again. And the journey continued.

"We may have had to stop to help those peasant ponies." One of the guards in Queen Sol's carriage said to the Queen, "But we should still be able to make it the castle by dawn. Perhaps you should rest until we get there."

"No, no." Queen Sol said with her eyes closed and in a sweet voice, "I want to savor every moment of this journey. I'll sleep when we get there."

"If you say so." The guard replied, "Just don't push yourself like this too much."

"Oh trust me." Queen Sol said quietly to herself in a slightly more sinister tone, "I won't push myself too hard." She then opened her eyes and formed an eviler expression and said very quietly, "I'll leave it to him."

As soon as she finished her sentence, her eyes glowed yellow for a split-second and was not noticed by either guard nor Cricket.

Dawn, the castle of the Wind Kingdom…

The Wind Castle, surrounded by the Crown City of Cyclone, is home to Queen Lucy Twirl and King Star Chaser and their many children. Among those children is Princess Aerial Ace. But what is needed to be focused on right now is that King Star Chaser is up very early and dealing with the preparations for the celebration of his newborn child. He wanted to make sure all decorations were in their place, food was being prepared, etc. Soon, he was in the Audience Chamber helping most of his children prepare for how they will all stand when the celebration begins.

We meet King Star Chaser. A green-coated Pegasus stallion with a red mane and tail, golden eyes, and a Cutie Mark representing his love for the stars. He was also wearing a strange amulet around his neck along with a big crown and a royal robe. He is the King of the Wind Kingdom and is known for his fun-like personality and always has high hopes that things will turn out better in the end. In the Audience Chamber, he was helping eighteen of his many children to look their best for the celebration. Six of the children were very young colts and the other eleven were young fillies and mares.

"Hmmm…" Star Chaser hummed as he observed the scene, "A lot better than last time." He commented with a smile, "Of course, if Feather Wing could make stand a little bit straighter instead of making it seem like he's putting on weight, I bet we could embarrass your mom a little less."

"Dad!" Feather Wing yelled, "Come on!"

"This is getting irritating!" The eight-year old daughter who is also the last-born daughter complained, "We've been going about this all morning!"

"This isn't my idea of spending my morning!" One of the other daughters added.

"Come on now my babies." King Star Chaser said with his playful smile as he paced back and forth, "You know we have to do this. As frustrating as it is, it's the best way of welcoming your newest sibling to the world. Ah!" He playfully gasped, "Don't tell me you don't want him to have the best welcoming a new-born deserves! You'd rather he not get the kind of celebration you all got?! And after all the hard work we put for all of you when you were born! We thought you could repay us someday by doing this one thing for me and your mother!" He then playfully acted dramatically as he placed his hoof across his eyes and continued, "Oh woe is me! I thought we could have all these wonderful beauties gifts from above bless us with great thanks! But now I see that the cakes, the presents, and the visits from the Three Good Fairy Alicorns just wasn't enough to please my ungrateful children!"

"Ok! Ok!" Feather Wing shouted, "We'll do better! Just stop saying all those annoying things!"

"Heh, heh." King Star Chaser chuckled as he smiled at them mischievously, "That gamble paid off."

"Father." The 20-year old daughter who is also the first-born child asked, "Why isn't Aerial Ace here? She should be practicing with us too."

"Yeah!" One of the colts asked, "Why doesn't she need to practice?! That isn't fair!"

"Aerial Ace is on her way to the Sun Kingdom to see Fire Rose." King Star Chaser answered, "Apparently something came up and Fire Rose isn't coming this year."

"Aw." The three-year old colt complained as he felt like crying, "But I like Fire Rose."

"I like her too." The eight-year old filly said, "What could be more important than seeing us?"

"You're guess is as good as mine sweetheart." King Star Chaser replied, "Now then, let's do this from the top."

"Augh!" All the children except for the oldest and most mature ones groaned.

Later at the Sun Kingdom…

Princess Fire Rose was in her room sleeping on her desk. The story writing one, not the other one. She worked so hard last night that she couldn't stay awake much longer. And now her body has forced her to rest.

"Zzzzz…." Fire Rose snored, "Zzzz…. Queen Sol….used the power….of oaks to defeat the great…pickle…..from the ninth dimension…."

She was so exhausted that she's talking in her sleep. Did I really need to mention that?

Knock, knock.

A knock was being made at her door. Indicating that somepony was wanting to enter her room. But Fire Rose was so tired and sleepy that the sound couldn't wake her. And she continued snoring.

Knock, knock.

"Huh, wha-wha?" Fire Rose said as she raised her head slightly.

She had awoken a little bit. But her tiredness was too great and she laid her head back down to sleep.

KNOCK, KNOCK!

The knocks got even louder that time.

"W-what?!" Fire Rose exclaimed as she woke up, "Queen Lua kept her special cider on the moon!" She then calmed down as she asked herself, "Why do I know that?"

Knock, knock.

The knocking on the door went again. This time, Rose heard it and knew somepony was there.

"C-coming." Fire Rose said to the pony on the other side of the door.

She then went to the door and used her magic to open it. When she opened the door, she was surprised to see who was on the other side.

"G-girls?!" Fire Rose exclaimed as she jumped a bit.

Much to her surprise, there was not one pony, but five. And these ponies are the fillyhood friends of Fire Rose. And they are also the Princesses of the other Kingdoms of Coltnelia.

The first mare was Princess Diamond Dust. She is a young lady-like Unicorn mare with a blizzard blue-coat, blue eyes, long platinum blonde mane and tail, and a crystal-blue dress made out of ice along with blue slippers also made out of ice. She had a Cutie Mark representing her love for ice. She is the Princess of Ice.

The second mare was Princess Aerial Ace. She is a young Pegasus mare with a coat that was very light aquamarine, a white pigtail-styled mane and a white fluffy tail, gold eyes, and a Cutie Mark of a map. She is the Princess of Wind.

The third mare was Princess Rock Polish. She is a young Earth Pony mare that was gray-coated with a long curly red mane and tail and a dark-dress that covers her Cutie Mark that shows a bow and arrow. She also had auburn eyes. She is the Princess of Earth and speaks in a different accent*.

(*Scottish-like accent)

The fourth mare was Princess Dolphin Tail. She is a young Pegasus pony mare that was navy-blue-coated with green eyes and a pearly purple mane and tail and a Cutie Mark representing her love for sea-creatures. She's the Princess of Water.

The fifth and final mare was Princess Topsy Turvy. She is a young Earth Pony mare that was pickle-green-coated with a raven-black mane and tail and wearing a white top with a teal and gold bodice along with a purple sarong and white petticoat. Her eyes were red and her Cutie Mark was that of a pandeiro. She is the Princess of Plant.

"Girls?" Fire Rose said with a surprised look, "What're you all doing here?"

"We came to see you." Aerial Ace answered, "Because…"

She stopped talking as soon as she saw Fire Rose's mane and how messy it looked. It showed that Fire Rose had barely gotten any sleep and that she is very exhausted.

"Heehee." Aerial Ace chuckled, "Nice mane Fire Rose. Is that what all the mares in the academy are wearing?"

"Huh?" Rose asked with confusion, "What're you talking about?"

"I think… heehee," Dolphin Tail said while holding in a laugh, "You may want to check a mirror."

Fire Rose did just that and went over to the mirror on her writing desk. And to her surprise, her mane was a complete mess.

"AH!" Fire Rose screamed, "Look at me!"

"Way ahead of you." Aerial Ace replied.

"I must've stayed up too late again." Fire Rose said as she quickly got a brush to fix her mane.

"I think staying up too late is an understatement." Diamond Dust said as she entered the room, "Look at your room sweetheart. I knew that the rooms at this academy were pooled with books and all other sorts. But this is too much."

"You're telling me." Rock Polish said, "It looks like a hurricane hit this place."

"Did you really stay up all night Fire Rose?" Dolphin Tail asked.

"Well the final tests before the break are coming up soon." Fire Rose answered as she fixed her mane and put it in the brad style she likes it as, "I can't waste a moment to go over everything that might be on there. They always leave surprises in the tests to see if a pony here can really dedicate themselves to learning much knowledge. And from previous experiences, I prepared myself much better."

"Maybe prepared a little too much is more of the right phrase." Aerial Ace said.

"Well I certainly hope you're not thinking of getting back to studying now." Topsy Turvy stated.

"Why not?" Fire Rose asked as she turned to her friends.

"Because it wouldn't be a Best Friends Day if at least six of us weren't enjoying it together!" Topsy Turvy said with a hop.

"A best friends day?" Fire Rose asked.

"Remember?" Dolphin Tail asked, "Best Friends Day. It's a day we made up when we were fillies."

"Oh! Right." Fire Rose said with a smile as she remembered the very day her friends mentioned, "Best Friends Day. How could I forget?" Her smile quickly disappeared as she asked, "Wait. We're having one today?"

"Well yeah." Topsy Turvy answered, "I mean it's not like all the other holidays where it's on a specific day. We can have Best Friends Day anytime at any point of the year. That's what makes it fun." She finished with a smile.

"I got your letter Rose." Aerial Ace said, "And got everypony else here to spend time with you."

"Huh?" Fire Rose said with a surprised look, "Really?"

"Yeah." Aerial Ace answered, "I am supposed to be practicing my part for when the celebration begins later this week. And since you're not going, I thought I'd get everypony together to spend a whole Best Friends Day with you."

"We have a really big schedule for this really fun day." Dolphin Tail said with a smile, "And I think you're going to love what we've put down. Take a look."

Fire Rose then used her magic to look at the paper that Dolphin Tail got out. But when she looked at it, the paper was completely blank on both sides. Not a single word could be seen and this puzzled her very much.

"Dolphin Tail." Fire Rose said as she looked back at her friend, "The paper is blank."

"I know!" Dolphin Tail replied, "Because…"

"The best kind of Best Friends Day is to not have a schedule!" The five ponies chanted.

Fire Rose didn't really know how to react to that response from her friends. But she did know where they were coming from.

"So," Fire Rose said as she got back on topic, "Aerial Ace, does this mean you're not mad at me?"

"Mad?" Aerial Ace asked, "How could I be mad at you?"

"Well…" Fire Rose began, "I'm…ot…in….ele….."

"What?" Aerial Ace asked as she put her hoof to her ear, "What'd you say?"

"I said…n…go…..cele….."

"Sweetie, speak up." Diamond Dust said with a regal tone, "We're royal ponies. The voices of royal ponies should always be heard."

"I'M NOT GOING TO THE CELEBRATION!" Fire Rose said loudly.

The other ponies got surprised by her outburst and Fire Rose covered her muzzle and blushed.

"I said to be heard," Diamond Dust said, "Not to make nopony hear."

"So what if you're not going to the celebration?" Aerial Ace asked as she shrugged her hooves, "You've been to all the other ones already."

"Wait." Fire Rose said with a confused look, "You mean to tell me that you're not mad at me for not coming?"

"Mad?!" Aerial Ace asked, "Rose, I'm jealous of you!"

"Jealous?" Fire Rose asked, "How could you be jealous? You're getting a new sibling."

"Well yeah." Aerial Ace replied, "And I'm happy for that, to a certain degree." She whispered to herself, "But after doing this so many times for my entire life, it gets so predictable and boring. Mom doesn't like to change anything about it. When our family gets a new member, mom wants them to be welcomed to the world just like how my oldest sister did. And you can tell that it can get old really quickly. If you're in my family, if you've been to one of my siblings' birth celebrations, you've been to them all."

"She's right there." Rock Polish said, "I even tried getting an apple cider drinking contest as a new tradition. But Aerial Ace's mum was not very fond of that idea. She said she wouldn't have any beverage that could possibly make her baby see pink elephants."

"Pink elephants?" Topsy Turvy said with a sneaky smile, 'Hmmm…. This gives me an idea for next Topsy Turvy Festival."

"Anyway," Aerial Ace continued as she got up from the ground, "I didn't want you to be completely alone while everypony else is pretending to have fun at the celebration. So we want to spend Best Friends Day all day with you."

"Aerial Ace." Fire Rose said with a touched voice and smile, "Girls. This is so nice of you."

The other Princesses smiled back and were expecting her to join in really easily. However…

"But I can't do it today." Fire Rose suddenly declined.

"Huh?" The mares yelped.

"Too many things coming up." Fire Rose explained as she got to her studying desk, "I need to focus."

"Oh come on Rose." Aerial Ace said as she followed her, "Don't be like that. You've always liked spending Best Friends Day with us."

"Even though you haven't spent a lot of Best Friends Days with us in a really long time." Dolphin Tail added.

"And that you usually decline every time we offer you a chance to spend Best Friends Day with us." Topsy Turvy added.

"And that you usually don't leave Daylight City and keep yourself locked away in this room and various other places where us and other ponies can't find you and let you have your privacy from us." Rock Polish added.

"Girls!" Aerial Ace snapped as she talked through her teeth, "I thought we already talked about this!"

"Fire Rose," Diamond Dust began as she approached her, "Come now. You can't possibly study on such a wonderous day like this. It's days like today that make the forest sceneries show their true greens. And the skies glimmer with a radiant blue."

"Not to mention all the fun we could have!" Topsy Turvy added, "We could go set off some fireworks in a cider shop and get ourselves chased down by the shop owner until we mysteriously vanish with my magic fabric. He'll be so confused."

"That's a bit much," Dolphin Tail said, "Don't you think?"

"What?" Topsy Turvy asked, "Is that not topsy turvy enough for you?"

"The last time I didn't study enough," Fire Rose said, "I almost got kicked out of the academy. I can't let that happen again. That's why I need to use every second I have to make sure I know everything I may need to know."

"You've got the whole week to study." Aerial Ace told her, "I'm sure you can lose one day of studying. Come on Rose. It's been so long. I can't even remember the last time you spent a Best Friends Day with us."

"If it's because of what Inky did to you that one time," Dolphin Tail said with a smile, "He said he's sorry. He didn't realize that he had more ink than you needed for your quill."

"Trust me." Fire Rose said as she shivered a bit, "I can never forget about that. I still haven't gotten some ink out of my ears."

"Oh." Rock Polish said as she looked inside one of Rose's drawers and saw the amount of ink vials, "That explains why you don't go to the Quills and Candles store."

"Fire Rose," Diamond Dust joined in, "You know it's not healthy to keep yourself inside this room for a whole week. It's always good to get some fresh air and enjoy the weather. And no better day than today to do it."

"I don't want to say in here for a whole week," Rose replied, "But I –"

"Please Fire Rose?" Dolphin Tail said as she looked at Rose with big quivering eyes, "You haven't done this with us for so long."

Rose looked at Dolphin Tail's begging eyes and began to feel guilty about declining the request. She then began to rethink about her plan today and tried to think of a way to spend the day to study while also having fun with her friends. And in no time at all, an idea came to mind.

"Well," Rose began as she thought about her plan, "I guess it wouldn't hurt to spend half a day with you girls. You wouldn't mind if it's a half-day, right?"

"Not at all." Aerial Ace replied, "That's more than enough time to have fun with you. Besides, this works for us too. I can then get home quicker to help with preparations and practice my part. What about all of you?"

"I think half of a day works." Diamond Dust agreed, "At least she can have the rest of the day studying afterwards and we can help our families with the preparations on our side."

"It works for me too." Rock Polish agreed.

"Half a day is more than enough for me." Dolphin Tail agreed.

"Well then," Topsy Turvy said with a smirk, "We'll just have to make this half-day Best Friends Day half as special today! I say we do it!"

"Okay then." Aerial Ace said as she began heading for the door, "Let's go have some fun!"

"Okay." Fire Rose agreed as she and the other mares followed.

"I thought of something we could do first." Diamond Dust said as they walked, "I thought that maybe we could…"

As the group walked, Fire Rose noticed that Enchanted Belle wasn't with the group. She was always a part of Best Friends Day along with all the other Princesses. This absence of her is quite a surprise to Rose.

"Hey." Fire Rose said to the group, "Where's Enchanted Belle? Is she not joining with us?"

"Sadly no." Diamond Dust answered, "And her family isn't coming to the celebration either."

"They're not?" Rose asked with a surprised look.

"Yeah." Aerial Ace answered, "Belle's parents were so happy when Belle returned after so long* that they're going to be away to spend time with Belle for a few days to make up for lost time**. They were apparently gone before the invitations got sent out."

(*The Other Mane 6 in the Team Light Chronicles. **Family Out-To-Get-Ing in the Team Light Chronicles.)

"Oh." Rose said as she leaned her head down and looked a little sad, "I see."

"Some things just never change." Dolphin Tail commented, "Especially Belle and her parents. They treat each other like best friends more than family."

"I sure wish I could be like that with my Mum." Rock Polish added, "Too bad we don't really see eye to eye."

"Even though we won't be seeing Belle and her parents there," Aerial Ace explained, "Astraios and Nimble Force are going to come on their behalf."

"Well that's nice of them." Rose replied, "I sure do hope Belle has fun with her parents. Especially with her Mother." She finished while looking sad again.

"Come on Rose!" Topsy Turvy exclaimed as she put her hoof around Rose really hard, "Don't go looking sad! Best Friends Day is meant to have happy faces! So let's go be happy together!"

Rose then looked at Topsy Turvy and smiled a bit from that bit of motivation.

"You're right." Rose replied, "Let's go have fun."

And so the six Princesses of Coltnelia went to spend time with each other for the Best Friends Day that has been cut in half so that Rose can focus on studying for the rest of the day.

The Wind Kingdom, In the Queen and King's bedroom…

Queen Lucy Twirl, a cyan-coated Fairy Alicorn mare with white eyes, a white mane and tail, a Cutie Mark representing her love for the wind, wearing a Queen crown and a royal robe, was sitting in a chair in her bedroom holding her newborn baby in her hooves. She wanted to spend some time alone with him and therefore left most of the chores to her husband for now. The baby was a yellow-coated colt with green eyes and a black mane. He was covered in white clothing and held in the hooves of his mother.

"Look at you now." Queen Lucy Twirl said to her baby with a big smile, "You're just as cute as a little orange just grown fresh for spring. I'm glad I got Star Chaser to deal with all your siblings. That way I can have you all to myself."

The baby gave a neutral reaction as he didn't know how to respond to that. Mostly because he can't talk yet, but also because he doesn't really understand what she's saying.

"I can't wait to see what kind of Prince you grow up to be." Queen Lucy Twirl continued, "Maybe you can succeed your father one day and become the next King. But of course to do that, you need to marry the mare who will succeed me as the next Queen. And that means you'll have to fall in love, forget I existed and all of the wonderful things I've done for you, leave me for a better love filled with love from a pony who isn't your mother and filled with luxury and I stay in my bed wallowing and wishing with all of my heart for you to be young again so I wouldn't have to let you go, cry for endless nights before deciding to get the special kind of cider to drink instead of solving my problems, and –"

"Hm?" The baby Prince hummed as he titled his head.

"Oh look at me." Queen Lucy Twirl said with a chuckle, "Here I am rambling on about the future and you're still just in my hooves. Let's not think about how you'll turn out right now. I just want to enjoy this one moment right here. My baby." She continued as she hugged him gently, "My little Crescent Zephyr."

She then began rocking the baby in her hooves and Prince Crescent Zephyr began to laugh a bit. After a short while, the Queen began singing softly to her baby Prince. And slowly, the baby went to sleep in her hooves. Queen Lucy Twirl looked at her baby and nearly shed a tear for how adorable he looked.

"Well tie me up and throw me down." Queen Lucy Twirl said softly, "You're just the cutest little thing. It feels so good to spend some quality quiet time with my special little miracle. If only this moment can last forever."

Suddenly, the door opened and in came Sharp Blade. The brick red-coated Pegasus stallion with a bronze mane and tail with special armor on. He is the Captain of the Royal Guard for the Wind Kingdom.

"Your Majesty." Sharp Blade said, "I come with –"

"SHARP BLADE!" Queen Lucy Twirl shouted really loudly while looking angry, "CAN YOU NOT SEE THAT I'M TRYING TO ISOLATE MYSELF FROM MY OBNOXIOUSLY BUT LOVABLE FAMILY TO SPEND SOME QUALITY QUIET TIME WITH MY NEWBORN CHILD THAT ISN'T AS A HOOF-FULL AS ALL THE OTHER MONSTERS I'M FORCED TO RAISE?!"

"First of all," Sharp Blade began, "I don't know if you have all those facts right and that rather concerns me since you're now a mother to twenty kids."

"Alright!" Queen Lucy Twirl shouted back, "What is it that's so important that you needed to interrupt?! I've only got at least ten years before this baby wants to keep himself from me! And I want to make the most of what time I have with him!"

"The Two Sisters have arrived." Sharp Blade explained, "They're in the Audience Chamber and wish to see you."

"They are?!" Queen Lucy Twirl asked with a smile, "Well lock me up and throw away the key! Why didn't you just say so?!"

"I believe I never mentioned it until…" Sharp Blade said before realizing saying it was meaningless, "Never mind."

Queen Lucy Twirl then went over to put her baby in the crib to let him nab.

"Alright little Crescent Zephyr." Lucy Twirl said in a baby voice, "You get some rest and mommy will be back for some more quiet time. Mommy's so excited!" She said in a loud excited tone, "And I can tell you are too."

She then left with Sharp Blade to greet the Two Sisters. You'd expect baby Prince Crescent Zephyr to be upset that his mother just left him alone. But the opposite was true. He couldn't stand all the excitement that his mother had and couldn't wait to go to sleep. So the moment he was in was heaven to him.

In the Audience Chamber, The Two Sisters were waiting in the Audience Chamber with King Star Chaser and his many kids. The kids that were ages 3 to 12 were asking the Two Sisters many annoying questions. Such as if the moon truly is made out of cheese and if they can bring some milk with them to the moon, and if they're using some kind of spell to keep themselves looking youthful despite being around for nearly a thousand years. Needless to say, the Two Sisters weren't very fond of their company. Cricket didn't take it any better since he was trying to crawl his way out of the crowd but was continuously getting stepped on by a filly or a colt. Meanwhile, King Star Chaser and the rest of his kids were just standing in front of them while Star Chaser was twirling a card that was floating over his hoof.

"You two make good foal sitters." King Star Chaser complimented with a smirk, "Sure you're not thinking of retiring from Queendom to become full time foal sitters? The kids really admire you."

"I'd be careful what you'd say around them Father." The 20th child warned, "They are the primary leaders of our land after all."

"They know they love me." King Star Chaser replied, "They wouldn't take what I said to heart like that."

"Just take it Queen Lua." Queen Lua said to herself, "We can do this. We will not turn these mongrels into plastic figurines and banish them to the furthest star."

Meanwhile with Cricket, he was still having a hard time getting through.

"Hey!" Cricket said as he got hit by some hooves, "Oh, ow, ow! Take it easy there!" A filly then stepped on his tail which caused him to flinch badly, "Oh!" He yelped from the pain, "Break it up, will ya?!" He asked the pool of fillies and colts.

He finally got out. Though not without getting one last kick in the back of his head. He then grabbed his hat, placed it on his head and looked back at the ruckus that was surrounding the Two Sisters.

"Lot of downbeats in there." Cricket joked to himself.

"Well, well!" An excited voice exclaimed.

All the ponies and Cricket turned their attention to the voice and found that it was Queen Lucy Twirl. Along with Captain Sharp Blade and some Royal Guards with her.

"Honey." King Star Chaser greeted with his mischievous smile, "Did the Captain catch you at a bad time?"

"Oh, not at all." Queen Lucy Twirl answered, "Greeting the other Queens of Coltnelia is always a pleasure!" She then approached the Queens, looked at her kids and said softly, "Alright now little ones. Go with your bigger siblings to continue getting ready for the celebration."

The kids didn't respond and continued jumping around the Two Sisters.

"Kids." Queen Lucy Twirl said again.

The kids once again didn't listen and just continued jumping around the Two Sisters. Lucy Twirl's patience quickly runs thin and started to get a little red and steamy. Until…

"GET YOUR KEISTERS TO YOUR FATHER THIS INSTANT BEFORE THE WEATHER GETS REALLY WINDY IN HERE!" Queen Lucy Twirl shouted at her kids.

The kids quickly stopped jumping and went over to their father as soon as they were told. And they even gave some innocent smiles to their mother.

"Mommy's scary sometimes." The four-year old colt said.

"Just be lucky you're not me when she yells at me." King Star Chaser replied.

Queen Lucy Twirl quickly calmed down to converse with the Two Sisters and Cricket.

"Well ain't I happy to see you two again." Queen Lucy Twirl said with a big smile, "It's been like what? Days since we spoke*? Good thing we can talk without any trouble brewing. You two are fashionable late as usual. Who am I to talk about fashion though? Heehee. We wear the same thing every day!" she finished with an overly cheerful tone.

(*The Fairy Pony – Part 2 in the Team Light Chronicles)

Queens Sol and Lua found themselves in a position where they could really respond to what she just said. They just looked at each other for a second and then got right back on track.

"Quite." Queen Sol replied with a smile.

"A very merry pleasure to see you too ally." Queen Lua added, "We congratulate you on your accomplishment."

"Hoohoo!" Queen Lucy Twirl chuckled, "You're too kind! Well, that's not really true because there ain't no such thing as being too kind when it comes to you too." She then looked at Cricket and said, "And it's a pleasure to see you again too Cricket."

"Oh, uh, greetings Your Highness." He said with a bow, "it has been a while."

"I'm so happy that you could join us!" Queen Lucy Twirl cheered, "It's too bad that Fire Rose decided not to come. Her father was so looking forward to seeing her. When I asked Cherry Fire about Rose, she just kept knitting that fancy quilt she always has with her. Quite a hoof she's got there for knitting. She must've been tired and was probably the reason she didn't want to talk."

"Well it was a long trip to get here." Queen Lua replied.

"Give her some time to rest and ask her again later." Queen Sol added.

"Where's Rose's sister?" Cricket asked, "Is she here too?" He said while looking rather hopeful of something.

"She's not here either." Queen Lucy Twirl answered, "She said she had some more important matters to deal with."

"Oh thank Sol and Lua." Cricket said to himself quietly, "Uh, I mean," He said loudly, "Sweet Sol and Lua. You'd think everypony would be here for this joyous event."

"My thoughts exactly." Queen Lucy Twirl replied with a big smile, "But what the hay am I doing just rambling on like this? Allow me to take you all to your rooms."

"We'd be more than glad for that." Queen Sol replied.

"WELL?!" Queen Lucy Twirl shouted at her husband and kids, "WHAT ARE YOU ALL DOING JUST STANDING THERE?!"

"W-what?" King Star Chaser stuttered as he was surprised by her outburst, "What's wrong love?"

"THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS THAT NEED UNPACKING FROM THE CARRIAGES AND YOU ALL ARE JUST STANDING THERE COLLECTING DUST WHEN YOU COULD BE HELPING THEM!" Queen Lucy Twirl shouted, "AND YOU'RE IN THE PRESENCE OF THE TWO SISTERS!"

"What?!" the 8-year old filly complained, "But Mom! There are so many carriages!"

"And the more of you join," Queen Lucy Twirl said with a calmer tone, "The quicker the job will be done, but not too quick, because it also means the more time I get to have with the new baby."

"I really think the ponies from the Sun and Moon Kingdoms have got plenty of ponies to help Mom." The 19-year old mare replied with a smile.

"Yeah." The 16-year old mare added while looking displeased, "Besides, I wouldn't want to do that anyway. We'd all pass out before we'd get anywhere near halfway done."

"Then it's a good thing I'm not asking you." Queen Lucy Twirl replied, "I'M TELLING YOU!" She shouted all of a sudden, "NOW GET OUT THERE AND HELP THE PONIES!" She then calmly said, "Except for ages 2-6. You all can go play for a bit."

"Oh come on!" the 7-year old colt complained, "I hate it when the younger ones don't have to work as much as us."

"You heard your Mother everypony." King Star Chaser said while sweating, "Let's go help with the unpacking."

"But Daddy –" The 12-year old filly complained as Star Chaser began pushing his kids out of the Audience Chamber and by extension, out of the castle.

"The beast is already hungry darling." King Star Chaser said while sweating some more, "Let's not unchain that beast."

Soon, they were gone and left the rest of the ponies behind.

"Now then." Queen Lucy Twirl said with a cheery tone again, "Let's get a move on. Follow me to your rooms please."

And so the Royal Ponies, Cricket and some Royal Guards began traversing through the castle.

"Scary." Queen Lua whispered to Queen Sol.

"I agree." Queen Sol whispered back.

Soon at a different part of the castle…

The arrived in a hallway filled with nine rooms. Each for the different Queens of Coltnelia from the different Kingdoms. Although only eight out of nine of the rooms are usually used for obvious reasons. But due to Queen Enchanted Star's absence, now only seven rooms will be used. Queen Lucy Twirl was leading the Two Sisters and Cricket to the two doors at the end of the room. Once they arrived, Queen Lucy Twirl turned to the Two Sisters.

"Well," Queen Lucy Twirl said, "Here we are!" She cheered at the end, "Your personal rooms for your stay! I made sure that they were tided up ever since your last visit! So please do make yourselves at home! Which should be easy since this castle like already like a second home to you at this point! Ring if you need anything. My servants will be more than happy to serve you."

"Thank you very much." Queen Sol thanked, "We're very grateful."

"We'll see you again soon." Queen Lua added.

Queen Lucy Twirl and her guards then left the scene and Cricket went over to the Fire Kingdom room.

"And I'll see you two real soon." Cricket said as he approached the door, "Hopefully, I'll be entering during the Queen's better mood."

He then knocked on the door to get an answer. During that time, the Two Sisters went into their respective rooms to rest up after the long journey.

Inside of Queen Sol's room, the Sun Queen smiled evilly and her horn began to glow in a dark magical aura as she got out a small orb from her robe.

"We made it to the castle." Queen Sol said to the orb.

"Excellent." The voice from the orb replied, "And did they suspect anything?"

"The Queen of Wind was talking too much to notice anything." Queen Sol answered, "Should we do the attack on them now?"

"No." The voice answered, "Wait for the right moment. Wait until there is no chance for anypony to notice anything. Get all the Queens in a quiet place and then strike. No foul ups."

"Understood." Queen Sol replied.

Meanwhile…

"Understood," Queen Sol said through the orb, "Master."

On the other side of the orb, we find the X[chi] Knight. Still in his cave. Only now, his cave has been dug up greatly with much bigger space and now has a throne room where the magical mirrors are. This new scenery was due to his newly found magical power that he has received from the Secretariat Comet. When he finished the conversation with Queen Sol, his orb deactivated and he stood from his throne to head toward another room he created.

"Everything is falling into place." The X[chi] Knight said to himself, "Everything… falls."

He then entered one of the rooms he created. The room featured nine vines created from the Void. Two of the Void's vines at the very center had Queen Sol and Queen Lua trapped in them. And their horns were glowing in magical auras. But it seemed like they were trying to stop their horns from glowing instead of causing them to glow.

"Your doubles are proving to be more help than I had anticipated." The X[chi] Knight said to them, "Soon, all of the Queens of Coltnelia will be mine. And when all of your horns come together, I will keep the Secretariat Comet over my head for all of time. And continue gathering all the magic I need to become the unstoppable, powerful Unicorn Knight that I promised I would become! Hahahahahaha!" He laughed maniacally at the end.

"N-no…." Queen Lua stammered as she struggled to break free, "T-thy….. thy plans….. shall not…."

"Queen Lua." The X[chi] Knight began as he approached her, "I pity you. The way you struggle to break free despite knowing that my Void vines cannot be broken. They will only release you when I tell them too. So there is nothing you can do to stop your horn from doing what I want it to do. Consider this my revenge against you."

"Straight Arrow." Queen Lua said while struggling, "W-w-why…. Thee used to be a valiant knight for Coltnelia… why do thee turn to the Void…"

"I have nothing to say to you 'Your Majesty'." He mocked.

"D-don't….. don't be….. so blind….." Queen Lua added.

"Silence!" The X[chi] Knight ordered as his horn glowed in an evil dark-red aura.

He then fired a magic beam at Queen Lua's face.

"Augh!" Queen Lua cried as she got hit in the cheek.

"Lua!" Queen Sol cried, "How dare you!" She scolded the X[chi] Knight.

"You had it coming!" The X[chi] Knight told them, "I had everything that I knight needed! That a kingdom needed! But you turned me away! You took away the one thing I cared about most! My hopes and dreams! Now I will take away what you care for most!"

"If you….." Queen Lua said as she looked at him with a bruise on her cheek, "Do this… you will prove why….. I couldn't let you continue…."

"Your words don't matter to me anymore!" The X[chi] Knight said with anger, "Just like I never mattered to you!" He then turned away, started walking to the door and finished with, "Once I capture your allies and gain the power I need, my first target after Coltnelia will be the deer lands."

He then left the room while slamming the big door. As soon as Queen Sol and Lua heard what he said at the end, their eyes widened and their hearts frozen in fear.

"No…" Queen Sol said with shock, "Lockhart…."

"Not our allies from the other land." Queen Lua said with shock, "Sister. I am sorry."

"Don't apologize." Queen Sol replied, "I'm the one who should be sorry. I was over confident in us."

"No." Queen Lua denied, "Not for that. For what I did years ago. If I hadn't dismissed him like I did, he would never have turned to the dark. I wish I had never –"

"Don't say that." Queen Sol interrupted, "You did your duty as Queen. You knew what was right. And don't let what he says tell you that you didn't."

"Sister." Queen Lua replied, "I wish it were that easy. I also wish I knew what to do."

"Don't worry." Queen Sol assured, "We'll figure this out. If the other Queens don't figure it out, then our student will have to be our last hope."

"Fire Rose?" Queen Lua asked, "But… do you think she's ready?"

"We can only hope that she is." Queen Sol answered, "We can only hope."

Back with Fire Rose and her friends…

The Princesses were spending half of the day together on Best Friends Day. Fire Rose was not too big on the idea at first, but as soon as the fun got started, she was extremely happy. She was having fun with her friends and was able to really laugh like she meant it. It had been years since she had ever felt as happy as she does right now. Throughout the day, the six ponies did something that each pony loved the most.

They went to an archery range where Rock Polish showed off her skills in archery and how she has improved. The five other ponies competed, but were unable to rival the skills of the Queen of Archery. The title that they have given Rock Polish.

Afterwards, the group went outside of the Crown City and into a nearby forest for a small adventure. A suggestion made by Aerial Ace. When they were out there, they did come across a lake filled with sea creatures. Seeing this as a golden opportunity, Dolphin Tail suggested that she and her friends swim with the fishes since the water was deep enough. And everything was going great with their swimming. Especially with Dolphin Tail since she could speak with sea creatures. But the swimming fun was cut short when some Doglins. Dog-like goblins who seek ponies and other animals to thieve from. The Princesses ran for a short bit before Aerial Ace got them to run into a trap she made with some sticks and rocks. While the five of the Princesses were scared to death about what almost happened to them, Aerial Ace found it fun because of the thrill of adventure. Needless to say, the others weren't fond of that comment.

They soon came across a beautiful field where the sun shines on it very brightly and the colors of the green really shine. Seeing an opportunity, Diamond Dust decided to take in the beautiful scenery they were in and stood right in the middle of it and felt the wind blowing on her coat. She was having a heavenly time with the beauty that she was in. Sadly, the scene was stopped due to Dolphin Tail making some woodland animals angry and chasing her down. Dolphin Tail has always tried to talk to land animals like Enchanted Belle and her mother, but has never found a way to do it properly. Having enough with the outdoors, the group went back to the Crown City.

The six Princesses were at a large fountain in the shopping area of the city. Topsy Turvy was putting on a show for her friends to show her ideas for the next Topsy Turvy Festival. Which was coming up very soon.

"And now…" Topsy Turvy said with a deeper tone, "Prepare yourselves for the ultimate illusion! Presenting, a dance with my hooves!"

Topsy Turvy had chains locked on her four hooves and she was bending down preparing for something. And once she bounced, she bounced off the chains, but her hooves were still on the chains. Now Topsy Turvy was left with half hooves the size of a filly.

"Woah!" The five other Princesses exclaimed with amazement.

The hooves that were on the chains began dancing around Topsy Turvy, who was also dancing around with her now filly-like hooves. The hooves danced in circles around Topsy Turvy and then performed a few tricks with her. The five Princesses were so amazed by her illusions that they couldn't help but wonder how she was doing it. Soon, she bounced right back on her four hooves. And when she unlocked the chains, her hooves were back to normal like nothing had happened.

"And that's what I like to call TOPSY TURVY!" Topsy Turvy exclaimed.

"Woo!" Aerial Ace cheered, "That was great!"

"Very well done Topsy Turvy!" Diamond Dust added while clapping.

"It's just so amazing!" Dolphin Tail cheered, "How do you do all of that?!"

"I could tell you." Topsy Turvy answered while getting off her stage, "But where would the illusion be?"

"You always have something planned for your festivals, don't you?" Rock Polish asked.

"Of course." Topsy Turvy answered, "Always gotta make sure my festivals are topsy turvy enough. If not, then it's not a Topsy Turvy Festival."

"And everypony loves the Topsy Turvy Festival." Diamond Dust added, "Even me."

"Of course you do." Topsy Turvy replied, "So, Rose." Topsy Turvy said as she turned to Princess Fire Rose, "What'd you think of that show?"

"It was a fun show." Fire Rose answered with a smile, "I really enjoyed that."

"You look like you've been having fun so far." Aerial Ace commented, "You see? You really did need a break from all that studying."

"Yeah." Rose replied, "I suppose you were right."

"Hey Rose." Dolphin Tail began, "The tests that are coming up are the last tests before the break, right? What do you have planned for the break?"

"Well," Rose began, "I –"

"Because if you don't have anything planned," Aerial Ace interrupted, "Guess what! Dolphin Tail's family is going to Waterfall Gulch during your break. And they invited all of us to join in! Oh man! I've been wanting to go to that gulch my entire life! It's supposed to be the largest gulch in all of Coltnelia! And there's even a rumor saying about a hidden treasure among the gulch that can only be found through some kind of ancient code! That sounds like a challenge I'd like to take on!"

"Waterfall Gulch?" Fire Rose asked.

"Yeah." Dolphin Tail joined in, "Mommy and Daddy said that they need a break from all the royal duties after the celebration. So they want to take a vacation with the whole family. And they said that you all can come with us since we all made up."

"Fire Rose," Diamond Dust said, "We'd be more than happy if you joined us. It can be the six of us all together in the most gorgeous of waterfalls. Not to mention some of the cleanest water in all of Coltnelia. That gulch is clearly one fit for a Queen. Or at least a future Queen in my case."

"What do you say Rose?" Rock Polish asked, "Wanna come with us?"

"Please say yes!" Topsy Turvy shouted, "Don't make me have to make you say yes! Trust me, I have the illusion to do it!"

"Well," Rose began as she smiled a bit, "That does sound fun. And rather tempting."

The others smiled at her reaction and hoped for the best. However…

"But I can't go." Rose finished with a disappointed look.

"Huh?!" The five ponies exclaimed.

"You don't want to go?!" Topsy Turvy exclaimed, "But Rose!" She continued as she got into her face, "We're going to a gulch filled with waterfalls! Waterfalls! Can you imagine all the fun we can have by riding off of them?! Who wouldn't want to experience that?!"

"I wouldn't go to that extreme." Diamond Dust joined in, "But I do agree that this is a ludicrous answer. We're going to one of the most beautiful places in all of Coltnelia. And in the best time of the year."

"Yeah!" Aerial Ace joined in, "Come on Rose! Don't be like that! It'll be an adventure! Who wouldn't want to have an adventure?!"

"I would love to go with all of you," Rose explained, "But –"

"If you would love to go, then just go with us." Rock Polish interrupted, "You're going to be on break from school. You should enjoy the time off."

"Besides," Dolphin Tail added, "What could possibly be more fun than going to a place like Waterfall Gulch? There are tons of sea creatures there that ponies don't normally see every day."

"I'd love to go," Rose explained, "But…. I want to stay and continue practicing my magic. I want to learn everything there is to it. And I can use the time I have in the break to practice. There are still tons of spells to master and tons of others to learn."

"So you're going to use your break just for more studying?" Topsy Turvy asked, "If that's the case, you shouldn't even be on break. Who studies on break?"

"Uh…" Diamond Dust said while sweating a bit, "T-Topsy Turvy's right!" She continued while sounding confident again, "Studying is meant for when school is in session. Not for when you're supposed to be out of school."

"You've got all the time in the world to practice your magic." Aerial Ace added, "And you can even practice some when you're at the gulch with us. Come on Rose."

"I don't want any distractions." Fire Rose explained, "A Unicorn's magic can only improve much faster and more efficiently if she's independent and with zero distractions. That's why I need to stay and practice. It's the only way I can master every spell known in Coltnelia."

"So you really don't want to come along with us." Rock Polish asked, "You'll miss out on one of our great outings together. Like you do every year."

"Please don't be disappointed." Fire Rose pleaded, "It's really important that I master all the spells. It really is."

"Hmmm…" Rock Polish hummed as she got a suspicious look, "Girls." She said as she looked at the other four ponies, "Can we talk in private for a moment. Rose." She continued while turning to Rose, "Stay here."

The five ponies then went over to the small waterfall near the fountain to converse privately. Fire Rose was left in suspense. Wondering what they will say when they got back.

"You see?" Rock Polish asked the group, "It's just as I had thought. Rose truly is driving further apart from us. Every time we try to invite her to something fun, she always tries to find an excuse to not be with us. And it always involves something studying that comes from the Two Sisters."

"Rock Polish." Aerial Ace whispered back, "We've been over this over and over again. Rose isn't changing. She still cares about us as her friends. She always will."

"Oh yeah?" Rock Polish asked, "Then how come whenever we want to spend Best Friends Day with her, she always says she practicing a different spell that the Two Sisters gave her? How come whenever Topsy Turvy Festival comes by, she's always sitting with the Two Sisters instead of being with us? And how come every time we try to take her on a vacation with us, she always stays at the academy with books stuck in her nose? Face it, girls. It's just as I've been trying to tell all of you. Rose is starting to think she's too good to be with any of us since she's the student of the Two Sisters now. She's been thinking like that ever since year one."

"Stop talking about Rose like that!" Aerial Ace argued, "There's no way she'd think that we're no good for her anymore. She's been our best friend since we were fillies. And we promised we'd remain friends for all of time. You saw how things went when the five of us were fighting. She always tried to get us back together. And why do you think that is? Because she's our friend. Friends are always there for other friends. Right girls?"

The others were silent. They looked rather glum and the expressions didn't please Aerial Ace at all.

"Aerial." Diamond Dust began, "I want to think that. But…"

"I mean…" Dolphin Tail continued, "Rose has… been driving apart from us over the years."

"She has been spending less time with us." Topsy Turvy said, "Nowadays, she only strives to impress the Two Sisters. And by herself nonetheless."

"No!" Aerial Ace exclaimed, "Not you girls too!"

"We're not saying we don't agree with you Aerial Ace." Dolphin Tail explained, "It's just… Rose has kind of changed. We don't really see her with us much anymore."

"Whenever we try to help her," Rock Polish said with her confident voice, "She always gives the same response. 'I want to succeed in this alone. I'll disappoint the Two Sisters if I don't'."

"I hate to say it Aerial." Diamond Dust said with a sad look, "But Rock Polish does have a point. This Fire Rose isn't the one we know and love."

"Stop it!" Aerial Ace shouted, "I don't believe it! Rose would never leave us behind for the Two Sisters! We know her better than anypony else in this land! She cares more about our friendship than the respect of two giant Fairy Alicorns! I don't mean any disrespect to them by the way, but still! If she had to choose between the world or us, I guarantee you that she would choose us!"

"So if we go over there to ask her to let us help her study and try to not take no for an answer," Rock Polish asked, "She would let us help."

"Yes!" Aerial Ace answered, "Rose will have to let us help once she realizes that we're there for her! Just watch!"

The group then broke and went over to Fire Rose. Rose gulped in fear with the thought of what they were going to say.

"Fire Rose." Aerial Ace began, "Since these tests are really important to you, why not let us help you study? I bet we can find ways to help you remember the important stuff."

"Help me?" Fire Rose asked, "You want to help me?"

"Yeah." Aerial Ace answered, "Come on. Let's go back to your room and we'll get started."

"We can look over them and get you ready together." Diamond Dust added.

"And make it fun." Dolphin Tail added.

"Studying is more fun when you do it with friends." Topsy Turvy commented, "It may not be topsy turvy, main because that's me." She chuckled at her joke, "But I'm sure I can find a way to make it topsy turvy."

Rock Polish didn't say anything. She just watched to see if Aerial Ace's theory was true.

"That's nice of all of you to consider that." Fire Rose replied with a smile, "But please, don't. I can't ask all of you to –"

"Stop." Aerial Ace interrupted while raising her hoof up, "Before you finish that sentence, let me ask you something. Did the Two Sisters deal with the Dark Ponies a thousand years ago by themselves?"

"N-no." Fire Rose answered, "Of course not. They had help from their warriors and the Elemental Amulet Wizards."

"And do the Two Sisters rule Coltnelia by themselves?" Diamond Dust asked.

"No." Fire Rose answered, "The other Queens of Coltnelia rule along with them. You all know that."

"And," Topsy Turvy joined in, "Can you walk with only one hoof?"

"What?" Fire Rose asked as she looked surprised, "Now this is just silly. No. You need all four hooves to walk. What're you all getting at?"

"What we're trying to say is," Dolphin Tail explained, "Is that you can't just expect us to have you study all by yourself. It's not healthy for one thing to keep yourself to all those books, and you'll have a better chance of making the grade if you have help from others. And we should be the help that you want."

"And not even that." Aerial Ace added, "We're the help you need. Stop with the whole 'need to do this by myself' act. You don't need to do something by yourself to prove to other ponies how great you are. So quit being a lone wolf and let's do this as a pact."

"We're here for you Rose." Topsy Turvy added.

"Always. And forever." Diamond Dust added.

"I really appreciate what you've said." Fire Rose replied, "And I really see the point you're trying to make. And I do wish I could ask all of you to help…"

"Then just do it!" Aerial Ace exclaimed, "Don't wish for it! Just ask us to help!"

"I can't." Fire Rose replied while looking sad, "I can't ask any of you to help."

"Fire Rose." Diamond Dust said as she looked angry, "Listen to me sweetheart, you've been keeping yourself to yourself for all these years and have rarely spent any time with us. Let alone let us help you with anything. This isn't the Fire Rose I remember. What about all those times when we were little and we all helped each other out when we needed it. Even you needed help sometimes and you didn't argue with that fact."

"Well things are different now." Fire Rose replied.

"They're only different because you're making them different." Aerial Ace argued, "Just because you're the student of the Two Sisters and going to this big academy doesn't mean you have to do everything alone. There are tons of ponies here who get help from others. So why can't you?"

"There's just…" Fire Rose began before taking a short pause, "It's not really something that any of you can understand."

"We would if you would try and be the Fire Rose we know and love." Topsy Turvy replied, "Come on and stop this act."

"Look." Fire Rose said as she stood up on her four hooves, "I'm sorry! But I can't ask any of you to help me study! I need to do it on my own and I'm not going to ask anypony to waste their time on me! And that's final!"

The five Princesses were surprised at how she snapped. And Rose was huffing a bit after snapping so hard. Not too hard to the point where she hurt their feelings. Just to the point where it was shocking. Rose looked at their faces and realized what she did.

"Oh…" Rose said as she looked scared, "I-I'm…. I'm so….."

Rock Polish just looked unsurprised afterwards as she predicted that they would get a sort of answer. Though the way it was presented did subvert her expectations.

"I….. I didn't –" Rose said.

"Your Highnesses!" A stallion's voice said from the side.

They group turned their heads to find a Royal Guard and a carriage fit for five ponies standing behind him with a few more Royal Guards standing around it.

"Time is up." The Royal Guard Pony said to the five Princesses, "It's time to return to the Wind Kingdom. You were promised half a day. We need to leave now before nightfall."

"Oh." Dolphin Tail moaned in sadness, "I guess we all have to go now."

"Well," Topsy Turvy said as she turned around, "I guess we better get going. Thanks for the fun Best Friends Day, Rose." She thanked while looking displeased.

"Do take care." Diamond Dust added as she followed the three ponies that were heading to the carriage, "I do hope we see each other again soon."

Aerial Ace stayed in the spot she was in and looked at Fire Rose in the eyes. Rock Polish looked back to see what was happening. She got the feeling that Aerial Ace finally saw the truth about Fire Rose.

"Aerial." Rose said, "I…"

"Princess Aerial Ace." The Royal Guard said, "Please hurry. Your parents are expecting you back."

"I'm coming!" Aerial Ace shouted, "And don't call me Princess!" She then turned back to Rose and said, "Well, I'll see you after the celebration. When that is, I have no idea." She said quietly to herself.

Aerial Ace then got on the carriage along with the other Princesses. And one of the Royal Guard ponies closed the door.

"Alright!" The leading guard pony ordered, "Let's take off!"

"Wait!" Fire Rose shouted as she ran over to the carriage.

The guard ponies stopped and watched Rose come over.

"What's this?" The leading guard pony asked, "Do you wish to join in on the celebration after all?"

"No." Rose answered, "Please let me talk to my friends for a second. It's important that I do."

The guard remained silent for a moment before saying, "Be quick."

Rose then looked through the window to find Aerial Ace's head. The others could also be seen, but not as well. Aerial just looked at Rose with a neutral expression.

"Girls." Fire Rose began, "I-I'm sorry. I didn't mean to snap the way I did back there. It just slipped out. I really do appreciate you thinking of me like that. But I really want to do this alone. I just… I can't…. I can't really explain why. It's just important that I find a way without help. Please understand. Are we still friends?"

Aerial Ace then looked back at the other Princesses. But she didn't like how their faces looked. Rock Polish looked disappointed while the others looked scared. Aerial knew that asking for their opinion on the matter was not an option. So instead, she turned back Fire Rose and gave a small smile.

"You know you can always count on us to be your friends." Aerial Ace answered.

Fire Rose smiled big from Aerial Ace's answer and could breath easily, knowing that her bond with them hasn't broken down.

"Don't worry." Aerial Ace explained, "We understand. I guess sometimes we have to face things alone. You go get them and pass that test Rose. We know you can do it."

"Thank you." Rose thanked, "And I'm sorry for not going to –"

"Stop apologizing about that." Aerial Ace interrupted, "I told you it's not a big deal. You've already been to so many. And I'm not mad and neither are my parents." She then thought about what she just said and continued with, "Well my Mom is a little steamed about how the celebration isn't perfect, but not too much." She finished with a smile.

Rose smiled back as her eyes quivered in that happiness.

"Are you done now?" The leading guard asked.

"Yes." Rose answered, "You can go now."

"Very well." The leading guard said as he turned to his comrades, "Pegasus ponies!" He ordered, "Take off!"

The Pegasus ponies that were hooked on the carriage then opened their wings and began to take flight. Carrying the carriage behind him back to the Wind Kingdom. The other guards followed the carriage to ensure protection. Meanwhile, Fire Rose was left alone. But she felt happy knowing that her friends still saw her as a friend.

"Now that I got that off my chest," Fire Rose said to herself, "I'd better get back to my studies. I think I was practicing a new spell about turning blank pages into soap."

Back at the carriage, Aerial Ace smiled at how things went. But as soon as she looked at her friends, her smile quickly vanished. She knew what the others were feeling. But she didn't feel like discussing it now and decided to just remain quiet for the entire trip back.

Later back at the Wind Kingdom…

It was the afternoon, and the sun was close to setting. The carriage carrying the five Princesses landed in the castle in the Crown City. The five Princesses went inside of the castle and found the Queen and King of the Wind Kingdom in the Audience Chamber. They were doing more practicing with their children for when they do their part of the celebration.

"Mom, Dad!" Aerial Ace shouted from the entrance, "We're back."

"Look!" the 7-year old brother of Aerial Ace exclaimed, "Aerial Ace is back!"

"It's about time!" The 16-year old sister of Aerial Ace added, "This whole thing wasn't fair since she's been gone most of the day!"

"Hey!" Aerial Ace shouted at her siblings as she and her friends got closer, "My best friend wasn't coming! I wanted to make sure that –"

"Alright, alright." Queen Lucy Twirl interrupted, "Let's not start this right now. We're all tired from all the preparing and she's tired from the trip."

"Why don't all of you take a break and we'll call you back soon." King Star Chaser told his children.

The many siblings of Aerial Ace did as they were told and went to rest up.

"So Aerial Ace." Queen Lucy Twirl began with a cheery tone, "How was Best Friends Day? What'd the six of you do? Was it sad that Enchanted Belle couldn't join? You didn't do anything dangerous or anything that filly your age shouldn't be doing, did you?" She asked as she looked suspicious, "I'll bet it was so much fun!" She continued while looking happy again, "You and your friends always find a way to have fun."

"It was fun Mom." Aerial Ace answered as she looked annoyed, "Shesh."

"I want to hear everything about –"

"Sweetie Lucy." King Star Chaser interfered, "I think our 4th miracle is a little grouchy from the trip. Didn't you just establish that a moment ago?"

"Oh right." Queen Lucy Twirl replied while rubbing the back of her head, "Sorry. I just love hearing the stories of what my little babies do with their friends. Reminds me of me when I was young. And hearing their stories makes me feel young again."

"Mom!" Aerial Ace groaned, "Can you please stop talking like that?! You're giving me a headache!"

"With all do respect Your Highness," Diamond Dust added, "We'd like to tell you everything about our fun trip. But we'd like to rest first."

"Yeah." Topsy Turvy agreed, "I'm all out of topsy turvy-ness. I need to rest my brain. And me too."

"Fair enough." Queen Lucy Twirl replied, "You all just go rest up. And when you're all rested up, Aerial Ace can join her siblings with the rehearsals like she should've done all day. And her friends can go and see what help they can be around here. That shouldn't be too hard though."

"And after the rehearsals," King Star Chaser said as he approached Aerial Ace, "I'd like the two of us to practice our little dance after the gifts are given to the newborn. I've saved a few nice dancing moves just for us." He finished as he grabbed his daughter's hoof and bowed.

"Dad!" Aerial Ace groaned, "No! I don't want to dance with you! Can't you dance with some of my sisters or Mom?"

Suddenly, King Star Chaser grabbed Aerial Ace and did forced her into a dance.

"Woah!" Aerial Ace shouted, "Hey! Dad!"

"But I'm hoping to dance with you sugar." King Star Chaser to his daughter, "After all, I haven't had a dance with you in what feels like a long time. You wouldn't want to make me sad, would you?"

"Dad!" Aerial Ace shouted with irritation, "Stop!"

"What's wrong?" King Star Chaser asked mischievously, "Your old stallion's four left hooves embarrassing you?"

Aerial Ace's friends watched the scene and couldn't help but sneak a chuckle from their muzzles.

"Dad!" Aerial Ace shouted, "Please stop! Mom!" She continued as she looked toward her mother.

"Look at you two." Queen Lucy Twirl said with her pupils enlarged, "A father and daughter having a fun dance together."

"Augh!" Aerial Ace groaned in annoyance, "Can this please just stop?!"

"Alright Star Chaser." Queen Lucy Twirl said, "Let Aerial Ace go and rest. And then you two can practice the father/daughter dance." She finished with a smile.

"Mom!" Aerial Ace groaned.

"Heehee." Dolphin Tail chuckled.

"Come on girls!" Aerial Ace said as she finally broke free from her father's grasp, "Let's go!"

And so the six Princesses got on the move to get to the hallway with the nine rooms. But before they were completely gone…

"Don't be late sweet cheeks." King Star Chaser shouted to his daughter.

"Dad!" Aerial Ace shouted back with annoyance.

As soon as they left, a guard came up to Queen Lucy Twirl to give some news.

"Your Majesty." The guard said, "I got a message from Queen Sol. She was acting strange, but she had requested to see you."

"Did she now?" Queen Lucy Twirl asked, "I wonder what she could want. Go tell her that I have some things to take care of first and I'll be with her soon."

"Understood." The guard replied.

The guard then left to pass on the message.

Soon at the hallway with the nine rooms…

The five Princesses arrived at the hallway. Aerial Ace turned to her four friends only to find that three of their faces are looking sad again. This was because of how today went with Fire Rose. Rock Polish looked unsurprised about how things went.

"I know what you all are thinking." Aerial Ace began, "And stop thinking it! There's no way that Fire Rose would stop thinking about us as her friends!"

"I'm surprised you can say that despite the fact that she kept resisting our help no matter how many times you told her how much she needs our help." Rock Polish replied, "It's like talking to a brick wall. That's a new phrase that my kingdom invented by the way."

"Well whatever that phrase means," Aerial Ace said, "It's not true! Fire Rose just wants…. Wants…. Wants to challenge herself, that's all." She finished as she finally found the words for it, "Anypony would want to challenge themselves at some point."

"And she's been doing it for years now." Rock Polish argued, "I don't know about you, but giving up any bit of a vacation you can get and keeping you to yourself even from your closest friends doesn't sound like challenging yourself to me."

"You just don't know Fire Rose like I do!" Aerial Ace shouted.

"We've all known her for as long as you have." Rock Polish countered, "I know how the Fire Rose we know should act. And this isn't the Fire Rose that I remember. And the way she snapped proves it."

"Girls!" Aerial Ace said to the others, "Come on and back me up! You know that Fire Rose wouldn't abandon us! You all should know that better than anypony! Right?"

Dolphin Tail and Topsy Turvy remained silent for a moment before looking at each other and then looking back on the ground with their sad expressions.

"I… I don't know what to think anymore." Dolphin Tail replied, "I'm just confused right now."

"Topsy Turvy?" Aerial Ace asked, "Diamond Dust?"

"Aerial Ace." Topsy Turvy joined in, "We're all tired. Let's talk about this some other time."

So Topsy Turvy and Dolphin Tail started heading for the rooms where their families are to go and rest.

"Face it Aerial." Rock Polish said, "Fire Rose has changed. And for the worst."

She then headed for her family's room to rest.

"Come on!" Aerial Ace shouted, "Fire Rose still cares about us! I guarantee it!" She finished with a smile.

But her smile quickly disappeared as she looked sad and stared at the ground. She then began heading for her room to have some alone time. Feeling for her, Diamond Dust decided to follow Aerial Ace.

Aerial Ace's room…

Aerial Ace made it to her room and went over to lie on her bed. When she did, she noticed a painting on the wall on the other side of her room and saw that the painting had her and her friends as fillies on it. Including Enchanted Belle and Fire Rose. It was a painting made of them back when they first met. Looking at the painting made Aerial Ace think about how different Fire Rose was then. And how different things were in general. If only she could go back in time and experience those times again. When Fire Rose acted like a true friend and asked for help when she knew she needed them.

"You guarantee it, huh?" a voice asked.

Aerial Ace turned to the voice and found Diamond Dust, who just entered Aerial Ace's room.

"I don't know." Aerial Ace answered while sounding unhappy, "But what else can I say?"

"I do know one thing." Diamond Dust said as she approached her Pegasus friend, "You know your friends better than anypony else. Even more than your friends know themselves. So I trust you when you say that she hasn't changed."

Aerial Ace then smiled and said, "Thanks Diamond."

Diamond Dust smiled back and the scene was becoming happier like it should be.

"I think we've had a long day today." Diamond Dust said, "I'll go rest up. You do the same."

"Right." Aerial Ace replied, "See ya later."

"Bye for now." Diamond Dust said as she headed for the door.

She then left Aerial Ace's room and left Aerial Ace with more happier thoughts.

Diamond Dust was walking through the halls to get back to the hallway with her family's room. She soon arrived at the hallway and was heading for the door to her room. She then entered the large room to find her father, King Comet Venture, and her younger brother, Prince Frozen Pride. King Comet Venture is a moderate-amber coated Unicorn stallion with bright green eyes, a platinum-blond mane and tail and a kingly crown and robe. He also had a Cutie Mark that represented his love for science. Prince Frozen Pride is a beau-blue coated Unicorn stallion with white eyes and a stylish mane and tail that were both teal. He was a crown made for a Prince and had a Cutie Mark that represented his love for being royalty.

"Princess Diamond Dust." King Comet Venture said as he turned to his daughter, "I see you have returned. Were you able to get Fire Rose to join you and your friends on the fun?"

"We did Father." Diamond Dust answered, "And… we had fun." She continued while looking down emotionally, "As far as I can tell."

"You know," Prince Frozen Pride said as he styled his mane in front of a mirror, "You'd have twice the fun if you start doing what I'm doing and actually use your royal blood to your advantage. That's what I always do on my days off. Once I show how aggressive a Prince can be, everything goes the way I want it to."

"I don't think I need to tell you why I don't do things your way Brother." Diamond Dust replied while looking away from him, "Hmph."

"Your loss little baby sister." Prince Frozen Pride said with a shrug, "What wasted potential."

"I'm older than you." Diamond Dust whispered to herself as she walked over to her father and whispered, "Let me guess. He was ordering the servants of the castle around like he owns the castle, didn't he?"

"If I had a bit for every time he was caught doing that." King Comet Venture replied.

"Heehee" Diamond Dust chuckled, "So what're you doing?"

"I'm using a spell I learned on a map to keep track of the Secretariat Comet that's passing over the Wind Kingdom." King Comet Venture answered, "I'm hoping that it will pass over this castle before we leave so I can get a full study on the comet's power. I do believe that there's more to that comet's magic than the ponies of our land expect us to know."

"A scientist's work is never done even when on vacation." Diamond Dust teased, "Anyway, where's Mother?"

"She had to discuss something with Queen Sol in private along." King Comet Venture answered as he went through his notes, "It must be some about something that only the Queens of Coltnelia can discuss. Heh. And here your Mother said that we'd all be away from work by coming to this celebration."

"Something that only the Queens of Coltnelia can discuss?!" Diamond Dust asked as she formed a big cute smile on her face.

"And now you've started the blizzard Pa." Prince Frozen Pride said.

"I know." King Comet Venture replied.

"I MUST KNOW WHAT THEY WERE DISCUSSING!" Diamond Dust exclaimed, "I MUST! THE QUEENS OF COLTNELIA CAN'T LEAVE THE FUTURE SNOW QUEEN OUT OF THIS!"

"I don't think you should try to get into that conversation they're having Dear." King Comet Venture stated.

"Yeah." Prince Frozen Pride agreed, "They only allow competent royal ponies in their discussions."

"Looks like your out then." Diamond Dust insulted, "Because you clearly can't see how fit I am to be Queen. They might as well make me one right now."

"Oh really?" Prince Frozen Pride asked as he turned to her, "Then why don't you ask Ma to let you in on their conversation?"

"I will!" Diamond Dust replied, "And I will not take no for an answer! I will show her that I can be a good Queen!"

"Do it then!" Prince Frozen Pride challenged, "I'd love to see that!"

"I already said that I will you foolish colt!" Princess Diamond Dust insulted.

"You two!" King Comet Venture said as he turned to them, "That's enough! Please try to act your ages. We're going to be in this Kingdom for a few days."

"I am acting my age Father." Diamond Dust replied, "I just wish Mother would start treating me like how I treat myself."

Suddenly, they heard the door open and they found that Queen Shiva Jewel had returned. She was an aero-blue coated Fairy Alicorn mare with blue eyes, a blonde mane and tail, a Queenly crown and robe and a Cutie Mark representing her love for the winter.

"I've returned." Queen Shiva Jewel said, "Sorry to have been gone too long."

"Not a problem." King Comet Venture replied, "I trust things went well. I hope the discussion was not to big of a bother to put a damper on things here."

"No." Queen Shiva Jewel answered, "Not at all."

"Mother! Mother! Mother!" Princess Diamond Dust exclaimed as she ran up to her mother, "Father told me you were discussing something important with the Queen of the Sun! If you had a conversation with her, then that means it's really important for all of Coltnelia! I must know what the discussion was! If you tell me, I might know what it will take to become the next Queen much faster than we think we will happen!"

"You think that, not me." Prince Frozen Pride stated.

"Uh, Daughter," Queen Shiva Jewel began as she looked unfocused for a second, "This is a private discussion between Queens only. I'd much prefer if you stay out of it. You're too young to join in."

"Rich Prince: One, Hopeless Dreaming Princess: Zero." Prince Frozen Pride thought with a smirk.

"But Mother!" Princess Diamond Dust replied, "Can't you just let me in on the news just this one time?! I'm your only daughter! That should mean I'm more special than you let on. Because I could be the only one who could succeed you one day."

"Well, uh…" Queen Shiva Jewel said as she thought about her response, "It's a rather difficult topic. So difficult that we can't discuss it now. The other Queens and I are meeting tonight in the Queens Room to have a private meeting."

"I don't ask for a full explanation," King Comet Venture said as he turned to his wife, "But can we at least get a hint toward that meeting?"

"According to Queen Sol," Queen Shiva Jewel answered, "Something's amiss in Coltnelia. She got a warning about it from a letter she got from her Kingdom."

"Amiss?" King Comet Venture wondered, "I certainly hope it doesn't mean too much danger for our marvelously wonderous land."

"I won't know until I hear what the Two Sisters have to say tonight at midnight." Queen Shiva Jewel answered, "But from how her voice sounded, it can't be good."

"Yes!" Diamond Dust agreed with a regal voice, "In fact, it sounds very serious! Don't worry Father and Brother! The Queens and I will figure out the problem and make sure that nothing interferes with our peace!"

"You can't join Daughter." Queen Shiva Jewel said with a weird look on her face, "I just said it's a private conversation."

"Rich Prince: Two, Hopeless Dreaming Princess: Zero." Prince Frozen Pride thought.

"Mother." Diamond Dust began, "I need to join that conversation! I can get some experience as a Queen and may even provide some practical solutions to the mysterious conflict. Who knows? It could be a learning experience for the both of us. You can realize that I am fit to be Queen one day, and I can learn how to deal with serious meetings like that."

"My Daughter," Queen Shiva Jewel replied while looking annoyed, "This is a meeting for the Queens. Not for immature young children such as yourself. You will stay out of this for your own good."

"But –" Diamond Dust replied.

"No arguing." Queen Shiva Jewel interrupted, "I've said my piece and my word is final. Now please allow me to have my peace and quiet in my room before midnight."

She then went to her room to have the peace and quiet she wanted. Feeling broken from how the conversation went, Diamond Dust went over to sit on a chair with a rather sad look. King Comet Venture saw how sad his daughter looked and decided to try and cheer her up.

"Now my sweet Diamond." King Comet Venture began, "Don't let what she said discourage you."

"Yeah." Prince Frozen Pride added with an arrogant tone, "She's only declined your requests like this like a million times."

"Frozen Pride!" King Comet Venture scolded, "If you can't be quiet, then leave this room!"

"Still doesn't change how many times she's failed." Prince Frozen Pride added as he left for his room.

"Don't listen to him." King Comet Venture said to Diamond Dust, "He just likes to get under your skin like he does with everypony. I know how important it is for you to be a part of discussions with the Queens. But you're only a Princess dear. Your mother just doesn't think you're ready to deal with responsibilities of a Queen right now. That's all. Perhaps one day, when you're older, she might take you under her wing and teach you everything you want to know. Try to hang in there."

Princess Diamond Dust just looked at her father with a sad look and didn't say a word.

"I know what might cheer you up." King Comet Venture said with a smile, "I noticed some delicious pies that were being made. I think some of them were cherry flavored just the way you like it. Let me go see if I can sneak some up to our room."

He then got up and left the room to go see if he can get the pies he mentioned. Feeling like she needs to rest, Princess Diamond Dust decided to head for her room. But along the way, she found her brother standing outside of his room waiting for her to pass by.

"Looks like Ma is just too tough of an ice block for you to crack." Prince Frozen Pride mocked, "I don't even know why you keep bothering to try. You're not going to become Queen one day. Because Queens actually know what it takes to be one."

"And I suppose you know what it takes?" Diamond Dust asked, "Or what it takes to be a King?"

"Uh…" Prince Frozen Pride replied as he looked red for a second, "Well…. It doesn't matter to me because I can't become a Queen. But I know what it takes to be a King one day. But if I tell you, you wouldn't understand. I mean you already don't understand how one can truly get chosen to be the next ruler. How can I expect you to understand something even simpler?"

"I would know what it can take to become a Queen if Mother would stop treating me like a child!" Diamond Dust argued.

"Maybe she treats you like one because you are a child." Prince Frozen Pride insulted, "Always throwing your tantrums when Ma doesn't give you what you want."

"I'm older than you, you know!" Diamond Dust reminded.

"Doesn't mean you're more mature than I am." Prince Frozen Pride countered, "I mean you were practically begging Ma to take you to the discussion at midnight. Who does that besides a child?"

"It's her making the mistake, not me." Diamond Dust argued, "If I were at that conversation, I bet I could find the best solution in a heartbeat. I care deeply for our land to do so."

"Oh yeah?" Prince Frozen Pride asked with a smirk, "Prove it then."

"How can I?" Diamond Dust asked, "Mother is too stubborn to let me go."

"Then don't go with her." Prince Frozen Pride explained, "Become as dark as the shadows and follow her to the conversation. Find out what they're discussing, and if you do somehow find the best solution to that situation, pop in there, and lay it on them. If they like it, then I may decide to support you. And if not, you have to be my servant for a whole year."

"Normally I would say that I would do no such thing because sneaking around is un-ladylike and deceitful." Diamond Dust explained, "But because I desperately want to gain some sort of experience, I'll do it. But just this once. And don't forget that if I do win this bet…"

"I won't forget." Prince Frozen Pride replied, "Just so long as you don't forget what happens if you lose."

"Deal." Diamond Dust said with a nod.

The two then shook hooves and the deal was set.

Midnight…

Midnight came and Queen Shiva Jewel was heading out of her bedroom and exiting the room they were staying in and heading for the hallway with the nine doors. What she didn't know was that Diamond Dust was sitting in a chair in the living room using an invisibility spell that she can cast with her dress. But because she used it once, she had to wait in order to use it again. But since it did its job, she didn't require it right now.

"Perfect." Diamond Dust whispered to herself as she headed for the door, "Now I just need to follow Mother to the Queens Room."

She then sneaked out the door while trying to not make as much noise. She followed her mother all the way to the Queens Room. Which was not a short journey to make. It took quite a while to reach and each time they got closer to it; Diamond Dust make a small ruckus that almost got her caught. She tripped over some things that she couldn't spot in the dark, hit some furniture that had vases that nearly fell over, and ran into a lazy guard that was sleeping on the job. But before he could catch her, Diamond Dust convinced the guard that it was a dream. It could be because of the cider the guard had, but it actually worked.

Eventually, Queen Shiva Jewel made it to the Queens Room and entered inside. Princess Diamond Dust followed and stopped at the door.

"Whew." Diamond Dust sighed of relief, "Just how big is this castle?"

She peeked inside through the keyhole to find her mother and all the others Queens inside, except for Queen Enchanted Star. As she watched, she got all excited to see a meeting toward the eight Queens taking place and how she got to watch it happen.

"Ooo…" Diamond Dust said with excitement, "If only Enchanted Belle's mother were here too, this would be the best night of my life. Well until I become Queen that is." She then focused back on her mission and said, "Now then, let's see what they're discussing."

Inside, we find Queens Sol, Lua, Cherry Fire, Lucy Twirl, Amethyst Harmony, Shiva Jewel, Aqua Ring, and Scarlet Rose sitting together in a large round table getting ready to begin their discussions.

"Good to see that everypony could make it." Queen Sol said to her allies, "I trust that everypony came prepared."

"Very prepared." Queen Cherry Fire answered with a nod, "Just as you asked us earlier."

"Midnight has come," Queen Lucy Twirl said with a smile, "And now we can begin."

"Then let's not waste anymore time." Queen Lua said, "He is waiting."

"Hm?" Diamond Dust said as she noticed something, "That's odd. They're talking rather funny. And who is he? Is this the crisis Mother was talking about?"

"My allies." Queen Sol said to the other Queens with a more sinister look, "Our master had provided us with even greater power now. Thanks to the comet. So now, let us remove the curtains to reveal the light of the moon!"

"Allow me." Queen Amethyst Harmony said as she turned to the curtains.

She then used her magic to remove the curtains and reveal the night sky and the bright moon that brightens the night. They each then stood from their chairs and stood in front of the window.

"Moon, shine down!" Queen Lua chanted.

The light from the moon began shining on them and their horns began to glow. Diamond Dust watched and soon saw that the magical auras in their horns began to switch colors. Instead of the normal colors that the Queens normally have, they began to look evilly red and negative. And soon, their eyes began to glow yellow.

"What's this?" Diamond Dust whispered to herself, "What are they doing? Why are their horns and eyes different?"

Soon, the glowing stopped and they broke formation.

"My magic." Queen Scarlet Rose said with a more sinister tone, "It's fantastic!"

"The power of the Void within me feels greater!" Queen Aqua Ring added.

"The Void?" Diamond Dust asked herself, "What are they talking about?" She asked as she began to looked scared.

"Now we can fulfill are master's wish." Queen Sol said, "Allow me to bring out the gifts we were so generous to collect for him. Move everything."

Using her magic, she brought up six different large white sacks that were squirming like worms. Meanwhile, the other Queens were moving the table and chairs away to make room for said sacks. Once the floor was clear, the sacks were placed on the ground.

"What are those squirmy things?" Diamond Dust asked herself while feeling disgusted, "If those things are giant worms, I'm going to feel nauseous. Maybe being a servant for a year isn't that bad of an idea."

"Heh, heh." Queen Sol snickered as she used her horn to untie the sacks.

Diamond Dust saw what was under those sacks. And as soon as she did, her eyeballs nearly popped out of her head.

"W-what?!" Diamond Dust yelped quietly, "That can't be!"

Inside, she saw that under those sacks were six of the Queens of Coltnelia, Cherry Fire, Lucy Twirl, Amethyst Harmony, Shiva Jewel, Aqua Ring, and Scarlet Rose, all tied up in a rope and their muzzles covered with cloth. They were all squirming and trying to get free and even tried yelping for help. But it was no use. And there was a strange red negative energy keeping them from using their horns. Making their magic completely useless.

"Mother!" Diamond Dust cried, "But wait! If that's my Mother and the other Queens, then who are the ones standing up?!"

As if it were to answer her question, Queen Sol and Lua and the others suddenly began to change right in front of the captured Queens. They revealed their true forms. They all turned into black ponies with yellow eyes and were twitching like insects. The real Queens recognized these strange ponies as Void Ponies. But Diamond Dust was clueless.

"What are those things?!" Diamond Dust asked with disgust, "They're moving in a very undelightful manner!"

"Didn't expect us to return, did you?" The leading Void Pony asked the Queens, "Well we're back."

"And so is our master." The other leading Void Pony added, "And he's expecting you. He needs a favor from each of you involving a kind of comet."

"Comet?" Diamond Dust asked herself, "Wait. Father mentioned something about a comet earlier. I can't remember what it's called, but could it be a coincidence?"

"We can tell you're anxious to meet him." One of the Void Ponies said, "So we won't keep you waiting any longer."

"Say hi to Queens Sol and Lua for us." Another Void Pony asked.

"Thanks to our master's newly found magical powers and our power that we can gather from the moon's light," The leading Void Pony explained, "It won't take much to get you to him."

They then began shining their horns at the same time. Soon, an evil red negative energy began to appear below the captured Queens. And the ground soon turned to black. And once it did, the hooves of other Void Ponies began to grab the Queens and pull them down. The Queens tried to fight back, but they were too strong and the Queens were unable to escape their grasp. Soon, they were all taken by the Void Ponies. And Diamond Dust watched it all happen.

"Mother!" Diamond Dust exclaimed loudly.

"Huh?!" The leading Void Pony said as it heard a voice.

"Yipe!" Diamond Dust squeaked as she covered her muzzle, "Oh no."

"Somepony's there!" The leading Void Pony said as it headed for the door.

"Ah!" Diamond Dust screamed as she began running.

The leading Void Pony opened the door to see who it was. But it didn't find anypony outside. But that didn't stop it from feeling suspicious.

"An intruder was here!" The leading Void Pony said as it took Queen Sol's form again, "Search the area and find that intruder!"

The other Void Ponies took the forms of the different Queens again and went to search the area.

Meanwhile, Diamond Dust was running back to her room. But she heard hoof steps and knew that they were after her. But she couldn't get caught as she was afraid of what they might do to her. She knows she can't fight them either since she doesn't know what they are. The Void Ponies searched the surrounding area and Diamond Dust tried to stay away from them as long as she could. She sometimes got into the same hallway as them, but was able to find a way around them. Because she waited long enough, she was able to use her dress's invisibility again. Though she did knock down a vase and almost got her caught. But she continued being inaudible.

Eventually, she made it to her room and got in before she could be spotted. She then ran to her bedroom to hide under the covers. Meanwhile, the Void Ponies reported back to the leading Void Ponies.

"We couldn't find anypony." The Void Pony posing as Queen Scarlet Rose said to the leaders, "The intruder must've escaped."

"This was the one thing our master said we shouldn't let happen." The leading Void Pony said with anger, "Now somepony knows that we're here. We can't let our mission be compromised. Tomorrow, we must find the intruder somehow and keep him/her from exposing us."

"Don't forget." The other leading Void Pony added, "We're to pose as the Queens until our master is fully powered by the comet. Once he does that, then we'll be invincible. We have to play our parts until that point. Understood?"

"Don't worry." The Void Pony posing as Lucy Twirl said with a smile, "Nothing will go wrong for us. As long as our horns maintain the rings that contain some of the Queens' magic, the Crystals won't sense that they're in danger and won't give us away."

"Still." The leader said, "We can't be too careful. Go rest now. And don't forget. Keep an eye and everypony tomorrow. For anypony could be the spy."

The Void Ponies nodded in agreement and headed back for their rooms.

The Void Pony posing as Queen Shiva Jewel went back to the Ice Kingdom room and went to bed. Diamond Dust looked through a crack from her door to see the imposter go inside. She shivered with fright as she knew that that wasn't her real mother.

"Mother." Diamond Dust said with worry to herself, "I don't know who these monsters are or what they're planning. But I can't let it happen." She finished with determination, "But if I'm going to find out what's going on, I'm going to need some help."

Meanwhile with the X[chi] Knight…

The X[chi] Knight was in his throne room, raising his horn to the sky that was visible due to a hole he made in the roof. He felt his magic growing stronger and more powerful. And what overjoyed him even more was that the comet was moving even slower than before. As a strange magic was holding it back.

"My magic!" The X[chi] Knight said to himself, "The power of the Void! I can feel its intense power rising! Hahahahaha!" He laughed evilly as he got up from his throne.

He then headed for the room where Queens Sol and Lua were to converse with them again.

"I never thought I'd ever have to thank you for anything." The X[chi] Knight said in a mocking tone, "But I guess everypony was right about you. You truly are generous ponies. Generous enough to hold this comet back for me. Soon, with your help…"

It's then revealed that it's not just Queens Sol and Lua being forced to hold the Secretariat Comet back, but the other six Queens as well. Queens Cherry Fire, Lucy Twirl, Amethyst Harmony, Shiva Jewel, Aqua Ring, and Scarlet Rose were all tied up by vines from the Void and forced to use their magic to hold the comet back. Slowing the comet even more. Needless to say, they were miserable.

"I WILL BE UNSTOPPABLE!" The X[chi] Knight finished with an evil look in his eyes, "HAHAHAHAHAHA! HAHAHAHAHAHA!" He laughed evilly.

To be continued…