Disclaimer: All MLP:FiM characters belong to Hasbro and DHX Media. I do not own any of them except for my OC.

This is an interesting way to start the day. Being in the castle in Canterlot yet again talking to Celestia about something. The last time I was here, it was to get "advice" from Celestia about how to run the School of Friendship. That was some real "advice" all right. Twilight said "Princess Celestia, I have an idea for your Onesversary!" It should be Tensversary since Equestria has been around for 10,000 years. I know the show says a thousand years, but it's isn't very realistic when you place it on the timeline, so that's why I'm saying 10,000 years instead of 1,000. Celestia said "My… Onesversary?" It's kinda confusing. Twilight said "The one thousand one hundred eleventh year anniversary of when you first raised the sun." I said "Actually it's nine thousand eight hundred fifty sixth." Twilight looked at me and said "Are you calling Pinkie wrong? Because that came from her." I said "No I'm not. That came from the Tree of Harmony which is NEVER wrong mind you so it will always override anyone on this planet. Even me. So take that."

I stared at Twilight and she stared at me. This time, her stare did not make me back down. It is extremely rare for that to happen. I guess I let my magic stand my ground. Twilight said "You know you don't always have to correct everypony when they aren't exactly on point." I said "I know, but I've done that for years so I will continue to do it. I've always had to be accurate. It's what I live by. Besides, the number was way off mainly because Hasbro has to say 1,000 years, but actually makes no sense on the timeline since not everything lines up." Twilight said "It's not how long it is, you always have the nerve to correct any creature that opposes your views." I said "Yes I do. But it's only for what's right. In the past, it was because I was blind and ignorant and didn't know anything. But now that's changed. Besides, I don't care if anyone opposes my views. That's fine. Everyone can have their opinions. But certain things I will not allow. It doesn't matter to me if anyone is offended." Before Twilight could say anything, Spike said "Uh, anyways, good thing Pinkie reminded us, or we woulda forgot to celebrate."

I said "I wouldn't have." Twilight gave me a stare, but I rolled my eyes and went inside the wall. Celestia said ""You're not the only ones. What did you have in mind?" Probably a play showing the backstory and history behind it. Twilight said "To commemorate your first sunrise, I've written a play." What did I tell you? "We'd like to perform it at the School of Friendship. If you don't mind." Sure, I doubt she would. However, she started giggling like a little girl which was really cringey and unprofessional. Thankfully, there was no one else in the room because that would be pretty embarrassing. Celestia said "Ooh! Mind? Oh, of course not! Oh, I think a play is a fantastic idea!" Okay, now this is really cringey. Spike asked "Did she just… prance?" Yes, she did Spike. Don't know why, but she did anyway. Celestia noticed this and said "Oh. Forgive me for getting so excited." We will Celestia. You're considered family here.

"I-it's just… When I was a filly, my friends often put on plays." I bet they did. "Oh, it was so wonderful, everypony coming together to create a magical experience to share with others." It is pretty nice. "I've always believed theatre brings out the best in us, and forges a special bond of friendship." I don't know. I mean I agree with that statement, yes, but there are a lot of other things that bring out the best in us. It's not just theatre. Twilight gasped in amazement and said "*gasps* I didn't know you used to act." She didn't Twilight. She had to keep up with magic lessons so she could become the next ruler of Equestria and take her place in the Circle of Life. Yes, I know that's from the Lion King and I stole it, but it would make sense here except the rulers don't die after reaching old age unless they give up their immortality or do a resurrection spell. Celestia said "Oh, not me. I was always too busy with my magic lessons to be part of any plays myself." It would make sense. "But still, it's something I always wished I could experience." Your wish is my command! HA! I'm kidding. Yeah, that's not happening.

Twilight said "And you still can!" What do you mean Twilight? "Princess Celestia… we would be honored if you would be the star of our play!" Yeah, okay Joe yeah that's nice. Hey hang on a sec. WOAH! HOLD THE PHONE! WHAT?! THIS WASN'T PART OF THE PLAN! ARE YOU NUTS?! Spike asked "We would?" Twilight didn't tell me this was part of the plan. Celestia was just as shocked. She asked in shock "You want me to star in your play?" That definitely seems like a bad idea. Spike asked "Yeah, when did that happen exactly?" I said, coming out the wall "You did not mention squat about Celestia being the "star" of the play." Twilight just smirked and said "If you'll excuse us for a second..." Yeah, I don't think so. "Don't you see, guys? It's perfect! Princess Celestia has always wanted to be in a play, and this one's about her!" I said "I don't know. I'm still very skeptical about that. Have you even sat down and think about this for a second? You need to think logically, not just what makes sense to you." Twilight gave me a glare, but I stood my ground. I am technically right. Spike said "I guess… But how are we supposed to give her directions? She's the ruler of Equestria!" He does raise a good point.

Of course, Twilight had to counter with that by saying "She's also our friend." So? What difference does that make? "Celestia's always kind to everypony." Not those who commit crimes against the crown. "So if we have a chance to finally do something for her, we should!" I'm still not sure. "C'mon, how many times has Celestia helped us?" That's not going to change my mind. You're going to have to try harder than that. "Guided us. Been a warm calming voice over our shoulder-" before Celestia said "Twilight?" which scared both Twilight and Spike. I knew it was coming and it was COMPLETELY ironic. If you understand the context, you know what I'm talking about. If not, well read harder. Twilight said "Yes, Princess Celestia?" Celestia said "Your invitation is very kind. But are you certain it's wise? I have no acting experience at all." I raised an eyebrow in suspicion at Twilight and she just said "Experience? Pssh! You'll be playing yourself. And we'll all help you." Just because you're playing yourself and have no acting experience, that does NOT mean it will be a breeze. It's like that for anything that requires skill.

"Please? It'd mean so much to the students if you were in our show." I think they would be more happy if I returned to the School of Friendship which is not happening anytime soon or ever. Just the cold hard truth. Celestia said "Well, if you're sure... " Twilight just smiled and looked at Spike who sighed and said "Yeah, what she said." She turned to me and I said "Fine, if that's what you want. But I don't support this idea at all and I don't give a crap if that offends you." I went into my shadow form and headed out of the castle. I did hear Celestia say "Then I would be delighted to join your theater troupe!" Once I got back, I heard Pinkie say "Woo-hoo! Confetti is ready! Hoo hoo!" Applejack got ticked and said "Wormy applecores, Pinkie! How many times have I told ya to keep your special effects away from my sets?" Probably a lot. Pinkie replied "Three hundred twenty-seven. Ooh! Unless you just DID. Then it's three hundred twenty-eight!" That's oddly specific.

I said, presenting myself out of my shadow form and into my lion form "Does it really matter how many times she told you?" Applejack said "Oh, and of course, the king returns." I said "Not quite yet, Applejack. I'm still a prince, but I will eventually become King one day." Applejack asked "What do you mean?" I said lighting my scepter and demonstrating "A princesses' time as ruler rises and falls like the sun. Eventually, the sun will set on Celestia's time, and will rise with me as the new ruler as King. It's part of something called the great Circle of Life." Rainbow said "Like that will ever happen. I mean, come on. You? A King? Kings are considered evil in this world." I said "I'm telling you it will happen. And let me tell you something. Lions were ALWAYS meant to be kings. And how do you explain Thorax? He's a King. So what's the difference?" Rainbow said "Uh, uh, uh. Well, he's just ruling the Changeling Kingdom and this is all of Equestria." I said "No, there is no difference." I heard Starlight say "I can't believe you've memorized your lines already, Fluttershy."

Fluttershy said "Once you get past terrifying, paralyzing stage fright, the rest is easy." I don't know about that. "Now I just hope Princess Celestia says we can do our play." I said "You'd be surprised. Twilight really should have sat down and thought about that first." Fluttershy said "I'm sure she has a good reason for asking the Princess." I just laughed hysterically. I said "Do you actually think Twilight has a good reason? I don't think so. It doesn't actually make sense from a logical standpoint. I mean, according to Celestia herself, she has no acting experience. It's not exactly a breeze for you if you don't know. If you sit down and truly look at it, you'll realize how flawed it is and see where I stand." Rarity said "Oh! As soon as she sees these fabulous costumes, all she'll be able to say is "brava!" We'll see about that. Rainbow said "Heads up! Here comes our answer." Oh goodie. I already told you what the answer was you dimwits. Twilight said "Wonderful news, everypony!" I said "How about ditching the whole thing and actually sitting down and looking at this logically?"

They all gave me annoyed stares and I just gave a low growl in annoyance. I went somewhere else to get away from them, but I still wanted to hear the conversation. Applejack said "Yeeeha! We get to put on our show?" *sighs* Yes, Applejack unfortunately. I know all you people are probably saying "Why are you being such a grinch at this?" Answer. Twilight's "big" idea to have Celestia as the "star" of the play. Also, it's how I'm built too, so deal with it. No excuses. Twilight said "Even better. Princess Celestia is gonna be our star!" Wow, I'm so excited! I'm gonna pee myself. Yeah, honestly I don't care. I'm being sarcastic for the uneducated and uncultured people here. "How about you just keep your mouth shut, Zach?" Excuse me? I went up to her in my shadow form and said "Care to repeat that so you can say it to my FACE?!" Twilight said "You heard what I said." I said "Oh. I see. Well, let me tell you something: YOU ARE NOT MY MOTHER SO DON'T TELL ME WHAT TO DO! YOU GOT THAT?!" Twilight nervously nodded and I said "Good. That's what I thought. Now if you excuse me, I have more important things to do right now than to be fooling around with a stupid play."

Everypony gasped at that, but I was already gone before anyone could do anything. Spike said "Yeah, that's how I felt, too." Twilight said "He always does that. But not to that extreme. I'll have to talk to him about that later." OH NO! I DON'T THINK SO! I regret nothing. Rainbow said "Celestia? Starring in our play? This is huge!" Well, that subject changed quickly. Twilight said "well, she was a little nervous at first, but I told her not to worry." And that's where you're an absolute idiot for thinking that. "UGH! He always drives me nuts sometimes." Everyone looked confused and I just shook my head. "Uh, oh. Me and Zach have a mental link, so we can read and hear each other's thoughts. That's all." Thanks for the explanation, Twilight. "With us helping, it'll all go smooth as... " before getting interrupted by Rarity who said "Silk! I must find the silk!" You're overreacting. Chill. "If Celestia is going to be in our play, we have to take everything up to the next level! None of these old ideas will do!" Really? You're having a breakdown JUST BECAUSE CELESTIA IS IN THE PLAY?! HOW DUMB ARE YOU?! MY GOSH! THESE PONIES THESE DAYS! UGH! WHY DO I EVEN SOCIALIZE WITH THEM ANYMORE?!

Pinkie said "Yeah! Forget my regular party cannon. For princess-size effects, we're gonna need "Big Bertha!" Oh dear. I'm so scared. Not really. But I'm nervous. Applejack was ticked off and said "Grrr… Pinkie!" Pinkie said "What?" You better be careful with that weapon, big boy. Rainbow said "Our play is gonna be AMAZING!" HA! We'll see about that. "I gotta tell everyone I know! And even the ones I don't!" Of course, Rainbow JUST HAD to fly up and cause a sonic rainboom, so whatever. Applejack asked "Why in tarnation are y'all gettin' so star-struck?" Because they're acting like little kids in a candy store. "We've met Princess Celestia before. Plenty of times." Of course, Starlight's argument was "Those were formal things, galas, world-saving. This is different." How? "Imagine doing sweaty warm-ups with a princess. Blowing your nose in front of a princess. Sitting around just… talking with a princess." You really have bumped your head haven't you? Twilight said "I'm a princess. You talk to me." I said "You also talk to me as well."

Of course, Starlight said "That's different. You're not a princess princess. Same thing about you Zachary." Twilight said "Uh… thanks." I said "You really don't know me, do you? I am a prince prince. I have authority over ponies who refuse to listen to my orders. Also, I do all sorts of weird things. I don't care what Celestia thinks. I mean, yeah, I still respect her, but I don't shake in fear when I'm doing "socially awkward" things in front of royals. I'm just that savage. And besides, you've seen me get fierce. I know when to put my foot down. Saying I'm not a prince prince is quite the understatement. Because I can terrify anyone in a matter of seconds. Anyways, toodles!" I disappeared again and went under the bleachers to hear the conversation. Twilight said "Celestia wants to experience the special friendship that theatre ponies have." Which is what? "To give her that, you just need to be yourselves." Well, that doesn't give a good explanation on what you're talking about. Fluttershy said "You… you really think so?" That's an understatement. Applejack said "Heh. Aw, quit frettin'. It's only a coupla pals gettin' together to put on a Onesversary play. What could go wrong?"

I said "NEVER ask that question! History has proven time and time again that saying can turn things for the worse." Rainbow said "You're worrying over nothing. That won't happen." Enraged, I said "Fine, then I will set a curse upon this world to where if anyone says that, then things will turn UGLY for them." I raised my scepter and put the curse in place and then disappeared into thin air. I heard Spike say "Places, everypony. We're here to rehearse "A New Day in Equestria!" Oh, goodie. This sounds like Theatre class in high school. I never took the class because I had no interest in it, but I knew what happened in there because of classmates that took the class. Twilight had to be annoyed and said "Ahem!" Spike rolled his eyes and said "Directed, written, and produced by Twilight Sparkle." Why did she even need to add that in there? That's the stupidest addition to a play I've ever seen. Sounds like a spoiled brat move to me. Twilight said "Page One, Act One, Scene One. Action!" This is a literal snoozefest.

The curtains opened and Fluttershy began to talk. She said "Once upon a time, before Celestia, Equestria was suffering terrible hardship. Raising the Sun every morning was so hard, it took five great sorcerers plus Starswirl the Bearded to do it." Fluttershy motioned for Pinkie to open up the floor and I used my magic to raise the sun just for further emphasis. "And every day, the unicorns helping Starswirl would use so much magic, they lost their powers… forever!" Oh, the terror! "Things looked bleak." I can only imagine. "Soon, Equestria would lose all of it's magic-users!" Okay, now that's a problem. If that happened, ponies wouldn't be able to control their world anymore because they couldn't raise and lower the moon everyday. "Then, the land would be covered in darkness for eternity." She did some weird thing, and then I used my magic to lower the Sun back into the ground while Pinkie closed back up the hatch. I heard Twilight say "Even I can't believe how good my play is." I admit, it's not bad, but it's not the greatest thing I've ever seen.

"The sets, the props, the outfits, they're all great!" I guess, but I've heard better statements than that. Spike nodded and said "And, here comes the best part." This will be a disaster. The curse will take hold right here. Fluttershy said "But then, a student named Celestia discovered she had the power to raise the sun herself, without draining her magic!" Celestia came out and just waved. Oh dear. This is so cringey. But this is part of the curse I set upon this land. The Tree of Harmony granted me approval to do it to prove a point about using that phrase. Twilight said "Um… that's your cue, Celestia." This has only gotten worse. Celestia said "Oh! Right! Of course. Ahe-heh-hem. *says softly and awkwardly* It is time for a new day in Equestria." I have never heard of anything that cringey in my life. I don't mean to insult her, but that was really bad. Spike said "Um. What? Oh, uh, I said… It is time for a new day in Equestria." I've never seen a performance so bad in my life. Even those that get embarrassed on X Factor look good compared to this. Twilight said "And your delivery was… great." Are you stupid or something? I think you have drinked the kool aid this time. "But maybe you should try it a tiny bit louder. For the ponies in the back row."

Celestia said "Oh, yes, yes. My Royal Canterlot Voice." OH NO! NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO! BAD IDEA! "Thank you for the reminder, Twilight!" I put up my shield and let her fire away her weapon. "*says very loudly shaking the Earth a little bit* IT IS TIME FOR A NEW DAY IN EQUESTRIA!" Well, that did shake things up more than I expected. Celestia said "Oh, goodness, this theatre does have strong acoustics." That's not even an understatement. Remember Celestia that this isn't the castle in Canterlot where things are built with very strong materials and have built-in insulation to prevent these things from happening. "My apologies." You are forgiven, Celestia. No hard feelings. "I'm still learning to "hone my craft." What the hay is that supposed to mean? Twilight, being the wuss she is sometimes, said "No, no, you're doing… fine." You're just trying to spare her feelings, Twilight. It will come back to bite you later on. "Why don't we try it one more time?" How about we ditch this plan and find someone else to play the role of Celestia? Does your ignorant brain get that? "Just like you're talking to me." It's much harder than that.

Celestia said in a robotic voice "It is time for a new day in Equestria." That's just really creepy. Twilight said "A bit more energy." I think that won't work either. Celestia says in an overdone voice "It's time for a new day in Equestria!" Now that's really weird and cringey. This curse is stronger than I thought it would be. "Uh… How was that?" Applejack said "Honestly... ?" before Twilight came and said silencing her "Great! Wow! It's hard to believe you've done this before! Let's move on to the dance number." The truth will NOT be ignored! And if you're ignoring the truth, then you're ignoring the Tree of Harmony and ME! I don't think so. You won't escape this one, Twilight. The Tree of Harmony will make sure of that. I saw Spike doing the dance number and say "Again! Step, buck, leap, touch… Again! Step, buck, leap, touch… Got it? Movin' on. Five, six, seven, eight!" Celestia said "Come on, Starswirl! Throw off that musty hat, and let's have a-a dance!" That's really cringey. She threw the hat and landed on the lever which opened up the floor and the poor students fell through. "Oh, dear. I think we have a problem." Yeah. THIS WHOLE PLAY IS A DISASTER!

Applejack said "Yeah. Our lead actress is a disaster!" I was starting to get really annoyed at this point and gave Twilight the angriest stare I could without being my death stare. That caused her to tremble in her place because she knows that she's ticked me off now. We were all standing together while Twilight was having another one of her "episodes" if you're picking up what I'm putting down. She said "What are we gonna do?" I said "Tell Celestia the truth and have someone else replace the role?" Twilight said "No! If I tell Celestia she's terrible, it'll hurt her feelings. And I'll be a bad friend. But if I keep her in the show, she'll be the laughingstock of Equestria. And I'll be a worse friend!" Applejack said "Zachary is right, Twilight. You need to tell Celestia the truth." Twilight asked "Any other suggestions?" Spike said "Why don't we just cancel the show?" Now there's an idea. But there will be a problem with that in a minute. Twilight said with annoyance "Real suggestions?" That is a real suggestion, you dimwit.

However, Spike didn't back down. He said "No, think about it. Right now, most of Equestria doesn't even know we're doing a Onesversary play. If we shut it down…" when Rarity said "Nopony will ever miss it!" Starlight said "So they'll never find out Princess Celestia is a bad actress." Fluttershy said "And she won't be embarrassed." Pinkie said "Ah! It's the perfect plan!" I said "That's a good idea, but it's not logical anymore." Twilight said "What do you mean?" I whistled for Rainbow and she came back saying "All right! I just finished telling everypony to come to our play!" Twilight asked nervously "You… did?" Rainbow replied "Yeah! You should've seen how excited they got when they found out when Celestia was in it! They said they'd tell their friends, and then their friends tell their friends! Everypony in Equestria is gonna see this thing!" However, everyone was in a state of panic. "Uh, did I miss something?" I said "Nope, everything is just fine. You can go along now." Rainbow said "Okay." She dashed off and everyone was giving me angry stares. Twilight said "You seriously tried to sabotage this play on purpose?!" I said "It was bound to happen, Twilight. Deal with it. If you think you can escape from this, you are sadly mistaken."

Twilight glared at me and then said "It's ok. If we can't cancel the show, I know what I have to do." Applejack said "Be honest with Celestia and give the lead role to somepony else?" Twilight said "Not a chance." You can't do that. Applejack said "Twilight, you know truth is a huge part of friendship." I said "Applejack is right. The truth is ALWAYS better than a well meant lie. By doing that, you are not only betraying the trust of everyone, but you're also betraying the Tree of Harmony." Twilight said "But so is making another pony's dreams come true!" I said "But is it really worth telling a lie to your mentor just so you could "make her dreams" come true and spring her feelings?" Applejack said "He raises a good point, Twilight." Twilight said "Look, I promised Celestia that this time she could be a part of the play instead of just watching it. And I plan to keep that promise." I said "It doesn't matter if this is a dream or not. You don't tell lies just to spare feelings. Even if you did hurt her feelings, it will only get worse as time goes on if you continue to wait. The truth will find you out and you cannot escape that at all no matter how hard you try."

Twilight just continued to glare at me, but I stood my ground because I was right and the Tree of Harmony was basically 100% behind what I said. Fluttershy asked "But… how are we going to keep that promise?" Acting lessons probably." I headed over to the School of Friendship, but had my spirit go inside since I'm banished from campus grounds. I heard Celestia say "You want to give me acting lessons?" Technically, yes. Twilight said "No no no no no no! More like, a special workshop with other actors. To… take your performance from good to flawless!" You're fooling no one at this point. Twilight gave me the angriest glare she could, but it had no effect on me. Celestia said "Thank you so much, Twilight! This is what I always knew theatre must be about. That special stage pony bond of shared trust and honesty." I said "HA! That ain't happening here." Celestia said "What do you mean?" I was about to say something before Twilight put a hoof on my mouth and said "It was just a joke. He does that a lot." No I wasn't joking, you dimwit. Spike said "Yeah. That's what it is." Twilight opened the door and said "Princess Celestia? Meet Method Mare performers On Stage and Raspberry Beret." This will be fun.

The stallion said "Avec pleasure, your Majesty." Celestia said "The pleasure is all mine!" For some reason, a lot of mares seem to say that. "If there's anything to become a better Equestrian thespian, I will! What do you have planned?" I have no idea. The stallion said "Well, I thought we'd make it up as we go along." Oh, that sounds like a good idea. NOT! "Otherwise known as *says in bad French accent* "improvisation!" That was a REALLY BAD French accent. I'm sure if any French native heard that accent, they would shame him really badly. The mare said "Yes, and we can start as soon as we get out of this box!" Really, that analogy? What's with all the French stuff today. Do ponies suddenly like France for some reason? I guess so. Celestia looked very confused and I don't blame her. But I've seen this a million times, so I know the analogy with this concept. Celestia said "What box?" It's an invisible box. I went back over to the stage to see how things were going and boy were they bad. Of course, Twilight came over and asked in worry "How's it going over here?" I don't know, you tell me. Rainbow said "That Sun will never rise again." Oh, dang that's really bad.

I said "If that happened with the real Sun, this planet wouldn't even exist anymore because of a supernova or even hypernova." Pinkie said "That's why I have something even better!" A yellow balloon? That's a good idea. But the curse will do something. Rarity said "It's the perfect substitute!" Wait for it. The balloon popped and lost a lot of air in a matter of seconds. Rarity said "It was the perfect substitute." I said "Well, that was bound to happen. It was never really tied down. So it was just part of the curse." Twilight said "I can't even believe you would do that." I said "I only did it because the Tree of Harmony needs to teach you a lesson about lying to ponies you trust and since I'm the guardian of the Tree of Harmony, I decided I was going to execute that." Twilight just sighed heavily and went away. I went back inside the school with my spirit and sat all the way in the left corner right in front of the door. I heard Twilight say "Please give me something to be happy about." The curse I set won't let that happen.

The stallion said "Let's try visualization!" Let's not! "And… you're skiing!" The mare said "Oh, it's so snowy today! Brrr… I'm getting chilly!" Celestia asked "Should I get you a blanket?" It's a visualizer, Celestia. She's not actually cold! As a kid, I always took things literal because I see things black and white, there's no color in between. But as I got older, I started to see more and more color in my life. Nowadays, as a 24 year old man, there's almost no black and white at all. However, I don't blame Celestia for not understanding this because she's a reflection of me when I was a kid and teenager. The stallion said "All aboard! The Ponyville Express is leaving the station! Woo! Woo! Chugga chugga chugga chugga!" Celestia said "It is? I don't see anything." I don't think Celestia understands visualization that well. It's so bad that I'm practically embarrassed to admit I used to be just like her. The mare said "Let's be weeping willows in the wind!" What's that supposed to mean? "We are strong in adversity, yet supple as we bow to fate." I have no idea what that means, but okay. The stallion asked Celestia "Well? What do you feel?"

Celestia said "Nothing." I would have said the same thing. I felt nothing either. Maybe I'm just stupid or something, but I sensed nothing at all. I didn't feel anything. Don't blame me for not feeling anything because this was really confusing. "Oh, the classroom floor is under my hooves." HA! That's hilarious. At least it's something. "Does that count?" Unfortunately, no. But I thought it was pretty good. Twilight just facehoofed in frustration and I left to go back to see what was happening with the play. Once I got there, Twilight teleported and said annoyed "Do I want to know?" I don't know. It depends on the attitude you're feeling and what the curse feels like doing. Pinkie opened up the hatch and out came a giant marshmallow sitting on a giant stick. Why do I feel like this is going to be a bad idea?" Pinkie said "Wait for it…" The marshmallow became aflame and started to catch fire. I see the visual, but that's overkill. I raised my scepter and blasted the marshmallow with water which caused both Twilight and Pinkie to get wet. I gave a death glare at Pinkie and Applejack was ticked off too. Pinkie said "What? It's realistic." That is true, but you could catch the whole stage on fire and cause serious property damage which would lead to become known as the pony who burned down the stage because you thought it was a good idea to have a burning marshmallow so that it could be "realistic."

"The sun is just like a burning marshmallow." I said "That is true, but you could cause the entire stage to catch on fire and result in serious property damage which is going to leave a LOT of ponies ticked off." I went back to the school to see how things were at the School of Friendship. Mind you, I'm still having my spirit wander around the school so I don't violate the agreement I made with the EEA and get charged with more crimes. Twilight came in soaking wet and somehow used magic to blow dry her mane off which was incredible in my opinion. She asked Spike "What are they doing now?" A bunch of weird dance moves? Spike replied "The simplest act they could think of: A game of Charades." Oh, yeah it kinda looks like that. The mare said "A puppy! A duck-billed platypus! Antidisestablishmentarianism!" What? I have never heard that word before. Is that an actual word? That doesn't sound like one. If it is, let me know in the reviews section once this chapter is done. "Oh, I give up! What?" Celestia said "My love for Equestria and all of the ponies in it!" Uhhhhh… okay. I would have never been able to guess that and I don't think anyone else could either.

If that's what you were trying to say, you kind of have to do a better job of doing that. No hard feelings, Celestia. I'm just saying. "Twilight, you felt what I was emoting, didn't you?" I don't think so. Twilight said in a really creepy voice "...Yeah!" There's absolutely no way you could have understood that. If you say that, then you are delusional. Spike said "Now that's the best acting we've seen all day." Ouch. That hurts, but I would have said the same thing. Spike over here is just balling with extremely brutal statements. Finally, after a long day, it was night time and the play was about to start. The seats were starting to get filled and things were not looking good. Twilight said in panic "Ok. I tried, and tried, and tried. But we have to face facts. We can't make Celestia an actress. So there's only one thing to do." I said "Tell Celestia the truth after a million years?" Twilight said "NO!" Everyone else groaned while I just had about enough. I said "How much longer are you going to escape this, Twilight? You have already waited all day to not tell Celestia the truth, and now you are still refusing? How long are you willing to wait? No matter what you do, the truth will be revealed."

Twilight said "I have wanted to do this for a long time and I am going to do it whether you like it or not. No curse or Tree of Harmony can stop me from getting what Celestia has dreamed for." Oh, so you want to play that game eh? Now you've ticked off the Tree of Harmony. I said "Now you really have the Tree of Harmony ticked off." Twilight fired back "I don't care how the stupid Tree feels. It's just a tree for Celestia's sake. No Tree can ever influence everyday decisions and it cannot stop me from what I'm trying to do." I said "You are sadly mistaken. The Tree of Harmony will unleash it's wrath at you by unleashing something that you won't expect coming." Twilight said angry "FINE! Bring it if it's that powerful!" Oh, you did not just do that. The Tree's anger is boiling hot. "Anyways, I've rewritten the script to give Celestia a more "artistic" part. With no lines." That's kind of boring, but whatever. Pinkie said "And to make sure the show's a hit, I've whipped up the biggest, bestest, flashest fake Sun ever!" She pulled the lever and OH MY GOSH! WHAT IS THAT?! THAT IS HIGHLY DANGEROUS!

Twilight said "Pinkie, that looks… unsafe." Exactly. That could kill someone. Pinkie said "Why would untested magic fireworks that I bought in a back alley from Trixie at midnight be unsafe?" WHAT?! I think it speaks for yourself. If you have common sense, you know that is incredibly stupid. Why, Hasbro? WHY?! WHY DID YOU HAVE TO MAKE PINKIE THIS STUPID?! If Twilight gets killed or anypony else, I'm blaming you and filing a lawsuit against you. Suddenly, the fireworks went off and I had to get inside the walls for cover so I wouldn't get hit. Then, there was a giant rocket firework and it caused a MASSIVE explosion. The audience wondered what was going on in here. It left everyone and everything in a mess. Finally, Twilight snapped after having enough. Here it comes. She said "Aaaah! I can't take it anymore! It was supposed to be a simple play! Just one simple play! And then EVERYTHING goes wrong! From the stage, to the props, to the stupid Tree of Harmony, right down to the worst lead actress in EQUESTRIA!" And now the curse has taken full effect now and the Tree of Harmony has given justice! Everyone gasped and Celestia was standing right there upset. Man, did she look ticked off.

Celestia said "Twilight. If you honestly felt I was a bad actress, why didn't you tell me?" Because she was trying to "spare" your feelings. Twilight said "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to insult your acting. It's just… I got so stressed." That's still no excuse for not telling the truth. She bowed for some weird reason and Celestia just stared at her strangely which I don't blame her. That was really odd. "But that's no excuse for what I said." FINALLY! YOU ADMIT THAT YOU WERE WRONG! YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW LONG I'VE BEEN TRYING TO GET TWILIGHT TO ADMIT THE TRUTH! "You have every right to be upset with me." She technically does. Celestia said "I'm not upset because you insulted my acting." Twilight was surprised at this and asked "You're not?" I think I know why. Celestia said "I'm upset… because not only have you insulted the Tree of Harmony and it's guardian, but also in all the time we've known each other, I thought I'd taught you about the importance of friendship, trust, and honesty!" She spread out her wings and flew away. Dang, Celestia still has that fire in her this late in her rule. That was pretty impressive. Twilight said "Celestia! Wait!" You have really messed up this time.

Twilight spread out her wings and went out flying, but Pinkie stopped her. She said "No! You can't fly away now! Look!" Oh dear. Fluttershy said "Ponies are taking their seats for the show!" This isn't good. Rainbow said "Heh heh. Standing room only! Did I do a good job of advertising for this thing or what?" Everyone gave angry stares and I said "Now's not the time to be talking about that." Rainbow said "What do you mean? You initially told me to do it." Now everyone shifted towards me. I said "That was not me. That was the Tree of Harmony's doing. It can make it's own decision and this is not about me. It's about not trying to brag about advertising for a play." Rainbow said "Sorry." Sure, you are. Starlight said "We can't put on a show with no lead actress!" I know what we need to do. Applejack went up to Twilight and said "You go find Celestia. We'll figure out how to stall this thing till you get back." I spread out my wings and sprinted after Celestia. I heard Spike say "Good luck! Nopony's gonna volunteer to try to tame that!" Of course, being the dare devils they are, Rarity said "Nopony indeed." They're gonna put Spike out there. Hope he does okay.

I was flying right behind Celestia, but when I heard Twilight coming, I went into my shadow form and hid in a cloud. Twilight said "Princess Celestia! Please wait! Can we talk?" I doubt she wants to speak with you right now. Celestia said "I'm afraid I haven't much to say, Twilight." Told ya. Twilight flew up right beside her and said "All right then, just listen. You've guided me since I was a filly. You've given me knowledge, and advice, and friendship." I doubt that will do anything. "Just once… I wanted to be able to give something back to you." Not at the price of betraying someone's trust by lying to them just so you could "spare" their feelings. "I know what I did was wrong." Yes, it was and the Tree of Harmony is very disappointed in you. "I should've told you the truth. But I promised you could be in our play!" Yeah, look how that turned out. "I had to make it work." well, it didn't, so you might as well forget trying to hide it anymore. "Nothing would make me feel worse than knowing I disappointed you." You already did and the longer you wait, the worse it will be. Celestia asked "You really mean that?" I'm sure she does.

They flew up onto a cloud and I followed as well. Twilight said "Of course! I look up to you more than anypony I've ever met. I'd hate to let you down… like I did." Yeah, you really screwed up this time. Don't look at me that way. It's called tough love. Deal with it. Celestia said "Oh. You had good intentions, Twilight." Doesn't matter what your intentions are. The truth is ALWAYS better than a lie. "But you know that the truth is always better than a well-meant lie. Didn't Applejack remind you?" Yeah, both her and me reminded her a million times. Twilight sighed and said "Yeah, and Zach did too about a hundred times. And now, because I didn't listen to either of them, I've ruined your whole Onesversary." I wouldn't say that. Celestia said "Well, I don't know about that. Isn't there an old saying "The show must go on?" Yes, there is. That's a saying from back home on Earth. "There may be a way for us to save the play yet." How are we going to do that? Twilight asked "But how? I mean, if I'm being completely honest… You're not an actress." But that's not going to stop Celestia from letting the play go on.

Celestia said "No, but I am a princess." That is true. However, there is one more thing that needs to get done. I came out of my shadow form and into my lion form saying "I think you're forgetting something." That scared both of them and they jumped. I said "What? I'm not that terrifying." Twilight said "What are you doing here? You know not to eavesdrop." I said "You know not to lie to ponies." That shut her up. After laughing a bit, I said "Anyway, the reason I'm here is something I need to take care of." Twilight said "Which is what?" I said "Well, you not only insulted Celestia, but you also insulted me and the Tree of Harmony." Twilight said "Oh. I… I didn't mean to!" I said "I know you didn't. But you must remember that the Tree of Harmony has the most powerful magic in Equestria and it won't allow anyone to mess with it. It's power should not be underestimated. I know it's wild to believe that the Tree has feelings, but it's true. You made it feel betrayed and you got it's anger boiling hot. That's why it did what it did. It came up with the curse, and I cast it because from the very start, it was trying to teach you a lesson. It only leaves me with one choice."

I came up to Twilight and she was trembling very heavily. I could tell she was scared to death. I pulled her close and into a hug. It completely shocked her and she hugged me back very tightly. She said "I'm so sorry! I got so stressed! I shouldn't have underestimated you or the Tree of Harmony!" I said "It's okay. But we can discuss this later. We must get this show on the road." I spread out my wings and headed back to the stage where the play was taking place. However, I started to hear boos. Oh dear. They didn't take that stalling very well. I heard Spike say "Good news, free food. Bad news? This play is officially a disaster." I disagree with that. I said "I don't know about that." They turned around and Celestia said "Fortunately, I know a thing or two about how to deal with those." I think so. Starlight said "You came back!" Of course, we did. I might have been the most enthusiastic about this play, but I'm not going down without a fight. Celestia said "Yes. But let's celebrate later. Right now, we have a show to do!" That might be a challenge though.

Rarity said "But-but-but how? The audience is about to RIOT! We have NO backdrop! And our lead actress is… !" before Celestia saying "No longer in tha role." Yep. I said "Let me take care of the audience. I know how to handle revolts and riots." I dashed out and stood in front of the audience. I said in my royal Canterlot voice "SILENCE!" That got their attention and shut everyone up. "Good. The play will start in one minute. So just sit tight. And if ANY OF YOU THROW SOMETHING OTHER THAN ROSES, I WILL BANISH YOU TO THE BADLANDS! That's it." I went back inside and everything was ready to go. Spike said "Once upon a time, before Celestia, Equestria was suffering terrible hardship. Raising the Sun every morning was so hard that it took five Unicorn Sorcerers plus Starswirl the Bearded to do it." Everyone started laughing and I thought it was ridiculous. Hecklers. I don't like those people because they just ruin everything. Some pony said "You call those great sorcerers?" I said "KEEP YOUR DANG MOUTH SHUT, YOU DIMWIT!" That pony looked offended, but I gave my death glare at her and she backed off.

I heard Twilight say "Oh, no. Hecklers!" Yeah, they suck. Absolutely drives me nuts. "What should we do?" Hmmm. From what expression Celestia is making, I have an idea. She said to Spike "Spike! Improvise!" That's your way around hecklers is by improvising so they don't ruin your jokes. Spike said "Yes! And… uh… raising the Sun each day was super-draining. But you can see that for yourselves, right? I mean, do these guys look beat up or what? Starswirl's so stressed he's got kinks in his horn!" That got the crowd to laugh again, but for something that is actually meant to be funny. Hecklers are dumb and stupid. Unless a play or show is really bad, hecklers have no place to criticize anything. And don't give me the "It's a free country and I'm allowed to have an opinion" excuse. It has NOTHING to do with that. It just ruins the experience for everyone. If the show is bad, do as much as you like. But if it's good, keep your stupid mouth shut. End of conversation. "But that's OK." Of course it was.

"Cause it turns out, Celestia had the special power to raise the Sun all by herself!" I admit it's pretty incredible. Fluttershy said "It's time for a new day in Equestria!" Oh crap! I forgot about the Sun! I looked over at Twilight in worry and she panicked to Celestia who said "Agh! In all the commotion, we forgot we don't have a Sun! What do we do?" Yeah, we need something and quick before the audience starts to boo again. But I'll defend against that. Celestia replied "We play Charades." Ahh! Clever. But less stalling and more moving. Fluttershy raised out her hoof and me and Celestia actually raised the Sun. Yeah, the scepter can raise the Sun with just as much ease as Celestia. The power to raise the Sun can be granted and be taken away if used for evil. Man that was pretty beautiful. Celestia said "Judging by how many flowers the audience threw, it seems our play was a success." Thankfully, I didn't have to use my power to restrain the audience and have to banish someone to the Badlands because they threw a beer bottle or something. I know that was a little extreme, but that seems to work every time and gets everyone to shut up, so I do it anyway.

Fluttershy said "I just feel bad you never got a chance to actually be in it." Don't be. It's better this way. Celestia said "You shouldn't. I never felt I had to be on stage to be a part of the show." She makes a good point. "All I ever wanted was to share an honest bond of creativity, artistry, and happiness with my friends." It took a while, but we eventually got there. "And that's exactly what I got to do." Yeah, it feels nice for everyone to have their part in the play. Twilight said "Thank you for saving our play, Princess Celestia." You really owe her one Twilight. Celestia said "Your welcome, Twilight. But from now on, none of you will have to call me "Princess" anymore." I have never called you princess, so why are you saying this? "I had so much fun tonight, I've decided to give up my crown, step down from the throne, and devote all of my time to the theatre!" WHAT?! NO NO NO NO NO NO! I AM NOT READY TO TAKE YOUR PLACE AS KING OF EQUESTRIA QUITE YET! PLEASE TELL ME SHE'S JOKING! Twilight was even more shocked than me and said "You… what?" The Circle of Life has not taken place yet. Celestia said "Gotcha. Maybe I'm not such a bad actress, after all." Bruh, I'm so mad and impressed at the same time.

I'm impressed because that was good acting, but I'm so mad because that's not funny. This is serious business. It's already hard enough to be prince as it is, being King of all Equestria would be even worse! They all just laughed and I grunted in annoyance. I flew back to the castle and finished up my royal paperwork for the day. I heard Twilight come in and I said "You need something?" Twilight said "I really am sorry that I got mad at you and underestimated the Tree of Harmony. I know better, but when you get stressed, things happen." I sighed and said "You don't think I know that? I know this thing like the back of my hand or paw in this case." Twilight asked me "What do you mean?" I said "Follow me." I spread out my wings and went up onto the clouds that sat above the castle. Twilight followed me up there and sat across from me. I said "I have had so much experience with this, I couldn't tell you how many times I've done the same thing you did today. That's why I kept telling you to tell Celestia the truth. Well, one of the main reasons why." Twilight said "You had this same issue?" I said "Yeah. I sure did. If you look at the moving pictures of me as a kid, you'll see I made lie after lie and it pushed me farther apart. I honestly was so stupid back then, and I still am but I always try to be a better person."

Twilight said "Zach. You are not stupid. Why do you always continue to think that?" I said "Because of my troubled past. Especially that bitter betrayal. It really tore me apart and I just wasn't the same after that. I will probably never be the same ever again." Twilight said "It doesn't matter how your past turned out. You can't let it control who you are." I said "What even am I anymore? I don't know who I am anymore. I used to have an identity or I thought I did, but now I have no identity." Twilight said "Of course you have an identity! You're everything I could have asked for! Zach. You need to stop always looking at the negative and focus on the positive." I said "It's easier said than done. It's very difficult for me since my stone cold heart refuses to move on. I want to move on, but my burdens and stubbornness won't let that happen." Twilight said "So let it go." What? "You heard me." I said "How do I let it go?" Twilight said "Just forgive that person in your heart even if you may never see them again." Well, now that I'm here in Equestria, I probably will never see Hannah again, so that's a bonus. But I don't know if I could do that. "I know you have it in you to forgive her." Twilight flew down and went back to the castle.

I laid down on the cloud and sighed. I looked up at the stars and thought really hard. Should I forgive her? No, I can't do that! She betrayed me, made me question my identity and place in the world, and caused my heart to turn to cold hard stone. I know it's wrong to hold grudges against people, but I have no idea how to move past this and forgive her. Should I go back? No, she probably already forgot me and is living her own life. Also, I can't leave Twilight just to forgive someone I barely even knew, so that idea will be thrown out the window. Ugh! I don't know. I have no idea why I'm making this so hard, but as a broken human turned lion, it's easy to understand why. Tons of people struggle with these things and so many people hate the saying from Jesus in Matthew "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." I have always despited that saying for years, but I knew that it was truth. So I don't know. I'll have to sleep on this. I flew down and went back to my bedroom quickly falling asleep and dreaming. Maybe one day I could forgive her.

AN: This was an interesting chapter! This episode literally speaks to me whenever I watch it because I used to lie so much when I was young, but dropped it as I got older. Also, I am very sorry that chapter 39 took forever to post. I have no idea what happened and left me very confused and upset. But I found out that I wasn't the only one suffering this issue because of people complaining on Twitter about it, so it made me look less like a fool. Yeah, I actually felt like something was wrong with my computer and I was being stupid, but nope. Everyone else was having the same issue. So hopefully, this won't happen again. Anyways, I know there are a lot of Lion King references in this chapter, but that's just because it's one of my favorite movies and I love to apply it to MLP which is my favorite show of all time. So hopefully, you guys understand that. Hope you guys enjoyed the chapter.

Next Chapter: Returning to your hometown! The map calls Starlight and Sunburst to their hometown Sire's Hollow which of course leaves them very unenthusiastic about it because they have issues back home over there that caused them to be the way they are today, so they venture off to Sire's Hollow. However, Zachary like always, follows them out of curiosity and listens on what happens. It reminds him of his past and tries his best not to get emotional. Meanwhile, Starlight and Sunburst get very irritated at their parents and lashes out at them. Unfortunately, they realize that is their friendship problem. Will they be able to mend their relationship with their parents, or will it remain forever broken?

Until then, my fellow readers