Friendship is Magic: The Seventh Element

by Master Mr B

"When the sixth element is revealed, a special element can appear that is a combination of the other six. It serves as the controller that bounds the power if the six elements together. But nobody, not even the royal sisters, have ever uncovered this...Seventh Element..." Follow my OC as he takes part in the adventures of FiM. And possibly win the heart of Twilight Sparkle...

151. Celestial Advice

Celestial Advice

Pony's Log Number 701: Sometimes the best wisdom a teacher can seek is advice from the very pony who taught them...

One morning, Spike went to Starlight's bedroom and knocked on her door. Starlight wasted no time opening it. She didn't see anypony at her eyes level and finally saw Spike as she looked down.

"Hey, Spike," said Starlight as she stepped out of the room, "What's up?"

"Just, uh, wanted to make sure you're ready for your big ceremony today," said Spike in a rather nervous tone.

"Yep!" Starlight replied. Behind the lilac unicorn, Twilight teleported into the room, "Wow, I still can't believe my friends, Twilight and Mario's newest daughter, and I are getting medals of honor." Behind her, Twilight told Spike to keep quiet as she got to work with some measuring tape and a clipboard, Spike had his head tilted to the side to watch the purple alicorn as she spoke.

"Are you kidding?" Spike replied as he discreetly tried to watch Twilight as she was measuring the wall behind Starlight's dresser, "You totally deserve it! After all, you...saved Equestria from...Queen Chrysalis! With the help of Trixie and Thorax and Discord and Shenran and Diamond Tiara and..."

"Uh, yeah," said Starlight as a matter of fact, " I know what happened. I was kinda there."

"Uh, right," said Spike, trying to continue to stall until Twilight was finished, "Uh so...what are you wearin'?" Starlight was surprised by that question.

"Not sure," Starlight replied and pondered aloud, "Why? Am I supposed to dress up?"

"No!" Spike interjected quickly, "I-I mean, you could. It's like Rarity always says..." Spike then shaped his top scales to look like Rarity's mane as he impersonated her, "There's no such thing as being overdressed, darling. You're just the best-looking pony in the room." Spike then chuckled as his top scales returned to normal. He then quickly tilted his head to see if Twilight was finishing up or now. At the moment, the purple pony was jotting something down on a clipboard.

"What are you looking at?" Starlight asked curiously and went to look back, but Spike quickly grabbed her head to keep her from turning around.

"No, don't look!" Spike yelped and then Twilight saw him give a quick nod and teleported away. Spike quickly went for another cover up, "'Cause there was a spider there, but it's, uh, gone now, so, uh...thanks, Starlight! Byeeee!" Spike then zoomed away as fast as he could. Starlight looked back to find her room empty and saw nothing out of the ordinary.

"Huh?" Starlight asked, but just suspected nothing as she headed back into her room and closed the door.

Elsewhere, Diamond Tiara was in her bedroom, using a low handle bar to do some pull ups, which was rather impressive since she was holding the bar by curling her fore-hooves. She was also wearing a sweatband instead of her tiara, a tank top, some basketball shorts, and some matching bands around her fore-legs.

[Diamond Tiara - Singing as she went up and down on the handle bar.]

I wanna be the very best, that no one ever was,
To catch them all is my real test,
To train them is my cause.

I will travel across Equestria
Searching far and wide
Each technique to understand
The power that's inside!

Ponymon! Gotta catch 'em all
It's you and me, I know it's my destiny!
You teach me and I'll teach you!
PONY-MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOON!

"Di, are you sing the Ponymon training camp song again?" Spike asked, "Such creatures aren't real you know. Just their fighting techniques. You can't catch em all!" Diamond Tiara just rolled her eyes as she let go of the handle bar.

"Sorry! I just get more motivated singing it while I'm doing my exercises," said Diamond Tiara as she grabbed a towel to wipe her sweaty brow, "if I'm gonna be as good as Mario in parkour as well as keep getting stronger in Ponymon battles, I gotta keep building up my Earth Pony strength and endurance. So what's up?"

"Just wanted to check up on you, ya know, cause I care," Spike remarked as a matter of fact.

"Oh, I see," said Diamond Tiara as she grabbed a glass of water to take a drink and then set it back on her side table, "anything else?"

"Well, I wanted to know if you're ready for the big party or not," Spike replied.

"Not at the moment," said Diamond Tiara, "I'm probably gonna take a shower first to clean up. Unless a certain little dragon used up the hot water...again."

"Hey, I haven't done a seven-hour bubble bath in years," said Spike, "Anyways, I'll let you get cleaned up now. See you later, Di."

"Sure things, Spike," said Diamond Tiara with a smile as Spike left the room. The little filly hadn't noticed that Mario, using an invisibility spell, had done some fast measurements of the filly's neck before teleporting away. Inside the couple's master bedroom, Twilight and Mario were just pacing back and forth while checking a list together. Spike then walked inside the room with a smug looking smile on his face.

"Ha-ha! They had no idea," said Spike, "We're a good team, Sparkle and Star!"

""Sparkle"?" said Twilight.

""Star"?" said Mario. The two alicorns laughed.

"Yeah, we are," said Twilight, "So do you think Starlight will like it? I wanna show this present to say, "I'm so proud of you both as a mentor and a friend. Equestria is safer thanks to you"."

"Oh, I thought you were getting her a mirror like yours," said Spike. He then pointed to a mirror that Twilight had containing various pictures of both friends, family, and her husband.

"I am," Twilight replied.

"Uh, maybe you should get her a card 'cause I don't think the mirror will say all that," Spike remarked, "But I think she'll like it."

"Thanks for the honesty, Spike," Mario remarked with an eye roll.

"It's just what her room needs," said Twilight, "The first thing she'll see when she wakes up is herself surrounded by all her friends." She then looked into her own mirror and smiled, "I plan on giving it to her after the ceremony."

"And what about Di?" Spike asked.

"Oh, we've got something very special for her," said Mario, "In fact, we've got two presents for Di. The first present is for saving Equestria. The second present...actually, we can give that present to Di right now!"

"Didn't you forget she was going to take a shower?" Spike pointed out, reminding Mario that he was in the room secretly as the little dragon was talking to the filly, "and speaking about the castle. Don't you two need to get the castle ready for the celebration?"

"Nah," Twilight replied, "Pinkie Pie's got that covered."

"She said she'd summon me if she needed help," said Mario, "But I think she can manage on her own."

In the room where the party was going to take place. Pinkie quickly looked around for a moment. Then she pulled a rope chord. This set up all the party decorations and tables in just a couple of seconds.

"Phew!" Pinkie replied since her job was done...easily.

(Main Theme)

Just before the party was about to start, The Mane eight and Starlight had gathered together in the throne room. Diamond Tiara was curious as to why they were all gathered here since Mario and Twilight had told her to follow and trust them.

"Um, so what this all about Mom?" Diamond Tiara asked curiously.

"Just take a seat," said Mario, "The Flower Sprites have something special for you."

"Really? What is it, master?" Diamond Tiara asked, now feeling rather excited.

"Take a seat and find out, sweetie," Twilight replied as the pink filly rushed up to her chair and took a seat. Diamond Tiara then gasped when she felt something on her flank glow. She turned to see that her cutie mark was now glowing. An after image of her cutie mark then hovered over the map and then plunged into it. A bright light appeared above Diamond Tiara's head. She looked up as her cutie mark now appeared on her throne chair!

(Cue "The Cutie Map has expanded!" fanfare)

Diamond Tiara can now be summoned for Cutie Map missions!

"Awesome!" said Diamond Tiara, "Guess I really am meant to be part of the counsel."

"Of course you do, sweetheart," said Twilight, "Why would you think you didn't?" Diamond Tiara just smiled sheepishly and blushed.

"Let's just say that before we found out you had all be replaced by changelings," said Starlight, "your fakes were really mean to her, saying she didn't belong with the group." Twilight used her magic to pull the filly into her lap and held her close.

"Well, I wouldn't have made you my daughter if that was true," said Twilight, "because I love you so...huh?!" Twilight was then cut off and soon everypony else was staring at Starlight.

"What?" Starlight asked.

"You're flank is glowing too!" Shenran remarked. Starlight's jaw dropped slightly as she looked and found that her cutie mark was glowing. Then an after image of her cutie mark entered the map and soon it appeared on the top of her throne.

(Cue "The Cutie Map has expanded!" fanfare)

Starlight Glimmer can now be summoned for Cutie Map missions!

The others cheered as Starlight's jaw hung open.

"Wow!" said Mario in amazement, "Two more ponies to help us spread the magic of friendship! And we haven't even started the party yet!" Diamond Tiara and Starlight just smiled sheepishly.

Then the party had begun. The room was packed with guests from all over Equestria. They were all gathered toward the back end of the room, which had been turned into a stage for the big ceremony. Twilight and Mario were at the center of the stage with Celestia and Luna right behind her. The rest of the Mane eight were off to the right side of the room. Surprisingly, Cadance and Shining Armor were able to make it to the party after all. Flurry Heart, however, had fallen asleep and was snoozing some place quiet for the time being. Diamond Tiara was overjoyed to see them again. On the stage with Twilight, Mario, Celestia, and Luna were Trixie, Thorax, Shenran, Discord, Diamond Tiara, and Starlight.

"Starlight, Diamond Tiara, Trixie, Thorax, Shenran, and Discord were brave in the face of danger," Twilight spoke, "resourceful when things got challenging, and proved that the bonds of friendship, no matter how unlikely, are stronger than any adversity." Several Ponies smiled in the audience, especially Night Glider, Party Favor, Sugar Belle, and Sunburst, who waved at Starlight. Starlight saw the orange unicorn waving and smiled timidly at him.

"By stopping Queen Chrysalis, not only did they save Equestria, they set the changelings free from her reign," Twilight continued.

"Go, Discord!" said...a Discord copy wearing some sportsfan items on himself, "Yahoo!" He then laughed heartily. Starlight and Diamond Tiara giggled as Trixie and Shenran looked at each other and rolled their eyes.

"Should've seen that one coming," Mario remarked bluntly as Twilight glared in agreement.

"And that's why," Celestia continued, making Mario and Twilight feel a tad embarassed, "we're proud and honored to give them the Equestria Pink Hearts of Courage!" The special medals were resting on a pillow, which was on a special pedestal. The crowd cheered as the six heroes bowed respectfully. Celestia and Luna placed the medals around the necks of Starlight and Trixie. Discord, showing off, disconnected his head from his neck to get his medal on. Thorax, due to his new antlers, gave Luna a hard time as she was trying to get his medal on.

"Yeah! Oh," said Pinkie when she realized Luna was struggling and winced, "Oh, no. Not quite. Uh..." Then Luna finally got the medal around Thorax's neck, "Ah. There it is! Yay!" Poor Luna was sweating heavily, but Celestia smiled at her for a job well done. Mario then held a single medal in his magic grasp as well as a gold sword.

"Shenran, would you please step forward and kneel before me?" Mario asked as the Pegasus stallion walked up and knelt down like a knight. Mario then placed the medal around Shenran's neck.

"Shenran, thousands of moons ago," said Mario, "your ancestors rescued the changelings from the tyranny of a selfish ruler and you have helped to do the same for the current changeling generation." Mario then held the golden sword and tapped Shenran's shoulder, "I now christen thee, Sir Shenran, Equestria's first Keyblade Knight of Friendship." The crowd cheered as Shenran stood up and smiled.

"I LOVE YOU SHENRAN!" Fluttershy screamed with glee, but then froze when she saw everypony was staring at her. Fluttershy just blushed heavily and sank behind Rarity, feeling very embarassed. Shenran chuckled as Mario gestured for the Pegasus to go comfort his wife.

"Diamond Tiara, would you please step forward now," said Mario as the filly timidly walked up to both Mario and Twilight as the latter held her medal with his magic.

"When you first came to us," said Mario, "you were looking for a better path in life. A path far more fulfilling than the path set before you by your...ahem...previous mother." Ponies outside of Ponyville looked puzzled as those who lived in Ponyville kept smiling.

"During such a short time," said Mario, "You often questioned who you were and worked hard to become a better pony. You have grown so much and have matured greatly ever since. And you have captured the hearts of both myself and my wife." Mario and Twilight shared smiles with each other.

"Diamond Tiara has only wanted one thing more than anything in Equestria," said Mario, "and that was a family that would make time for her and help her grow to become the pony she is truly meant to be. So it is with great honor we call Diamond Dazzle Tiara our own daughter!" The crowds smiled. Silver Spoon and Cutie Mark Crusaders all got teary smiles on their faces.

"We love you so much and we are very proud of you!" said Twilight as she put her medal around the filly's neck. Diamond Tiara smiled as tears poured from her eyes as she rushed toward her new parents and they shared a group hug. The crowds awed and cheered for the new family. A few seconds later they let go as Diamond Tiara joined the others wearing medals. Twilight stood before them once more.

"We are so proud of you all!" said Twilight.

"Congratulations to each and every one of you!" Mario added as the crowds cheered and applauded. Starlight and Trixie looked at their medals and exchanged smiles with each other.

"Way to go, Di!" Silver Spoon shouted as she and the Cutie Mark Crusaders cheered for her, making the tiara-wearing filly smile and turn her cheeks light pink from all the praise. Twilight and Mario just exchanged emotional smiles on their faces.

A few minutes later, Mario was at some loudspeakers and the DJ turntable with Equestria's most famous DJ.

"Take it away, DJ-Pon3!" Mario told her as the white unicorn put on some music and several ponies began to dance. A few others were just enjoying themselves. For the moment, Diamond Tiara was with Silver Spoon and the Crusaders.

"I know you're probably tired of this, but..." said Silver Spoon, "But we're so proud of you!"

"Yeah, congrats on both the medal and getting a new family, Di," said Sweetie Belle.

"Thanks everypony," said Diamond Tiara as she fiddled with her student mini-braid with a fore-leg. Apple Bloom then blinked.

"Wait a second here, Di," said Apple Bloom, "If Mario's adopted you, do you know what that means?!" Diamond Tiara looked puzzled for a second, but then gasped when she figured it out.

"I'm related to Apple Bloom now!" said Diamond Tiara, "Wow, who would've thought that would happen?"

"I know right," said Apple Bloom as she walked up to the tiara-wearing filly, "You're an apple now. And my...my...hmm...how are we related..." Apple Bloom pondered for a moment and then cringed.

"What's wrong, Apple Bloom?" Silver Spoon asked as Mario approached the group of fillies.

"If Mario is my older brother," said Apple Bloom with a long face, "That means Diamond Tiara is my...my niece!" Diamond Tiara's jaw dropped. The others were stunned and then began to laugh. Mario looked at the with funny looks.

"What's so funny?" Mario asked, seeing his new daughter and little sister looking very uncomfortable.

"Auntie Apple Bloom was congratulating her new niece Diamond Tiara!" Scootaloo laughed as Silver Spoon and Sweetie Belle were in stitches. Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara were so embarassed that they couldn't even look at each other. Mario pondered for a second and then realized that they did share a aunt-niece relationship now.

"That might be the official ties on paper," said Mario, "but I have no problem with you calling Apple Bloom your sister instead."

"We can?!" Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara together.

"I don't see why not," said Mario, "You're relatively the same age so I can see why being an aunt and niece would be awkward. Besides, Diamond Tiara still has Filthy Rich for her father and I'm her teacher and friend. I'm sure nopony else would mind if you just called each other sister. In the end, Di is family and that's what matters the most."

"Aw, I kinda liked the idea of Auntie Apple Bloom," Scootaloo remarked with a snicker.

"One. Day," Diamond Tiara and Apple Bloom warned the orange filly at the same time. They exchanged looks with each other and laughed.

"I would feel better calling you my sister than my niece if you're okay with that," said Apple Bloom.

"I wouldn't mind that one bit, Sis," said Diamond Tiara as the two shared a warm hug with each other. Mario smiled. Just a short distance away, Trixie was with Sugar Belle, Party Favor, and Double Diamond.

"It was the Great and Powerful Trrrrixie's pleasure to save you from your imminent doom," Trixie boasted.

"Yes," said Discord as he made himself appear out of her hat, "because you did it all by yourself." Trixie was most annoyed at being called out. Starlight just watched the scene a short distance away and giggled to herself. It was then Sunburst walked up to her, along with a green and cyan changeling.

"I can't believe you managed to do it without magic," Sunburst told Starlight, clearly impressed.

"It was amazing!" said the cyan changeling.

"No one's ever stood up to Chrysalis like that!" added the green changeling.

"Oh, I just did what anypony would have done," said Starlight modestly with a fore-hoof over her heart.

"Diamond Tiara was also amazing as well," said the cyan changeling.

"Especially when she went alicorn on Chrysalis's guards," the green changeling added, "and stood up for us. It's no wonder Thorax is so fond of her."

"Don't forget Shenran," said the cyan changeling, "He took Chrysalis in a fight and defeated her. And we thought only Mario could do that!"

"He and Di will always be welcome to the changeling kingdom!" finished the green changeling as Starlight smiled. From a distance, Twilight was just watching the conversation unfold with a smile on her face.

"It's a wonderful feeling, isn't it?" Celestia asked as she walked up to the purple alicorn, "Watching your student shine the way you always know they could." Twilight laughed as Mario arrived beside her.

"My cheeks are sore!" said Twilight, "I don't think I've ever smiled this much in my life!"

"I can only imagine the feeling," said Celestia, giving Twilight a wink and walking off. Mario was feeling a little down.

"Aww..." Mario groaned sadly, "None of our romantic moments ever topped this?" Twilight blinked and then blushed.

"Oops, my bad," said Twilight, "Actually I can think of quite a few moments where you made me smile so much my cheeks were sore. In fact, I can remember the day we confessed our love for each other. I woke up the next morning to find my face was stuck in a smile. I had to message my cheeks for an hour just to get the feeling in my face to come back." Mario just raised an eyebrow at her.

"You're just saying that, Twilight Sparkle," said Mario. Twilight then gazed into his eyes and wrapped her fore-legs around his neck.

"Would I ever bluff about how happy you make me, Mario Star?" Twilight asked in a flirty tone. Mario chuckled.

"No, of course not," Mario replied and they leaned in for a kiss.

"Oh, ain't this romantic!" said a voice, ruining the moment as they both groaned and pulled away as they saw a certain draconequus watching them.

"Bad timing as usual!" said Mario annoyingly.

"I try," Discord replied as he snaked himself around Twilight's torso. Mario took offense.

"Do you have to do that?" Mario remarked.

"Why not?" said Discord innocently, "It's not like its gets under your skin and makes you super jealous." Mario growled and blushed.

"You know I don't like it when you do that, Discord!" Mario remarked, referring to Discord's habit of getting under a pony's skin for his own fun and entertainment.

"Getting back to the subject at hand," said Discord, purposely ignoring Mario's remark, "Yes, Starlight is student of the year, isn't she? So is little Diamond Tiara, your daughter too, right? They have so much potential. So, what are we going to do with them? And by "we", I definitely mean "the two of you". Being their mentors and all that, their destiny falls squarely on your haunches." Discord then poked both Twilight and Mario's noses.

"Wow, you're actually gonna let us control their destinies and not get involved?" Mario remarked sarcastically, "How kind of you!"

"With pleasure," said Discord, ignoring the fact Mario was being sarcastic. It was then Twilight teleported out of Discord's body grip.

"Oh, you don't worry," said Twilight, "I've planned enough friendship lessons to cover the next three years." Discord stared and then laughed. Twilight took offense as Mario just kept a emotionless expression on his face.

"What's so funny?" Twilight asked skeptically.

"No, no," Discord replied, "I mean...Mario what about Diamond Tiara's destiny?" Mario pondered for a moment.

"Well, saving Equestria has certainly proven that Diamond Tiara has advanced greatly in the magic of friendship," said Mario, "there might not be much more I can teach her directly about that, but this adventure has revealed that she has love magic. So I might be focusing more on helping her tap into that magic. It'll be tricky since she doesn't have a horn, but I'm sure if we work together, we can find a way for her to use that magic like I can."

"So, no real lesson plans of any sort?" Discord remarked bluntly.

"Lesson plans are more Twilight's forte," said Mario, "Life has plenty of opportunities for Diamond Tiara to expand on her friendship knowledge and I'll be helping her tap into her love magic."

"Do you think she might develop powers like those jedi in those Pony Wars novels you're so obsessed over?" Discord remarked, not hiding his sarcasm.

"Why not?" said Mario, "I'd love to help her construct a lightsaber. And it be really cool to see her use jedi mind tricks on you."

"How dumb do you think I am?" Discord remarked as Mario smirked.

"I wasn't sure," Mario teased.

"Well, despite Mario's impressions on my intelligence," said Discord, "He does prove my point."

"He did?" Twilight asked.

"I did?" Mario said at the same.

"Clearly, Starlight is beyond basic friendship lessons," Discord pointed out, "She just won a medal, for Equestria's sake. I thought you were joking, Twilight. You are joking, right?"

"Of course I was," said Twilight with a nervous chuckle as sweat began appearing from her brow.

"Well, as you heard, Mario has a grand master plan of making Diamond Tiara into Equestria's very first love jedi!" Discord pointed out to Twilight.

"I never said-" Mario tried to protest but was cut off.

"Obviously, you should have a grand master plan for Starlight," Discord continued, "the same way Celestia set you and Mario on that path that eventually made the both of you a princess and prince, respectively." Twilight just nervously smiled and her brow got even more sweaty.

"Yep," Twilight squeaked as Mario just had a skeptical look on his face.

"Oh, good," said Discord, "I'm sure she can't wait to hear all about it." Mario took noticed that Discord rubbed his fingers deviously and disappeared. Mario snorted.

"Since when it is his business what are grand master plan for Starlight and Diamond Tiara are?" Mario retorted indignantly, "Just because Celestia foresaw us becoming what we are today doesn't mean that we have to do the same. Not every alicorn is given the ability to foresee the future. I can't say outright what Diamond Tiara's destiny might be, but I'm not worried. The best I can do is guide her to do what is right and her destiny will reveal itself in good time. The same can be said for Starlight. Right honey?" Twilight's only reply as she looked at him was a frazzled face and a loud whimper. Mario then grabbed her cheeks so they were making eye contact.

"Honey, look at me," Mario told her firmly, "Don't let Discord get to you. You're doing everything right."

"But Discord did have a point, Mario," said Twilight as she pulled away, "I was just thinking basic friendship lessons for her. I didn't even consider that she might ready for something greater! What kind of teacher underestimates their own students?!"

"Honey, calm down," said Mario, "It's an easy fix. Besides, we don't need to tell Starlight anything about having a grand master plan."

"What?!" Twilight exclaimed, "But...but she has a right to know!"

"Honey, I don't remember Celestia ever telling you or me about her grand master plan for us," said Mario, "She only revealed it when things happened. Like when we made our lifelong friends, defeated Sombra, earned our wings, etc. She never walked up to us and said what her plan for us was. She just let us figure it out. You can do the same for Starlight and I'm doing the same for Diamond Tiara. Then when Starlight does find her destiny, we can take all the credit for it like Mom did with our achievements."

"I heard that, Mario!" Celestia shouted from a distance. Mario just stuck his tongue out in the alicorn's direction. Twilight laughed.

"Thanks honey, I feel much better," said Twilight as she gave him a hug. Mario happily returned the gesture.

"Hey, I'm just glad you're letting me help you," said Mario, "You still tend to ignore me when you anxiety kicks in."

"I'm trying, okay!" Twilight retorted and gave him a puppy dog pout.

"I know, sweetie," said Mario, "I love you."

"I love you, too," said Twilight and they finally exchanged that kiss they were going to do before Discord showed up.

Elsewhere in the room, Starlight was speaking with Thorax.

"So how's the whole ruling-a-kingdom thing going?" Starlight asked the now taller changeling.

"It's a bit overwhelming," said Thorax honestly as they arrived at a table where two female changelings were speaking to Rarity and Applejack, "But we're adjusting."

"So, uh, you can't have friendship without makeovers?" asked one of the females.

"Eh, not-not exactly," Applejack replied as Rarity smiled and nodded in agreement. But then they just exchanged awkward looks with each other. Thorax and Starlight exchanged sheepish smiles of their own when a certain draconequus appeared.

"Oh, Starlight," said Discord, "Princess Twilight has something very important to tell us. Well, just you, really, but I'm nosy and I want to hear." Discord put on some gaucho glasses to emphasize his point, or possibly confirm he is a meddling doofus.

"Okay," said Starlight and then looked at Thorax, "Would you excuse m-?" Before Starlight could finished, Discord grabbed her and teleported them both over to Twilight and Mario.

"-Nevermind," said Starlight bluntly as Discord set her down and looked at Mario and Twilight, "What's going on?"

"Well, Discord is being a-WAH!"

CRASH!

Discord bashed Mario away with his tail before the alicorn prince could tell Starlight the truth, sending him flying away and crashing into something in the background.

"Oops, didn't see Mario there," Discord fibbed, "anyway, this conversation is between you and Twilight anyway."

"Then why are you still here?" Twilight mumbled under her breath, but was also worried if her husband was okay. Discord just slithered behind the purple pony.

"Well, Twilight was just about to reveal her grand master plan for you," Discord pointed out.

"Really?" said Starlight excitedly, "I was kind of wondering what we were gonna do next. Mario had already told me that Diamond Tiara is gonna be starting love magic lessons. What about us?"

"Yes, I'd say we were both fairly interested," Discord added with interest. Twilight just smiled nervously.

Thanks honey for telling me you already told Starlight about your plans for our daughter! Twilight thought as she tried to find her answer.

"Of course you are," said Twilight in a nervous and over the top tone, "And I do have a plan, obviously. But now is clearly not the time to do it. You should enjoy the party." Twilight then used her magic to grab a cup of punch and took a drink. To her luck, Trixie arrived.

"Starlight, come on!" Trixie said excitedly, "The Ponyville Chronicle wants to take our picture! They're already taking pictures of Apple Bloom and Di!" She then saw Discord above them and groaned, "Ugh, You, too, Discord." The group then walked off.

Thank you, Trixie! Twilight thought as she released her breath and kept sipping her punch. At least until Discord decided to appear in her punch wearing a shower cap. (What a waste of good punch.)

"Psst!" Discord whispered, "I see what you're doing."

"You do?" Twilight asked quickly.

"You already planned the perfect moment during the party to make the grand announcement to everypony about your plan," said Discord as he reappeared full size in a purple tuxedo and top hat, "Brava, Twilight! I can't wait to tell your plan to Fluttershy and the others!" Discord then poofed away.

"Discord, no!" Twilight called out, but she was too late. Twilight then began to bounce on her hooves nervously when Mario stomped over with a very angry look on his face.

"When I get my hooves on that draconequus!" Mario demanded as he looked around to find Discord missing. He then noticed his wife was looking very overwhelmed.

"Honey, please calm down," said Mario, "Discord isn't gonna get away with this!"

"It's too late!" Twilight squeaked out in a panic in a loud whisper, "He's gone to tell everypony that I'm gonna announce my grand master plan to everypony! And I've got nothing!" Twilight then ran out of the room and slammed the door. Spike, who had been eating some muffins, had heard the door slam and looked back to see Mario exit the room as well. It was then Diamond Tiara came up to the table.

"I wonder what that's all about?" Diamond Tiara asked as she gobbled up another cupcake in her fore-hoof.

"Think we should find out?" Spike asked. Diamond Tiara gave a firm nod as the two friends exited the party room and went in search for the alicorn couple. Of course, the first place they decided to check was the library room.

"Twilight," Spike said as he opened the door and he and Diamond Tiara peeked inside.

"Mom? Master?" Diamond Tiara asked, "Are you guys okay?"

"Are you reading during a party...again?" Spike asked as he and the tiara-wearing filly walked inside.

"What kind of question is that?" Diamond Tiara asked annoyingly.

"It's a bad habit your new mother has," Spike replied as a matter of fact. It was then Mario was trying and failing to calm Twilight down as she was fumbling about a large pile of unrolled scrolls.

"Honey, please calm down!" Mario told her firmly, "We can fix this! It shouldn't be hard to tell everypony that Discord was just trying to embarrass you. Then we can enjoy the party and maybe watch Fluttershy and Shenran scold him like a little toddler." Mario chuckled at that last part, but Twilight wasn't really listening.

"No, no, no!" said Twilight as she stumbled about the scrolls, "She's already good at that! She mastered this! She taught me about this one! So did my baby girl too!" Diamond Tiara blinked.

"I'm her baby girl?!" Diamond Tiara said in shock before a teary smile appeared on her face, "I'm so honored!"

"Good for you," said Spike, getting a glare from the filly, as he walked up to the alicorn couple, "Wild guess - something's wrong."

"Yeah," said Mario bitterly as Diamond Tiara approached as well, "Discord has a bad habit of giving my girl panic attacks and setting her up to look bad in front of large crowds!"

"That's not the main problem here, honey!" said Twilight as she saw both Spike and Diamond Tiara before her, "Spike! Di! I'm a terrible mentor! Why didn't I come up with a path for Starlight? Princess Celestia had it all figured out for me and Mario!"

"Honey," said Mario in a slightly annoyed tone, "Did you already forget what I told you earlier? We're not my Mom! We can't foresee the future like she could about us!"

"Point made," said Twilight, "But you know me, sweetie. I like to have a plan! And for the first time in my life! I don't! Even you have a plan for Di!"

"Okay, okay," said Mario, "I see your point."

"Is that all?" Diamond Tiara remarked, "Mom, what do you always tell me when I feel lost, worried, or confused about something?" Twilight stared and then gasped.

"That's it!" said Twilight, "Come on, everypony!" Twilight gave a cute, excited squee as she ran out of her room with a long list in her magic grip. The end of the list wrapped around Spike.

"Whoa!" Spike yelped as he was dragged along. Mario and Diamond Tiara chuckled at the little dragon's expense before they followed Twilight to the throne room.

It wasn't long before Twilight, Mario, Diamond Tiara and Spike were sitting with Celestia in the throne room. They also had the cutie map active as they were talking. Twilight was initially surprised to see Diamond Tiara was there, but didn't object to having her new daughter helping her out.

"I had years worth of friendship lessons ready to go," said Twilight, "but when we were captured by Chrysalis, Starlight, along with my new daughter, took charge and really stepped up. Even Mario would agree with this. I don't think friendship lessons are enough for Starlight anymore."

"So you have an overachieving student," said Celestia and looked at both Spike and Diamond Tiara, "Sounds familiar." Spike chuckled.

"Twilight's not the only one with an overachieving student, Mom," said Mario, "Di here has exceeded all my expectations as well."

"I've noticed and I'm very impressed with how much she's grown and matured under your teachings, my son," said Celestia as she gave the filly a smile, "She has certainly made a fine addition to our family."

"Thanks, Grandma," said Diamond Tiara. Celestia cringed and grinded her teeth together. Mario snickered at the funny faces Celestia was making. Diamond Tiara winced.

"Oh! S-s-s-sorry," said Diamond Tiara, "Since Mario is my new, or second, father now and he calls you Mom. He said I could try calling you Grandma...s-s-s-sorry." Celestia made some more strained noises through her teeth before recomposing herself.

"It's not that I don't mind being your...your..." Celestia found it very hard to say the word, make more exaggerated faces trying to say the word, "Gr...gr...graaaa...experienced parent. I just believe in being young at heart if you can understand that." Diamond Tiara just smiled.

"I get it," said Diamond Tiara, "Just cause you've been around for over a thousand years doesn't mean you like your age being emphasized. What would you prefer?" Celestia cringed again at being reminds she was over a thousand years old, but recovered.

"Just...Celestia, please," Celestia asked in a very pleading smile.

"Okay..." Diamond Tiara replied, feeling upset that she had offended the sun princess and slumped into her seat, "again...I'm sorry I hit a nerve." Celestia then saw just how upset the filly looked. She then used her magic to pull her into the throne she was sitting in and held her close to assure her everything was okay between them. Diamond Tiara smiled and felt better.

"Ahem, if we can get back in track here," said Twilight, "Celestia, that's why I had to talk to you. You, of all ponies, would know what to do. I mean, you were me and I was Starlight. But for now, I need you to pretend you're you and I'm me."

"Huh?" said Spike puzzled.

"Mom is asking Celestia to be the teacher and that she is the student again," Diamond Tiara explained to Spike.

"Heh. Go on," said Celestia and gave a fore-hoof gesture to continue and still holding Diamond Tiara with the other.

"When Mario and I were your students," Twilight continued, "and you were in this place, you-" Twilight and Mario both realized something as Celestia gave them a solemn look, "Oh, no! You sent us to Ponyville! Which means it's time for me to send Starlight Glimmer away!" Diamond Tiara gasped while Twilight was in shock. Fortunately it only took a couple of minutes before Twilight was able to recompose herself to some extent as Mario held her close.

"I can't believe it!" said Twilight, "It's really time for Starlight to go, isn't it?" Diamond Tiara them both a sad look.

"Is it true, master?" Diamond Tiara asked sadly, "Is it time for big sister to leave Ponyville?"

"I...I don't know," said Mario quietly in a worried tone, "This is all so sudden."

"Only you can make that decision, Twilight," said Celestia, "Just like Mario might one day have to do the same for Diamond Tiara."

"But that's not any time soon, right?" Diamond Tiara asked in a panic, trembling fearfully.

"No way!" said Twilight, "You just became my daughter. It's going to be a long time before we send you away, Di! After all, you've got magic lessons to do now and you're still a filly. I want my baby girl with for as long as possible! However, Starlight is different. She's a grown mare and can...take care of herself..." Diamond Tiara breathed a sigh of relief, but still felt very sad about the idea of Starlight leaving. Celestia could tell that Twilight felt rather troubled.

"It's a difficult decision to make, but your heart knows what is right, even as it hurts," said Celestia. Twilight just looked sad and said nothing as Mario held her close for support.

"Where're you gonna send her?" Spike asked eagerly. Twilight winced and Celestia and Mario glared at him.

"You really gotta start paying attention to the mood around here," Diamond Tiara remarked.

"Uh, too soon?" Spike remarked from all the glares.

"Ya think?" Diamond Tiara replied sarcastically. Celestia and Mario both rolled their eyes at his insensitivity.

"Honey, you don't need to rush it," said Mario, "I can easily step back to the party room and tell everypony Discord is just sticking his foot in his mouth...as usual."

"This isn't about what Discord is trying to do anymore," said Twilight and then took a long sigh, "This is about Starlight and it's something I have to do." Twilight then walked up to the cutie map and began looking around the area. She didn't feel any more confident as she started looking about.

"Oh boy," Twilight groaned.

"Want some help Mom?" Diamond Tiara asked as she came up the purple pony, "I could write a check list of some pros and cons of each location for you?" Twilight giggled and just hugged her daughter close. Not only was Diamond Tiara thinking like her, but that wasn't such a bad idea.

Back in the party room...

"Oh, boy!" said Fluttershy excitedly. Discord has wasted no time spread the word about "Twilight's" announcement and was now telling the rest of the mane Eight all about it. Shenran was the only pony skeptical while the others had curious looks on their faces.

"Whatever Twilight's planning for Starlight is going to be so exciting!" Discord told them.

"Hmm," said Applejack, "Wonder why she didn't tell any of us about it."

"I've been wondering the same thing, AJ," Shenran added as he gave the draconequus a suspicious look.

"Probably because you're not as close as you think you are," Discord remarked. The rest of the group shared concerned looks while Shenran gave him a glare.

"Not funny," Shenran remarked. Discord laughed.

"Relax, Shenran, I'm kidding!" Discord said once he calmed down and then leaned in towards the group, "She wanted it to be a surprise. Even told Mario to keep quiet. Just between us, she's getting ready to make a big announcement!"

"Oh really?" Shenran replied with a raised eyebrow. Pinkie squeed.

"That's so exciting!" Pinkie said excitedly, pushing her nose into Rarity's, "And surprising. Usually, you tell your party planner about all about the plans for your party."

"Another red flag if you ask me," Shenran muttered to Fluttershy with concern.

"Oh, I'm sure everything will turn out just fine, honey," said Fluttershy, "Twilight never does things without a plan."

"Hmm...good point," Shenran remarked, rubbing his chin.

"Fluttershy's right, Shenran," said Rainbow, "This is Twilight we're talking about. She definitely has one. I mean when has Twilight not had a plan?" Shenran nodded, but unlike the others, he knew Discord up to something.

Back in the throne room, Twilight was just mumbling to herself.

"Gosh, I don't know...I just don't want to send her to the wrong place," said Twilight worriedly.

"Guess my checklist idea wasn't that helpful," Diamond Tiara remarked sadly as she scanned her papers while wearing her brown glasses.

"They were, sweetheart," said Twilight, "My issue is making the right choice."

"Well, don't feel like you have to chose a place alone," said Mario as he walked up to the map.

"Yeah, Mom, let us keep helping you," said Diamond Tiara as she started to scan the map, "I'm sure there are some places in Equestria that could use Starlight's expertise and magical power more than others."

"I just, I just don't know..." Twilight replied as she kept looking on the map. She then suddenly gasped.

"I got it!" Twilight exclaimed as she ran over to Celestia, "Since defeating Chrysalis, Starlight's given the changelings an opportunity to revolutionize their society. Maybe I can send her there." Twilight then case a spell over everypony in the room. Within seconds, the four ponies and Spike were turned white and transparent as they appeared in the changeling kingdom.

"Whoa!" said Diamond Tiara as she removed her glasses and looked at her see through hooves, "This is new." Spike then watched as a changeling walked right through him and never noticed the little dragon was there.

"Cool spell," said Spike to Twilight.

"I'm rather impressed myself," Mario added.

"If Starlight goes to the changeling hive," Twilight explained, "she can help them adjust to their new way of life." Nearby, Starlight and Thorax were standing side by side before a large group of changelings.

"Okay, Friendship 101," said Starlight, "Thorax and I are going to show you how to compromise."

"I want to have a honeysuckle nectar for lunch," said Thorax in a very slow and slightly mechanical tone.

"I would like a sandwich," said Starlight in the same tone, "Oh no. What should we do?"

"Attack!" one changeling suggested, "The winner gets to choose!" The other changelings chattered in agreement. Starlight and Thorax both winced.

"Or...Thorax and I can talk about it and come up with a solution that works for everypony," Starlight suggested.

"Starlight, how do you feel about honeysuckle and peanut butter sandwiches?" Thorax proposed.

"Why, that sounds dee-licous!" Starlight replied.

"Compromise," Starlight and Thorax said together. The other changelings chattered impressively. Meanwhile, Spike and Diamond Tiara has rather puzzled looks on their faces.

"Uh, this doesn't seem like something Starlight and Thorax would do," said Spike.

"I have to agree with Spike in that," said Diamond Tiara, "The changelings are a bit naive about alot of things, but this lesson treats them like they're simple minded."

"Uh, this is Twilight's fantasy, Spike and Diamond Tiara," said Celestia, "There is no wrong way to fantasize."

"Thank you," said Twilight proudly. Mario didn't resist chuckling.

"Starlight Glimmer is a most apt and perspicacious pony!" said a changeling from the fore-ground.

"Yep. Definitely a Twilight fantasy," said Spike annoyingly as Twilight gave him a glare.

"At least Mom took my suggestion that the changelings are smart," Diamond Tiara pointed out.

"This seems like a lovely path for Starlight," said Celestia, "The changelings have so much to learn about how to enjoy love through friendships. Starlight would be busy for a very long time, but her work there would be very rewarding." Diamond Tiara looked rather sad.

"A long time huh?" the filly said quietly.

"Or dangerous," said Twilight worriedly, "It would only take one changeling to deviate from the pack." Twilight then teleported the group to another point in her fantasy of the future. Starlight used her magic to pick up some changeling eggs and then walked off. It was then an orange changeling appeared with a devious smile on their face. They quickly transformed into Starlight, laughing evilly as they approached three other changelings in the area.

"Hi, I'm Starlight Glimmer! What's your name?" the fake unicorn asked. The three changelings shared funny looks with each other.

"Uh, Cornicle?" the changeling replied. Fake Starlight laughed at them mockingly.

"What kind of name is that?" Fake Starlight asked and then used her magic to extend another changelings wings, "Ah, your wings are so, um...see-through. I'm so glad I'm a pony. Are you, like, bugs, or what?"

"The fake did not just go there?!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed in shock.

"It did..." Mario said wearily. Fake Starlight then made a giant fly swatter appear and then smacked the square end of it into two changelings and ran off. Not a second later, the real Starlight appeared. unaware of her doppelganger. Cornicle gasped.

"This she is!" Cornicle shouted angrily, "Get her!" Starlight winced and ran for her life. Twilight, Mario, and Diamond Tiara cringed before Twilight ended the fantasy.

"Uh, that probably won't happen," Spike remarked dismissively.

"Get real, Spike!" Diamond Tiara remarked, "Just because the changelings are good now doesn't mean they've lost their ability to change physical forms. Plus there are still a small number of changelings that haven't learned the benefits of sharing love. Any one of them could impersonate Starlight and tarnish her reputation if they wanted to! You've seen how easily they can fool anypony, even themselves!"

"Okay, what happened to helping Twilight not be nervous?" Spike remarked.

"I'm just saying her concern is justified!" Diamond Tiara shot back, "It's not that far-fetched!"

"I still say that won't happen!" Spike protested.

"But it could!" Twilight remarked, "I can't just send her to Celestia-knows-where without thinking it through!"

"Hmm, I was not aware that I was an expression," said Celestia, "An appropriate one, of course, for even I don't know the answer." Mario raised an eyebrow at the sun princess.

"Where have you been in recent years?" Mario asked, "Stuck in the castle all day talking to yourself?" Celestia smacked the back of his head with her wing before walking up to Twilight.

"This is a momentous decision," said Celestia to Twilight as Mario glared at the sun princess while rubbing the back of his head, "You must consider all the possibilities."

"Also keep in mind that there are risks in every journey, honey," said Mario, "and Starlight is an adult after all. She is capable of handling herself in sticky situations, especially when she gets herself into those sticky situations."

"True about that, master," Diamond Tiara pointed out.

"Rethink, rethink, rethink!" Twilight said to herself as she looked about the map once again. She then noticed a familiar volcanic area.

"What about the dragons?" Twilight suggested, "I can send Starlight to the Dragon Lands! She and Ember would totally hit it off!" Twilight then summoned her fantasy spell to teleport them to the dragon lands. Ember was just sitting by herself as dragons of all shapes and sizes hovered above the new Dragon Lord. It was then Starlight appeared via her own teleportation magic.

"Ember!" Starlight called out in a deep tone.

"Starlight!" Ember replied in the same tone. Then they did a combination of an arm/fore-leg wrestle and claw/hoof shake, which was followed by chest bumping each other and grunting.

"You ready to do some death-defying dragon stuff?" Ember asked, still using a rather macho tone.

"Ah, totally!" Starlight replied in a very poorly done surfer tone.

"Okay, that doesn't sound anything like Ember or Starlight," Spike remarked.

"Yeah, no offense Mom, but your idea of macho or surfer voices needs work," said Diamond Tiara added.

"Yeah, you gotta talk like things are totally tubular or, like, cow-a-bunga dudes!" Mario replied in a surfer tone and then switch to a more macho Germen-Austrian tone, "Or if you little chicken cutlets wish to prove that you are true beef, then stop with the yammering and face that lava head on!" Twilight just glared as Celestia, Spike, and Diamond Tiara were laughing hard.

"Master...please stop...too funny..." Diamond Tiara laughed.

"Eh-heh-heh!" Twilight laughed annoyingly, "anyway, who knows what their dynamic would be, you guys?" It was then the dragons were using their fire-breath to destroy some rock structures. Starlight then took her turn and literally wiped out the entire field with a powerful magic blast. Ember was impressed as she and Starlight shared a hoof/claw bump. Spike and Diamond Tiara then looked down and found that there was nothing for them to stand up.

"GASP!" Spike gasped as she quickly grabbed Twlight's fore-leg.

"YIKES!" Diamond Tiara squeaked as she jumped into Mario's back. Spike then tapped the air to find he could stand at that spot and not fall. Diamond Tiara jumped down and tapped the air as well to find that she could do the same.

"Whoa...cool," said Diamond Tiara impressively.

"Starlight will love it here in the Dragon Lands," said Twilight, "In her letters, Ember said the dragons do alot of fun things. The Feast of Fire, the Dragon Bowl, Claw-chella." As Twilight was speaking, a large group of dragons were flying through the skies they were "standing" on. Starlight was then seen riding the former Dragon Lord's back.

"Whoo!" Starlight cheered and laughed.

"Starlight could be there for a really long time," Twilight pointed out.

"That seems to be a common theme," Diamond Tiara said sadly.

"But then again," said Twilight, "not all dragons like ponies as much as Ember does."

"Oh, right," said Mario wearily, "Especially a particular red dragon who has proven to be a big bully and a sore loser." Twilight then teleported them to another point of her fantasy. Garble was getting ready to take off with the other dragons when Starlight approached.

"Hey, Twinkle Star!" Garble called out with a smirk that was anything but friendly.

"It's, uh, Starlight Glimmer," the unicorn corrected.

"Star-kle Light-star?" Garble repeated dumbly.

"Is he..." Diamond Tiara tried to ask.

"Yes, he's that stupid," Mario answered, "or at least acts stupid to be disrespectful." Diamond Tiara rolled her eyes.

"Starlight. Glimmer," the unicorn corrected again. This time more firmly.

"Yeah, whatever," Garble replied, "You wanna hand with us?" Before Starlight could reply, he grabbed the unicorn and jumped off a cliff.

"What are we diving into?" Starlight asked.

"Lava!" Garble answered.

"What?!" Starlight exclaimed as she saw the pool of lava below and approaching fast. Twilight and Mario both winced as the dragon and unicorn made impact.

"Twilight, this is crazy!" Spike called out as Twilight ended the fantasy, "Starlight's really good with magic. She could just stop herself from falling into a pit of lava!"

"What if she didn't realize it was happening?" Twilight protested.

"Hmm, I could definitely see Garble pulling a stunt like that on Starlight, or anypony actually," said Mario, "but even in the situation we saw, Starlight had more than enough time to teleport herself out of Garble's arms to safety. Plus, Starlight and I have been working on a spell that protects you from lava damage should you fall into it. And, for extra insurance, I taught Starlight how to make my metal cap, which make you invincible to lava and fire altogether."

"She could still drop the cap or have it stolen," said Twilight, "And that lava proof spell you two have been working on doesn't last forever! It could wear off at the worst possible time!"

"Oy ye," Mario remarked annoyingly as Twilight walked over to the map. Mario walked up so they were standing side by side.

"Sweetheart, I know you're nervous," said Mario calmly, "But don't you think you're getting a little overprotective?"

"Honey, if you had to send Diamond Tiara away, wouldn't you be nervous sending her someplace where she could get hurt or worse?" Twilight asked. Mario sighed.

"Good point," said Mario, "I just think your pressuring yourself too hard to figure this out right now. Just let me go tell everypony Discord was just sticking his foot in mouth...again and you can take your time with this."

"Still doesn't solve the fact I don't have a plan," said Twilight, "I just need to think of someplace safe to send her!" Twilight began to scan the map once again, "Someplace safe, someplace safe, someplace safe...I could send her to the Crystal Empire to continue her studies with Sunburst!" Twilight went to cast her fantasy spell.

"Wait, wait, wait, wait!" said Mario, "You gotta add this to your fantasy!" Mario then tapped his horn to Twilight as the spell took effect. Within seconds, they found themselves in the middle of what appeared to be a room in the Crystal Palace for a special occasion. More specifically, Starlight and Sunburst's wedding! They were surrounded by a small collection of Crystal ponies and, ironically, none of the Mane eight was in sight. Yet Trixie was there, wearing a bride's maid dress.

"Honey!" Twilight protested, "Starlight doesn't see Sunburst that way!"

"Um, Mom," said Diamond Tiara, "You used to say the same thing about master for years on end."

"And there is no wrong way to fantasize after all," Mario sing sang. Twilight just groaned and rolled her eyes. Spike and Celestia chuckled as they watched the wedding unfold.

"And do you Sunburst, take Starlight as your wife?" Cadance asked.

"I do," said Sunburst, making Starlight's eyes tear up.

"And do you, Starlight, take Sunburst as your husband?" Cadance asked.

"I do," Starlight replied as some tears streamed down her eyes.

"By the power invested in me, I now pronounce you mare and colt," said Cadance. Starlight and Sunburst then went in for a kiss. Twilight couldn't help but smile at the scene, but then heard the sound of a pony crying. She found out it was her husband and Diamond Tiara.

"So beautiful," Mario croaked as she wiped his eyes.

"I love moments like this," Diamond Tiara sobbed happily. Twilight rolled her eyes, but still smiled too.

"Okay, enough romance," said Twilight as she used her horn to teleport them to the Crystal Library where the two unicorns were now working on some magic together. Starlight was wearing some safety goggles as well.

"It'll be perfect!" said Twilight, "Sunburst's knowledge of magic is only matched by Starlight's abilities."

"And they make a cute couple," Diamond Tiara added. Twilight just sighed.

"Fine, they do," Twilight admitted...hastily. Down below, Sunburst was reading a book to his wife.

"I've got it, honey!" said Sunburst, "Try placing your horn directly on the potion and picture the clock you wish to make." Starlight obeyed and tapped her horn on what looked like a tree stump filled with magic potion. The object turned into a cuckoo clock, which the birdie was actually a little wooden mock up of Flurry Heart.

"They could challenge each other into becoming the most talented unicorns Equestria's ever seen!" said Twilight.

"Second only to you, right Mom?" Diamond Tiara pointed out.

"Ehh...r-r-right," Twilight replied sheepishly since everypony in the group knew Starlight outclassed her magically.

"We did it, dear!" said Starlight, "Quick, what's next?"

"Of course, the study of magic is a lifelong pursuit, and Starlight could be there for a while," Twilight pointed out as she saw Starlight and Sunburst walked off side by side in the foreground, "especially once they start attempting the really complicated stuff!"

"Uh-oh," said Diamond Tiara bluntly.

"Three, two, one..." Spike counted down, awaiting Twilight's worst case scenario.

"What if they become too ambitious?!" Twilight said worriedly.

"Oh boy, that is a good concern," said Mario, "Starlight isn't afraid to combine, merge, and modify complex spells. And, so far, her efforts have had some rather...interesting...results. She is prone to getting into trouble when it comes to magic and I doubt Sunburst will do anything to stop her."

"Seriously?" Spike remarked annoyingly.

"Spike, I can't control this alicorn over here!" said Mario, pointing a fore-hoof at Twilight, "What makes you think Sunburst could control Starlight?"

"Oh yeah, good point," Spike replied as Twilight pouted as Diamond Tiara and Celestia snickered. Twilight then moved her fantasy to Sunburst's house, or thanks to Mario's addition, Sunburst and Starlight's home. The two unicorns were now looking at another spell book.

"I never thought to combine Star Swirl's apparition spell with Spacium Flexibus, honey!" Starlight pointed, "But what would happen if we added Somnambula's Tempus Objectus?"

"If we do it just right, dear, it should allow us to materialize an object that was lost in the past," Sunburst told his wife and then used some chalk to draw a magic portal on the floor. Diamond Tiara shuddered.

"Those things always give me the creeps," said Diamond Tiara.

"Same here," said Mario, "Thanks goodness Twilight never made us try to create or activate one."

"Because I know how dangerous they are," Twilight remarked as a matter of fact but then nervously watched as Sunburst completed drawing the portal.

"No! Don't try it!" Twilight pleaded as Mario cringed.

"I can't watch!" Diamond Tiara cried out and covered her eyes, but still peeked out of one. Sunburst and Starlight then made their horns glow to activate the portal. Immediately, the portal quickly turned into a mini black hole that started sucking in anything within range. Starlight and Sunburst started to scream. To make matters worse, Starlight couldn't resist the suction and got pulled into the portal.

"Starlight, noooooo!" Sunburst and Twilight screamed. The latter was crying as she did so. Then Sunburst was pulled into the portal and all the surroundings until the rest of the transparent group was standing in a black void. Poor Twilight was in pure shock as tears poured from her eyes. And seeing Twilight in such a state was scaring Diamond Tiara.

"Mom? Mom!" Diamond Tiara cried out, shaking Twilight to get her attention, "Speak to me!"

"Honey! Honey!" Mario called out in desperation.

"Twilight, snap out of it!" Spike shouted. Twilight finally regained her senses to end her fantasy, but was still crying even after they returned back to the throne room.

"It's okay, Mom, it's okay," Diamond Tiara said in a gentle but sympathetic tone as she hugged the purple alicorn. Twilight then stood up and wiped her eyes, but still looked very frazzled. Mario pulled her close to help her calm down, stroking her mane with a fore-hoof.

"Easy, Twilight," said Spike gently, "It didn't happen."

"But it could!" Twilight interjected, "I just don't think I can send her anywhere. What am I gonna do?"

HA-HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

The entire group was then left in shock when they saw the Celestia was laughing. Mario and Diamond Tiara's jaw dropped in shock.

"Are you laughing at me?" Twilight asked in a tone that was both shocked and hurt. Celestia didn't answer. She was too busy laughing.

"I can't believe you're laughing at me," said Twilight, now feeling rather hurt.

"What's your problem?" Diamond Tiara asked, showing she wasn't afraid to speak her mind to Celestia now.

"That's not cool, Mom," Mario retorted angrily, "That's not cool!" Celestia finally calmed down.

"Oh, Twilight, Mario, Diamond Tiara, I'm not," said Celestia as she calmed down and then looked at Twilight, "I'm laughing because I had the exact same fears you're having."

"What?!" Twilight and Diamond Tiara exclaimed in surprise.

"That...actually doesn't surprise me," Mario remarked.

"Seriously?!" Twilight and Diamond Tiara said together. Celestia chuckled.

"Let me tell you all a story," said Celestia as the others took a seat before her, "Once upon a time, there was a very bright young filly and a very smart, young, but hopelessly lovesick colt." Mario blushed deep red hearing that as Diamond Tiara giggled at his expense.

Flashback

Inside a classroom, past Celestia was at a teacher's desk where young versions of Twilight, Mario, and the old Canterlot group could be seen doing their school work.

"They were truly two of my best students," Celestia narrated as young Twilight was wearing goggles and reading a book. Some sweat appeared on her brow as young Mario, also wearing goggles, used his magic to wipe it away and had several large books on his back. He then lost his footing and the books landed on top of him. Young Twilight just gave him a glare, not even asking if he was fine. Young Mario just smiled apologetically as young Twilight went back to her book. She was about to mix one potion with another when Mario stopped her, flipped the pages, and showed young Twilight another page. Young Twilight blinked at her mistake and grabbed a different potion and mixed that one instead and kept working, not bothering to tell Mario thank you. Young Mario just got to work mixing his own potion.

"Are you talking about Twilight and Mario?" Spike asked off screen, "I can't see what you're thinking about." It was then young Minuette and young Twinkleshine used their potion to make a plant grow. Young Moon Dancer young Lemon Hearts did the same. Past Celestia smiled and then she saw Mario and Twilight combine their potions to make a huge majestic plant grow from their pot. Young Twilight and young Mario smiled excitedly.

"Yes, Spike," said Celestia, "I was constantly surprised and impressed with both of their combined and individual discoveries." Past Celestia watched as Mario went to raise a fore-hoof for a high-five, but Twilight just shoved another book into his fore-legs and went back to reading another. Mario just hugged the book to his chest and gazed at Twilight as pink hearts floated above his head. Past Celestia rolled her eyes but smirked at the sight, but then her facial expression became more serious.

"But I noticed that Twilight's pursuit of academia was preventing her from reaching her full potential," Celestia narrated.

"You mean it was keeping her isolated and alone?" said Spike, "and she took Mario for granted?"

"Uh, yes, Spike," said Celestia as she watched young Moon Dancer ask Mario for some help. Young Mario was hesitant to leave young Twilight's side, but Moon Dancer pulled him away. Soon the other fillies were talking with him, "As for Mario, he tended to be very shy at first, but once he was able to open up, he had no problem making friends." It was then the flashback advanced forward several years as past Celestia saw Mario sitting alone in the wheelchair looking very miserable.

"After his downfall from racing and his injury, Mario started to close off," Celestia continued, "Spitfire was only help to help Mario so much before she joined the Wonderbolt Academy and they started seeing less of one another. With both Mario and Twilight spending hardly any time making friendships, I knew I had a decision to make. Oh, but it wasn't easy." Past Celestia could be seen standing at the horizon as the sun began to set as she began talking to herself.

"Maybe I could close the library," Past Celestia said aloud, "or throw a party in the castle. Oh, they'd have to talk to the other fillies and colts then! Then again, the last time I tried throwing a party for Mario. The other ponies only sought to get in good graces with me or Cadance. They didn't even want to try to get to know my son...and after Mario's moment of fame...most of the elite has wasted no time making him feel unwelcome here..." Past Celestia then looked at the moon, which still had Nightmare Moon's face on it.

"I must send them away," said Past Celestia sadly as tears appeared in her eyes.

Sometime later, past Celestia was in Ponyville speaking with Mayor Mare when she saw five very familiar fillies speaking and chatting with each other.

"I knew there was a special group of fillies in Ponyville," Celestia continued to narrate, "Fillies that I knew would not only help Twilight. They would accept Mario for who he was and help him come out of his shell, so to speak. But I kept inventing all kinds of reasons why I shouldn't send them away." Back at the castle, Past Celestia was pacing about in the foreground of the throne room.

"What if they run into a manticore?" Past Celestia asked herself, "Or what if they get pulled into Tartarus? Or worst of all, what if they don't get along with anypony?" Past Celestia was beginning to panic, which made the two guards standing in the background feel rather awkward.

"Are we supposed to do something?" the right guard asked.

"I don't think so," the left guard replied nervously. Later that night, Past Celestia was sitting on her bed, trembling from a panic attack since the anxiety was getting the best of her.

"When it seemed like I would never find the confidence to go through with my idea," said Celestia, "I was reminded that a certain colt was not only perceptive, but also very aware of my...stress." It was then teenage Mario entered the room with glass of water.

"Drink, Mom," said teenage Mario firmly. Past Celestia did and then a long deep breath. Mario then hopped into the bed and snuggled into her side.

"You look like you could use a little love," said teenage Mario gently, "wanna tell me what's got you in a panic attack right now?" Past Celestia spluttered.

"Oh, nothing! Nothing at all! I'm just a little stressed from the day. It's been a long...uhh...day...after all, heh," Past Celestia spluttered but teenage Mario wasn't amused.

"If you're gonna lie to me, Mom, put some real effort into it," teenage Mario remarked, "Now what's going on here?" Past Celestia snorted and then sighed.

"Mario, my son," said Past Celestia, "I've been taking into consideration what you've told me about how you feel shut down and helpless trying to find friends here in Canterlot. And you're not the only pony who feels like Twilight spends too much time studying and not making the effort to appreciate her friends, including you."

"Don't remind me..." teenage Mario said sadly, "And for finding my own friends, I feel like I'm always going to be an outsider looking in, especially after I made a fool of myself..." Past Celestia hummed.

"I've been wondering if you two would like to move to Ponyville," said Past Celestia, "Maybe you both might find it easier making friends in a smaller community. What do you think?" Teenage Mario pondered.

"I guess if Twilight..." teenage Mario began to say.

"No, my son," said Past Celestia firmly, "I asked what you thought about the idea."

"Well, I guess it wouldn't be much different since I hardly get to spend time with you like we are now," teenage Mario replied honestly, "and having a chance to make friends without feeling like I'm under a cloud would be a nice change. If you think they would give me a chance..." Past Celestia smiled.

"Thank you, Mario," said Past Celestia as she nuzzled his head with her nose, "That is all I needed to know. And let's just keep this conversation between us." Teenage Mario just smiled.

"I didn't know you gave Celestia input about sending us away," Twilight exclaimed off screen to her husband as Past Celestia gazed at the stars, "I can't believe you never told me!"

"Mom said to keep it a secret," said Mario, "Plus she took so long to finally send us to Ponyville that I completely forget about the conversation."

"Mario is right about that, Twilight," said Celestia as her past self watched past Mario, past Twilight, and past Spike fly off to Ponyville, "I kept you both in Canterlot longer than I should have." Past Celestia cried as she watched the two ponies and little dragon disappear into the distance.

End Flashback

"Eventually, I realized all the anxiety I felt was because I didn't want either of you to go."

"Really?" said Twilight as her eyes shined.

"And because I forgot about that conversation," said Mario, "I was fully convinced you couldn't wait to get rid of me, especially since I still felt like I let you down."

"Not at all, my son," Celestia replied, "I love having you as my son. And I loved having you and Twilight as students. You both challenged me and taught me just as much as I taught you. I am embarassed to admit it, but I was afraid if you both made friends, you wouldn't need me anymore."

"Aww..." Diamond Tiara cooed cutely. Twilight and Mario were so touched that they began to cry.

"Princess Celestia, that is so not true," said Twilight, "I will always need you."

"Especially me," said Mario, "Just because I was able to find friends and open up didn't exactly solve all my issues after all. I still need you more than ever, especially if I'm ever going to fully overcome this gloominess. That changeling invasion made me take a bit of a step backwards."

"I wouldn't say that big," said Celestia, "You used to push ponies away when you got really glum, but now you've learned to seek me, your wife, and your friends for help. And for the record, you could never let me down. You are my son and I will always love you." Mario chocked a sob.

"I'll always love you too, Momma," Mario croaked as he gave the sun princess a loving hug.

"In regards to feeling needed, I think Starlight Glimmer might feel the same way about you," said Celestia to Twilight while holding Mario with a fore-leg, "if that is what you're afraid of."

"Maybe it is," said Twilight timidly, "Just a little."

"Oh it definitely it," said Spike, "Like, a lot." Spike chuckled as Twilight shot him a glare.

"Yeah, well," Twilight snorted before calming down, "If I'm being honest, I'm more afraid of that happening between me and Di. She's not exactly a little filly and she's grown and matured in such a short time before Mario and I ever adopt her."

"That doesn't mean I'll stop needing you as I get older, Mom," said Diamond Tiara, "Trust me, I'm not exactly in a hurry to grow up. It will be a long time before I'm ready to leave. I promise that we are going to have lots of time to get closer to each other as mom and daughter. I love you." Twilight was touched and pulled the filly in for a loving hug, kissing her fore-head.

"Here we are after all these years," said Celestia as she pulled Twilight, Spike, and Diamond Tiara closer since Mario was already holding her, "You, me, and Mario are living proof that letting someone spread their wings doesn't mean you no longer have a place in their lives."

"Thank you," said Twilight with a smile as she continued to hold her daughter close, "and now I get to experience the joys of motherhood. Just like you." Celestia chuckled.

"It is a very rewarding and wonderful experience," said Celestia, "and if you ever need any advice, feel free to write to me. In fact, if your still worried about Starlight, you can always make her write you letters."

"At least until it gets old," Mario added with a smirk. Celestia gave him a raspberry as Spike and Diamond Tiara giggled. Twilight just smiled.

"Feeling better sweetie?" Mario asked as he walked up to his wife.

"Yeah," said Twilight, "and now I think I know what my plan for Starlight is."

"Oh, so I don't have to call out that Discord's foot is in his mouth?" Mario asked.

"Nope," said Twilight, "Listen..." Twilight then whispered his plan to Mario, who just smiled and nodded in approval to her idea.

A few minutes later, Celestia, Diamond Tiara, and Spike had already returned to the party. Mario and Twilight then entered a few minutes afterward each of them carrying a present in their magic grip. The crowds fell silent as they watched the alicorn couple head to the back of the room and put their presents down. It was then a spotlight shined on them, nearly blinding the two alicorns, and then...

"D'oh!" Mario yelped as he and Twilight were bopped on the head with a boom mic that was being held by Discord wearing a camera-pony's outfit.

"I may have let it slip that you'd be unveiling your big plan for Starlight tonight," Discord remarked, "Silly me. But we're all very excited to hear what you've cooked up." There was a long silence as Twilight and Mario noticed that the entire crowd was staring at them.

"Oh boy..." Mario remarked as Twilight looked away and winced.

"You weren't coming up with a plan just now, were you?" Discord asked in disbelief, "Oh, dear. This could be pretty embarassing for you." Discord smirked.

"Gee, thanks, Discord," said Twilight sarcastically.

"Like you would ever set up my wife to be humiliated in front of all our friends," Mario remarked in the same tone.

"Told ya," Shenran whispered to Fluttershy, who just inwardly groaned, rolled her eyes, and said nothing.

"Anytime," Discord replied, disregarding the sarcasm, as he patted Twilight's fore-hoof, "I really love being helpful."

"Riiiight, helpful," Mario remarked with a heavy eye roll as Discord teleported into the crowd. Twilight then grabbed a spoon and empty drinking glass from the table Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Shenran were sitting. She then used her magic to clink the spoon against it.

"If we could have everypony's attention!" said Twilight as the ponies focused on her.

"The floor is yours my love," said Mario as he pecked her cheek. Twilight giggled as she cleared her throat.

"As you all know," Twilight told to the crowd, "Starlight Glimmer's been my pupil for a while now, and I'd hope she'd be my pupil for a long time to come. But it turns out that's just not meant to be." The crowd gasped. Starlight, Trixie, and Sunburst were complete shock.

"Starlight," Twilight said to the still stunned lilac unicorn, "you have proved yourself to be a kind, loyal, strong, and truly magical friend. Just looking around this room at all the new friendships you've made, I know there's nothing more I need to teach you. So we have a second reason to celebrate today. Three cheers for Starlight Glimmer on her graduation day!"

"Congratulations!" Mario cheered as he tossed some confetti into the air. The other ponies smiled as Twilight spoke, but poor Starlight was overwhelmed. her flustered feelings grew when Twilight announced her graduation and everypony cheered. Pinkie squeed.

"What a great surprise!" Pinkie Pie giggled with a big smile and watery eyes.

"The future's in your own hooves now," Twilight told Starlight.

"Wow," said Starlight, still recovering from the shock, "I was not expecting this!"

"Mmm..." Trixie and Thorax hummed and giggled as they gave Starlight some hugs. Twilight and Mario shared smiles with each other as they watched the three friends embrace each other.

"Darn it," Discord remarked as he reappeared beside the two alicorns, "I was hoping you would send her to my realm. We could've been roomies. Way to not pick up what I was putting down,"

"Oh, give me a break," Mario remarked as he and Twilight rolled their eyes and walked away. It was a second later that, Thorax, Trixie, and Starlight pulled away from their hug.

"How do you want to celebrate?" Trixie asked eagerly, "Girls' trip to Las Pegasus?"

"We could throw you a changeling Gorbfest!" Thorax suggested as Starlight and Trixie cringed.

"Uh, it's more fun than it sounds," Thorax said with a sheepish smile. Starlight just smiled until Discord tapped her shoulder.

"Or we could go cause a little mischief," said Discord, "I know a trick that'll turn Celestia's castle into cheese. Do you think it's a "gouda" idea?" Discord gave a chuckle, "That's just the first of many cheese jokes if we go down this path." Starlight just looked at her friends, unsure of what to say or do.

"Well, that all sounds wonderful," said Starlight slowly, "But, um, give me a minute, would ya?" Starlight then headed over to Twilight, Mario, Spike, and Diamond Tiara who were giggling as Diamond Tiara was about to open her present from both Mario and Twilight as Celestia and Luna watched quietly.

"Mom, Master!" Diamond Tiara exclaimed as she opened a box to find a gold necklace with a star pendant that had a heart shaped pink gem on the center of it, "This is really for me?"

"Yes it is, Di," said Mario, "The pendant has some of my magic in it."

"Really?" said Diamond Tiara as she put the necklace on.

"Indeed, sweetheart," Twilight replied, "It's not alot of magic, but now you can run fast and jump high like Mario can!"

"And once you learn to quiet your mind," Mario added, "We can find ways to combine that magic with your love magic. Then you'll have more special abilities you can do."

"Cool, I'll never take it off," said Diamond Tiara and then went for a high jump. She surprised herself when she jumped nearly four yards high.

"Wow...that...was...wow," said Diamond Tiara as she wobbled a bit from the landing.

"Take it easy, sweetie," said Twilight, "No need to get overexcited."

"Sorry, Mom," said Diamond Tiara sheepishly as she recovered.

"Yeah, no need to rush getting yourself stuck on the ceiling," Spike remarked. Diamond Tiara blew him a raspberry. Mario and Twilight laughed. Starlight giggled a little before getting the alicorn's couple's attention.

"Congratulations," said Twilight and Mario together.

"Thanks," Starlight replied.

"So how do you feel?" said Twilight asked.

"Happy, surprised, overwhelmed," Starlight replied honestly, "I mean, not that I'm not grateful, but are you sure?" Twilight looked back toward Celestia, who gave her a smile. Mario reached out and held one of Twilight's fore-hooves.

"Believe me, I've thought long and hard about this," said Twilight.

"Of course you did," said Starlight as a matter of fact.

"Well, it wasn't easy with Discord nagging us to tell you about our plans for you," Mario remarked as Twilight nudged his side.

"Let it go, honey," said Twilight, "We outsmarted him in the end and we found Starlight's path. That's all that matters." Mario smiled and nodded in agreement. But they noticed that Starlight still looked uncertain. Twilight lifted Starlight's chin so they were making eye-contact.

"Starlight, trust me," said Twilight, "You're ready."

"Yeah!" said Starlight as she walked away, but only took a few steps before turning around and stopping, "No, I'm not!"

"What are you talking about?" Twilight asked.

"What's wrong?" Mario asked as well.

"I'm not ready to leave!" Starlight cried out, getting the attention of some ponies in the foreground. To her, surprise Twilight and Mario were smiling.

"Oh, good!" said Twilight quickly with relief as she hugged the lilac unicorn, "'Cause I'm not ready for that either! Here!" Twilight then used her magic to bring over her present.

"I got you this present," said Twilight as Starlight used her magic to unwrapped it and looked at a mirror that had pictures all around the frame, "It was going to be a "congrats on getting a medal of honor" present, but then I was afraid it would have to be a going-away present, but now it's an "I couldn't be happier you're staying" present! It fits perfectly over your dresser! I know. I measured." Starlight was just crying as a large smile appeared over her face.

"Thank you," said Starlight as her tears continued to flow.

"I may not know what comes next for you, but whatever it is, I promise I'll always be there for you," Twilight said sympathetically.

"And most importantly," Mario added as he put a fore-hoof on the unicorn's shoulder, "we love you Starlight."

"Yes we do!" said Diamond Tiara as she appeared between the unicorn and alicorn couple, "I mean..." Now Diamond Tiara was crying, "I didn't want to be selfish...because I know Mom is only thinking what it best for you, but...I was gonna miss not having you around. I call you my big sister after all..." Starlight was touched by the filly's honestly and pulled her in for a hug.

"I love you, Big Sister," Diamond Tiara sobbed.

"I love you too," said Starlight, "There was no way I could say goodbye to my little sister."

"Group hug everypony!" Mario called out. He pulled them as well as Diamond Tiara in for a group hug.

"Oh," Starlight cooed.

"Oh," Twilight cooed as well. The ponies stayed in their group hug as Celestia and Luna smiled at each other. The former gave an approving nod over what had happened.

"Think Twilight can handle it?" Luna asked.

"Letting Starlight go?" Celestia asked, "I'm sure she will when Starlight is truly ready."

"I was referring to being a mother," said Luna, "I might not have been around to see you raise Mario, but I've heard stories..." Celestia snorted.

"Being a mother is never an easy task," said Celestia but then a soft smile appeared on her face, "But it is a very rewarding experience to watch a foal you raised grow up to be so successful and happy." Luna just smiled in agreement as the rest of the part continued to chatter about in the fore-ground.

Once the party was over, the area was a mess. Pinkie just looked around, smiled, and quickly zipped away. She then placed her own patented vacuum cleaner in the center of the room and pushed a button.

VROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM! SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS-POP!

Within seconds, the vacuum sucked up everything inside the room.

"Phee-yew!" said Pinkie as she wiped her brow.

"Pinkie, let me out of here!" Mario cried out in a muffled tone. Somehow, despite not being on screen, the vacuum had sucked him up as well!

"Did I hear somepony?" said Pinkie, then paused, "Nah!" Pinkie then bounced away and closed the door to the room.

"Pinkiiiiiiiiiiiiiiie!" Mario yelled in a muffled tone, making the vacuum teeter about, and then fell over into its side. To make matters worse, the lights in the room were turned off. So now he was alone in the dark.

"Aw cupcakes!" Mario bellowed in defeat.

Don't worry pony fans. They'll get him out by the next episode.

Hope you enjoyed Diamond Tiara singing a pony version of the season 1 Pokémon anime song. And the fact she now has the right to be called by the Cutie Map just emphasizes that she'll have a larger role this season. I will drop a hint: One of her Cutie Map missions will be a situation that originally wasn't a friendship mission.

You gotta admit. While Celestia has been shown to be quite young at heart, I can see her having issues being emphasized as being old or elderly. I'm sure you could imagined the strained faces she was making when Diamond Tiara called her grandma, which is technically accurate since Mario called Celestia Mom. In the end, we decided to let Celestia have her pride and just be called informally by the filly.

The alternate ending was a joke I had planned ever since I started writing. Alot of pony fans wonder why I make Mario the receiving end of so many slapstick jokes. It's just my way of showing that, despite my issues and insecurities, that I can laugh at myself from time to time. The show is famous for its comedy as well as its drama after all.

Next time: Starlight learns the hard way how dangerous it is to store up your emotions. Meanwhile, Diamond Tiara joins the mane Eight for Twilight's friendship retreat. She is family now.

Peace Pony Fans!