The enchanting princess of friend, the purple alicorn, Twilight Sparkle strolled through the empty streets of Ponyville, her face filled with curiosity. Using her vibrant purple magic, she effortlessly lifted a scroll into the air, accompanied by an abundance of quills. Completely absorbed in unraveling the secrets within the colossal scroll, she accidentally bumped into an unyielding object. Ignoring the collision, a mischievous glimmer sparkled in her eyes as she continued her journey, her thoughts consumed by the mysterious message on the scroll. The townspeople watched in awe and trepidation as she passed by, her mere presence sending delightful shivers down their spines. No one dared to approach her, fully aware that the alicorn was on a determined mission, and nothing could hinder her progress. As Twilight embarked on her mission, her unwavering determination ensured that no obstacle could divert her path. She pressed forward, occasionally glancing up from her scroll, but only to swiftly jot down additional notes. The scroll itself was of considerable size, much like the rest of her scrolls. Its sheer magnitude left ponies bewildered, pondering how she managed to navigate from her castle to Ponyville without encountering further calamities. Twilight Sparkle, even prior to her ascension as the princess of friendship, exuded an enigmatic aura that intrigued all who crossed her path. In the realm of Twilight Sparkle's mission, her resolute commitment rendered her impervious to any form of distraction. She persisted in her journey, occasionally lifting her gaze from the scroll, solely to transcribe further observations. The scroll, a colossal entity akin to her other voluminous manuscripts, perplexed all who beheld it. How she traversed the treacherous path from her castle to Ponyville without succumbing to additional misfortunes remained an enigma. Twilight Sparkle, shrouded in an air of mystique long before her coronation as the princess of friendship, captivated the minds of those who dared to delve into her enigmatic persona.
''Twilight! Hey, Twilight!'' Echoed a haunting voice, piercing through the air. If she wasn't burdened by the facade of being the princess of friendship, she would have dismissed it without a second thought. The voice belonged to her so-called "bestest" friend, Pinkie Pie. Against her will, she found herself standing before the ominous SugarCube Corner, unsure if she had intended to be there. Had she taken a wrong turn? Lost in her own thoughts, she had nearly forgotten her intended destination. ''Oh, Pinkie,'' she murmured, her eyes, a chilling shade of purple, flickering between her surroundings and the cryptic notes before her, etched in sinister black ink.''Hey there! What are you up to? Need any assistance? Oh, what's that you're working on? Is it some kind of science project? It looks really fun!'' The bright pink pony was bouncing now, though Twilight had barely lifted her gaze from the scroll to notice the excitement presented on her bright friend's face.
''I'm going to explore the EverFree Forest today.'' Twilight smiled. All it took was a single second as Pinkie Pie's brain picked up on what Twilight had just said to her, for her to look taken aback. ''Why? Why-why would you want to go and explore a place like that?'' she asked, a shakiness etched behind her voice. Twilight paused, her gaze fixed on Pinkie Pie, her friend's unease evident. ''I've been given an assignment by Princess Luna and Celestia. I guess there have been unusual magical occurrences in the forest, and we all agree it should be checked up on. ''But Twilight, the EverFree Forest is dangerous! It's filled with unpredictable magic and wild creatures. You could get hurt!'' she pleaded, her voice tinged with genuine concern. ''We;ve all seen first hand what that forest holds inside. Why would you willingly go inside?'' Twilight's determination hardened as she reassured her friend.
''I know it's risky, Pinkie, but I'm prepared. I've studied the ancient texts and consulted with Princess Celestia. I have a plan, and I won't go in alone. Spike and Fluttershy will be with me.'' Pinkie Pie's worry didn't dissipate. ''But what if something goes wrong? What if you can't handle it?'' she pressed, her voice trembling slightly. ''Twilight, you're my best friend. I can't bear the thought of losing you.'' Twilight's eyes softened, her own concern mirrored in her gaze. ''Pinkie, I appreciate your concern, but I need to do this. It's my duty as a princess and as a friend. I promise, I'll take every precaution and return safely. Trust me, ''and don't worry, I won't be completely alone. I'll take the necessary precautions and bring Spike along for assistance." Pinkie's eyes widened with relief. "Oh, that's much better! Spike will make sure you stay safe and he's great at handling unexpected situations. Just promise me that you'll be careful, okay?"
As they delved further into their discussion, Twilight couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and determination, grateful for her friends' concern and support as she embarked on this mysterious adventure. Alas, Pinkie also knew Twilight wouldn't include her friends without the princesses saying so. It was a blast from the past, exactly how Twilight had behaved when she was tasked with locating and retrieving the crystal heart. ''Alright Pinkie, well as much as I'd like to keep chatting with you, I shouldn't waste anymore daylight.'' Pinkie Pie nodded, a small smile forming on her face. "Of course, Twilight. Just remember to stay safe and come back to us, okay? We'll be here waiting for you." "I will," Twilight promised, her determination back in her voice. She gave Pinkie a reassuring hug before heading out of Sugarcube Corner, ready to face the challenges that lay ahead.
(Later)
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Twilight reached the end of the scroll. Her heart pounded in her chest as she read the final words, her excitement tinged with a sense of dread. She uncovered the ancient secret, but now it was up to her to decide how she would use what she'd just learned. As the enchanting purple alicorn stood in front of the entrance to the EverFree Forest, her face etched with a mixture of determination and uncertainty. She recalled how the townsponies had looked at her, both fearful and hopeful, she'd expected as much, but she had no choice. She had to do this. She had to do this, even if she did tell Pinkie Spike would be attending with her. However that wasn't happening anymore. Once she realized what she might face in there, she couldn't possibly allow a baby dragon such as Spike to enter. No, she had to do this by herself. Inside she knew what she was doing was right. It was for Princess Luna and Celestia afterall, she'd been asked to investigate to bring better safety to the ponies in Ponyville, what better way to protect them if they knew what they were dealing with inside? Twilight took a deep breath, her regal winds unfurling with a sense of purpose. WIth one final glance at the town, she made her decision. With a surge of magic, the scroll she'd been reading suddenly burst into flames, its ancient secrets reduced to nothing but ash now. Twilight's violet eyes filled with life, as she knew in that moment she was doing her best as a princess should. And so it wasn't long until she was heading straight into the forest, the entrance becoming further and further away. How the streets of Ponyville had once echoed with the sound of her hooves, as her determination was unwavering. What would come next was something she'd never have prepared for.
As Twilight ventured deeper into the Everfree Forest, she could feel a mix of excitement and trepidation bubbling within her. The familiar sounds of the forest surrounded her, the rustling leaves, the distant hoots of owls, and the occasional howl in the distance. It was a reminder of the wild and unpredictable nature that awaited her. With each step, Twilight couldn't help but let her mind wander to the mysteries that lay ahead. What secrets would she uncover? What forgotten artifacts or ancient ruins would she stumble upon? The possibilities were endless, and the mere thought of it filled her with a sense of purpose. The forest, although untamed and unpredictable, had always intrigued Twilight. She saw it as a place of endless discovery, a canvas on which she could paint her knowledge and unravel the stories that had been long forgotten. It was the perfect playground for her inquisitive mind, a chance to expand her understanding of Equestria's history and magic.
But as Pinkie's words lingered in her thoughts, Twilight couldn't help but acknowledge the dangers that lay within the forest. The Everfree had a reputation for unpredictable magic, mythical creatures, and hidden traps. It was a place where one wrong step could lead to disaster. However, Twilight was determined to approach the task with caution and professionalism. She had prepared extensively for this research assignment, packing her saddlebags with essential supplies, protective gear, and communication devices in case of emergencies. She had meticulously mapped out her route and familiarized herself with the most challenging areas of the forest. Twilight was confident in her abilities and knowledge, and she knew that staying focused and observant would be crucial. As Twilight trotted deeper into the depths of the forest, the sunlight struggled to penetrate the dense canopy above. Shadows danced around her, and the air felt thick with mystery. The forest seemed to hold its breath, as if aware of her presence. With every passing moment, Twilight's excitement grew, pushing aside any lingering doubts or worries. She knew that she was doing something that truly ignited her passion, something that would contribute to her understanding of Ponyville's history. And with that determination, Twilight pressed on, ready to unveil the hidden secrets that awaited her in the heart of the Everfree Forest. The overgrowing silence was unsettling, amplifying the already creepy atmosphere of the forest. It seemed as though time had come to a standstill, leaving only the darkness and the unknown lurking in the shadows. The absence of any sound was deafening, making it difficult to shake off the feeling of unease that settled in the pit of one's stomach.
Twilight's once warm, kind, eyes now held a hollow emptiness that once stared into, was capable of chilling ones very soul. The sparkle that had used to dance behind her violet eyes was now extinguished, leaving behind only a dull glimmer of despair. Her mane, once vibrant and beautiful, now hung limpy around her face like dark tendrils. The once lush and colorful stands now bore the weight of her pain, dragging her into a sea of darkness. They twisted and snaked around her, mirroring the twisted thoughts inside her, from the horrific images she'd been forced to witness. ''Somepony, anypony! Please help me!'' she shouted. There was blood all over her body, she was head to hoof in the stuff. Although as she forced her body to run, she wasn't sure at first if the blood was her own, or something else. ''Hello!'' she shouted again, her voice left echoing through the dark forest, desperate for something to come to her aid. Her heart was pounding in her chest, her breaths coming out ragged as her hooves burned from the horrible pain from the cuts along her skin. ''Twily? Where'd you go? Don't you want to play anymore?'' Twilight's ears instantly rose as her purple eyes widened. Though the voice was held with strong love, it was replaced by horror and fear now. ''Shining Armor...'' The words hit her like a ton of bricks, causing her to freeze in place for a moment. The wind seemed to carry the voice closer to her, making it nearly impossible for her to ignore it. She felt trapped, like a bird in a cage. The fear inside her grew stronger, just as another voice entered her ears. ''Twilight, come to me. I want you to try these new cupcakes I made. I tried a new recipe. I want you to be the first to try them.'' Pinkie Pie. Twilight lifted her head, just a little, eyes now used to the darkness from staying in it so long. A sense of curiosity and false safety as she focused on her best friend's voice. ''Pinkie Pie? Is that you? I-you were right. I shouldn't have come here by myself. I-I'm so scared. My wings are gone, Pinkie.'' ''Oh Twilight. Come here.'' she beckoned. ''I have some special for you. I just know you'll adore these cupcakes.'' Right in front of her, just inches away, stood Pinkie. Twilight immediately identified her friend by her distinctive pink fluffy mane and tail. And to Twilight's delight, Pinkie held a tray of delicious cupcakes in her hooves, each one adorned with a vibrant purple icing. ''Pinkie, where did you come in from? I've been trying to find the entrance but it's like it just vanished into thin air! We can't be here, both of us need to leave, right now!''
''Why don't you try one of my cupcakes before we go? I know you'll just love them.'' Pinkie said again, there was the sinister darkness behind each syllable. ''Pinkie! For pony sake, I don't want a cupcake! We need to get out of here!'' Twilight screamed at her pink friend. Though Pinkie Pie didn't seem at all impacted, for she just stared at Twilight, with a smile that wasn't her own. Suddenly, forcing her heart to work double time in her chest, Twilight focused on a new sound that threatened to gripple her. A sound that made her blood run cold. A deep, guttural growl that seemed to come from all around her. As she looked around, she caught a glimpse of something moving in the shadows just behind Pinkie Pie.
''Oh sweet Celestia..'' Her body trembled uncontrollably as she gasped for air. The sight before her was indescribable, leaving her speechless. She desperately tried to focus on her magic, attempting to ignite her horn and buy herself some time. But the darkness that enveloped her made it difficult to concentrate. Suddenly, a surge of excruciating pain coursed through her body, causing her to scream in agony. The sound that escaped her lips was so terrible that it felt like it could rip her throat apart. In a swift and menacing motion, a sinister black tentacle lunged towards her, coiling tightly around her delicate horn. With an unyielding force, it yanked with such ferocity that Twilight's horn shattered, severing its connection from her head in a mere blink of an eye. The excruciating pain surged through her body, leaving her stunned and vulnerable, as the once prominent symbol of her magical prowess lay shattered on the ground, a cruel reminder of the power that had been mercilessly stripped away. ''Please any pony! Please, help me!'' Then more pain slammed into her like a wrecking ball, as further black tentacles began working away at her majestic wings. The tentacles wrapped so tightly around her wings, squeezing so tightly for a moment, Twilight thought they'd explode right from her body, however that's not what happened. What happened was worse.
The tentacles began to pull, tearing at the very fabric of Twilight's wings. Feathers flew in all directions as the once magnificent wings were reduced to a mangled mess. The pain was unbearable, and Twilight let out a deafening scream as she felt her wings being ripped apart piece by piece. As the last of her feathers fell to the ground, Twilight collapsed onto the floor, writhing in agony. She had never felt so helpless and vulnerable before. Her magical abilities, her identity as an alicorn had been stripped away in a matter of moments.
''Please!'' she tried again, only for her own voice to come back at her, louder. Then the wind seemed to stop as tightness grew around her hooves. And in that moment, Twilight's heart shattered as did her thoughts as she was dragged into the shadow of darkness.
"You're mine now"