My Little Pony © Bonnie Zacherle/Lauren Faust/Hasbro

Death & Rebirth: Part VII

Twilight grumbled to herself as she continued with her organizing of the Winter Wrap-Up. despite her "concentration" on her job, she couldn't help but think of today's 'incident'

how when she left her only son in the care of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, their classmate, Diamond Tiara started bulling them..and, then HIT her son!

the young alicorn had a hard time NOT feeling angry about it.

I mean, Alex Jr. was her only child, a BABY! and, he was all that remained of his father, whom Twilight loved and mourned with ALL her heart.

though, mostly..Twilight was infuriated with bullying in general.

she remembered her own foalhood, how she too was mocked and ridiculed as a young filly. how in those days, her only solace was her big brother, and her doll "smarty pants"

the fact that her own son was being bullied..was unacceptable to her.

no..she promised Alex on his deathbed that their son would NEVER suffer as he did. and, Twilight knew for a fact that Alex's suffering at his abusive father's hooves was far worse than any of the hardships that SHE had to endure.

and, Twilight Sparkle wasn't about to break her promise.

Twilight took a moment to glance over at her son.

the lime green foal was asleep, curled up close to Derpy, who had volunteered to depart from her job with the other Pegasi to look after Alex Jr.

Twilight took a break from her organizing, and, walked over to where Derpy lay. "derpy-" "SHHH!" shushed Derpy "he's asleep."

Twilight smiled. "yes..i can see that."

Alex Jr. (still asleep) began to turn over on his back. Twilight smiled warmly, then looked over at the blonde pegasi. "thank you, Derpy..for telling me of Alex when you did." Derpy smiled. "i..may not be as good a flyer as Rainbow Dash. b-but, I do try to help the best I can."

Twilight nodded. "well..Thank You. and, Thanks for watching him while I work." Derpy smiled her usual smiles. "I'm just happy to help, Twilight. I'm just glad the other Pegasi were all fine with me leaving. I was worried they would be upset at first. but, they all seem happy when I left to look after Alex Jr."

Twilight grimaced, having a pretty good idea WHY the others were so happy. but, dared not tell Derpy the "truth" "Well..I appreciate your help, Derpy. with my other friend so busy, I really-"

"I know..I'm just happy to help!" said Derpy, her expression bright

"MAMA!, MAMAAA!"

Twilight looked, and saw a bluish-grey unicorn run up. she recognized her as Dinky, Derpy's daughter and, with her was Sparkler, her foalsitter and one of Derpy's close friends.

Derpy smiled as Dinky ran up. "Are you alright, Mama!?" exclaimed Dinky, concerned "Yes, Dinky: I'm fine. I just had to do a favor for Twilight Sparkle, that's all."

the filly looked at the sleeping Alex Jr..with eyes full of wonder. "Ooooh.." Dinky bent down, inspecting the green foal. "it's a..BABY!"

Sparkler smiled as she approached. "Yep, Just like YOU were not-so-long-ago, Dinky."

as Dinky marveled at the baby, Sparkler stood near Twilight..a solem look on her face. "rainbow told me what happened..i'm sorry, twilight."

Twilight grumbled to herself. "i just don't understand how ANYpony could hurt an innocent baby." said Twilight, at last "if she wasn't a child herself..i'd thrash this Diamond Tiara for what she did."

the unicorn eyed Twilight. "well..what ARE you going to do, then?"

"the only civil thing: I am going to talk with her parents." replied Twilight

"her FATHER, you mean: Diamond Tiara doesn't have a mother. So, you will have to speak with her father: Filthy Rich, one of the most wealthiest ponies in Equestria."

"FINE..I'll speak with him." said Twilight, sternly "AFTER the Winter Wrap-Up is over."

the two mares watched as Alex Jr. began to awake. Dinky bent down to inspect him, sniffing him a bit. the ginger maned foal then made a tiny sneeze. Derpy leaned over, and nuzzled the baby gently.

Twilight's eyes became moist, her emotions getting the best of her.

"I know you miss him, Twilight." began Sparkler "But, I know he still exists somewhere out there. and, wherever he is..I know he is proud of you, AND him."

Twilight shut her eyes, tears falling down her cheek. "i..I promised him..that I wouldn't let anything bad happen to his-OUR son."

"and, You have KEPT your promise, and continue to do so. But, these things happen, Twilight: You can't foalproof the whole world."

Twilight looked at the jeweler. "maybe not..but, I can do my best, anyway."

Twilight then walked over to where Derpy was. the alicorn paused..then, lowered her head down and nuzzled her sleeping foal gently.

Twilight then looked at Derpy. "watch him..i'll be back soon."

Twilight then turned and left, returning to her 'job'. Sparkler then approached Derpy, looking at her.

"she's..really taking this hard."

"I don't blame her for feeling the way she does." began Derpy "I've often felt the same when Dinky is bullied at school."

Dinky looked down upon hearing this, frowning. the filly then looked at Alex Jr..then, proceeded to lay down beside the foal.

for some reason, she found a "kindred spirit" with him. "I just hope she doesn't do anything extreme." continued Sparkler "that she doesn't allow this event to make her Aggressive and Obsessive in her mothering."

"Twilight is smart, Sparkler: She wouldn't go that far." said Derpy

the unicorn exhaled sharply. "I hope you are right, Derpy..for HIS sake."

[Much, MUCH Later That Day]

At long last the Winter Warp-Up was OVER. any remnants of the cold season was gone, and Ponyville was all ready for Spring.

But, Twilight wasn't ready to call it a night..she still had some personal business to take care of.

With a determined look on her face, Twilight began to march straight for the mansion home of Filthy Rich.

she wasn't alone in her "mission", with her was Rainbow Dash and Applejack, both of which were just as angry over the Diamond Tiara incident.

"oooh, when I'ah get my hooves on that spoiled brat: I'LL TAN HER HIDE!" growled Applejack

"Get in LINE." added Rainbow Dash

"now, GIRLS.." began Twilight, her tone stern "we aren't going to Mr. Rich to pick a fight, we are going to discuss a rational, fair punishm-" "She HIT a BABY, Twilight!" snapped Rainbow Dash "now, I don't know about you, but I say it's time to "crack the whip" on this brat!"

"I'ah agree: that kid needs tuh be taught a SERIOUS lessin'." said Applejack

"and, she WILL be..but by her Father, not us." Rainbow eyed Twilight. "oh, GET. A. CLUE, Twilight! that Filthy Rich guy NEVER does anything to make his brat behave, EVER!"

"he will when I make clear what happened..and, how SERIOUS that I am."

as Twilight continued onward..Rainbow Dash began to whisper in Applejack's ear. "you still have your granny's shotgun?"

"it's in mah saddlebag." replied Applejack, also whispering

"good. be ready to whip that bad boy out."

"What are you two whispering about!?" said Twilight

Rainbow Dash and Applejack put on BIG smiles. "NOTHIN!"

Twilight eyed them suspiciously..then, continued on. as Rainbow and AJ exhaled sharply, Rainbow Dash spoke again. "THAT was close..you've got the lousiest "poker face" EVER!"

Applejack blushed bright red. "Sorry."

Finally, the three mares arrived at the mansion home of Filthy Rich, the richest pony in Ponyville.

while this was the first time Twilight and Rainbow had been here since they never had much reason to come here before, Applejack was well familiar with the Rich Mansion, as he did business with her family come every Zap Apple Season.

If Twilight didn't tell Filthy Rich's ear off, SHE certainly would.

approaching the large doors, twilight ringed the bell..after a few minutes, a butler pony answered the door.

"you RANG?" said the butler, his tone low

"hello." began Twilight, behaving politely. "I am Twilight Sparkle..PRINCESS Twilight Sparkle. and, me and my friends are hear to speak with Mr. Filthy Rich."

the Butler remained stonefaced..then, stepped aside. "of course, come right in your highness."

Twilight smiled as she walked inside..Applejack walked in as well, while Rainbow Dash took a moment to stick her tongue out at the butler before entering herself. "riff-raff." grumbled the butler

As the three ponies entered the mansion, they stopped and paused. amazed at how large it was.

"(long whistle) wow..Didn't know they had houses like THIS in Ponyville." began Rainbow Dash "this place is almost as big as Celestia's Palace."

"ALMOST being the keyword." added Twilight "Remember, I lived in Canterlot long before I came to Ponyville. This place is a "cottage" compared to what I'm use to."

Applejack could tell by Twilight's tone that she was in a foul mood. she almost felt sorry for Filthy Rich, who was no doubt going to get quite the earfull from Twilight..ALMOST.

At that moment, a stallion in a fancy looking business suit walked in.

"Ah..The Princess." began Filthy Rich "Always a pleasure to host visiting royalty." Twilight bore a plain face, obviously not "buying" what Rich was "selling".

"And, APPLEJACK. How are you?! I hope your grandmother is doin-" "This ain't a social visit, Mr. Rich..NOR did we come alll this way to talk business." began Applejack, cutting him off

Filthy Rich raised a brow. "oh?"

Twilight walked up to him. "We are here on account of an incident..which involves your DAUGHTER."

"Diamond Tiara?!, is she hurt!?" Rainbow Dash flew right into his face. "NO!, SHE hurt Somepony!"

"WHAT!?"

"Perhaps we should discuss this someplace else." said Twilight, her tone low

"uhh..r-right, sure." said Filthy Rich, shaken

[Later, at the Den]

Filthy Rich stood near a burning fireplace, repositioning objects upon the mantle. he then looked back at the three mares..who eyed him with "dagger eyes" "Do you, uhh..n-need anything?" said Filthy Rich, feeling nervous

"no, we don't." said Twilight "we just want to TALK."

"About your DAUGHTER." said Rainbow Dash, saying "daughter" quite venomously

Filthy Rich exhaled at this. "Look, if my little Diamond Tiara is having trouble making frien-" "HAVING TROUBLE!?..MAKING Trouble is more like-!" Twilight placed a hoof over Rainbow Dash's mouth

"If you give us a minute, Perhaps we can explain.." said Twilight

"Yes..I would appreciate that." Twilight breathed out sharply..trying to keep herself CALM. Finally, she began speaking. "Mister Rich, do you know of a pony by the name of Alex Cosmos?"

The wealthy stallion stared at the alicorn princess. "No, I can't say that I have..what does he have to do with this?"

"EVERYTHING!" snapped Twilight suddenly, scaring Filthy Rich for a moment "He has EVERYTHING to do with this."

Twilight approached Filthy Rich. "Do you know who he even WAS?!"

"W-Well, I-" "He was a GREAT Stallion!" snapped Twilight, her emotions running wild "He was Sweet, Kind, Selfless. and, while he wasn't the RICHEST pony who ever lived, NOR a Prince..I LOVE HIM!, I loved him until the day I had to watch him die!"

Filthy Rich swallowed hard. "well..I-I-I'm so very sorry for your loss, Your Highness. b-but, I fail to see what all of that has to do with-"

"Before he died, he left behind a son..MY Son." continued Twilight, her eyes getting moist "a son who looks SO MUCH like his daddy..I swear they were the same pony. a son who I've come to LOVE and CHERISH with all my heart..(voice breaking) A SON THAT YOUR DAUGHTER HURT!"

"WHAT!?" exclaimed the stallion, shocked "Confused?!, then let ME spell it out for you.." began Rainbow Dash, with obvious sarcasm "Your "sweet little angel" BUCKED A BABY!"

Filthy Rich was stunned at this. "it..It must be some mistake." "It was NO MISTAKE!" shouted Rainbow Dash, again getting into the stallion's face "I was there, I saw the WHOLE B*CKING THING! she hit a baby as hard as she could, and didn't care at all if it was wrong!"

"It's TRUE." added Applejack "Mah' sister and her friends were lookin after the youngin' while we all did our jobs durin' the Winter Wrap-Up, and Diamond Tiara and her friend Silver Spoon decided to bully them.

Pickin' on kids their own age is one thing..but, hurtin' a little foal whose only been born for a few months is ANOTHER. as one of Alex Jr's godmothers, we take this VERY seriously, Mister Rich."

Filthy Rich was beside himself. Twilight then approached him. "So..what are you going to do about this?!"

Rich exhaled sharply. "i'll..have a talk with her." the glares from the three mares told him that they WEREN'T satisfied with his answer.

"That's EXACTLY what Ms. Cheerilee said you would do when Diamond Tiara bullied Applebloom for not having a Ma and Pa like everypony else." said Applejack

"and, when telling Scootaloo that she'd NEVER fly!" added Rainbow Dash

"AND, when she said that Sweetie Belle singing could make ponies DEAF." said Twilight

Applejack and Rainbow Dash both stared at Twilight. "How do you-" "The Crusaders like to spend time with me..we TALK." said Twilight

Twilight eyed Filthy Rich. "Simply talking isn't going to stop this, Mister Rich. she needs to be disciplined for her unacceptable actions!"

"D-D-Disciplined!? exclaimed the stallion "But..But, I've NEVER disciplined her in my entire life!"

Rainbow Dash merely scoffed at this. "Which explains why she is such a SPOILED BRAT!"

Rich hated to admit it..but, what the rainbow maned pegasi said had a ring of truth to it. everyday he heard More and MORE complaints regarding Diamond Tiara, and her behavior hadn't improved despite the lectures he gave.

"Mister Rich.." began Twilight, speaker calmer "I don't think you are a bad pony..unlike some wealthy ponies, you aren't Greedy, Vain or Coldhearted..but, your parenting skills is severely lacking."

Oddly enough, Rich took no offense to Twilight's words..In fact, he actually agreed with her. "Understand THIS: My son is my first and only child..and, all that remains of a stallion who I loved more than my own life. and, what's more I know what it feels like to be bullied..So, I am NOT going to stand for this. Now, either YOU do something about Diamond Tiara..or, I WILL."

Filthy Rich felt a chill run down his spine. What WOULD the Princess and Element of Magic do to his daughter!? "L-Like what?!" stuttered Rich, dreading her answer

"I'd like to say that I would turn her to stone, and banish her to the moon for one-thousand years..but, I am not that kind of Princess. but, whatever it is I do..I won't be kind."

Applejack finally walked up. "Well, if Twi doesn't do something, I'ah certainly will!"

Filthy Rich looked at the farmer mare. "Mister Rich, I'ah know fer a fact that Mah' family made YER family wealthy with our Zap Apple Jam. well, if you DON'T punish Diamond Tiara fer this outrage..I'll tell mah' granny to deny you any more jam come the next Zap Apple Season. an' as the element of honesty..you know I'ah don't make idle threats."

NOW, Filthy Rich really didn't like this. not only did Granny Smith's Zap Apple Jam make his grandfather wealthy..but, they continued to make HIM wealthy as well. and, while he had other profitable businesses..the Apple Family have always been his "Bread & Butter"

To lose business with them was to invite bankruptcy.

Finally, Rich nodded. "okay..I'll do something about Diamond Tiara."

"PROVE IT!" snapped Rainbow Dash, fire in her eyes

Filthy Rich narrowed his eyes..then, a stern look appear on his face. "DIAMOND TIARAAAAAA!" shouted the Stallion, his voice thundering through the halls of his mansion.

after a few minutes, small approaching clopping sounds were heard..and, in walked the "accused" in question.

"(loud groan) this had BETTER be important, Dadd-!" the filly stopped dead in her tracks upon seeing she was not alone with her father. her blood REALLY ran cold upon seeing Twilight Sparkle. "AAHHH!"

Diamond Tiara attempted to flee..but, was stopped by her father's stern voice. "Diamond Tiara Rich!" the stood frozen in place. even SHE knew better than to disobey her father when he spoke like that. "COME. HERE." defeated, Diamond Tiara turned back and walked rather slowly to her father, and his three angry guests.

"The princess tells me you've been misbehaving..AGAIN."

"I-DIDN'T-DO-IT!" exclaimed Tiara rapidly "It was SILVER SPOON!"

Rainbow Dash flew right at her. "Don't you DARE lie to us, I SAW WHAT YOU DID!"

"Rainbow, enough." said Twilight, monotoned. Rainbow Dash looked back at the alicorn. "BUT-!" "ENOUGH!" repeated Twilight. Rainbow Dash grumbled as she returned to her spot. Filthy Rich then returned to his daughter, his eyes stern.

"I am told you were picking on those Crusaders, again..despite the fact I told you NOT TO. but, I am also told that you hit a foal in the face..is this TRUE!?"

Rich waited for Tiara's answer, hoping to Celestia, Faust and even Zacherle that his daughter would not disappoint him, and tell the truth. "NO."

"Yer' lyin." said Applejack, sternly

Diamond Tiara glared at the farm pony. "Who ask YOU, Peasant!?"

"EE-NOUGH!" shouted Filthy Rich, his heart official broken. Diamond Tiara shut right up, Knowing she was in deep. "It's bad enough that my "sweet angel" acts more like a devil to foals that SHOULD be her friends..but, you hurt a baby! an Innocent Baby!, then LIED to me about it!"

"But-!" "NO BUTS!" snapped Rich "It's clear now that while I am a successful businesspony..I am a colossal failure as a father. my failure has turned you vain, malicious and coldhearted..you are not the same foal I once held in my arms so long ago."

Diamond Tiara only scoffed at this..which only added to Rich's regret and self-loathing. "Are we DONE here?!"

"NO!, we are NOT." snapped Rich "not until you are punished for this unacceptable behavior."

Diamond Tiara simply rolled her eyes. "Oh, like making apologize to those blank flanks!?"

"more lies won't solve anything..No, you need to learn how WRONG this is. and, since I am obviously no good at discipline..I will have The Princess decide your fate."

This made Diamond Tiara's blood run ice cold, her heart nearly stopping. "Wa-Wa-WHAT!?"

Filthy Rich looked to Twilight. "Whatever you choose, I shall allow it..since I know you are trying to be fair."

Twilight nodded. "of course." the purple alicorn then approached Diamond Tiara, the images of her son's tears and the hoof-shaped bruise on his face still fresh in her mind..as was her own painful memories of being a victim of bullying.

At last, she stopped before the terrified filly. keeping her emotions at bay, she inhaled deeply..then, spoke. "diamond tiara..what you have done is the most horid thing that ANY pony could do. I have every right to turn you to stone, and banish you to the very ends of Equestria..FOREVER-"

"NO!. Please..d-don't!" begged Tiara, now on her knees, crying "BUT..I am not that kind of princess." continued Twilight "Your punishment won't be quite as severe..but, I guarentee you won't like it."

Twilight extended her wings out, her eyes then glowed white as her body glowed with a lavender aura. "DIAMOND TIARA!" began Twilight, speaking in the "Royal Canterlot" Voice "FOR YOUR UNSPEAKABLE CRIME, YOU ARE BANISHED TO IGNEOUS ROCK AND CLOUDY QUARTZ ROCK FARM, AND WILL WORK HARD LABOR UNTIL PRINCESS CELESTIA HAS RAISED THE SUN THREE-HUNDRED AND SIXTY-FIVE TIMES!"

"What?!" exclaimed Tiara, in panic "NO!, You can-!" "I HAVE SPOKEN!" with that, Twilight returned to her normal self.

Twilight glanced over at Filthy Rich. "I trust you have no objections with my decision?" the dark maned stallion bore a solemn look on his face..but, nodded sadly. "no."

Diamond Tiara stared blankly at her father, her mouth hanging open. "d-d-daddy?"

Twilight's eyes glowed white again as she jerked her head, staring right at the stunned filly. as her horn charged with a fire-like energy..Tiara turned tail and ran.

Twilight fired a "zig-zag" beam which zeroed in on Diamond Tiara, and struck at her like a bolt of lightning. "NOOOOOOOOoooooooooo!" screamed Tiara, as she disappeared in a flash of light..leaving behind only a scorch mark on the floor, and a lone diamond encrusted tiara.

"With some hope Pinkie Pie's family will teach her some values." began Twilight "and, she'll returned a changed pony by next year."

Filthy Rich continued to frown..but breathed out, accepting that this was the only way. he then looked to Twilight. "Princess Twilight..words cannot begin to describe how sorry I am that this has happened."

Twilight smiled warmly. "your apology is enough, Mister Rich."

"NO, I want to make this right. Is there ANYTHING I can do to make up for this?"

Before Twilight could answer herself, Rainbow Dash flew right into the stallion's face. "You could START by giving Twilight TEN-THOUSAND BITS! being a single parent to a foal ain't easy, ya' know!"

"RAINBOW!" growled Twilight, embarrassed at the cyan pegasi's demand. "That's outrageous." said Applejack

Twilight exhaled sharply. "Thank You, Appleja-" "One Thousand Bits should be enough tuh' get by." Twilight's jaw dropped.

"TEN-Thousand!" snapped Rainbow Dash "No, ONE-Thousand!" retorted Applejack

both mares got into each other's faces. "TEN-Thousand!" "ONE-Thousand" "TEN-Thousand" "ONE-Thosand!"

"ENOUGH!" shouted Twilight, now fully embarrassed at both her friends behavior. "I am not going to extort money from Mister Rich. I am NOT that kind of mare!"

"oh, I don't know, your highness.." began Filthy Rich "I think I should do something for your son."

Twilight looked at the stallion. "fine..do what you feel is right. but right now, I have a son I need to get back to. good evening." with that, Twilight turned and walked off..followed closely by Rainbow Dash and Applejack.

"should've taken the money."

"ZIP IT."

[Later, at the Doo House]

The trio walked up to the front door of Derpy's house, and promptly knocked the door. It opened, and the three were greeted by Sparkler. "TWILIGHT!, your back!"

Twilight smiled. "Hi, Sparkler..I've come to take Alex home."

Sparkler motioned Twilight to come inside..which she as well as RD and AJ did. as they entered, the three took a moment to examine their surroundings. Derpy's house was remarkably Neat and Tidy. a far cry from what was expected of the "clumsiest pegasi of cloudsdale"

"Wow..this is a nice house." said Rainbow Dash

"Ya'll expecting maybe a disaster area?" said Applejack

Rainbow Dash blushed bright red. "W-Well, I uhh-" "How has my son been doing since I left?" asked Twilight

Sparkler smiled at the alicorn. "Just fine, he's been no trouble at all. I have NEVER seen such a well behaved baby."

Twilight took some pride in this. "Takes after his mother..AND, his father."

as they four ponies walked down a hallway..Sparkler made a quiet 'shush', telling them to be quiet. as they tip-hooved silently down the hall..twilight began to hear soft singing. Sparkly gently creaked open a door..Twilight looked and saw Derpy laying near a slumbering Alex Jr. AND Dinky, singing a sweet lullaby.

Derpy Sings "Anytime You Need a Friend."

Twilight smiled, her eyes a little moist. finally, she walked into the room. "derpy." Derpy looked at Twilight. "Oh, HI Twilight! great to see you."

Twilight walked over to the bed and looked down at her infant son who was snuggled up to Dinky, both fast asleep. Twilight smiled weakly as she reached over, and stroked his mane with her hoof. "thank you for looking after him, Derp- Ditzy."

"Oh, it was no problem." began Derpy "Dinky has So Much Fun with with, and the little muffin was no trouble at all. so well behaved."

Twilight smiled at her son..and also at Dinky, who may very well be Alex Jr's first REAL friend.

finally, Twilight spoke again. "Derpy..I-, that is..I hope you don't mind, but-" "You want him to spend the night?!" said Derpy, cutting off Twilight..who nodded "I can't wake him up NOW..not when he's so peaceful."

"Sure..I can look after him unto tomorrow." Twilight looked at the blonde pegasi. "Thank you, Derpy. your kindness may very well rival Fluttershy's."

Rainbow Dash grimaced as she imagined for a moment Derpy being one of the elements of harmony. "naw, I just can't see it." thought the rainbow maned pegasi

Twilight leaned down and gently nuzzled her son's face, tears streaming down her cheek as he mind wandered again to his father.

she then gave the green foal a soft kiss on his cheek. "sleep well, baby..mama will come back for you tomorrow."

Alex Jr. scooted a bit in bed. "hmmm..mama." muttered the infant in his sleep.

Twilight gasped, as did Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Alex Jr. just said his first word!

"he..he said.."Mama." stuttered Twilight, in shock. tears then forms in the Alicorn's eyes, a smile on her face. "he called me "Mama."

Twilight finally leaned over..and, kissed the foal atop his head. "sweet dream, alex..and, don't you fear. Nopony will ever hurt you anymore." At last, Twilight turned away and rejoined her friends. before she left, Derpy spoke again. "How did things go with Diamond Tiara?"

Twilight looked back at her child's caretaker. "fine. the spoiled brat's been sent to a Rock Farm for a full year." began Twilight "Hopefully, the experience will teach her some humility and good manners."

Derpy looked relieved, no doubt assuming (like most everypony) that PRINCESS Twilight would have done something drastic.

"Well..see you tomorrow. I'm cerain little alex will be happy to see you." Twilight smiled at Derpy. "and, I him."

Twilight at last left the room..but, Rainbow Dash and Applejack remained for some reason.

Applejack was the first to approach the bed, stroke Alex's mane and give him a soft kiss. "sweet dreams, youngin' yer' mama is right: nopony will EVER hurt you anymore..I'ah promise. an' Applejack ALWAYS keeps her promises."

Applejack kissed his head again. then, finally turned away..allowing Rainbow Dash to say her goodbye to the sleeping baby. the cyan pegasus stared at the baby for a moment. the image of his father, one of her friends, flashing in her mind like every other time she laid eyes on the foal.

she leaned down, her face close to his. she didn't do anything yet..she just kept her face close to Alex Jr. "i'm sorry." said Rainbow Dash, finally. "i wasn't able to protect you..just like i failed to protect your father so long ago."

tears formed in her eyes, which fell down her cheek as she shut them tight. "b-but, i won't fail again..I swear on my father's grave that I WON'T fail you ever again." Rainbow's tears fell atop Alex's face. which shimmered, before dissipating.

she then kissed him softly on his head. "sweet dreams, kiddo." Rainbow Dash finally left, leaving Alex Jr. in the apparent capable hooves of Derpy and Sparkler.

[Later]

Twilight Sparkle waited outside Derpy's house for her friends. not really knowing WHAT was keeping them..or caring for that matter. she just took the time to bask in the silence of the night..and, think about some things.

the young alicorn looked up at the starry sky..and, nearly choked up at seeing the constellation of stars that bore the image of her late coltfriend: Alex Cosmos. words could not describe the graditude Twilight felt towards Princess Luna for "painting" that image in the night sky. it was only at NIGHT that Twilight felt peace, as she liked to believe that Alex was looking down on her from those very stars.

of course, she knew such a thing was Nonsense..but, it helped for her to believe it anyway.

At last, Applejack and Rainbow Dash came out of Derpy's house. "saying your goodbye's?" said Twilight, her gaze still focused on the sky.

Applejack shrugged. "yeah. pretty much." Twilight smiled, at last looking down. "well..let's all get home."

"I'ahm surprised yer' lettin yer' son stay here..or, Anywhere fer that matter." continued Applejack "you usually nev'er let lil' alex out of yer sight."

"I trust derpy." began Twilight, her voice small "she care for my son as if he were her own..AND, she is a mother herself. So, I believe I can sleep well tonight knowing my son is in good hooves."

Rainbow Dash exhaled sharply. "well..I guess there has to be 'something' derpy is good at, I suppose." Rainbow immediatly covered her mouth upon finishing her sentence. "oh faust, I said something RUDE again, didn't I?!"

"yep, you did." said Applejack, not at all pleased.

"I'm SORRY.." said Rainbow Dash. "sometimes I can't help myself."

"we understand, rainbow." said Twilight. "Just try a little bit hard to restrain yourself, Okay?"

Rainbow Dash nodded. "yes..I w-will."

Twilight inhaled deep..then, breathed out. "alright, everypony..see you tomorrow."

Applejack nodded. "g'night, Twi."

"Yeah..good night." said Rainbow Dash

Twilight charged her horn, and disappeared in a flash of violet light..

..Twilight then reappeared at the door of the Oak Tree Library. she smiled weakly, then entered her house.

Inside, she found Spike sweeping the floor, and looked to be about finished with his chore.

the purple dragon looked at Twilight and smile. "Hey, Twilight." Twilight raised a single hoof. "hi, spike."

the dragon raised a brow. "Where's Alex?" Twilight breathed out softly. "spending the night with a friend."

like Applejack before..Spike showed surprise at this. "wait..You left your only son at another house?!"

"yes." replied Twilight

"as in..not THIS house." continued Spike "(sigh) Yes, Spike." repeated Twilight, getting annoyed

"meaning we'll go to sleep here..but he won't be here, because he's at anoth-" "YES, SPIKE! I left him with somepony else JUST FOR TONIGHT!" snapped Twilight

Spike stroked his chin as he pondered this. "naw, just can't believe it."

"Why not?!" said Twilight "Well, you've been attached to that kid ever since he was born." continued Spike "almost like the two of you had a bungee cord tied to your legs. So, pardon me if I find the idea of you leaving him with somepony else difficult to swallow."

Twilight eyed her "little brother." "well, BELIEVE it. just for tonight, we have the whooole place to ourselves."

Twilight then walked off, leaving Spike to his duties. the young alicorn approached a desk were some papers, quills and ink lay. she sat down, levitated a quill into some ink..and, began to write a letter.

'Dear Princess Celestia..

I am writing this letter to you as both a status report on my son,

AND, as a notification on my latest 'royal decree' as a princess.

During the Winter Wrap-Up Celebration, my son was hurt by a filly named Diamond Tiara.

she was bullying Applebloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo..and, then hit my baby in the face.

I had a talk with her father, but It became clear he was "unable" to properly punish her.

So, as a princess, I banished her to the Rock Farm that Pinkie Pie's parents run for a full year.

I hope you approve of my decision. I felt it was the only fair thing to do.

If not, then please tell me of a better alternative.

I..I just can't allow my son to be bullied. both Myself, and his father endured that.

and, i'll be d*mned if I allow my only son to suffer in such a way.

Your Loyal Apprentice

-Princess Twilight Sparkle.'

Twilight rolled up the letter, and sealed it. "SPIKE!, I have a letter that needs to be sent."

[Meanwhile, In an Unknown Location]

a shadowy figure draped in a black hooded cloak made it's way down a long, dark path. he came to a stop..and using his unihorn, cast a very powerful spell. he muttered something..summoning smokey formless shadows. a pair of eyes formed from within the shadows. eyes that were green-and-red, with purple smoke emitting from them.

"master.." began the cloaked unicorn. the entity didn't look pleased. "WELL, WELL, WELL..IF IT ISN'T MY MOST FAITHFUL FAILURE." began the enity, his demonic voice booming

"M-Master, PLEASE..have merc-" "YOU HAD A SIMPLE JOB TO DO: FREE ME FROM THIS PURGATORY. AND, YOU COULDN'T EVEN DO 'THAT' RIGHT!?

"W-Well, I was..detained with-" "-WITH DELUSIONS OF GRANDEUR!" began the entity, clearly enraged. "YOU WASTED SO MUCH TIME WITH YOUR 'OWN' PLANS, THAT YOU FAILED TO EVEN BEGIN THE RITUAL TO RESTORE MYSELF.

the entity moved closer, giving his underling the "evil eye" "NOW LOOK AT YOU: DEAD, YET ANOTHER RESIDENT OF THIS SPIRIT REALM. I WOULD SMITE YOU WHERE YOU STAND IF I STILL POSSESSED A PHYSICAL FORM IN ORDER TO DO SO."

the unicorn kneeled before the entity. "m-My liege..a-all is NOT lost!, I can still restore your being. In fact, my "non-corporeal" may give us the edge to do just that!"

the entity "eyed" him. "EXPLAIN" the Unicorn stood up. "D-During my time here, I uncovered an ancient tome full of dark magic." the Unicorn levitated a black book before the entity "containing just the spells we need to bring about your Glorious Return!"

the Entity eyed him, apparently thinking. "I-I just need a little more time..that's all." the Entity glared at him again. "I AM NOT IN THE MOOD FOR MORE DISAPPOINTMENT, LIONEL..YOU HAVE 'THREE DAYS AND NIGHTS' TO SET ME FREE. OR, MY OTHER FOLLOWERS WILL SEE TO IT THAT YOU PAY FOR YOUR INSOLENCE."

the Unicorn (Lionel) bowed. "Yes, King Sombra..as you command."

THE END..For now.

Author's Note:

The long awaited Final Part of my Death and Rebirth miniseries (after which I shall start the main story Beyond Life and Death)

I am sure many would have wanted me to have Twilight turn Diamond Tiara to stone, and banish her to the moon for 1000 years..

BUT, as Twilight said "She isn't THAT kind of Princess."

the punishment I did choose is pretty much the same that befell Trixie Lulamoon (working in a Rock Farm)

and, given that it's Pinkie Pie's "amish" family..she isn't going to have much fun.

I also tried to make Filthy Rich a bit more sympathetic. Sure, he's a businesspony with poor parenting skills.

but, he isn't greedy, vain or uncaring when it comes to his daughter bullying other children.

the important thing is that he acknowledges his failings..and, wants to make things right the best he can.

(I also couldn't resist having Applejack make her "threat" to Filthy Rich, given that her family DOES keep him wealthy.)

Just for fans, I brought back Derpy, and gave her a larger role than when I last wrote her in.

if the fandom is to be trusted, then Derpy has excellent parenting skills and knows how to care for babies.

oh, yeah..and, I included yet another Disney Song.

this one is a song that could very well be an alternate theme song for My Little Pony.

the very last scene is a teaser, and a set-up for things to come in my main story.

So, to see what happens next, you'll have to wait for Beyond Life and Death.