Star Swirl and The Legends!! | My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Season 7 Episode 25 & 26 REACTION + Discussion
Added 2024-09-29 17:00:06 +0000 UTC
Comments
Thanks! You have no idea 😏 - Soon i will, soon 😀
DeViruZz.eXe
2024-10-18 19:10:16 +0000 UTCAfter reading your thoughts, I gained an even higher appreciation and respect for these episodes. I already loved the entire aspect of the lore, history, redemption, and generational problems but reading your amazing insight was wonderful! Might just ramble but here I go. Starlight the MVP. She really has become such an integral part to empathizing, redemption, forgiveness, and villains. We see Gilda and Diamond Tiara but Starlights ability and impact is unmatched. Loved your mention of both sides fail each other through not communicating. I agree that starswirl’s appearance was a bit disappointing but I also believe in meeting your heroes not going well and twilight got a first hand look at it. and I also don’t think it’s out of character for her because as we talked about, she was starstruck and thought they were infallible. Heck she still thinks too highly of the other alicorn. Plus, this also allowed starlight to be clutch and reaffirm her level headed perspective. Yes the scavenging for pieces was a bit rushed. With the pear episode, the way they talked and showed the history and impact they had, you got to fully take in and know them. Here it seems they had too much to get to so they had to brush it off. The Stygian story and starswirl’s banish happy hand was also fascinating. And that moment when starlight called out twilight was heartbreaking. Oh and yes that reaction of the sirens might have been a top moment for me. Don’t think I’ve ever screamed like that 😂🤣 The tree of harmony is quite peculiar but you and others cleared a lot of my questions so I understand the bigger picture and the stakes. The big thing was the second half of the season having its own internal story as the pillars and the parallels to the mane 6 paid off here! And you taking about how it sort of supersedes and continues through generations was poetic and couldn’t be more true. Think we are on the same track where despite some clear issues, this was also extremely satisfying and full circle. And damn I remember that shadow when i thought it was tirek 😂 Thank you again for all the kind words and the time you put into these! Hope to see you for S8!! 💙
Ed
2024-10-18 06:21:58 +0000 UTCI am sorry in advance, but this will be a long one... - Some notes/thoughts/facts: - And you were right, that a book that was shown in "Uncommon Bond" at the end was from Starswirl the Bearded. https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/b/b9/Final_shot_of_Star_Swirl%27s_lost_journal_S7E24.png https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/1/14/Star_Swirl_the_Bearded%27s_lost_journal_S7E25.png Starswirl the Bearded: A legendary unicorn wizard and the powerful leader of the Pillars. (sorcery) Mistmane: A unicorn known for her beauty and wisdom, who sacrificed her youth to restore beauty to her homeland. (beauty) Mage Meadowbrook: A healer known for her knowledge of potions and remedies. (healer) Flash Magnus: A brave pegasus soldier who wielded a magical shield to rescue his comrades. (bravery) Somnambula: A pegasus known for her optimism and wisdom and drove away a Sphinx. (hope) Rockhoof: A mighty earth pony with immense strength, who rescued a town from lava. (strength) https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/d/d2/Illustration_of_Pillars_of_Old_Equestria_in_five-point_circle_S7E25.png And there was a 7th member, the one who brought them together and a helper who assisted them with everything, Stygian. Who betrayed them by stealing their artefacts. Dang it, you guessed it on point right away... I am impressed. Twilights enthusiasm about Starswirl knows no bounds... well for now... 😅 Princess Luna: "We never met the other Pillars, and we were too young to understand the danger they faced." - the more you know... 🤔 So the language the book is written in is called "Olde Ponish", i wonder if the current language is called "New Ponish", "Neo Ponish" or just "Ponish"? Its funny how they call it "Hornwriting" since they do it with the magic of their horns 😄 You are right, I love how Ponhenge is a play on Stonehenge the famous stone monument in England https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/2/29/The_Temple_of_Ponhenge_S7E25.png https://media.cnn.com/api/v1/images/stellar/prod/220303081037-stonehenge-file-restricted.jpg These are legit norse runes: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/0/09/Sunburst_uncovering_ancient_magic_runes_S7E25.png - Translated it's: "PONI RULES" - It's probably just an Easter egg, but if you want to consider it canonically, it raises some intriguing questions: Could there be an ancient connection between our world and Equestria? Twilight Sparkle: "I guess I hoped we'd get here and the mystery would just magically be explained." [...] Pinkie Pie: "Well, you did ask for a magical explanation." 🤣 The flashback in form of a hologram happening as a "lasting impression of magic" as Sunburst surmised was really a cool way to introduce the villain and show what happened. Also I like the Pony of Shadow's design: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/b/bd/The_Pony_of_Shadows_watching_the_Pillars%27_spell_S7E25.png Its funny how Twilight is always flurrying with her Wings as soon as she is excited about something, especially if its about her Idol Starswirl. Huh, it never occurred to me before that pegasi sometimes use their wings as extra limbs for holding or grabbing things... 🤔 Just like Twilight did here! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/0/0a/Twilight_holding_Star_Swirl%27s_journal_with_her_wing_S7E25.png - And I'm pretty sure this also happened with Fluttershy or Rainbow at some point... Twilight Sparkle: "I know I've finished one of Starswirl's spells before" - No, Ed, it wasn't time travel. That spell was already completed and functional. Twilight is referring to Starswirl's spell from "Magical Mystery Cure" in the Season 3 finale. Twilight perfected it, which earned her transformation into an Alicorn. "The snort" ... Yeah, Twilight's adorkable nature really shines through when she gets too excited. - I absolutely love that. They attempt to bring the Pillars back from Limbo - these legendary ponies from the past. If you recall the premiere, there was a scene where Twilight was imagining Starlight studying magic with Sunburst, and they ended up creating a black hole. Before that, Sunburst said, "If we do it just right, it should allow us to materialize an object lost in the past." Could that have been a hint or a reference to this moment? 😅 The map reacts to reclaiming the artefacts... not just friendship problems - is it a multipurpose map? 😀 Ah isn't that the archaeologist Petunia Paleo from the "The Fault in Our Cutie Marks" episode? https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/6/67/Petunia_Paleo_happy_with_her_discovery_S7E25.png Ponified version of Indiana Jones: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/4/45/Indiana_Jones_pony_starts_an_earthquake_S7E25.png Wow, AJ is seriously strong... All those years of applebucking are really paying off. 😏 https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/1/1c/Applejack_stops_the_boulder_with_her_hooves_S7E25.png Rarity isn't as fussy about getting dirty as she used to be, and she's gardening quite efficiently now. She might have been better suited to cleaning and pruning the park in 'Made in Manehattan' (S5E16), but a more likely explanation is that she's learned these skills over time and has also enhanced her magic in the process. https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/a/a7/Rarity_%22seemed_like_your_gardens_were_worthless%22_S7E25.png I think we never saw Spike riding on Rainbow... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/a/a7/Spike_%22good_thing_you_brought_the_official%22_S7E25.png - it seems surreal, because we only saw Twilight doing that... Also you are right, that's an interesting pairing... That's quite the way to make an entrance: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/0/0b/Spike_lands_on_the_finish_line_S7E25.png Rainbow Dash: "Hey! That's an ancient pony artifact!" Garble: "Hooves off my gorge board! I found it in the desert, and finders keepers." [...] Rainbow Dash: "Fine. I'm pretty sure I could beat you anyway. But with that heavy hunk of metal on your back, it'll be a snap." Garble: "Huh? Oh, yeah. Thanks for the tip." [shield clatters] Garble: "See ya at the top, loser! Hey! That's mine!" Spike: "Finders keepers, remember?" - Garble got mighty outplayed 🤣 "For Equestria!" - did you mean this? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AyMSHUBTSA - 🤣 Dunno why, but Fluttershy helping Cattail was kind of wholesome... Ah well that green goop wasn't of acidic nature... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/7/7a/Pinkie_Pie_appears_in_a_diving_suit_S7E25.png - Starlight is asking the right questions: Starlight Glimmer: "Well... nothing when you say it like that. Unless 'the most legendary ponies of all time' knew what they were doing, and we shouldn't mess with it." [...] Twilight Sparkle: "Starlight, Starswirl the Bearded is the greatest wizard who ever lived. The chance to have him back in Equestria is worth the risk." - But Twilight is also right... They are back! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/b/b6/Pillars_of_Old_Equestria_are_released_from_limbo_S7E25.png So much for worth the risk huh? - Twilight, you just unleashed an ancient evil, you fool! 😓 https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/4/4d/Pony_of_Shadows_cackling_to_the_sky_S7E25.png First, Tirek destroyed the Golden Oak Library (RIP), then Flurry's magical sneeze-bursts took out an important spellbook, and now Starswirl's journal is gone too... They really ought to consider casting a magical shield around these things at all times. https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/2/2e/Black_tendril_pierces_Star_Swirl%27s_journal_S7E26.png Win-moment with Starlight! She is the goat! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/3/37/Starlight_and_Twilight_blasting_magic_together_S7E26.png Starswirl the Bearded: "Then my spell worked – before it was meddled with – and the realm has been at peace for a millennia!" https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/b/b9/Twilight_hiding_her_face_from_Star_Swirl_S7E26.png - Wow, this is really tough on Twilight. She ended up jeopardizing her idol's plan... While he was right about the spell, especially concerning the Pony of Shadows, there were still issues: Pinkie Pie: "Weeeeell... we did have to save everypony from Nightmare Moon and Discord and Chrysalis and King Sombra and Lord Tirek, and there was that one time when Starlight traveled through time and almost destroyed life as we know it! But that's all in the past." 😋 Now, if we think back to the show's premiere, where Luna transformed into "Nightmare Moon" and was banished to the moon by Celestia, and also consider "Royal Problems", where the sisters faced yet another potentially disastrous conflict, I have an interesting hot-take theory about Starswirl the Bearded for you (It contains a few minor spoilers from the comics, but nothing significant from the show itself): https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zITO5Bpmdsk This is quite interesting to think about... 🤔 - And I bet its true. Regarding the show's timelines, I actually have an amazing video on that topic. But I'll hold off on sharing it until you're done watching, as it contains major spoilers. Somnambula: "Each of us infused a crystal seed with our magic in hopes that it would grow into a force for good." Mistmane: "We wanted to leave something to protect the realm in our absence, but we never dreamed our gift would become so powerful." - Turns out the Tree of Harmony was planted by the Pillars of Equestria! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/2/28/Tree_of_Harmony%27s_image_appears_on_the_map_S7E26.png - You were right again, Ed! I'm starting to think you're either one of the writers or just psychic! 😅 No Ed, Discord planted the Plunderseeds which was later attacking the tree. 😅 Though the tree is again in jeopardy as it contains the promised power to defeat the Pony of Shadows and has to be sacrificed... I must admit... Starswirl isn't as charismatic as I hoped him to be... 😒 Also, "talk to my hoof" 😅 - he truly resents Twilight for her mistake. - Although its understandable. https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/6/6c/Star_Swirl_the_Bearded_dismisses_Twilight%27s_concerns_S7E26.png Starlight Glimmer: "That's great. Heh. But I was thinking of another way that maybe doesn't involve banishing at all?" - Starlight seems to be onto something, but doesn't say it... I think it's her understanding of how some villains think, and how not everything is simply black and white. Twilight Sparkle: "Starswirl knew what he was doing when he cast that spell. If I can make it even better, maybe he'll see that I take magic as seriously as he does." - However, Twilight doesn't pick up on that and is still caught up in her fangirl quest for approval from her idol... Rockhoof: "It seems the dark places Starswirl indicated on the map have changed." - the Ghastly Caverns became the Ghastly Gorge as we know it - Appeloosian Wastes became a popular square dancing destination known as Appleloosa - And Manehattan was originally a scary dark place cast in eternal night 🤔 Starswirl the Bearded: "While I appreciate your enthusiasm, Twilight, this is hardly the time to take risks on half-baked spells." - I kind of really dislike you for that Starswirl... making Twilight sad like that... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/a/a5/Twilight_Sparkle_incredibly_discouraged_S7E26.png However, her friends are true angels here, insisting that Starswirl should at least consider Twilight's proposal and give it a chance, while giving her a boost of confidence. https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/b/b2/Twilight_Sparkle%27s_friends_stick_up_for_her_S7E26.png - Fluttershy: "Mm-hmm!" - I bet Fluttershy's stare here helped a lot 😅 Rarity: "Hmm, that's odd. The only time the map's called all of us to one place was Starlight's village." Rainbow Dash: "So it's like a super-villain tracker! No offense." https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/3/31/Starlight_Glimmer_raising_an_eyebrow_S7E26.png - too late Rainbow... Twilight Sparkle: "Do you think the map could be trying to tell us where the Pony of Shadows is?" Starswirl the Bearded: "Hmm... The Tree of Harmony acting to protect the light of the realm... Yes. A good thought, Twilight." - Finally some recognition! But wasn't that obvious since the map first appeared? https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/3/34/Twilight_ecstatic_about_Star_Swirl%27s_compliment_S7E26.png 😀 Starswirl the Bearded: "I doubt we can save our homeland with a conversation." - would you bet on it? Starswirl the Bearded: "The Pony of Shadows was not interested in reconciliation. Once a villain, always a villain." - That's a very harsh opinion... and that's also the very reason why you are not an Alicorn 🤣 And you are right Ed, that is against everything we learned this year. Starlight Glimmer: [sighs] "I know Starswirl is a great wizard, but this whole plan seems... wrong. The map's only ever sent us to solve friendship problems." - That right here is the key, Twilight is too blinded to recognize that very fact! But MVP Starlight is here to ask the right questions! Also we get to know more lore about the past! We've received confirmation that the Sirens were indeed trapped in the human realm! This means the EQG spinoff is no longer just a disconnected side story - it's officially recognized in the main show! At last, it's canon! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/c/c5/Sirens_collecting_negative_energy_from_the_village_S7E26.png It's the portal to the human realm! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/2/20/Somnambula_lures_the_Sirens_toward_the_portal_S7E26.png - Your reaction here was gold Ed! So Stygian was kind of Nick Fury of the Avengers, he assembled the the Pillars and created a strong team of heroes, but Stygian himself was just an ordinary scholar unicorn. The pillars think that he grew jealous and stole their artefacts... One of the background ponies in the Pillars' flashback is ugly and has a hunched back and an association with bells, similar to Quasimodo of The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. Starlight Glimmer: "And I'm just trying to figure out why." Starswirl the Bearded: "Envy. He wanted more power than he had, and that desire led him down a path from which there is no return!" Starlight Glimmer: "I know from experience that's not always true. When the map called you six to my village, it was for a friendship problem. Are you sure this is different?" Twilight Sparkle: "I..." Starswirl the Bearded: "Stygian wants to destroy all that is good in this world. There's no way to befriend a pony like that." Starlight Glimmer: "I guess I'm lucky your idol wasn't around when you decided to be my friend. I might've been banished to limbo, too." - Wow, this is a hard swallowing pill she gave Twilight here... but she is so right about that... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/9a/Starlight_%22I_might%27ve_been_banished_to_limbo%22_S7E26.png - So Starswirl made Twilight AND Starlight sad... - the Fandom clearly wasn't happy about that... 😅 Starlight Glimmer: "I really hope Twilight knows what she's doing..." -Yeah, we all do... You wanted an express-way to the Pony of shadows... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/94/Mane_Six_and_Pillars_fall_into_the_Well_of_Shade_S7E26.png ...you got an de-elevating experience... - yeah I see myself out 😅 Starswirl the Bearded: "We did what we had to do. You tried to steal our powers for yourself." Pony of Shadows: "No! It was you who were selfish! And now you will pay!" - well it seems the story of the Pillars wasn't the whole story... Starlight Glimmer: [To Twilight] "Are you still sure this isn't a friendship problem?" - hah... I love that girl... Finally, Twilight recognized the true Problem and instead of pushing Stygian into Limbo, as Starswirl wanted, she decides to go into the belly of the beast! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/3/39/Twilight_flies_into_the_Pony_of_Shadows_S7E26.png From Stygian's perspective, the Pillars betrayed him by refusing to even try to understand his side. It turned out he wasn't just an assembler - he was also a strategist, with deep knowledge about the beasts they faced. Yet, he was always excluded because he stood on the sidelines, unable to help directly. All he wanted was the Pillars' respect. He worked tirelessly to replicate their artifacts, hoping it would allow him to support them in a more direct way and finally earn their recognition, rather than remaining just an observer. - There are always two sides to a coin... This face of guilt! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/6/60/Star_Swirl_the_Bearded_realizing_his_mistake_S7E26.png - Finally, he got his own words right back at him..! The Elements are now used as they're intended to be use, for Friendships sake! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/7/7a/Mane_Six_and_Pillars%27_ropes_reach_out_to_Stygian_S7E26.png Thats one big rainbow explosion! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/9e/Rainbow_light_bursts_from_the_Well_of_Shade_S7E26.png Yeah, the metaphor of banishing the shadows of the past was indeed good. Pinkie Pie: "Friendship power rush! Whoo!" - It seems to be better than any drug? 😅 Rarity: "The Elements! They didn't disappear!" Fluttershy: "Maybe because we used them for healing magic instead of banishing?" - That's not entirely true, because it was used for both: rescuing Stygian and banishing the Shadows... Starswirl the Bearded: "Long ago, you needed our help, Stygian. But instead of listening, we turned our backs on you. Pride clouded my judgment. I owe you an apology. Thank you for helping us see the errors of our ways, Twilight. It seems I never accounted for the Magic of Friendship." - A much needed apology and insight from him, that's more of the kind of Starswirl I can get behind... Starlight Glimmer: [clears throat] "Soooo... apparently a conversation can save Equestria?" Starswirl the Bearded: [chuckles] "Something tells me I will be making a lot of apologies today." - You absolutely do... The reunion with the Princesses was a fitting way to conclude the finale. The Pillars are eager to visit their old homes, while Starswirl plans to travel across modern Equestria to experience it firsthand before deciding where to settle. Starswirl the Bearded: "We would be honored. But if it is wisdom you seek, look no further than your own pupil. She showed me that the power of friendship is a magical force indeed. And that in turning away from others, you hurt yourself as well." - This! Nuff said! You are dismissed! 😁 https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/92/Twilight_Sparkle_crying_tears_of_pride_S7E26.png Twilight Sparkle: "It's funny. I thought meeting my idol would give me all the answers I ever wanted. But instead, I forgot what I already knew. Good thing I had a student of my own to remind me." - So wholesome! Starlight is again the absolute winning MVP of the show! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/95/Twilight_Sparkle_and_Starlight_Glimmer_hugging_S7E26.png - Dawww! --- The Season 7 finale of My Little Pony took me by surprise in so many ways. Who could have predicted that a small detail, like Twilight's Nightmare Night costume in Season 2's 'Luna Eclipsed,' where she dressed as Starswirl the Bearded, along with other subtle mentions like an unfinished spell or the time-travel spell, would all foreshadow the return of this legendary figure after being lost for over a thousand years? - In a similar vein, the return of the Pony of Shadows was another unexpected twist. First mentioned back in Season 4 during the "Castle Mane-ia" episode, he was introduced as a mysterious figure, almost forgotten over time. But three seasons later, the writers revived these seemingly small detail and gave the character a fully fleshed-out storyline. It's incredible how a seemingly minor mention blossomed into a major plot point, culminating in their dramatic reappearance. This careful weaving of past references shows how intricately the show builds its lore, slowly drawing past moments into larger narratives to the show's universe over time. And then there's the discovery of Starswirl's journal which not only serves as a literal link to the past but also mirrors the very themes of friendship and reconnection that have been at the heart of the series. The parallels between the Mane Six's journey and the story of Pillars of Equestria are striking, reinforcing the show's core message about the enduring power of friendship. - Starswirl the Bearded and the Pillars of Equestria - The "Pillars of Equestria" are legendary heroes from Equestria's ancient past. Once believed to be mere myths, these characters were revealed to have played a pivotal role in shaping the early history of Equestria, even before the rise of the Alicorn sisters, Celestia and Luna. This expansion of the show's lore adds a fascinating layer, providing a richer glimpse into Equestria's ancient history and its enduring struggle between good and evil. Among these heroes was Starswirl the Bearded, a figure long mentioned throughout the series as one of the most powerful and influential unicorn wizards in Equestria's history. I was excited to finally see him appear, but his portrayal left me a bit with mixed feelings. Starswirl's legendary status had always painted him as a wise and almost untouchable mentor figure, but in this finale, he came across as surprisingly arrogant and dismissive, especially in his interactions with Twilight Sparkle and Starlight Glimmer. His harsh treatment of them was a little bit disappointing, particularly because of how much Twilight reveres him. However, considering Twilight's supposed mistake, his frustration was somewhat understandable, even if it felt at odds with his legendary reputation. Starswirl's failure to understand friendship was central to the episode's conflict and theme of redemption. His rigidity, particularly in how he wanted to deal with Stygian (The Pony of Shadows), without even hearing Stygian's side of the story, highlighted his flaws. He was so set on banishing Stygian permanently that he even dismissed any pleas for understanding and reconciliation. This lack of understanding mirrored what we saw in Season 3 when Twilight finished Starswirl's spell on friendship - a concept he never quite grasped. I found this aspect of Starswirl's character interesting - Did it show, that even someone as powerful, knowledgeable and wise as him could be wrong, especially when it came to the nuances of friendship. Starswirl's rigid approach to dealing with Stygian not only highlighted his personal shortcomings but also influenced those around him. The other Pillars of Equestria, while loyal to Starswirl, unfortunately followed his lead without question, which I found a bit frustrating. Each of these Pillars - Mistmane, Mage Meadowbrook, Flash Magnus, Somnambula, and Rockhoof - had their unique attributes and heroic histories, which were fascinating to learn about. But their collective decision to support Starswirl's approach without challenging it felt a little bit disappointing. It also showed how even heroic legends can be flawed. That's also why the initial dynamic between Starswirl and Twilight added another layer of tension to the episode. Twilight, who has looked up to Starswirl for so long, was suddenly forced to face his dismissive attitude head-on, which I think contributed to her own growth as a character. This tension between the idol and the student was one of the more compelling aspects of the episode. Seeing Twilight and Starlight, with their modern understanding of friendship, contrast with Starswirl's more rigid and outdated perspective of "once a villain, always a villain" was a great way to explore how even the most revered figures can have blind spots. And that's why I appreciated how the finale gave Starswirl a chance for growth. By the end of the episode, after much resistance, Starswirl admitted his mistakes. It was satisfying to see him learn from Twilight and Starlight, sending a powerful message that even the greatest figures can make mistakes. On a sidenote: Starswirl's approach to solving problems often involved banishing his foes into limbo or other dimensions, which seemed like a bit of a pattern with him. Whether it was the sirens, whom he trapped in the human world, or the Pony of Shadows, who he banished into limbo alongside himself and the other Pillars, Starswirl's first instinct always seemed to be opening portals and trapping threats rather than seeking other solutions. 🤔 - Stygian and the Pony of Shadows - The primary antagonist, the Pony of Shadows, is introduced as a dark, ominous entity that the Pillars of Equestria had long ago imprisoned in another dimension called Limbo, a timeless place that is nowhere and in-between at the same time. However, the twist that the Pony of Shadows was actually Stygian, a former ally and close friend of the Pillars, added some emotional depth to the story. Stygian's fall into darkness wasn't the result of inherent evil but rather a consequence of bitterness and feeling abandoned. The resolution of his conflict - his eventual redemption - ties perfectly into one of the show's overarching themes: that of forgiveness and second chances. - Or as Rainbow once said: "...We're a pretty forgiving group..." 😅 One of the strongest elements of this story is how it highlights the dangers of misunderstandings in friendships. Stygian's mistakes, like taking the artifacts without permission, were certainly misguided, but the real tragedy lay in the Pillars' failure to understand his motives. This episode makes it clear that the core issue wasn't Stygian's actions, but the lack of communication between him and his friends. The Pillars were too quick to assume the worst about their companion, and their decision to banish him without giving him a chance to explain led to unnecessary pain. This misjudgment not only left Stygian feeling hopeless, but also in a vulnerable state, susceptible to mind-altering influences like the dark force known as the "Shadows", which ultimately transformed him into the "Pony of Shadows". Stygian's backstory plays a pivotal role in these episodes, and it was handled with great care. At his core, Stygian wasn't a villain - his genuine desire was to protect Equestria. His attempt to duplicate the artifacts wasn't driven by theft or betrayal, but by a longing to gain the respect of the Pillars. As a mere scholar among powerful heroes, Stygian wanted to contribute more than just his intellect. He longed to be seen as more than an outsider, and the Pillars' failure to understand his intentions set the stage for his transformation. This dual perspective added depth to the conflict, making it more than a simple "good vs. evil" scenario. Moreover, it's important to acknowledge Stygian's role in assembling the Pillars in the first place. Despite being just a scholar, he united these heroes and formed a formidable team. His knowledge of the creatures they faced and his strategic thinking demonstrated that he wasn't a passive bystander - he was actively contributing, though the Pillars and others failed to recognize it. From his perspective, it must have been devastating to feel so undervalued by the very heroes he brought together and the ponies he sought to help. All Stygian wanted was recognition and respect, but instead, he was met with distrust. His attempt to replicate their artifacts was not out of jealousy but a desire to stand beside them, not remain on the sidelines. It serves as a poignant reminder that the breakdown of a relationship often stems from failures on both sides - a lack of empathy jealousy, poor communication, and hasty assumptions can all contribute to tragic outcomes. That said, I like the design of the Pony of Shadows. The swirling dark magic and menacing aura gave the character a powerful and imposing presence. - Twilight and Starlight - This finale was a powerful and emotional episode, particularly for Twilight and Starlight. Watching Twilight Sparkle finally meet Starswirl the Bearded, her lifelong idol, was an incredible moment. Since her first mention of him, where she nerded out and even dressed up as him, it was clear how much she revered Starswirl. It was no surprise then, that she was eager to uncover what had happened to him and the other Pillars of Equestria once Sunburst found that mysterious book. Her excitement and zeal to bring him back were palpable, but they also led her to make a critical oversight. Twilight's single-minded focus on saving Starswirl blinded her to the risks involved, despite Starlight's warnings. This felt slightly out of character for Twilight, who usually approaches situations with more caution and thoughtfulness. Her failure to fully consider the consequences was somewhat frustrating, as it's rare to see her make such a misstep. However, given her deep admiration for Starswirl, it made sense that she would be so fixated on bringing him back that she overlooked the potential danger of also releasing a villain like the Pony of Shadows. This moment highlighted a recurring theme for Twilight - her zeal and determination sometimes lead her astray, especially when she is emotionally invested. It went so far that she needed her former pupil, Starlight, to remind her of her own principles. This led to one of the most emotional moments, when Starlight broke into tears, questioning whether Twilight would have forgiven her if Starswirl had been present at that time in the Season 5 finale. In the end, however, this mistake turned out to be a blessing. The unintended revival of the Pony of Shadows became an elaborate friendship mission, one with higher stakes and a more complex history than usual. Twilight's decision to bring back the Pillars may have seemed reckless at first, but it ultimately led to the redemption of Stygian, a lost friend who had been misunderstood for so long, and the return of the Pillars of Equestria. The whole situation felt like a wink of fate, almost as if the Tree of Harmony had accounted for Twilight's zeal all along. This finale also marked a significant turning point for Twilight. Throughout the series, she idolized Starswirl, seeing him as the pinnacle of wisdom and power, but by the end of this episode, it was clear that Twilight had grown to surpass her idol - not just in magical prowess, but also in her understanding of friendship. By saving Stygian and bringing the Pillars back together, Twilight showed that she had become a true leader and master of friendship, even though she needed a little reminder from Starlight. It was a truly satisfying moment to witness. Speaking of Starlight Glimmer, she is again the MVP of this episode. Her arguments for redeeming the Pony of Shadows instead of simply banishing him showed just how much she has grown as a character. Her realization that the friendship map only calls for problems that can be solved through friendship was a brilliant insight. It was reminiscent of her role in the previous finale, where her understanding as a former villain helped her see the situation from a more nuanced perspective. Starlight's ability to see the grey areas and question the straightforward narrative Starswirl provided about Stygian - viewing him not as a simple villain, but as someone who may have had understandable reasons for his actions - was key to their eventual victory without any casualty. In this way, Starlight's journey mirrored her earlier attempts to reach out to Queen Chrysalis. She understands what it's like to be misunderstood, and this empathy allowed her to connect with Stygian on a deeper level. Her insight and compassion helped guide Twilight and the others to a peaceful resolution, proving once again that redemption is always an option if you're willing to understand the full story. - The Mane Six - Another standout aspect of the season finale was how skillfully the large cast of characters was managed. Despite the central focus being on Twilight and Starlight, every member of the Mane Six had a meaningful role, and even Spike was given moments to shine. The interactions among the characters felt natural, and each of them contributed to the overall story in their own way, which ensured that the ensemble cast never felt overwhelming and allowed the story to flow smoothly without sidelining anyone. This careful management also set the stage for deeper thematic connections. One of the most poignant was the parallel drawn between the Mane Six and the Pillars of Equestria. I loved how the show tied the core values of the Pillars - strength, bravery, healing, beauty, hope, and sorcery - to the Mane Six's traits of honesty, loyalty, kindness, generosity, laughter, and magic. This connection felt both meaningful and symbolic, showcasing how the Mane Six have always embodied these timeless virtues, much like their legendary predecessors. It added a layer of depth to their characters and made their growth over the seasons even more profound. This exploration of thematic connections wasn't just abstract - it also translated into emotional moments that highlighted the strength of the characters' relationships. A particularly touching example was when the Mane Six stood up for Twilight after Starswirl the Bearded criticized her magic as half-baked. It was a powerful reminder of how far they've come as a group, not just as individuals but as friends who support each other unconditionally. Seeing them rally around Twilight in that moment was heartwarming and another testament to how much their bond has strengthened over the course of the series. - The Elements and the Tree of Harmony - This finale also brought some fascinating revelations about the origins of the Elements of Harmony and the Tree of Harmony. I particularly appreciated the way the writers connected the ancient heroes, the Pillars of Equestria, with the present-day protectors - Twilight Sparkle and her friends - by establishing that the Pillars planted the "seed" of the Tree of Harmony, which would later grow into the source of the Elements. It was a brilliant way to link the past with the present. It really emphasized a sense of continuity, showing that the magic of friendship has been passed down through generations, evolving but staying powerful throughout time. However, the Tree of Harmony seemed to be in jeopardy, as it was hinted that its power might need to be sacrificed to defeat the Pony of Shadows. At first, it felt like we were on the verge of losing one of the strongest means to defend Equestria. But in the end I was relieved that they managed to find another solution - one that was beneficial for everyone. Not only did they save Stygian, but they also banished the dark power without having to lose the Tree of Harmony or the Elements. This resolution felt very satisfying, as it highlighted the theme of redemption rather than just focusing on sacrifice. I also liked how the Tree of Harmony felt more than just a passive entity - it seemed to actively respond to the events involving both the Pillars and the Mane Six. It gave me the impression that the Tree has a deep connection to the magic of friendship and is aware of its vital role in maintaining harmony across Equestria. In my view, the fact that the Tree and the Elements remained intact was a reflection of the nature of the problem they were dealing with. This wasn't just about banishing an evil force - it was a friendship-related issue. And as we know, "friendship is magic", which is what made the magic of the Elements itself strong enough to endure and continue existing. I love how this theme remained central, reinforcing the idea that the magic of friendship is powerful enough to overcome even the darkest challenges. - Lessons and Morales - One of the most significant takeaways is that even the most experienced or knowledgeable individuals, like Star Swirl and the Pillars, can make mistakes when they let pride and ego cloud their judgment. The episode emphasizes that listening to others and understanding their struggles is crucial in maintaining relationships, as turning away from someone in need can cause harm to both parties. Twilight's and Starlight's role in helping Star Swirl realize the power of friendship demonstrates that wisdom can come from those who are younger or less experienced, reinforcing the idea that we should be open to learning from others, no matter their position in life. Their unwavering belief in the possibility of redemption for Stygian highlights the importance of giving others a second chance and shows that redemption is possible even for those who have made significant mistakes. The episode also explores how rejecting or isolating others can lead to negative consequences, not just for them but for ourselves as well, conveying the message that forgiveness and understanding are essential not only for helping others heal but also for our own emotional well-being. In conclusion, the finale ties together the themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the transformative power of friendship, leaving a lasting impression about the importance of open-mindedness, empathy, and the willingness to admit when we've been wrong. - Overall reception and my conclusive thoughts - This finale left me with a range of thoughts, both positive and mixed. There were some aspects that stirred up reactions within the fandom, but I have my own take on these points. One notable critique from the fandom was the revelation that the Pillars of Equestria were responsible for creating the Tree of Harmony. While some fans felt this explanation diminished the Tree's mystical allure, I don't entirely agree. Although it ties the Elements of Harmony to the Pillars' legacy, the Tree has shown itself to be much more than a mere creation of the Pillars. For example, the unexpected appearance of the Friendship Map - something the Pillars certainly didn't anticipate - demonstrates that the Tree still holds a deep and mysterious nature that might still go beyond what we've seen so far. Also Despite being one of Equestria's most powerful and knowledgeable unicorns, Starswirl's lack of familiarity with the Tree suggests that it still holds secrets, even from those who played a role in its creation. Another area of concern for some was how the Elements of Harmony itself were portrayed in this episode. In the past, the Elements were capable of purifying Nightmare Moon and defeating powerful foes like Discord. However, in this finale, the Elements alone weren't enough to purify Stygian, and they had to be combined with Starswirl's spell. For some viewers, this felt like a weakening of their power and left them feeling underutilized. I understand that disappointment, but I think there's more to it. The cutie map, which originates from the Tree, indicated that this was a friendship mission, not a simple magical solution. My theory is that the Tree intentionally allowed the Elements to be less overpowering in this situation, giving room for Twilight and the others to resolve the conflict through understanding and negotiation rather than force. On a more personal note, I had mixed feelings about the return of the Pillars. Starswirl the Bearded's long-awaited appearance was a major highlight, but the storyline around retrieving the artifacts and bringing the Pillars back felt rushed. These characters are deeply significant to the lore of the series, and I believe their return deserved more time to develop. Condensing such an important arc into just two episodes didn't allow for the depth it needed. I would have loved to see this story unfold over multiple episodes, giving us the opportunity to explore the personalities, backgrounds, and relationships of the Pillars and their artefacts in greater detail. Also one moment that felt like a missed opportunity was the reunion between Starswirl and Princess Celestia. Considering Starswirl was her mentor, their reunion after a thousand years should have been more emotionally impactful. It was a significant moment, yet it was rushed over. There was so much potential for emotional depth in that scene, but it wasn't fully realized. And the final issue I have is that they didn't fully showcase the Pony of Shadow's true power and the potential threat he could pose. That said, a slower, more measured approach would have allowed for greater character development and a more satisfying conclusion. The story was there, but it needed more time to breathe. Despite all that the Season 7 finale was undeniably a highlight for the series, offering an engaging and rewarding conclusion. One of the standout aspects for me was the remarkable worldbuilding that took place throughout the season. Elements like Starswirl, the Pony of Shadows, and the journal felt like they were not only expanding the show's mythology but also tying together narratives from previous seasons in a way that was both unexpected and deeply satisfying. For long-time fans, it was a payoff that demonstrated the thoughtful storytelling the series has always embraced. Also, Ed, you were absolutely right when you said everything felt like it was falling into place. The way the finale tied together so much of the show's existing lore was incredibly satisfying. Legends that once seemed like mere side stories, along with all the little hints scattered throughout the series, suddenly became integral to the main plot. This made Equestria feel richer and more interconnected than ever before. Watching all these mythical elements from past seasons come together was deeply rewarding, as if everything had truly come full circle. It's this careful attention to continuity that made the finale stand out, turning the entire experience into something even more fulfilling. Despite my initial feeling that it was rushed, I think it still managed to deliver an epic storyline. It raised the stakes in a meaningful way, bringing together everything I love about the series: complex characters and relationships, thrilling adventures, and fascinating lore. The return of the Pillars of Equestria, the looming threat of the Pony of Shadows, and the moral conflict surrounding Stygian's betrayal and banishment made the finale feel truly grand and significant. It was far more than a typical good-vs-evil narrative - it felt like the culmination of everything the series had been building toward. It also powerfully reminded us of the show's ability to tackle deep, meaningful themes while still being accessible to a broad audience. The balance of humor and emotion was also masterfully handled. Pinkie Pie's comedic moments, especially her recap of the villains, provided a nice contrast to the more serious elements, adding just the right amount of levity. Twilight's nerdy excitement over meeting Starswirl was another highlight, and it made her character even more relatable. These lighter moments were necessary to offset the heavier themes of redemption and misunderstanding that the episode explored. Also, continuity nods were sprinkled throughout the finale, I particularly appreciated the references to the Sirens from Equestria Girls and the detailed backstory of the Elements of Harmony. These touches made it clear that the show respects its own mythology and truly rewards dedicated fans. The subtle hint that Equestria Girls might be more than just a spin-off universe was also an exciting revelation for long-time viewers like myself. In the end, the finale reinforced one of the show's most important messages: that friendship isn't just a personal virtue, but a force that can transcend generations, creating harmony and even overcoming great darkness. This theme was central to the conclusion and felt like a fitting way to blend past mythology with the ongoing journeys of the main characters. Overall, the Season 7 finale marked a pivotal moment in the series by seamlessly blending Equestria's rich lore with the ongoing stories of friendship and adventure. It demonstrated just how deeply intertwined the show's mythology and the magic of friendship truly are, which left me me feeling both nostalgic and deeply satisfied as a fan. - Great reaction, Ed! I think I can speak for everyone who follows your content when I say that you consistently deliver the best reactions, which are full of insight. We love seeing that from you, and we always appreciate your thoughtful input. It's truly a pleasure to watch your reactions. This series has been incredible in the way it has changed so many lives, offering so much to those who watched it. If you were lucky, you even found friends along the way who shared the same excitement and passion. And then there's the wonderfully creative community, producing a wealth of additional content - from reaction videos and deep dives into the lore to music, headcanons, and fan fiction - some of which have sparked their own communities and new stories to explore. It's truly inspiring, and it's fantastic that you're a part of it now! I also love reminiscing about this series and sharing my own thoughts with you. Thanks again for being such an important part of this journey! Thank you - you deserve it! 💙 P.S.: Oh well me and my rambling... Again I am sorry for that!
DeViruZz.eXe
2024-10-13 11:19:14 +0000 UTCOf course, the other piece of evidence that she was not RD's was that you had already seen RD's at that point in the Campfire Tales episode
sjones17515
2024-09-30 18:07:17 +0000 UTCAhhh okay I see. I did have that hunch that there was a connection and story for everyone so it wouldn’t have spoiled anything since I had that theory. Then I said only twilight but I still wouldn’t have guessed how the finale went. Ah yes yes. Definitely makes sense. It was daring so centered so I had thought it was RDs but you’re right. Anyways this was a fun puzzle and build up to get to!
Ed
2024-09-30 18:05:54 +0000 UTCUltimately, the reason I decided against confirming to you earlier that Somnambula was Pinkie Pie's was because it hadn't quite been confirmed fully that there was a 1v1 connection at all yet and I didn't want to risk revealing anything about them being connected to the Elements or anything like that. But now that you've seen the finale... yes, Somnambula is Pinkie's. Even though her episode was largely Rainbow Dash-driven, being a Daring Do episode and all, it was Pinkie Pie's positivity that led her to urge Daring Do to make a leap of faith to save Rainbow Dash, just as Somnambula made the leap of faith to save her people in the legend
sjones17515
2024-09-30 12:33:01 +0000 UTCAnd there we have it another great season of mlp in the books! this journey has been so fun! I’ve definitely enjoyed these reactions so much! I can’t believe we almost on season 8 😢 time flys when you’re enjoying this show! we get the pillars back it’s crazy something I didn’t expect to happen when I first heard about them i thought they were all made up legends for the few episodes they were in, also idk if you remember but the pony of shadows was mentioned in beginning of season 4 the episode castle mania where they start the friendship journal, everypony wondered if that would come up again! and it did seasons later, also I love how starlights choice is the right one, magic of friendship is a powerful thing, also when twilight got her wings princess celestia mentioned that twilight had done something not even starswirl could do because he didn’t understand the magic of friendship like twilight did, so it makes sense why he wouldn’t wanna listen and just wanna banish stygian instead of wanting to listen to starlight, and the other pillars just went along with it, the lore in this finale is amazing, a lot of the fandom love it, such a great ending to a great season it may have got off to a rocky start but I definitely enjoyed this season!
Pinkie_applepie
2024-09-29 23:13:17 +0000 UTCoooooooh. Right right. Okay. I’m so dumb 😂😂😂. Yes that lead the everfree forest but the tree of harmony was defending against that. Sorry for my numbness 😂
Ed
2024-09-29 22:45:07 +0000 UTCDiscord planted the plunder seeds.
Cowboy_002
2024-09-29 22:20:46 +0000 UTC
