Page 645 - The Dream Job, Part 6

Several people have vaguely pointed out that the Nightmare Moon issue of the FIENDship is Magic run has a thing or two to say about her time on the moon and a possible origin of the nightmare forces. It’s not an explicitly direct tie-in, but it does leave just enough room to mentally draw a connection.

People have also discussed treating it as multiple canons, or using the multiple universes theory. Personally, and this is just me weighing in with my own opinion… I hate the multiple universes theory. I like assuming that, in any given fiction, the one we have is the one we got. My primary trade is in crossovers, which means I love to figure out how different weird things fit together. Used as a writing device within one piece of fiction, I feel like establishing infinite alternate universes diminishes that fun a lot.

The Reflections arc had some neat things in it, though.

Shadowfright: That’s “Shadowfright” to you, traitor! I never lost my ambition! Regardless, you’re right on time, little ponies. We just finished bringing our newest general up to speed. Ready to fulfill the promise of a new empire!
SFX: (FWOOOSH)
(beat)
Shadowfright: Looking for your dressmaking friend? I’m afraid she’s decided to change careers. Say hello to our new glorious dark queen – NIGHTMARE RARITY!
Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash: … WHAT?!