Up to this point, there have maybe been a few sensations and even pictures that Willow has been able to sense from other ponies, but tonight is special. Whether that's because of being burned out or as a portent of things to come, I don't know. In either case, circumstances being what they are, she's in for a rough night.
Rook spent his time waiting building a strong barrier for Rose's flower. There was plenty of debris around and he didn't have anything to do anyway.
Yes, Crabapple has the distinction of being one of the few ponies that Winter Willow can't read at all. She feels confused and uneasy when she's near him.
Luau is a mentor and older-sister figure to both Crabapple and Willow. Though she seemed very "Pinkie Like" before, that's just an expression of her vast energy. Her individual character will become more apparent in time.
As for Celestia's vision, it's a possible future that she saw should she fail tonight. Yes, Celestia is dead. Yes, those things are coming from the Maisma. Yes they have hands.
My little pony style and characters and certain art elements here are all Copyright Faust/Hasbro
It's so cool how Willow can do that mindreading thing with Rose. :3 And aww, it's cute how Rose just automatically fixes Willow's hair like that. Rook, you're such a gentlecolt. God, Celestia's vision is just horrifying. No wonder Willow's curled up in the fetal position like that. O~O