He had to be crazy at this point. First it was the strange stream of color and now it was…a pony? It was shaped like a pony at least. It had a mane and a tail but…it was somehow a pony and not a pony all at once. He couldn’t make heads or tails of it.

Okay first things first. Make out details. Spike narrowed his eyes to get a better look at the owner of the voice. It was definitely a stallion no doubt about it. And man is he tall! He’s at least the same height as Princess Luna maybe taller. Four limbs and one head. Not an alien from one of his comics at least.

Spike looked up into the stallion’s eyes. No horn, no wings, an earth-pony. Spike finally realized something about the stallion’s eyes. The part that should be white is pitch black. He has eyes at least, if you call glowing white lights eyes anyway.

He now gave his mane attention. It looked like wit had been styled by Rarity. White and either black or a very dark gray. The stallion’s coat was the purest white he’d ever seen, maybe every brighter than Rarity’s and Celestia’s. It glowed! Spike eyes trailed down to the stallion’s hooves, his tail matched his mane perfectly.

Spike eyes froze on the strange stallion’s hooves. He remembered the way Nightmare Moon’s mane looked and it reminded him of what he was seeing. From the edge of the stallion’s fur were pitch black hooves and coming out of them was a strange starry looking mist. It flowed slowly like the stream that was surrounding him. All four of his hooves shared these qualities as well.

Spike finally realized a few things. He was staring very rudely at a pony he didn’t know. He had noticed several times that the stallion was looking directly at him. Twilight was gone. And he wasn’t in pain at the moment.

Issue number one to deal with. Spike quickly stood up and bowed his head slightly. “S-sorry! I didn’t mean to stare at you!”

He heard a chuckle. “I-I know it’s rude to stare at a pony you don’t know! Twilight taught me not to do that, sorry!”

“No need to apologize. I know that seeing this one is quite strange.” The tall pony said slowly, his voice like a melody of calming wind. But it carried with it a kind of power that made Spike feel protected and weak all at the same time.

“Raise your head Spike.”

Spike’s head shot up and stared into the shining white eyes of the stallion. He was rather close now. Spike straightened himself out and blinked. “How do you know my name?”

Another chuckle.

“D-did I say something stupid?” Spike felt his face redden, he was a bit older now but he was still very prone to embarrassment.

“No young one, this one has simply heard those words uttered so many times. Yet this one still finds it rather humorous.” The increasingly strange pony stopped his light laughter and slowly laid down in front of Spike. “This one is sorry to have bothered you.”

“N-no its fine. Um…what I mean, who are you?” Spike could feel his nerves coming back. Seeing the stallion so calm put him at an ease he only found in sleep.

“Hmm…might this one ask you a question? Would it be easier that this one is a being that is the collective conscience of everything that is, has been, and will be? Or to say that this one is Magic personified? Though neither are the complete truth.”

“Personified?”

“This one is sorry, tis terminology from another place this one visited. Ponysonified, how’s that?”

“I think I get it now…um could you explain a little more?” Spike scratched at his scales. He was beginning the feel the pain again.

“Of course Spike.” The pain stopped dead. “Would you like to hear the whole story? Or just what this one is? The story can come later, it is very long.”

“Just what…you one are?” Spike nervously spat out.

“How does hear what I am sound?” Spike nodded. “Very well. As you have guessed I am no ordinary pony. Mostly because I am not a pony, I am not an alien, a monster or a demon summoned from the depths of Tartarus by Lord Kel’dah.” Spike blushed and bowed his head.

“Sorry…”

“It’s fine. I promise not to do it again, reading minds is very rude but I just couldn’t help it. You’re not very guarded against others. That is an admirable trait. I digress, I am a construct of Magic. I was made, born a magic spell but I evolved past that. As to how will wait for the story.”

“Long ago I was a thought turned real by a very powerful sorcerer.”

“Star Swirl?” Spike blurted out.

“No offence to my late friend. But he could never reach that point, no, the one who made me was much more powerful.”

Spike gasped at the thought of Twilight hearing this.

“She already has.” Spike stared in disbelief. “She still doesn’t believe me. I was born to be a living book of sorts. To house and safeguard all of the world’s spells, thoughts, ideas, memories, pain and loss. Within me are the moments from the very beginning of time. I have seen and recorded so much in my time that I do not think every book on this planet could hold it all.”

“But how did you see so much?”

“Simple I followed the stream.” He waved a hooved in the air and the colored streamed hugged his foreleg. “I am one with the stream. I am one with Magic. I am one will all. But I am my own being. I am alone and I am a solitary consciousness.”

Spike sat down and tried to wrap his head around what he was hearing. “I understand if it is too much. There is plenty of time to think this all over. So Spike do you have any questions?”

Spike looked into the eyes of the strange pony. Now on his face was a calm and untouchable smile, he seemed withdrawn but still very close. “Why are you here? Talking to me?”

“That is because you’ve finally opened yourself to me.”

“I was blocking you somehow? From what?”

“I take it you remember what happened on your first birthday in Ponyville, yes? Well what happened to you was normal for dragons at that age. They deal with their unnatural greed growth and once they are tired out they come back to a more child-like form, but unnaturally changed. Parts of their bodies appear that were not there before, spines grow jagged and their scales turn sharp. In the worst case some dragons have been known to grow jagged unnatural wings.”

Spike shuddered at the thought of losing himself. “But you were different.” Spike looked at the stallion and was met with a kind, warm and eternal smile. “I always knew you would be different. For you see I cannot see the future. I can lived it and return to this time, which I have done. However the result is always different no matter how many times I try, but there is always one constant, you would stop your unnatural growth.”

Spike thought for a moment. “Then why not go to one of the other Spikes?”

“Simple, this is my timeline. This is the time steam I was born in, and I’ve come to notice this is something of the main timeline as well. Though I know a doctor that would disagree.” He chuckle inwardly. “And I also know I am not my own constant, there are variations of myself as well, but I’m the only one that can travel back through time. But we’re getting off topic.”

“When you reverted to your normal state unchanged you set in motion your true path. However there was an unforeseen issue. You refused to grow.”

Spike blinked, “I mean yeah, but what does that…oh…you mean…”

“Yes Spike, it is not that your body will not grow. You refuse to let it grow. You have subconsciously blocked off your own natural growth by tapping into the massive reservoir of Magic that your body holds. All this time you have refused to grow in fear of hurting others, of losing your mind to your baser instinct. And while this fear is well placed, you let it control you. You have done well Spike, you fought off and diminished the greed that is planted deep into your draconic heart from birth. And you now understand something now you never realized before. Thankfully no one had to be seriously hurt.”

“Well why didn’t you just force your way through? Since you’re magic itself I mean.”

“That would have destroyed the point of you learning Spike. I was called to you when you controlled your greed. But then you locked yourself from me, if I had forced my way through the lesson you learned would have meant so much less. What you realized is that you needed to grow, staying pintsized may protect your friends from you. But there is little else you could do. While you have helped you’re friends many times before, you are unable to do so anymore. They face much stronger foes now more than ever because they are ready to move on. Celestia has seen it fit that they are all strong enough to face more dangerous tasks. But you…if you had refused to see where you stood and how things would be if you had stayed your growth. You would have been left behind Spike.”

Spike just stared at him in silence. “I know it is harsh but it was the truth.” A smiled built on his melancholy face, and Spike’s heart jumped. “You can begin to grow my small friend. You understand that you must grow to be strong enough to protect them. That your size and species does not dictate who you can and cannot protect. You have been enlightened Spike the dragon.”

Spike started to smile, but he needed a question answered. “If I hadn’t learned this lesson…and something terrible was happening right in front of me…”

“I would have done nothing, the lesson had to be learned.” Spike instantly became enraged.

“You would have sat by and done nothing! The stream I saw is warm and kind and it’s like you! I feel the same thing when I look at you when I look at that stream! So why would you willing watch somepony I care for d-,” Spike swallowed the word, “Get hurt…”

“Yes I would.” Spike angry built up like had never been before. “I cannot lie to you Spike. I would have willingly stood by and watched you despair over the demise of your friends and even Twilight Sparkle. If I stepped in it would go against every one of my own teachings and your lesson would mean nothing.”

“WHO CARES ABOUT THE LESSON!?” Fire spewed out of Spike’s mouth as he stood up and yelled fiercely at the glowing white pony. “WHY WOULD YOU SIT BY AND WATCH ME SUFFER!?”

“Because I have done so many times before.” Spike rage died as he looked into those eyes of this stallion. In his eyes…he saw a darkness he would never understand. “I have watch hundreds fall to their own short comings. Their inability to learn killed them, and most detest me for this. Others learn after it is too late and I begin their training, but…” A sad smile formed on his face. “You learned before it was too late Spike.”

Spike sat back down and blinked, “I…I’m sorry.”

“No need. I am quite used to it. Now any more questions? We have some time until you wake up.”

“Now that I think about it…where are we?” Spike took his first glance around and notice there seemed to be an endless void of black except for the multicolored stream and the light purple glow coming from beneath them.

“You are asleep Spike. You were very tired after taking care of Twilight Sparkle. You cared for her until you were absolutely sure she was okay. And she is Spike, only a few cut and bruises, nothing that won’t heal.”

“Okay…um…what does it mean when you say I’m ‘enlightened’?”

“Oh yes I should probably explain. Thank you Spike. How to go about this…oh! Think of your adoptive sister Twilight and how once she came to understand her own powers and the true power behind her friendships it led her to become the Princess of Friendship. It’s somewhat like that.”

Spike swallowed hard. “I’m not gonna…”

“Grow a horn and wings and have to wear a dress? No Spike you won’t become a princess, as a matter of fact becoming an alicorn just proves how powerful she is. But you Spike, you can become something so much greater. Have you heard of the Titles?”

“Aren’t they like really strong dragons from legend? Like Tharax The Deadly or Haze The Terrible?”

“It’s actually Tharran the Death-defying and Haven of Terra. Tharran always like getting into trouble and nearly dying as a cost but came out fine and Haven was the strongest terran dragon there ever was.” The stallion laughed to himself as he recalled something. “Tharran and Haven were the oddest couple you’ll ever see. But yes I mean them.”

“Sounds like history took a divergence…”

“Propaganda to sway dragons to becoming mindless beasts. Blast the current Lord Of, he is such a fool. But as I was saying, you too could become a Title if you so please.”

“R-really? Spike the Great…I like the sound of that…on second thought…” He heard the stallion laugh aloud this time. It was hearty and happy, it filled Spike with a brand new warmth.

“You have such a mind…no Spike it’ll be more like Spike of Ponyville or Spike the Guardian of Twilight with the way you are now.”

“The way I am now?”

“You have no skills Spike.” Spike visibly cringed. “You have fire and a set of abilities that you learned to take care of your sister. But that is all. You are very weak Spike. But we can change that if you so please.”

“Really? C-can I really get stronger?”

“That depends. Do you simply want strength? I can give you a proper way to become physically stronger. Do you want to be faster? To have a stronger fire or tougher scales? Or do you want to unleash the powerful Magic sleeping within you?”

“What do you mean?”

“I guess you don’t know much about dragons after all…dragons are born with the very base of Magic in their body. Raw uncontrolled power that they unleash as fire or their other breathes. Should I get into this now? You only have so much time left.”

“Uh…why me?”

“Because you are kind and generous. You are what dragons once were, and I believe that you can do so much in your long life. But not only that, it has been roughly five thousand years since a dragon has quelled their own greed for the sakes of others. Let’s not forget your upbringing. You were born from a unicorn and raised by the Princess of the Sun. You have been surrounded by love and happiness your whole life and because of that the stream favors you. Just as it did Twilight, Cadence, Celestia, Luna and at one point Discord.”

“Discord!?”

“He was quite the righteous young man when we first met. He was nothing like he was now, he was a man of honor and much, much more powerful. His dependence on chaos has weakened him so…it saddens me…”

“Huh…Discord? Who’d have guessed it?”

“Fluttershy has seen a glimpse of what he once was. But regardless, you are allowed one more question and then I will awaken you.”

“Okay…will you only talk to me in my sleep?”

The being of pure white and magic smiled knowingly and touched his hoof to Spike’s head. “Wake up Spike.”

“Spike? Wake up Spike!” A familiar voice called out to him and Spike opened his eyes quickly.

“Twi-ow!” The pain was back in full force. “Ow…are you okay?”

“Yes I’m fine Spike. Thank you so much for taking care of me.” Twilight and Spike were laying on her bed. Twilight was wrapped up in bandages and her wing laid out over Spike. She had grown a bit more since four years ago. She wasn’t as tall as Luna yet but she was getting there. “I took too many chances, I’m just thankful I’m the only one hurt.”

“Don’t say that Twilight!” Spike sat up and hugged her softly, mindful of her wounds. “I’d rather none of you get hurt at all…but I know I can’t ask that of you…so how’d it go?”

“Thank you Spike, well the mission was a success. We managed to drive the beast away, just wish I knew what it was. It smelled horrible, glad Rarity and Fluttershy stayed behind this time. That…thing was unnatural, anyway enough of that, you were stirring a bit in your sleep are you okay?”

“I’m-“

“He is fine Twilight.” Spike raise a brow. He could have sworn he just heard that voice.

“A-Ageless Mentor!? W-what are you doing here! D-did I do something wrong! Is it because I underestimated that monster? I’m so sorry it’ll never happen again!” Twilight folded her wings over her face.

Spike blinked and turned his head to see the white stallion standing at the edge of the bed. He wasn’t glowing anymore and his eyes were like a normal pony’s. Well his eyes were still pure white so it looked like he didn’t have any. He was still clearly an earth-pony and his hooves were still oozing out a galaxy each. His mane and tail were still the same and he was clearly still very white. The stallion smiled at Spike and brought a hoof to his own mouth and chuckled under his breathe.

“Oh Twilight Sparkle you and Star Swirl are my favorites for your reactions.”

“Ageless Mentor? Is that you name?” Spike stood up and hopped off the bed, he walked over to the stallion as he stopped laughing.

“No, Twilight gave me that name. You see I had no name when I was born so I give that pleasure to all that I teach, each has their choice at what they’ll call me.” Spike scratched his chin.

“Then I’ll call you Astral. You know, because of all the spacey thing going with your hooves.” He watch the white pony look at his hooves.

“Hmm, I like it, then to you young Spike, I am Astral.” Astral smiled happily at Spike and he realized something.

“Ow! Still hurting right…” Twilight stopped pouting at Astral’s laughter and jumped off the bed and landed next to Spike.

“That pain again? I thought the latest medicine would work this time…” She rubbed Spike shoulder as he held his sides in pain. “Oh! I’m so sorry Ageless Mentor! Spike has been feeling this tearing pain since his-,”

“Last birthday three months ago? Yes I know, that is why I’m here. Spike do you remember our talk? Well I can explain now, the other big questions are meant for our ears only. Now the reason you are in pain Spike isn’t a reaction to some strange weed that doesn’t exist, Twilight Sparkle.” He shot her a look and she looked away feigning innocence. “But a reaction to your body not being its correct size. Dragon’s bodies grow proportionate to the Magic in their bodies unnaturally. But natural growth has nothing do with Magic, in this case since you forced yourself to stop growing so your body is compacted in those scales. You’re basically trying to fit into a size of clothes two sizes too small, thus are being constricted.”

“Am I gonna die!?”

“You were never in danger.” Spike gave a heavy sigh of relief. “But you would have had to put up with this pain for another twenty years had you not opened yourself to me. Now you must understand, you stopped your body’s growth for four years, you won’t suddenly become taller overnight. However I will help you ease into a new form when your training begins.”

Twilight looked up, “Training!” She stepped in front of Spike, “With all due respect Ageless Mentor! I refuse to let Spike-,”

“With all due respect Twilight Sparkle, the decision is not yours to make. It belongs to Spike.” Astral trotted over to Twilight and smiled at her. “I understand your worry but Spike has not been a child for some time. While his body is small, his mind is great, thanks to you and those around him. He must choose his own path, or else all paths will close off to him.”

Twilight wordlessly glared at Astral. “I want to learn magic.” A small voice called behind her. Spike walked out from behind her and over to Astral. “I’ve been thinking about it…I grew up with a pony that’s a master at magic. So if I’m her assistant, shouldn’t I know lots of magic too? Also I know magic can do lots of amazing things! So can you do that?”

Astral patted Spike’s head with a hoof. “Yes I can Spike. But not now, your training will start in a matter of days, and I must warn you, we will be leaving this town.”

“What!?”

“Twilight!” Spike shouted and she flinched away from him. “Why do we have to leave Astral?”

“You will need space to train. Lots of it, and if we are close to any of your friends I am certain if they see you in any danger they will come to save you. This would make your training pointless.”

“B-but-,” Twilight tried to butt in but she looked into Astral’s pure white eyes. “C-can’t I at least…”

“You most of all must not know. You care for him like a little brother and that is commendable, but you have yet to realize what overprotecting someone can do. What did I tell you about Garnet Gaze?”

Twilight breathed hard and sighed. “Protecting those who do not want protection leads to solitude and the inability to act for oneself.”

“Spike feels useless Twilight. He wants to change. Will you not give him the chance to grow? Or will you stunt his growth even more?”

Twilight looked at Spike who had a confident look in his eyes. She could see the fire Astral planted in his heart. “Just promise me you’ll watch over him?”

“I refuse to give those I teach a challenge they are not ready for.” Astral smiled, “I was your teacher once as well remember?”

“Now that I think about it, why did you stop training her?” Spike turned his gaze to Twilight.

“Twilight is a very unique pony, she absorbed all of her lessons in a fashion I’ve only seen done a few times before. She learned everything I could teach her in a matter of months. Her training came to a stop around your third birthday here. The remainder of her lessons she will find on her own.” He smiled down at Spike. “You however are different, with the path you’ve chosen there will be much to learn. You’ll probably be my third longest going student. On par with Celestia and Luna.”

“R-really!?” Spike shook his head to see if he was imagining those words.

“I can feel it. But as I said, your training will not begin immediately. I need time to find you a place suitable for your training. And you have a lot of people to say goodbye to, your training will not be over in a matter of days. It could take years.”

Twilight bit into her lip and looked at Spike who didn’t seemed phased. “…I stopped myself from growing because I was scared…I’m not gonna waste time like that ever again!”

Astral smiled and wrapped a foreleg around Spike and pulled him in a small hug. “I knew you’d say that. You’ll be back before you know it.”

Spike smiled and as soon as Astral let him go he looked at Twilight. “Twilight…I need your help on a letter.”

“How long do you think it’ll take them to get here?” Spike asked as he swung his legs off the side of his bed. He, Astral and Twilight were now in his room waiting.

“When they read it, it’ll only take a manner of minutes. I can’t wait to see them, it’s been a little over a thousand years for both of them. I visited Celestia once in a while but we haven’t been able to talk for too long.”

“Hey were they your students or your college roommates?”

Astral chuckled. “It would seem like both the way I talk about them. It is not lost on me to befriend those who wish it. I like making friends, everyone I meet is always so different after all. Oh look I told you, here they come. Can you see it Spike?”

Astral pointed at a spot in the center of his room. Spike narrowed his eyes there and noticed the stream began to build up in a large bundle and just before the telling flash of light the stream expanded and dispersed. “Cool.”

Before Spike, Twilight and Astral were the two leaders of Equestria. The elegant alabaster Princess Celestia and the deep blue Princess Luna. Both looked just as regal and important as always but they seemed…small to Spike. He kept looking at Astral and got the feeling he’d normally get from the princesses. He figured that the feeling of being weak just happened to everypony.

Before Twilight could open her mouth to say hello both Luna and Celestia bowed to Astral in a single motion. “Hello to you our dearest teacher and greatest friend Eclipse.”

“We have missed you so Eclipse. It has been too long since we have seen you. Thank you for allowing us the grace of meeting you again.” Luna followed her sister.

Astral walked over to them and place a hoof on Celestia’s shoulder. “Rise so that I may see my pair of most adorable pupils.” Both Celestia and Luna stood up straight looked at Astral like a foal would look at their mother.

“Eclipse oh how I’ve missed you!” Celestia wrapped her neck around his in a deep nuzzle. “It has been far too long!”

Luna wrapped her forelegs around Celestia and Astral. “Yes we have miss you so much! I feared I would never see you again!”

“Girls calm down. I’ve told you before, I’m always near when you need me. You just couldn’t see me. And I have missed you both as well.” He nuzzled Celestia’s neck and planted a small peck on Luna’s forehead. “Now let me go so I can speak to you both.”

Luna and Celestia let go and stood in front of him. Spike finally wrapped his head around the scene and noticed something. Astral was taller than Luna but shorter than Celestia.

“When Twilight’s letter arrived I assumed she was merely asking about you.” Celestia said keeping her foal-like smile.

“'Eclipse misses Sunny and Mooncake! Come say hi!' We knew it was you! No one else would dare call us such sickeningly cutesy names. N-not that I don’t love mine!” Luna became rather fluster but a small peck on her forehead from Eclipse calm her down.

“You have both grown into such fine mares. While so different in actions…and mistakes.” He nuzzled Luna’s cheek before she could even think to feel bad. “You both had the potential to become what I knew you could. You’ve made me very proud Sunny.” He nuzzled Celestia’s cheek and gave her a peck on the forehead. She giggled and bounced on her hooves lightly make a small clang when her golden hoofguards hit the crystal floor. “You have gone beyond my expectations Mooncake.” He nuzzled Luna’s cheek and gave her a small peck on her forehead a third time. Luna repeated her sister’s actions with a flutter of her wings.

“I was way off. You guys are like a father and his daughters…” Spike said aloud and covered his mouth. Luna and Celestia shared a bright shade of red. Celestia cleared her throat as to break the embarrassing moment apart.

“S-so Eclipse what would you like to tell us?” Celestia tried to recover her regal stance. It might have worked if she wasn’t blushing so hard. “While we are very happy to see you again. This can’t just be a quick hello.”

“You are right Sunny.” Celestia blushed ever brighter and glared at Astral. “I have called you both here because of Spike. On his first birthday in Ponyville he went through his unnatural greed growth and overcame it. However because of the fear he placed on himself of his own growth, he has not grown naturally. But not too long ago Spike finally opened his mind to me and answered my call. In a matter of days I will go to a place I cannot tell any’pony’. Do I make myself clear?”

Luna and Celestia both stood tall with their embarrassment nearly gone. They spoke together as if rehearsed. “Yes Eclipse we hear and understand.”

“Thank you. Now I will need both of your help. Celestia I need you to keep all the ponies here in Ponyville. I trust Twilight and her friends but I want to be sure. If they hear Spike will be in any dangerous training they will likely come looking for him. Namely Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Applejack. Simply keep them from leaving that’s all I ask.”

Celestia smiled and bowed to Astral. “I will do just that.”

“And you Luna. I know you cannot help but wonder about what we’ll be discussing but my presence has been felt by now. I need you to keep watch over my plain of thought or I may harm their minds. Also I would like it if you could look into getting a few blank Magic books, I have much to teach Spike. He wants to learn Magic after all.”

Luna bowed with a smile. “As you wish.” She stood back up and looked at Spike. “Little dragon, I wish you luck on your training. You can be assured he would never force you to do something you are not ready for.”

“Thanks, by the way, what do you mean ‘my presence has been felt’?” Astral walked back over to Spike.

“Well there are those who know of me from those I’ve taught in the past. Most think of me a sort of spirit of knowledge. But to many others I hold within me an oasis of knowledge they wish to have for themselves. For I am not always so happily able to teach my students. I told you I am know by many names, one of them will stay attached to time until this universe comes to its end.”

“That’s right Herald of the End. It matches you so much it’s sickening.” A voice echoed throughout the room. “And the worst of it is. You don’t even deny it.”

“Herald of the End?” Spike looked at Astral and he smiled.

“Another time another place Spike.”

A pair of eyes appeared on Spike’s bed causing Spike and Twilight to jump. They flew up in the air and Discord’s chaotic body formed from mist. “Good to see you old buddy. Not really though.”

“Discord!” Twilight scolded but Astral put a hoof out in front of her. “A-Ageless Mentor?”

“It is fine. Discord dislikes anything that has to do with me because he thinks I refused to help him. However we both know what happened.” He put down his hoof and looked at Discord. “You were in such a rush you destroyed your own path.”

“Oh hush up already. You’re lucky I can’t affect you with my magic or I’d have turned you into a potted plant by now.” Discord made a pot appear with a crudely drawn on face that resembled Astral’s. “Too bad so sad.” He crushed it in his lion paw.

“You were once one who upheld loyalty and order. But now look at you Discord. A proud scholar and magic master, now a simple jokester.”

“Simple? SIMPLE!?” Discord turned into a black mist and surrounded Astral. “How dare you call me SIMPLE!?” Astral’s expression did not change, instead he smiled. “What’s. So. Funny.”

“You wouldn’t have been bothered before and just go along doing as you please. To see you so enraged at your own past makes me…”

“Happy? Delighted at my pain?” Discord turn back to normal and floated in the air above an irate Luna.

“Proud.”

“C-come again?” Discord looked at Astral. “What was tha-?”

“I’m proud of you Discord. You were always so eager to make friends. But after what happened you became so distant. But to see you here in Ponyville laughing it up and even having somepony to care for…I could not be more proud of you.”

“…I…I hate how you do that…make us angry and then put on a big happy smile…” Discord sighed and floated listlessly as Astral laughed to himself.

Spike was at a loss for words. In a matter of minutes, the princesses bowed and clung to Astral. Then he ordered them as if he were a king. Then Discord shows up and calls him something evil. Astral smiles and he’s suddenly more quiet than usual. “You’re amazing.”

“I’m just a teacher.”

“We got off on the wrong hoof…in which I nearly stuffed her in a portal to another dimension…” Discord recalled meeting one of his other friends from out of town.

“You must have really been jealous, you only did that when I spent time with someone other than you for a few days, a few minutes at a party? Wow.” Astral chuckled as Discord tried to stick up for himself.

Spike, Twilight, Discord and Astral had said good-bye to Celestia and Luna and were heading to Fluttershy’s home. “You would love Flutter’s tea! You always had a thing for tea right? Wait you have a thing for everything, even the bizarre.”

“That is because I can eat anything Discord. But I shall appropriately evaluate her tea.” Astral smiled at a few ponies that passed by and they smiled and waved like he was an old friend come back into town. “I’ve always like this town. So small but so full of life.”

“By the way now that I think of this. Where’s Pinkie Pie?” Twilight called out. “She’s normally the first to come running when there’s a new pony in town. But I guess you may not count Ageless Mentor. Since you’re technically everywhere at all times.”

“That’s not true Twilight I am a simple pony at the moment.”

“Other that the hooves thing.”

“Yes that too. Thank you Discord. Oh look its Rainbow Dash.” Astral looked up as Rainbow Dash flew by. He smiled and opened his mouth. “Ms. Dash, if I could spare a moment of your time?”

Rainbow suddenly landed in front of them. “Sure!” Rainbow Dash had gotten taller over time, she was still the shortest however. Her wings were stronger than ever and even had a bit of rainbow coloring on them. A side effect from being an Element of Harmony was that all of them were getting stronger in different ways. “Whatcha…who are you again? Why does it feel like I know you?”

“I’m new in town and I’ll be leaving in two days. I’d like you to let Ms. Pie know so she doesn’t feel saddened by missing out on giving somepony new a ‘Welcome to Ponyville’ party.”

“Oh okay. Sure I’ll fly over in a jiff, nice seeing you…again? That sounds so strange.” She flew off in mid thought.

“What just…”

“You see Spacey here is everywhere at all times. That weird feeling you get that you can trust him comes from him being there next to you in essence. It’s like he’s everyone’s brother or something.” Discord rattled on floating above them.

“Oh. I think I get it now. So does that mean Fluttershy will…?”

“Most likely. She is the second most in tune to the stream here in Ponyville, the first being Twilight. Now come on I’d very much like to meet Discord’s first friend.”

“Why you know everything about her already.”

“Oh contraire Discord. I know her essence, her likes and dislikes as known but may change. I’ve told you I cannot see the future.” Astral and Discord went back and forth as Spike and Twilight started up their own…awkward conversation.

“Are you sure it’s only been a week? You’ve only been seeing the stream since then?”

“Yes Twilight. It hasn’t been that long at all.”

“And you’re sure you’re ready for this? Maybe you should wait a week or something. You never know what could-,”

“Twilight stop trying to keep me home! I’m going to go get the training I need to grow up. I’m going to learn how to use magic and I’ll finally be able to do more than sort books and send stuff to Celestia.”

“Spike you already do so much more!”

“But not enough! You all risk your lives on those missions! I’m stuck here at home hoping you all come home safe. But today proved that I can’t let myself fall behind any more than I already have. I made myself this way because I was scared. I was frightened that if I let my greed control me again I’d only end up hurting you all… But all that did was make me weaker. And after I saw you hurt…I decided I needed to change.”

“Spike…you’re not…”

“It’s kind of like that. I’m doing this for you guys but I’m doing this for me too. I want to grow up and see what I can do. I want to learn how to use magic. Even if I’m not sure how I’ll do it. Do you think I’ll get a wand? Or maybe a staff?” Spike rubbed his chin thoughtfully and Twilight laughed.

“I’m sorry Spike. It’s our fault you feel this way.” She leaned down and nuzzled his cheek. “I’m sure you’ll do fine.”

“Thanks Twilight. Oh hey we’re at Fluttershy’s.” Spike looked up and saw Fluttershy’s cottage.

“Discord if you would.” Astral smiled up at him.

“Be right back.” He snapped his finger and vanished. A moment later the door to Fluttershy’s home opened and a yellow and pink pony walked out.

“Hello please come in. If that’s fine this you that is…” Fluttershy was taller than Twilight by a bit and her wings had taken on a pink tint. The side effect for Fluttershy was her ability to speak to animals grew to actual understanding instead of a vague idea.

“Thank you Fluttershy for having us.” Astral walked over and smiled at her.

“Oh no it’s nothing really. Please, come in. Oh…I’m sorry for being so…forward. Um I do know you? If you don’t mind me asking?”

“Something like that.”

Spike and Twilight explained the details to Fluttershy and Discord since he only knew Astral had shown up again.

“Oh my! Spike are you going to be okay? I so sorry we made you feel so…isolated…” Fluttershy hid behind her mane but tried to keep looking Spike in the eyes.

“It’s fine really. And yeah I want this. I have to do this, not just for all of you but for myself.”

“Besides.” Astral spoke up while drinking his tea…that seemed to be floating in midair. “I would never knowingly put him in danger unless I knew he could handle it. Just ask Discord, I trained him for nearly two thousand years. He knows my methods best.”

Fluttershy looked at Discord. “Yeah he’s right. He did train me for a long time, he was harsh but never unfair. Always was rested and ready for whatever he threw my way.”

“Really? Oh! I would love to hear how Discord was in his younger days! He never talks about himself so…I mean...if it’s alright.”

Discord gave Astral a pleading glance, one Astral had read before he even looked at him. “He was much different as a youth. He was much more serious and talking about Order like it was a cult. He loved to keep things in a straight line. He did enjoy a bit of fun like everyone, I mean everypony else. But when he tapped into Chaos, that’s when he became even stronger and my fourth most powerful student. He was at least twenty times more powerful than he is now.”

Twilight took a double take. “H-how could he be that powerful?”

“He had order and chaos. You see, long ago Chaos and Order were two sets of powerful armor. He smelted them down into one set of armor and wore them proudly. He became the line between order and chaos itself, true harmony. Unfortunately the armor was destroyed in battle. We all thought the armor gave him his power, but it was his inner harmony that made him strong.” Astral looked at Discord. “He fell to chaos however and you all know the rest.”

Discord gave him a nod and sighed. Fluttershy and Spike took the hint, Twilight was a little dim. “Well how did that happen?”

Astral gave Twilight what could on be called a scolding glance and she piped down. “That is a topic I wish to discuss. Not in front of any of you. You are all far too young. Maybe in another two hundred years.”

Fluttershy squeaked when Discord hugged her quietly and she rested her head against his. “It’s okay I don’t have to hear it at all unless Discord wants me to.”

“Thank you Fluttershy.” Discord smiled and rested against her.

“Spike?” Spike looked up from his emerald snack. “Would like to go see Rarity next? She will mostly like be the most difficult to deal with.”

“You got that right. I’m still her ‘little’ Spikey-Wikey. I wonder if she’ll even let us tell her why.”

"I doubt it my friend.”

“Absolutely not! I refuse! This is preposterous! Look at this little darling, he’s so small. He wouldn’t hurt a fly and you want him to go training alone off in some dark place in Celestia-knows-where and you expect me to be fine with it!? You must be-”

“RARITY!” Spike yelled and pulled himself out of her forelegs. “I’m going and there’s nothing you can do to stop me! I have to do this!”

“We will see about that.” Rarity stood up tall. She and Twilight were now the second tallest of their friends. And like Twilight her magic had gotten stronger, her horn even got a bit longer. “I will use every ounce of magic I hold to keep my little Spikey-”

“This is getting us nowhere.” Astral sighed and waved a hoof around Rarity’s face.

“W-what? How rude I…I can’t use my magic…what did you do to me!?”

“I’m truly very sorry Rarity but you must understand. I had little choice with how you were acting, I remember you saying a lady does not act out and keeps her emotions in check a much younger filly.” Rarity looked at the floor quietly and Astral sighed. “You’re not harmed, I simply shorted the stream you may tap into to that of an earth-pony. No Magic to the horn at all. Now please listen to Spike’s reasons. This is important to him.”

Rarity looked at Spike and nodded. “Please Spike…”

“Thank you Rarity. You know about that birthday because you were the one who saved me. It’s because of you I overcame my greed. But after that I was terrified of myself. Seeing all the damage and the fear in everypony’s eyes left me cold inside. I locked away my growth so that I would never turn into a monster again. But I was only cutting off my own natural growth. But a while ago I realized being small like I am isn’t good for anypony. I need to be stronger, not just physically. I want to help you girls out more. I want to fight by your side and stand with you in the face of whatever might threaten our lives. I want to protect you and stand by you all. That is why no matter what, I must do this. I have to.”

Tears built in Rarity’s eyes as she hugged Spike softly. “Oh Spike…I know…I’m just so frightened for you…I don’t want you to be hurt. But I know you can’t promise that…so…just promise to come back in one piece.”

Spike hugged her back and nodded. “I will.”

Astral tapped Rarity’s horn and she looked up at him. “He’ll come back in a taller piece if anything. When you see him again, he will look like he should and have a Magic skill worthy of his loyalty to his friends. I am sorry for what I did to you Miss Rarity.” Astral smiled at Rarity and she stood up straight and looked into his eyes.

“Yes…w-well, I know that you are this so-called being of magic and such, but if Spike is not returned to us I will personally come after you. Magic or no.” Rarity gave him a strong glare that began to morph into a fidgeting blush.

“I swear upon the name he has given me.” Astral nodded.

“You have to teach me how to do that.” Spike whispered to Astral.

“I takes a few million years to master. Good luck.” Astral chuckled and Spike pouted.

Rarity cleared her throat. “Spike you might want to tell Applejack next. You two are awfully close and she might be as worried as I’ll be.”

“Good idea. Thanks Rarity. Oh and if you can stop by Sugarcube Corner and tell Pinkie to get Rainbow to stop by when she can so we can talk too.”

“I will do just that. Oh have you spoken with your friends?” Rarity pondered before she began walking out of her boutique.

“Yeah right before Twilight went home. See ya.” Spike and Astral headed for Sweet Apple Acres as Rarity headed to Sugarcube Corner.

“Well shoot Spike, if yer so worried about what ah think then yer fine. I know you’ll be okay, yer one tough critter.” Applejack rubbed Spike’s head with a hoof. Applejack was one for one in height with Fluttershy. She was much stronger now and had twice as much stamina than before. “’ere I was thinkin’ it was somethin’ super dangerous. But this stallion ‘ere seems to know what he’s doin’.”

“I do Applejack and I promise to take care of him.”

“Specter is that you!?” Aster turned to see Granny Smith.

“Hello there Smith. It’s been ages.”

“Well call me Dandy and give me an apple. Ah nevah thought I’d ever see ya again.”

“You’re still as spry as the day I met you.”

“This is getting weird…” Spike and Applejack said in unison.

“Eeyup.”

“Okay now it’s just Rainbow and Pinkie Pie. Shouldn’t be too hard.” Spike counted off on their way to Sugarcube Corner.

“I can only assume Pinkie is trying to remember which pony she forgot to plan a party for.” Astral opened the doors to the sweet shop and Ms. Cake was at the front. “Hello Ms. Cake.”

“Oh hello there…I’m sorry I could have sworn I know you.”

“That happens quite often. So would you know where Pinkie is?”

“Oh she’s up in her room looking through her planner.”

“May I go up?”

“Sure thing.”

Astral nodded to her and walked up to Pinkie’s room with Spike right behind him. “I’m never going to stop being amazed by that.”

Astral chuckled and knocked on the door. “Pinkie?”

The door opened and Pinkie looked right into Astral’s eyes. Pinkie was taller now too, shorter than Twilight and Rarity but taller than Rainbow Dash. She was twice as fast as before but still as active. All he did was smile. “Oh it’s just you. Come in!” Astral and Spike stepped in her destroyed room. Paper and photos were everywhere. “Sorry I didn’t come down and…actually…who are…?” She suddenly jumped up in the air and grabbed Astral’s face lightly. “You’re the new pony!”

“That’s right Pinkie. I knew you’d be sad if you didn’t throw me a party so I came to you instead. It won’t be a surprise and I’m sorry for that. But I so wanted to attend one of your parties myself before I leave with Spike.”

“You’re leaving with Spike!? Wwwwhhhhhyyyyy?” Pinkie made their snouts touch and Astral just laughed.

Spike explained while Astral translated into a simpler term.

“Ooooooh. So Spike’s gonna go become a super magic dragon? Cool. Well I better throw you guys a party now! A ‘Good Luck Spike Come Back Soon’ party and a ‘Welcome and Goodbye Essences Of All Things Alive Pony’ party!” Pinkie ran out of her room and Spike looked at Astral, he shrugged and laughed.

“Hey you!” A tough voice called out to Astral and Spike as they made their way back to Twilight’s castle after waiting for Rainbow Dash. Rainbow landed in front of Astral and grabbed him by his neck fur. “What’s this I hear about you snatching up our dragon? You think I’m just gonna let you take my Spike away without a fight? You got another thing coming pal!”

Spike tried to pull Rainbow off when a familiar voice called out. “Dash wait!” Scootaloo flew over and landed next to her. Her wings were finally strong enough to carry her around and she was making quite a name for herself. “I messed up bad! Sweetie heard from Applebloom that Spike’s not getting kidnapped or something! He’s just going to leave for training or something!”

Rainbow snapped a glare at Astral and all he did was look at her. “She tellin’ the truth?”

“I assure you. I will return Spike without fail once his basic training is done. Don’t worry you’ll have ‘your’ Spike back soon.” Rainbow blushed and looked at Spike who just rubbed the back of his head.

“Y-you better! He’s important to all of us okay! …I gotta go.” Rainbow let go of him and took off as fast as she could. Scootaloo said goodbye to Spike and flew after her.

“Well that’s everypony I guess.” Spike scratched his nose trying to wipe off his redness. “Never heard her say that before…”

“Do you want to sleep? We can talk more in your dreams.”

“Now that I think about it, why only in my dreams?”

“Because even here in Ponyville where you are safe it is important that our conversations stay between us. Your questions are yours and yours alone.”

“I see…well then yeah. I’m pretty tired.”

“Then lets return quickly.” Astral smiled and trotted towards the castle once again.

“This place makes me feel weird. At least I’m not in pain at all.” Spike and Astral were sitting under the same purple light as before in Spike’s dreamscape.

“I am doing what I can to stop the pain from bothering you during the day but you’ll have to bear with it for a short time when we begin your body tempering.” Astral was lying down next to Spike with his forelegs crossed in front of him. “So shall we being the questions? There’s something I must do before morning.”

“Oh sure…body tempering?” Spike looked over at Astral.

“Ah, well you see, since your body has been forced into its current state I need to help you force it back. Your scales are paining you because they are too small for you, so first we must allow your scales to shed and expand. To make your body how it should be will not be a painless endeavor, it will be quite painful.”

Spike swallowed hard and nodded. “I’ll be fine…I hope.”

“Anything else?”

“You were talking about the magic a dragon has stored in their bodies or something before.”

“Ah yes. Well first the basics.” A small red ball of light appeared in front of them. It was no larger than Spike’s fist. “Think of this as the Magic held inside a dragon egg. When a dragon is born the Magic begins to expand, and as a dragon ages their Magic builds. Ever year their Magic grows about a fourth of its original size. So in a matter of four years a dragon will have twice the Magic it did the year before. This much is true for unicorns as well but at a slower rate.” A purple ball that was at least a third larger than the first appeared. “Here is your Magic as an egg. Now add on the power from Twilight.” The ball of purple light expanded twice in size and Spike mouth dropped open.

“That’s how much magic I had in me as a hatchling?” Astral nodded.

“Now lets add on your current age.” The ball bulged to twice its size, then again, and again and again and grew just a big more. “This is a rough guess of how much Magic you have with your natural aging. Now lets add all the Magic you’ve absorbed in your time here in Ponyville. From that book to all those gems and simply being around Twilight.” The ball of light exploded to three times its size and towered over them. “This is your Magic Spike.”

Spike was at a total loss for words. He looked at the towering ball of light and looked down at his own claws. “That’s inside me?”

“Yes. However you cannot yet tap into this Magic, you have been able to use a small bit of it with your fire. But to use it to its full extent the way you want to, you must learn how to cast spells. But that will wait until your training. Now unless you have any other questions I would like to do something.”

Spike looked at Astral and nodded. Astral leaned his head over and tapped his forehead to Spike’s. A sharp pain shot through his mind and made him a bit dizzy. “W-what was that?”

“That was the knowledge you will learn Spike. I have planted the fundamental lessons in your mind. You will not make use of all of them but at one point each lesson will be unlocked to you. You may act on them or ignore them. I leave that choice to you.”

“How many did you put in my head?”

“Do you really want to know?”

“Not really.”

“Then I’ll say goodnight for now Spike. I will be there when you awake in the morning. Have a good rest and try not to think to hard.” Astral stood up and began walking into the black abyss.

“Hold on! I want to know how I’ll be able to use magic!” Spike tried to stand but he suddenly felt very sleepy.

“You’ll understand when we begin Spike. Just rest for now.” Astral’s voice faded away as he walked into the black and began to fade. “I will see you in the morning.”

The next day was filled with noise. From the moment Spike woke up everypony in Ponyville came up to him and wished him luck on his travels. Apparently Twilight and her friends came up with a small fib that Spike was leaving on a sort of dragon pilgrimage to solve his growth problem.

Everypony told him how much they’d miss him and told him to be careful. Astral let out a few chuckles when some of the older mares squeaked out how much they’d miss their little purple friend. A few other ponies Spike knew made a quick trip to Ponyville to say goodbye, Twilight’s parents, a few Canterlot guards and some friends he made in Manehattan.

One of the guards had three blank magic books and letter from Celestia and Luna that read.

Take care of yourselves and make sure that once you’re done come down to Canterlot. The both of us wish to see the new Spike for our selves as well. We have also let Cadence know and she misses you as well Eclipse.

Best wishes.

Princess ‘Sunny’ Celestia and Princess ‘Mooncake’ Luna

Astral and Spike gathered up some apples and gems for the journey to their training ground. Astral had found one that was far off from Ponyville and would have enough fruits and gems to keep Spike settled for a few years if need be.

Later in the afternoon Pinkie threw a huge Ponyville wide party for Spike and Astral. Astral seemed to know lots of the older ponies and even a few guards but everypony else all seemed to know him somehow. His strange aura was the cause of that Spike realized.

The party was going well into the day when Astral pulled Spike and the Elements away from the party. “I want to thank you all for hearing out Spike and giving him your blessings on this journey. I swear upon the names Twilight and Spike have given me I will return Spike without fail.”

Rainbow glared at him cautiously. “You better bring him back better than ever! If I see him missing something I’m gonna pummel you into the ground!” She growled and received a blushing glance from Spike.

“I agree with Rainbow. I will take your word for now, but if Spikey is severely harmed I will hold my promise.” Rarity stomped on the ground and gave Astral a hard stare, which once again turned into a fidgeting blush. “I must sound so barbaric…”

“No you are in your rights to be wary of me. While I truly mean no harm I understand your worry for Spike. But as I’m sure you’ve all seen, he is more than capable of taking care of himself.”

Spike smiled at Astral and looked up at Twilight as she walked over and hugged him. “Just promise to be okay…”

“I promise big sis.” Spike smiled and hugged her back.

“Group hug!” Pinkie shouted and hugged Spike with Twilight. All the other girls joined in and Astral smiled happily. “You too mister magic pony!” Astral blinked when Pinkie and Twilight smiled at him. He shrugged and joined the group hug, almost enveloping all of them.

“I’m always pleasantly surprised by you Pinkie.”

“Have your books?”

“Yup.”

“Just in case gems?”

“Yes sir.”

“Both bundles of apples?”

“Uh-huh.”

“Back up blankey?”

“Ye…not funny.”

Astral chuckled and laid down next to Spike on his bed, Spike’s bed was upgraded from four years ago just in case he grew overnight. “I’m sorry I couldn’t help myself. You’re ready Spike, I know you are.”

“Thanks to everypony in town, and you too. I never would’ve thought I’d be able to use magic until I met you.”

“I am only a small part of what will teach you Spike. But I will do my best to guide you, you have my word.”

“I know…hey Astral?”

Astral looked at Spike and smiled knowingly. “Of course Spike.”

Twilight knocked on Spike’s door softly hoping he was still awake. “Spike? Are you awake? I wanted to talk to you about any possible dangerous you might find…Spike?” She used her magic to open to door and her eyes widened as she searched the room. Spike’s bed was made and his room was spotless. A lone piece of paper was left on his bed. Twilight sped over to it and lifted it up with her magic.

Dear Twilight,

I know I’m a jerk for leaving without a word but goodbyes hurt. They really do. I think I finally understand how you all feel when you leave for your missions. Not sure what you’ll find and not completely sure when you’ll make it back home.

I have been so lucky up till now Twi. I’ve had you all there to protect me and keep me from feeling alone. But now I need to learn to do that for myself. Astral says I’ll be fine as long as I study and following his training. Do you hear that? I have to study! Ugh!

Anyway I know you’ll miss me and I want you to know I’ll miss you too. I can’t send you letters because Astral says that’ll endanger me. So I left you a few of your favorite daisy sandwiches in the kitchen to remember me by. Make sure you share them!

With all the love a little dragon can give.

Spike.

P.S. I love you Twilight.

P.S.S. Tell Rainbow and Rarity to stay put.

Twilight held the letter close to her chest as tears fell down he cheeks. “Spike…I love you too. Good luck little brother, I know you can do it.”

On the far outskirts of Ponyville Spike looks bad in the direction of the shrinking town. “See you all soon. I promise.” He turned around and chased after Astral with a large bag on his back. “Lets go!”

Author's Note

DEAR GOD THIS CHAPTER IS LONG!!!

I tired myself out from writing this one, I don't know if all the chapters will be anywhere near this long again, but I'll try.

Hope you like it, cause it's a lot to read.