Shattered Memoriesby Leoheartxx2ChaptersChapter 1- The Grim FutureChapter 2- Once a Sweet AppleChapter3- The Long Road HomeChapter 4- Pinkie's Promise Part 1Pinkie's Promise Part 2Chapter 1- The Grim Future" Common Spike!!! I'm eager to try this new spell I just found when I was in Cantelot. " Twilight was flipping through her books in her library. A large brown bulky book lay open as she uses her magic to flip each page. " What's so special about this spell? " Spike ask as he clean the piles of books that were laying on the floor. Typical Twilight. Twilight was in Cantelot last week. During her stay she browse the National Library and came across a particular book of spell. The title wasn't very clear, probably because the book was old and covered with dust. But as she read it through, the book describe a spell that was suppose to allow the caster to see into the future. The spell require several material as describe and right before she went back to Ponyville she obtained them all at Cantelot. " You know Twilight...the material that this spell require...really got me worrying. Scales, metals and gems...." Spike express his worry as he unloads all the materials from a large sack. A large piece of Obsidian drop from the sack, making a odd but unworldy sound as it fell onto the floor. " Carefull Spike....I want to make this work...so stop messing around...." " Yes...Twilight...." Spike lets out a sigh. Spike immediatly prepare what was needed. Based on the book, all the material are to be arrange in a specific manner. Spike lay the gem and different types on metal on the floor in an orderly fashion based on the instruction on the book. The large Obsidian was place in the middle, surrounded by the other materials in a group of circles. Spike look at the book once more to check if everything is in place. " All done Twilight.....but are you sure about this? I heard of magic doing thing of sorts but time itself?...." " Based here it grants the caster a glimps of the future...like a vision....and I'm eager to try if it's possible...." " Glimps of the future ha?? I wonder what will be of me and Rarity in the future?? " Spike blush as he lets his imagintion runs wild in his head. " ohhhhh Spike...You cheeky dragon....I wouln't be sure myself....the spell didin't say which part of the future....I only guess in a period of 30 or 40 years maybe?? Well, no matter. Let us begin!! " Twilight's horn is envelop in a purple aura, which then levitate the book as she chants the incantation. Spike stood behind her as she perform the spell. The air in the library thicken as Twilight's magic fills the room. The materials on the floor levitates and now rotates around in circles. Static starts to form in thin air and moments later the large Obisidian that was in the center burst forth a bright beam, creating a very mirror-like matrix in the middle of the room. Spike's jaw drop. He never knew how capable Twilight's magic were. After a series of flash and minor explosion, everything came to a stop. " Wow Twilight....I never knew you were this good....I mean this spell isn't easy you know..." Spike picks up Twilight back on her feet. The spell must have really take a lot of concentration and efford to pull it off. " Thanks Spike...now what to do with this...." Twilight points at an unknown object in the middle of the library. A large sphere, floats in the middle of the room, static and sparks flies from its surface at random direction. " So how does it work...." Spike tries to poke it but the static just zap his finger, a slight shock discourage Spike from poking it again. "Hmmm....let me try...." Twilight stood infront of the sphere and concentrate. An image or sort starts to form in the sphere in a swirly movement. After a moment, the atmosphere starts to feel heavy, as if a magic field of some power fills the room. Static starts to dart out from the sphere in a frenzy manner.A mixture of aura of diffrerent colour burst out in a large gust from the sphere. Twilight was too amased by the manner of magic that she didin't realise the aura was enveloping her. Spike tries to pull her away but was knock back, as if block by an invisible field of magic. Spike tried to scream at her but it is as if she couldn't hear a thing. The whole room suddendly started to shack violently. Twilight, finnaly realise the situation at hand, panic and tries to break herself out of the ever closing aura around her. " SPIKE!!! GET ME OUT OF HERE!!! " Twilight scream desperatly as the aura close in on her. Spike reach out to a nearby wooden chair and try to break her out, but to no avail as the chair simply bounce back. The aura finnaly close in around Twilight, and in an instance a bright flash appears, blinding Spike. After the blinding light fade away, all was left was a burn out Obsidian stone in the center of the library. Twilight was nowhere to be found. " Twilight?! TWILIGHT!!!!!! " * * * * * * * * * * * ********************************************************************************************************* " oouchh...my head..." Twilight finnaly awoken. Her head still hurts from before, all she could remember was being envelop by an aura then it all black out. Still confuse, she tries to get a visual of her surrounding. Piles and piles of books was the first thing she saw, but she knew where she is. The library. But something doesn't feels right. The whole place is a mess. Books and papers scatter across the floor, like a typhoon just hit this place. The air smells dead and musty, like this place hasn't been touched for ages. Then, the tought of Spike came to her. Where is that little dragon? As she futher investigate the whole place for any sign of Spike, she ponder what happen. Spike usually keeps the place clean and spotless. After a while she gave up. " Maybe I might have more hope looking for him outside..." As she open the door, all she could think, was what had happen. Before her eyes, Ponyville lies in ruins. Instead of the once bright town full of joyfull pony, now a desolated town shroud in darkness and destruction. The stench of Death is thick and strong. Twilight's feet became soft, as her eyes watches on. What happen? How in Celestia's name did all of this happen? Uncertain and devasated, all she could now is find Spike. Twilight journey out into the town. No pony was insight. All the building were either boarded up or destroyed. TownHall was in ruins. The whole structure had collapsed on itself. Even Sugarcube Corner was in ruins. It's wall collapsed and destroyed. " SPIKE!!! " She yell out loudly, hoping she could at the very least find Spike. She continue to call out as she journey into the desolate town. Even the sky was dark and miserable. The moon was showing itself, but it was red like the colour of blood. After an hour of relentless searching, Twilight finnaly gave up. Seeing that it was pointless to go on, she immediatly return to the only place she could think as shelter. The library. A few minutes later she arrives at the entance of the library. But as she tries to open the door, she notice a large shadow flying pass her. She looks up, only to beget by horror a large dragon decents upon her. Immediatly her feets tells her to run. A loud roar echos from the sky, as the dragon flies in closer. Twilight ran as fast as her hoofs could carry her, but the dragon wasn't far behind,the sound of it's wings flapping in the air was like death's own. Twilight's heart beat ever s fast she could hear it, her adradeline pumping in her veins. But no matter how hard she ran the dragon was always on her tail. She tries using her magic to teleport herself to safety but somehow her magic wasn't working. Unable to use magic she darts around corners of building, trying to lose the tailing dragon.But her luck soon runs out as she meets a dead end. Her eyes darts around, trying to find another escape route, but her heart shrunk low as the sound of heavy claws decent on the ground behind her. She turns around, only to see a set of claws, and pairs of eyes staring down on her. Twilight closes her eyes, she knew there was nowhere for her to run or fight. She swallow down her last drop of saliva, and brace for her end. " Twilight? Is that you?" The dragon speaks softly, trying not to scare Twilight any further. Confused, Twilight open her eyes slowly. " Hooowww do do ddooo... you know me? " Her voice breaks a little, still frighten. " It's been a long time Twilight, how have I missed you...." The dragon walks nearer to Twilight. As the moonlight slowly light the dragon's face, it all became clear. Only one dragon she knew has such eye and colour. Spike. " Spike?! WHAT IN CELESTIA'S NAME HAPPEN TO YOU!!! YOUR'R 10 FEET TALL AND...AND....HUGE!!! " Twilight shows a mixture of expression. Shocked and astounded at the same time. Spike appears to have grown up. His claws and body wasn't the same as before. His wings grew large and powerfull. Not only that, Twilight noticed there was a long scare running down the left eye of Spike's face. " What happen to you Spike? Those scars.....who did this to you...." Twilight raise her hoof, touching the long ugly scar that run down his left eye. " A lot has happen since you left Twilight.....many things....change..." Spike slowly open his huge claws, allowing Twilight to climb in. " But how long was I gone?" Twilight ask. ".......60 years Twi......60 long years......." Tears starts to flow down the ugly scar. Chapter 2- Once a Sweet AppleThe wind continue to blow nosily into Twilight's ear, making it hard for her to catch some sleep. Despite Spike's gigantic size, Twilight could lay her body down while riding on his back. It's been nearly 4 hours since Spike and her took off from the once happy and bright Ponyville she once called home. Despite the constant rustle of the wind in her ears, she tries her best to sleep, her heart fear that what she see might see will only hurt her more. Another 10 minutes later, Twilight could feel the wind had stop. Spike must have already stop flying and landed somewhere. " Spike...where are we? " Twilight ask as she open her eyes. A large field of barren trees laid before her sight. The once blooming trees that bears fruits to feed the hungry ponies of Ponyville, now all dead and blacken. " Welcome to Sweet Apple Acres....Our new home...." Spike gently reply. Sweet Apple Acres. Twilight remembers the lush green trees that her friend Applejack and her kin; Big Mac and Applebloom together with Granny Smiths used to run. But now, it's all dead and barren. The once bright coloured barrel are nowhere to be seen, only burned and charred wood. Spike and Twilight slowly walk their way towards the barn, home of the Apple Family. As she trots closer, she sees many holes and cracks ladden the sad looking barn, a quick memory flash, she remember the buiding used to be very well made and often clean. Such is the style and ways of the Apples. A quick glance of the barn only made Twilight even more sad. Tired and weary, she push aside her feelings and enter the barn. But as she place her hoof on the door, she hears a loud click. Without a moment notice, Spike's giant scaly hand reaches out and grabs her, just in time as a long silver barrel reveals itself from behind the door; a loud gunshot follow suits. " SPIKE!!!" Twiight scream as she felt the impact. The smell of burning gunpowder immediatly worries her more. " I'm ok Twi...this trap cannot harm me. " Spike lets down Twilight on the ground. Anxious, she looks at Spike's hand. Not a scratch insight. Although the hidden gun was fired at a point blank range, Spike was unhurt at all. " Twilight...is that you? " A familiar voice reaches her ears. But it can't be. An average pony only lives 30 years. Turning around, she see a familiar friend. A cowboy hats and that signature frackers on her face. Applejack. " IT IS YOU TWILIGHT!!! I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!!! " Applejack ran towards Twilight, but as soon as she got close, she suddendly pull out a hidden gun and pointed right at Twilight. " APPLEJACK!!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!!! " Spike shouted. " You sure she isn't one of those things? " " She's not a changlings!!! I assure you Appejack, she's the real Twilight. " Spike gave Applejack a reassuring look. She breath a sigh of relieve, putting down her gun away. Then she reaches her arms out, and hugs Twilight. A drop of warm tears drips on the back on Twilight's mane. " Applejack, how did it all happen....." there was a hint of dismare in Twilight's voice. " Years after you disappeared, the element of Harmony has been weakend. The elements can't work at full potential if one element was missing, and your's was the most powerfull...." Applejack sigh. " Discord, he has broken free once more...." Applejack went silent for a moment. Brushing her hair aside, she reveals a small silver device on her neck, it seem to be attached firmly on her neck. " What happen next....was the biggest war ever wage in the history of Equestria. " Applejack continues. " I lost everything, Twi...I don't even know my own voice anymore. " " What happen to you Applejack? " Twilight tries to confort her. " Its a long story Sugercube...right now, lets get you inside. You must be cold and hungry." Applejack leads Twilight inside the rundown barn with Spike following behind. He peeks his head out once more to check the surroundings before he close the doors. Once close, the trap is rearmed to ensure no tresspassers. Few hours pass as Twilight chat with Applejack throughout the night. Apparently, she has lost her voice while trying to save her farm from a fire cause by the war. A bullet shreded her voicebox while she was evacuating her kin from the farm. The only way she could speak again is that she has to implant an artificial voicebox for the rest of her life. The war erupted after Discord escaped from his stone prison. This time Discord got a little smarter, getting aid from a well-know enemy, the Changlings. In less than a year, Equestrial was in a all-out war with the Princess against the entire army of Changlings. But alas, without the full power of the elements of Harmony, Canterlot was soon overun by the forces of Chaos. Casualty of war soon numberd from hundreds to the thousands. As law and order fails, chaos and terror soon overshadow the land, bring dispair and misery. Unable to see Equestria burn to the ground, Princess Celestia and Luna gave up and surrended. Now the land is once more ruled by Discord and Queen Chrysalis as his 2nd in command. To ensure the element of harmony never be used again, Discord imprisond Princess Celestia to her own stone prison. However Luna was spared, but had to live her live of servitude to Discord. However Princess Celestia believed that Twilight did not just disappeared, she believed she would one day return. Seeing that the war had already been lost, she had the holder of the remaining element sealed in a time spell. Her aim was to ensure that all of the element would continue to survive until the return of the missing element. To reduce the chances of her plans being discovered, Applejack , Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie had to be sealed in special place each. Each location was special to each one of them, that way it reduce the chances for Discord of finding the remaining holder of the elements of harmony. Chapter3- The Long Road HomeSoon before long, it was already morning. Despite that, the sun was never sighted, ever since the day Celestia was dethrown from her place as the ruler of Equestria. It has being that way ever since she was imprisoned in her own stone prison, by Discord as to return the "favour" . Applejack softly closes the door behind her with care, so that she won't wake Twilight. The sky is as glommy as ever, since the sun has never actually risen. Grey clouds shadows the land, and sky simply dull. Applejack procede towards the main door of the barn, where the tireless dragon lay waiting. " Morning Spike..." Applejack greets Spike as he moves his body away from the door. " How's Twilight doing? " He ask. " She's doing fine, at least for now. I'm kinda worried she might lose her mind and all, after telling her what happen when she disppeared." Applejack procede towards a stack of old hay at the corner. A gentle push, she reveals a brute looking machine. " How long has it been, since you worked on that so-called suit of yours? Machines...I never liked them..." Spike is clearly upset, but it didn't matter to Applejack. She procede to pull the machine out, towards a place where there are some lights passing through the cracks and holes of the roof. As it moves into the light, it reveals a suit-like machine, gears and clogs glimers, while a large word in red present itself humbly. "Big Mac" " Well, it's not like I had a choice. I once thought all this tecnology was all bullshit and crap, but now it's been the only thing I can put my faith into. The pride of the Apple family..." Applejack eyes were a little teary. She remembers this suit that she and Big Mac and Applebloom used to help her built. This power-suit acts like an external body, but much stronger, much more agile, and defiantly more resilent, as it can carry 10 times more weight than an average pony could, and it's so strong it can take a manticore head-on. Despite the sudden influx of this kind of technologies, few could graps the full potential of it. Applejack however, could do much more. The Apple business still strives, but Applejack found a new ambition. She started making prototype after prototypes of the power-suit. Her endless search for new parts and gears became a habit, new tech became like a drug to her, fueling her need to make better power-suits. "After the death of my brother, this suit was the only thing left to remember him by. I just hope somewhere out there, Applebloom is fine." Applejack clenches a odd looking tool betweeb her teeth, trying to thighten every lose nuts and bolts she could find. " You know...clinging to something you name after lost ones isn't very...healty..." Spike being honest about his opinion. Applejack climb into the suit, her body slumbs into the small cockpit while the hatch closes. As the power-suit powers up, sounds of electronic beeps loudly, the limbs of the bulky suit clanks and clings as Applejack manuvoure the suit to her every movement. " The night my farm was ambushed, I heard Big Mac was trapped in the barn while it caught fire. To save him I foolishly charge into the barn, and got myself trapped. The last thing I saw was Big Mac in the power-suit holding me in his mechanical arm, as he shield me when the barn finnaly collapsed. When I woke up, all I ever knew was up in flames. Big Mac survived the fire, but he was too badly injured. He died later in the hospital. When I could finnaly leave the hospital, the nurses passed me the last remaining item Big Mac had with him. The ash-striken power-suit he wore to save me. "Applejack power down the suit as she got out of it. " I-i'm sorry to hear that. " Spike apologies. Applejack stood silent. Her eyes gaze upon the power-suit that had saved her life. A single drop of tear fell from her eyes, as she recall her big brother that used to pilot the suit. He never really talk much, but even those few words means a world to her and her family. " Now that Twilight has return...what are we going to do now? " Applejack's question seems to worry Spike a little. " Only what's left to do.....surviving." Spike reply with a concern tone. "I'll go get Twilight when she's ready....." ********************************************************************************************* Twilight join Spike and Applejack in the barn for some discussion. She doesn't appear very well, but she's pulling through. Spike procede to the center of the barn, drawing a brief map on the dirt ground. A few circles here and there indicates some familiar location, including Sweet Apple Acres and Ponyville. " Best of hope now is trying to fix the thing that should be done a long time ago..." Spike continue to draw some marking on the ground. " The element of Harmony? " Applejack reply " Yes. And I think I know where to start looking 1st..." Spike drew three smaller circles on the floor, briefly indicating their location and other possible place. " Princess Celestia told me that all of you are kept hidden away in a special location. At first I didn't know what she ment by "Special", but when you were released from the time spell, I guess it relates to the cutiemark. " " And mine was the Sweet Apple Acres. So that means....." " Yes...over the hills from where we are now is the rock farm, where I presume that's Pinkie must be somewhere in there..." Spike drags the dirt on the ground, an arrow points towards a batch of circles. " But isn't that place..." Applejack interupt. " Yes, that's where also lies the underground refuge, Orion.The underground town that only refugess know, the last safe heaven....for now. And that's where I hope we could find Pinkie, if she's still alive." " But how are we gonna find her? " Twilight question also puzzle Applejack. Spike reachd out toward a small pouch at his side. Carefully he pulls out something all too familar. The element of magic, the head gear only one can use. He place it carefully on Twilight's head, which immediatly shines. A faint beam of light appears, the light directly points towards Applejack. " There's only one way to find the others. If we so happens to came across anyone of the elements, it will immediatly shots out a beam of light. And with the elements being found, we too also find, our friends." " So starts the journey then...." "Even the long way back home starts, with a single step Twilight. Tomoro, we head for Orion, and hopefully we find Pinkie before somebody does..." Chapter 4- Pinkie's Promise Part 1It's been three days since Twilight , Applejack and Spike arrived at Orion. The last known safe haven for all pony and other kind alike. Being it an underground city, few had known to actually seen the light of day. Most of the residence are afraid, and rather paranoid, ever fearing if Orion would also fall like the others. The sounds of metal clings constantly in Twilight's ear, as Applejack continue to work on her power-suit hours after hours. The garage maybe small, but it still has ample space for even a large mechanical suit. Twilight sat down at the window, staring aimlessly at the city. Spike has been out the whole day,looking for possible information where Pinkie might be at. She sigh, closing her eyelids ever slowly, as if it all was just a bad dream. " Something troubling you sugercube? You look kinda worried. " Applejack broke the stale atmosphere that was hanging for a long time. " I don't know Applejack. Sometime I really wish this were all just a bad dream. Only if I hadn't mess up back then. " Twilight sigh, her sight lock towards the view of the city. "You did nothing wrong Twilight. You just messed up, but I ain't angry. I too sometimes wish this were all a bad dream, where I can just wake up, and just smile for it was just another nightmare. I think we all do Twilight...." Applejack continue working on her power-suit, stopping awhile to catch her breath. Twilight sigh. She resume peering into the nothingness of the view in-front of her. Only her mind wander, if she could undo all the mistakes she had done. Talk about curiosity, and she's the cat that wanders too far. Applejack sees her by the window from the corner of her eye. She placed down her tools, and trots to Twilight's side, giving her a soft hug from behind in attempt to comfort her. Twilight was caught by surprise, but she didn't object to it. She just closes her eyes, and let the warmth of her friend's body touches her's. The smell of oil and sweat from Applejack's coat reaches her senses , but that make her happy for at least she know Applejack will be there to guide her through this. The sound of heavy winds blows and wings flapping soon divert their attention outside. Spike has finally came back. Hopefully, with clues of her friend's where about. Twilight look into Spike's eye, full of hope and glee. Applejack just stood back and watch on, a smile across her oil-smudge face. " Nice to see you again Twilight...." Spike smiles at Twilight as he lands with a loud thumps on the ground. " So have you found any clue yet? You did not even told me where you went." Twilight bombard Spike question after question, trying her best to get any information from him. " Calm down Twilight, it's not like the information i get is gonna grow a pair of legs and walk away. Hey Applejack, I think it's best you join us too. " Will do. Just let me finish ma stuff first." Applejack nods. Twilight and Spike proceed towards a larger room next door, while Applejack quickly finishes up her work so she could join them. Grabbing a rag from the worktable, she wipes off the oil and sweat from her forehead and off her face with a couple of swipes. Taking a few deep breath, she feels rested enough to join the others in the next room. Hopefully, Spike has the necessary information to find their friend, Pinkie Pie. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Spike carefully spreads a large map on the table, the old parchment slowly unfolds to every corner of the table. The candle light revels elaborate details on the map.Twilight and Applejack stood at different side of the table, waiting for Spike to reveal his finding to them. The tension in the air was tight, yet unnerving. " I've receive information regarding Pinkie Pie and her possible location. " Spike points to a place not far from Orion, about 5 miles. The expression on Spike's face was dead serious, his eyes focus to the map. " and where did you get that information from Spike? Until now you have never told me where or whom you've been getting this information from. Not that I don't trust you, but given the circumstances, I just want to be sure that it's not leading us to any dangerous place. " Applejack broke her silences, her eye's stares deep into the dragon's eyes. " Trust me Applejack. My sources are by far the most reliable. Although I cannot reveal it yet, but given the time it will be clear. As for now, we should be focus on how we're gonna get Pinkie back." Spike replied to Applejack's doubt. " So, we know where Pinkie Pie is now. We should go and get her now. " Twilight was trotting in the room, her heart unrest and her mind troubled. " But there's a problem. And it requires our attention. " There was a rather grim tone in Spike's voice. He seems worried. The room went silent for a moment. Twilight and Applejack wait in anticipation for Spike's explanation. " The danger's we face later will be unlike...." " If you're are worried about changelings and renegades you can leave it to me. Me and my power amour will make short work of them. Don't tell me that your're afraid of those thing? You're a dragon Spike! 30 feet tall with razor-sharp claws and fangs, not to mention your fire-breathing ability! Twilight is safe as long as we can woop their asses! " Applejack interrupt Spike. Her anger was clearly expressing her frustration. " They are not the problem! " " Then who is?! Tell me! " " Please calm down Applejack. Let Spike explain. " Twilight tries to calm down Applejack, but to no avail. Her frustration clearly squash any effort to help her calm her down. With a deep sigh, Spike reaches for his bag pack, his huge claws carefully retrieving several stack of pictures. As soon as he place them on the table for everypony to see, the mood in the room turn silent. Both Twilight and Applejack were stun to their core. Their eyes and hooves trembles for as long as the image burn into their mind. Picture after pictures shows scene of a bloody and messy slaughter. Bone, flesh and organs. Twilight couldn't stomach the gore, and she rush out of the room to relieve herself. Applejack continue browsing picture after picture, still unbelieving of what's she is looking at. Even her harden soul felt a slight chill running down her spine. " Spike! What is the meaning of this?! " Applejack was enraged, slamming her hoof on the table. "That...is what's in between us and getting to Pinkie Pie. " " But-but....who would do such a thing?! This is madness! " " Take a guess. " Spike brings out another slide of picture. This time one of the image clearly shows a disemboweled changelings. But on it's chest was cut out image of three balloons among the countless amount of deep cuts. Only one known pony bears that cutie mark. " You have got to be kidding me. It can't be her that did this....." Applejack was devastated. her eyes fixed on the image Spike brought up. " I too hope it won't be her. But denial would not do us any better. That's our only lead. I'm afraid our problem...." "...is the one we sought to rescue. " Applejack was too deep in her shock and disbelieve. She force herself to close her eyes, still refusing to believe what she saw. "......Pinkie Pie." Pinkie's Promise Part 2Twilight grew more uncomfortable as they journey through the small valley. The sound of Spike's trampling foot and Applejack's noisy power-suits fills the eerier silence, but it was not the sound that was making her restless. She try her hardest to take a slow breath, but the air was thick with a scent all too familiar to her. Death. The smell was heavy and rather ill. " How far do we still have to travel? " Applejack comment. She too is getting little restless. " Just a little longer. We will know when we get there. " Spike calmly reply, his eyes remain focus on the paths ahead. Despite his large size, the vegetation and fog would do well in hiding him on ground. Applejack walks in-front, while Spike stay at the back, just in-case anything might be following them. An hour later they reach a small run down shack, where they agree on to take a short break. Applejack however remains in her suit, not willing to exits the safety of her machine. " How are we suppose to find Pinkie here? There's noting here but dead vegetation and fog here. " Applejack speak up, as her nerves are getting ever more tense. Spike kept silent, which make things a lot more uneasy for the group. Moments later they reach a clearing. " We should take a rest here for now". Spike gently carry Twilight off his back using his massive claws. Applejack does the same by powering down her suit. Mechanical sound hisses and gears grinds as she exits her metal giant. " So what's our plan now? Last I heard Pinkie ain't exactly the type to show up since she's now extremely paranoid." Applejack sigh as she takes a deep breath. She's sweating plenty and even cloths are soaking wet. Must be real hard to pilot those mechanical suits. " Our plan now is that we do nothing." Spike utter those words without hesitation. Both Twilight and Applejack were stunned by his words. Twilight lance over to Spike and wonder if he has lost his nerve. " You alright in your head there Spike. Because one thing for sure we AIN'T gonna find Pinkie by just doing nothing. And what? She's just gonna show up on our door step?! " Applejack response with frustration in her tone. Spike merely glance at her and gave her a sly grin. His claw reaches to a bag next to him and pulls out a vial of liquid and uncork it. "Well not exactly but this will draw her attention, if my info was right." A very peculiar yet metallic scent swirl around the nostril of Twilight and Applejack. Twilight immediately covers her nostril, trying not to barf from the smell, but it didn't bother Applejack. Instead her eyes narrows. " If that's what I think it is you better hope your information is right. I'm starting to doubt this info you keep getting from anonymous sources I don't even know of. " Applejack walks away in displease , Twilight still a little confuse by what she meant. " Spike, care to enlighten me on this vial of fluid? It's not like it's something that the Pinkie I know would even be attracted to" She walks up to the big purple dragon, her eyes gleam in need for an answer as she look into his eyes. Spike eyes her back tentatively and sigh. " Twilight, I'm afraid that everything that you ever know about this world is already at an end. The world is not the same anymore from what you knew all those years back. As the world has change, so have I and everypony that you every knew, including Pinkie. I can only hope for the best that our other friends fare far better than us." Spike cork back the vial and lay it down gently by the bonfire. The liquid glimmers of a pale green under the dim light, and somehow it make Twilight felt a little uneasy. She glance to the skies hopping she could gaze upon the moon that once used to shine bright at night, but only to be disappointed by the dark clouds that hands over the skies. " You know Spike, although I will eventually know what or how much you guys have been through, I'm not afraid to face those changes that has you have experience. I'm not as weak as you think I am." Twilight grumbles, knowing Spike may still think she's as weak as she is. " I do not doubt that Twilight. After all, you save us plenty of time and Equestria, I'm sure you will pull it off again. But this time, you will be stronger and much more fearless. Equestria deserve a second chance to see the light of day again. And perhaps when this is all over, I just might go back to be your best number one assistance." Spike chuckle as he nuzzles Twilight gently with his large muzzles. Twilight smiles back in return. Cute as always, Spike never once forget those stuff. Even when he was just a little baby dragon he would at time know how to comfort Twilight when she's down and sad. In a way he posses a gift even her brother could not share. It's like her own child she would raise. He's more than an assistance, and much more than just a dragon. A sibling or perhaps a child. Either way what it is, she's glad to have him and is still with her by her sides always. " Well Spike, I have faith in your next decision. I can only hope Pinkie still remembers who she is. With you by my sides together with Applejack, I am sure we will pull this off together." Spike only smile at her, knowing Twilight have his full trust.
Chapter 1- The Grim Future" Common Spike!!! I'm eager to try this new spell I just found when I was in Cantelot. " Twilight was flipping through her books in her library. A large brown bulky book lay open as she uses her magic to flip each page. " What's so special about this spell? " Spike ask as he clean the piles of books that were laying on the floor. Typical Twilight. Twilight was in Cantelot last week. During her stay she browse the National Library and came across a particular book of spell. The title wasn't very clear, probably because the book was old and covered with dust. But as she read it through, the book describe a spell that was suppose to allow the caster to see into the future. The spell require several material as describe and right before she went back to Ponyville she obtained them all at Cantelot. " You know Twilight...the material that this spell require...really got me worrying. Scales, metals and gems...." Spike express his worry as he unloads all the materials from a large sack. A large piece of Obsidian drop from the sack, making a odd but unworldy sound as it fell onto the floor. " Carefull Spike....I want to make this work...so stop messing around...." " Yes...Twilight...." Spike lets out a sigh. Spike immediatly prepare what was needed. Based on the book, all the material are to be arrange in a specific manner. Spike lay the gem and different types on metal on the floor in an orderly fashion based on the instruction on the book. The large Obsidian was place in the middle, surrounded by the other materials in a group of circles. Spike look at the book once more to check if everything is in place. " All done Twilight.....but are you sure about this? I heard of magic doing thing of sorts but time itself?...." " Based here it grants the caster a glimps of the future...like a vision....and I'm eager to try if it's possible...." " Glimps of the future ha?? I wonder what will be of me and Rarity in the future?? " Spike blush as he lets his imagintion runs wild in his head. " ohhhhh Spike...You cheeky dragon....I wouln't be sure myself....the spell didin't say which part of the future....I only guess in a period of 30 or 40 years maybe?? Well, no matter. Let us begin!! " Twilight's horn is envelop in a purple aura, which then levitate the book as she chants the incantation. Spike stood behind her as she perform the spell. The air in the library thicken as Twilight's magic fills the room. The materials on the floor levitates and now rotates around in circles. Static starts to form in thin air and moments later the large Obisidian that was in the center burst forth a bright beam, creating a very mirror-like matrix in the middle of the room. Spike's jaw drop. He never knew how capable Twilight's magic were. After a series of flash and minor explosion, everything came to a stop. " Wow Twilight....I never knew you were this good....I mean this spell isn't easy you know..." Spike picks up Twilight back on her feet. The spell must have really take a lot of concentration and efford to pull it off. " Thanks Spike...now what to do with this...." Twilight points at an unknown object in the middle of the library. A large sphere, floats in the middle of the room, static and sparks flies from its surface at random direction. " So how does it work...." Spike tries to poke it but the static just zap his finger, a slight shock discourage Spike from poking it again. "Hmmm....let me try...." Twilight stood infront of the sphere and concentrate. An image or sort starts to form in the sphere in a swirly movement. After a moment, the atmosphere starts to feel heavy, as if a magic field of some power fills the room. Static starts to dart out from the sphere in a frenzy manner.A mixture of aura of diffrerent colour burst out in a large gust from the sphere. Twilight was too amased by the manner of magic that she didin't realise the aura was enveloping her. Spike tries to pull her away but was knock back, as if block by an invisible field of magic. Spike tried to scream at her but it is as if she couldn't hear a thing. The whole room suddendly started to shack violently. Twilight, finnaly realise the situation at hand, panic and tries to break herself out of the ever closing aura around her. " SPIKE!!! GET ME OUT OF HERE!!! " Twilight scream desperatly as the aura close in on her. Spike reach out to a nearby wooden chair and try to break her out, but to no avail as the chair simply bounce back. The aura finnaly close in around Twilight, and in an instance a bright flash appears, blinding Spike. After the blinding light fade away, all was left was a burn out Obsidian stone in the center of the library. Twilight was nowhere to be found. " Twilight?! TWILIGHT!!!!!! " * * * * * * * * * * * ********************************************************************************************************* " oouchh...my head..." Twilight finnaly awoken. Her head still hurts from before, all she could remember was being envelop by an aura then it all black out. Still confuse, she tries to get a visual of her surrounding. Piles and piles of books was the first thing she saw, but she knew where she is. The library. But something doesn't feels right. The whole place is a mess. Books and papers scatter across the floor, like a typhoon just hit this place. The air smells dead and musty, like this place hasn't been touched for ages. Then, the tought of Spike came to her. Where is that little dragon? As she futher investigate the whole place for any sign of Spike, she ponder what happen. Spike usually keeps the place clean and spotless. After a while she gave up. " Maybe I might have more hope looking for him outside..." As she open the door, all she could think, was what had happen. Before her eyes, Ponyville lies in ruins. Instead of the once bright town full of joyfull pony, now a desolated town shroud in darkness and destruction. The stench of Death is thick and strong. Twilight's feet became soft, as her eyes watches on. What happen? How in Celestia's name did all of this happen? Uncertain and devasated, all she could now is find Spike. Twilight journey out into the town. No pony was insight. All the building were either boarded up or destroyed. TownHall was in ruins. The whole structure had collapsed on itself. Even Sugarcube Corner was in ruins. It's wall collapsed and destroyed. " SPIKE!!! " She yell out loudly, hoping she could at the very least find Spike. She continue to call out as she journey into the desolate town. Even the sky was dark and miserable. The moon was showing itself, but it was red like the colour of blood. After an hour of relentless searching, Twilight finnaly gave up. Seeing that it was pointless to go on, she immediatly return to the only place she could think as shelter. The library. A few minutes later she arrives at the entance of the library. But as she tries to open the door, she notice a large shadow flying pass her. She looks up, only to beget by horror a large dragon decents upon her. Immediatly her feets tells her to run. A loud roar echos from the sky, as the dragon flies in closer. Twilight ran as fast as her hoofs could carry her, but the dragon wasn't far behind,the sound of it's wings flapping in the air was like death's own. Twilight's heart beat ever s fast she could hear it, her adradeline pumping in her veins. But no matter how hard she ran the dragon was always on her tail. She tries using her magic to teleport herself to safety but somehow her magic wasn't working. Unable to use magic she darts around corners of building, trying to lose the tailing dragon.But her luck soon runs out as she meets a dead end. Her eyes darts around, trying to find another escape route, but her heart shrunk low as the sound of heavy claws decent on the ground behind her. She turns around, only to see a set of claws, and pairs of eyes staring down on her. Twilight closes her eyes, she knew there was nowhere for her to run or fight. She swallow down her last drop of saliva, and brace for her end. " Twilight? Is that you?" The dragon speaks softly, trying not to scare Twilight any further. Confused, Twilight open her eyes slowly. " Hooowww do do ddooo... you know me? " Her voice breaks a little, still frighten. " It's been a long time Twilight, how have I missed you...." The dragon walks nearer to Twilight. As the moonlight slowly light the dragon's face, it all became clear. Only one dragon she knew has such eye and colour. Spike. " Spike?! WHAT IN CELESTIA'S NAME HAPPEN TO YOU!!! YOUR'R 10 FEET TALL AND...AND....HUGE!!! " Twilight shows a mixture of expression. Shocked and astounded at the same time. Spike appears to have grown up. His claws and body wasn't the same as before. His wings grew large and powerfull. Not only that, Twilight noticed there was a long scare running down the left eye of Spike's face. " What happen to you Spike? Those scars.....who did this to you...." Twilight raise her hoof, touching the long ugly scar that run down his left eye. " A lot has happen since you left Twilight.....many things....change..." Spike slowly open his huge claws, allowing Twilight to climb in. " But how long was I gone?" Twilight ask. ".......60 years Twi......60 long years......." Tears starts to flow down the ugly scar.
Chapter 2- Once a Sweet AppleThe wind continue to blow nosily into Twilight's ear, making it hard for her to catch some sleep. Despite Spike's gigantic size, Twilight could lay her body down while riding on his back. It's been nearly 4 hours since Spike and her took off from the once happy and bright Ponyville she once called home. Despite the constant rustle of the wind in her ears, she tries her best to sleep, her heart fear that what she see might see will only hurt her more. Another 10 minutes later, Twilight could feel the wind had stop. Spike must have already stop flying and landed somewhere. " Spike...where are we? " Twilight ask as she open her eyes. A large field of barren trees laid before her sight. The once blooming trees that bears fruits to feed the hungry ponies of Ponyville, now all dead and blacken. " Welcome to Sweet Apple Acres....Our new home...." Spike gently reply. Sweet Apple Acres. Twilight remembers the lush green trees that her friend Applejack and her kin; Big Mac and Applebloom together with Granny Smiths used to run. But now, it's all dead and barren. The once bright coloured barrel are nowhere to be seen, only burned and charred wood. Spike and Twilight slowly walk their way towards the barn, home of the Apple Family. As she trots closer, she sees many holes and cracks ladden the sad looking barn, a quick memory flash, she remember the buiding used to be very well made and often clean. Such is the style and ways of the Apples. A quick glance of the barn only made Twilight even more sad. Tired and weary, she push aside her feelings and enter the barn. But as she place her hoof on the door, she hears a loud click. Without a moment notice, Spike's giant scaly hand reaches out and grabs her, just in time as a long silver barrel reveals itself from behind the door; a loud gunshot follow suits. " SPIKE!!!" Twiight scream as she felt the impact. The smell of burning gunpowder immediatly worries her more. " I'm ok Twi...this trap cannot harm me. " Spike lets down Twilight on the ground. Anxious, she looks at Spike's hand. Not a scratch insight. Although the hidden gun was fired at a point blank range, Spike was unhurt at all. " Twilight...is that you? " A familiar voice reaches her ears. But it can't be. An average pony only lives 30 years. Turning around, she see a familiar friend. A cowboy hats and that signature frackers on her face. Applejack. " IT IS YOU TWILIGHT!!! I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!!! " Applejack ran towards Twilight, but as soon as she got close, she suddendly pull out a hidden gun and pointed right at Twilight. " APPLEJACK!!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!!! " Spike shouted. " You sure she isn't one of those things? " " She's not a changlings!!! I assure you Appejack, she's the real Twilight. " Spike gave Applejack a reassuring look. She breath a sigh of relieve, putting down her gun away. Then she reaches her arms out, and hugs Twilight. A drop of warm tears drips on the back on Twilight's mane. " Applejack, how did it all happen....." there was a hint of dismare in Twilight's voice. " Years after you disappeared, the element of Harmony has been weakend. The elements can't work at full potential if one element was missing, and your's was the most powerfull...." Applejack sigh. " Discord, he has broken free once more...." Applejack went silent for a moment. Brushing her hair aside, she reveals a small silver device on her neck, it seem to be attached firmly on her neck. " What happen next....was the biggest war ever wage in the history of Equestria. " Applejack continues. " I lost everything, Twi...I don't even know my own voice anymore. " " What happen to you Applejack? " Twilight tries to confort her. " Its a long story Sugercube...right now, lets get you inside. You must be cold and hungry." Applejack leads Twilight inside the rundown barn with Spike following behind. He peeks his head out once more to check the surroundings before he close the doors. Once close, the trap is rearmed to ensure no tresspassers. Few hours pass as Twilight chat with Applejack throughout the night. Apparently, she has lost her voice while trying to save her farm from a fire cause by the war. A bullet shreded her voicebox while she was evacuating her kin from the farm. The only way she could speak again is that she has to implant an artificial voicebox for the rest of her life. The war erupted after Discord escaped from his stone prison. This time Discord got a little smarter, getting aid from a well-know enemy, the Changlings. In less than a year, Equestrial was in a all-out war with the Princess against the entire army of Changlings. But alas, without the full power of the elements of Harmony, Canterlot was soon overun by the forces of Chaos. Casualty of war soon numberd from hundreds to the thousands. As law and order fails, chaos and terror soon overshadow the land, bring dispair and misery. Unable to see Equestria burn to the ground, Princess Celestia and Luna gave up and surrended. Now the land is once more ruled by Discord and Queen Chrysalis as his 2nd in command. To ensure the element of harmony never be used again, Discord imprisond Princess Celestia to her own stone prison. However Luna was spared, but had to live her live of servitude to Discord. However Princess Celestia believed that Twilight did not just disappeared, she believed she would one day return. Seeing that the war had already been lost, she had the holder of the remaining element sealed in a time spell. Her aim was to ensure that all of the element would continue to survive until the return of the missing element. To reduce the chances of her plans being discovered, Applejack , Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie had to be sealed in special place each. Each location was special to each one of them, that way it reduce the chances for Discord of finding the remaining holder of the elements of harmony.
Chapter3- The Long Road HomeSoon before long, it was already morning. Despite that, the sun was never sighted, ever since the day Celestia was dethrown from her place as the ruler of Equestria. It has being that way ever since she was imprisoned in her own stone prison, by Discord as to return the "favour" . Applejack softly closes the door behind her with care, so that she won't wake Twilight. The sky is as glommy as ever, since the sun has never actually risen. Grey clouds shadows the land, and sky simply dull. Applejack procede towards the main door of the barn, where the tireless dragon lay waiting. " Morning Spike..." Applejack greets Spike as he moves his body away from the door. " How's Twilight doing? " He ask. " She's doing fine, at least for now. I'm kinda worried she might lose her mind and all, after telling her what happen when she disppeared." Applejack procede towards a stack of old hay at the corner. A gentle push, she reveals a brute looking machine. " How long has it been, since you worked on that so-called suit of yours? Machines...I never liked them..." Spike is clearly upset, but it didn't matter to Applejack. She procede to pull the machine out, towards a place where there are some lights passing through the cracks and holes of the roof. As it moves into the light, it reveals a suit-like machine, gears and clogs glimers, while a large word in red present itself humbly. "Big Mac" " Well, it's not like I had a choice. I once thought all this tecnology was all bullshit and crap, but now it's been the only thing I can put my faith into. The pride of the Apple family..." Applejack eyes were a little teary. She remembers this suit that she and Big Mac and Applebloom used to help her built. This power-suit acts like an external body, but much stronger, much more agile, and defiantly more resilent, as it can carry 10 times more weight than an average pony could, and it's so strong it can take a manticore head-on. Despite the sudden influx of this kind of technologies, few could graps the full potential of it. Applejack however, could do much more. The Apple business still strives, but Applejack found a new ambition. She started making prototype after prototypes of the power-suit. Her endless search for new parts and gears became a habit, new tech became like a drug to her, fueling her need to make better power-suits. "After the death of my brother, this suit was the only thing left to remember him by. I just hope somewhere out there, Applebloom is fine." Applejack clenches a odd looking tool betweeb her teeth, trying to thighten every lose nuts and bolts she could find. " You know...clinging to something you name after lost ones isn't very...healty..." Spike being honest about his opinion. Applejack climb into the suit, her body slumbs into the small cockpit while the hatch closes. As the power-suit powers up, sounds of electronic beeps loudly, the limbs of the bulky suit clanks and clings as Applejack manuvoure the suit to her every movement. " The night my farm was ambushed, I heard Big Mac was trapped in the barn while it caught fire. To save him I foolishly charge into the barn, and got myself trapped. The last thing I saw was Big Mac in the power-suit holding me in his mechanical arm, as he shield me when the barn finnaly collapsed. When I woke up, all I ever knew was up in flames. Big Mac survived the fire, but he was too badly injured. He died later in the hospital. When I could finnaly leave the hospital, the nurses passed me the last remaining item Big Mac had with him. The ash-striken power-suit he wore to save me. "Applejack power down the suit as she got out of it. " I-i'm sorry to hear that. " Spike apologies. Applejack stood silent. Her eyes gaze upon the power-suit that had saved her life. A single drop of tear fell from her eyes, as she recall her big brother that used to pilot the suit. He never really talk much, but even those few words means a world to her and her family. " Now that Twilight has return...what are we going to do now? " Applejack's question seems to worry Spike a little. " Only what's left to do.....surviving." Spike reply with a concern tone. "I'll go get Twilight when she's ready....." ********************************************************************************************* Twilight join Spike and Applejack in the barn for some discussion. She doesn't appear very well, but she's pulling through. Spike procede to the center of the barn, drawing a brief map on the dirt ground. A few circles here and there indicates some familiar location, including Sweet Apple Acres and Ponyville. " Best of hope now is trying to fix the thing that should be done a long time ago..." Spike continue to draw some marking on the ground. " The element of Harmony? " Applejack reply " Yes. And I think I know where to start looking 1st..." Spike drew three smaller circles on the floor, briefly indicating their location and other possible place. " Princess Celestia told me that all of you are kept hidden away in a special location. At first I didn't know what she ment by "Special", but when you were released from the time spell, I guess it relates to the cutiemark. " " And mine was the Sweet Apple Acres. So that means....." " Yes...over the hills from where we are now is the rock farm, where I presume that's Pinkie must be somewhere in there..." Spike drags the dirt on the ground, an arrow points towards a batch of circles. " But isn't that place..." Applejack interupt. " Yes, that's where also lies the underground refuge, Orion.The underground town that only refugess know, the last safe heaven....for now. And that's where I hope we could find Pinkie, if she's still alive." " But how are we gonna find her? " Twilight question also puzzle Applejack. Spike reachd out toward a small pouch at his side. Carefully he pulls out something all too familar. The element of magic, the head gear only one can use. He place it carefully on Twilight's head, which immediatly shines. A faint beam of light appears, the light directly points towards Applejack. " There's only one way to find the others. If we so happens to came across anyone of the elements, it will immediatly shots out a beam of light. And with the elements being found, we too also find, our friends." " So starts the journey then...." "Even the long way back home starts, with a single step Twilight. Tomoro, we head for Orion, and hopefully we find Pinkie before somebody does..."
Chapter 4- Pinkie's Promise Part 1It's been three days since Twilight , Applejack and Spike arrived at Orion. The last known safe haven for all pony and other kind alike. Being it an underground city, few had known to actually seen the light of day. Most of the residence are afraid, and rather paranoid, ever fearing if Orion would also fall like the others. The sounds of metal clings constantly in Twilight's ear, as Applejack continue to work on her power-suit hours after hours. The garage maybe small, but it still has ample space for even a large mechanical suit. Twilight sat down at the window, staring aimlessly at the city. Spike has been out the whole day,looking for possible information where Pinkie might be at. She sigh, closing her eyelids ever slowly, as if it all was just a bad dream. " Something troubling you sugercube? You look kinda worried. " Applejack broke the stale atmosphere that was hanging for a long time. " I don't know Applejack. Sometime I really wish this were all just a bad dream. Only if I hadn't mess up back then. " Twilight sigh, her sight lock towards the view of the city. "You did nothing wrong Twilight. You just messed up, but I ain't angry. I too sometimes wish this were all a bad dream, where I can just wake up, and just smile for it was just another nightmare. I think we all do Twilight...." Applejack continue working on her power-suit, stopping awhile to catch her breath. Twilight sigh. She resume peering into the nothingness of the view in-front of her. Only her mind wander, if she could undo all the mistakes she had done. Talk about curiosity, and she's the cat that wanders too far. Applejack sees her by the window from the corner of her eye. She placed down her tools, and trots to Twilight's side, giving her a soft hug from behind in attempt to comfort her. Twilight was caught by surprise, but she didn't object to it. She just closes her eyes, and let the warmth of her friend's body touches her's. The smell of oil and sweat from Applejack's coat reaches her senses , but that make her happy for at least she know Applejack will be there to guide her through this. The sound of heavy winds blows and wings flapping soon divert their attention outside. Spike has finally came back. Hopefully, with clues of her friend's where about. Twilight look into Spike's eye, full of hope and glee. Applejack just stood back and watch on, a smile across her oil-smudge face. " Nice to see you again Twilight...." Spike smiles at Twilight as he lands with a loud thumps on the ground. " So have you found any clue yet? You did not even told me where you went." Twilight bombard Spike question after question, trying her best to get any information from him. " Calm down Twilight, it's not like the information i get is gonna grow a pair of legs and walk away. Hey Applejack, I think it's best you join us too. " Will do. Just let me finish ma stuff first." Applejack nods. Twilight and Spike proceed towards a larger room next door, while Applejack quickly finishes up her work so she could join them. Grabbing a rag from the worktable, she wipes off the oil and sweat from her forehead and off her face with a couple of swipes. Taking a few deep breath, she feels rested enough to join the others in the next room. Hopefully, Spike has the necessary information to find their friend, Pinkie Pie. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Spike carefully spreads a large map on the table, the old parchment slowly unfolds to every corner of the table. The candle light revels elaborate details on the map.Twilight and Applejack stood at different side of the table, waiting for Spike to reveal his finding to them. The tension in the air was tight, yet unnerving. " I've receive information regarding Pinkie Pie and her possible location. " Spike points to a place not far from Orion, about 5 miles. The expression on Spike's face was dead serious, his eyes focus to the map. " and where did you get that information from Spike? Until now you have never told me where or whom you've been getting this information from. Not that I don't trust you, but given the circumstances, I just want to be sure that it's not leading us to any dangerous place. " Applejack broke her silences, her eye's stares deep into the dragon's eyes. " Trust me Applejack. My sources are by far the most reliable. Although I cannot reveal it yet, but given the time it will be clear. As for now, we should be focus on how we're gonna get Pinkie back." Spike replied to Applejack's doubt. " So, we know where Pinkie Pie is now. We should go and get her now. " Twilight was trotting in the room, her heart unrest and her mind troubled. " But there's a problem. And it requires our attention. " There was a rather grim tone in Spike's voice. He seems worried. The room went silent for a moment. Twilight and Applejack wait in anticipation for Spike's explanation. " The danger's we face later will be unlike...." " If you're are worried about changelings and renegades you can leave it to me. Me and my power amour will make short work of them. Don't tell me that your're afraid of those thing? You're a dragon Spike! 30 feet tall with razor-sharp claws and fangs, not to mention your fire-breathing ability! Twilight is safe as long as we can woop their asses! " Applejack interrupt Spike. Her anger was clearly expressing her frustration. " They are not the problem! " " Then who is?! Tell me! " " Please calm down Applejack. Let Spike explain. " Twilight tries to calm down Applejack, but to no avail. Her frustration clearly squash any effort to help her calm her down. With a deep sigh, Spike reaches for his bag pack, his huge claws carefully retrieving several stack of pictures. As soon as he place them on the table for everypony to see, the mood in the room turn silent. Both Twilight and Applejack were stun to their core. Their eyes and hooves trembles for as long as the image burn into their mind. Picture after pictures shows scene of a bloody and messy slaughter. Bone, flesh and organs. Twilight couldn't stomach the gore, and she rush out of the room to relieve herself. Applejack continue browsing picture after picture, still unbelieving of what's she is looking at. Even her harden soul felt a slight chill running down her spine. " Spike! What is the meaning of this?! " Applejack was enraged, slamming her hoof on the table. "That...is what's in between us and getting to Pinkie Pie. " " But-but....who would do such a thing?! This is madness! " " Take a guess. " Spike brings out another slide of picture. This time one of the image clearly shows a disemboweled changelings. But on it's chest was cut out image of three balloons among the countless amount of deep cuts. Only one known pony bears that cutie mark. " You have got to be kidding me. It can't be her that did this....." Applejack was devastated. her eyes fixed on the image Spike brought up. " I too hope it won't be her. But denial would not do us any better. That's our only lead. I'm afraid our problem...." "...is the one we sought to rescue. " Applejack was too deep in her shock and disbelieve. She force herself to close her eyes, still refusing to believe what she saw. "......Pinkie Pie."
Pinkie's Promise Part 2Twilight grew more uncomfortable as they journey through the small valley. The sound of Spike's trampling foot and Applejack's noisy power-suits fills the eerier silence, but it was not the sound that was making her restless. She try her hardest to take a slow breath, but the air was thick with a scent all too familiar to her. Death. The smell was heavy and rather ill. " How far do we still have to travel? " Applejack comment. She too is getting little restless. " Just a little longer. We will know when we get there. " Spike calmly reply, his eyes remain focus on the paths ahead. Despite his large size, the vegetation and fog would do well in hiding him on ground. Applejack walks in-front, while Spike stay at the back, just in-case anything might be following them. An hour later they reach a small run down shack, where they agree on to take a short break. Applejack however remains in her suit, not willing to exits the safety of her machine. " How are we suppose to find Pinkie here? There's noting here but dead vegetation and fog here. " Applejack speak up, as her nerves are getting ever more tense. Spike kept silent, which make things a lot more uneasy for the group. Moments later they reach a clearing. " We should take a rest here for now". Spike gently carry Twilight off his back using his massive claws. Applejack does the same by powering down her suit. Mechanical sound hisses and gears grinds as she exits her metal giant. " So what's our plan now? Last I heard Pinkie ain't exactly the type to show up since she's now extremely paranoid." Applejack sigh as she takes a deep breath. She's sweating plenty and even cloths are soaking wet. Must be real hard to pilot those mechanical suits. " Our plan now is that we do nothing." Spike utter those words without hesitation. Both Twilight and Applejack were stunned by his words. Twilight lance over to Spike and wonder if he has lost his nerve. " You alright in your head there Spike. Because one thing for sure we AIN'T gonna find Pinkie by just doing nothing. And what? She's just gonna show up on our door step?! " Applejack response with frustration in her tone. Spike merely glance at her and gave her a sly grin. His claw reaches to a bag next to him and pulls out a vial of liquid and uncork it. "Well not exactly but this will draw her attention, if my info was right." A very peculiar yet metallic scent swirl around the nostril of Twilight and Applejack. Twilight immediately covers her nostril, trying not to barf from the smell, but it didn't bother Applejack. Instead her eyes narrows. " If that's what I think it is you better hope your information is right. I'm starting to doubt this info you keep getting from anonymous sources I don't even know of. " Applejack walks away in displease , Twilight still a little confuse by what she meant. " Spike, care to enlighten me on this vial of fluid? It's not like it's something that the Pinkie I know would even be attracted to" She walks up to the big purple dragon, her eyes gleam in need for an answer as she look into his eyes. Spike eyes her back tentatively and sigh. " Twilight, I'm afraid that everything that you ever know about this world is already at an end. The world is not the same anymore from what you knew all those years back. As the world has change, so have I and everypony that you every knew, including Pinkie. I can only hope for the best that our other friends fare far better than us." Spike cork back the vial and lay it down gently by the bonfire. The liquid glimmers of a pale green under the dim light, and somehow it make Twilight felt a little uneasy. She glance to the skies hopping she could gaze upon the moon that once used to shine bright at night, but only to be disappointed by the dark clouds that hands over the skies. " You know Spike, although I will eventually know what or how much you guys have been through, I'm not afraid to face those changes that has you have experience. I'm not as weak as you think I am." Twilight grumbles, knowing Spike may still think she's as weak as she is. " I do not doubt that Twilight. After all, you save us plenty of time and Equestria, I'm sure you will pull it off again. But this time, you will be stronger and much more fearless. Equestria deserve a second chance to see the light of day again. And perhaps when this is all over, I just might go back to be your best number one assistance." Spike chuckle as he nuzzles Twilight gently with his large muzzles. Twilight smiles back in return. Cute as always, Spike never once forget those stuff. Even when he was just a little baby dragon he would at time know how to comfort Twilight when she's down and sad. In a way he posses a gift even her brother could not share. It's like her own child she would raise. He's more than an assistance, and much more than just a dragon. A sibling or perhaps a child. Either way what it is, she's glad to have him and is still with her by her sides always. " Well Spike, I have faith in your next decision. I can only hope Pinkie still remembers who she is. With you by my sides together with Applejack, I am sure we will pull this off together." Spike only smile at her, knowing Twilight have his full trust.
