The Return of Discord

Chapters

Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three

Chapter One

Applejacks orchards are one of the most beautiful places in Ponyville. Or at least, it is to me. I love strolling through her orchards in the summer, and the tall trees look absolutely beautiful in the winter when they are covered in snow. But most of all, I love sitting by one for her tree’s to read a good book. Before I moved to Ponyville, I had always stayed indoors with my good friend, Spike. I had always thought that making friends was something that was not important to me. After all, the best friend I could have ever asked for was my brother, Shinning Armor.

But when Princess Celestia sent me to Ponyville, and when Nightmare Moon almost caused eternal darkness, the people who stuck by my side were, and still are, my best friends in the world. Applejack, whose element of Harmony is Honesty. Fluttershy, whose element is Kindness. Pinkie Pie, whose element is Laughter. Rarity, whose element is Generosity. Rainbow Dash, whose element is Loyalty. And my element; an element nopony knew what looked like; Magic. Together, and only together, we defeated Nightmare Moon, returning her to her normal self, the humble sister who asked Celestia for forgiveness.

Since then, I have been living in Ponyville, writing to Celestia of my learning’s on friendship. Sure, we have had to save Equestriea a few times, and we have also saved The Crystal Empire from King Sombra. But being with my friends has changed me more and more from each adventure we had. My friends have made into the mare I am today, and without them, I would be stuck alone in my library back in Canterlot, reading my books.

As of now, I am roaming the Orchard alone. Certainly I would enjoy the company of somepony, perhaps Pinkie Pie, who loves walking the woods, telling of parties she’s thrown and planning more of her great signature parties. Or perhaps Rainbow Dash, telling, once more, of her time with the Wonderbolts, her favorite aerobatics. Any of my pony friends would do. But alas, sometimes, my pony friends are busy; and so, today, I am forced to walk alone.

Lost in my thoughts, I soon found myself at one of AJ’s barns. The thing was old and had been abandoned quite some time ago. Half of the roof had fallen down, and the once bright red paint, the signature color of all the barns at Sweet Apple Acers, was now a dull red and full of holes. The thing was quite a sight to see. Most of Applejacks barns never got this way. So I was curious as to why this one had been left here to fall apart. I decided to go find Applejack and find out.

She was quite a long ways away, maybe three, four miles, but I did not mind the walk. After all, I was not that tired and it was still early in the day. She would certainly have some time to talk. After all, apple bucking could be done while talking, and she would enjoy some conversation. Most of the time she bucked alone and it can get very lonesome by ones self.

After trekking the three or so miles, I finally came across Applejack.

“Howdy they’re Twilight. What are you up to?” Asked Applejack.

“Nothing much. How is the apple picking coming along?” I asked.

“Not bad. I was about to take a break for some lunch. You want to join me?” she asked.

“I’d love to AJ but I must ask you something first.” I said.

“Fire away Sugarcube.” She said.

“Well, I was walking through your orchard, when I came across one of your barns. But the thing was falling apart. I was just curious as to why you would let one of your barns fall down like that.”

“What are you talking about? We have no old barns. All our barns are in good condition.” She said

“Well, let me show you.” I said.

Half an hour later found us in the front of AJ’s barn. It was exactly as I left it. “Wow-wee. That barn is in one poor shape, ain’t it sugarcube.”

“It sure is AJ. Why did you let it fall down? You can certainly use more barns.”

I know. But the think is, …uh, … well… I don’t exactly remember having a barn in this spot.” She said, scratching her head.

“Well that doesn’t explain why there is a barn here.” I said. “Are you sure that you never built this barn? If not, there has to be an explanation for its existence. You cant just magically poof a barn into existence. Not even a Unicorn like me.”

“I know Sugarcube. But it’s just an old barn. Maybe Granny Smith built it when she was a filly. Besides Twili, what does it matter? And its not harming anypony where it’s standing.”

“Well if you say so Applejack.” I said.

“Now come on Twilight, lets get something to eat.”

Two hours later found me back in front of my house that I shared with my friend Spike. I had known him since he was hatched from an egg. Princess Celestia had given the dragon to me as a gift. Since then, Spike has stayed with me and helped me with my magic. I have learned a lot from the baby dragon and I have come to love him and rely on his help in the library.

“Spike you here?” I asked.

“In here Twili.” Spike said. “Where were earlier? Pinkie Pie stopped by to invite you to another party. The party is at Sugar Cube Corner tomorrow at 5:00.”

“Thanks Spike. What would I do without you?” I asked.

“Probably not go to Pinkie Pie’s party.” Said Spike. I laughed. Sometimes Spike has a good sense of humor. “Anything interesting happen at AJ’s?”

“I found one of her barns, but it was falling apart. The strange thing was that she doesn’t remember it ever being there.” I said. “But it’s probably nothing. After all, it won’t harm nopony.”

“Well knowing you, you would probably look for an explanation of why its there.” Spike said.

“Well this time I wont. After all, I have a party to go to tomorrow. You should come with Spike. You haven’t been to one of her parties in awhile.”

“Well what else would I do?” Spike asked. “After all, your wish is my command.”

“Come off it Spike. You can do what you want. You can have fun. Its not like you don’t know what that is. Your not Princess Luna.”

“Ha ha. Very funny Twilight.’ Spike said. “Remind me to laugh. I’ll go with you. I love Pinkie Pie’s parties. IN fact, I think EVERYPONY loves Pinkie Pies parties. I’m sure everypony in Ponyville, no probably EQUESTRIEA has been to a Pinkie Pie party.”

“I wont argue with that Spike. Pinkie Pie loves to party.” I said. “She loves to party so much, she forgot her own birthday once.”

“I remember that. How could anypony could forget there own birthday is beyond me.” Spike said.

“Well this is Pinkie Pie. She is always busy trying to have as much fun as anypony could possibly have in one day.” I said. “Now anything else happen while I was gone?”

“Um, Rainbow Dash stopped by and wanted you to hang at the lake. She’s probably done by now. You could go down there to check if you’d like.”

“Why not. Come with me Spike. You’ve been cooped up for a few days helping me re-organize my books. You deserve to have some time off.”

“Great! I’ll go get my bathing suit.”

*****

Down at the lake Rainbow Dash was daydreaming. She could see it now. Herself with the Wonderbolts, traveling around Equestria preforming tricks to amazed fans yelling her name. “Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash!” Suddenly, she was jerked awake to find Twilight yelling her name. “Sorry Twilight. Must have dozed off.” I said.

“Its okay Rainbow.” Twilight said. “Spike over here,” she said, gesturing to him, “Told me you stopped by to see me.”

“Yea. I wanted to see if you wanted to hang out today. But Spike said you were at Applejacks.” I said. “Did you have fun?” I asked.

“Well, I had about as much fun as one could have while in ones own thoughts.” Twilight said.

“Geeze Twili, you’re starting to sound like Luna. Doith thought havith funith atith Applejacksith?” I said jokingly.

“Ha ha. Is everypony going to make jokes about me today?” Twilight said.

“Come on Twili. Were just messing with you. Is there something wrong?” I asked, concerned. “It seems that you have been a little…uh…weird lately. I said.

“Everything’s fine. Well, I’ve been really busy with an assignment the Princess gave me so I haven’t been sleeping much.” Twilight said.

“Well there’s your problem Twili.” I said. “You have too much stuff going on. Take a load off. Relax; catch some Z’s as some ponies say. It’s unhealthy to do that much studying. Seems a little un-moral to me actually.” I said.

“What about you when you’re practicing your stunts to impress the Wonderbolts?” Twilight said defensively.

“That’s different. I still take breaks. Know when to stop myself. You on the other hand, could study for days! And I’m pretty sure you have Twili.” I said.

“O, all right. You win Dashie.” Twilight said with a laugh. She flopped down on a lawn chair beside me, closed her eyes, and sighed.

“See Twilight, relaxing can be fun.” I said, stretching on my chair. Spike ran to the lake and jumped in, drenching an unsuspecting Twilight with water.

“Spike!” Twilight yelled. I couldn’t help but laugh. Suddenly Twilight charged at Spike and splashed him, which caused them to have a water fight. Deciding to join in, I flew way up in the air, and flew back down, breaking the sound barrier just as I hit the water; creating a Sonic Rainboom, which completely drenched the surrounding area and blew all the water out of the lake.

We all looked at each other for a moment, and we started laughing uncontrollably. “Hold on a minute, I can fix this.” I said. I flew off and returned a few moments later with some storm clouds. I jumped onto each one, and in turn, refilled the lake back up in a matter of minutes. “Ta da!” I exclaimed. “Twilight laughed and swam for the shoreline.

She climbed back onto the shore and shook herself dry. She found her chair in the woods stuck in a tree. She used her magic to remove it and placed it back on the beach. With a wary sigh, she sank back down onto it. I grabbed my chair from the woods and sat down beside her.

“Feeling better Twili? More relaxed now?” I asked.

“Well I was up until Spike drenched me and you blew all the water out from the lake.” She said with a smile.

“Hey! I put it back you know.” I said. “Besides, we had fun. Oh! Which reminds me, Pinkie Pie is having ANOTHER party tomorrow at 5:00.”

“I know,” I said. “Spike over here…”

“Yes Twilight?” Spike said from across the lake.

“Nothing Spike.” Twilight said. Spike shrugged and continued lazily swimming laps around the lake. “As I was saying. I have been notified about the party, and I will go. Are you going Dashie?”

“Of course! I wouldn’t miss her party of the world!” I said. “Do you know who else is going?” I asked.

“No. I can’t say that I do. Probably Fluttershy, Rarity and Applejack. Maybe some other ponies from Ponyville. Well I’m pretty certain that DJ Pon-3 and Octavia are probably going to be there. After all, there the best musicians in Ponyville.” I said. “But who knows? Hey! Wouldn’t it be cool if Celestia showed up? Bet you’d love that Twili, seeing as how you haven’t seen her in a while.” I said.

“I know. But this is Celestia were talking about. She’s too busy to go to parties. She has to take care of Equestria.” Twilight said.

“I know Twili, but she’s been to a Pinkie Pie Party before.” I said.

“She probably wasn’t busy, or was passing through Ponyville and decided to stop by.” Twilight said. “And besides, she is the most important pony in all of Equestria. What would bring her to Ponyville?” Twilight said.

“Well, I guess we’ll find out tomorrow who’s going.” Twilight said.

After hanging with Rainbow for the rest of the day, Twilight decided to retire to the Library to continue studying. Spike stayed to hang with Rainbow for a little while longer. “Be back before dark Spike.” Twilight called over her shoulder. After Twilight had gone, I decided to go for a swim.

“Why aren’t you a Wonderbolt?” Spike asked casually.

“What?” I asked

“Why aren’t you a Wonderbolt yet? Did you upset Spitfire or something?” Spike said.

“I…I never really thought about it. Well, actually, I’ve spent hours thinking about it. I just don’t know Spike. It is something I have wanted to do since I was a Filly. But I cant become a Wonderbolt unless Spitfire says so.” I said, feeling a tear roll down my cheek.

Suddenly, I felt Spike giving me a hug. Come on Dashie. You can become anything you set your mind to. You’ve done, like, 5 Sonic Rainboom’s in your life! You saved the Wonderbolts from falling, you’ve saved Equestria, you…”

“Okay Spike, I get it. But being a Wonderbolt is something really hard to do. Even to be a coach for the Wonderbolts. It takes Skill, Speed, and Strength. I feel like I’m giving it my all, and if they still don’t think I’m worthy, then I’ll never become a Wonderbolt.” I suddenly wanted to be alone. But Spike felt really bad for asking me about this, and he seemed to want to make it up to me.

“Come on Rainbow. Cheer up. You’ll become a Wonderbolt. Just you wait. Soon, the Wonderbolts will be begging you to join their team.” He said.

“I…I got to go Spike.” I said, fearing that I might breakdown and cry in front of him. I Ran out of the lake and towards the Everfree forest.

“Rainbow! Rainbow! Don’t go! I’m sorry I brought up the subject! But I was gone.

I walked for what seemed like hours, tears slowly rolling down by cheeks. I felt bad both because of the way I had ran out on Spike when he was trying to be sympathetic, that I wasn’t yet a Wonderbolt, and how pathetic I am acting. Spike could be really sweet sometimes. It was a surprise to me that Rarity hasn’t noticed how Spike felt towards her. But I had run out on him, just like I do to all my other problems, when all he was doing was being there for me.

Suddenly, I heard a voice say, “Why who is this walking in my way? Why it is Rainbow Dash, who seems to be a bit gray. Why so down my racing friend. Why not turn that frown upside-down?” It was Zecora.

“It… its complicated.” I said.

“Well now Rainbow, don’t be sad. Please be glad, for whatever it is that is making you feel stuck, may just get you a streak of good luck. Come now, Rainbow, to my hut and I don’t want to hear any but’s.”

Half an hour later found me at Zecora’s hut. She led me inside and I closed the door behind me. “Now then. Tell me what is troubling you, my friend.” Zecora said. So I told Zecora everything that had happened at the lake. The whole time I talked, Zecora worked at her cauldron. When I was done talking, she had finished her potion.

“Drink this. It will help get rid of the abyss that you are feeling.” I drank it, and suddenly felt warmth flow up through me and I felt instantly better. “There. How are you feeling? A bit more fair I presume.”

“Yea. Thanks Zecora. But I still feel bad for running out on Spike. He was just trying to be helpful.”

“Yes. Problems like that do arise, and can make you feel small in size, but things will always work out in the end, my dear rainbow friend.”
“But I can still fix my problem. Spike would understand, right?” I asked Zecora.

“Why yes your problems can always be addressed and fixed.” Zecora said.

“Thanks Zecora!” I said. I ran out of her hut.

“Your welcome!” Zecora yelled as I ran out of her hut and flew up into the air. I knew I couldn’t talk to Spike about what happened at the lake tonight, as he was probably home, so I would have to tell him at the party tomorrow.

*****

With a sigh, Spike watched Rainbow run into the Everfree forest. Why do I always do that? He thought. Why did I have to bring up the Wonderbolts? He knew it was a touchy subject with her and he knew he shouldn’t have brought it up, but he wanted to know. But he just scared her off.
Spike started walking home, thinking about the Wonderbolts, and thinking up schemes to get her to become a Wonderbolt, each one more ridiculous than the last. Suddenly, he found himself at his house that he shared with Twilight. He walked inside and found Twilight sitting on her bed reading a book. She looked up when I came in.

“Have fun with Rainbow Dash?” she asked.

“No.” I said.

“What happened?” she asked concerned. So I told her what happened at the lake.

“And then she ran off!” I exclaimed.

“Well you know she is a little touchy at the subject of the Wonderbolts.” Twilight exclaimed. When she came home from the Academy, she stayed inside her house for a week. Then, for over a month afterword’s, if the subject of the Wonderbolts ever came up, she would leave. “So why would you bring the subject up?” Twilight asked.

“I thought she was over it! It’s been like, what, 7 months since it happened. I thought she would be okay with it by now. I didn’t mean to upset her like that.”

“I know you didn’t Spike. I’m not blaming you for what you did. In fact, I was curious myself about what had happened at the Wonderbolt Academy.” Twilight said.

“I wish I had never brought it up. What was I thinking? Id feel bad too if I had been working for something my whole life; just to have it taken away from me. I just hope she forgives me.” I said.

“Why wouldn’t she? She’s your friend Spike. Don’t be so down. She will come around Spike. Just give her some time.” Twilight said.

“I know Twilight. I hope she is feeling better.” I told her.

“Spike, Rainbow Dash is the toughest mare I have ever met. She will come around. Just give her time. She will understand you didn’t mean to hurt her feelings.” Twilight said.

“I know that Twilight.” I said. “But she can be resentful sometimes and she…”

“Come off it Spike” Twilight interrupted. “Why wouldn’t Dashie forgive you? It just slipped out. You were curious and wanted to know. Ponies make mistakes Spike.” She said.

“Yea, your right Twilight.” I said. “I’ll make it up to her tomorrow. She has GOT to understand Twili. She’s GOT to!” I told her.

“Okay Spike. It s getting late” Twilight said with a yawn. “We’d better get to bed Spike. We got a lot to do in the morning. We have to prepare for Pinkies party.”

“Okay Twili. I’ll see you in the morning.” I said.

“Okay Spike” Twilight said as I left her room.
*****
That night, Spike couldn’t sleep. He kept tossing and turning in his bed. With a sigh, he climbed out of his bed and went to get a drink. “I’ll never get to sleep.” Thought Spike. He gulped down some water and washed the glass. He decided to go for a walk to sort out his thoughts. He quickly wrote a note and placed it on his bed in case Twilight needed him.

A few moments later found himself walking the deserted streets of Ponyville. Try as he might, he could not stop himself from thinking about Rainbow Dash. He felt really bad about bringing up the Wonderbolts like that. He felt even worse on the prospect that she might not talk to him again, or at least for a little while. And it would probably be a little awkward when he was around her.

But things would be better. She certainly would forgive him. She HAS to. Spike thought. Eventually, he found himself at Sweet Apple Acers. His thoughts turned to Applejack. Maybe the farm pony could give him some advice on friends. He knew it wasn’t that late, maybe 8:00-9:00. Applejack usually stayed out late, especially during Apple bucking season. So he decided to look for the Earth Pony.

*****

Applejack was indeed out apple bucking. She knew it was growing dark quick, and it looked like it was going to rain soon, but she didn’t care. She had important things to do. She stopped. She thought she heard somepony calling her name. There it was again! “Hello?” She called out.

“Applejack?” Somepony WAS calling her name!

“Over here!” She called. She saw that it was Spike. “Spike! What are you doing out here! Its dark and its going to rain soon.” I said.

“Well I couldn’t sleep so I decided to go for a walk and I found myself here and I need to talk to you.” Spike said.

“Come with me to my house. Its getting dark” I told Spike. On the way, Spike told me everything that went on at the lake with Rainbow Dash.

“And now I feel really bad. Twilight told me not to worry, but I cant help but worry! I know it seems a little absurd, but I can’t help but be afraid that she might not forgive me.” Spike said.”

By the time he had finished talking, we found ourselves at my house. “Now come on Spike.” I said. “Rainbow Dash will forgive you. I know it’s the same thing Twilight said, but what else can I say to make you feel any better?”

“I know AJ, but I feel terrible, and I can’t sleep because I keep thinking about Rainbow.” Spike said as we entered my kitchen.

“Here Spike, have some apple fritters,” I said, pulling out the dessert from the fridge. “Made them me ‘self this afternoon.” I told him.

“Thanks AJ” Spike said with a smile. After the snack, I looked out the window. It had begun to rain. We could here the wind picking up. “Spike, maybe you should stay here tonight.” I told him. “Does Twilight know you’re here?”

“Well I left her a note saying that I was going out and I would be back soon. So yea I think she wouldn’t be to worried. She would think that it had started raining, so I went to someponies house until morning.” Spike said.

“Well that’s good. Come on. Its off to bed with you.” I told him.

I led him to my room. “You’ll have to sleep with me Spike. Sorry.” I said.

“Its okay AJ.” Spike said. We climbed into bed and I closed my eyes. Suddenly, I felt Spike snuggle up close next to me.

“Woo their partner.” I said. Spike blushed and went to untangle himself from me, stuttering apologies.

“I don’t normally sleep with people and I like to snuggle…” he managed to say.

“Its okay Spike. I wasn’t expecting that to happen. I’m okay with it though.” I told him with a smile.

“O…okay Spike stuttered, snuggling back up against me. I felt his head just under my neck. “Goodnight AJ.” He said.

“Goodnight Spike.” I said, kissing him on the head. Spike looked at me and blushed. I smiled at him and put my hooves around him. I felt him put his arms around me. I closed my eyes and drifted off to sleep.

The next morning, I awoke with Spike snuggled up next to me. I looked at him and smiled. Spike was really sweet. Now if only he could confess his feelings for Rarity. She thought. With a sigh, she slipped out from the baby dragon’s grasp and prepared to get ready for the day. When she was ready, she took a glance at Spike. He looked cute lying there dreaming, and she decided not to wake him. At least until breakfast was ready.

She walked down the stairs and saw Big Mackintosh making some pancakes. “Howdy there AJ. Sleep well?” He asked.

“Slept fine Big Mac.” I said.

“I wish you would have told me there was company last night” Big Mac said.

“Sorry Mac. Spike wanted to see me last night and it started to rain, so I let him stay here.” I said.

“Listen AJ,” Big Mac said. “Do you have a thing for Spike? When I went to check on you this morning, you guys were snuggling with each other. Did anything happen between you two last night? It’s okay if you two like each other. I don’t mind it a bit, but if you two DO like each other, just tell me.”

“No. I don’t like him in that way. Its just he normally snuggles when he sleeps and I didn’t mind it at all. Actually, it was kind of nice sleeping with Spike. But no, there is nothing between us but friends.” I told him.

“Okay then. If you say so.” Big Mac said. “Like I said, I’m okay if you do, and if you ever want to tell somepony, you can tell me. Nopony will know but us until your ready.” Big Mackintosh said.

“Okay Big Mac whatever you say.” I told him. I didn’t have feelings for Spike. Sure, I enjoyed sleeping with him, and it felt good to have someone snuggled with me, but I certainly wasn’t in love with him or anything. He was sweet, and if he weren’t to embarrassed to confess his feelings for Rarity, they would be perfect together.

“Is breakfast ready? I asked.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac said.

“Okay. I’ll go get Spike.” I said.

“Eeyup.” Said Big Mac

I went upstairs and opened my room door. Spike was still sleeping soundly. “Spike, partner, wake up its morning.” I said, shaking him.

Huh, wha…? Spike stammered. “

“You want breakfast?” I asked Spike.
“Yea, just give me a minute,” he told me.

“Okay.” I said, waiting for him to get ready.

“Listen, about last night…” Spike said

“Ah already said its okay Spike. Actually, I kind of liked sleeping with you. It felt nice. I’ve never slept with someone before, and I like it. Maybe its cuz I felt like somepony other than ma family loved me, ah don’t know. I do know that I liked spending the night with you, and I would love to do it again sometime. You’re a great person Spike, and you deserve to be with somepony. So would you want to sleep over again tonight, I mean, if that’s okay with you and probably Twilight.” I said.

“Ye…yea sure AJ. AJ, do you…do you like me?” Spike asked

“I…I don’t know Spike. I’m a little confused right now. I need to get my feelings in order. Don’t get it wrong Spike. Your really sweet but ah don’t know how I feel about you yet.” I told him. But that was ridiculous it would never work out if we started… no AJ. You can’t help it how you feel about somepony. Just give it time AJ. Don’t rush yourself. Think about it.

“O…okay AJ. Frankly, I don’t know how I feel about it either. I kind of like you AJ, but I like Rarity but I don’t know if she likes me. She doesn’t seem to take any hints that I give. I really try with her AJ. I really do, but I don’t think she likes me.” Spike said sadly.

“I know Spike. But there’s no point in trying with somepony if they don’t feel the same way towards you.” I told him, embracing him in a hug. I felt him put his arms around me. I felt wetness on his cheeks.

“AJ, please don’t tell anypony I told you all this.” He said, wiping his tears on his arm. “And…and don’t tell them I was crying.” He added.
“Of course Spike. I would never dream of it.” I said, giving him a reassuring kiss on the cheek, which made him blush. “Come on Spike. Lets get some breakfast now.”

After breakfast, I decided to accompany Spike on the way to his house. “Besides, I think it would be important for her to know where you were.” I told him. As we walked we talked about what would happen if we started seeing each other. The longer we talked, the more I liked him. Part of me thought that it wasn’t right to like your friend. But another part of me told myself that you couldn’t help how you feel about somepony.

“AJ, what do you think that Twilight would say if we started seeing each other?” Spike asked. “Would she be upset, or happy for us?

“Ah don’t know Spike. But if we DO start seeing each other, maybe we should keep it between us, don’t you think? Or at least until we get the courage to tell everypony how we feel.”

“Yea. That’s a good idea AJ. But she wouldn’t be mad at us, would she?” Spike asked.

“Well, Twilight would probably be happy for us, Fluttershy would be to embarrassed to say anything, Pinkie Pie would want to throw a party, Rarity probably wouldn’t care, and Rainbow Dash would probably laugh at us.” I said.

“Well, there are some mixed results their AJ. It would probably be best that we kept it between us. I mean, if we DO start seeing each other.” Spike said.

“Well, Big Mackintosh confronted me this morning and said that he saw us cuddling last night and wanted to know if there was anything between us. I told him no, but he said we could tell him if we had feelings for each other and he wouldn’t tell nopony about us. If we DO start seeing each other,” I said, “we could tell him.”

“Okay AJ. I’m okay with that.” Finally, we saw Spikes house. We walked up to the door and knocked. Twilight answered the door.

“Spike! There you are! Where were you! I was a worried sick! I got your note but you have been gone for hours!” Twilight said.

“He came to see me last night and it started raining so we decided to stay there until morning. “ I told her.

“Well thank goodness your safe Spike. Thank you AJ for watching him. I hope he wasn’t a bother.” She said.

“Oh no. But actually, Twilight, can I ask you something?”

“Sure AJ.” She said.

I took a deep breath “Would it be okay if Spike slept over again tonight? I could use some company. I have some work to do and I don’t want to be by myself and I have some stuff to talk about with Spike.” I said

Confused, Twilight said, “Yea sure I don’t mind. Why don’t you pack your things Spike, and hang out with AJ today? I got some studying to do. But don’t forget Pinkie Pies party.”

“Great! Thanks Twili. I knew you’d understand!” I said.

“Understand what?” Twilight asked.

“Nothing Twili, nothing.” I said, suddenly embarrassed, feeling my cheeks glow red.
“I’m ready!” Spike said and walked passed Twilight.

“Well see you at the party” Twilight said, but they were already running away. “Huh, I wonder what got into them.”

“After they got out of sight of Twilight, they slowed to a walk.

“I was SUPER nervous! I was afraid she might notice something.” I said to Spike.

“I was scared she wouldn’t let me sleep over.” Spike said.

“So was I. But you can and I’m happy for that.” I said.

As we walked back, we talked about what we would do if we went on a date. As we walked, I realized I DO love him. He was nice, sympathetic, compassionate, and I loved everything about him. I loved the way he would blush and the way that he would stammer over things that he found difficult to say. How had I not noticed Spike before! It would have saved me some time. Sure, I had fallen for other colts before, but they were not even close to Spikes personality. But what would other ponies think if they found out? No. I don’t care. I love Spike. It doesn’t matter what other ponies think. Just what we think of each other.

But how to tell him? I had no clue what to say. Every time I would try and get the words out, they wouldn’t come. Just give it time AJ. I thought. You’ll tell him when you’re able. Finally, we arrived back at the farm. “Spike, run up to my room and put your things up there. Then we’ll go and hang out.”

“Okay AJ.” Spike said, running up the stairs and into my bedroom.

A few moments later, Spike came back downstairs and we were ready to go. “Okay, so I was thinkin’ maybe we could have a picnic in the orchard and go down to the river for a little while until Pinkie Pie’s party.” I said.

*****
“Sounds good to me.” Spike said, feeling his heart beginning to race. The whole day with AJ! Well, most of the day. They had Pinkie Pie’s party but after that, they had the rest of the afternoon and night to hang out.

*****
So we packed a lunch and started on our way. When they were out of sight of Sweet Apple Acers, I felt Spike take my hoof. I looked at him and he looked back at me, blushing. I smiled at him and slipped an arm around his waist and continued walking. ‘So this is what it feels like to be in love.’ I thought. It felt like nothing I had ever felt before. My stomach felt full of butterflies and I felt a little woozy. But I liked the feeling and didn’t want it to end.

Finally we got to a clearing and decided to set up the picnic. So we laid down the checkered tablecloth and set up our lunch. The first part of out lunch was in nervous silence. Spike sat next to me. Slowly as we ate, he scooted closer and closer to me. Finally he was snuggled up against me. We were basically done eating so I put my arm around him. “A…AJ.” Spike said

“Yea.” I said, my mouth suddenly dry.

“I…I, I don’t know how to say this so I will come outright and say it. I love you Applejack. I love the way you blush and the way you talk. I love the way you hold me close and tell me that you want to be with me. Ever since last night, I…I get butterflies when I think about you. It’s just hard to tell someone that you like them. And every time I went to tell you, I felt afraid you didn’t feel the same. I knew that you liked me, but I just couldn’t say anything.” Spike said.

“I feel the same way about you Spike. I haven’t noticed it until now, but you have always been there for me. You have always stuck by my side and I love you for that. You are the most amazing person that I have ever met. I love you too Spike. Then, before I could stop myself, I leaned in and kissed him. He was surprised at first, but he quickly came over it and put his hands around me and kissed me back. I put my hooves around him and kissed him passionately. When we broke apart, Spike blushed a deep crimson and avoided my eyes. I pulled him close to me and I felt him cuddle up to me and I heard him whisper in my ear “I love you Applejack.”

“I love you too Spike.” I said to him, brushing my lips across his cheek. We stayed at the picnic kissing each other and talking. We decided not to go to the river. So we stayed there for the rest of the day until it was time to leave. We walked back, bringing our things.

“So AJ, should we tell Big Mackintosh about us or should we keep him in the dark?”

“I think he deserves to know. He said he wont tell nopony, and maybe he can get us to have enough courage to tell the others about us.” I said.

“Okay AJ. Where is he at?” Spike asked.

“Should be apple bucking.” I told him.

“Well we’d better start looking then.” Spike said. After a little while of searching, we found him.

“Big Mac!” I called.

“Eeyup.” He said.

“C…can I – err – we tell you something?” I asked

“Eeyup.” He said
“I…were in love.” I said. I looked at Spike and he smiled at me. I felt him wrap his arms around me in an embrace. I kissed him gently to show Big Mac that I wasn’t kidding.

“Annnnnd?” he said.

“Well, we just wanted to let you know cuz you wanted me to tell you if we ever do go out. And we are.” I said mater-of-factly.

“Okay then. Are you going to tell your friends?” He asked.

“W…were not sure yet. We WANT to tell them, but were afraid of what their reaction would be. What if they think its bad, or if Twilight refuses to let us see each other? Or what if they don’t want to be our friends any more?” I asked.

“Then they weren’t really your friends in the first place. If there your friends, they will understand how you feel about each other.” Big Mac said, “If you love each other then you might as well tell your friends cuz it will seem suspicious and a little obvious if you to keep hanging out.”

“But how?” asked Spike.

“Well, there are two ways of doing this first, you can tell all your friends at once but that could evolve telling everyone else there, or tell them individually about how you feel.”

Spike looked at me and asked, “What do we do?”

“I think it would be better to go to each one individually and tell them.” I said.

“Okay AJ. We’d better hurry up to get ready to go to the party.” I said.

“You too Big Mac.” I said

“Eeyup.” He said. We all walked back together, Spike holding on to me. We went inside and Big Mac went to his room and Spike and me went into mine. We got ready for the party and when we left, Big Mac said he would take the long way. I’m pretty sure he did that to let us be alone, I thought with a smile.

“So who should we tell first? Asked Spike nervously.

“I think we should tell Twili first. She’s the most understanding.” I said.

“O…okay.” Spike said nervously. I knew of all our pony friends, Twilight Sparkle had to be one of the worst one to tell, probably because they lived together. To bad Spike wouldn’t be able to sleep with me every night. I thought.

Finally we reached the party. I felt Spike put his hand gently on my shoulder. He said, “No matter how this goes, I love you.”

“I love you to Spike.” I said, giving him a quick kiss.

I took a deep breath and walked inside. Suddenly, Pinkie Pie rushed at us and said “SpikeAJyoumadeitgoodtherespunchandfoodandLOOKitsTwilight!!!” and ran off to great Twilight.

“We both looked at each other and waited for Pinkie pie to leave her alone. When Pinkie left, we walked to her.

“Tw…Twilight? C…can we speak to you in privet? I asked

“Yea sure. Is something the matter?” she said.

She followed us to behind the counter and back were the bakers make the food. Luckily there was nopony there.
“Spike…Spike and I…Spike…” I gulped out. Twilight had a look of concern on her face. Spike interrupted and said

“Were in love.”

“Wh…What!” Twilight said.

“Spike shrunk away from her friend and put an arm around AJ.

“Look, ah now it’s hard to take in Twili, but please don’t be upset with him…with US. We really like each other and we thought about it and decided it was time our friends knew. We’ll understand if you’re upset about it. Yell at us if you want to. But it won’t change our feelings for each other.” I said.

“I…I’m…I’m speechless to tell you the truth. I certainly wasn’t expecting this! I’m…I’m happy for you both. Does anypony else know?” She asked.

“Well, were planning on telling our friends and Big Mackintosh knows also.” Spike said. “But were to afraid to let anypony else know.”

“Well okay then. If you really like each other then I wont stop you.” A look of relief and happiness crossed our faces that must have given Twilight what our fear was. “Wait, were you two…afraid to tell me how you felt because of how I might react? She asked. We both nodded. “That explains a lot. But why wouldn’t I let you two see each other?

“I…I don’t know. Maybe I wouldn’t be around as much to help you in the library.” Spike said.

“That’s nonsense and you know it Spike. I want you to be happy. And if being in a relationship with AJ is what makes you happy, then so be it. I wont stop you from being together.” Twilight said.

My face shined with happiness. Thank You Twili! I said, embracing my friend. Thanks for understanding!” I let go of Twili and Spike walked up to her.

“Thanks for understanding. You don’t know how much this means to us.” He said, giving her a hug. He smiled and walked away to find there other friends. Leaving a bemused Twilight in her own thoughts.

“Should we tell Pinkie Pie next?” I asked

“Yea okay.” Spike said. They found Pinkie Pie eating some cupcakes over at the snack table. Guests were already arriving, and the longer it took to find and tell each friend, the more of a chance that somepony would over here.

“Pinkie Pie. Can we talk to you?” Spike asked.

“Yesyoucanwhatdoyouanttotalkabout?” She asked

“Um, can it be in privet? We don’t want nopony knowing but our friends.” I told her.

“Okie Dokie!” She said.

We took her away from everypony and Spike said, “Me and AJ over here…were in love.”

“Omygoodness! Spike and AJ sitting in a tree. K-I…”

“Pinkie Pie, shhhhhhhh!” I said. “We don’t want nopony knowing but our friends! And that means you, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Twilight and Rarity. Oh and Big Mackintosh already knows. So PLEASE don’t go telling everypony about us. Pinkie Pie Promise.” I said.

“Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!” She said.

“Okay Pinkie Pie. Its just that were not sure if we want everypony knowing and…”

“Ohhhhhh! Is that Octavia and Vinal Scratch?” she said. She then bolted off in there direction.

“What’s the chance that she even remembers this conversation?” asked Spike

“What conversation?” I asked. We both laughed, mostly to get rid of some nervous tension.

“Hey, there’s Rarity.” I said.

Spike took a deep breath. “O…okay. Let…let’s get this over with.” Spike was really nervous.

“We walked up to Rarity and I said, “Can we speak to you in privet?

“Of course darlings. I know the perfect spot.” She said. We followed her out the back door to the back yard. “Well, this is about as privet as you can get at a party.

“Ummm, AJ, can you tell her?” Spike asked nervously.

“Of course Spike. We thought it would be best if our friends know that…that were seeing each other.”

“You two? Are dating?” she asked

“Y…yes. Yes we are Rarity. I really like her and she is sweet and kind and…”
“So this isn’t a joke I take it? You two are really going to date each other?”

“No its not!” I said defensively. “And if you would have noticed, Spike has had a thing for you for a while now, but you have been to plain to see! An I think that Spike deserves somepony that he loves. One that can actually TAKE A HINT!!!”

“Uh, AJ, I…uh…” Spike said

I looked at his embarrassed face and my anger cooled. I looked at Rarity and saw that her face was a mixture of surprise and embarrassment.

“Take a hint?” Rarity asked

“SPIKE WAS IN LOVE WITH YOU RARITY!!!” I yelled. “How can somepony not see how some other pony is feeling? Are you that stupid to know? Or do you like to mess with other peoples feelings?” Rarity looked like she was on the verge of tears.

“Please AJ…calm down it doesn’t really matter anymore. I’m with you now and you make me happy.” He said.

“Well, its true Spike. She is being ignorant and it is darn making me mad.” I said.

“Spike, I didn’t know you liked me.” Rarity said.

COME ON! It’s obvious that he liked you! How did you not see? How did you not know? Is it your petty fashion? If it doesn’t evolve clothes you don’t want to do it? If you have to get your hooves dirty, you want no part of it!” I said, glaring at her. Tears were rolling down her cheeks.

“Well I’m SORRY! If you have noticed, I haven’t had that many colts come my way! I have never been in love before AJ! Nor have I ever known if somepony would have feelings for me!” She said. “So SORRY that I can’t take a hint okay!”

“Well, it was practically obvious the way he was when around you.” I said defensively.

“AJ! Please. Don’t fight. AJ!” He said, tugging at her hoof. I looked down and saw Spike with tears running down his cheeks. I suddenly felt really bad for chewing out Rarity like that. But what happened happened, and there was no changing that.

“Rarity…I, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you. Its just, you seemed to be laughing at the thought of us in a relationship and it upset me. I didn’t mean to yell at you.” I said.

“And I didn’t mean to be rude. Spike, I’m especially sorry to you. I feel terrible for leading you on. I really didn’t know. I’m really happy for you guys. Believe you me.” She said.

“Come on Spike.” I said. All we need to do is find Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash and were done. Either they accept us for who we are, or…” I let the comment hang.

“Well I’m going to get out of your guy’s way. Again, I’m sorry for what I did.” Rarity said.

“Me too.” I told her.

“It…its okay Rarity.” I said

“Okay, now where is Fluttershy?” I asked Spike.
“Well, we’ll have to ask around then.” Spike said.

Finally, we found her in the corner nervous, as always. By now, we were more comfortable with telling our friends our feelings. So we were right upright when we told Fluttershy. “Fluttershy, we have something to tell you.” I said.

“Oh…okay…” she said.

“Spike and me are dating now.” I said.

“Oh…well…that’s great guys! I’m really happy for you! I hope you guys are happy together…. I mean, if that’s okay with you…”

“Thanks Fluttershy.” I said. I felt Spike put an arm around me.

“Have you seen Rainbow Dash?” Spike asked.

“Um…I think she is out back…I think…I’m not sure…”

“Okay. Thanks Fluttershy. I said.

“Your welcome.” She said.

“Sure enough, Rainbow WAS out in the back yard.

“THERE you are Spike! Listen, about yesterday, I’m sorry for running away. Its just that the Wonderbolts…”

“Its okay Rainbow.” Spike said.

“No, I mean it! I’m really sorry I ran away.” She said.

“Listen, Rainbow,” I said. “Me an Spike here have got to tell you something. We…were dating.”

“WHAT!” Rainbow said.

“I…um…” Spike stuttered.

“Don’t be upset Rainbow.” I said. “We really like each other and we thought about it for a while and we decided to tell our friends about us. We really love each other Rainbow.” I said.

“Wait, I’m not MAD at you! I’m happy! What? Did you think I would laugh or make fun of you?”

“Well, actually, yes Rainbow. We thought you were.” I said.

“Well I’m not. I’m really happy for you guys!” Spike smiled and put his arm back around me. “How long?” She asked.

“A…a few days.” Spike said nervously.

“Well congratulations! I’m really happy for you guys! Listen, I’ll see you around guys. I’m going to get something to drink and visit for a little while. See you in a bit.” She called over her shoulder, disappearing through the door.

“Well, that went better than expected.” I said.

“You’re telling me!” Spike said.

Author's Note

I know there are other "return of discord's' out there, but i decided to give the story a shot. this is the first story I've written, and i started this story before 'Keep Calm and Flutter on' came out, so i had to change up the story. I hope you've enjoyed the story so far, and feel free to post comments for...well...community!

Chapter Two

“Why don’t we go someplace alone for a little while Sugarcube?” I asked Spike. “I just want to talk about, ya know, us.”

“Yea. That’d be great AJ.” Spike said. We sat by a tree and looked at the stars. I felt Spike cuddling up against me. I brushed my lips against his, feeling his warm embrace and feeling his heart beating against his chest, which was beating faster than my own. We broke apart from the kiss and looked into each other’s eyes. His eyes were shinning with happiness and Spike blushed.

“Ah love ya Spike. I wish that tonight would never end.” I said to him.

“Same here.” Spike said. I pulled Spike close to me and I felt him nuzzle my neck. “I love you so much AJ. I know we basically just started dating but I really love you.” Spike leaned over and kissed my passionately. When we broke apart, he cuddled with me and we looked at the stars.

“So now what?” Spike asked.

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“We told our friends about us, and they seam to be happy for us, so now what? I mean, won’t it be a little awkward around them now? Now that were seeing each other, won’t it be a little…” He said.

“I know what ya mean. And it will be awkward, especially if we kiss in front of them…” I said.

“Yea I know. But what does it matter? They won’t think any different if us whether or not were together. Would they?” He asked.
“I don’t see why they would.” I said to Spike. After all, why WOULD they? I thought. Were just dating. Nothing more. But who cares? I love him and he loves me. And were both happy together.
*****
‘Well, I definitely didn’t see that coming.’ I thought as I watched Applejack and Spike walking away. Spike! Dating AJ! How did that happen! If Spike was to shy to tell Rarity how he felt, then how did he ever tell Applejack! It must have taken a lot of courage. Or maybe AJ asked him. But it still would have taken courage to tell her and the rest of there friends about their relationship.

‘All well.’ I thought as I left the kitchen and went out to enjoy the party. “I’m happy for them.’ I said to myself. I watched as Spike and Applejack went to talk to Pinkie Pie. I smiled and went to get some punch. For a while, I mingled around, talking to friends and having fun. Finally, I saw Rarity approach me.

“Um, Twilight, has Spike and Applejack talked to you yet?” She asked.

“Yea. They have. Why?” I asked.

“Well, what do you think?” She asked.

‘Well, I’m happy for them. If they really love each other, then good for them.” I told her.

“Well, apparently, Spike has had a crush on me. Did you know about that?” She asked.

“Well, yes. It was quite obvious. Didn’t you know that?” I asked her.

“No! I had no idea until AJ said something! Why didn’t he ever say anything to me?” She asked.

“Well, he was to embarrassed to tell you that.” I told her.

“Wait, if he couldn’t tell me, then how in Equestria did he have the nerve to ask out Applejack? She asked.

“I think she asked him. But that doesn’t seem like the Applejack I know. I think I’ll ask her how they started dating.” I said

“Okay. Well, tell me what she says.” Rarity said.

“Okay I w…” suddenly, I was interrupted by the sound of trumpeting. Suddenly, Princess Celestia walked through the doors! I thought to myself, ‘How in Equestria did Rainbow Dash guess that Celestia would show up!”

“Twilight Sparkle, It is of upmost importance that I speak with you and your friends.” I walked towards Celestia. “Ahh, but where is Applejack?” she asked.

“Umm, she’s a little busy right now Princess.” Rainbow Dash said. “Well it is of upmost importance that I speak with her as well.” Celestia said.

“Uh, I’ll go get her.” Rainbow Dash said. Celestia nodded.

“Um, Applejack? Spike?” Rainbow Dash called nervously out the back door of the shop. She saw them cuddling and Applejack looked up, saw Rainbow Dash, blushed and stood up. Spike did the same. “Um, Princess Celestia is here and wants to talk to us. Says it’s important.” Rainbow Dash said, blushing a deep crimson.

“O…okay” said Applejack. They followed Rainbow Dash inside. When they arrived, Princess Celestia said,

“Okay, follow me.”
I looked at Applejack and Spike as they walked up beside me. “What does she want?” Applejack asked.

“I don’t know. I’m surprised that she is here. It must be important.” I said as we walked past Celestia’s carriage.

“Okay, listen up. I don’t have a lot of time so I’m not giving a background story. I don’t know much, so I’ll tell you what I know.” Celestia said. “Discord is causing chaos.”

“WHAT!” We all said in union. “But…but how? We befriended Discord.” I said.

“Well, we don’t know how, but he’s been wreaking havoc all over Equestria.” Celestia said. “I have been informed by Princess Luna that Discord is in The Frozen North. Why he is there, I have no idea. Probably he thinks that he is out of my radar, and he WOULD have been, if Princess Luna weren’t visiting Princess Cadence. Of course, I would have found out eventually.” Celestia said.

“So what. Lets just get the Elements of Harmony and defeat him again.” Said Rainbow Dash.

“Well, that’s the thing. He took them, again, just like last time. And we befriended him anyways. I don’t want him turned to stone so maybe he’ll listen to you guys.” Celestia said.

“Figured that.” Said Rainbow Dash.

Spike put an arm around Applejack and said, “Did he leave any clues to where the Elements are? Or are they in the book like last time?”

“Spike, ah think that Discord isn’t dumb enough not to put them in the same place again.” Applejack said.

“No. Discord didn’t give any information, which makes me think that it might not be him.” The Princess said.

“Celestia, not to be rude, but what makes you think that it isn’t Discord? Maybe he didn’t give the riddle because he was afraid he would be defeated again or maybe he doesn’t want to be found and would feel bad for doing what he’s doing. Maybe he’s being FORCED to do what he is doing,” said Rarity.

“Well, the reason is simple. Discord thinks it is all a game. He wants to make it possible to beat, but difficult enough for us to not be able to win it. Not giving any clues would make the game impossible to win.” Celestia said.

“Well then, why do ya think that it isn’t Discord then?” Applejack asked.

“Well, we befriended Discord. So there are two possibilities. Possibility One is what Rarity said. The second one, and the worst, is that Discord has teamed up with someone.”

“Ohhhh, boy.” Said Fluttershy. “So what do you want us to do Princess?”

“Well, first I want you to all get prepared for the journey to The Crystal Empire. You will be staying with Cadence. I want you all packed and ready by morning.” Celestia said. “Now go, and be ready by 10:00. That is when the Train will leave.”

“Oh boy! A train ride! I love those!” Said Pinkie Pie, hopping away back towards her home. As we dispersed, Princess Celestia said,

Applejack? Spike? Please stay here. I wish to speak with you alone.”
*****
I looked back, and saw AJ and Spike turn around and head back towards the Princess.

“Spike! Applejack! when you’re done, come to my house. I’ll need some help packing.”

“Okay Twilight.” Spike yelled, and turned to face Celestia.
*****
As I turned to face Celestia, I thought to myself, ‘What could Celestia want?’

Celestia said, “Applejack, Spike, as you know, the power of Friendship is strong. But the power of Love…” Uh-oh, I thought. “Is stronger. The love you two show for each other will help in defeating Discord.

“But…but Princess, how did you know?” Asked Applejack.

Celestia smiled. “I am a lot older than you two think. I know a lot of things, Applejack. I noticed how Spike was treating you earlier, if you must know.”

“S…so what do you want us to do?” Asked Applejack nervously.

“Stay together. You remember what happened last time Discord made you all turn against each other. If you think that was bad, breaking someponys relationship is a lot worse. It can be bad enough that nothing can repair the relationship, even as friends, between two ponies.”

“So you want us to stay together. That’s all?” Asked Spike.

“Yes. That is all. You may go.” Said Celestia.

“P…Princess…could you not tell anypony about our relationship? We…were not sure if were ready for everypony to know about us.” Applejack said.

“Well, it is important that Princess Cadence and Princess Luna knows about it, but other than that, yes. Your relationship is safe with me.” She said with a smile.

“Thanks Princess. Hop on ma back Spike we’d better hurry to Twilights and see what she wants us to do.” Applejack said.

A little while later found us at Twilights house. “Ya wanted something Twilight?” Applejack said as we walked through the door.

“Yes. I wanted some help in finding some books we might need for tomorrow.” Twilight said.

“Okay Twilight.” Spike said.

“Here’s a list Spike. Applejack, if you would follow me…” Twilight said.

“Sure Twilight.” I said, following her into another section of the library, far away from Spike.
*****
“Here AJ, I also need these books as well.” I said.

“Okay Twili.” Applejack said.

“Can I ask you something AJ?” I asked as Applejack walked to a bookshelf.

“Sure Twilight. What is it?”

“It…its about you and Spike.” I said.

“What about us?” She asked.

“How? Like, what got you two to date? If its not to personal of course…” I said.

“Of course not Twili. I don’t really know what made me fall for Spike.” She said as she found the book she was looking for and placed it in a pile in the middle of the room. “I mean, he had to sleep with me cuz there was no place else for him to stay, and he cuddled with me. He said he normally does that and I didn’t mind it. Since he was cuddling, I decided to kiss his forehead as a joke like we were dating. We went to sleep and in the morning Big Mac said he saw us cuddling and wanted to know if we were dating. At first, I said no, and it was true.” She said finding another book and putting it in the pile.

“But then when I went to wake him up, he said he was sorry for cuddling with me and I said I didn’t mind. I liked it Twili! I actually liked snuggling with him! When I realized it, I kind of started to have a crush on him. I felt like I shouldn’t feel that way, but I also felt that you cant help the way you feel. He asked me if I liked him, and I said I didn’t know.
And when I walked to your house to ask for him to sleep over, we talked about what we would do if we dated, and when we walked back to my house, I realized I loved him. But I didn’t know how to tell him. Then later while we were hanging out, he confessed that he liked me, and I told him l liked him back…” She left the comment hanging.

“And you two kissed.” I said.

Applejack blushed and looked away. “Y…Yea.” Applejack said, avoiding my eyes.

“Well I’m happy for you two. It must have taken a lot of nerve for Spike to confess his feelings to you, and for you to tell him how you felt. And even more nerve to tell all your friends how you both felt towards each other,” I said. “What did everypony else say?” I asked.

Applejack put another book in the pile and said “They were happy for us of course. Twilight, is it…wrong to like Spike? I…I mean, I can’t help how I feel, but what should we do?”

“Well, do you love him?” I asked.

“Yes! With all my heart Twili.” Applejack said.

“Well then, keep dating him. It doesn’t matter what anypony thinks of you, just what you think of yourselves.” I told her. I took my pile of books and moved them in the middle with the pike of Applejacks.

“Um, Twili, do we even have enough room for all these books?” She asked.

“Yes of course AJ.” I told her.

“You do know The Crystal Empire has a library, and it is rather large…”

“Oh I know that AJ but they might not have all the books we’ll need. All right. I think that’s all of them.” I said.

“Um…Twili…uh…would it still be okay if Spike sleeps over?” Applejack asked embarrassedly.

“Of course AJ. He can sleep over whenever he wants to, and the same with you. Although I’ll have you guys stay in the guest bedroom. Actually, I think that it is about time Spike got his own room anyways.” I told her.

“Thanks so much Twilight!” AJ said.

“No problem AJ, although I’ll be a little lonely whenever Spike isn’t here.” I said.

“Well, I promise not to take him to often.” AJ joked. I laughed and said

“Take him whenever you like AJ. After all, he is your Special Somepony. Or dragon. Or whatever.” I said. AJ laughed.

“Okay Twili. Are we done?” She asked as she placed the final book on her list onto the pile.

“Yup. That’s about it.” I said. We left the room and found Spike finishing up with his books. “Okay Spike. You two can go.” I told him.

“Okay Twili.” He said and walked over to Applejack. He put his arm around her and walked out the door.
*****
“So what do ya want ta do Spike?” Applejack asked.

“I don’t know AJ. Whatever you wanna do is okay with me.” I said.

“You want to hang out someplace? We’ll have plenty of time to get ready to go to The Crystal Empire.” Applejack said.

“Okay where should we go? I asked. I figured we had about two hours before we had to be back at Applejacks, and it would take maybe half an hour to get ready.

“I don’t know. There aren’t really many places in Ponyville to go to. How about we just walk a trail in the country?” Applejack asked.

“Sure. I’d like that.” I told her.

So we headed off towards a trail near Sweet Apple Acers. We walked around for a while just talking about whatever random thing that came into our minds, laughing and joking around. It was a lot of fun, more fun than I can ever remember having at one time. ‘maybe its because I have never been in a relationship before.’ I thought.

“Okay Spike. I am absolutely beat. I think that it is about time we turned in.” Applejack said.

“Okay AJ. I’m a little tired too. But we still have to pack for the trip tomorrow.” I told her.

“I know. We’ll have to do that when we get back to my house.” Applejack said.
“Okay. Do you need help packing AJ? Twilight usually has me pack everything during trips.” I told her.

“Sure, if ya wanna.” Applejack said. So we started walking back to Sweet Apple Acers.

“Applejack,” I said, “I don’t think I have had this much fun in my entire life. And we weren’t even doing anything that would be remotely fun to anypony. We’re just walking, and that in itself is fun, especially since I’m with you.” I told her.

“Same here Spike. I don’t think I have ever had fun just talking to somepony. But there’s a first time for everything.” She said.

“I love you Applejack.” I told her.

“I love you too Spike.” She said.

“Wait, AJ, were technically in the woods right?” I asked Applejack.

“Well, yea I guess. There’s trees, but there are a lot of fields too. Why do you ask?” Applejack said.

“Well, aren’t we in danger from Timberwolves out here?” I asked nervously looking around.

“Na Spike. Not enough trees for them to hide in. They prefer the Everfree Forest.” She said.

“Okay. That’s good.” I said to her.

“Well I would have never suggested the walk if we would be in danger from Timberwolves.” Applejack said.

“How often do you ever see a Timberwolf? Like, do they ever leave the Everfree forest?” I asked her.

“Not really, I mean, they will leave if they see somepony, but usually they like to stay hidden. I don’t really know how may times I have seen a Timberwolf. Not that may times. Four, maybe even five times in my whole life.” Applejack said.

“Is it possible to actually get rid of a Timberwolf? Like defeat it so it doesn’t come back?” I asked her.

“I’m not aware of any methods. Timberwolves are very magical creatures Spike. When they break apart, they just put themselves back together, giving you like a minute or so to get some distance from one. That is usually enough time to get far enough away that the Timberwolf wont chase you anymore.” Applejack said.

“Your starting to sound like Twilight, Applejack.” I said with a laugh. “Don’t tell me you’re an egghead too!”

“I am not Spike!” AJ said with a laugh, pushing me playfully away from her. I laughed and pushed her back, which resulted in a pushing fight between the two of us. “Truce! Truce!” Applejack finally said, putting her hoofs in the air in a sign of defeat. I laughed and we stopped. I put an arm around her and continued walking. We could see the edge of the tree line a few hundred meters away. “Race ya!” Applejack yelled and took off running towards her home.

*****

I ran as fast as I could away from Spike, But Spike was barley lagging behind me by the time I got to my house. I collapsed to the ground breathing hard, while Spike sat by a tree trying to catch his breath. “Good race AJ.” Spike said.

“Yea.” Was all I managed to say. Finally we had managed to catch our breaths and I stood up. Spike did the same. Okay sugarcube, we’d better get ready for tomorrow.” I said.

“Okay AJ.” He answered. We walked up to her room and we started packing. I normally pack lightly, and I had already packed everything I would need.

“Well ah don’t need much Spike. Could you get me my saddlebag from my closet?” She asked as she grabbed some clothes from her drawer.

“Sure AJ.” I said. I walked to her closet and got her bag. I brought it to her and she threw her clothes into it.
*****
“Alright Spike. That’s about everything I’ll need. Thanks.” She said, giving me a kiss. I blushed. She took her bag and put it by her door. “Alright Spike. I’m beat. We’d better hit the hay.”

“Okay Applejack.” I said to her. We climbed into bed and she turned the light off. I cuddled up to her, but suddenly she pulled me on top of her. The moon gave enough light so that I could see her. I looked into her eyes and she said,

“I love ya Spike.”

“I love you to Applejack.” I told her. I kissed her passionately, feeling her put her hooves around me. We kissed for a while, breaking apart to tell each other that we loved each other. Finally, Applejack asked,

“How long have you had a crush on Rarity?”

“Ever since I came to Ponyville.” I told her.

“Do you still like her?” She asked.

“I…I don’t know AJ. I mean, she’s my friend, and I still like her, but the difference between you and her is the fact that I love you.” I told Applejack.

“Aw Spike…” she said, but I interrupted her with a kiss. She kissed me back. When we broke apart, I snuggled up with her, we talked for a while until we fell asleep.

*****

In the morning I awoke to find Spike still on top of me sleeping soundly. I put my hooves around him, as they must have fallen off him during the night. I held him close to me, listening to his breathing. I must have laid there for maybe 45 minutes watching him, until he finally woke up groggily. “Howdy there Spike.” I said to him. Startled, he fell off me and onto the floor, which made me laugh.

“Jeeze Applejack! Don’t do that! You startled me.” He said, which made me laugh even harder.

“It’s not funny…” He said.

“Okay! Okay! Your right, sorry.” I said, trying not to laugh. Spike grinned at me.

“Okay, I guess it was somewhat funny.” He said, and I laughed. He joined in.

“Applejack?” Applebloom asked, walking through my door. “Big Mac says breakfast is ready.

“Okay. Oh Applebloom, could you get Big Mac for a minute? I need to tell him something.” I told her.

“Okay.” Applebloom said, and she walked out of the room. A few moments later Big Mackintosh walked into my room.

“You wanted me?” Big Mac said.

“Yes. Big Mac, I’m going to be gone for a while…” And then I told Big Mac about Discords return. His reaction when he found out was just about the way I thought it would be. “So could you watch Applebloom for me?” I asked him.

“Eeyup.” Big Mackintosh said.

“Okay Spike. We’d better eat quick so we can get to the train station before 10:00.” I told him. We quickly ate some oatmeal that Big Mackintosh made. We grabbed our things and departed. We had maybe an hour until the train arrives, and it takes about 45 minutes to get there, so we were able to walk.

“Applejack, what are we going to do? Without the Elements of harmony, we can’t defeat Discord.” Spike said.

“Ah know Spike. Twilights smart, maybe she’ll know what to do.” I said.

“APPLEJACK! Your smart! So don’t say your not.”

I smiled and said. “I meant book smart Spike, and she knows practically everything. I only know how to farm. If it weren’t for my element, I would be of no use to her.”

“Come on Applejack. Even if you didn’t have one of the Elements, your still useful. Your helpful and you DO know things that would help us! Your strong, your…”

“Okay Spike I get your point.” I told him. We passed Sugar Cube Corner, and Suddenly Pinkie Pie bounded out of nowhere and tackled me.

“Ohboyoboyoboy!WeregoingtotheCrystalEmpire!!!!” Pinkie Pie said and rocketed away from us towards the train station.

Spike fell over laughing and I stood up and dusted myself off. “That’s what you get for laughing at me!” Spike gasped through his laughs.

“Ha Ha. Very funny Spike.” I said but a smile crossed my face. “Come on Spike. We’d better get to the train station.” I told him. We walked for a while and talked about what we would do when we get to the Crystal Empire.

“Applejack, would it matter if anypony in the Empire knows about our relationship? I…I mean, its not like they would be able to tell any pony in Ponyville” Spike said.

“No. I don’t really care.” I said.

“Okay AJ.” Spike said. Finally we arrived at the train station. Most of our pony friends were there. Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy with her rabbit Angle, Twilight, Rainbow Dash, and SCOOTALOO!

“Um, Rainbow Dash, can I speak with you?” I asked.

“Sure.” She said. When we were out of range from the other ponies, I asked

“Why is Scootaloo here!”

“Well, I was sort of packing and Scootaloo showed up, and refused to leave me alone until I told her where I was going. When I told her, she begged me to take her along. Man, Scootaloo is the best thing to a sister that I have! How could I say no? So I said yes. I…I’m sorry AJ. I didn’t know you’d be upset about it.” She said.

“The only reason I’m upset is because this is Scootaloo were talking about! She’s way to little to be going! Was Twilight okay with this?” I asked.

“Well, she said she was my responsibility and I don’t mind watching her…” She said.

“Well, you have to tell her to go home.” Applejack said.

“APPLEJACK! This isn’t your call to make! If Scootaloo wants to go, then let her. I promise she wont get in the way! I swear!” She said.

“Its to dangerous for her to go Dashie! Do you not care for her safety?” I asked.

“Of course I do! If we go out to do something dangerous, then Scootaloo would stay in the castle or at least, inside the Crystal Empire.” She said.

“Okay then, who will watch her?” I asked

“Scootaloo is more than capable of watching herself. And if somepony has to watch her, Shinning Armor or Cadence will watch her.” He said.

“Oh, so you can vouch for the Princess and her husband than can you? I said.

“Well…no, not really…” She said.

“Well then tell her to go home Rainbow. Now!” She said. Rainbow looked at Spike helplessly and he said,

“Come on Applejack. Scootaloo wont get into trouble.”

“Oh come on! Don’t make me be the unreasonable one here Spike!” I said.

“Please AJ, Scootaloo will be fine.” She said. I threw my hands in the air and said

“Fine! But I swear Rainbow Dash, if she gets hurt, I’ll never forgive you for it.” I said and walked away. Rainbow Dash looked at Spike and he said

“She’ll come around. She always does. Believe me, she’s been mad before, but she’ll get over it.”

“I hope your right Spike.” She said and walked back towards the train station along with him.

*****
Five minutes later the train arrived. “You ready Scootaloo? I asked.

“Yes!” She said excitedly. ‘I can’t believe Rainbow Dash is letting me go with her!’ Scootaloo thought happily.
We found our seats and we sat down. “So what are we going to do there Rainbow Dash? Scootaloo asked.

“Well, I think we wont have to do anything save-the-world-related on the first day. So we’ll probably sight see. Since you have never been to the Crystal Empire I though I could show you around.” I told her.

“Okay. That would be great!” Scootaloo said. As the train got underway, conversations broke out between the ponies. Twilight opened a book and hid behind it, occasionally giving me sideways glares. She was just as opposed of Scootaloo going is Applejack was. ‘Why couldn’t they understand I can take care of her!’ I thought angrily. ‘Nopony trusts me! Just because I’m a daredevil doesn’t mean that I cant be trusted with something important such as someponys life!’ Well who needs em! I’ll prove to them all I can care for Scootaloo!’

After several grueling hours on the train, we finally arrived at The Frozen North. Shinning Armor was there to great us. “Come on!” He yelled through the sound of the blizzard raging. “It’ll get dark soon, and when its dark, it gets colder.” Shinning Armor said. We followed him for half an hour until we finally saw the gates to The Crystal Empire.

Once we entered the protective shield, it was instantaneously warmer. “Wow.” Scootaloo said. “This place is awesome.”

“Pretty cool isn’t is?” I told her.

“I’ll say.” Scootaloo said. We followed Shinning Armor up to the castle. We entered and met Cadence at the entrance. Twilight ran up to her and they both sang

“Sunshine; Sunshine! Ladybugs Awake! Clap your Hooves And Do A Little Shake!” The two shared a laugh.

“Twilight. Its great to see you again.” Cadence said.

“Same to you Cadence. When was the last time we met? Your wedding wasn’t it?” Twilight asked.

“Yes, I believe it was. So this will be like the third time you’ve saved our Empire.” Cadence said.

“Yea Twili, you really need to visit us without lives on the line.” Shinning Armor said.

“Now if you all will follow me I will lead you all to your suits.” Cadence said.

We followed her through the castle until she led us to the guest section of the castle. “There is enough room for you all to each have your own personal room.” Cadence said. We each picked out a room, Spike following Applejack into theirs. We put our things onto our beds and went back into the hall. “Now you guys can go where ever you want. I’m sure Princess Celestia wont mind if you don’t search for the Elements on your first day here.” Cadence said.

After doing so, we all split up. Twilight to the library, Fluttershy wanted to find some animals, Pinkie Pie wanted some cupcakes, Applejack and Spike wandered off to be alone, Rarity stayed in her room to make a dress while Scootaloo and I wandered around the Empire. I showed her the shops and showed her some of the things the Crystal Ponies liked to do. For lunch, we ate some of the Crystal Empire food. Finally, I showed her The Crystal Heart. As we walked, I retold how Spike had saved The Empire.

“And then Shinning Armor threw his wife and she caught The Crystal Heart and Spike and flew back down. She threw The Heart to where it goes and then the Crystal Ponies used it against Sombra and defeated him.” I told Scootaloo.
“Wow. That’s awesome.” Scootaloo said, clearly impressed.

“Yea. It was pretty awesome.” I told her. “Especially the way King Sombra and his crystals disintegrated when the powers of The Crystal Heart were used against him.”

“So what do we do now?” Scootaloo asked, still looking at The Crystal Heart.

“Um…. I don’t know Scoo. I guess when you think about it, there isn’t much for a filly to do in The Crystal Empire.” I told her.

“Yea, your right. I guess being absent for 1,000 years; they don’t really know what fun is. Like when Nightmare Moon was returned to Princess Luna. She didn’t know what fun was because she was banished to the moon for eternity.” I told her.

“But Luna escaped though. Or did Princess Celestia let her return?” Scootaloo asked.

“Well yes, she escaped on the longest day of the thousandth year on the summer solstice. But we defeated her and returned her to her normal self. She isn’t evil anymore.” I told Scootaloo.

“Well I know that. But you’re saying that NOPONY stayed awake during the night?” Scootaloo asked.

“Well, if anypony DID, Luna sure didn’t know about it, or wanted other ponies to enjoy her nights.” I told Scootaloo.

“But don’t ponies enjoy her nights now? Like I see ponies all the time outside at night. Pinkie Pie throws parties at night too.” Scootaloo said.

“Well, yea now ponies realize how awesome her nights are so they stay out at night.” I told her. We finally reached the Crystal Palace again.

“So what now?” Scootaloo asked.

“Meh, I don’t know why not relax for a bit? Were going to be pretty busy tomorrow searching for Discord and besides, there isn’t really much to do in The Crystal Empire. They have been gone for over 1,000 years now so they don’t have much on the knowledge of fun for fillies. It’s like being in the olden days.” I told her.

“Well okay. I’ll leave you to relax for a while. Maybe ill go talk to Twilight for a while.” Scootaloo said. Scootaloo then flew off in the direction of the Library.

*****

Twilight Sparkle was in Heaven. Surrounded by literally billions of books, she hadn’t remembered the last time she had been this happy. Twilight was most at home in a library, much like Vinyl Scratch was at home behind her turntable. At the moment, the Lavender Unicorn was at a long table with several dozen books opened to important places, along with a large pile of un-used scrolls and quills and inkbottles. So far, Twilight had written a few hundred pages on spells and information of the Elements of Harmony, defeating enemies and taking over entire Empires.
One question was burning in her mind. ‘How does the Crystal Empire know so much about The Elements of Harmony?’ She had several hypothesizes on this, the most reasonable being the books were imported to the Library by Princess Celestia. Or maybe Princess Luna put them here. ‘Yea, that was it. Luna had been up here earlier for some unknown reason, maybe she was bringing books about the outside world into The Empire.’ Twilight thought.
The Library was HUGE! The biggest she had ever seen. But she thought something was missing. Maybe it was the life of the other library’s she had been to. This one seemed cold and desolate. Something not sought after and used much. Just a place to store information. Information that, if not written down or were lost, would take centuries to re-attain. Within this library was a plethora of information required to re-catch Discord and find The Elements of Harmony.

It was hard, tedious work that for some reason she didn’t want to do. For some reason, she wanted to abandon her research and go outside. But she as a scholar pony at heart and she knew that. She had to get this done. It was imperative for their search. “Um…Twilight…do you need some help?” suddenly a voice punctuated the soundless air, which startled her, spilling an ink bottle all over her parchment she was writing on. The pony that had interrupted her was none other than Scootaloo.

“Look what you made me do!” Twilight said, glaring at the filly Pegasus. Scootaloo shrank back from her, tears welding up in her eyes and spilling down her cheeks. Twilight suddenly felt sorry for her outburst at the little orange filly. She hadn’t really meant to make her ruin her parchment. She was just a filly after all. And even more importantly, she couldn’t deny the fact she had abandoned her hero, Rainbow Dash, to come and see Twilight. And she had wanted the company of a friend and had been reminiscing about the outdoors and was feeling very lonely.
“I…I’m sorry Scootaloo. I didn’t mean to snap at you. Its just that this is very tiring work and the formulas…” she gestured to a bit of parchment not obscured my the black ink which where a very complex spell had been partially written. “… Are very complicated and takes a lot of time to copy down. If I write an error, grammatical or not, it could completely mess up the spell and cause a very dangerous backfire.” Twilight said.

“It…its okay.” I told her. Twilight smiled at me and rustled my purple mane. She then pulled a chair over from another table with her magic and patted it with her hoof. I sat down beside her. “S…so what do you want me to do.” I asked nervously.

“Well, I don’t think there is much for a filly to do. This is very complex magic. And besides, there isn’t a single Pegasus that knows a thing about magic, as there isn’t a single Unicorn that knows a thing about flying.”

“Yea I guess your right.” I said glumly, looking down.

“Come on Scootaloo. Is something wrong?” she asked.

“Its just…Its just I’ve never been outside Ponyville before and I really miss my friends and I just don’t know what to do. Rainbow Dash seems a little upset about something and I think that I am upsetting her because she told me to go play. I want to impress her but I’m just a filly. There isn’t anything that I could do that would impress her, because she’s the best at everything.” I told Twilight glumly.

“Well of course you can. You think that she doesn’t think very highly of you, but that is just the opposite. She told me she thinks that you’re the closest thing to a sister she has ever known.” Twilight said.

My ears perked up at this new bit of information. “She…she does?” I asked.

“Well of course she does. You means a lot to her, whether she wants to admit it to anypony or not.” Twilight Sparkle said. I had always wanted to impress the fastest flier in Equestria, but this was even better! Rainbow Dash! Thought of ME as a sister! Twilight smiled at me. “Well listen, I really have to get back to my work. These spells wont write themselves you know!” Twilight said.

“O okay.” I said glumly. I stood up, but Twilight stopped me.

“I’m sure there is a lot for a filly to do here. Maybe Fluttershy could use some company. She’s probably out searching for some animals to befriend. Hopefully it goes better for her that at The Galla.” Twilight Sparkle said.

“Yea hopefully.” I told her. I then left in search of Fluttershy.

*****
Fluttershy was in Heaven. She was surrounded by hundreds of animals that she had managed to befriend. Polar bears, Bagnold Tigers, Lions, several Phoenixes’ Monkeys, a Chupacabra and a Griffon were jus a few of the animals she had met. At the moment, she was petting a kitten while a lion rested his majestic head on her lap. She wasn’t talking, just lost in her thoughts. She couldn’t stop thinking about Discord. She thought she had befriended him. ‘How…NO why…did he decide to become evil again?’ She thought angrily. Discord filled a place in her heart that none of her other friends could ever do. His humor could be funny and he liked to play tricks on ponies.
‘Well duh.’ Fluttershy thought. ‘He’s Discord; the master of chaos.’ But that still didn’t explain why he would be tearing apart The Frozen North. She would give him a stern talking to when she found him. She had resolved. She had hung out with Discord after his magic for Celestia had been finished. She had let him have free reign in her home, but Discord had been polite and asked before causing chaos. Most of the time she said yes. Like once she let him put the house in the air upside down for the day. And another time Applejack let him cause a flood in one of her fields so the seven of them could go ice-skating again for a while, and he had returned her field to normal when they had finished.
Fluttershy loved Discord, but in a friendly way. Sure she had mixed feelings for him, but she hardly ever felt the want for him to be her special somepony. ‘After all, she was a Pegasus and Discord was…well…he was whatever Discord was. Not that there would be anything wrong with a relationship between the two of them. After all Spike and Applejack…’ She let the thought hang. ‘Well, if anything were to happen between the two of them, surly her friends would be happy for them. Not that anything would ever happen.’ She thought. Suddenly a voice pierced the air that had been filled with the sounds of her animal pals, which jarred her from her thoughts.
“There you are Fluttershy!” Scootaloo said. The sound of her voice scared the kitten away and a few other animals as well. The Lion opened his eyes and lazily lifted his head around to look for the source of the voice. When he saw Scootaloo flying fast towards Fluttershy, He jumped up quickly and growled angrily at her, protecting Fluttershy from potential harm. Scootaloo abruptly stopped and a look of fear crossed her face.
I quickly moved in from of him and said, “There there now…it’s okay Mr. Lion. She’s a friend…she’s a friend. I told him. He calmed down, but watched Scootaloo warily. Scootaloo just stood still; apparent that she was torn apart on whether she should just run away in fear, or brave through this whole ordeal and walked over to me. But in the end, I walked over to her, the Lion glaring at Scootaloo.
“S…sorry about that.” I told her.

“Its fine.” Scootaloo said nervously, still eyeing the circling lion; hate radiating out of his eyes.

“You just scared him and he’s really protective.” I told her. “Why are you here? I thought you would hang out with Rainbow Dash the whole day?” I asked her.

“No. She wanted to relax for awhile so I left her to some peace and she said to find Twilight but she was busy writing scrolls and I messed up her work and she was mad at me so she told me to find you.” Scootaloo said.

“What!” I yelled, startling both the lion and Scootaloo. The lion nearly attacked Scootaloo if I hadn’t stopped him in time. I tend to get upset if somepony hurts a filly’s feelings. “Do I have to talk to Twili?” I asked Scootaloo.

“N…no its fine.” Scootaloo said nervously.

“Well if you need me to I can talk to her.” I told Scootaloo.

“No its fine.” Scootaloo said.

“Well if you’re sure…” I said.

“Well what do I do?” Scootaloo asked.

“Well…um…I don’t know…I mean…the animals…” I gestured. I knew what she was asking. She wanted to hang out with me. But I really wanted to be with my new animal friends but at the same time I liked Scootaloo and didn’t want to let her down.

“O…okay.” Scootaloo said sadly.

“W…wait. Maybe we could…um…do something…maybe find some animals you could cope with…nothing big like these…Not that you couldn’t handle them…its just…um…” I let my sentence hang. But Scootaloo perked up and agreed. So I led Scootaloo to the woods nearby.
We walked through them, talking about animal care and befriending. Finally we came across an Ahuizotl, which is a cross between a dog and a monkey. It seemed easy enough to befriend, although they can have a tendency to attack ponies. This one was young maybe three years, easy enough for Scootaloo to befriend.

“O…okay Scootaloo. Do you want to befriend him…err…her...?” I asked.

“Yes!” Said an eager Scootaloo.

“O…okay. So what you want to do is…um…walk slowly towards him…err…her…err…yea like that.” I told Scootaloo. “N…now offer him…uh…her…? your hoof. Let him…um…her sniff it. Now Ahuizotl’s might lick your hoof or nibble it…but that’s okay. If he or she starts getting all drooly then ill step in because that means she…or he…is hungry.” I told her. Scootaloo seemed worried, but I reassured her. “It’ll be fine. Don’t worry.” I told her.

The Ahuizotl smelled her hoof and then nuzzled it. “D…did it work?” Scootaloo asked.

“Y…yea I think so. The Ahuizotl made a low growl sound that indicated it was happy.
So after a few hours of playing with him (we later found out) we returned to The Crystal Empire, the Ahuizotl bounding on a chatting Scootaloo’s heals. Scootaloo had decided to name the Ahuizotl Necrofear, because of the way it seemed to have a strange fascination with Crystals, black ones to be exact. Even though king Sombra had been defeated, crystals can still be black, although they will just be normal crystals. We entered the Castle and Scootaloo went into her room with Necrofear following. As I walked to my room, Cadence appeared and walked up to me.

“Was that an Ahuizotl?” Cadence asked worriedly.

“Y…yes, but Scootaloo befriended him. He wont hurt a fly, but he’s a little overprotective.” I told Cadence. “His name is Necrofear, because of his fascination with black crystals.” I added.

“Hmm. Interesting.” Cadence said thoughtfully. “Well, make sure he stays out of trouble. Ahuizotl’s have been known to eat ponies, especially young fillies like Scootaloo.” Cadence said. “The last thing I need is an Ahuizotl running around my palace with a thirst for pony blood.”

“His name is Necrofear. And he’ll be fine. He’s wont know to eat any ponies.” I said. I always did get defensive when protecting animals.

“Okay Fluttershy but still, I would keep an eye on him anyhow. I know how good you are with animals so I trust you when you say he’ll be okay.” Cadence said. She then walked away from me. After all, she probably had important business to attend to.

*****
Pinkie Pie was in Heaven. She was throwing a party for some ponies in The Crystal Empire. There were several dozen ponies in attendance and she had already befriended them all. She was bouncing around chasing some fillies and having some fun when outside when she saw a discouraged Fluttershy leave the castle. The happiness instantly deflated out of her and her mane became straight and for a few moments she stopped, but suddenly her mane popped back up and she felt happy again and she bounced over to Fluttershy.

“Whatcha doin?” I asked.

“Nothing.” She said, kicking a pebble down the road.

“Is something the matter?” I asked.

“N…no I’m fine Pinkie. Go have fun.” She said.

“Come on Fluttershy. You know its no fun when somepony is feeling sad and left out. Come join the party and tell gold ol’ Pinkie Pie what’s the matter.” I told her.

“Look Pinkie, I appreciate the offer, but I need to be alone right now okay?” Fluttershy said.

“Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeease?” I asked.

“Oh…well…if you insist…” Fluttershy said.

“Yayyyyyyy!” I said and took her by the hoof and darted back over to the party.

“S…so what do you want me to do?” Fluttershy asked politely.

“It’s a party silly! You do whatever at a party. Dance, drink punch…oh by the way food and drinks are over there and…well anyways you dance, eat food, play games, and most importantly HAVE FUN!” I said, yelling the last part. I jumped into the air and rocketed away back to the fillies I was chasing. With a shriek of joy they ran away and I chased them. Fluttershy sighed and tried to enjoy the party.

After several minutes of chasing, I finally stopped and flopped into a chair beside Fluttershy and panted out;

“So…what…was…bugging…you…earlier…Fluttershy…”
N…nothing Pinkie.” She said, avoiding my eyes. But I knew something was up. After all, my Pinkie Sense was tingling.

“Fluttersshyyy? What’s the matter?” I asked.

“I…I’ve just got a lot on my plate right now Pinkie. I thought Discord was our friend.” She said.

“Well, he is! Maybe he’s just mulling things over. Something must have happened with him. Maybe he’s upset. Nopony but us came to his birthday party four months ago. We are the only ponies who ever talk to him. Maybe he’s upset that nopony likes him but us?” I said.

“M…maybe…” Fluttershy said. Fluttershy then told me of the deal with Necrofear and Cadences reaction.

“Well that was a little un-called for.” I said.

“She didn’t seem to even care what I said. She just judged him for what he looks like…not for what’s on the inside…not for what counts…” Fluttershy said sadly, hanging her head. I hugged Fluttershy and said,

“Well it will be okay Flutters. Cadence was probably busy and had something on her mind. That’s all. Now come on. Lets enjoy the party.” I said, pulling a better feeling Fluttershy to her feet.

*****
Rarity was in Heaven. Ever since she arrived at The Crystal Empire she has had a trickle of ideas for her dress shop, which soon turned into a steady stream, which now was a raging river. She was furiously drawing everything that was coming to her mind. “Oh Opalescence, these dresses will be just wonderful!” She said to her cat, which meowed in happy agreement. Rarity finished drawing yet another dress and moved on to making it. When it was finished she said, "Now we just need to find The Princess so we can thank her properly for letting us use her Castle." Her cat meowed in agreement.

They left her room and walked down the hall to Cadences room. On the way they bumped into Twilight.

"Oh hey Twilight. What are you up to?" I asked

"I've been practicing spells for when we confront Discord." She answered. "How about you?"

"Well I've made this splendid dress for Cadence for letting us stay in her Castle. I was just about to give it to her." I said.

"Thats cool. Listen, I'm going to get something to eat; you wanna join me?" She asked.

"Sure. just let me set her dress on her bed and leave a note." I said. I entered the room and laid the dress and not on Cadences bed. I left the room and closed the door. If i would have stayed longer i would have noticed a dark, jet black pony clad in regalia appear from the shadows. The long~lost King picked up the note, read it, and growled. He smashed the note to the floor and said to himself. "So...the Princess has those confounded ponies back into her empire. Doubtless looking for Discord. Well i won't let that happen. FEBREUS!" he yelled. Suddenly a dark, black cloud rocked through the celling and smashed into the floor, the smoke rolling away, revealing a skeletal pony, clad in rusty black and sliver armor. The pony wielded a rusty Pole~Arm, a weapon he was no doubt buried in during the Great Equestrian War in 795.

"You called, my King." He said with a gravely voice.

"Yes. Those ponies are back in MY empire. Make sure Discord is properly restrained, and add those traps i was debating about.

"yes, my Lord." He said. He turned back into smoke and rocketed through the celling, leaving not a single mark.

Sombra smiled.

Author's Note

So now the stories coming together. What do you guys think about it so far? leave your thoughts and comments below. (and yes, Sombra and his guards can teleport like Lord Voldemort and his Death Eaters)

Chapter Three

"Now that we've all eaten and our stomach's are full, let us commence forth to our sleeping quarters" said Rainbow Dash. Everypony laughed.

"That is NOT how I talk!" hoffed a blushing Twilight.

"Egghead." Rainbow Dash commented.

"I'll take that coming from the pony who likes to read." I said

"It's just one series." Rainbow Dash said

"Still. It's reading." I said

"What are you laughing at Spike?" Rainbow Dash said. Everypony stopped laughing and looked at her. "I dare you to drink that whole bottle of Cider. I wanna see how red your face can get!" Everypony laughed.

"Okay, okay. It's getting really late and it's going to be a big day tomorrow, so we really should get to bed." Cadence said. "Before some pony drinks until they pass out." She looked at Rainbow Dash.

"What?" She said. "I can handle some Cider." She said.

"I know Rainbow, but we all need to get up early tomorrow. Im going to try and help you as much as I can, along with Princess Luna."

"Oh ok." Rainbow Dash said, draining the last of the Hard Cider from the bottle and standing up a little wobbly. We all went to our rooms, Spike following Applejack to their room. I smiled at them. 'At last Spike got over Rarity.' I thought to myself. I went to my room and slept.

*****
"M....My Lord, it is done." Febreus said.

"Good, good." Sombra said. "The traps are secure, I presume?"

"Y...yes, My Lord." Febreus said.

"Good. Now, is The Army ready?"

"Y...yes, My Lord."

"Okay. You may go now." Sombra said. Febreus left the room. Next entered another pony. "Yes... it is finally here." Sombra said, accepting the package. He opened the book contained within. He read the first spell inscribed within. He turned to his skeletal pony. He closed his eyes and concentrated. Suddenly the skeletal pony exploded into bones. "What?" Sombra said. "Hmm. Ahh, I see wrong incantation." PELVATOR! Another pony entered the rom. This ones bones were bleached white, most of the ribs, however, were broken, cracked, or missing entirely.

"The Dark Lord called for me?" He said, striding up to King Sombra.

"Yes. I am in need of a spy. And you suffice."

"Well, I think they won't allow a Skeletal pony within Your empire." He said.

"Well, The General found this within the Library, and it contains quite an interesting spell that I want to test out." Sombra said.

"Well lets do in then, My Lord." He said. Sombra concentrated on the spell. a black glow erupted on Sombras horn. Suddenly, a black laser shot out at Pelvator and he was enveloped in a black mushroom cloud. When the cloud cleared, a pearly white pegasus was standing. He had a black and purple striped mane, with a black crystal as his Cutie Mark.

"Perfect." Purred Sombra. "Now, you new name is Perseuse. If anypony asks, you were born in Cloudsdale. Your parents names are Dungeon and Grey Flower. You are visiting the Empire on vacation. your wife is in Cloudsdale, along with your son Crayon.

"Crayon? My Lord?"

"Yes. He's a filly. Its been quite some time during my… uh…extended vacation since i've been in my empire. Do you got any other names?"

"No My Lord."

"Then go. I expect to here from you every night!" Sombra yelled as Perseuse left his presence.

*****
The next morning everypony went to the lunch area. "Ughh ... Don't ever, ever let me drink again" Spike groaned as he sat down, his head in his claws. Everypony laughed. Twilight used her telekinesis to open a refrigerator door and bring out a carton of Orange Juice and 8 glasses.

"Orange Juice will help with the hangover." Twilight said as she pored everyone a glass. Rainbow Dash looked at her glass, then to the carton. Then she took the carton and chugged the rest of its contents down.

"Uggh... I still don't feel any better than before." She said, coughing. 'Maybe we should wait another day until we feel better."

"NO!" Twilight shouted. "Princess Celestia is counting on us to find Discord and return him to stone! We can't give up on her now!"

"Um...Twili...Ah don't think were giving up on her, Rainbow is just saying to wait until were feeling better." I told her.

"I know, but I'm not sure if we can afford to wait" Twilight said.

"Ah know that Sugarcube, but everypony's feeling a little under the weather, an..."

"Under the weather is an understatement!" Rainbow Dash hollered from the bathroom.

"As I was saying, just give everypony some time to feel better, at least until the afternoon." I told her.

"Fine! But if Equestria is torn apart because of Discord, its on your hands!

"HANDS! Did somepony say hands?!?!?" Lyra said, suddenly appearing and running into the room. "Where?!"

"No Lyra. There are no hands, or humans, here. It was a figurative of speech." Twilight said.

"Oh." Lyra said, hanging her head sadly and slowly walking out of the room.

"Sorry Lyra!" Twilight hollered.

"You know, sometimes I think that Lyra is the fastest in all of Equestria." Spike said.

"SHUT UP SPIKE!" Rainbow Dash hollered from the bathroom, throwing up again. Everypony laughed.

*****
Later that day everypony was aroused from their slumber by Twilight. "Mfguh. Leeme lone Twilgiht" Rainbow Dash said when Twilight tried to wake her up. "Its noon-thirty. Leme sleep." With a sigh, Twilight left the room and came back with a long pole with a prong on the end. Twilight held the red button in and carefully touched Rainbow Dash with it. "YEOUCH!" Rainbow Dash hollered. "Im up! Im up!" She said, rubbing her flank where the cattle prod touched her. "What was that for?" She asked.

"Well, no pony would get up, so I asked Cadence for help and she gave me this." She said. Rainbow Dash looked at the mark the cattle prod made in the mirror.

"Now it looks like I have two cutie marks." Rainbow Dash said.

"It's the same with everypony else, besides Scootaloo. she was the only pony that got up when I woke her up." Twilight said as she left the room.

Now that everypony was awake (and a little worse for wear) we were ready to search for Discord. "Okay" Twilight said, laying out a map on a table. "Ive split this area into grids. We'll all split up into groups of two to search. Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo, you two search this area. Spike and Applejack, you two go up this way. I already searched this area earlier today. So stay away from there." She said, gesturing each area with a hoof. "Pinkie Pie and Rarity, you two search that area. And Fluttershy, you go with me." Twilight finished.

"Well, if Discord followed this river, he could end up miles from here." Rainbow Dash said, tracing it with her cyan hoof. "Or he could be hiding out in any of these abandoned villages." She said, gesturing to several of the arguer ones. "All of them have some sort of integrate caverns beneath."

"I know." Twilight said.

"What about the caverns under The Empire?" Rarity asked.

"We thought of that. So Cadence cast a spell, preventing him to enter any of the openings within. They've also sent in a search team. He's not there." Twilight said. "Im guessing we have maybe seven hours of daylight at most, so we'll meat back here as soon as it starts to get dark."

"Well, what are we doing standing around then? Were wasting light! Lets get a move on. Come on Scoots. Lets go." Rainbow Dash said. The three of them left (counting Necrofear of course) Everypony split up, looking for Discord.

*****
"Oh...oh my... hello little squirrel. How are you doing? Would you like an acorn?" Fluttershy asked. I face hoofed myself. This was like the hundredth squirrel she was talking to, and we weren't even 100 meters from The Empire. In fact, I could still see The Crystal Empire through the trees.

"Fluttershy, come on! We can talk to animals later! We need to search for Discord!" I told her.

"But...but its a black squirrel! there really rare"*

"I know Fluttershy. But we need to go. Just take him with you then." I told her.

"Okay!" She said happily, letting the ninja~like squirrel climb up her forehoof, letting it come to rest on her shoulder, chittering happily, holding an acorn in its little paws.

Rolling my eyes, I continues walking through the forest, while Fluttershy cooed at her animal friend behind me. As I walked, I wondered how the other ponies were doing.

*****
"Pickle barrel kumquat! Pickle barrel kumquat! Pickle barrel kumquat! Pickle barrel kumquat! Come on Rarity, say it with me"

"Not now Pinkie Pie. Im a little busy right now..." She said, looking at her reflection in a small pond as she cleaned her mane a little with her hoof.

"Oh look a frog! Pinkie Pie said. "Wow look at the size of it! He's huge! Imma gonna get him." I said

"Um-hum you do that darling." Rarity said. So I ran and jumped into the pond, drenching everything, including Rarity, in black, disgusting pond water.

"AHHHHHHHHHHH!" Rarity yelled. I held up the big bullfrog up to show her.

"Wow lookie here Rarity! He's fat! Very, very fat! Imma gonna keep him as my pet. Croak Croak Crokey little froggie. Ha ha! it rhymed! Croak Croak Crokey little froggie! Well, he's not little, cuz he's a big un! But he's still my little froggy! Hey! He can help us catch Discord! He could eat him! nom nom nom! Wouldn't that be funny Rarity?" I asked her. "Rarity? Why are you covered in mud?" I asked her.

Rarity, meanwhile, was rolling in some clean grass, in an effort to try and clean her fur and mane. After several minutes, Rarity finally stood up, still covered in mud, sticks and leaves. "Rarity, you need to get cleaned up." I told her. I dropped the frog onto the ground who just sat there, looking dumb, staring at Rarity. Suddenly, his tongue shot out and plucked a bug from Rarity's mane.

"There are bugs in my mane?!" She said, horrified. I filled my party cannon with clean water, aimed it at Rarity, and fired it. Confetti and water hitting her, cleaning everything from her mane, but drenching her again.

"Ta Da!" I said to her. "Now your all cleaned up!" Rarity shook herself dry, picking confetti out of her mane.

"Lets just go." Rarity said.

"B...but what about my frog?" I asked as I, once again, held up the frog. My mane was deflated.

"Take it with, I really don't care." Rarity said, getting more annoyed by the minute.

"Yayyyyyyyyyy!" I said, my mane popping back up into its normal springy mess. I bounded past the pond, the frog tucked carefully in my saddlebag.

*****
Spike rode on my back as we walked through the woods. "So where do you think Discord would be at babe?" He asked.

"Am not really sure Spike. He could be anywhere. Heck, he might not even be in The Empire anymore. He could have left for Ponyville for all we know." I told him.

"Oh."

"Yup." We walked in silence for a while. I could tell something was wrong with him, but I wasn't sure what. "Is something wrong Sugarcube?" I asked, concerned.

"No.Its fine AJ." He said.

"Are you sure? You've been a little off since we got here." I said.

"I don't know AJ. Does it seem right?" He asked.

"Does what seem right?"

"Us. I mean, I'm a dragon, and your an Earth Pony... In fact, our kind went meant to mix... to be together. But yet... we are." He said.

"Of course its all right. Its Love. Princess Celestia understood. Are you nervous about what other ponies will think?" I asked him.

"No. I don't mind what they think, but i've just felt weird lately. I...Im not sure why." He said.

"Do you think that i'll like you less because of who you are?" Spike nodded and averted his eyes as he wiped back some tears. "Spike, I love you. Just because your a dragon won't change anything." I told him.

"Yes it will Applejack! How wouldn't it? Other ponies will view you differently because your dating a dragon!" He said.

"But I don't care Spike! Neither do our friends or any of the people that matter to either of us." I told him.

"But what would my parents think?" He asked.

"I thought you didn't know who they were?" I asked him.

"Well, remember that day I ran away from home to live with the dragons?" He asked

"Yea..." I said.

"Well, I found them and I've been writing to them whenever I can." He said.

"Why didn't you tell any pony about this?" I asked him.

"Because, I didn't want you to think I had a reason to leave you guys. Especially, now, you." He said.

"But what if you wanted to visit? You would have to tell then, right?" I asked him.

"Well, yea. But what would they think?" He asked, tears running down his face. "They would disown me." He said, looking away.

"What are you saying?" I asked, feeling tears running down my face as well.

"I dont know Applejack. I know that I love you and you mean a lot to me, but i just don't know what to do. You do love me, right?"

"Of course I do Spike! Why wouldn't I?"

"Because I'm a dragon." he sad glumly, looking away. He hopped off my back and kicked a pebble. " I mean, the only reason Celestia didn't say anything is because she wants US to do her job. Why else would she be okay with it?"

"Because its love!" I told him. I took his head in both of my hoofs, forcing him to look at me. "Love is a beautiful and amazing thing! It allows two ponies to come together and get to know each other!" I told him.

"But if there wasn't love...there wouldn't be hate either...or murder...or any of the other bad things in our world." Spike said.

"But thats just it! God gave us the ability to love, to have feelings. We have the capability of loving one another, but with that comes the ability to hate...to have feelings. Without feelings, we would be robots. God wanted us to have freedom and to have feelings. We can choose wether to love and heal feelings between to ponies. We can choose wether to miss-use our abilities as well, such as many ponies have in the past, and as they will in the future. Its up to you, to each and every individual pony, to fix that and to use what God gave us for good." I told him.

"But no pony will see it that way." Spike said. "Who would?"

"Who wouldn't! Why can't you see that Spike? I love you, wether or not any pony disagrees I don't care. I never asked them their opinion, and quite frankly, I don't care." I told him. He looked away. "If you don't want to be with me..." I said, feeling my eyes weld up with tears from the amount of feels I was experiencing "Just get it over with, Spike. Just tell me you don't feel the same way. Don't start sparing my feelings." I told him.

"Applejack..." Spike started to say, but I cut him off.

"It's a simple yes or no question Spike! Either you do...or you don't." I said.

"I do Applejack!" He said.

"Then whats the problem?" I asked.

"I don't know. I just feel depressed." Spike said. "Maybe its because of Rarity, I don't know."

"Do you still love her?" I asked him, slightly dreading the answer myself.

"A little, but I love you more AJ." He told me. I smiled at him. Spike leaned towards me and kissed me, putting his slightly shaking claws on my shoulders. When we broke apart, he smiled. Our relationship was saved and back in order.

*****
"So, if I were Discord, where would I hide?" I asked Scootaloo.

"Mmm...In a tree?" she said. "No no, in a house!"

"But what one?" I asked her. We were in one of the villages, one of the largest ones, but the only one with 'skyscrapers,' buildings that were maybe, at most, 20 stories tall. Some of them were burned out and destroyed. It looked exactly like it would if there was a zom-pony apocalypse. But, of course, I wouldn't mention that to Scoots, because she is afraid of zom-ponies. This city had been abandoned about 4 months ago, for reasons that I do not know. "Well, lets start searching then." I told her. Scootaloo buzzed off to a building and I went to a different one. I knew I should have stuck with her, being a filly and all, but I thought she could handle herself. After all, she had Necrofear with her. I slowly tried to open a door, but over the years the rust had gotten to the hinges. So I simply punched a hole into the door.

It didn't hurt, because of how soft the old rotting wood was, so it was quite easy to break into the room. I looked around. To my right was the kitchen, complete with cups of moldy coffee. There were maggots crawling in the food on the plates. I walked by the fridge to look out the window and threw up my breakfast. The smell coming from the fridge was extremely bad. I stumbled out of the room on wobbly legs. I slumped down on the couch to catch my breath. It was almost as if there WAS a zom-pony apocalypse, seeing as how it seems as if every pony walked out, just leaving everything in its place as if they would come back for it. There was an old shattered TV in the corner and some mice have made their home in the sofa opposite of me. They looked out of their hide-hole and looked at me inquisitively. Then they scampered back into their home.

When I felt less sickly I went back into the hall way and up the stairs. There were three rooms and a bathroom up here. The first bedroom was for the parents. They had a TV mounted to the celling. There was a baby crib in the corner, with one of those little mobile things above it. I went into the next room. There was a bunk-bed against the wall, with toy trucks and dinosaurs and legos littering the floor. The bathroom contained nothing interesting, just dust. I walked into the third room and looked around. It looked like an office or sorts. I spotted something that caught my eye. A Daring Do book. It was one of my favorites. The sixth one in the series called The Willows. I walked over to it and suddenly felt myself falling. I had fallen through the floor. I hit the ground hard, my head banging on the coffee table in the living room. But I was unharmed (besides my head), that is until I fell through the now weaker living room floor. This time when I hit the ground, I did not awake.

*****
I was having a ton of fun. I enjoyed going house to house searching for Discord. 'Cutie Mark Crusaders Search and Rescue!' I thought happily to myself. I bounded around, having a blast, when suddenly I tripped over a curb and banged my head on a fire hydrant, causing me to see white. I sat down, waiting for my vision to clear. Suddenly, I saw some pony in the road. The Unicorn pony walked up to me. "All you all right?" He asked. I scrambled away from him. "Hey, hey, don't be afraid. Im not gonna hurt you." Suddenly Necrofear ran to the pony making this weird sound, a whatduus kind of sound. He shot an arrow looking tongue by the pony, trying to figure out if he meant any harm.** Satisfied he meant no harm, he sat back on his hunches, watchful. "That is one excellent creature there. Quite useful. Now, lets go before anymore find us."

"W...what about Rainbow Dash?" I asked, scared.

"Oh, the cyan colored pony? Rainbow Mane? Cutie Mark is a cloud with a rainbow lightning bolt?" He asked.

"Yea!" I said.

"We have her, safe and sound. Found her while scavenging. Must have fallen maybe two stories down. Knocked out cold when we found her. Lucky to be alive I say. Some scrapes and bruises, but otherwise completely fine."

So I went with him. I followed him for 10 minutes. Part of my mind thought, 'I shouldn't go with him!' But another part of me said, 'He has Rainbow Dash! I must go with him to save her!' So I walked with the man. Finally, we got to a building. Two stories tall, it seemed like a building for storing supplies dropped off from ships. When I got inside, i found out I was right. They had moved the shipping crates to form towers and rooms. I followed the man into an area labeled 'infirmary' and found Rainbow Dash lying on the bed, reading a Daring Do novel.

"Rainbow Dash!" I shouted happily, jumping onto the bed and into Rainbow Dashes hooves.

"Hey squirt." She said, ruffing my mane up with her hoof. "What you been up to?"

"We didn't find Discord." I said sadly, averting my eyes from hers.

"Thats okay. Im sure we wouldn't have been able to find her on the first try. Maybe our friends have found a clue." She siad. "Now if you guys will excuse us," She said, closing her book, "We'd like to leave now."

"We cant let you do that." The Unicorn said. "Its getting dark out. There are guards out there."

"Guards?" Rainbow asked, confused.

"You dont know?" He asked.

"Know what?" RD asked.

"Well, somepony is talking over. We dont know who. There are skeletal guards who come out and search for ponies to take them away. Well get you back to where ever you came from in the morning." He said.

"Okay with me. Im not complaining. The foods great!" Rainbow Dash said, taking another bite from her half eaten vanilla pudding cup.

"Okay." I said. The ponies left us to get settled in for the night. I just hope the other ponies back at The Empire wouldn't worry to much about us. Knowing Twilight, it cant be good.

*****
"Where ARE they?" Twilight said, worried.

"Oh please Darling, there fine. Just a little late is all. They probably went to far out and its dark now. They're probably holed up in some old house until tomorrow."

"RARITY! Do you know what is out there? Creatures that aren't even in the Everfree forest! Things more dangerous than a Timberwolf!

"And...?" Rarity said.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! Come on Rarity! What is with you? There our friends! I KNEW we shouldn't have taken Scootaloo along with us! I just knew it! When i see RD again im gonna..."

"TWILIGHT...." I said. "There fine. dont worry so much. Besides, She has Rainbow Dash. And that...Thingy."

"Ah think Spike's right. We shouldn't worry so much. RD will take care of Scootaloo as well as Necrofear." Applejack said. "A've seen plenty worse things, and RD always prevails. Thats why her Element is Loyalty."

"But dont you see? Theres to much of a balance of good." Twilight said.

"What?" Applejack said.

"Remember Nightmare moon? There was peace and prosperity, to many good things, then Nightmare Moon returned to try to even out the good a little."

"A little? She almost caused eternal darkness! You know that im afraid of...uh...never mind." Spike said blushing. Twilight rolled her eyes and continued.

"We defeated Nightmare Moon and returned her to her good self, taking it off balance again. Then Discord, which was harder than Nightmare Moon, Then Sombra, Then Christalist, which was the worst of all. Each time, it gets harder and harder to defeat enemies, because theres an off-balance."

"I get it. Because of all the good thats happening, theres bad things that have to happen too, to even it out a little! Like making a cake! You got to even out the frosting and everything, or it tastes wired." Pinkie Pie said.

"Exactly! Which is why this is going to get worse and worse, until eventually, the evil wins, and will win for a while, years actually. Then balance will be restored and it will start all over again, years of prosperity, then a little evil here, a little there, slowly working up, harder and harder, until theres evil for a while, and then it will happen all over again!" Twilight said. "Dont you see, this is what will take us down. This is our... extinction of end." Twilight turned away from us, sitting down, her head in her hoofs. She turned back to us. "This is it. We're going to loose this one. We're done. The Elements of Harmony will be gone. Chaos will reign, and well live out the rest of our years in torment, praying for a quick and painless end."

"Celestia and Luna will help!" Spike said.

"Dont be stupid Spike. Remember how the Christalist defeated her? Sure she cant die, because as ling as the sun and moon exist, they cant die, or age, but they can sure be defeated." She said.

"Oh." Said Spike. "So were fighting a loosing battle?"

"Basically, yes. If what Celestia says is true, and its not only Discord, then we've probably lost. But if its just Discord, then theres a chance. We could persway him, and not a better pony to do that than his first true friend." We all turned to the shy, canary yellow pegasus, Fluttershy.

"Oh, I'm...I...I dont think I could. H...he might not listen..." Fluttershy said.

"Of course he will! He'll listen to the first pony that truly believed in him! Why wouldn't he?" Twilight asked.

"Oh well...i dont..." Both Rarity and Twilight started perswaying Fluttershy that her efforts were helping. I leaned in close to Applejack and whispered "Twilight will be at this for hours. Why dont we just go?"

"Okay Sugarcube." AJ said. We slipped away from the three, unnoticed and headed to our bedroom. We closed the door behind us, taking care to lock it so Twilight wont taze us like she did yesterday. Of course, she could use her magic to wretch the door off of its hinges, as well as repair it so Cadence wont know she ever broke it. We climbed into bed and i felt AJ pull me closer to her. She sighed happily.

"What?" I asked.

"Nothing Spike. Im just happy." She said.

"Why?" I asked. Certainly theres nothing to be happy about, especially with Scoots and RD missing.

"Well, ah finally have somepony to share my bed with for a start, second, its with you, third, im pretty sure were going to beat this, no matter what Twili says. forth...." she never got to four, because i interrupted her with a kiss. We wrapped our arms around each other and she lifted her head a little off the pillow, slowly positioning herself so instead of lying down, we were both sitting up. Suddenly, she pushed me onto my back, pushing herself on top of me. We broke apart. "Are ya okay Spike?" She asked, seeing a blush form on my face, not used to this whole relationship thing.

"Y...yea." I told her.

"Ya dont look like it." Suddenly she climbed off of me, nervous that she might have pushed it to far. Blushing she said "Sorry Spike. Ah guess ah got to carried away." She looked away from me.

"No it wasn't!" I told her. "I liked it. I just wasn't expecting it."

"Oh." There was some silence. "So, um, do ya, uh, want ta keep going?" She asked, suddenly nervous again.

"Only if you do." I told her. Suddenly she lept herself at me, pressing her muzzle agents mine. I was pushed back onto my back and i wrapped my claws around her, happy that I didn't offend her. After several minutes, she pushed herself away from me and laid back down on her pillow. I accompanied her. We laid on our backs, her chest exposed. Suddenly i had an idea. I took my claw and ran it gently down her chest, starting from the base of her neck and running down, stoping just above her waist. She shuddered with pleasure at this new feeling. I did to to her several more times, each resulting in a cute shiver, making her release a few moans as i did this as well. "You like that?" I asked her, doing it again.

"Y...yea Spike I d...I do." She said shuddering again. I assumed doing this was the same as massaging a pegasus's wings. Suddenly she kissed me, pressing herself up agents me. "Sp..Spike" She siad, breaking from the kiss.

"Y...yea?" I asked.

"Ahm...ahm...a a...v...a virgin" She said, blushing and looking away.

"I...is this to much?" I asked her

Ah...ah dont know.. Ah like it Spike ah really do, but im not sure im ready to loose ma virginity, but at the same time ah do."

"Oh." I said. "Well im not pushing you to do that, you know that AJ."

"Ah know Spike. Thats one reason ah love you." She said.

"I love you too Applejack." I said. I pulled her close to me and nuzzled her affectionately, her mane in my face. It smelled like Zap Apples, which was amazing, because the Zap Apple season hasn't started yet. But she still smells like Zap Apples. I always enjoyed the smell of Zap Apples, especially Zap Apple Pie. Applejack sighed happily. I ran my hand through her mane and she cooed happily. I dont think i have ever seen Applejack this happy. She pulled me closer and held me a little tighter.

"I love you so much Spike." Applejack said.

"I know AJ. I love you too."

*****
I awoke with Scootaloo pressed up agents me. Suddenly one of the men came in and said to me,

"Come on. Lets get a move on. Wake up your little pony and lets go."

"Okay. Scootaloo... Scootaloo... ...yea its not working."

"Say her name louder." He said.

"Scootaloo..." I whisper. "Nope. nothing. I guess we'll have to leave without her." I told him with a grin.

"Oh just shake her."

*****
10 minutes later found us packed and ready outside of the compound. remembering the events that transpired this morning brought a smile to my face. of course, i wouldn't really leave Scootaloo behind, but i was just in a good mood for some reason. I was sure that one of the ponies had found Discord and we would be on our way.

"Why thats a nice necklace you got there mam." A man said.

"Thanks. Its one of The Elements of Harmony." I told him.

"I KNEW IT!" Another mare said. With a sigh, he pulled out a small bag of bits and passed it to the mare who had shouted. A look of confusion must have crossed my face, because he said,

"We had a bet going. She said you were in Canterlot during the Changling invasion and you helped save the day." he said. 'Huh. These ponies must not know who I really am.' I thought.

"Yup. The one and only Rainbow Dash, barrier of the Element of Loyalty, and the sole creator of the Sonic Rain-boom.

"Prove it." He said, a look of daring in his eyes..

"Okay." I said. I flew into the air, higher than i have ever dared flown before. Then I rocketed down, towards the ground. suddenly, an explosion rocketed behind me, then not three seconds later, another explosion spanning behind me, a rainbow connecting the Double Sonic Rain-boom together. I rocketed over Scootaloo's head, a choras of wow's and aww's behind me, fueling my speed. I rocketed over the compound and i looped around back to the group, touching down beside Scootaloo gracefully.

"Another 50 bits lost...damn" the pony said, forking 50 bits over to the second, laughing mare.

"That was a double Sonic Rain-boom, by the way." I told him proudly.

"Damn." Was all he could say.

I think I have just earned another fan.

*****
'Oh God oh God oh God oh God...where ARE they?!?' I thought as I ran through Canterlot. Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo should have been here by now. In fact, they should have been here yesterday.' I continued running through the streets, barreling past crystal ponies towards the direction of the Sonic Rain-boom. We all saw it, but it seams like I'm the only one who's taking it seriously. 'Double Rain-Boom' I thought mater-of-factly. I galloped out of the Empire and into the wilderness where the Sonic Boom was created. I just hope there not in trouble.

Finally i saw them, accompanied with several other ponies. I ran to RD and she held me in her hoofs and squeezed me tight. She said,

"Friendship headlock!"

"Agh...R...Rainbow, your choking me! I cant breath!"

"Friendship pile-driver!" She said.

"Wait, no...OUCH!" I said, as I was slammed into the ground. Of course, it wasn't painful, as RD has done worse, not to mention the things i've been through. I got up and dusted myself off, Rainbow Dash and a few new-comers laughing at my expense. "Ha ha RD, very funny." I said. "Who ARE these ponies?" I asked her.

"Uh, it would be easier if i told the entire group, instead one at a time; you know Twilight... or should I call you Twili? Cuz you seem to like it when a certain stallion sa..." She was interrupted with my hoof suddenly appearing in her mouth.

"Call me Twili, and you'll be grounded for life...literally." I said, glaring at her. That shut her up. After all, there are multiple instances that i prevented her from using her wings, 2 months was the longest, if i recall.

"Ok, ok Twilight...sheash." Dashie said.

We walked back towards the empire. 15 minutes found us back in the grounds; another 15 and we were back in the castle. We all hugged Rainbow, who, being modest, didn't want them to fuss over her. But we could all tell she loved it. Now comes the important part; who were those ponies, and what happened. Currently Cadence and Shinning Armor were dealing with them. Rainbow sat down, and told us her story.

*****
20 minutes later RD finished her story. "I guess your right Twilight." Rarity said. Its not just Discord. Theres no way it CAN be.

"Yep. So its over. We might as well return to Ponyville and enjoy what little time we have left." Twilight said.

"What are you talking about Twilight?" Rainbow Dash said.

"Twilight thinks that theres to much Harmony and eventually we'll loose. Theres to much of a balance. Ever notice how each villain has gotten harder and harder to fight?" Rarity said.

"Well I dont know about you, but im not giving up quite yet." Rainbow said.

Author's Note

Can anyone list the 3 quote's? Here's a hint, its from AMC's The Walking Dead Season 1 Episode 6 TS-19 (the season finale, one of my favorites along with the season 3 finale) Leave the likes and comments below. (and I have decided to make Sombra more like He-who-must-not-be-named. Perseuse is a name of a suit shop in Grand Theft Auto 4. The part with the cattle prod is from the movie, The Ultimate Gift.) Oh and I guess i should also do some shout outs. Thanks to DJ for the editing and for giving me some inspiration for this story. (I'm not sure if he has an account on here, otherwise i would give a link to his site. ill update this if i ever find out) Sorry that i wont be on much during the summer so i wont be able to work on the book but ill try

* There actually are black squirrels. I've seen them in person. I picture them as little ninjas.
** I got the idea for this from 'Alien Planet full Documentary.' The creature with the tongue is called an Arrow Tongue. He makes a sound like echolocation and he uses sonar. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNLfNe12BKE