It’s been three days since I came back from my journey. Things in Ponyville have been rather peaceful.
While Starlight was reformed early, most of her activities with the Mane 6 have been similar if not identical to the one in the Season 5 finale. In fact, she already changed her manestyle. I kept an eye on her in case of any funny business, but so far, she didn’t show any plans for taking over the town. The last thing I needed was somepony pulling a Cozy.
I was having tea with Fluttershy. We were discussing my journey.
“I’m sorry I didn’t tell the rest of you girls that I was leaving,” I said. “You must’ve been really worried."
“It’s okay,” said Fluttershy. “Twilight told me you were interested in traveling ever since you and I went on our Breezie trip. I’m still surprised you went all by yourself. Especially to those scary places.”
“They weren’t so scary once I learned about them. I already had friends in the Dragon Lands, and they were nice enough to let me stay with them for the night. As for the griffons, I knew to keep cautious and only ask for help when I’m positive it will be provided.”
“Do you...do you plan on going out again?”
“Nah. It’s gonna be a long time before I do that. So how are things going with you and Starlight?”
“It’s been going good. She really likes chatting with me about animals. It’s hard to remember that she once tried to brainwash a village into giving up their cutie marks.”
“Yeah, thank Celestia that I showed up just in time.”
That’s when I had a familiar squeezing feeling in my stomach.
“Uh, oh,” I said. “One sec.”
I burped out a scroll instantly and read it. “‘Dear Twilight, you are invited to...’ Oh! I better find Twilight.”
Fluttershy nodded. “You do that.”
I hurried to the library to see Twilight and Starlight talking to each other. Apparently, Starlight kept snoring through most of the night. While Twilight and I have used earplugs, Twilight wanted to help Starlight out.
“I can buy some nasal strips for you if it helps,” said Twilight.
“Oh, that would be great,” Starlight said.
“Excuse me, Twilight,” I said. “But you got a letter.”
I handed Twilight the scroll. She unrolled and read it. A worrying sigh left her mouth.
“What is it?” Starlight asked.
“I’m being summoned to the Crystal Empire for a royal meet-and-greet,” Twilight replied. “I guess I better tell the girls.”
Twilight left the library. Starlight scratched her head.
“What’s with Twilight?” she asked.
“She became the Princess of Friendship only a couple of months back, before this summer even began,” I replied. “And since then she’s been having doubts.”
“Oh, you mean she’s been living as a normal pony her whole life only to find out recently she was related to a royal figure?”
“No, no. She was Princess Celestia’s most-trusted student from magic school. After Twilight saved Equestria multiple times with her friends and completed a spell, Celestia gave her the title...and her wings.”
“Wow. That’s really impressive. But I guess all of this is pretty sudden on Twilight, right?”
“Given how soon it happened, it kinda is. Say, why don’t you come with us to the empire? Maybe you can patch things up with Sunburst while we’re there.”
Starlight bit her lip. “I’m sorry, Spike. I don’t think I’m ready to meet him again. It hasn’t been a week since I relearned friendship, so going over there seems too soon for me.”
“If you say so. Just don’t enslave Ponyville while we’re gone.”
“That’s not funny.”
The Mane 6 and I rode the train over to the Crystal Empire. I sat on my seat wondering about the upcoming events. “Twilight’s Kingdom” was happening, and I knew what that meant.
Tirek was returning.
In the show, Tirek returns, and Celestia sends Discord to capture him. Sadly, Discord changes sides and betrays everypony, but gets his just desserts when Tirek betrays him. Tirek later challenges Twilight, and as a result, blows up the entire library. The girls then use their keys to unlock the Tree of Harmony’s chest that contains a rainbow power orb and a castle.
This episode was going to be a challenge. I needed to make sure Discord didn’t betray us. If that didn’t work, then I could try to make sure Tirek didn’t blow up the library. Should the worst come, I would need to move all my comic books to a safe place before things got too nasty.
We stopped at the Crystal Empire’s train station and got off the train. We then made our way to the castle.
“Doesn’t it feel like we visit this place a lot?” I asked. “We must’ve come here at least four times this year.”
“Now that ya brung it up,” said Rainbow, “you might have a point.”
“Oh, posh,” said Rarity. “It’s a treat to visit such a lavishing place, no matter how many times one does it.”
“I'm glad you all wanted to come, but I don't think it's gonna be that exciting,” Twilight said. “I pretty much just have to smile and wave as the dignitaries arrive.”
“And how is that a problem?” I asked. “You get to meet famous royals from other places, learn about their culture, and even find out how they run their land.”
“I don’t know how I’ll get that just by watching them show up.”
“What’s wrong, Twilight?” Fluttershy asked.
Pinkie grabbed Twilight’s cheeks. “Why the looooooong face?”
“I've just been feeling a little unsure about things lately,” replied Twilight. “It doesn't seem that my new role as a princess equates to all that much.”
Applejack chuckled. “That's just silly. You've got a real important role in Equestria.”
“Princess Celestia wouldn't have asked you to come today if she didn't think so,” Fluttershy added.
Twilight sighed. “I guess you’re right.”
“Of course we are,” Rarity said. “Now hurry along! You don't want to risk having that important role diminished because you were tardy for your regal meet-and-greet.”
The rest of the day played out like in the show. The duke and duchess of Maretonia arrived with fanfare. Twilight unfurled the banner from the balcony and waved to the ponies below. I kept my mouth shut instead of complaining like the Old Spike. Despite that, Twilight still felt disappointed.
Later that night, the girls and I talked about what happened.
“Did anypony else feel like this visit didn’t last very long?” Applejack asked. “We only saw them fancy ponies for five minutes tops.”
“It does feel like it,” said Fluttershy.
“I do hope Twilight isn’t too depressed,” Rarity said. “She didn’t feel so proud after pulling down that banner.”
We went to bed after our conversation. However, I couldn’t fall asleep. It was only a matter of time before Tirek came. The best option I could think of was to have Fluttershy tag along with Discord. This could work for two reasons: Not only would she be by Discord so that he doesn’t betray us, Tirek would be outnumbered. Granted, Fluttershy isn’t the sort of pony to throw fists, but her stare and scolding should be enough even for a centaur like Tirek. I’d say she could go as far as to befriend Tirek, but that was too optimistic.
I sat up and walked out of the guest room. I roamed around the halls until I heard three ponies singing.
The princesses.
I hurried over until I noticed a pair of curtains leading to the balcony. I peeked out to see Celestia, Luna, and Cadance singing to Twilight. There was no background music, but the song was still beautiful.
“Know that your time is coming soon!
As the sun rises, so does the moon!
As love finds a place in every heart!
You are a princess; you'll play your part!”
I’ll admit it was one the best songs of Season 4. After the princesses concluded their song, I hurried back to my room. I was about to get into bed when Twilight entered the room.
“You’re not asleep, yet?” Twilight asked.
“I was just about to,” I replied. “I hope the visit went well.”
“It did.”
Twilight and I got to bed and went to sleep. We had a big day tomorrow in more ways than one.
I sat in a cafe with my boss. I took a bite of my BLT sandwich.
“Thanks for the lunch, sir,” I said after I swallowed. “So as I was saying, the recent project might increase the company’s profits by 4%, however we’ll need to ensure everyone does their part thoroughly in order to...”
“Relax, David,” Mr. Johnson said. “We’re on lunch break right now. I admire your professional attitude and your enthusiasm to work, as that is what made us hire you, but you don’t have to hold onto it outside the office.” He ate a forkful of his stir fry.
“I’m sorry, sir. It’s just that I’m really lucky to have landed this job, especially these days given my age. I don’t want to blow it because of some slip-up.”
“Hey, one of the many reasons why I hired you was because I wasn’t one of those crazy employers who would look for someone with twenty years experience for an entry-level job.” Mr. Johnson chuckled.
I smirked a bit.
“I appreciate your involvement with Papertinc, but why don’t we just have a casual conversation for once? Hmm?”
“Okay, well, what do you want to talk about casually?” I asked before taking a sip of my lemonade.
“Here’s a thinker.” Mr. Johnson clasped his hands together. “What would you do if you went back in time with all the information you learned now? Like, what would you change if you could relive your life?”
I let the stray ice cube melt in my mouth as I thought about my supervisor’s question. “I don’t know, Mr. Johnson. I would probably do the same thing.” I swished my glass a bit. “Actually, I could’ve just picked business as my major from the very beginning instead of throwing two years and a bunch of grand down the drain.” I placed my glass down. “My student loan would be much smaller, then.”
“Heh, I’ll bet.”
“In fact, I could change a lot of stuff. I could warn about disasters happening, fix relationships, maybe even ask my parents to invest in companies that were just starting out. Assuming they would believe me, of course.”
“Yeah. I bet anyone would have done that. I, personally, would’ve steered clear of my first wife if I knew she was in it for the paychecks I received.” Mr. Johnson sipped his ice tea.
“Ouch. You know, I’ve been thinking,” I said. “What if we could change how a fictional story played out?”
“You mean like a TV show or a movie?”
“Of some sort.”
“Yeah, that could be probable. Of course, you could just simply write a story about the show with a different ending if you don’t like it.”
“That’s true. I’ve read many online stories that do that.”
We continued our lunch in silence.
I woke up in the middle of the night. I didn’t know why that memory came to me all of a sudden.
I looked to my side and noticed Twilight’s bed was empty.
“Twilight?” I asked.
There was no response. I had a feeling I knew why. I got out of bed and went down the hall once again. This time, I heard concerned voices instead of ponies singing this time.
One of the double doors was cracked open, projecting a sliver of light on the other side of the wall. I could hear the voices from inside the room. I hid behind a giant plant and eavesdropped on the conversation.
“Princess Celestia, I don’t understand!” Twilight’s voice shouted. “Why would you send Discord of all creatures?!”
“Because I have firm belief that he can stop Tirek,” Celestia’s voice replied.
“With all due respect, your highness, Discord’s unpredictable! How is he qualified for this job?”
“I knew Discord even before he was turned to stone. He can sense whenever there's a magical imbalance. If Tirek were to steal magic again, Discord would be able to track him down.”
“Can’t I just tag along with him?”
“No. Tirek has yet to discover that you’re an alicorn,” replied Luna. “As such if you present to him as you are, even with a disguise, he would take your magic away without hesitation.”
“Then what do you want me to do?” Twilight asked.
“Nothing at the moment,” replied Celestia. “The time will come when you are most needed.”
I heard nothing but silence. I wanted to bust in and tell them it was a bad idea, or at least bring up the intention that Discord could play double-agent.
I heard hoofbeats approaching the door. I hid behind the plant and held my breath as the four princesses went their separate ways. Once I was sure they were out of earshot, I went back to my room.
I carefully opened the door and slid back into my bed with Twilight none the wiser.
The next morning, the girls and I hopped the train back home. Twilight stared out the window for what seemed like hours.
“Everything alright, Twilight?” I asked.
“Girls, there’s something I need to tell you all when we get back to Ponyville,” Twilight announced. “It’s really important. Meet me at the center of town.”
Once we got to Ponyville, we hurried home to unpack our stuff. Twilight and I brung Starlight with us. It was a relief she didn’t take over the town.
“So what’s been goin’ on, Twi?” Applejack asked.
Twilight told us everything the princesses told her. Tirek had been getting powerful since his escape from Tartarus. Celestia sent Discord to stop him, much to everypony’s, including Starlight’s, shock.
“Discord is on the good guys side?” Starlight asked. “Since when?”
“About a few months now,” replied Pinkie. “I can make an accurate assumption if you want.”
“So what are you supposed to do in the meantime?” Rainbow asked Twilight.
“Nothing.” Twilight sighed. “Unless of course one of you needs me to smile and wave.”
Twilight headed to the Everfree Forest. That gave me an idea.
“Hey, girls,” I said. “While we’re waiting for Discord to defeat Tirek, why don’t we focus on some other important task. Like...uh...how about the chest?”
“The chest?” Rainbow asked.
“What chest?” questioned Starlight.
“The one at the Tree of Harmony,” I replied. “It appeared when the girls gave it their Elements of Harmony: trinkets that the girls once wore to defeat evil.”
“But we don’t have the keys to open it, Spike,” said Twilight as she came back. “The only thing I could think of that could help us is...is...” Twilight eyes widened in realization. “Of course!”
Rarity blinked rapidly. “What? What?”
“Girls! Remember those things you got that shined a rainbow?”
Rainbow nodded. “Yeah. And?”
“I’ve been theorizing that those things have a correlation to the chest.” Twilight flew into the air. “Everypony, bring your stuff over to the Tree of Harmony. I’ll meet you there.”
Everypony split up, leaving Starlight confused.
“Can somepony please tell me what’s going on?” Starlight asked.
“I’m not a pony, but I can tell you what’s going on,” I replied. “Follow me, and we’ll talk.”
Starlight and I went into the Everfree Forest. I explained to Starlight everything that’s happened to the girls since they discovered the Tree of Harmony.
“So in short,” I concluded as Starlight and I took the stairs down to the tree, “we believe the items we got could be important, so the girls are keeping their respective gifts safe until they figure out what to do with them. Now, do you understand?”
“I guess,” Starlight replied as she rubbed her head. “But from what you’ve told me, Twilight doesn’t have her...rainbow thing yet.”
“Yeah, I’m surprised. Don’t worry, I’m sure it’ll come soon.”
We headed to the tree to see Twilight pacing back and forth.
“So this is the Tree of Harmony?” Starlight asked.
Twilight stopped pacing once she noticed us.
“Oh, you two are here. And yes, this is it.”
A short while later, the rest of the girls came with their items.
“It was a good thing you suggested we kept these safe,” said Rarity. “I had ideas about using the rainbow thread for one of my designs when I first received it from Coco.”
“So how do these things help us get our key?” Rainbow asked.
Twilight said, “All of you had tough choices to make. But when you made the right one and embraced your element, it helped somepony else make the right choice too. Each of you received something from the pony whose life you helped change. And the objects you hold could lead us to our keys. The chest is connected to the Tree of Harmony, the Tree is connected to the Elements, and the Elements are connected to all of us.”
“But how will we get our keys with these?” Fluttershy asked.
“Fluttershy has a point,” said Applejack. “I don’t know about ya’ll, but to me, these seem like common objects ya find lyin’ around a discount box at a trade stand.”
Pinkie Pie picked up Boneless. “Come on, Boneless! Give us that key!”
“I don't think that's going to work,” said Twilight.
In a fit of rage, Pinkie threw Boneless against the chest. Boneless suddenly got encased in an aura of magic and transformed into a key. The key then inserted itself into one of the six keyholes.
“I guess that’s one way to get your key,” Starlight said.
The other girls put their respective item on the chest, and just like Boneless, each item turned into a key and inserted themselves into the remaining keyholes.
“There's still one key missing,” said Twilight. “The key that represents the element of magic. My element.”
“Oh, but I'm sure that if we've gotten our keys, you have too, Twilight,” said Fluttershy.
I shook my head. “She hasn’t. At least, I don’t recall her earning one.”
Twilight looked down to the floor.
“Uh...don’t worry, Twilight.” Starlight patted her mentor on the back. “I’m sure you’ll get your key soon.”
“I see you’ve learned well how to express sympathy,” Twilight said with a small smirk.
“Hello down there!” A voice called out.
We exited the cave to see Discord floating down towards us. He held an umbrella and a suitcase like a British nanny in a Disney Musical.
“Well, isn’t this a surprise,” Discord said as he landed. “You ponies are already in the process of opening up that chest.”
“Woah, Discord looks a lot freakier up close,” Starlight whispered to me.
I nodded, knowing I had the same feeling when I first met him in person.
Discord then saw Starlight.
“Now, hold on,” he said. “Do I have double vision, or are there four Twilights here?”
“Oh, uh...” I cleared my throat. “Discord, this is Starlight Glimmer. I found her while I was exploring Equestria, and she’s been taken under Twilight’s wing to learn about friendship.”
“She’s here early. Ah, well. Welcome to the dream team, Glimmer.” Discord spawned next to her. Both of them were wearing t-shirts with the Mane 6 plus me on them. “I hope you make a wonderful addition to our posse.”
Starlight and Discord materialized on the shirts.
“What are you even doing here, Discord?” Rainbow asked.
Discord spawned the journal. “Oh, just a bit of light reading before I head off on my extremely important mission. I suppose you all know that I've been tasked to capture a certain escapee. I was gonna subtly remind you about that chest, but I guess somedragon beat me to it.”
I stayed silent.
“Anyway, it seems I possess a magic that gives me quite an important role in Equestria. Maybe they should make me an Alicorn princess.” Discord poofed up fake wings, horn, and crown. Everypony was not amused.
“In your dreams!” Rainbow retorted.
“Oh, I never dream of such things. Ask Princess Luna.”
What does Discord dream of? I should probably ask Luna if it’s nothing too private.
“Don't you have a creepy magic-stealin' villain to track down?” Applejack asked.
“Yes, yes, yes, of course,” replied Discord. “It's just that I couldn't help but notice that Twilight hasn't received her key yet.” Discord walked over to the chest and knocked on it. “It got me thinking, what if what's locked inside is something that could help her prove her royal worth? I only brought it up because she said that she's been feeling like her role as a princess doesn't equate to much.”
“Wait a minute!” Pinkie exclaimed. “How do you know how she was feeling?!”
“Oh, my. Is eavesdropping not the way you're supposed to find out what your best pals are up to?” He pretended to sob. “Woe is me. Will I ever learn the intricate nuances of being a good friend?”
We were all once again not fooled by Discord’s acting.
“Well in any case, I suppose now is as good a time as any for me to make my exit.” Discord approached a moped that appeared out of nowhere.
“Wait!” I called out. “Take Fluttershy with you.”
“WHAT?!” Everypony shouted together, including Discord. His moped fell over like a bicycle.
“Spike, are you crazy?!” Rainbow yelled. “Why would you send Fluttershy to help stop Tirek?!”
“Because I have full faith that she can do it,” I replied calmly.
“I-I don't know, S-Spike,” Fluttershy said nervously. “T-Tirek sounds like a d-d-dangerous creature.”
“Look, Fluttershy. You've tamed all sorts of dangerous creatures in the past. You talked down that giant dragon like it was nothing. You petted Cerberus's belly like he was a puppy next door. You're the reason Discord is on our side and not a permanent resident in Princess Celestia's garden.”
“But...but do you think I can really help?”
I nodded and softly held her head. “I do. You are a very sweet talker. You can put your hoof down when needed. Plus, you’ve got your Stare if all else fails. You’d be perfect for this mission.”
Fluttershy looked at the other girls. They, too, were dumbfounded by my suggestion.
“Is...is it alright with Discord?” Fluttershy asked.
Discord was speechless, much to my surprise. Was it because in all of his timeline repeats, he never had Fluttershy help him? Or was he faking it?
Discord regained his composure and said, “I will allow it. Celestia never said I couldn’t bring a plus one. But I must warn you, dear Fluttershy. It’s not going to be easy.”
Fluttershy took a deep breath. “It wasn’t easy making you my friend, but I did it anyway. I’ll do my best to help you.”
“Very well, then.” Discord put the moped back up and extended the seat. “Whenever you're ready.”
“I don’t know if having you with Discord will help, Fluttershy, but it’s worth a try,” said Twilight. “Good luck out there.”
We shared a group hug with Fluttershy. She then hopped up onto the moped and put on a helmet with goggles.
“Bon voyage!” Discord announced.
He revved up the engine before disappearing in a white light.
“Discord sure is a weird one,” said Starlight.
“That’s putting it lightly, Glimmy,” I said.
“Do ya really think Fluttershy can handle Tirek?” Applejack asked.
“Hard to say,” said Rainbow. “I had doubts when she was tasked to reform Discord, and yet I was proven wrong.”
“Wait, Fluttershy’s the one who reformed Discord?!” Starlight asked.
“Yeah, you’d be surprised that she doesn’t always live up to the last three letters of her name,” I said.
“So what shall we do in the meantime?” Rarity asked.
“I guess we'll wait,” said Twilight.
The girls and I returned home. Starlight and Twilight continued their friendship lessons. I read some of my comic books. That's when I realized I should store them somewhere safe just in case.
I quickly grabbed a box and stored every comic book in it. I then covered the box with a lid and left.
I know just the pony who can keep this safe for the time being.
I approached his house just in time. I noticed it looked very similar to the one in the fan video. I knocked on the door very loudly.
“I’ll get it, mom!” His muffled voice called out on the other side. He opened the door. “Oh, Spike. What’s going on?”
“Hey, Button Mash,” I greeted. “Listen, I need your help with something. Do you have a minute?”
“Uh, sure. Come on in.”
We entered Button Mash’s home.
“Who is that?” A mare’s voice called from the kitchen.
“Just a friend, mom,” Button replied. “So what do you need me for, Spike? And what’s with the box?”
I put the box on the couch and opened the lid to reveal my comic books.
“Comic books?” asked Button Mash. “I’m sorry, Spike. I’m more into stories that I can interact with.” He pointed to the TV that showed the level he paused. “If you’re looking to trade, you’re a few weeks too late.”
“That’s not why I’m here,” I said. “Is it possible for you to keep this box and its contents safe for the time being? I have a bad feeling that something is going to come up, and I want to make sure these aren’t involved in any catastrophes.”
“But why would you ask me to guard them? I don’t know how to take care of comic books.”
“I know how you are in protecting your video games, so this would be no different. You don’t have to do anything special. Just keep the comic books in the box, and put the box somewhere in your room, like in your closet or under your bed. I’ll come back to get them when I’m sure that everything’s alright.”
Button sighed. “Alright then.”
“Thank you.”
Button Mash took the box to his room. Should the library blow up regardless, at least some of my rarities would be safe. Unless Button spills juice on them.
I returned to the library. Twilight had a surprised look on her face when she saw me come in.
“Where were you, Spike?” She asked.
“I just needed to take care of—HURK!” My sentence was interrupted when my stomach squeezed once more. If I had a bit for every time this happened, I could afford one of the higher quality comic books in Canterlot.
A scroll came out of my mouth in a raging fire. My heartbeat picked up.
“Woah! I didn’t know dragons sent letters like that,” said Starlight.
“It’s a spell,” I replied as Twilight read the scroll.
“Uh, oh. Looks like I’m needed in Canterlot at once!” Twilight exclaimed as she put the scroll away. “I better go see what’s going on.”
“Do you need us to come with you?” Starlight asked.
“No. The letter said that I have to arrive alone. I don’t know why. Don’t worry, I’ll be back shortly.”
Twilight left the library instantly. I controlled my breathing the best I could.
“Spike, what’s wrong?” Starlight asked. “It sounds like you're hyperventilating.”
“I-I’m sorry,” I said nervously. “It’s just that...I have a really bad feeling about this. And most of the time, my gut feeling is right.”
“Really? I don’t want to doubt you, Spike, but I’ve heard some stories about Discord and how he can be pretty powerful. Also, Fluttershy herself is really kind, and you were the one who said she should go with him.”
“I know. I’m just afraid Discord would betray us or something, and I hate to see the look on Fluttershy’s face if he does.”
“But Fluttershy was the one who reformed Discord, right? Why would he backslap her?”
“I don’t know. Maybe Tirek gave him an offer he couldn’t refuse.”
“I guess we’ll have to wait until Twilight gets back with the news.”
I prayed that whatever happened with Tirek would not be like in the show. Discord may be chaotic, but he would never be heartless enough to double-cross his one and only friend when she’s right in front of him.
I spent the rest of my day keeping myself calm. I drank some chamomile tea, read relaxing stories, and even listened to a few smooth jazz records. Anything to keep my mind off what might’ve happened during Tirek, Discord, and Fluttershy’s encounter.
I chatted with Starlight and brought her up to speed about what happened ever since Twilight and I first visited Ponyville. Needless to say, it was quite a lot of ground to cover. I was just glad she didn’t show up during the much later seasons.
Night had already fallen. I was worried that Twilight, Discord, or Fluttershy had yet to return. I bit my lower lip in fright. After I did my nightly routine, I hopped into bed. Starlight came up the stairs afterward holding a bandana. She had a nasal strip on her nose.
“I wonder what’s taking those guys so long?” Starlight said. “It’s been hours since Twilight left, and we haven’t even gotten a letter.”
“I know,” I replied. “It’s very worrying. By the way, I take it the bandana is in case the nasal strips don’t work?”
Starlight nodded. “Let’s hope they do work.”
I sighed and went to bed.
The next morning, I slept so late that Starlight had to wake me up.
“Huh?” I yawned. “What’s going on?”
“You were asleep for a long time,” said Starlight. “It’s almost ten o’clock.”
I checked the clock above Twilight’s bed, and Starlight was correct. I quickly got out of bed.
“Did Twilight come back?” I asked.
“Yes she did,” replied Starlight. “When I woke up, she was already home. I wanted to ask her about what happened in Canterlot, but all she said was that everything was fine and then rushed out of the library.”
“Any news on Fluttershy and Discord?”
Starlight shook her head. “They’re probably still catching Tirek.”
“Well, find Twilight and ask. Meanwhile, I’ll head on over to Fluttershy’s cottage to feed her animals.”
Starlight and I left the library. I hurried down the road and up to Fluttershy’s house. I knocked on the door. I heard the sound of little paws running up to open it. The door swung open, and Angel stood in front of me. He gave a groan in disappointment.
“Sorry, Angel,” I said. “Fluttershy’s not back yet. I’m here to feed you and the others.”
I went about the cottage filling up bowls and feeders with different animal foods. I gave Angel a salad as usual.
As he ate, he looked out the window all confused.
“Something on your mind?” I asked.
Angel pointed to the sky and shrugged.
“You’re wondering why there are clouds in the sky?”
Angel shook his head. He munched on a cucumber slice until it was shaped like the sun.
“Something with the sun?”
Angel nodded. He then motioned it upwards in a jagged, snake-like pattern.
“The sun acted weird when it rose this morning?”
Angel nodded.
“Well, I slept through most of the morning, so I wouldn’t know what happened.”
But the truth was I actually knew. The sun must’ve been raised by Twilight, which meant she was given Celestia, Luna, and Cadance’s magic. That was not a good sign, at all.
I quickly exited the cottage and hurried back to the center of town. Applejack quickly approached.
“Spike! There you are!” She exclaimed.
“Applejack!” I called. “Did you find Twilight?”
“Yep. She told all of us to get everypony to stay indoors ‘til Tirek’s back in Tartarus. Now, I already told the lot of the folks in this area of Ponyville, but I wanted to make sure you were alright.”
“Yeah, I’m fine. Let me help you warn the other ponies.”
I followed Applejack as we went around the town asking ponies to stay in. We later met the rest of the girls in the center of town.
“All right, y'all. I think we've warned everypony to stay inside,” said Applejack.
“I sure hope so,” said Rainbow Dash.
“Is anypony worried about Fluttershy and Discord?” Pinkie asked. “They’ve been gone for a really long time.”
“That does seem concerning,” replied Rarity. “Perhaps they’re still chasing Tirek.”
That’s when my ears picked up the sound of somepony struggling. I turned around to see…
“Fluttershy!” I shouted. “And Discord! They’re back!”
Fluttershy was dragging Discord’s body like a giant boa constrictor. Both of them had whiteness in their eyes. After a few drags, Fluttershy plopped to the ground.
“Oh, no!” Rainbow exclaimed.
We all hurried to her and Discord’s side.
“What happened?!” I shouted concernedly.
“It was a long and brutal battle,” Discord announced weakly.
“My goodness!” Rarity cried. “But at least you two got Tirek, right?”
There was silence.
“Right?” Rarity repeated with more anxiety.
“I...never said that,” replied Discord.
My heart sank and my face grew pale.
“W-what do you mean?!” Rainbow asked. “You...lost?!”
Discord coughed. “I don’t know how long until Tirek gets here, but I’ll tell you everything.”
Discord got off of Fluttershy and layed down like a sick bulldog.
“Fluttershy and I found Tirek at an alley up in Canterlot. We already had him up in chains. That’s when he offered what he thought was better than friendship: freedom. Now I had initial thoughts, but even I knew that it wouldn’t be worth betraying my one and only friend, Fluttershy.” He petted Fluttershy’s head with what remaining strength he had left. She smiled a bit. “After all, while I am restricted from turning Ponyville into my own playset, I could still act chaotic in my own world and beyond. But when I turned down his offer he...attacked...Fluttershy!”
Just when my heart couldn’t sink any lower, it did just that. And I thought Discord's betrayal was terrible.
“Tirek wouldn’t listen when Fluttershy sweet-talked him into surrendering,” Discord continued. “He broke out of the chains and shot a beam at Fluttershy, but she dodged it. She scolded him and even tried to use her Stare on him. Neither one worked. The sheer sight of him stealing my friend’s magic sent me into a blind rage. I fought back in protection. While I did put up a good fight, I realized too late what a dumb mistake I made. He took my magic too and got away. Fluttershy mustered up as much strength as she could to get us back home.”
“No! No! NOOO!!” I slammed my fist into the ground. “This can’t be true!”
Fluttershy wheezed. “I’m...afraid...it is. I didn’t think anypony could be so cruel.”
The thought was mutual. Not only did Tirek attack Fluttershy, but it was for the fact that Discord rejected his offer. Just when I thought Tirek’s forgiveness died when I saw him blow up the library in the show, this happened. Rage filled me more than any argument combined.
“Spike, are you alright?” Rarity asked.
“I need to leave!” I shouted. “I need to be by myself and clear my head!”
I ran out of Ponyville in a fury. I heard voices from behind my back.
“What’s that in your paw, Discord?” Pinkie asked.
“It’s Tirek’s necklace,” Discord replied. “I ripped it off during our struggle. He didn’t seem to take it back for some reason.”
I didn’t know how long I walked until I was out of Ponyville. I was angrier than a gumball machine employing a blue jay and racoon. I sighed as I sat by a nearby river bed. I needed some time to clear my mind.
“I can’t believe this is happening!” I shouted to myself. “How could this happen?!”
I tried to recollect the events and calm myself down.
Was it my fault I had Fluttershy join him? Should I have let Discord betray us? Should I have gone instead?
What difference did it make? Tirek would still attack Ponyville. Perhaps Discord was right about me not changing fate. I wanted to lay down and never do anything again for the rest of the show. It would be no different than being back in my old world rewatching the series.
During my thought process, I heard the sound of squeaking. I sat up and saw a brown mouse struggling on the side of the rock as the water splashed upon its back! As if I was channeling my inner Fluttershy, I swifty waddled through the knee-deep water and picked up the rodent. I then carried it back to dry land. I swear I saw it nodding at me a bit before shaking itself dry and getting all the leaves and twigs off.
The leaves and twigs that once clinged onto the mouse’s fur gave a hint of rainbow colors. Suddenly, like a corporation in June, a giant rainbow flashed across my eyes.
What am I doing? It wasn’t my fault! I didn’t know that Fluttershy would be attacked! I can still change this! I need to make it up to her, to everypony! I need to help them!
That rainbow moment surprised me. I never thought it would happen to me. I guessed there really was a hidden seventh element. One that didn’t need a key.
The mouse scurried to a nearby berry bush. It picked a few twigs of berries with its teeth when a robin flew in. The mouse gave the bird a few berries and twigs. The robin ate the berries and grabbed the twigs with her claws and flew into the sky.
I watched the bird fly away. That was when I noticed the clouds. One was shaped like a triangular necklace, and the other was a simple key. I could barely make out two small parallel lines between them. I knew what it was trying to say.
I don’t need clouds to know what Twilight's key will be.
I stood up and stretched.
I need to find Twilight and talk to her! She needs to know what to do! I just have to find her before—
Boom! Boom! Boom!
A loud rumbling sound shook the ground. I widened my eyes as I ran out into the field to see…
“Lord Tirek!”
The muscular centaur was approaching the village. His height was bigger than all the buildings combined. Needless to say, he probably already got the rest of the girls’ magic by now. I didn’t have time to find Twilight anymore! I had to face the big guy on my own!
I gotta stop Tirek before it's too late! But how? He's practically the size of the Canterlot castle right now. The only way for me to attack him is to…
That's when it hit me. I knew what I had to do. I promised myself that it would never happen, but I had no other choice.
I had to turn into my greed-zilla form.
There was no other way. It had to be done. I took a deep breath.
Now would be a good time to get greedy!
I closed my eyes tightly and thought of greedy thoughts. It had to work since collecting a bunch of stuff in a short time was out of the question.
Come on, come on. I want to get greedy. Greed is good. I want greed. I want to protect Fluttershy. I want to protect Twilight. I want to protect everypony. I want everything.
I want…
I want…
I WANT…
"Spike WANT!!"
Like Goku going Super Saiyan, I felt the energy rushing through my veins! I felt my own body getting bigger and bigger. My claws got sharper, my spines got longer, and my fangs got pointier. I was no longer a baby dragon. I was a full grown dragon! I released a powerful roar that shook the ground!
I saw Tirek getting ready to release a powerful blast of magic. I knew where he was targeting, and I couldn't let him do that. The library survives this time.
I charged head on towards Tirek. By the time he noticed me, it was too late. I slammed right into him, knocking him down and sending that blast of magic into the sky. Instead of a giant tree, the beam exploded a cloud without any casualties.
You're welcome, Twilight.
"You son of a—!"
POW!
Tirek couldn't finish as I drove my fist right across his jaw. Just because Twilight can't punch Tirek doesn't mean I couldn't. I prepared for another punch when he grabbed my fist and knocked me back with his front hooves.
“I don’t know who you are,” Tirek snarled, “but you’re gonna pay for that!”
“Sorry, I’m low on bits...” I picked myself up. “Do you take CHECKS?!” I rammed my entire body into him once again.
Tirek stumbled backwards. He prepared another magic blast when he got struck with one himself.
The source of the blast was from Twilight, who flew in and joined me in fighting Tirek. The giant centaur swung a fist at Twilight, but she was too small and agile for him to hit her.
I blasted my fire breath straight at Tirek. He could only cover himself with his arms as the green flames attacked him. He escaped with only burn marks on his arms and part of his hair singed off. Just when he was going to fight back, Twilight sent another magic blast right on his back.
"Augh! Dang it!" Tirek thundered.
Now was my chance. With all my might, I smacked my forearms on both sides of his head. Whilst he was discombobulated, I delivered a walloping punch right across Tirek's face, knocking a tooth out and him down.
"That's for Fluttershy!" I grumbled.
Twilight sent one of her most powerful blasts straight at him. Tirek tried his best to fire a counterattack, but he failed, resulting in his entire body being blown backwards.
I approached Tirek. He lied on the crater moaning like a sick dog. I picked him up by his shoulder.
"Any last words?" I growled. My mouth started glowing as I was ready to shoot one heck of a fireball.
Suddenly, I was feeling weak. I released my grip as I fell to my knees. All that power I felt drained from my body. I looked to see Tirek with his mouth open. I knew what was happening. He was sucking the magic out of me. Every painful second he did that made me feel weaker and weaker. I felt myself shrinking until I was back to my normal size. I collapsed to the ground.
My eyelids got so heavy. I felt like I was awake for a month straight. My vision grew blurry. I could barely make out Twilight approaching me.
"Spike! That was you?!" Twilight picked up my body.
"The necklace is the key!" I whimpered. "Find the necklace. The necklace...is...the key..."
Everything went dark. The sounds faded away.
Beep...beep...beep…
I opened my eyes. The scent of medical supplies and the sight of bright lights told me I was in the hospital.
I slowly sat up. A yellow hoof held my chest. I traced its source to see Fluttershy looking at me.
"Have...have I kicked the bucket?" I asked. "Because I'm seeing an angel right now."
Fluttershy giggled. "No, Spike. You're still alive."
I held her hoof. "Does that mean...we won?"
Fluttershy nodded and told me the whole story. Sometime after I left, Tirek came along and took the rest of the girls' magic. He then kidnapped them along with Fluttershy and Discord. After I passed out during that fight, Tirek made a deal with Twilight. Like in the show, Twilight was willing to give him her magic in return for the rest of her friends. Tirek may have been a backstabber, but he kept his word. Discord then gave Twilight Tirek's necklace, which made her realize what I meant by "the necklace is the key." So, the Mane 6 returned to the Tree of Harmony and unlocked the box, which contained a special orb that gave the group something called "Rainbow Power." Despite the girls not having magic, the Rainbow Power helped them defeat Tirek. Because of his defeat, everyone got their magic back.
"That's amazing," I said. "I wish I could've seen it. I'm surprised the Tree could do that."
"It's not the only thing the Tree of Harmony did," said Fluttershy.
"What do you mean?"
"You'll soon see."
After the doctor said that I was good to go, Fluttershy and I headed out. I rode on Fluttershy's back.
A giant castle caught my eye. Actually it was less of “caught” and more like “grabbing my eye and forcing me to look”. It rested beside a mountain with a flowing waterfall.
"That's from the Tree of Harmony?" I asked.
"Mmm-hmm," Fluttershy said. "It appeared after Tirek's defeat."
"How long was I out?"
"About a few hours. We were all so worried that you didn't wake up even after getting your magic back, so I volunteered to take you to the hospital until you felt better."
I hugged Fluttershy. "Thank you. That was very kind of you."
"You're welcome. I’m still the Element of Kindness."
“I’m sorry you and Discord had your magic stolen. If I knew Tirek would’ve done that, I would have never suggested you to join Discord.”
“It’s okay. We got it back, and that’s all that matters.”
We passed the library, which was still intact. Never have I been so relieved.
"Looks like the library survived," I commented.
"Yeah. Twilight said that Tirek almost blew it up. If it weren't for you, she would've lost all her books. I didn't even know you could grow like that."
I rubbed the back of my head. "It's called 'Greed-induced bigness.' I wanted to avoid using it, but I had no choice."
"You had to do what was right, Spike. Even if you had to turn into a...giant dragon." Fluttershy shivered.
"Don't be afraid," I said as I patted her head. "You were right. I had to do it to protect everypony. Especially you."
Fluttershy blushed.
We entered the castle. The hallway was so spacious, it could fit two of the old libraries in it.
"Twilight should be in the throne room," said Fluttershy. "Let's go."
It didn't take long for us to get to the throne room. The rest of the girls and Discord were on a star-shaped floor that was surrounded by six chairs plus a small one. I guess that one was mine.
"Spike!" Twilight picked me up and hugged me. "I'm so glad you're okay! We all missed you."
"Yeah. I missed you girls as well," I said as I hugged back. "Fluttershy told me this castle came from the Tree of Harmony."
"That’s right. This is where Starlight, you, and I will live from now on."
"But the library…"
"We're gonna move out of it. Since we've gotten this castle, we might as well make the most of it. And hey, we get our own rooms."
"I guess I'm okay with that. At least I won’t hear Starlight snore."
“Very funny.”
We all shared a group hug. I'll admit fighting Tirek was pretty awesome, and while Twilight, Starlight, and I were still gonna live in the castle, the library itself would live to see another day. The only question now was who's going to live in it.