"So Twilight feel free to jump in at any time to correct me here. So pretty much an ancient Equestrian prophesy, for told me falling out of the sky.", The Doctor asked in disbelief.
"Yes", Twilight Sparkle said blankly.
"Right, and in that ancient Equestrian prophesy it said that I, alone am the only hope Equestria has from being being plunged into eternal darkness.", The Doctor said still giving her a glance of You're-Joking-Right?
"Yes.", Twilight Sparkle said still in the same manner.
"Okay, so this prophesy not only does not know the outcome of this "great conflict", that will take place very soon. By an evil that could range from the Changelings to an ancient evil king. Who may or may not have been defeated by you and your friends last year.", The Doctor said staring at her with his wide open ocean blue eyes.
"Pretty much...", Twilight Sparkle said with a nervous chuckle.
"Oi", The Doctor said rubbing his eyes with his hoofs. Before then continuing. "Fat lot of good that prophesy does eh? We not only do not know when this "evil" will descend upon pony kind and pretty much the entire world. But we also do not have a blasted clue on who or what is descending.... I suppose attack of the bunnies is a bit too optimistic then?", The Doctor said dryly.
"I'm afraid so Doctor, what ever this evil is. It is apparently the greatest foe, the forces of harmony have ever seen. And apparently the Elements of Harmony or the magic of The Princesses is not enough to stop it.", Twilight Sparkle explained.
"Oh that is simply BRILLIANT!", The Doctor said knocking books of the a table in rage.
Twilight just looked on with a face of worry. She couldn't think of anything that the magic of The Elements or The Princesses couldn't stop.
"Yo Doc! Look I don't like this anymore than you do! But there is no point in flipping out on these books!", Rainbow Dash scolded.
"I know... I know, let's just say I have a very, very.... long history with ancient prophesies. And most of them ended with the people I cared about either dying. Or getting hurt. So my apologies to the books. But right now, I could really, REALLY, just need a moment if you please, for everyone to just shut up." The Doctor said angrily, as he put his hooves on his head and went into a deep thought.
Rainbow Dash thought about getting into a screaming match with The Doctor, but he really didn't deserve it. So she just that there with her hooves crossed angrily trying to calm down. The minutes passed by like hours. As The Doctor just sat there with his eyes closed tightly, hooves in his mane as he tried to figure out the situation that now was put before him.
"Alright look, if we are going to do this, I'm going to need a couple of things. Number 1, muffins. Bring 'em all in. I don't care which flavor, though banana or blueberry wouldn't hurt... Anyway Number 2, I am going to need a map of Equestria and the surrounding lands. We need to figure out ever possible location that the hive of The Changelings could be. Because Queen Chrysalis let it slip she had my TARDIS, and no one. Ever. EVER. Touches my TARDIS. Number 3, Rainbow I need you to give me a full background of Scootaloo, Queen Chrysalis obviously wanted her for a reason. And I highly doubt it was because she has a lot of spunk....", The Doctor finished before giving a serious stare at the two ponies who sat across from him.
"Aye, aye Cap'n", Twilight Sparkle, said as she got up and started searching the Library for maps of Equestria and any possible surrounding lands.
"You got it Doc", Rainbow Dash said giving a mock salute.
"... Never do that again Rainbow. I hate that, never again. Got it? Good, let's get to work. Allons'y", The Doctor smirked as he let out a chuckle.
So The Doctor and his friends got work immediately on the task that was put fourth in front of them. Twilight Sparkle set out a lay of maps and charts of Equestria and the lands that surrounded it. And brought out a chalk board so they could narrow down a few places. And Rainbow Dash gave a summary on everything she knew about Scootaloo. How she was found as a newborn on the steps of The Sugarcube Corner. How it was just always assumed that she was orphaned off. And how she still couldn't fly. And her fighting spirit. The Doctor listened intently. As he still studied the maps set before him. As the hours past and it grew to evening, and evening grew into night. Princess Luna's night sky sparkled with the dazzling stars. But Rainbow Dash grew a bit impatient.
"UGH, Doc! Did you figure this out yet! I mean sheesh we've been here for almost 6 hours! We are almost out of chalk we have been writing and erasing so much!", Rainbow Dash whined.
"Shut up, I am being clever over here! I don't need any distr-..." The Doctor stopped talking before getting wide eyed.
"Hey don't tell me to shut up! And what! Scared to keep talking!", Rainbow Dash said squinting her eyes at The Doctor.
"QUIET! Twilight! Look over here to the south west of Ponyville these mountains what are they called! To the immediate south of the Everfree forest!", The Doctor said in a tone of utmost importance.
"Those? They are known as the Scarlet Mountains. Dragon territory.", Twilight explained perplexed.
"Dragons! Right, when was the last time dragons have been seen to the south east of Ponyville! Because if I remember correctly when you told me Spike went to go with the Dragon migration it went from south EAST to the North West! They never crossed the Scarlet Mountains, do you not find it odd these Scarlet Mountain dragons would not follow their instincts and go on The Dragon migration!", The Doctor said shaking Twilight.
"But, if they're no dragons... Then what could possibly be in lurking in the Scarlet Mountains?", Twilight Sparkle said confused and rising, while her voice raised in volume.
"Oh my LUNA! DOC! The HIVE! It's in the Scarlet Mountains isn't it!", Rainbow Dash said her enthusiasm bursting through.
"OH YES! The Changelings were seen flying South West of Canterlot after the wedding incident no? But the trail died because the only thing after Ponyville to the South West of Canterlot was the Scarlet Mountains, dragon territory. But it isn't dragon territory. No the dragons haven't been in the Scarlet Mountains for years! They haven't been on some distant island in exile, no they have been hiding in PLAIN SIGHT!", The Doctor said rushing over to the chalk board nearly shouting. Before erasing every other location before circling and underlining: Scarlet Mountains.
"It was right in our faces the entire time. Doctor you're a genius! We now know where the hive of the changelings is!", Twilight Sparkle exclaimed.
"Ya! Now we can finally take the fight to them! I say attack them when they least expect it!", Rainbow Dash said proudly her fighting blood getting the better of her.
"No, we do not fight. We give them a chance.", The Doctor said seriously.
"WHAT!", both Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash yelled in unison.
"I always give them a chance. Now look tomorrow, I will go to these mountains myself. I will talk to Queen Chrysalis. Explain to her the situation that she is now in. She will give up this pointless dream. I will find her a planet where her Changelings can live in peace. Get my TARDIS fly back here. And we will be eating muffins by Friday.", The Doctor smirked in triumpth.
Both Twilight and Rainbow then burst out laughing. And when they tried to stop they just started having a giggle fit once more. It made it even worse the confused expression on The Doctors face as to why they were all laughing.
"Oh geez, Doc. I needed that. Phew, that was good. Man, We will be eating muffins by Friday", Rainbow Dash said imitating The Doctor before laughing again.
"What? Don't diss the plan. It's a brilliant plan!", The Doctor pouted.
"Doctor, not to sound rude. But that is a horrible idea. Queen Chrysalis more than likely will fully indoctrinate you into Changeling culture. And you will be forced to be part of The Hive. Sorry but that is by far the worst plan I ever heard.", Twilight Sparkle said still laughing.
"Well, good thing you two aren't coming.", The Doctor said blankly.
"Wait, hold on Doc you're serious!", Rainbow Dash said dumbfounded.
"Of course, everyone get's a chance. I will simply explain to The Queen the situation. And that I can find her a planet that she can live on in peace.", The Doctor shrugged indifferently
"Doc, you can't be serious. She will just capture you! I mean you heard what she said back at The Sugarcube Corner! I mean why not just put yourself on a silver plate while you are at it!", Rainbow Dash said still shocked.
"It's a chance I will take. She deserves a chance just like everyone else.", The Doctor seriously said.
"Doct-", Twilight Sparkle said before being cut off.
"No, listen to me right now. Both of you. I am doing this, end of story. Everyone gets one chance. First thing tomorrow, I am going to The Scarlet Mountains, I am getting my TARDIS back. If I fail, and I do not return....", The Doctor stated.
"Doc! I mean this is nuts! You're crazy!", Rainbow Dash cut in.
"I know, isn't it brilliant. Look if I don't make it back... Tell Ditzy I am sorry. And above all else. Tell her those muffins were the best muffins I ever had in my life. Got that?", The Doctor said in such a determined tone it was pointless to try and break his resolve.
"Wait, you're going alone! Oh come on Doc, there is crazy, and there is down right suicide!", Rainbow Dash yelled.
"Maybe, however I lived a long life. And it's time I stopped running.", The Doctor took a breath. "This isn't goodbye, I will be back. And I suppose if things do go south, well I'll think of something. I always do.", The Doctor smiled.
"I don't understand, why are you going alone Doctor!", Twilight Sparkle asked in total confusion.
"Because all jokes aside, I am totally aware of the incredible danger that is lurking in those mountains. And I am going alone. No questions asked. None of you are putting your life on the line for this old Time Lord. Got that?", The Doctor said with a gaze from those big eyes that pierced Twilight's and Rainbow's very soul.
"No way Doc! I am going with you no matter what!", Rainbow Dash said in defiance.
"No you're not. Look, I have done crazier things before. Trust me. In all honesty you would probably all just slow me down. And plus if I do fail. Then The Elements Of Harmony are the only hope Equestria has then.", The Doctor said.
"But the prophesy it said the elements couldn't help!", Twilight protested.
"I don't care. Prophesies are not set in stone. They are glimpses into a future. Time can be rewritten. I know this for a fact. I just hope I don't get captured by that insane Queen and become her.... Husband that would be really, really wonky.", The Doctor chuckled dryly.
"Plus, I will be fine. I have a plan already, don't worry. If I leave tomorrow, it's around a day's journey to the Scarlet Mountains. I should arrive by Thursday, grab my TARDIS, secure peace in Equestria and be back Friday.", The Doctor said with a confident smile.
"Doctor I refuse to allow you to go alone!", Twilight Sparkle said stomping her hoof.
"Princess, with all do respect I don't care. It would be absolutely the worst possible idea to have royalty venture into those mountains with me. It would attract unwanted attention. And only risk giving me up. And with all due respect Rainbow, your ego is dangerous. It's writing checks, your body can't cash.", The Doctor burst out laughing. While the two mares just stared at him in confusion.
"Right, no Top Gun in Equestria, whoops. Any who, I mean Rainbow, your ego would get in the way of what's important. You would probably try to throttle Queen Chrysalis first chance you get.", The Doctor said gazing at the rainbow maned pony.
"But-", The two mares said in unison.
"No but's, no maybe's, and no if's. I go alone. And that. Is. Final.", The Doctor said pronouncing the words with care.
"Anyway do you think Rarity is still up by chance?", The Doctor asked.
"Ya probably, she most likely is about to close shop what does that have to do with anything?", Twilight Sparkle asked.
"Well if I am going to drop by for a hello to the Queen of the Changelings might as well look snazzy. My suit should be done now. So I will drop by grab the suit. Prep my supplies for the journey, sleep, and be out by dawn.", The Doctor explained.
"Now if you will excuse me I have a certain fashion pony to see", The Doctor said before getting up and walking out the door.
"Twi, what are we going to do?", Rainbow Dash asked her friend.
"Well you heard him, stay here and hope for the best", Twilight Sparkle said emotionless.
"What! Not you too! We can't just leave him!", Rainbow Dash said shocked.
"He's right though Dash! I am a Princess, remember the last time a Princess got captured by Changelings!", Twilight Sparkle said gazing at her friend.
"But it's pretty much suicide! He is going to die!", Rainbow Dash protested.
"I KNOW! But if he is going on this doom driven path. We would only worsen his odds of success!", Twilight Sparkle said shouting at her friend.
Rainbow Dash looked just stunned at her friends selfishness, and without saying a word she left out the door. And flew back to her home in the clouds. Twilight meanwhile just kept thinking to her self, We can not go with him! He said it is something he must do alone. I don't know if it's pride or genuine concern for our well being. But he is right, our presence would only alert the Changelings. ......
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Meanwhile The Doctor just caught Rarity in time as she was just about to close up shop.
"Rarity wait!", The Doctor shouted galloping towards the fashion pony's store.
"Oh Doctor? Darling what brings you here at such late hours?", Rarity asked The Doctor,
"My suit? Is it finished yet?", The Doctor inquired.
"Why yes, I finished it this afternoon, I was going to give it to you tomorrow, but since you are here.", Rarity replied stepping into the back of her store to grab a freshly made blue suit with rust colored stripes with a white collared shirt and red tie.
"It is wonderful Rarity, you know I never been a big fan of nostalgia but, I have to say, I missed this suit.", The Doctor said grinning.
"Nostalgia, whatever do you mean Doctor", Rarity asked curiously.
"Oh, it's complicated. Let's just say I used to wear something like this quite a bit a long time ago. And well, I missed it so.", The Doctor said his voice trailing as he gazed upon the suit.
"By chance do you have a say light brown duster type overcoat?", The Doctor asked sheepishly.
"Actually I do, give me a minute", Rarity said as she fondled through some old box's. When finally she found it before letting out a triumphant "Ahh, here it is!", she exclaimed handing the over coat to The Doctor.
"Thank you so much Rairty, how much will this cost?", The Doctor asked.
"Oh nothing Darling, consider it a gift!", Rarity said with a smile.
"Oh come on, I can't take this for free.", The Doctor protested.
"Pish posh, I am known as the Element of Generosity, Doctor. Just think of it as a late present for your welcome-to-Ponyville party.", Rarity said waving off The Doctor.
"I will not forget this Rarity...", The Doctor said slowly.
"It is no trouble at all Doctor... Are you alright?", Rarity asked in concern.
"Huh? Oh yes, fine. Just, it's been a blast Rarity. I will....", The Doctor took a breath before continuing "Goodbye.", The Doctor said simply before giving her a nod and leaving.
"Okay... Well goodbye Doctor, I look forward to seeing you tomorrow!", Rarity exclaimed.
The Doctor gave her a goodbye wave as he then started trotting back to the library.
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The Doctor opened the door, and was bracing himself for an angry posse of ponies to, say they would accompany him no matter what tomorrow, but nothing. No one was there. Good, just saves me time., The Doctor thought to himself. He laid out his clothes on a table and started packing his supplies. Mainly Dried Fruit and other non-perishable items that he bought on the way back from a vendor. He put them in a saddle bag that he found lying around. And after he prepped for his journey for the next day. He climbed into bed. Saying a final word. Before falling asleep.
"It really has been a blast..."
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The Doctor not shockingly had another nightmare. This one was detailed about the day he lost Rose Tyler. One of his closest friends. When she fell into the void sending her to a parallel dimension. Some one he truly loved. Granted she did come back when there was the whole incident with the Earth a bunch of other planets being stolen. But the whole clone of him really made things complicated. And The Doctor, while good with complicated things, well he wasn't good at those type of complicated things. In any case, The Doctor woke up as the sun peaked over the horizon. He walked slowly down the steps. And put on his new suit and overcoat. And looked at himself in the mirror. And nodded in approval but said one thing.
"Ya know, I do miss the bow-tie..."
He gathered the his supplies, and put on the saddle bag. He took one last glance at the library he stayed in. And left. No pony was awake yet. It was still very early. Perhaps Applejack was, but no one in Ponyville was up quite yet. Which was good, The Doctor hated goodbyes... No this isn't goodbye, I will make it. I will come back, I will show Ditzy those stars. Just... Have to make past a vast army of shape shifting malevolent creatures, and who know's what on the way to the Scarlet Mountains. Just like old times... . He started took a glance towards the general direction he was meant to go in. And started walking South West. But little did he know, a certain cyan blue coated pony was watching from the clouds above.
"I don't care if you think you have to do this alone Doc, I am comin with ya, whether you know it or not.", she grinned slyly. And started flying above The Doctor as he made his journey....
To the unknown.....