> Fractured Bonds
>  by Midnight Radiance
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1: Memories and Purpose 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

		I scratch another line on the wall to represent my weeks within my small dark prison, then scratch a line through it so I will be reminded that a month had passed. I found this task quite superfluous since time meant nothing to those who are imprisoned here. For those who are imprisoned in Tartarus is life until death... and that is if they commit suicide and succeed since most of the inmates are immortal or just have an incredible life span, like yours truly. After marking the passing of another month, I inspected the wall and looked over all the other months that had passed.

I sighed deeply, “That makes twelve months... again... Making it three whole years in this dreaded place."

I clenched my teeth as my emerald green eyes turned into sharp reptilian eyes, I was flowing with pure hatred and rage while tears formed and poured down my face like a waterfall as my mind faded from my current situation and into my memories.



Within the Friendship Rainbow Kingdom, Celestia's orb of light had risen into the sky for quite some time, signaling the time of a late afternoon. The princess of friendship and her number one assistant lived and grew together, physically and mentally as their bond of friendship grows stronger. It had been four months since Twilight gained her own castle and has grown so far in life and has learned so much since then... well in other places at least. She still doesn't know how to cook.

“Spike, when will it be ready?” Twilight asked impatiently.

“Just a minute Twilight. My famous nachos only get its title from the hard work and love I put into it,” Spike said as he finished cooking the beans. Then he poured a healthy sauce into two bowls for him and his closest friend just before walking over to her.

“Finally! I've been waiting for this all morning!” Twilight said while drooling some from hunger.

Spike, chuckling from Twilight's actions, brought a big tray full of the toppings and nacho chips he hand-made to the table. “How will you survive while I'm gone Twi?” He asked as he placed the tray on the table in front of Twilight as she marveled at the offering presented to her.

“I will be fine Spike, there is plenty of instant food in the refrigerator and besides," Twilight responded as she slowly looked up at Spike with a warm smile and continued, "You will only be gone for a day and a half, counting today. Now are you ready for your trip to Canterlot?”

“Of course, I got my train ticket and my bag packed ahead of time. It's only the usual Royal Canterlot business that Princess Celestia has me doing. I honestly think she brings me up there on purpose. The work I do has nothing to do with it in my opinion.” Spike said.

Twilight laughed as she still smiled warmly. “Well, it's to be expected. She did raise you Spike and in the few letters she has sent me, she always asks how are your doing. She always knows what happens in my life, but you rarely send her letters.”

Spike sighed. “Yeah... I guess.” He sat down in front of her and then the two began eating. After they finished eating Spike stood up and began to wash the dishes as Twilight stayed at the table and watched him from behind.

She thought back to how far her number one assistant has grown with her. Princess Celestia raised him, teaching him how to cook, clean, be polite, caring and many other domestic skills as well as skills in an art such as painting, drawing and sewing. She was his mother and then what seemed to come out of nowhere, Princess Celestia made her and Spike a team. Spike was to take care of her while she studied. It was as if the princess of the sun raised Spike to be in her life, something that Twilight was forever grateful for. Twilight's thoughts were then interrupted by an outside voice.

“Did you hear me, Twilight? I said I'm off after I'm done here,” Spike repeated.

Twilight shook her head, bringing herself back to the real world, “Oh, yes, sorry Spike, I was lost in thought,” Twilight said with a big smile then continued as she looked down at the table, “I'm just glad that we met.” She said quietly but loud enough for Spike to hear.

“Same here,” Spike, smiled as precious memories flooded through his mind then continued, “If it wasn't for my mother arranging me to be your assistant, my life would have never gotten to be this awesome,” he said as he finished the dishes.

Twilight giggled, “Awesome? You think fighting Nightmare Moon, Discord, Changelings, and Tirek is fun? Rainbow Dash's personality must have rubbed off on you over the years.”

Spike smirked then responded, “Maybe so... and I like it!” He said proudly.

Twilight grinned, “Well, don't let that attitude get you into trouble in Canterlot.”

Spike smiled, “I'm always on my best behavior”. He walked over to the door and grabbed his bag and turned around to face Twilight as she got up and was heading to the door. “I'll see you soon princess, he winked at her, causing Twilight to blush lightly from his action.



Spike stood at the wall with his head low, full of despair and hate. “Friendship is Magic... heh yeah right...” Spike said sarcastically. Then all of a sudden he heard a voice from behind him, just outside of his cage.

“You say friend, I say foe... There can never be a bond with friendship. It is nothing more than a temporary control over another,” Said a cloaked figure.

Spike who was startled by the sudden voice turned around in his cell until he noticed a being standing outside his cage. “Who are you?” Spike demanded with a shaken tone.

“I am the one who hates friendship just as much as you child.” The cloaked figure responded.

“What? You don't know anything about me,” Spike said back.

“I don't have to know you personally to know that you were betrayed by your friends. Don't deny it.” The cloaked figure responded.

Spike didn't respond, but he clenched his fists tightly, non-verbally telling this unknown figure he was right.

“Come... and join me... and I will give you something that is worth far more than.. friendship.” The cloaked figured said the last word with a bit more disgust in his voice.

“And what would that be?” Spike asked curiously as he inspected the cloaked figure.

“Power!" The cloaked figure responded back and then continued, “It's the one thing that won't betray you and can get you whatever you desire, so what do you say, child?”

Spike was silent for a while then grinned and responded, "You got yourself a deal, but tell me, what is in it for you?”

"First off, my freedom, and second is to become powerful once again." The cloaked figured said.

Spike nodded his head, “I see. So you want me to help you regain your former strength?”

"All in due time, but freedom comes first.” The cloaked figure charged up a magic ball in his mouth, putting all the magic he currently contained and then shot the magic on a lock that bonded Spike's cage, making the lock shatter.

Once Spike was set free, the cloaked figure looked up at him then lead Spike to the very edge of the dimension they were in. In this area, contained two large pony statues that were clad in ancient armor, no doubt from Celestia's past. Each statue was on the right and left of the edge of the cliff and then below that was a never ending dark abyss.

Spike walked over to the edge of the cliff and looked down.”Where are we?”

"We are at the junction between this dimension and the world of light, where Equestria resides."

“Interesting, why would you bring me here?” Spike asked curiously.

“This place is guarded by powerful magic that prevents anyone from escaping. The guards and princess are the only ones who are able to open the portal at will and that is where you come in. You're a dragon with a very special dragonic abilites .”

“Hmm... and you need me to use my ability to cut a way into Equestria?” Spike responded.

“Precisely," The cloaked figure said eagerly as freedom is within his grasp the continued, "Do you think you can handle this task?”

Spike studied the statues then held out his claw as emerald green aura emerged from it. “Keep up your end of the deal and freedom is yours.”

The cloaked figure's eyes glowed a dark yellow as he spoke with eager in his voice. “All the power you could ever want will soon be in your grasp. Now do it!”

Spike upon hearing those words slashed out at both of the statues a few feet away. The green aura from his claws went out with the slash, forming a blade of green energy that effortlessly sliced through the heads stone statues. Soon after there was a huge explosion of sound, that rivaled Rainbow Dash's Sonic Rainboom. From the explosion a vortex formed by pulling wind vacuum.

The cloaked figure stood by Spike in amazement. “Magnificent, child!”

Spike nodded then responded to the cloaked figure while looking slightly down at him out of the corner of his eye, “My name is Spike, Spike The Dragon.”

“And you may call me..." the cloaked figure slowly removed the hood of his cloak. "Tirek! And from this day forward we shall gain what is rightfully ours!”

Spike's eyes widened a bit but quickly went back to normal then nodded as he looked at the spiraling vortex, so many things were going through his mind at the moment, but there was one memory that took center stage in his mind.



Deep within Canterlot on a private trial, Spike Dragon lost the against Prince Blueblood and now awaits punishment.

“How many times do I have to say I didn't do it?!”

Spike stood in the center of a pitch black room with the only light coming from a circular light that shined from high above him. Special red glowing chains that are specifically made to contain dragons restricted his moments as the chains were strapped to his wrists with the red chain leading to the ground. All in attendance was The Elements of Harmony, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Prince Blueblood and a group of royal guards who had their spears at the ready.

Twilight and her friends walked up and stood over Spike and looked down at him in disgust. Twilight was the first to speak as Princess Celestia stood in the darkness with her head held down in shame.

“I can't believe you would do something so cruel. I saw you as my closest friend. You helped me get through so much. You bring shame to me, my title “the Princess of Friendship”, to Canterlot and to the royal family.”

“T-Twilight please listen to me.” Tears formed in Spike's eyes as he pleaded with someone he loved as a sister. "I'm telling you, I didn't kill Fleur. I was nowhere near her-"

“Lies!” Prince Blueblood shouted in pure rage as he charged at Spike only to be stopped by two guards who kept him at bay from assaulting Spike. "You filthy beast, you took the love of my life right in front of me and you even tried to kill me too!”

“Spike”, Princess Luna spoke, “her heart was pierced by dragon claws. We even did a DNA test and found your DNA on her”.

“I was with Shin-”

Spike was soon cut off by Twilight. “Stop using my brother's name and stop trying to use him as an excuse!” Twilight said in anger. "Shining Armor did say you were with him, but that was minutes later!"

“S-S-So I couldn't have murdered Fleur. She was in one of the chambers that was a very long walk from where me and Shining-”. Spike was suddenly cut off by a magically enhanced slap from Twilight that was so strong that Spike would have flown back a few feet if it wasn't for the powerful red chains keeping him bounded to the ground.

“Didn't you hear what I just said?! Stop using his name!"

Spike looked at the ground as he winced from the pain and then began to cry. Spike continued to look at the ground as his tears soaked the floor and spoke to the other five girls that surrounded him. “Why are you all so quiet... I-I thought we were friends..."

“What else is there to say to a savage beast like you?” Said Rarity.

“She's right ya know, and talkin' any further is rather pointless. You're getting what you deserve.” Applejack, spoke as she looked down at him.

“I actually believed you were different from the rest of your kind, but Rarity is right. You're nothing but a savage beast!” Fluttershy spoke as she gave Spike her stare.

Both Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash remained silent, not wishing to speak to them. Then suddenly Rainbow Dash finally spoke, not to Spike, but to Twilight. “Can we speed this up? I'm sick of looking at him!” Rainbow Dash said as she looked at him with disgust.

“Not yet Rainbow, the princess wants to have her final moment with him.” Twilight looked back at Celestia as she calmly walked forward in a dignified fashion, causing the other girls to step back to give her plenty of space.

Upon seeing Celestia, Spike rose up from the ground and looked her in the eyes. “M-Mom, please I-”. Spike froze as Celestia placed her hand on his chest.

Celestia looked into Spike's eyes with a cold glare and spoke, “Spike, for the crime against Canterlot, for not only killing Fleur De Lis in cold blood but also attempting murder on royalty, Prince Blueblood, I hereby banish you from Equestria and sentence you to life in Tartarus until death and I hereby remove my link you have connected to me, forever severing the magic bond we had.” Her hand glowed brightly as a bright white light shined through the room, briefly revealing all of the guards who was hidden in the dark with their weapons aimed at Spike, should he attempt escaping or assault. The light faded as the magic bond Spike had with Celestia faded.

Spike winced from the feeling. It felt like a piece of his heart was removed. Princess Celestia removed her hand from his chest then she concentrated magic into her horn as she prepared to send Spike away. Two guards walked up to his sides then one of the guards spoke as he bowed down, “Princess Cadence has sent me and one of the guards in her stead. Her words were that she couldn't bare to watch a once hero of the Crystal Empire get punished for a crime that is unfit for his title.”

Celestia looked down upon the guard and nodded. “I completely understand, this is quite painful. Now then, what is your name, will you remove the chains from the ground?”

The guard stood up with a serious expression. “Flash Sentry, your highness, and I would be honored to." He turned to Spike and looked at him with hate as the other guard removed the chain from the left side of him. "The Crystal Empire looked to you as a hero and savior, but now.... you're nothing but a murderer. You don't deserve your noble title...” Flash then removed the last chain on his right side and stepped back as Celestia covered Spike in her yellow magic and teleported him in a blinding light to Tartarus, but not before giving him her final words.

“I made a grave mistake to mother a creature like you. You were better off living with your own kind. I am truly sorry it had to come to this.”

Spike lost the will to move as those words pierced his heart as the bright yellow light swallowed him, teleporting him into Tartarus and soon was sealed within a jail cell once Celestia's magic wore off. Spike immediately ran for the metal bars in an attempt to break free, but was soon shocked and burned from the metal bars, this threw Spike back as he clenched his hands in extreme pain as a hologram of Celestia appeared in front of him and spoke, “Spike, this is nothing more than a recording I had left. I had this cage made specifically for dragons, as you probably know. The bars are made of a special iron, that is a dragon's poison and the wall behind you is indestructible. I'm sorry such measures had to be taken, but for the sake of Equestria, I must look past bonds I have with others... Nightmare Moon is an example of how far I will go... So good by Spike The Dragon..." She closed her eyes in solemn. "...forever.” The hologram ended and Spike collapsed on the ground with no will to live and cried.



A sinister smirk grew on Spike's face as he looked at the vortex and spoke. “Let's go, there is so much to change and I plan to completely destroy the bonds I once had and I intend to make them truly understand my hatred, pain, and despair...”

“Then from this day forward a new era will fall upon Equestria..."

The two entered the portal and for the first time in years for Spike, he left Tartarus and had a desire. To crush all that he cherished and start anew.
> Chapter 2: Origins
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	It has been three years since Spike and Tirek escaped from Tartarus and their whereabouts remained unknown. Not even with all the power Princess Celestia and Luna held could locate them, but that didn't stop them from trying.

“Your highness! I'm sorry, but the search was a failure again.” Shining Armor told Princess Celestia while shaking his head.

“It is okay. I'm sorry for overworking you and your squad. Please have you and your subordinates take the night off.” Princess Celestia spoke as she stood up from her throne.

“Yes, your highness! Thank you.”  Shining Armor bowed before leaving.

"I wonder how Lulu's doing?" Celestia thought as her horn glowed brightly, teleporting her into her dimension where she is able to watch all past events of her followers.

“Where art thou....Where art thou!?” An exhausted dark blue alicorn stood in front of several magical TV monitors that showed all of the inhabitants that existed within Equestria. Her eyes were very baggy and red, and her mane laid flat down her back, no longer having that ethereal glow. She squeezed her wrist tightly in a failed attempt to stir her from her creeping sleep. “We failed... again...”

“Luna, you need to get some sleep. When was the last time you went to bed?” Celestia asked as she approached Luna from behind as she kept scanning the magic monitors.

“I can't sleep sister...” Luna turned from the monitor to look at Celestia. “How can I sleep, knowing that Spike and even worse, Tirek are out in the world, doing who knows what... It's been three years since their escape and their location still alludes us.”

“I know... I feel the same, but if we can't locate them through dreams or through these monitors then it means that they... are no longer in Equestria.”

“I have increased the security on the borders of the country, so if they were to be seen, we would know, but there is only so much we can do. That dragon, I can't believe he would do such a thing. I thought him living among ponies would mean his draconic urges would be dulled down. I guess I was wrong. We all were...”

“I understand Luna, but if Spike were to return, we would know,” Celestia said as she placed a hand on her sister's shoulder. “Come on, time for bed. And besides, you need to be well rested for the upcoming wedding.  We must make preparations.”

“You don't have to treat me as a filly, sister. I-” Luna yawned deeply then lowered her head. "Fine, I shall rest. Good night sister.” Luna's horn glowed a sparkling blue and she teleported away in a midnight flash.

Celestia stood in the center of her monitors, preparing to leave until one particular monitor caught her attention.



Princess Celestia stood in front of a table that had a large purple egg with darker spots covering it. A smile crept on her face as she prepared to use her magic on it.

“Sister, are you certain you didn't want to leave that egg where it was?"

“Yes Luna, this poor egg was left out in the cold. No one to take of it. No one to fill this unborn child with love."

“I understand your need to guide and nurture Tia, but this is a dragon's egg. Dragons are prone to greed and destruction. Do you think you can change that?"

“Yes, I do. And if things work out, this child could be the bridge between both races and help be a beacon of peace. Now please sister, I must concentrate.” Celestia's horn started to glow as bright as the sun, energy surging off of her horn.

Luna covered her eyes as Celestia's magic shot from her horn and hit the egg dead on. Soon the egg burst open and from it a purple dragon with small green spikes laid there, stretching.

"Aww so cute." Celestia cooed as she lowered her magic to look at the baby dragon, who looked around then started sucking on his tail.

“What shall you name him?” Luna asked as she approached the dragon.

Celestia reached out and picked the dragon up and held him close to her bosom, paying close attention to the green spikes that acted as hair on his head. “I will name him... Spike.”

Luna shook her head and spoke in a sarcastic tone. “That sounds very creative sister. How do you do it?”

“Hush sister, this name suits him well.” Celestia smiled as she watched the baby dragon suck on his tail more. “You will be the jewel of Equestria, Spike. I know you will bring great things to everyone around, and create an everlasting bond.”

As Celestia watched the events of her past she felt tears go down her cheek. ”Spike, where did I go wrong? I really should have left you where you laid. I should have realized you were a danger to my ponies. As you grew, so did your powers. Fighting King Sombra should have been an alarm to me, but I saw you as my son, as family and not as a threat... Next time we meet, I will have to do what needs to be done for Equestria. Spike... please forgive me.”



Far Away

A huge explosion occurred sending powerful shockwaves through the air, creating ash and smoke then leaving red and green flames on the ground.

“Good Spike! Your mastery of fire has greatly improved over the years. But how will you do against this?” Tirek’s horns glowed as red energy sparked around it like electricity as a big orb of red magical energy fired from the center space between them at the dragon, only for a green wave of fire to slice through it, cutting the energy blast in half. The separated energy sphere then hit the ground behind the dragon, causing an explosion. “You're getting stronger day by day. You will soon be ready to erase your past!” Tirek was much stronger and bigger than he was three years ago.

“It's all thanks to you Lord Tirek. Without you, I would have never had gotten this strong.” As the smoke cleared Spike stood there, wearing a black robe. His body grew much bigger, even outperforming Celestia, but with a slight difference. His muscles were more defined, thanks to his training over the years, giving his body a natural proportion.

Tirek smirked at the compliment then replied with another blast of magic, this hit Spike dead on, or would have if Spike didn't hold up his claws to block it. The energy started to burn slightly at his hands as he held the blast back. The force of the energy causing would have made Spike burn terribly by now, but because of his dragon nature and tough scales he was fine. The force made him grind against the stone floor below his feet as he was pushed back.

“I can do this! Just like before!!!” From both of Spike's claws came green fire that swirled around Tirek's energy blast and in an instant it vanished. It reappeared behind him and made its way towards the stone wall behind them, creating a powerful explosion that sent rubble and smoke flying. Spike then inspected his hands and saw the slight magical burns as his wounds slowly started to heal, thanks to one of his magical dragon powers. It would have been worse if it wasn't for his dragon scales.

“Your powers are greatly improving Spike." Tirek crossed his arms and grew a smirk. "Hmph, how ironic, the transportation magic that allows you to send objects across any distance, that was used to send letters between ponies will now be used to destroy them!” Spike turned to Tirek to listen more, he grew to enjoy Tirek's belittlement of his once so called mother and his friends. “Spike, your transportation powers was limited because of that spell Celestia placed on you. Your power was tamed to only transport objects between her and Twilight. But now that her magic is gone, you have taken your powers further, much more than I thought you would in just three years. Your magical power is boiling.”

“Thanks.” Spike stretched, causing a few of his bones to make pop and crack then started to walk off towards the exit of their base. “I'm taking a break for today. That's enough training.”

“Right, you should. We must collect more unicorns that exist outside of Equestria before we confront the princesses. I have a location I will be heading too soon, called Maremiscyra.”

“Maremiscyra? Isn't that place just a myth?” Spike asked quizzically.

“Yes, to those who exist now in this time frame. But thousands of years ago, Maremiscyra was well known. Filled with warrior mares which I know will be a great power boost, but the rest of their history and knowledge is unnecessary. They are nothing but food to me.”

Spike nodded and walked off not responding, going to his room to get a new black robe to put on to replace the worn out one he wore during his training with Tirek. After he was finished he walked out of the room and entered the main room that had a massive purple crystal orb in the center of the floor with purple smoke swerving around in it. The room was also lit with torches and doorways led to different locations within the base. Spike closed his eyes briefly then opened them as he held out his hand, creating a green flame that started to swirl around his body very fast.

“Where are you going, Spike? Tirek asked, but knew as he saw the look on Spike's face.

“I'm going to reconfirm my rage, reminding myself of my ambition.” And with that last sentence, Spike vanished from the lair. 
> Chapter 3: The Wedding
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight walked around in pure darkness, hearing only the echoes of her hooves hitting the floor beneath her. She was alone and had no idea where she was.

“Princess Celestia? Anyone? Is a-anyone there?” Twilight yelled aloud as she got worried, only to receive no answer to her question. 

It was silent for seconds when one voice did call out to her.

“I thought... we were friends...” Said a voice in the darkness, with no clear source from where the voice came from.

It sounded sad.

“H-Huh? But we are friends!” Spoke a frantic Twilight as she tried to find the source of the one speaking to her. She didn't know who was talking, but it sounded like a friend to her. 

“Then how could you betray me Twilight!?”

Twilight immediately jumped and swirled around to meet face to face with Spike. “S-Spike...” Twilight stood in front of her once treasured friend.

“I trusted you... I... loved you and you couldn't see that I... was framed...” Spike looked down, his face showing great depression as his eyes started to water.

“Spike... I-”

“Is friendship truly magical? Because.... I feel like it's a curse...” Spike's eyes started to glow a bright green as he revealed his dragon fangs and continued, "That will consume you all"!

Spike started to grow into a full-sized dragon, towering over Twilight, forcing her to look in terror. When he stopped growing, he grabbed her with his claw and brought her up to his eye level and looked at her straight in the eyes.

Twilight screamed in utter fear as she tried to free herself from his powerful grip. “P-please Spike, forgive me! I should have had more faith in you!”

“You must live with this curse for the rest of your life!” Spike snarled as he glared at her. “Tell mother she was right. She should have never mothered a monster like me.” Spike then opened his mouth, showing his sharp set of teeth. He tossed Twilight inside and swallowed her whole. Twilight screamed as she fell into the darkness of Spike's being.

“AHHH!” Twilight screamed at the top of her lungs, so high that it shook the very room she was in as she leaned up quickly in her bed as sweat poured down her face and body from her night terror.

“Will these dreams ever end...?” Twilight panted. She looked down as she tried to calm her pounding heart, wiping the sweat from her head.

“It has been five years since these dreams started to occur, and I'm afraid tis even beyond my power to completely shut it away, Twilight Sparkle.” Princess Luna floated in through the window for the second time this week and landed down in front of Twilight's bed.

“P-Princess Luna... I just... I just don't get it.” Twilight covered her face as tears started to stream down her cheeks.

“I believe I understand. These dreams of yours, is your mind having doubt in your actions during Spike's trial. Celestia used to have such dreams, but that stopped two years back when she finally accepted what she did and realized that it needed to be done. Spike is a serious threat that murdered in cold blood and now that he's free, there is no telling what he will do, especially now that he is with Tirek. And we all know how dangerous he is.“

“Yes, I get it... It's just really hard to accept is all.” Twilight looked up at Princess Luna as she wiped the tears from her face. “Me and Spike... were really close... close as family... maybe even more.” Twilight clenched her fist as she remembered Spike's plead to believe him.

“You... loved Spike didn't you?” Princess Luna asked as she kept her stoic expression.

Hearing that question only pushed Twilight into a more depressed state. “ Y-Yes... I guess you could say that... When Princess Celestia assigned him to be my assistant, I really didn't care. He was nothing more than a servant to fetch me whatever I asked for, but as time went on I saw him more than that. Even though I would have never admitted it to him or myself back then, he was my friend, my very first friend and I treasured that, as much as a dragon would for gems.”

“W-When Spike tried to p-plead his case I... I just felt so angry.” Twilight's hands started trembling as she thought back to slapping Spike and yelling at him. “When I stood in front of Spike, all I felt was a burning rage inside me. I felt an anger that I've never felt before... Spike meant so much to us and the evidence pointed to him that it was undeniable, so for him to do such a thing..."

“I understand Twilight, Spike means a lot to you, just as much as he does to us. It breaks our hearts to see someone we care for to fall.” Princess Luna walked towards Twilight and placed her hand upon hers. “Give it time Twilight. These dreams will go away in time once you accept the truth of Spike."

Twilight nodded in response as she tried to smile. “Th-Thank you Princess Luna.”

“You're welcome Princess Twilight Sparkle. Now please get some rest. We must be prepared for the wedding, later on, tonight.” Princess Luna then walked towards the window as she spread her wings preparing to take off.

Before she had a chance to take off, Twilight asked, “Princess, did you... accept what happened with Spike?”

Princess Luna stood there with her back towards Twilight, motionless as she became lost in thought. She lowered her head and spoke, “I must... even if I didn't want to.” Luna looked back at Twilight, an expression of sadness on her face. “Even if we don't want to accept it, it did happen Twilight... Just stay strong. Guilt is an enemy of the mind, an enemy that must not win... That we must not let win.”

“I won't, and thanks. See you later in Canterlot.” Twilight yawned some and got comfortable, preparing to go to sleep.

“Yes, I shall see you later.” Luna then flew out of the window and went back to Canterlot to prepare for the event to come.



Later that morning, as the sun rose high in the sky, Fluttershy was already up taking care of her animals.



“Good morning Mr. Cock and Ms. Hen, how are you? Are you hungry?” Fluttershy asked the chickens before her. The chickens then nodded in response and clucked which Fluttershy responded by pouring bird food on the ground for them, making sure to feed the other hens that were in the area and those who were still inside the chicken coop.

As Fluttershy stood aside and watched the birds eat, she remembered about Tirek and how he was free along with Spike. Her mind wandered through her memories as she thought back to Spike's trial. 

Fluttershy stood there over her ex-dragon friend with her friends surrounding him.

“Why are you all so quiet... I-I thought we were friends...” Spike asked as he looked up at the ones he considered friends.

Fluttershy just stood there and looked at him. So much was going through her mind. “ I... I know Spike wouldn't do something like this... I was one of the first to have spoken up before his trial. We had to look at the evidence, so... he couldn't have... no... no he had to have done it, he must have, there is no way he couldn't have not done it... That dragon...” The more Fluttershy looked at Spike, the more pain and conflict she had. Fluttershy then opened her mouth to speak and what came from her mouth was fueled by hate.

“I actually believed you were different from the rest of your kind, but Rarity is right. You're nothing but a savage beast!” Fluttershy spoke while giving him the stare, peering straight into his soul and what she found were pain and despair. He wanted to be trusted, to be held, shielding his heart from the cold atmosphere around him. A part of her wanted to hold him and the other part, which was stronger, wanted nothing more than to throw Spike to Tartarus once and for all.

Fluttershy's thought's were interrupted by an impatient rabbit who was slamming his foot on her hoof. “Oh! Sorry Angel, I'll feed you right away.” She took Angel inside to fix him his special salad. She looked through her refrigerator for the ingredients to create Angel's salad, once she did she turned around with a smile. “Angel, I almost forgot. Later tonight is the sleepover we will be having with our animal friends. I'm not sure I will be back in time to help with the sleepover, so I will need you to make sure everything is ready for tonight. Don't worry about groceries I will take care of all of that."

Angel looked at his master with great annoyance but complied in the end.

Speaking of groceries Fluttershy searched high and low for the ingredients she uses for Angel's special salad, only to find out that she doesn't have all the ingredients to make it, so she rushed out of her cottage to the farmers market to shop while on the way one thought came across her mind. “I need to hurry. I must be prepared for the wedding tonight.”




Celestia's sun had risen enough to shine through the apple orchard of Sweet Apple Acres. The Apple family were well known for rising with the sun, so they could get to their daily chores and during this time Applejack was up on the hill, leaning against an apple tree, watching the sun rise. It was one of her favorite things to do to start off her morning, like having a cup of coffee to start the day. As Applejack watched the morning sky, she soon was lost in thought. Hearing Spike had escaped from Tartarus had her worried. What could he be doing and why couldn't she shake this feeling of guilt?

Standing in front of Spike, all she felt was anger, and when he spoke, all she felt was disgust. The evidence pointed right at Spike, his words and his body language said he didn't do it, but her mind wouldn't accept it.

"He had to have done it... no, there is no way he could... no,” Applejack mumbled to herself as Spike was pleading with Twilight, tears going down his face.

“Why are you all so quiet... I-I thought we were friends..."

After Rarity made her response, Applejack made hers and what came out of her mouth was something she never thought she would say to her dragon friend. “She's right ya know. And talkin' any further is rather pointless. You're getting what you deserve...” 

Applejack was then shaken from her thoughts as she heard her brother call out to her.

“AJ, are ya going to help me with these or not?” Big Mac asked as he carried two barrels of apples in his arms.

“Huh, what? How long was I standin' there?” Applejack questioned as she realized that the sun had shifted in the sky a bit as she stood there.

“For a while, 'bout five minutes, but hey, we need to work harder today so we can finish up and get ready for your friend's wedding.” Big Mac said as he walked through the orchard and towards the barn.

“Oh yeah, your right. Let's get to it!” Applejack spoke as she put on her work gloves and went to work, knocking apples out of the trees.





Within the city of Canterlot rests one of the most well-known fashion shop in Equestria, Canterlot Carousal, and within it stood the owner herself.

“At last! It's been a rough road, but finally, the day has come! This will be the wedding of weddings that Canterlot will have ever come to witness!” Rarity pranced around the room in delight as she gathered gems of different colors.

“I'm glad for you Rarity, but... you should really relax. All of our customers are getting uncomfortable.” Sassy Saddles spoke as she glanced at the nervous ponies who shuffled out of the way of Rarity.

“Oh! Sassy Saddles, you MUST come to my wedding! Everyone in Canterlot will be there and of course, this shop will be closing early, so you will have plenty of time to make it. You must come.” Rarity stopped by the door as she turned back to get a response.

“O-Of course miss Rarity.” Sassy smiled widely “I wouldn't miss it for the world. I still can't believe you're going to marry him of all ponies!”

Rarity giggled loudly “I know! It's been rough, but things have changed so much for both of us. He really is my true love.” Rarity then placed her hand on the doorknob and opened the front door. “Well, I'll see you tonight!” And with that Rarity exited Canterlot Carousal and walked down the streets of the city.

As Rarity walked down the Canterlot streets. She stopped when she noticed Canterlot Castle then started to head towards it because it held the room she was staying at for the event. As she walked into the castle she had many memories in that place, mostly when Twilight had to come and bring the Elements of Harmony for a threat or another, but one memory she had hit her the most and every time she thought about it, she just wished it was a bad dream.





When she was summoned to the castle, by Princess Celestia, it was of an urgent matter and all of her friends had to be there.

“We're here, Princess Celestia!” Twilight spoke as she and her friends ran into the throne room.

“Thank you for coming, my loyal subjects. I am sorry for summoning so abruptly, but this concerns you all.” Celestia spoke as she walked down the steps from her throne, towards Twilight and her friends.

“What's wrong, Princess?” Twilight asked as Celestia stopped in front of them.

“I recently got word that... Tirek escaped from Tartarus... again.”

“WHAT!?" The entire Main Six yelled in unison, save for Fluttershy, as she only whimpered in fear while hiding behind her mane.

“Yes, but... that's not all.” Celestia took a deep breath before speaking again. “I've also received information that... Spike has escaped as well. We have reason to believe that they are working together.”

The entire room suddenly became quiet as looks of shock and terror came upon the Mane Six until Twilight opened her mouth to speak.

“S-Spike e-escaped?” Twilight choked the last words out as the look of a panic attack was preparing to come.

Rainbow Dash clenched her fist tightly and spoke. “Then as his ex-friends, it is our duty to stop him.”

“Dashie is right. A-As his friends we must do what's right...” Pinkie Pie quivered as her hair deflated. “I don't like this at all... but it must be done.”

“I-Isn't there anything we can do to help him? What about the Rainbow Power?” Fluttershy asked, very uneasy.

“The only thing we can do is capture him and put him back in Tartarus. I know it is difficult, but it must be done. I want you six to take it easy. My sister and I shall handle finding Tirek and Spike and I shouldn't have to say this, but I'm sure you will contact me the moment you find anything of their whereabouts." Celestia spoke as she looked at Twilight.

“Of course princess. You will be the first to know." Twilight spoke as she looked at Celestia.

Celestia nodded her head. “Very well, I will have Luna search the dreams of Equestria while I search my Ethereal Plane monitors.” Celestia's horn started to glow, until our next meeting young ones.” And in an instant, she vanished in a yellow light.





Rarity's mind wandered in her memories. She stood in her room and sighed deeply as she looked at the floor. "Spike... these six years without you have been tough... not just on me, but all of our friends. Twilight struggled in life without you. You did everything for her and so she had to learn to care for herself when you left. Rainbow Dash and Applejack, even though they never admit it, they miss you as well. You helped them so much in their lives, like helping Rainbow prepare for her various races and Applejack on her farm... You even helped Pinkie Pie with her cakes and even tested her proclaimed masterpieces. Fluttershy feared dragons and you helped her get over that fear... well sort of. She got used to being around you at least and even went out of her way to save you when you went on your dragon rampage. And you even helped me."

Rarity moved towards her dresser and pulled out a black box with a key. She then opened the box and looked down at a gold necklace with a heart-shaped ruby in the center.

"Spike... I never truly realized how much of an effect you had on our lives.... You always helped me. You went out of your way and used your status as Princess Twilight's assistant to get in contact with sophisticated ponies who had big things going on in their lives, and you managed to bring them to my shop. Sapphire Shores, someone who wants the best of the best would have never come to my shop if it wasn't for you... You helped me get so far life that you were vital to my success... Canterlot Carousal was extremely difficult to start... When I started, I struggled to keep the shop open, there were times I wanted to close the shop, to quit, but then I found him and he helped me keep my shop open, but still I can't help but think that things would have been smoother if you were by my side.” Rarity's eyes began to water some as she creased the Fire Ruby in her hand, tracing the outline of the gem.

Suddenly there was a knock on the door and a guard slowly opened it. "Miss Rarity, lunch will be ready soon and all preparations for tonight have been taken care off." He told in his low voice.

“O-Oh thank you.” Rarity wiped her eyes quickly and placed the necklace away then turned around. “I will have my lunch in my room. Please bring my wedding dress to me when it is ready.

“Certainly, ma'am.” The guard nodded and closed the door.

Rarity sat on her bed and looked out the window. She shook her head of her depressing thoughts. “Don't think of such things Rarity, not on your special day!” Rarity took a deep breathe and laid back on her bed. “I'll just take a quick nap until my lunch is brought, and then the wedding of a lifetime will begin."





It was during the time Luna's moon took the spotlight in the star lit sky, creating a perfect scenery in Canterlot, for it was a big event. All the nobles from Canterlot and various species beyond to the very edges of Equestria came to bear witness to one of the most memorable moments in Equestria history soon to come. 

Celestia's nephew, Prince Blueblood was to marry one of Ponyville's finest, Rarity, the Element of Generosity. In the east tower of the Canterlot castle, Celestia stood out on a balcony, looking up into the night sky as Luna floated down beside her.

“Is everything prepared?” Celestia asked her sister.

“Yes sister. The preparations are complete.” Luna folded her arms as she looked down over the kingdom, next to her sister, enjoying the night sky she has created. “Not only is Equestria's borders guarded, but also the kingdom. Plus while my night guards will watch the night sky, you will have your royal guards will be guarding the inside since they are apart of the wedding.”

Celestia nodded and then spoke. “Very well then. We better get ready. The wedding will start in a few minutes and our nephew wants me to make a stage for his big entrance...” She says in annoyance.

“I still can't believe Rarity would marry him of all stallions... Love is love I guess.” Luna turned around and proceed to walk out with Celestia right behind her.



During the beginning of the wedding, Celestia stood at the alter in a regal fashion while to her left, Twilight and her friends stood there as Rarity's brides maids and to Celestia's right was Prince Blueblood's "friends" as his best colts.

As the music played, Shining Armor and his subordinates walked in, in a militaristic fashion.

As the guards walked Lyra gasped as she shook Bon Bon. “Look Bon Bon look, it's Silver Guard! That pony there with the black mane with the silver streak in his hair! He is so handsome! I heard he was the one who arrested Spike after Spike killed Prince Blueblood's girlfriend.”

“I know I know. I heard the news as well Lyra. Apparently he was quick to act when going after Spike. I guess it pays to have royal guards with you at all times. Now relax, your shaking is making me dizzy!” Bon Bon's eyes started to swirl some, causing Lyra to stop.

“Oops, sorry Bon Bon.” Lyra giggle as she went back to staring Silver Guard.

Once Shining Armor made his way to the last row of chairs near the alter, he turned to face his squad as they saluted. Each one separated from their single file line and stood at each row in the center isle of the room then held out their right hand and pointed it upwards in front of him, creating a tunnel like fashion. At that moment the music suddenly changed and everyone's chattering came to a stop as Prince Blueblood made his way down the isle. He wore a black and gold tux with the most magnificent diamonds that Canterlot could offer around the collar. The light shined off the gems in a way that made everyone in the room yell their ooh and ahhhs, all except Rarity's friends and the royal sisters who stared at him in annoyance. It's Prince Blueblood after all....so this wasn't a surprise.

“I can't believe we're related to him, sister...” Princess Luna whispered to Celestia.

“Just smile Luna. This will be over soon.” Celestia spoke.

As Prince Blueblood walked he had a smug look on his face until he got to the alter. He stopped in front of his aunts and stood with elegance. Soon after, Rarity walked out on to the isle. She wore a long white wedding dress with gold trimmings around the chest area  with golden flowers on her veil. Everyone's eyes were soon drawn to her beauty. They were at a loss for words as she walked with grace with a smile upon her face as she thought of the current event.

"Finally! This hour, I, Rarity, will marry true love! This is just as how I envisioned it. This dream is real!" Rarity smiled brightly as her eyes glistened liked polished diamonds as she stopped beside Prince Blueblood and looked around to see Sassy Saddles sitting beside Fancy Pants before looking at the Princess.

As Celestia spoke the formalities of the ceremony,  something made Rarity's mind anywhere but the solar princess.

"What is this... strange feeling... I feel like someone is staring at me...intently. It's so different from the other eyes on me... No, these eyes feel... different. What is this feeling-" Rarity's thoughts were interrupted as Celestia called her name.

“Now is the part you say 'I do' Rarity.” Celestia whispered to her.

Rarity blushed some from the embarrasment, then opened her mouth and spoke. “I do.”

Celestia nodded her head and looked down at Flurry Heart who held the rings. She then looked at Prince Blueblood, waiting for him to pick up the rings.

Rarity cleared her throat and nodded her head at Prince Blueblood, trying to tell him to get the rings.

Prince Blueblood smiled with such an arrogant tone that greatly annoyed Rarity to the point she wanted to walk out, but she didn't want to make a scene, so she used her magic to take the rings and slide them on their horns instead. After that was done, Celestia smiled and spoke.

“You may now kiss the bride.”

Prince Blueblood smiled as he leaned in and lifted Rarity's veil and kissed her on the lips. This was all Rarity could ever wish for in life. A kiss that felt like 1000 suns exploding one after another and it came from him! The stallion of her dreams... that turned into a nightmare, but then turned into a dream again, Prince Blueblood!

As Rarity melted into the kiss, she knew she couldn't let the kiss last too long or things would get awkward, so reluctantly she pulled away with a visible blush on her face.

“How was that my fine Rarity?” Prince Blueblood asked in a low whisper as he smiled, gazing into her eyes.

“T-That was... amazing.” Rarity stared back into his eyes, getting lost in her love daze as she fluttered her eyes at him.

As they stood there, everyone started to stand up, clapping and taking pictures of them. As time went on, everyone wanted to get a picture of Rarity and Prince Blueblood and even pictures of the princesses and the brides maids. This eventually led to the massive throne room where the wedding reception was being held.

During the wedding reception, Rarity stood with her friends as they kept praising her for her marriage.

“Congratulations again, Rarity! I have to throw a party for you. This is so amazing!” Pinkie Pike spoke as she bounce around in one spot.

“Thank you, darling. I'm just so happy that this has finally happened. I am now married to him!" Rarity giggled as she looked back at Prince Blueblood who was talking to other noble ponies, one of them being Fancy Pants.

Rarity stopped giggling and turned her attention to Twilight. “So Twilight, when are you and Flash Sentry going to tie the knot?” Rarity grinned at her now blushing friend.

“W-Well, I-I don't know. I mean, we've only been dating for a year and all and-” Twilight was cut off by Rarity as she spoke.

“Yes, but you knew him for six years. You know, ever since the trial.”

“I... I know, but I've also been very busy with the work Princess Celestia has given me. Ever since I became an Alicorn, things have become very rough and Flash has become second in command of the crystal guards, so our schedules are really conflicting.” Twilight forced a laugh through her sad expression. “I mean, I don't have an assistant anymore. The last one quit after the humongous work load I put on them.”

Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Applejack and Fluttershy just stared at Twilight with concerned expressions on their faces.

“L-Look I'll be fine! I-” Twilight stopped as she heard a loud laugh across the room. This got the attention of the main six as they looked over at Prince Blueblood.

“That dragon got what he deserved! To be honest, I wish he was executed on the spot. He was such an eye sore to our nation. My aunt, thinking he would be 'something great', is rubbish.”

“I must say ole chap, I would have never expected Spike to murder, even in cold blood. And that's saying something, considering he is a dragon after all.” Said Fancy Pants.

“I knew it would have happened eventually, it was only a matter of time until he fell back to his beastly nature.” Blueblood took a glass of red whine off a tray off a passing waiter and sipped it. He then looked into the remaining liquid in the glass and thought. "And with that dragon gone, the families bloodline is pure again. Hmph, a dragon mingling with high societies and princesses is just preposterous,  and even more, sitting on the throne is what should always be mine... Spike, you're lucky I wasn't the one who decided your fate..."

As Prince Blueblood and Fancy Pants continued to talk, an air of depression washed over the Main Six as they were reminded of the judgment they had to call.

“I-I'll be right back. I need some fresh air.” Rarity told her friends as she walked towards the balcony that led outside, she soon felt the feeling that she had when she was at the alter again, the feeling of someone watching her intensely. She stopped and looked around to find no one. She shook it off the feeling and kept walking until she reached the balcony railing. Gazing upon Luna's starlit sky, she thought back to a time when things were so simple between those she cared about. Any form of conflict that rose would be delt with and their friendship would become stronger, but for one that wasn't possible, her Spikey Wikey.

"Spike was a true friend to me. He took his precious time out of any free time he had after working with Twilight to help me work on my dresses. My business skyrocketed when Spike used his title as being Princess Celestia's son and go to and get world renown ponies to come to Carousel Boutique, such as Photo Finish and Sapphire Shores. When ponies like that showed up, everyone wanted to come to my shop. Spike was truly something special to have around."

After taking a deep breath, Rarity turned back and walked inside. As she walked in she stopped as someone caught her eye. At the table was a strange figure, covered in a black robe with a hood. The robe had a unique design on it, definitely tailored. Her curiosity got the better of her as she approached the stranger.

Just as Rarity was about to talk to the cloaked stranger, she heard Princess Celestia speak through a microphone.

“Attention everyone! Thank you so much for attending this special day. I would love to congratulate another princess rising up in Equestria, and this princess is the very first Unicorn, Rarity, the Element of Generosity!” Celestia spoke as all of the ponies clapped their hands and cheered. "A princess who knows the meaning of generosity, a pony who is willing to go above and beyond for those who need help and a pony who will teach those to be generous and help strengthen the bonds of our strong nation. Just as Twilight spreads friendship across Equestria, so too Rarity with her generous spirit, because I believe in the words of my dear student and fellow princess, Friendship is Magic.” Celestia spoke in a assured tone causing everyone to clap and cheer harder.

Rarity stood there and smiled at Princess Celestia's words, completely touched by her speech. She knew she would become a princess by marrying Prince Blueblood, but the role she would play alluded her until now and she liked it! She could make a difference in the world just like Twilight and the other princesses. Rarity was brought out of her thoughts as she heard laughing behind her, causing her to turn around to face the source of the laughter.

It seemed she was the only one who heard the laughter.

“Pray tell, what are you laughing at?” Rarity asked the cloaked figure.

“I'm laughing because it's funny. Friendship is Magic... it's a joke.”

Rarity glared at the creature and spoke. “Friendship is a magical thing to have.”

“Really? I find it disgusting... Friendship only causes pain... The greater the bond, the more one will suffer...” The cloaked figure spoke in a tone that was filled with dread while looking down at the table.

At that moment, Rarity felt this unknown being's pain. Every word he spoke, she felt it. This male has been through a lot. This pushed her to speak.

“I'm not sure who you encountered to make you feel such a way, but those people who made you think this way are certainly no friends to be had. They don't deserve to have such a title.” Rarity thought back to a time, Rainbow Dash's friend Gilda first came to Ponyville she was so rude. "To have someone like that be called a friend, I was glad Rainbow Dash broke off from her. She didn't deserve to have such a loyal pony to be her friend."

“Is that so?” The cloaked figure spoke.

Rarity nodded her head. “Yes, such friends should not exist. There are always better friends out there in the world.” Rarity  suddenly turned from the cloaked figure as she heard a loud scream, coming from Pinkie Pie who was dancing wildly from her intense sugar rush.

“I agree,” the cloaked figure stood up suddenly. As his arms laid by his side, his right purple scaled claw started to gain green flames on each one. The very air around him became filled with malice and hate. Something that didn't go unnoticed by Rarity as she turned around to face him. "This friend of mine is very close to you, Rarity."

"T-They are? Tell me, is it Blue Bloo-" She was stopped by another voice.

“Miss Rarity, you are needed to stand by your friends for a picture." Silver Guard spoke as he approached quickly, this caused the cloaked figure to retreat his claw back into his robe and looked down as he noticed the one who called her, the very pony who arrested him.

“Oh okay, thank you!” Rarity turned to face the cloaked figure and nodded. “Nice talking to you.” She then walked away.

Silver Guard watched her leave then turned to the cloaked figure, only to find that he was gone. He then smirked at this then looked out at the moon and starlit sky from the window before walking back to stand with the other royal guards.





After the wedding reception, everypony went home to prepare themselves for the next day. In Ponyville, the Elements of Harmony went their separate ways. 

Fluttershy trotted down the dirt road that led to her cottage, lost in thought of tonight's event.

"I hope Angel has everything prepared for tonight's sleepover. Oh! I can't wait to read them the latest manga I ordered, Ryuasha. A romantic tale of a dragon who was pinned to a tree by his pony love for 50 years!" Fluttershy exhaled in excitement as she slowly approached her cottage.

As Fluttershy gazed upon her home she realized... something was off. It was completely silent inside. This silence was unnatural for a home filled with animals, and even if they were sleep, the sound of snoring would be heard coming from the inside, especially from Mr. Bear. Fluttershy took a deep breath before slowly approaching the door, turning the door nob slowly, peering inside.

What she saw made her scream. “AHHH!” Fluttershy screamed in absolute terror from what was before her. On the floor laid the corpses of her animal friends. Their blood soaked her wooden floor.

Tears quickly streamed down her cheeks like a waterfall as she looked at the horror in front of her. She wanted to run, but one thing was holding her back.

The only animal she noticed not being there was her favorite.

“A-Angel! P-Please, let this be one of your pranks!” But it was all in vain, the silence was the only thing that returned her call. Fluttershy wanted to run away, but she couldn't, she needed to find Angel, her most beloved pet.

With all of Fluttershy's strength, she gathered enough courage to walk into the cottage. As she walked passed the bodies, she noticed the bodies were ripped apart. It appeared to be the work of claws or a blade. Fluttershy was about to run, but realized that she needed to find her bunny. “Angel, a-a-are you in here?" Fluttershy shuddered as her feet shook with fear as she walked down the hall, checking room per room for her pet, to no avail. All she found was more of her animal friends ripped apart in the rooms.

“W-Who could do such a t-thing,” Fluttershy spoke as she slowly became dizzy from the scent of blood and dead bodies then fell to the floor and threw up.

As tears continued to pour from her eyes, she tried breathing slowly to calm her pounding heart. There was one area left that needed to be checked and she couldn't leave without searching that area.

"C-Come on Fluttershy, y-you got to get it together. A-Angel needs you!" Fluttershy thought as she forced herself to her feet then proceeded to walk towards the stairs, only to stop at the first step. As Fluttershy looked up the stairs, all she saw was darkness. The lights above were cracked and wouldn't turn on. This only terrified her more. She knew this wasn't a good idea, but she had to go, she had to know if her friend was alright.

Fluttershy gulped, swallowing whatever fears that held her back and proceeded to walk up the stairs. When she finally made it to the top floor, she went over to her hall table and grabbed the candle and match that sat on it then lit the candle stem, creating light.

"Okay Fluttershy... you must be brave, you must!" Fluttershy thought as she walked down the hall. "Angel must be in one of these rooms." Fluttershy thought as she stopped at the first door, the bathroom. Slowly she grabbed the door handle and turned it, opening the door slightly, causing the door to make a loud creaking sound that only caused her to wince from the noise. “A-Angel if you're in here p-please come out.” But no reply. Fluttershy felt her fears coming back, brining up the worst of the worst case scenarios in her head, but quickly steeled herself from this fear and entered the bathroom. She searched under the sink and then went to the bathtub, she saw it. Mr. Bear, her dearest animal friend, second only to Angel was beheaded. His blood almost filled the bathtub, with some starting to drip out of it and on to the tile floor.

At this point, Fluttershy was losing it, she was soon losing the will to keep going, but she knew she had to finish. There was one room left. Her room.

“O-One more room to go.” Fluttershy walked to her bedroom and stood in front of the door, contemplating her next action. She knew she had to go in, but what would be inside? What demon could have caused the deaths of everyone precious to her, besides her friends? Whatever this thing is, is a monster to its very core. Deep down she wanted this to be a nightmare. Waiting for Princess Luna to make her appearance and free her from this hell.

Fluttershy reached for the door and pushed it open since the door was cracked open some. Once the door was open all the way, she saw what looked like an odd shaped figure on her dresser.

"..."

Fluttershy's feet started to shake. She slowly approached her dresser and then shined her candle light upon it to find Mr. Bear's head laying there. His eyes were gorged out and his jaw line was ripped open. Her body shuttered in terror as she took one step back, but then froze as she gazed into the mirror. Within the mirror, showed two emerald green eyes filled with malice and hate looking back at her. She could feel the thirst for blood coming from this being and this stopped every movement in her body, but she was able to force out one word in a low whisper.

“S-Spike...”
> Chapter 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Fluttershy  stood there trembling, as if she was standing out in the dead of winter with nothing to cover her body to give her warmth, in the poorly lit room as she stared into the mirror before her and saw two glowing green emerald eyes. Eyes that she's known for years, once kind and beautiful now filled with malice. Eyes that she dreaded to see again after she heard of his escape from Tartarus. Those eyes, eyes that belonged to only one being...

“S-Spike...” Fluttershy stuttered out as she gazed into the mirror. Too frightened to turn around.

“So… you remember my name after all these years.... and here I thought I was so easily forgotten, just as I was so easily thrown into hell for life!” Spike roared as he spoke to the pegasi, shaking the room slightly.

Fluttershy whimpered in fear as fresh tears started to form in her eyes. She refused her body’s natural instinct to turn around and face him, subconsciously believing that if she couldn't see the danger, then it wouldn't be able to harm her.

“Turn around Fluttershy,” Spike ordered.

Fluttershy ignored him, shutting her eyes tightly to try to calm herself down. This only infuriated Spike as he clenched his fist as steam poured from it.

“I SAID TURN AROUND!” Spike roared again as he threw green fire from his right claw at the dresser beside Fluttershy, incinerating it on contact.

Fluttershy jumped as she quickly turned around to face her old friend to see that he had changed from the last time they met. He had become taller and his tail had become longer on the floor some, his purple scales had become darker, the spines on his head and tail have grown a bit longer and sharper with a darker shade of green. His body was no longer scrawny, he had built up a lot of muscle and his eyes which use to carry so much love and joy was replaced with hatred, loneliness and… sadness...

As Fluttershy gazed upon his figure, her heart started to stop and her body became pale as his eyes peered into her own, as if he was gazing at her very soul.

“Fluttershy… do you know how it feels to live in despair? Forever powerless to fix what is wrong. Losing what meant everything to you and to be left with nothing?” Spike spoke in a sulky tone. “I'm sure you can relate now.”

Fluttershy clenched her fist as her body allowed her some strength to move against her stiff joints. “Y-You....How could you do this!? All of my friends...They’re...they’re gone!” Fluttershy screamed as she dropped to her knees, tears pouring down her cheeks as Spike looked down at her unmoved by this action.

“Just like you did to me when you abandoned me for life. I was basically dead to you and the others, so to me, this is no different.”

Fluttershy then looked up at Spike and spoke as she wept. “T-They didn't have to suffer. Why couldn't you have just come for me?”

“Because,” Spike paused before continuing. “They are precious to you. They mean something to your life, your very existence.” He then knelt down to Fluttershy, so that he was at eye level, and whispered as he placed a claw on the side of her face, which she flinched at, but was frozen in place by her fears. “And like I said earlier. You can now relate to my pain. I want you to understand how it felt to lose what was so dear to you, just as you and the girls were to me. Only through this pain will you understand how I feel. Y-You all meant so much to me. I-I... loved all of you, I...” Spike's voice lowered to the point Fluttershy couldn't hear him as his eyes lowered some as his inner turmoil got the better of him, causing his mind to drift to the past he treasured so much, a time he wished would always stay the same.





As I watched, Twilight talked to the butter-coated mare with extremely long light pink hair. I concealed my presence behind a bush. As Twilight introduced herself, the butter coated mare mumbled one thing or another. I couldn't exactly hear her from my position. Twilight kept talking to her and all she did was whimper and as Twilight continued to converse with her, I zoned out for a bit to be left alone with my thoughts.

“She's cute. Not Rarity cute, but still.” I looked over at Twilight as she turned around walked back over in my direction.

“Well, that was easy,” Twilight said as I walked around the bushes to meet her.

As I was about to respond to her the butter-coated mare squealed about me being a dragon or something as I watched her take flight, zooming over to us at such a speed that I wouldn't say was like that pony Rainbow Dash, but still, that speed was very surprising. She crashed into Twilight sending her over my head and stopped in front of me, unfazed by her action she then started rambling on about one thing or another.

'Wow, never expected that. She was so quiet talking to Twilight and now she's...Wait, Spike! You need to pay attention. She's talking to you.'

“Wow your so cute,” Fluttershy exclaims in her excitement, not really thinking too much about what she just said, causing blood to rush to her cheeks, slightly painting them pink.

I smirked at her compliment and looked over at a dazed Twilight who was still on the ground. “Well, well, well,” I grinned as leaned back in her direction with my arms folded and my eyes closed as she continued to praise my very being. 'I'm really going to like this mare. Too bad I didn't meet her before I met Rarity.'

As I was standing there, enjoying the worshiping of my new friend, Twilight's anti-social ways got the better of her… again as I felt my body getting grabbed in a telekinetic grip and dragged across the ground, my feet kicking up some dirt while making a trail until I stop by her side.

“Well, we have to get going. We have a lot of work to do later on.” Twilight said in a slightly irritated tone before she looked at me with a glare. “Come on.” She started walking off and on instinct I followed, not before waving goodbye to her, leaving our new friend standing there… well for a moment.

“ Wait, wait!” The butter mare rushed up to my side and started walking with me. “What's your name?”

I smiled as I looked at her. “My name is Spike.”

“Hi Spike, I'm Fluttershy. Oh wow, a talking dragon. I didn't know dragons could talk. What do dragons talk about?”

“Well, what do you want to know?”

“Absolutely everything!”

“Ugh!” Twilight rolled her eyes in annoyance and continued to walk as they talked beside her.

“Well okay. From what my mother, Celestia, told me. I started out as a small purple and green egg.”

“Celestia? P-Princess Celestia is your mother?” Fluttershy said in surprise.

“Yep, she hatched my egg about 15 years ago,”

“Wow, this is so unexpected....Um....W-What happened to your dragon parents? I-If you don't mind me asking.”

Spike sighed softly as the grin he wore upon his face when talking to Fluttershy twisted into a frown. “That is something I just don't know. When Celestia found my egg, she told me that she found me in a grove with no dragons to be found, so she took me in and raised me… Well after she hatched me that is. Teaching me everything I know now. It is thanks to her that I'm even here now.”

“Oh Wow. Oh, my. That is so amazing! A dragon raised by not only a pony but Princess Celestia herself!” Fluttershy was so thrilled to hear this. So many things ran through her mind at once. 'I always believed all dragons were dangerous creatures, but this dragon is different. He was brought up differently. How did his life go while being around ponies? Oh, I must know!' “Spike, how was your life adapting to a ponies? You must tell me everything.”

Spike smiled 'Wow she really wants to know everything about me.' “Well…”

As Spike told Fluttershy everything about his life, Twilight looked at them out of the corner of her eye as she walked beside them in annoyance. 'Great! Another mare catches Spike's interest. What is with these ponies? Sheesh Spike. You're already crushing on Rarity. Now you’re interested in another mare who barely spoke a few words with me?' Twilight folded her arms as she looked forward. 'Can't wait to get this over with, so we can get back to stopping Nightmare Moon. And I also need to get back to my studies.' As they continued to walk down the dirt road they soon approached a huge tree that appeared to look like a house. 'Finally!' Twilight glanced at Fluttershy as they got closer to the tree.

“And that is my entire life, well except for today. Do you want to hear about today too?” Spike said in a jokingly.

“Oh yes please!” Fluttershy said excitedly as she got closer to Spike, causing his face to heat up some as she entered his personal space. Spike's body was soon covered in a purple energy before being yanked away quickly.

“I am so sorry. How did we get here so fast?” Twilight said in a sarcastic tone. “This is where we're staying while we're in Ponyville and me and Spike have a lot of planning and organizing to do for tomorrow.” Twilight gave Fluttershy a fake smile as she used her magic to open the door.

“But I thought we did all the planning at Canterlot? You even had me write a list so all the planning we would need would be don- Oof!” Spike grunted a bit in pain after Twilight jabbed him in the stomach with her elbow.

“Well, anyways it's getting late. Maybe we can talk more next time. Bye!” Twilight forced Spike inside and slammed the door behind her, leaving Fluttershy standing there in confusion at the behavior.



Fluttershy was too terrified to move. Her arms felt as if stone covered them, so she couldn't push Spike away. All she could do was listen to him, staring into his eyes. Eyes that showed that his mind was elsewhere for a moment before blinking back into reality.

“I really wish this was a dream Fluttershy, I really do,  but… I realized that this is the reality.” Spike stood up as he looked down on her. “Through your death, everyone will have an understanding of how I feel now, especially Twilight. The one mare that hurt me the most… I was always by her side. I would have done anything to help her in her studies and even in life...”

Fluttershy's gaze followed him as he stood up. “Spike....please… don't do this.” Fluttershy pleaded with him.

Spike showed no remorse as he gazed into her tearful eyes. “You were right Fluttershy...”

“R-Right? About what?”

“I am a savage beast!” Spike clenched his teeth as his eyes started to fill with malice.

Fluttershy's pupils shrunk at his words, remembering those were the same words she told him.

Thunderlane glided down to the ground outside the cottage after finishing his night flight training. “Phew, all that flying is exhausting. After a hot bath, I'm going to- AHHH!!!” Thunderlane jumped back in fear as the roof of Fluttershy's home exploded with a loud roar. Green flames consumed the entire top cottage and soon consumed the rest of it. ”Whoa! FLUTTERSHY!!!” Thunderlane yelled as he watched her cottage go in a blaze. The explosion quickly altered everyone in Ponyville, quickly stirring them from their sleep, causing them to all go outside to see what had happened.

Twilight awoke and ran to her balcony to see the destruction in the distance. “What is going on!? Those green flames… That is where Fluttershy lives!” Twilight's horn glowed brightly before being teleported to her friend's home, appearing right beside a group of ponies who gathered to see the blaze themselves.

“What in tarnation happened?” Applejack said as she made her way beside Twilight with the rest of her friends standing beside her.

Rarity covered her mouth as tears built up in them. “Oh no, Fluttershy!”

“H-hey we don't even know if she was caught in the blast!” Rainbow Dash yelled.

'I hope you’re right Rainbow Dash... but even I know that she...” Tears welded up in Twilight and her friend's eyes as they cried silently at a fate they wish was false. “I-I have to tell the princesses. They need to know about… this-” Twilight's voice slowly came to a halt as something caught her attention as she gazed at Fluttershy's burning home.

Illuminating in the firelight, Twilight and some other ponies around her could see a figure.

The figure stood still in the middle of the flames and did not move.

Twilight gasped. "Someone's in there! Alive!"

The figure turned its head slowly towards the rest of Ponyville, and that was when Twilight saw something that made her jump.

Spike's glowing emerald eyes.

Twilight was too shocked to say anything as the figure slowly faded away into the flames, as if it was an illusion caused by the light, leaving everyone silent.




Mareyscira, an ancient site, only known to those who existed during its time. It was home to the Mareazons: A group of fierce warriors who train in magic and combat since birth. Through mythology, only mares are known to exist here and no male has ever stepped foot on their lands… until now.

A large explosion was heard from the right side of the ancient home as a few Mareazons were thrown to the ground, stripped of their strength. From the explosion, there was Tirek who stood in the center as several Mazeazon warriors had fallen to his might. Only standing against him was the last warrior that remained.

“You fought well, but it is over.” Tirek stood tall with scratches and bruises all over his body, black blood dripped from his many wounds, but nothing fatal or what would hinder him. He then walked towards the last Marezon who was badly injured from the assault, unable to move as he reached down and grabbed the warrior by the throat, lifting her up to meet his gaze.

“Ugh!” The Mareazon struggled to get free, but it was pointless. “ Y-You... won't get away with this!” Said the female unicorn who was clad in golden armor.

Tirek laughed as he held her by the throat with one hand. “Just like this forgotten kingdom, the world shall fall before my might.” Tirek suspended the unicorn above the ground in his strong grip as her fallen kin laid on the ground below her, either unconscious or dead, blood leaking from most of their skulls with the absence of their Cutie Marks. From all the magic he absorbed, Tirek's size had grown far beyond his last time around Spike. His appearance was closer to the time before he absorbed the Element Bearer’s magic the last time.

“You… killed my people and tainted our sacred land! You demon, you won't get away with this you-” That was all the Mareizon could say before she screamed in agony as red-orange energy streamed from her horn and into Tirek's mouth, feeling the pain of her very essence in the form of her Cutie Mark being ripped from her very being.

“Silence.” Tirek said once he was finished. “You should be honored about this development. Your people are going to help me reclaim what should have been mine all along.” Tirek's wounds he received from battle had healed completely as his height grew another inch as the drained mare look up into his eyes. Seeing the pure malice intent lurking in the eerie yellow glow from his pupils.

Crack*. Tirek squeezed the mare by the throat with one hand until the bones in her throat shattered.

“AHHHH!!!” The mare screamed in agony before struggling for air as blood filled her mouth and she began to choke.

Tirek smirked as her flailing body soon became limp in his grip. “Worthless equine.” Tirek slung her body to the side, slamming her body through a fallen statue of their Mareizon queen, killing the mare on impact. Dust and debris from the statue scattered as the limp body hit the ground and came to a stop.

As Tirek took in the sight of this fallen society, he came to realize that he was that much closer to his goal. The many statues of their finest warriors now scatter the land, shattered and destroyed just like the very equine that these statues symbolize, who faced him in fierce combat to defend their land from an inevitable outcome. Soon, very soon he shall finish what he start years ago.

As Tirek marveled at his achievement, unbeknownst to him, a figure slowly approached from behind, only stopping a few feet behind him. “I see you've gotten stronger, Tirek.”

In a relaxed manner, Tirek looked back over his shoulder at the recognizable voice. “Yes, this place had more than what I believed offered for me.” Tirek spoke as his gaze went up to the sky, watching the full moon that was slowly setting over the ocean, shining like a beacon to those who traveled at night.

“I told you that Mareyscira would be worth the trip. Canterlot's Archives holds boundless information that is hidden to all, but those who are allowed inside. Getting the information was easy.” The figure moved beside Tirek before speaking again.

“ I recently got intel on Spike... He almost attacked the Element of Generosity Rarity, but that was soon put to a halt by my guard. Good thing too, because if he was to have attacked, then there would be no helping him. Celestia and Luna would have seized him and then our motives would be revealed. We would be forced to act on our own... but I must say, I am very impressed with what you have done. His hatred towards them is more than I would have expected.”

Tirek folded his arms and frowned as he watched the ocean current splash against the side of island rocks. “It's to be expected. His friends, his very family betrayed him, just like my brother Scorpan betrayed me. I have completely painted him in my colors...” Tirek then turned to the figure beside him.

“But enough of Spike. I have the desired location for my next meal before I confront the princesses.”

“And what location is that?”

Tirek only grinned as a twinkle is seen in his eyes. Prepared to take the world, he knows what he needs and he will soon claim it.
> Chapter 5: Butterflies
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Silence... 

Silence was the only thing that currently resided within Ponyville. This silence was brought on by the aftermath of an explosion at the Element of Kindness’s home, and within the flames of the said explosion stood the creature that stood out above all others within a pony filled town and then everyone watched in silence as that figure faded away without a word, leaving all spectators silent.

Well almost everyone.

“Spike...” Twilight mumbled to herself as she watched the rest of Fluttershy's home get consumed by the green flames.

“D-Did you see...that?” Rarity whispered to Applejack, who only stood in shock.

“Fluttershy...” Rainbow Dash whispered to herself before flying straight up into the sky to grab and bring down a big gray cloud. She gave it one strong punch, causing the moisture sealed within to be deposited over the burning cottage.

Once the flames were extinguished, Twilight dashed through the massive hole in the roof and landed inside, ending up in Fluttershy's room. Because of the explosion, the entire second floor was leveled so everything underneath was crushed. 

Once standing and thinking straight, Twilight dropped to one knee as her senses were overwhelmed with the foul stench of Fluttershy's dead animals, bringing the taste of vomit to her mouth. “Be strong Twilight.” Twilight whispered to herself before leaning up to inspect the room.

“So much damage! Spike....how could you…?” Twilight looked around at the devastation in shock until her eyes landed on the center of the room and there she saw Rainbow Dash, on her knees. “Rainbow Dash!” Twilight called out to her as she slowly made her way past the burned down doorway leading into Fluttershy's room. “What are you-” Twilight's sentence soon came to a halt as she saw what gained her friend's attention.

Before Rainbow Dash's knees was black scorch markings of their friend that was seared into the wooden floor with the remains of a few burnt feathers that have now been turned to ash. 

“No, F-Fluttershy....” Twilight thought as she raised a hand over her mouth. "To use flames of such intensity and power that would only leave an outline of her body…" Tears trailed down Twilight's eyes as she looked at the horror before her. The pain that their dear friend must have endured before her demise, must have been excruciating.

Rainbow Dash was no better, in fact she was worse off. Yes, everypony loved Fluttershy, but she held a special place in Rainbow Dash's heart. She was her first true friend next to Gilda. She always stood up for Fluttershy when she was being picked on by bullies. She was also the one that Rainbow would confide in when she was at her lowest, something she would never tell to anypony, regardless of how close they were. Heck even her parents are unaware of their daughter's struggles in life. They had bond so strong, so close that Fluttershy was like a sister to her.

 “I-I should have been here... I could have saved her.” Rainbow Dash clenched her eyes tightly as tears streamed out. “Anything! W-We should have prepared for something like this. We should have- I should have done something... Fluttershy... I'm so sorry. Damn it! Why?!”

As Rainbow Dash grieved over her friend, Twilight realized that they couldn't stay there forever. The citizens of Ponyville, the ones that now stand in front of Fluttershy's burnt down cottage, waited outside to hear the sensitive news of the local animal caretaker, especially their friends, who were waiting anxiously for them to return and deliver, hopefully some good news of their friend.

“Rainbow Dash” Twilight spoke in a low whisper that rivaled their now deceased friend. “We need to go...” Rainbow didn't respond. Her head hang low as her tears dripped onto the blackened surface of Fluttershy's silhouette. “Rainbow...” Twilight took a few steps towards Rainbow Dash before placing a hand on her shoulder. “Come on.” Twilight took a deep breathe to add some strength in her next coming words. “I need for you to gather our friends and tell them to meet me at the castle. I'll make sure to clear everypony outside. Please Rainbow.” 

Rainbow Dash slowly stood up and nodded her head. “Alright Twilight, I'll let them know.”

“Thanks Rainbow.” Twilight glanced back at Fluttershy's scorch mark. “P-Princess Celestia needs to be informed of what happened.” With that Rainbow Dash flapped her wings upwards as she made her way through the huge hole in the roof with Twilight close behind, gaining the attention of the waiting citizens. As they made their way to the ground, Twilight spoke to the crowd of ponies as Rainbow Dash made her way over to her friends.

“I know you all have many questions that you want answered, but I'm afraid I won't be able to answer them at this time. I will give you all an update at a future time.” Twilight began to make her way to her friends, who were preparing to make their way to the castle, until a voice stopped her.”

“Princess Twilight, please wait!” A female horse with a light pink rose mane with a wine colored coat shouted to the Alicorn.

“Yes, Miss. Cheerilee?” Twilight addressed the school teacher of the Ponyville School.

“Was that… That was Spike, wasn't it?”

Twilight looked into her eyes and nodded her head slowly. “Yes... that was him.” At that moment another pony was about to ask a question, only to be put to a stop by Twilight's next words. “I'll let you all know of any future information that I'll come across. Please go home and lock your doors until tomorrow morning. I'll check in on everyone tomorrow.” And with that Twilight's horn lit up before she teleported in a flash of purple light to her castle, where she would wait for her friends who had already left to make their way to her castle.


Inside the burnt cottage, a single yellow feather floated down ever so slowly.




Twilight reappeared in a flash of light on the front step of the castle staircase. There she waited for her friends to show up quietly and soon enough they did. As they made their way up the steps, they only gave each other a slight glance before going inside to discuss the loss of their friend. 



  
“...and that's what we found inside of Fluttershy's home.” Twilight speaks to her friends, minus Rainbow Dash, giving them all of the details of their findings.

Twilight stood in the center of the room while her friends sat along the wide couch that was located in one of the lounges in the castle. While everyone was very attentive to what Twilight was saying. Rainbow Dash opted to close her eyes in a vain attempt to calm her storm of emotions. All she could think about was Fluttershy and the more she thought about her, the more pain she felt. It wasn't just anger she felt, it was also despair.

“S-So it's true. Fluttershy i-is really...” Rarity bit her lip, unable to finish the sentence, but even if she didn't, Twilight knew and so as a response, all she could do was nod her head. 

“Yes... afraid so.” Twilight looked towards her other friends, Applejack, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash in sadness. They were silent and Twilight understood why.  Applejack held her brown hat down over her eyes as her left hand squeezed her left leg, possibly to resist the urge to cry. Pinkie Pie just stared at the floor, her once bright pink mane was deflated and gloomy grey. Rainbow Dash… she had already experienced what had happened. Twilight could tell that she was suffering much more than the others and as much as she wanted to support her, she had a job to do and it was crucial that it was accomplished as soon as possible.

“Alright everypony, I'll be back in a bit. I really need to send a letter to the princess, so they can be aware of has happened.” Only Rarity looked towards and spoke. “Go ahead. We understand.” Twilight nodded and left the room towards a room that had a writing desk with parchment, ink and quills. Once she got settled at the desk she prepared the parchment by opening it out before writing to her mentor.




Dear Princess Celestia,


I apologize for the time of this letter's arrival, but this is of the utmost importance. My friend Fluttershy was murdered at 11:35 P.M. Or rather this is the presumed time of death. While I wasn't able to find a her body, I can only assume that her body was converted from a solid to a gas, by extraordinarily high heat temperatures. Her home was destroyed by green flames and within those flames I saw Spike. Before anypony could make a move towards him or even say a word, he vanished within the flames. A part of me wish it was all in my head, just a weird reflection of the light, but I know better than that. It was him. I await your desired action to take for this matter. Please respond back as soon as you can.

Princess Twilight Sparkle



Twilight rolled up the parchment before it poofed away in purple light. “I hope she responds soon...” As Twilight stood at her desk, she reminisced to her first time meeting Fluttershy with Spike. “Why her?” Twilight whispered to herself. Her eyes soon shifted to a picture that rested at the edge of her desk, a picture of her friends and from there all she could do was think of her dear friend, a friend who taught her kindness, a pony of five who taught her the meaning of friendship, who helped her to become the very princess of what she didn't care too much about at first.

Twilight winced as her heart ached from the bond she had with her dear friend just vanished before her. Her heart and mind finally accepting the reality of what had just happened, to fully comprehend what had just occurred. Their friend, the Element of Kindness, the one who taught her a valuable lesson in friendship, was gone from Equestria forever.


“Fluttershy...” Twilight finally broke down and rested her head on her desk as her sobs started to fill the room.




Canterlot Castle

“Get ready sister, he approaches.”

Both Princess Celestia and Luna sat upon their thrones as they witness a body of a royal guard crashing through one of mural windows before hitting and rolling across the ground.

“It's come to this.” Princess Celestia mumbled to herself as the huge double doors to the throne room were forced open.

“Well well, princesses of Equestria, it has been awhile since we last met face to face.”

Celestia glared at the figure that now entered the throne room, breaking the door frame as he forced his large frame through the small entrance. “Tirek....” With each step the behemoth took towards the throne the ground shook a little from his weight. 

“This time I shall take from you what should have been mine and nothing will stand in my way.”

Before Luna could make a retort that would cause the sudden atmosphere to explode in a fierce battle, Celestia spoke out first.

“Why Spike?”

Luna's eyes widened as she looked at her sister.

“Why Spike?” A wicked grin formed on Tirek's face as an eerie yellow glowed from his pupils. “Because he…”

Celestia woke up in her queen size bed of the finest silk and cotton as the sound of teleportation startled her from her dream. Before her was a floating rolled up parchment surrounded in a purple aura that had a royal stamp that is used by Twilight on it. Celestia took hold of the parchment in her magical aura, preparing to opening it before her bedroom doors burst open to her little sister who ran it.

“Sister are you okay?” Luna asked in an anxious tone as she made her way to her bedside.

“Yes sister, I am fine. I… I believe I had another vision like before.”

“Yes, I remember. It was when Tirek escaped from Tartarus for the first time.... I too had the same dream.” Luna's gaze traveled from her sister to the floating parchment that floated in front of her. “Another letter from your student? What does it say?”

“I'm about to find out.” Celestia's magic unrolled the paper and straightened it out in front of her so she could read its contents.

Once Celestia finished, the scroll dropped to the bed sheets as a she leaped out of bed, walking fast towards her walk in closet for proper wear.

“What's going on sister. Did something happen?”

“Yes! Spike was in Ponyville not to long ago! Call the guards!” She said in fear.

Luna's eyes widened as she took a step forward towards her sister's closet. “And what happened?”

Celestia didn't answer, she put on some footwear before making her way back to her sister.

“Tell me Tia, what happened?” Luna asked again, this time with sternness in her voice.

“The Element of Kindness, Fluttershy, she was murdered.” Celestia looked her sister in the eyes. “I'm heading to Ponyville immediately with a few guards.”

“Murdered!?” Luna asked in shock and anger. “W-what did he do!?” Asking that question only made Celestia grimace before passing by Luna to grab her crown. That reaction was all Luna needed to understand the situation of the pegasi. “Then I'm coming with you.”

“No, Luna!” Celestia turned towards Luna. “I need for you to stay here to protect Canterlot in case Tirek or Spike make any attempts at attacking the city.”

Luna nodded and Celestia made her way out of the room. “Just be careful sister.” She said.




As roughly as 30 minutes went by, Twilight and her friends remained in the lounge area within the castle. Sitting in complete silence, already expressing their pains, rage and sorrows with each other over their lost, including cursing Spike's name, on Rainbow Dash’s part, they awaited the princess of their land to arrive and just as if their singular desire became reality, a flash of golden light filled the room as Celestia stood there wearing a mesh of clothing and armor that had the outline of the sun on the center plate. In a square with the princess of the sun in the center, where four royal guards, each holding a spear in one hand while having a sword in its sheath strapped to their back.

Celestia held a serious expression on her face, before shifting to a look of concern. “I got the news Princess Twilight and my subjects. I am sorry to hear the painful news of our friend Fluttershy. I wish my timing to arrive here, wasn't for such dangers.”

All of Twilight’s friends slumped in sadness.

“Yes, I wish the circumstances were different too, but..” Twilight took a deep breathe before continuing, “i-it's true.”

“Twilight, I want you to take me over to Fluttershy's home, while you give the details of your findings.”

“Yes, your highness.” Twilight turned towards her friends who waited for the next action they should take. “ You should all go to bed and get some rest, we could all use some rest after what just happened. We may need to be fully rested for what's to come tomorrow.”

Her friends only nodded their heads before slowly getting up and making their way out, saying they goodbyes, all except Rainbow Dash, whose mind was elsewhere.





Celestia and Twilight flew from the ceiling hole in Fluttershy's cottage before landing outside on the grass as two more royal guards make their way inside to gather as much evidence as possible.


Celestia stood there in silence and it was understandable. Death consumed that home, with various dead and burned animals scattered about, leaving a sickening scent that made her want to gag.


“Princess,” Twilight started. “What should we do?”


Celestia took a deep breathe as her horn began to light. “I'll need time to go over the evidence. I need for you to keep the citizens of Ponyville secure. They need to believe that Ponyville is safe, so I need you to stay here. Do you understand?”


“Yes princess I understand.”


“I'm afraid I must go. I need to relay this information to Luna. She will want to know the full details of what has happened. We will need to prepare a funeral for her....” And with that Celestia's horn lit up in a golden light before vanishing away in a bright light, leaving Twilight alone in the dark, burnt home of a once happy and lively Fluttershy.