> Spike's Turnabout
>  by PonyJoel
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> A Regular Day No More
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A new day is rising as Princess Celestia raises the sun. Twilight comes in the bedroom with a long list of chores for Spike to do. Spike is in the process of waking up. 

"Oh good, Spike. You're awake."

"Huh...wha.."	

Twilight tosses Spike the long list of chores for him to do. 

"Reorganize the books, dust off the shelves, pick up; quills, papers, notebooks, index cards, a new chalkboard. Clean out the fridge, clean the kitchen, sweep the floors, the stairs, the rooms. Re-reorganize last week's notes on different charms and spells," Spike groans as the list goes on.

"I would help, Spike. However, my friends and I are going to Canterlot," Twilight said as she finishes packing her things and leaving the Golden Oak Library. 

Spike looks at the list and falls on his back. He groans loudly. After a little while, Spike gets up and starts sweeping the floors. An hour later, he reorganizes the books. There have been multiple times that Spike had fallen off the ladder from carrying too many books. By another hour, he cleans out the fridge, cleans the kitchen, re-reorganize last week's notes that Twilight wrote down for her studies.  After hours of cleaning, Spike finally leaves the library. He walks down to Sugarcube Corner to buy a milkshake. Then he walks over to the store to pick up Twilight's items for the next few days. By the time Spike gets back to the Library, it's already nighttime. Spike put the quills, papers, notebooks, index cards, and chalkboard away. He then yawns after another long day of chores.

"I need a day off. I'm too tired to keep this up."

Spike goes upstairs to the bedroom. Before he can fall asleep, he looks out the window to be sure that Twilight isn't near. He takes out a journal he's been keeping under lock and key and begins to write once more. 

"Dear Journal,"

Today has been another day of work. My friend Twilight and her friends get to go to Canterlot today. They were probably having a fun day together. Creating memories, laughter, and singing along. I am tired of this everyday routine. Wake up. Work. Clean. Sleep. Repeat. I hardly get to do what I want to. Just last week, I saw Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash at Sugarcube Corner having a little get together. Instead of me joining in with them, Twilight told me that I needed to run an errand for her. She gave me a list of items to get. Honestly, though, I believe she was trying to keep me away from our...no...her friends. No matter how much I try, I am unable to break my chains of loneliness.

I hate the fact that Twilight gets to live her life to the fullest while I'm left behind. I hate that I do all this work while she's having a fun time partying. I hate the fact that Pinkie doesn't invite me to any parties she's been throwing recently. I hate it when they laugh at my conditions for getting wet! I can die due to cold water! I'll never forget the time when I was drowning in the lake when that ice I slept on was melting. They were laughing when I was nearly drowning! I hate Rarity for always using me to lift her heavy bags for things she never really uses! Why bring everything when you don't use it! I hate being a laughing stock when Pinkie and Rainbow Dash prank me! I hate Twilight for using me to clean up for her messes! I don't see her cleaning up my messes in this library! I hate doing her chores cause she's lazy of doing it herself! I hate it when she keeps me up all night! I hate it when they brag about having fun and leaving me in the cold. I hate them all for leaving me behind when we were at the Grand Galloping Gala. I never felt so lonely in my life. I hate being a pin cushion for Rarity whenever she had an idea of her work! I do volunteer to help out but other times get suckered in with my good nature. I hate it when I get suckered. I hate missing out on all the fun they have together! I hate when I'm normally the one who gets physically abused in every way such as sports, magic, pranks, and tests! I hate being mocked by my so-called friends! I hate being a slave to these ponies!

All I ever want is to have a change in pace in my life. No more physical pains, no more emotional pains, no more loneliness. If things don't change, I will be leaving. Let's see if Twilight will allow me to hang with her and her friends. Hopefully, I can find solace with the ponies I'm "friends with".

Spike sighs heavily after writing his thoughts and feelings in the journal. He looks out the window and sees Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy hugging each other and waving goodbye. Spike put his journal away and gets back in bed. He shuts his eyes and drifts to sleep. 

Twilight walks in the library and sees the handiwork of Spike. The library is nice and clean, everything she asks him to get is nicely set up. Twilight uses her magic to levitate a book of advanced Alicorn magic and proceed with her studies for the night. As the morning comes, Spike wakes up and notices that Twilight isn't sleeping on her bed. Spike groans and hopes that the Library downstairs isn't a mess. When he walks down the stairs, the library indeed is a mess. Books scattered everywhere, notes hanging on the walls, a diagram drawn on the new chalkboard, and there is Twilight. Reading a book then turns to see Spike. 

"Spike! I hope you had a good night's rest. I am going to be needing your help today."

Spike stares at Twilight. Not making a sound. 

"I'm going to be late for breakfast with my friends. I will surely appreciate you cleaning up the mess here. When you are finished, I need you to head over to Canterlot. I left some books that Celestia gave me last night and I forgot to bring them with me."

Spike balls up his claws and in anger, he shouted; "NO!"

Twilight looks at Spike after he shouted at her. "Excuse me?"

"No! Excuse you! I am not going to clean up the mess you made!"

"Spike, you are my number one assistant. I need you to help me. I am unable to clean the mess due to my tiredness. You are wide awake and full of energy. I'll tell you what. You clean the mess and I'll bring you some gems. Sounds like a deal my number one assistant?" Twilight blinks and smiles widely. Looking down at her assistant.

"Sounds like a bribe to me."

Twilight eye pupils shrink down, her ears flickered, and she begins to twitch after hearing what Spike said.

"Oh, I see how it is. You don't want to help. Well, guess what Spike? I'm relinquishing your Power Ponies comics until further notice!"

"You can't do that!"

"Oh yes, I can! As long as you live here with me, you live under my rules! When I come back, this mess better be cleaned up!" Twilight said as she slams the door. She leaves the library and goes over to Sugarcube Corner. 

Spike is fed up with Twilight's ruling. Spike stomps his way upstairs and begins to pack the essentials only. He is tired of living with a tyrant. The last item he packs is his journal. So far, it's the closest thing to a friend he has. Spike looks around the library and mutters. 

"I wish you would be better Twilight instead of this stubborn pony brat your becoming. I wish you were a better...parent than you are right now...I wish you were a better friend...All you ever do is make me work, clean up and leave me behind. This time, I'm leaving you behind. Good luck in life cause...I don't need you any...more." 

Spike walks down the stairs with his belongings. As he walks towards the door, he slips on a book and falls on his back. In anger, he got up and kicks the book. Unknowingly to him, that book he kicked was his journal. He didn't close his bag which caused the journal to fall out. Spike leaves the library and starts walking towards the train station. On his way to the train station, Spike makes no eye contact with anypony walking. He is now sitting on a bench waiting for the next train to take him elsewhere. 

Around the same time, Twilight caught up with her friends at Sugarcube corner. They were inside having breakfast. Twilight sits down next to Applejack and Rarity. 

"Hey, Twilight. How are you doin?" Applejack asks. 

"I'm fine! Thanks for asking!" Twilight stated. Her body is still twitching from earlier. 

"Something is not right. Care to tell us Twi?" Rainbow asks. 

Twilight took a heavy breather to calm herself long enough to speak. "I had a little fight with Spike but it's nothing serious. Just a little parenting. Nothing more or less."

"You sure Twilight? What did you and Spike fight about?" Rarity asks. 

Twilight sighs then spoke, "I ask Spike to help clean up the mess in the library but he refused to help. He told me to clean up the mess instead. He said it in a disrespectful manner that I decided to take away his comics until further notice. Then I left to come here. I needed a little separation from Spike." 		

"Spikey-wikey refusing to help? That's unheard of Twilight. I'm glad you put your hoof down and let him know that it's not about him."

"Thanks, Rarity."

"Hmm, I think there is something else to the story Twilight. Something that you are not mentioning."

"What are you talking about Applejack?"

"What I'm saying is that there are always two sides to the story. You told us your side. What was Spike's side?"	

"Well...uh..." Twilight coughs a little to get some composure. "He refuses because I made the mess. He feels that I should clean up after the mess I made. During that time, I was a bit tired and couldn't use my magic to put things back in place. He, however, had a good night's sleep and therefore, he had more energy than I do. I told him that if he cleans up, I'll bring him some gems. Things took a turn and here I am now."

"What happened Twi. There is something else you are not mentioning. Don't ask me how I can tell. I know a lie when I see it. I know when something is out of place when the truth is revealed. Now quit stalling and spit it out."

Twilight sighs in defeat and admits that Spike's comment from her suggester sounds like bribery. Now looking back, Twilight can only feel shame and guilt by her selfish actions. 

"Wow, Twilight. That's low. Even for you," Rainbow stated.

"Yea but hey! I know what can cheer him up! A Surprise party!" Pinkie cheers as she jumps high in the air.

"Yea and I can fly to Cloudsdale to get a new	edition of the Power Ponies comic!"	Rainbow shouts with pride. 

"I can locate the best gems around the area and Pinkie here can bake the gems into a delicious cake for Spikey-wikey."

"I...can...brew some tea since he enjoys drinking it," Fluttershy said calmly and quietly. 

"I better start bringing some apples for games and desserts!"

"Alright everypony! We have a plan to cheer Spike up! Let's do this!"

Twilight and her friends split up and start setting up the party. Twilight decides to get a checklist to make sure that Spike's party is perfect. As she opens the library door, she stumbles in and lands on a pile of books. To her surprise, Spike didn't clean the mess but she didn't care for it right now. As she carefully walks over, she grabs her quill and paper then bolt out of the library. 

The train pulls in the station. Spike looks back and questions his doing. Ponyville is his home. Twilight has always been there for him. The smiles, the warmth of being surrounded by good friends. He questions if it's worth leaving them behind. Then he remembers all the times he felt heartache and loneliness. Being used and abused. It's not worth it to him anymore. Spike gets on board as the train leaves the station. Spike waves Ponyville goodbye as his new life is about to begin.
> A Dark Turn For New Beginnings
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's been an hour since Twilight and her friends decide to plan a surprise party. Rainbow Dash just returned from Cloudsdale with a new edition of the Power Ponies comic. Rarity gallops to Sugarcube Corner with a haul of rare gems. Pinkie Pie has already set up the party in her room. Fluttershy, Applejack, and Twilight come in at the same time. Twilight made sure everything is setup. She checks off the apples Aj brought, the new edition of the Power Ponies comic, the cakes, the gems for Pinkie Pie to bake into a cake, the tea and tea cakes, the decorations, and everything else needed to make Spike happy. All they need now is to bring Spike. Rainbow Dash volunteers to search and grab Spike. Rainbow dashes out of the house and begins her search for Spike. 

"Nice work, girls. Everything is coming along perfectly."

"Thanks, Twilight. Spike is going to love love looove this amazing party! Wooo!" Confetti explodes behind Pinkie as she jumps back. 

"I hope Spike is alright. The poor thing must be fuming with all that has happened today," Fluttershy sincerely states. 

"I'm pretty sure Spike just went out for a walk to cool himself down. I would do the same if I were mad," Applejack said.

"Oh," Twilight said anxiously. "I hope this party goes well for him. He must be so upset with the way I treated him earlier today," Twilight starts to twitch again and hold herself. "What if he doesn't accept my apology for how I tried to bribe him? What if he hates me? What if..."

"Twilight, darling. You are overdoing it. Stay calm. Spike will come around and accept your apology. He doesn't hate you. He loves you."

"You're right, Rarity. Thank you. I don't know what I was thinking."	

Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie all hug Twilight Sparkle. Their comfort sooth Twilight's panicked state and ease her mind. Rainbow Dash comes crashing in with a worried expression on her face.  

"Uh, girls. We have a situation. I am unable to find Spike."

"What?!" Twilight shouts so loud that the birds around Ponyville fly away. "What do you mean you are unable to find Spike?!" Twilight said frantically. 

"I checked around Ponyville. I even flew into the Everfree Forest. Zecora hasn't seen Spike. He's not at the Castle of the Two Sisters. I have no idea where he is Twilight. I'm sorry,"

"This is an OUTRAGE!" Twilight shouts in anger. 

"Twilight, calm yourself. Let's not do anything hasty now."

Twilight shuts out Applejack and leaves the room. She is now on the search for Spike. Rainbow and her friends decide to go on a search party. Spike's disappearance is now putting Twilight at disarray. Everypony searched all of Ponyville and found no traces of Spike. Twilight is now at the Castle of the Two Sisters. Searching every room but there are no signs of Spike presence anywhere. 

Spike! Where are yoooooooooooooooooou?! Twilight starts crying.

It's only been 2 hours since Spike left Ponyville. He doesn't care where the train will take him as long as it's far away from the ponies who abused him. Who used him. Who left him behind while they have all the fun. Several ponies were chatting with each other as Spike sits alone. He searches for his journal to write but couldn't find it. He groans in the realization of leaving the journal behind at the library. 

"Whatever, I'm alone anyway. Soon I'll be making new friends, find a new home, work for a living, and start a new chapter in life."

The train stops and pulls into a station. Spike grabs his belongings and gets out of the train. The train leaves. There is a trail in front of him. Spike takes a deep breath and walks down the path. Hoping it'll take him in the right direction. Spike gaze upon the trees and the wilderness. It's beautiful. As Spike sightsees the area, he found a town similar to Ponyville. He smiles and hopes that his decision is the right one. 

Spike walks down the path and sees a Lemon Tree Orchard. Spike couldn't help but stare at the lemon tree. It reminded of the apple tree he sees back in Ponyville. Spike notices that an earth pony is watching him. She waves at Spike. Then she walks up to him. Smiling and reaching her hoof out.

"You must be new here. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Lemon Zest. What is your name?"

"Oh..um...My name is Spike. It's a pleasure to meet you," Spike shakes Lemon's hoof.

"It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Spike."

"So, is this a lemon tree orchard?"

"You got it. Also, here in the Zesty Fields, it's where I host parties for the entire town of Pony Central."

"Pony Central?"

"Yes, Pony Central. Since you are new here, I can give you a tour of our town if you like?"

"That sounds wonderful."

"Splendid. On with the tour."	

Lemon Zest walks with Spike giving him the grand tour of Pony Central. As the two walk down the street, a fast-flying pegasus swoosh near them and lands in front of them. Spike mutters. "Rainbow Dash..?"

The Pegasus wasn't Rainbow Dash it was-

"Hey, Indigo Zap! What's up?" Lemon said. 

"Ah, nothing much. Just flying and training is all," Indigo sees the baby dragon. "So, who's the baby dragon?"	

"Oh, this is Spike. He's new around here. I'm giving him the grand tour of Pony Central."				

"How nice of you, Lemon. May I tag along with the two of you?"

"Sure," Lemon said with a smile. 

"Yes, you can tag along. It'll give us the chance to get to know each other better."

"Awesome," Indigo said as she gives Spike a nuggie. 

Indigo and Lemon continue to give the grand tour to Spike. They show him several stores that he'll like, show him several food restaurants he'll enjoy. They stopped in front of a tall pine tree building. 

"This is the town's library, Spike. The library has every book you need in any situation," Lemon said. 

A light blueish gray unicorn with glasses walks out and greets. 

"Hi, Indigo. Hi, Lemon."

"Hi, Sugarcoat." Lemon and Indigo said in unison.

"Hmm, a baby dragon is with you two," Sugarcoat walks up to the baby dragon. "What is your name?"

"Spike. I'm Spike. Nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you, Spike. I reckon you are new here and looking for a new place to call home?"

"Yup," Spike said as he nods his head.

"Well, you've come to the right place. Here in Pony Central, all living creatures live together in peace and harmony."

Spike is enjoying his time in Pony Central already. He can't believe he's making all sorts of new friends. Then his stomach growls loudly.

"Spike, are you hungry?" Sugarcoat asks. 

"Yea, I am."

"We know the perfect location for you to grab a bite to eat. Follow us," Sugarcoat said. 

Sugarcoat, Indigo, and Lemon walk with Spike to the best bakery in all of Pony Central. It can be the best bakery in all of Equestria. As they enter the bakery, the aroma of freshly baked goods made Spike drool. Nothing this good can compare to the bakery back in Ponyville. The girls and Spike sat down at a table nearby. An earth pony came up to the table to take their orders. 

"Hi, Sour Sweet."

"Hi, Indigo, Sugarcoat, and Lemon. How are you doing today?"

"We're doing fine, thanks for asking," Lemon said. 

"So, what's your name, baby dragon?"		

"I'm Spike. Nice to meet you, Sour Sweet."

"Nice to meet you as well. So what will you all be having?"

"For Spike here, we'll be having the traditional ice cream pancakes." Sugarcoat said. 

"One order of ice cream pancakes coming up!" Sour Sweet whistles towards the kitchen. "Mr. Pudding! We have a newcomer! We are making ice cream pancakes!" 		

"Alright then, let's get baking!" Mr. Pudding shouted. 

Sour Sweet jumps over a table and enters the kitchen to help bake. 

"So, what's this bakery called?" Spike asks. 

"Sugary Skies Bakery. The Pudding family owns the bakery. They allow Sour Sweet to live with them since she is an orphan," Lemon said. 

"She is?"

"Yea, but that's a story to tell on a different day."

In ten minutes, Sour Sweet returns to the table with four plates of ice cream pancakes.

"Enjoy!" Sour Sweet said as she smiles. 

Sour Sweet, Indigo, Sugarcoat, and Lemon watch Spike take the first bite out of his ice cream pancake. His eyes widen as he chows down. The ice cream pancake is by far the best dessert he's ever eaten. 

"This is delicious, Sour Sweet!"

Sour Sweet chuckles. "Thank you, Spike."

"You're welcome," Sour smiles. "Anyway, my shift is over for today." 

"Hey, Sour. The tour I'm receiving isn't over. Want to tag along with us?"

"Sure. I can even show you my favorite locations in Pony Central."

"Sounds good to me."	

Lemon, Indigo, and Sugarcoat eat their pancakes. After a while, everyone left Sugary Skies Bakery and continues with the grand tour. They walk down a steep hill heading into the fields of Pony Central. A pegasus in the skies is managing the weather. Making sure there is nothing but clear skies for the rest of the day. She sees her friends and lands down. 

"Hey, Lemon. Hey, Indigo. Hey, Sugarcoat. Hey, Sour Sweet."

"Hi, Sunny Flare." They said. 

"Who's that baby dragon behind you all?"

Spike approaches Sunny Flare. As he looks up at the pegasus, he can't help but smile. "I'm Spike. Spike the Dragon."

"Nice to meet you, Spike. I'm guessing your new and want to live in Pony Central?"

Spike nods his head. He couldn't help but smile more. Being surrounded by new friends breaks the chains of his loneliness. Finally, he found a place to call home.

"Yes. I want to live here. Everypony so far has been kind to me. Treating me as I'm one of them and not dirt."

"Huh?" The girls said in confusion.

Spike sighs, then he spoke. "Yea, back home, all I did was work, clean, sleep, repeat. I used to live in the Golden Oak Library. I was living with Twilight Sparkle. She and I used to be friends. Every day she would learn the magic of friendship. She would go on epic adventures, go out and party, have fun, sing, laugh, and create memories. I was her number one assistant. I would clean up the messes she makes when she stays up all night studying. I would go on errands for her. I do a lot of work but no appreciation. Not even a thank you." Spike begins to tear up. "My so-called friends would leave me behind whenever they were having a party in town. I missed special events and birthday parties. I never get to hear the end of it whenever Twilight makes me write down letters to Princess Celestia. It makes me so mad! There was this one time on Winter Wrap Up Day that I was sleeping on a block of melting ice in the lake. Instead of my friends coming to help me, they laughed at my misery when the ice melted. Due to me being cold-blooded, I was nearly drowning in the freezing lake. They were laughing when I nearly died," More tears stream down on Spike's face. "I suffer from physical trauma. I'm tossed around, used as a pincushion, used as a test subject, used for sporting. I get hit with open doors, books falling on top of me, falling off a ladder, being drop by levitation. Then I get mocked for being who I am...I'm sick and tired of the same routine every day."

Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sour Sweet, Sugarcoat, and Sunny Flare could not believe what they are hearing. They are distraught, horrified, and disgusted. They can see the devastation on Spike's face. They all comfort him by giving him a group hug. Spike wails in sadness. After a long while of hugging, Spike finally calms down. The girls looked at each other, then at Spike. 

"Spike, mind waiting for a few moments. The girls and I need to have a quick meeting," Lemon said. 

"Sure, I can wait," Spike sniffs a little. 

Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sour Sweet, Sugarcoat, and Sunny Flare walked a few feet away from Spike to have a quick discussion. 

"That poor baby dragon has to be scarred for life. Being used and abused like that," Sour said.

"I know, Sour. No child should ever go through what he went," Sugarcoat stated. 

"I'm surprised that nopony called the CPS on Twilight Sparkle," Indigo said. 

"So, what shall we do?" Sunny said. 

They looked at Spike and back. 

"He has no other family now that he's left them," Lemon said. 

"No, he has a family. A new family," Sugarcoat said. "He now has us for a family. We'll take good care of him."

"Yea, we will!" Indigo shouts with pride.	

"So, where will he be sleeping at?" Sunny questions. 

"In our homes on a daily weekly basis. Every week, Spike will spend the week with one of us. He's been lonely for a long time. It's time to change that," Sugarcoat states. 

Everypony nodded in agreement. 

"So, who wants to take him in first?" Indigo asks. 

"Hmm, how about I take him in first," Lemon suggests. "Seems fitting since I was first to greet him."

"Makes sense. Then I'll be next in line," Indigo said. 

"I'll make the library feel more like home for Spike. Also, he'll be free of chores and work."

"I have a spare bed in my room. I'm pretty sure the Pudding family doesn't mind adding one more in their household for a week," Sour said. 

"Then I'll be last to take him in for the week. I'm pretty sure he'll love the open space and fresh air."

"Then it's settled."

The girls nodded in agreement. Then they walk back to Spike with important news. 

"Hey, Spike. We have news for you." Sunny said happily. 		

"What is it?" Spike asks. 

"First of all, where are you planning to sleep tonight?" Sugarcoat asks. 

"Oh...um...at a cave near Pony Central since I am a dragon after all."

"Oh no, you won't," Lemon said. 

"Oh, I guess you know a better place for me to sleep?"	

"Yes, we do," Lemon smiles at Spike. "You are going to live with me this week."

"I am!" Spike said excitedly and full of joy. 

"Next week, Spike. You'll be crashing by my place," Indigo states. 

"Following week, you'll be living with me at the Pine Tree Library. Also, you won't be doing any chores or work." 

"Then, the following week, you'll be in my room with the Pudding Family. They won't mind having you around for a week."

"Last but not least, you'll be living with me for a week. Then the rotation will restart. Starting with Lemon all over again."

Spike is overwhelmed with joy and happiness. He now knows that he'll never be alone ever again. He made the right decision. From Ponyville to Pony Central, from Tartarus to Haven, Spike is at ease. He yawns as he's getting sleepy. Lemon Zest smiles and picks up Spike. She places him on her back. 

"I'll bring Spike to my home at Zesty Fields so he can rest. I'll see you, girls, later tonight." Lemon said as she bites Spike's bag and trots off to Zesty Fields. 

"We'll see you tonight for sure!" Indigo shouts. Then she flies off to her home. 

"I'll see you two later. I have to report to my bosses about the weathering," Sunny Flare takes flight.  

"See you around Sugarcoat. I have to prepare the cake for tonight's party."	

"Will do Sour. I'll see you around."	

Sour Sweet and Sugarcoat trots in different directions. Lemon Zest carefully balances herself with a baby dragon on her back. Spike is gazing around Pony Central as Lemon trots. Spike couldn't believe that earlier today he was in Ponyville, now he resides in Pony Central. Yet, he wonders how Twilight and her friends feel about his disappearance act. Spike shrugs it off his mind. Not looking back but looking forward. Besides, they go on epic adventures saving Equestria. They don't need him. 

It's been three hours that Spike been missing in Ponyville. The search has gone critical. Everypony in Ponyville is helping Twilight locate Spike. In their best efforts, nothing has been working. Twilight is at the library searching for any notes that Spike may have been writing. Key locations of where he might have run off too. The Golden Oak Library looks like Discord's doing when it comes to chaos. Books scattered everywhere, papers flying around, personal items tossed around in search of any hidden clues. All is lost until Twilight stumbles on a book. She uses her magic to lift the book. Her eyes beam wide open when she read the title of the book.

"Spike's Friend?" 

Twilight opens the book and reads the first page. Her heart sank as her eyes start to water. 

"Dear Journal,

Today has been awful. I'm home while Twight and our friends are having a fun time partying. Yesterday was Gummy's birthday party. Pinkie Pie invited Twilight but not me. I was left behind to clean up a mess Twilight made when she was studying downstairs. Twilight didn't even suggest that I come with her. Today, Twilight didn't even bother to invite me to help set up for Pinkie's Surprise Party at the Apple Barn. She gave me a list of chores. A long list of chores. I never heard the end of Twilight saying how much fun she had at Gummy's Birthday Party. I never heard the end of Pinkie's Birthday Party. She made me write a letter to Celestia explaining what she learned and how much fun she had. What Twilight doesn't know is how lonely I have been feeling. She doesn't even care to ask how I'm doing. How I am feeling. All she has to say is that I need your assistance, Spike."

"Sp-Spike never told me about how he felt..." Twilight reads the next page. 

"Dear Journal,

I am lonely once more. Earlier today, Rainbow Dash was in dire need of support. Fluttershy hasn't shown off her loud cheering spirit for Rainbow Dash. The Best Young Fliers Competition took a toll on Rainbow Dash. Twilight and our friends decided to go to Cloudsdale to cheer on Rainbow Dash. Twilight used a spell so we all can walk on clouds. Twilight specifically tells me to stay home and clean up the library. Books were scattered everywhere. Hundreds of them. I would end up missing the Sonic Rainboom Rainbow Dash performed. Once again, I am lonely and missing out on all the fun that Twilight and our friends are enjoying. I missed a trip going to Cloudsdale to clean up a mess I didn't make! "

"Spike...I'm sorry..." Twilight continues to read as more tears stream down her face.

"Dear Journal,

It's getting worse. Earlier today, before writing and sending a letter to Princess Celestia, my friends were laughing at me when I was sleeping on a melting ice block in the lake! I am cold-blooded. Coldwater doesn't suit me well. When my friends were laughing at me, I was drowning! They were laughing at me when I should have died in the ice-cold water! How dare they laugh at me for nearly dying in the lake! Why didn't they took the time to warn me or help me before the ice melted! I'll tell you why! They don't care about me! If they did, then they'll save me instead of watching me drown! It's like they wanted me to die already!"

"Th-Th-That's n-n-not...true..." Twilight pants heavily. Her heart feels heavy. "He's my number one assistant...He's my friend...I...I...I...wouldn't treat...him...like this..." Twilight continues to read. 

"Dear Journal,

I'm back home from the Gala. Despite my friends telling me their stories of how bad their night was, I still had a bad night. Instead of doing what I wanted to do, they left me. Ditch me as they tried to have fun. It's still no excuse for their behavior. All I did was sit alone and eat donuts until the night was over. I never felt so lonely while traveling with my friends to the Gala. Am I worthless to them?"

"Wh-what..? Worthless?" Twilight is starting to have a heartache. She feels butterflies flying in her stomach. Her eyes are getting red from the tears. "Spike...what have I done to you..? What...have we done to you..?" 

Twilight read more journal entries. Each one is worse than the last. Twilight is starting to understand Spike's motives. Wanting to run away seems plausible. Twilight cries uncontrollably. She finished reading the book. All she wants to do now is apologize for being a monster. Rainbow Dash and her friends check on Twilight after hearing her wails. 

"Twilight! Why are you crying?"

Twilight uses her magic and levitate Spike's journal.

"Spike's Friend?" The girls said in unison. 

An hour passed as Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy read Spike's journal. Tears stream down their faces. They felt like monsters for doing this to Spike. After a while of crying their eyes out, Rainbow speaks. 

"Twilight, what are we going to do..?"

"Rainbow Dash, how fast can you fly from here to Canterlot?"

"At the least, ten minutes with the Sonic Rainboom. What you have in mind?"

Twilight takes a quill and writes down her letter to Princess Celestia. Twilight hand over the letter to Rainbow Dash.

"Fly to Canterlot. Let Princess Celestia know what's been going on. She'll know what to do."

"You got it, Twilight." Rainbow sniffs and flies as fast as she can towards Canterlot. She does the Sonic Rainboom for more speed. 

"Uh, Twilight? What should we do?" Pinkie asks. 

"Go home and rest. I have a mess to clean up."
> Nightmares
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rainbow Dash barges into Celestia's throne room with an urgent message from Twilight Sparkle. 

"Princess Celestia! I have a letter from Twilight!"		

"From Twilight? Why didn't Spike send the message?"	

"Spike's missing! That's why!"

"Alright, Rainbow Dash," Celestia calmly says. "Show me the letter Twilight wrote." 

Rainbow gives Princess Celestia the letter. 

"Dear Princess Celestia,

Spike has run away from home. His reasons for leaving are due to how my friends and I have been treating him. My friends and I had no idea the trauma we inflicted on him. Physical and emotional trauma. Spike and I fought earlier today. Then I wanted to make up for my mistake with a surprise party. After hours of searching for Spike, I stumbled upon his journal, read it, and learned why he would run away. I need your utmost importance to search for Spike by any means.

You're Student,
Princess Twilight Sparkle"

Princess Celestia sighs, then turns to Rainbow Dash. "Where is his journal?"

"Back at the Golden Oak Library."

Princess Celestia sighs again. "Alright, go back to Ponyville. Tell Twilight to prepare for my arrival. I need to have a word with her. Meanwhile, I'll have my Royal Guards go on a search party to locate Spike. Also, when Spike sleeps, I'll have Luna find Spike in his dreams. She should be able to detect Spike's location."

"I will. Thank you, Princess Celestia," Rainbow bows.

Rainbow Dash flies out of Celestia's throne. Then Princess Celestia gets up and flies over to a Royal Guard. 

"Get your platoon ready. You're going on a search party."

"Yes, my Princess."

The Royal Guards got together and took flight in search of Spike. Princess Celestia cancels her meetings for today. She starts writing a letter and sends it to Princess Cadance. She hopes that Spike decided to reside at the Crystal Empire for a while. Luna is trotting towards Celestia to have a brief discussion. 

"Afternoon, dear sister. How are you today?"

"Not well, Luna. Spike has gone missing."		

"Why? What may have caused Spike to go missing?"

"Twilight. Twilight and her friends may have caused Spike to run away. Or, something else may have manipulated their minds into thinking Spike has run away."

"Thou believe Discord is one to blame?"

"Yes. Even though Fluttershy has reformed Discord, I do believe that Discord is the one behind all of this."

"Well, Celestia. You are so uninvited to my birthday party," Discord said as he rises from the floor they stepping on. He stretches and looks unamused. "You believe I would manipulate the minds of my friends?"

"I don't believe that Twilight and her friends would ever cause serious harm to Spike. You on the other hoof would despite your reformed and chaotic nature."		

"Well, Celestia," Discord said as he holds Spike's journal. "According to Spike's Friend, he documented everything that's ever happened to him during his tenor in Ponyville. Even the times when I was still in my stonified prison state."

Princess Celestia, in anger, snatches the book from Discord's grasps then reads it.

"Dear Journal,

Thanks to Princess Celestia, I am in pain! She spam mails me to get to Twilight! My stomach feels like it's inside out! I burped so many letters that make me feel like my lungs were punctured! Why can't that stupid Princess send out the more important ones? Make it easy for me to handle. No, she decides to torture me to defeat Discord. I understand when Twilight read the letters, it made her realize who she is and what our friends are meant to be. Twilight and the wielders of the Elements turn Discord back to stone. At the cost of Twilight reverting to normal? My suffering. My suffering helps ponies. I wished that wasn't the case. I do hope things will get better from here and out."

Princess Celestia and Luna are in a state of shock after reading Spike's journal entry. Princess Celestia didn't mean for Spike to feel like that. She thought of helping Twilight but never thought of how Spike would feel. The magic of sending letters overwhelm his small body. Princess Celestia continues to read all the other entries in Spike's journal. Celestia, Luna, and Discord are disgusted and shocked beyond belief. Each entry Celestia reads out loud makes Celestia infuriated towards her pupil Twilight and the wielders of the Elements. Luna sheds some tears as Spike has endured more heartache than she has in a thousand years. Discord opens a portal and puts the book back where it belongs. 

"Sister?" Luna said as she puts a hoof on Celestia. 

"I need time alone, Luna. Discord, my apologies for accusing you of being a prime suspect."	

"Apologies excepted, Celestia."

"Thanks, and Luna?"

"Yes, Celestia?"	

"When Spike slumbers, find him so we can locate his whereabouts."

"Yes, sister."

Discord decides to go home, Luna walks down the corridors, and Celestia enters her room. She needs to recollect her thoughts and address the situation to Twilight and her friends thoroughly. "Spike, please...forgive us for the pain and suffering you endured..." Celestia said as a tear out of her eye.

At the Golden Oak Library, Twilight is cleaning the mess she made last night. Reorganizing the books, putting notes away, writing her theories and algorithms from the chalkboard, clean the floors, and putting her quills away. Twilight sits down on the floor, exhausted. Her magic is a bit drained from the cleaning. She then mutters, "at least the library is clean when Spike comes back home." Twilight gets up and goes to her room. She uses her magic to levitate a picture of him and Spike together. She clutches it tightly against her chest as a new stream of tears came out of her eyes. She sobs and imagines the picture to be her baby dragon. "I'm sorry, Spike. I'm sorry, Spike. I'm sorry, Spike. I'm sorry, Spike. I'm sorry, Spike. I'm sorry, Spike. I'm sorry, Spike. I'm sorry, Spike! I'm sorry, Spike! I'm sorry, Spike! I'm sorry, Spike! I'm sorry, Spike! I'm sorry, Spike! I'm sorry, Spike!" Twilight continues to repeat herself in bed. 

Lemon Zest and Spike are now at Zesty Fields after taking a longer route around to show Spike more of Pony Central. Spike yawns and is looking forward to good sleep. It's 4:30 in the afternoon. Lemon opens the door to her house and allows Spike to get off of her back. He looks around and sits on a couch. 

"So, is this where I'm sleeping for the week?"

"No," Lemon said as she shakes her head. "I have spare bedrooms in the house in case my friends want to sleepover. I'll be giving you one of the spare bedrooms. I want you to feel right at home without the physical and emotional trauma you've endured."

"Thanks," Spike yawns. "Lemon Zest. Where is one of the spare rooms?"		

"Upstairs. I'll show you which one you can have."

Lemon and Spike walk up the stairs and down the hallway. Lemon stops and opens the spare room door. Inside the room are a twin size bed, a few Shadowbolt posters, a mini-fridge, a small bathroom, two drawers, and three sets of windows. Spike walks in and puts his bag near the bed. 

"Thank you," Spike sniffs as tears of joy come out. "Thank you so much, Lemon Zest." 

Lemon smiles. She walks up to Spike and hugs him. "You're welcome, Spike. You deserve a happy life after the trauma you endured."

"So, Lemon Zest. What time is the party?"

"I would say around 9:30 tonight. I hope to see you there when I wake you."

"I'll be there. You can bet on that."

"Perfect. I'll let you be. If you need anything, just holla."

Lemon closes the door and walks downstairs to the living room. Spike starts to unpack his things. He takes out his toothbrush, blanket, some comics, some figurines, his pillow, and a picture of him and Twilight. Spike gazes at the picture. He couldn't help but feel sad. Spike puts the picture in drawers, now regretting to pack it when he should have left it behind. Spike yawns and climbs in bed. He takes a deep breath and closes his eyes to sleep. 

Rainbow Dash lands and enters the Golden Oak Library. She walks up the stairs and notices Twilight's bedroom door is open. She takes a peek inside and sees Twilight crying uncontrollably. She's still clutching onto the picture of her and Spike. Rainbow Dash flies over to Twilight and tries to snap Twilight out of her trance. After a few moments, Twilight stops crying and looks at Rainbow Dash. Her eyes are red due to the sheer amount of tears she's shed. Twilight pants and tries to calm herself down now that Rainbow is here.

"Hey, Twilight. Princess Celestia will be coming later today. Be prepared for her arrival. Also, she'll have a long talk with you."

"Okay, Rainbow. Thanks for delivering the message for me."

"You're welcome, Twi. I better get going," Rainbow said as she flies through the window. 

Twilight gets out of bed and walks down the stairs into the kitchen. She's going to brew some tea for when the Princess arrives.

Princess Celestia is packing some things to bring with her. She has told Raven to cancel all meetings for the remainder of the week. It is now 5:00 in the afternoon. Two hours left before lowering down the sun. Princess Luna comes in to check on Celestia. 

"Celestia?"

"Yes, Luna?"

"You going to stay in Ponyville for a few days?"

"Yes, I am. Finding Spike is a priority. Spike hinges on Twilight and how she feels. Without Spike, I do believe that Twilight will not become the Princess she's supposed to be. However, she's going to learn on proper parenting and handling with a different species."

"I see, therefore I'm in control of Canterlot?"

"Yes, Luna."

"Mind waiting an hour before you go? I want to see if Spike could be dreaming right now."

"Alright, Luna. Go and check. If Spike is asleep, find out where he's residing."

"Will do, Celestia."

Princess Luna enters the dream realm in search of Spike. Princess Celestia receives a letter from Princess Cadance. 

"Dear Princess Celestia,

I hate to say this but, Spike is not residing here at the Crystal Empire. My Crystal Guards searched all over the Empire. I am sending Shining Armor to Ponyville. He should be there in less than a day. I do hope that Twilight is okay. I'll continue the search at the Crystal Empire until further notice.

Sincerely, 

Princess Cadance"

Princess Celestia sighs heavily. Spike is not at the Crystal Empire. Therefore, he must be residing in different remote areas of Equestria. Princess Celestia now waits until Luna returns from the dream realm. 

Princess Luna is now in the dream realm. She walks around in hopes of finding Spike's dream. She hears Spike screaming and flies over to his door. Princess Luna finds out where Spike is sleeping since the dream realm shows the location where every creature sleeps. 

"Pony Central. I haven't been here in a thousand years. Let's see what you are dreaming, Spike," Luna said as she opens the door.

Spike is drowning at the lake. The ice block he was sleeping on melted. Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Applejack are laughing at his misery. Spike is freezing to death. Then as he's underwater, he lands on a pile of books at the Golden Oaks Library. Piles of books rain down on Spike, crushing him. He pops his head out and calls for Twilight. Twilight turns and tells him to stay as she goes out with her friends. Twilight vanishes as darkness starts to swallow him. That's when Luna comes in and stops the nightmare. Spike looks up and sees Princess Luna.

"Princess Luna, what are you doing here?"

Princess Luna closes her eyes then sighs. "I am here to find you, Spike."

"Why? Why are you now showing up in my nightmares when I ran away from home? Why didn't you come when I was living with Twilight?"

Princess Luna sighs again. She expected that kind of question from Spike. "Nightmares from other ponies have kept me occupied. If I have known that your state of mind was far worse than what's written in your journal, then I would have come sooner. My apologies, Spike."

"My journal? You read my journal?!" Spike angrily shouts. 

"Yes. My sister, Discord, and I read your journal. I am deeply sorry for the trauma you've endured. Please understand what I'm doing is for the better of..."

"Let me guess, Twilight. You're here to help Twilight, now when she's in dire need."

"Yes."

"Then I have a message for you to tell her. Tell Twilight that I will never come back to Ponyville! I am tired of being used. I am tired of being abused. I am tired of being and feeling neglected. I want to be happy. I want to be loved by friends. Go on epic adventures, party, and live my life the way she is living her life," Spike sighs heavily. "Princess Luna, please, don't tell anyone where I'm residing at."		

Princess Luna is now thinking of her choices. She can tell Celestia of Spike's whereabouts and hope things will go back to normal. She can ruin Spike's new beginning in life by telling Twilight and the others. Luna looks up and sighs heavily. 

"Very well, Spike. I won't tell anypony of your whereabouts. Just know that in due time, Twilight and her friends will eventually find you."

Spike sighs heavily. "Thanks, Luna. I wish we were in better circumstances."

"Me too," Luna said as she leaves Spike's dream.

Princess Luna returns to Canterlot after her visit with Spike. She looks at Princess Celestia.

"Were you able to locate Spike, Luna?"

"Yes, however, the location of his whereabouts is unknown to me," Luna said calmly. "I'll have to try another time when I can."

"Were you able to talk to him?"

"Yes." Luna sighs. "He scolds me for not intervening when he was suffering from nightmares while living with Twilight. Even I have upset him." 

"It's not your fault, Luna," Celestia and Luna embrace each other. Then Celestia takes flight. Flying straight to Ponyville now that Luna is in charge of Ponyville.  

Twilight has now finished brewing tea. She calmed herself down from the hours of crying. She now waits for Princess Celestia's arrival. Her heart is pounding as she expects the worst from Princess Celestia. Twilight grabs Spike's journal and clutches tightly. She has to reveal Spike's inner thoughts no matter how painful it is. Princess Celestia lands and knocks on the door. Twilight trots with her head down and opens the door. She looks at the Princess and allows her to come in. 

Twilight sits on a cushion and stares at her teacher. Princess Celestia looks down at Twilight and speaks. 

"Twilight Sparkle, we need to talk."

"Of course. So, are we going to talk about locating Spike?"	

"Not just yet. First, I need to talk to your friends as well. They need to hear what I have to say."	

"Alright. I'll bring my friends over. Be back as soon as possible," Twilight said as she leaves the library. She closes the door and feels her heart pumping fast. In a half-hour, Twilight brought her friends to the library where the Princess is waiting.

"I wonder what Princess Celestia has to tell us," Rainbow stated. 

"Probably something very unpleasant," Rarity said. 

"I have a feeling it has to do with Spike," Fluttershy said. 

"Well, we won't find out standing out here. Let's get a move-on," Applejack stated. 

Twilight and her friends enter the library and gathers around Princess Celestia. Princess Celestia gave each a stern look as they sit down.

"Now that everypony is here, I have something to tell you all," She sighs then goes straight to business. "With all the friendship lessons you girls have learnt thus far, why was Spike left out? Why was Spike not involved with some of your parties, adventures, and get-togethers?"

Some of the girls sweated a bit when Celestia asked those questions. They didn't have an answer to respond.

"I'll ask again, why was Spike left out in most activities you all do?"

"Well, uh, your highness. Spike was quite busy with chores when we go out. He's always doing something and well," Applejack chokes on her spit a little as she stares at Princess Celestia.

"You assume that Spike was too busy to drop what's he's doing to come or give a valid reason to say no."

Applejack sweats a bit, not knowing what else to say. Princess Celestia turns to Pinkie Pie. 

"Pinkie Pie." Pinkie gulps as her mane deflate.  "Why haven't you been inviting Spike to come to your parties? Is he not your friend?"	

"Spike is my friend. I guess he kinda slipped in my mind," Pinkie chuckles nervously. 

"Rarity." Rarity gulps. "Why are you using Spike as a pincushion? Why are you using him as a tool?"		

"Well, Princess Celestia, he offers his assistance. He's a tough baby dragon and doesn't feel any back pain."

"Do you thank him for his assistance? Do you appreciate what he's done for you?"

"I, uh. I give Spike a small reward for his help. He truly is a nice baby dragon."

"Do you say thank you to him or not?"

"I do...Just not a lot..."

"Uh, Princess Celestia? Not to be rude or anything but, what's the point of you asking these questions?" Rainbow asks. 

"Want to get to the point? Fine," Celestia said as she uses her magic to levitate Spike's journal. "With the help of Discord earlier today, he spawned the journal for me to read. I now know everything that Spike endured in the hooves of you all. The physical and emotional trauma. What I am teaching you all is to never ever take anyone for granted. They may end up leaving when enough is enough."	

Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy have their heads down. Now the Princess has learned the truth. Twilight walks up to Celestia. 

"I'm sorry, Princess. I let you down." Twilight said.

"We all let you down, Princess." Applejack stated. 

"No, you didn't let me down. You let Spike down."

Silence reign for a few moments. 

"Now, we have other matters to attend to."

"Are we still going to search for Spike?" Twilight asks. 

"Yes, and you're going to have a second chance with him on My Authority. I will take Spike away from you if you use and abused him again, Twilight. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, Princess Celestia," Twilight said with guilt and shame.

"As for the rest of you, you should be ashamed of yourselves from the way you treated your friend. Don't ever discriminate, Spike again. Do I make myself clear?" Celestia said in her Royal Voice.

"Yes, Princess Celestia." The girls said in unison and bowing respect to Princess Celestia. 

"Now, let's hope that Spike is in good hooves as the search continues."

"Yes, Princess." Everyone said in unisson. 

There's a knock on the door. Twilight trots to the door and opens it. 

"Twily," Shining said. "How are you feeling?"		

"Hiya, big bro. I'm not feeling well. Spike ran away, Shining. We don't know where he ran off to."

"Well, hopefully, we'll find him. Also, he's not at the Crystal Empire. I checked. Cadance has checked. The Crystal Guards has checked. I brought a map of Equestria. We can form teams to search for Spike."

"Good thinking, big bro."	

"Also, I have the Royal Guard on a search party in search of Spike. I am expecting a report shortly."

"Good, Princess. I'll head north of Ponyville," Shining said. 

"The girls and I can take a train to a random location and begin our search from there. Knowing Spike, he'll look for a remote area where we would not think of," Twilight said. 

"I'll search southern of Ponyville," Princess Celestia said.

"Alright, everypony. Let's move out!"

"Right!" Everyone said in unison.

Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Fluttershy runs towards the train station now waiting for a train to pull up. Shining Armor runs up north and follows a trail. Princess Celestia flies down south. In the back of Twilight's mind, she fears that something horrid must be happening to Spike. Only time will tell as the train pulls up.
> A Party to Remember
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack boards the train. She decides to sit alone for the train ride. As the train pulls out of the station, Twilight conjures many ways to apologize to Spike when she sees him. Less than a day and Twilight is a wreck. Her friends sit near her on the train. Everypony can only feel shame that they disappointed Spike, not Celestia. The words of Princess Celestia now buries deep in their hearts. Twilight and the others hope that Spike isn't in danger. 

It is now 8:45 at night. Lemon Zest walks up the stairs and knocks on the bedroom door. 

"Spike, are you awake?"

"Yes, Lemon."

"Can I come in?"

"Door's open."

Lemon walks into the room. She sees Spike balled-up and holding himself. Lemon gets closer with a worried expression written on her face. 

"You okay, Spike?" 

"No...I'm not okay."

"What's wrong? You can tell me anything that's bothering you."

"I had a nightmare. My friends were laughing at me when I was nearly drowning back in Ponyville. Then after I submerged, I landed in the Golden Oak Library. Then a pile of books crushes me. Twilight decides to leave me behind as darkness was swallowing me. Princess Luna arrived then end the nightmare. Out of all the times I suffered through nightmares, she happens to appear today of all days."

"Princess Luna came to help you? Isn't that a good thing, Spike?"

"NO! She came when I just left Twilight! She came to help Twilight find me! I don't want to go back!" Spike angrily shouts. Tears stream down as he breaks down. "I don't want to go back..." Spike said as he's starting to break down. 

Lemon Zest hugs Spike as he cries. Lemon can feel the pain Spike's going through. It's clear to her that she cannot and will not allow Spike to go back to Twilight. 

"Spike, look at me," Spike looks at Lemon. "I promise you that things will be better. Our friends and I will do everything we can to prevent Twilight from taking you back."

"Re-Really?" Spike sniffs. 

"Of course. We are your family. Family sticks together."

Spike clutches and holds onto Lemon. Thanking her repeatedly then Lemon pats his head. 

"There's something else I didn't tell you."

"What is it, Spike?"

"Princess Luna told me, she won't tell the others of my whereabouts."

"That's good, Spike."

"Now, I fear that Twilight won't stop looking for me. It's only a matter of time before..."

"Spike, listen to me. Everything will be fine. Also, want to come with me to town to pick up a few things? I'll let you ride on my back."

"Sure, I would love to come."

Lemon and Spike leave the house. Spike gets on Lemon's back and trots into town. Lemon walks into a gaming store. Spike gets off of Lemon's back to look around a bit. 

"Hey, Spike. See if you can find a spinner. It's for a special roulette game we're going to play tonight."

"Sure thing, Lemon."

"I'll look for different board games and card games to play as well."

Spike mutters to himself, "Finally, equal terms for once."

Indigo Zap and Sugarcoat walks in the gaming store. They see Spike and Lemon. 

"Hey, you two!" Indigo shouted. "Getting the pieces together for our annual game night party?"

"Yea," Lemon said. 

"Game night party?" Spike questions.

"Yes. The girls and I throw one every week. Tonight's game is going to be quite delectable."

"Cool! By the way, Lemon. I found a spinner."

"Cool, Spike," Lemon said as she takes the spinner from Spike. "I'll put it on the counter."

"Hey, Spike. Is there something you want from the store?" Indigo asks. 

"Yea, there is. An autographed Power Pony Zapp figurine. Though it costs 50 bits."

"Zapp, huh? I'll pay for it since it has my name written on it," Indigo said. 

"Really?! I'll pay you back as soon as I..." Spike gets cut off from Indigo's hoof.

"No need to. It's my gift to you."

Spike smiles, he grabs the autographed Power Pony Zapp figurine and places it on the counter. Indigo pays 50 bits and gives Spike his present.

"Thank you, Indigo."

"Ah, no problem."

Spike hugs Indigo for her kind deed. Indigo hugs back with her wing. Sugarcoat trots down an aisle to picks up laser beams for the disco ball. Lemon Zest brought a few card games and board games to the counter. She pays 80 bits in total. Sugarcoat pays 25 bits for the laser beams that'll go nicely with the disco ball. Spike, Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, and Sugarcoat leave the store. They see Sour Sweet slowly carrying a four-layer cake on her back. 

"Hey, Sour Sweet. Need some assistance?" Spike asks. 

"Yes, please."

"I'll help carry it for you," Spike said.

"With my magic maintaining balance," Sugarcoat said. 

"Thank you, both," Sour said. 

Spike picks up the cake from Sour's back. Sugarcoat uses her magic to hold the cake in place for Spike. They walk together slowly. Sunny Flare is flying towards Zesty fields when she sees her friends walking slow. She lands next to them. 

"Hey, everypony. Hey, Spike."

"Hey, Sunny," Everyone said in unison. 

"Excited for the game night party tonight?"

Everyone nods in agreement. 

"My first party since...my actual birthday."

"What?!" The girls shouted. 

"Well, coronations doesn't count for me since it's an achievement of Twilight Sparkle becoming a new alicorn. I don't remember any other party than that since."

"Well, times are changing," Sour said. 

"Yea, you're going to be more involved than ever," Indigo stated proudly. 

"Get ready for some laughter," Sugarcoat said. 

"Get ready to create memories," Sunny said. 

"Get ready to sing, dance, and have fun!" Lemon said. 

"Thanks, everypony," Spike said. 

"You're welcome," The girls said in unison as they all walk to Zesty Fields. 	

It is now 9:00 at night. The train pulls into the station. Twilight looks out the window and sees a path leading into the forest. Thinking that it'll lead to a town, Twilight and her friends decide to get off of the train. Once they get into town, they'll check off the location they are visiting in search of Spike.  

"Alright, everypony. Let's stick together as we walk on the trail way," Twilight said. 

"Okay, Twilight. Lead the way," Applejack said. 

Twilight and her friends walk down on the trail. Twilight and Rarity use their magic to light the way since it's dark in the forest. No pony talk throughout the walk. Celestia's words still linger in their minds after what she said; "You didn't let me down, you let Spike down. You should be ashamed of yourselves from the way you treated your friend. Don't ever discriminate, Spike again." The guilt carries on in their minds. All they want is to have a second chance to redeem themselves. To have Spike back in their lives once more. A few minutes later, Applejack sees a lemon tree. The others are seeing lemon trees. 

"Well, I'll be, it's a lemon tree orchard," Applejack stated. 

"Hmm, I wonder who owns it," Rarity said. 

"I wonder if they have lemon juice!" Pinkie shouted. 

"We don't have time for lemons. We need to find Spike, girls," Twilight stated. 

"Yes, ma'am," Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie said. 

As they trot, Twilight sees Spike carrying something, an earth pony opening a door, and several ponies entering. Spike is the last to enter. 

"Girls, Spike is closer than we think."

"Let's go see who those ponies are," Rainbow stated. 

Twilight and her friends trot towards the house. It'll take at least twenty minutes to get there.

"Alright, Spike," Lemon said. "This game we're about to play is called The Sour Sweet Roulette."

Sugarcoat puts the cake in the kitchen then returns to the living room.

"Yea, each of us will spin the spinner and take a bite out of a random candy. Some candies are sweet. Some candies are sour," Sour explains. 

"There are only three rules. Rule one, every player gets three strikes. Rule two, if the candy is too sour and you spit it out, that's a strike taken away. Rule three, the winner decides the next activity for the party," Indigo said.

Sour Sweet and Sunny Flare unwraps the candy then pour them into a bowl. Everyone sits down near the table, getting ready to play. 

"I'll start," Lemon said. She spins the spinner. The spinner stops in front of Sunny Flare. Sunny takes a candy then eats it.

"Well, Sunny. How it tastes?" Sour asks. 

"Sweet. Sweet like a cherry."

"Darn," Indigo said.

"My turn to spin," Sunny said. She uses her wing to spin the spinner. The spinner stops in front of Indigo. 

"Uh oh," Indigo said. 

"Go on. Take your candy," Sunny said as she chuckles. 

Indigo grabs a candy then eats it. Luckily for her, the candy is sweet. She sighs in relief. 

"Boy, I am lucky," Indigo said. 

"Luck won't get you far. Spin, Indigo," Sour said. 

Indigo spins the spinner. This time, the spinner stops in front of her. "Oh, c'mon! You got to be kidding me!"	

"Take another candy, Indigo," Sunny said. 

Indigo takes another candy then eats it. Her lips go inside of her. She picked the sour candy. She holds onto her cheeks as she squirms around a little due to the sour candy. The girls giggle at Indigo's soured face. 

"Want to spit it out, Indigo?" Lemon said mockingly.

Indigo shook her head no as she's going to suck up the soured candy. After a few moments, she swallows the candy. 

"Ah, my cheeks hurt a little."

"Hey, Indigo. What flavor was it?" Spike asks. 

"Lemon flavored."

Lemon couldn't help but laugh a little. "Well, geez, sorry that I'm sour."

"Hey, I'm Sour."

The group has a good laugh. Then Indigo spins the spinner. The spinner stops in front of Spike.

"Alright, it's my turn!" Spike shouts excitedly. Then he takes a candy then eats it. 

Around that time, Twilight and her friends made it to the house. They peep through the window to see what was going on. Twilight saw the horrid faces of a group of ponies laughing at Spike's misery. His lips are inside out. He's holding onto his cheeks and runs around in circles. Twilight in anger backs away from the window.

"So they are torturing, Spike? Well, it's time to change all of that right now!" Twilight shouts angrily. "Everypony, let's get our friend back!" 

Applejack bucks down the front door. Everypony in the living room gasps. Twilight Sparkle, without hesitation, shoot magic beams at Lemon, Sunny, Indigo, Sour, and Sugarcoat. Rainbow Dash picks up Spike and flies out of the house. Rainbow puts Spike near a lemon tree for him to recover. Twilight trots over to Spike, checking on him. Indigo Zap, now infuriated, retaliates by flying after Rainbow Dash. Sunny Flare gets up and flies after the group of ponies who took Spike. Sugarcoat, Lemon, and Sour trots after the group.

"Spike, are you okay?" Rainbow asks.

Twilight and the others catch up to Rainbow Dash near a lemon tree. Twilight with tears in her eyes gets closer to Spike.

"Spike, are you okay?" Twilight asks sincerely.

Spike snaps out of his soured face. When he sees Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy, fear struck his heart. The fear of being taken away is real. His heart is pumping as he looks at the monsters who abused and used him.

"Spike, are you..." Rainbow Dash is cut off as Indigo tackles from the skies.

"Rainbow Dash!" Twilight shouts.

"Get away from him!" Sunny Flare shouts. Using her wings, she manipulated the winds to blow Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy away from Spike. Twilight using her magic remains in place.

Sugarcoat uses her magic to teleports in front of Spike.

"You won't take him away!" Sugarcoat yells.

Lemon Zest and Sour Sweet get in front of Spike as well. Indigo Zap bites on one of Rainbow's wings and pulls hard. She heard a popping sound. Then she releases her grip and flies over to where Spike is and stands in front of him. Rainbow wails in agony. She is unable to fly. Sunny Flare flies towards Spike and stands in front of him.

"You are not going to ruin his life anymore!" Indigo shouts.

"You are not going to use him!" Sugarcoat shouts.

"You are not going to abuse him!" Sour shouts.

"You are not getting a second chance!" Sunny shouts.

"All of you are in deep trouble. You break into my house, assaulted my friends, and ruin Spike's party!" Lemon angrily shouts.

"You were laughing at Spike! You were laughing at his misery! How dare you laugh at his misery?!" Twilight shouts back.

"Shut up, Twilight!" Spike shouts angrily.

Everypony around Spike remains silent. Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy trots over to Twilight. Spike walks in front of his friends to confront Twilight.

"You are such a hypocrite. Judging others for laughing at me when you and the wielders have done it before. Plus, we were playing a Sour Sweet Roulette Game."

Twilight now sees the error of her planning. She assumed instead of taking a further study on what they were doing.

"All of my life living with you in Ponyville has been nothing but Tartarus. I live in constant fear of always being alone. You go out and live your life while I'm at the library doing your chores because you were lazy to do it yourself. I figured by now you read my journal. That's why you came after me. To bring me back home and to start over."

"Yes, Spike. I am truly sorry for how I handled you. For how I treated you, used you, and left you. I am a terrible friend. I never wanted you to feel the way you are right now. I'm sorry that I failed you, Spike. Please, find it in your heart to forgive me," Twilight said as she got closer to Spike. Reaching her wing out and expecting Spike to hug her.

"She's not the only one, sugarcube," Applejack said.

"Yea...Ow!" Rainbow shouted a little. Her broken wing is bothering her as she walks.

"I'm wrong for using you, Spike. I used my beauty and charms to make you do extra for me. And the time I made you give up that Fire Ruby before your birthday," Rarity said.

"You...what?!" Spike shouts angrily.

"Oops..."

"You mean to tell me instead of me enjoying my birthday dinner; you tricked me into giving up the Fire Ruby I've aged?!"

Rarity is slow to answer that question.

"Well, uh, you see, Spike..."

"Shut up, Rarity!" Spike roars in anger. His roar is loud enough for anyone to hear miles away from where he's standing.

Rarity hides her face in shame. She starts sobbing. 

"Spike, calm down," Fluttershy said.

Spike turns and gives Fluttershy a death stare. Fluttershy quietly murmurs, quivers, and stays behind Pinkie Pie.

"Look, Spike. We've done things that we're not proud of," Twilight stated. "Listen to us, Spike. Give us the redemption to make things better for you. We can go back to Ponyville and start new, like a family. We'll bring you on epic adventures, parties, and we'll create new memories together. What do you say?" Twilight slightly smiles. Hoping it'll be good enough for Spike to say yes.

"Sounds like a bribe to me," Spike said.

Twilight twitches once more, her smile fades away, her ears flopping.

"Bribe? You think I'm bribing you?!" Twilight yells.

"This isn't the first time you tried bribing me! You are giving me false hope! I don't trust you anymore! Every day you give me the same routine; work, clean, sleep, repeat! I'm nothing more than a slave to you all! You get to live your life Twilight while I stay at the library like I'm in prison! I'm used, abused, mocked, laughed at, and left behind! For the first time in a long time, I have REAL friends! I have a REAL family! Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare are my FRIENDS! They are my FAMILY! Unlike you Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack; they don't use me, they don't mock me for who I am, they have shown me kindness, love, respect, sincerity, and fellowship. Something in which none of you have shown me. That is why I'm not going anywhere. I'm staying. There is nothing you can say or do to change my decision. I'm done with you, Twilight. I wished somepony else hatched me, Spike said as he turns on Twilight.

"Well, Spike," Twilight said shakenly. "I have news for you whether you like it or not...Princess Celestia said I get to have a second chance with you on her Authority. Therefore, you don't have a choice for the matter. Princess Celestia's orders, let's go, Spike!" Twilight said as she's losing her patience.

"You are insane, Twilight. I am not leaving with you on anyone's authority," Spike said.

"Fine, I'll take you by force! I'll erase your memories so we can start over!" Twilight shouts. She's now going into insanity. 

Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash jaws drop after hearing what Twilight just said. Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare now gets in front of Spike. They won't let this demon take Spike back.

"THAT IS ENOUGH, TWILIGHT SPARKLE!" Princess Celestia said in her Royal Voice.

Twilight froze in fear. She then looks to see Princess Celestia landing in front of everyone. Twilight couldn't help but pant heavily. Her heart is beating rapidly, her eye pupils shrink, knees shaking, tears pouring out. 

"I am very disappointed with you, Twilight." Celestia turns to the wielders of the Elements. "The search is called off. I want each of you to go home. Never return to this town again. I hereby banish all of you from entering Pony Central until further notice," Celestia now turns to Twilight. "Princess Twilight Sparkle," Twilight looks at Celestia. She begs not to take Spike away. "You are relieved of caring for Spike as you have no regard. Until further notice, you are not eligible to write letters and visit him until you have Spike's approval."

"No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, NOOOOOO! Twilight begs. She bows down for Celestia to give her another chance. Twilight cries. She disappointed Spike and now displeased the Princess.  

"My decision is final. Twilight, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash; go home. I need a word with Spike and his new friends."

"But..." Twilight said.

"C'mon sugarcube. Let's not get ourselves in anymore trouble with the Princess."

"Princess Celestia!" Rainbow shouted. "That hag, Indigo Zap broke my wing!"

"Leave!" Princess Celestia said in her Royal tone. Not wanting to be bothered with the wielders of the Elements, she wants to focus on Spike and his new friends. Rainbow Dash trots as fast as she can. Twilight with tears in her eyes, regret, and sorrow now have to face the consequences. 

"Princess Celestia," Spike said. "What's going to happen now?"

Princess Celestia takes a deep breath. Then she spoke. "I heard from a distance how Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare are your new friends. They are your family, Spike. I'm sorry for what you've endured in your life leading up to this day. You'll get to live the life you want from here and out. In due time, however, find it in your heart to give Twilight and the others a second chance. Everyone now and then deserves redemption."			

"I will...when the time is right."

Celestia smiles. "You're in good hooves now Spike. Now, I'm going to have a serious discussion with Princess Twilight Sparkle. As for the rest of you, don't make the same mistake that Twilight and her friends made. Be better than them for his sake. If you need me, Spike, you can always send letters to me. I'll answer them and be right with you shortly after."

"I will write to you when I need too," Spike said.

"We will, Princess," Lemon, Indigo, Sugarcoat, Sour, and Sunny said in unison. 

"Thank you," Celestia flaps her wings. "I'll come by to visit you in a few days, everyone. Have a nice night," Celestia said as she flies off to Ponyville. 

Spike smiles as he turns to his new friends. They hugged him. 

"Hey, we have a party to continue. The night is still young," Indigo said. 

"Yea, and I'll win in the Sour Sweet Roulette game! It's my turn to spin after all!"		

Indigo puts Spike on her back. She flies with Sunny Flare back to the house. Sugarcoat, Sour, and Lemon trots back to the house. It's time to continue where they left off.
> The Night
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash are now waiting for the next train to take them back to Ponyville. The train approaches the station. Twilight gets in first then sits alone in the back of the train. Her friends get on board and isolate themselves from Twilight. They are stunned after Twilight threatens to erase Spike's mind.  Twilight in her broken state expects Celestia to banish her from Equestria and disown her as her student. "I will fix this, no matter the cost," Twilight mutters as she looks out the window.

Spike, Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare are back in the house. They fixed the door that Applejack bucked down, cleaned up the mess Twilight made when she zapped everypony while rescuing Spike, and they put the candies back in the bowl. Spike, now free of Twilight Sparkle, can move on with his life.  

"Alright, everyone," Spike said, "Let's see who's next," Spike spins the spinner. The spinner stops in front of Lemon Zest. 

"Lemon," Sour said. "Pick your poison."	

Lemon picks a candy and eats it. "Mmm, sweet apple-flavored."

"Oh, c'mon! Spike and I can't be the only ones getting soured faces!" Indigo said.

"Let's see what happens next," Lemon spins the spinner. The spinner stops in front of Sour. 

Sour pick a candy and eat it. Her face turns sour immediately. She's holding onto her cheeks and spits the candy in the bucket. "Ah! Sour lemon!" 

Lemon Zest couldn't help but laugh. Everyone else chuckled.

"I hope you get a sour lemon, Lemon."

"We'll see what happens, Sour. Now please, spin the spinner."

Sour spins the spinner, the spinner stops in front of Sugarcoat. 

Sugarcoat wastes no time and chooses a random candy. She eats it and immediately starts to have a soured face. She stays calm as she holds her cheeks. The soured candy is too much as she spits it out. "Sour...lemon..."

"Wow, I'm two for two," Lemon said. 

The game continues for a half-hour. Sugarcoat was first to be eliminated. Then Sour Sweet, Indigo Zap, Lemon Zest, and Spike. Sunny Flare emerge victoriously. She decides that everyone eats the cake that Sour Sweet baked earlier today. Everypony and dragon go to the kitchen. Sugarcoat, using her magic, cuts the cake. She levitates the sliced cake to everyone around the table. She sits next to Spike and Indigo. 

"So, Spike. Enjoyed the game?" Sour said. 

"Yes, I did. It was fun. The sour grapes and lemons did a number on me."

"I'm surprised you were able to keep two sour lemon pieces in your mouth. That took most of us out," Indigo said. 

"Thanks, well, I wanted to win. I wasn't going to let a soured lemon-flavored candy stop me. Too bad that the sour apple-flavored is the reason why I couldn't keep going."

"You did well on your first try," Sunny said. 

"Hey, Sour Sweet," Spike asks. "What flavor is this cake?"

"You'll see," Sour said. 

Spike and the rest took a bite out of the cake. Their eyes widen in shock and satisfying faces. 

"Hehe, I see you like the cotton candy cinnamon flavored cake," Sour said. "It's the Pudding family new recipe. We're the firsts to taste it."

"Cool! This cake is better than the sapphire gem cupcake Mr. and Mrs. Cake baked."

"Ah, the Cake family. The Pudding Family arch-rival," Sour said. 

"Really?" Spike questions. 

"Yea, the two were at each other for years. I think Mr. Pudding has the edge over Mr. Cake."

"Wow, they should have a bake-off to see which family has the better tasting desserts."

"Hmm, there is a bake-off challenge taking place at the Crystal Empire. I'm pretty sure both families can make an appearance to settle the score once and for all," Sour said. 

"When is the bake-off challenge, Sour?"

"In two months. Why you ask, Spike?"

"I want to see if we can all go."

"We can go. Will anypony be busy on November 3rd?"

"Nope, I have that day off from work," Sunny said. 

"I can close the library on the 3rd," Sugarcoat said. 

"I can take a break day from training," Indigo said. 

"I'll go. Lemon picking can be done swift and quick on a different day," Lemon said. 

"I'll already be there since I'll be helping the Pudding Family bake," Sour stated. 

"Then it's settled. We have an official hang out day," Spike said. "So, Sunny. What's next after we have cake?"

"Well, I know it's still a game night, I think from what has happened earlier, we should go outside and star-gaze. Relax and enjoy ourselves. We can have an official game night another day."

"You know what?" Spike said. "That sounds like an awesome idea."

After everyone eats their slice of cake, they all head outside to the lemon tree orchard. Spike and Lemon brought some snacks, blankets, and a telescope to watch the stars. Luna's night under the lemon tree orchard is beautiful. They can see all the stars and constellations. Spike sits up and looks at the night sky. He couldn't help but shed a tear, the nightmare of his is over, the loneliness is gone, surrounded by friends is one thing he'll cherish the most. Lemon Zest and the rest sit next to Spike. 

"Thank you," Spike said. 

The girls' smile and Sugarcoat start naming constellations left and right. Spike then sees a shooting star and makes a wish. 

"I wish to always be with my new friends together as a family for the rest of my life."

It is now 11:00 at night. The train pulls in Ponyville. Twilight and her friends get off the train. Twilight takes the walk of shame back to the Golden Oak Library. Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack joins Twilight in the walk of shame. Twilight enters the Library to see not only an unhappy Princess Celestia, but she also sees Princess Luna and Shining Armor.

"Princess Twilight Sparkle and Wielders of the Elements," Princess Celestia said in her Royal Voice.

Twilight and her friends sit in front of them with their heads hung down. 

"Princess Twilight Sparkle, I am distraught at you and your friends. I observed from a distance, hoping that you of all ponies would cope and try to reason fairly on Spike. Instead, you allowed your emotions to get the better of you, Twilight. You used my authority as a command and threatened to erase Spike's mind. I allowed you to have a second chance but not like that. Your actions reflect on your personality as a Princess, Twilight."

"I'm...sorry...Princess Celestia. I...don't know what came over me. I want Spike to come home. I want to make it up to him after all I've done," Twilight said as she's broken. 

"You're desire has blinded you from your actions, Twilight. As a future ruler of Equestria, those kinds of desires has to be pushed aside to make the right decision," Princess Celestia said calmly.

"Twily, until further notice, you cannot come to the Crystal Empire when Spike's presence is known. Princess Celestia's orders. That goes to the rest of you. "

"Any other punishments, Princess Celestia?" Twilight states.

"Thou shall suffer a week of nightmares that Spike endured in his lifespan," Princess Luna said.  

"Also, you all are going to write apology letters to Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare from the attack you all attempted earlier tonight."

"Celestia, Indigo Zap broke my wing! She needs to give me an apology!" Rainbow stated angrily. 

"Denied Rainbow Dash!" Celestia shouted. 

Rainbow Dash gulps and swallows her pride. She backed away slowly.

"In Indigo's standpoint, she ought to see you as a lawbreaker for trespassing."	

"Understood..." Rainbow said quietly in defeat.		

"I'm going back home to the Crystal Empire," Shining said as he walks past Twilight. "Twily, I love you. Please, pull yourself together and try not to make any more regretful decisions. Also, I'm taking Spike's Friend so Cadance and I can comfort Spike when he visits the Crystal Empire," Shining said. 

"No! Don't let Cadance read the book! Please don't let her read it," Twilight said. Begging Shining Armor and clinging onto his hind leg.

"Twily, I have to go."

"Please please please please, please! Don't let Cadance read it! She'll never forgive me! She'll never love me as a sister-in-law!" Twilight continues to beg as Shining walks. He uses his magic to release Twilight's grip on him. Shining Armor trots towards the train station as Twilight starts to cry.

"Princess Twilight Sparkle, your actions have consequences. You have to take responsibility for your actions. As for the rest of you, any attempts of trying to meet with Spike without his approval will result in banishment from Equestrian Lands. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, Princess," The girls said in unison. 

"Thou the rest shall endure a week's nightmare of Spike's suffering during his lifespan. Thou ought to witness Spike's darkest moments in your dreams. I shall not intervene no matter the heart struck the dream shall be. Thou should see what it's like to be neglected and left behind," Princess Luna said. "This is my punishment to all of you for discriminating against a dragon. A baby dragon."

"Yes, Princess Luna," The girls said in unison. 

"Princess Twilight Sparkle, I will not be staying here. I'm going back to Canterlot to resume my duties. You're going to learn how to use your magic to send me letters from now on."

"Yes, Princess Celestia."

"Farwell," 

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna fly back to Canterlot. The girls are now afraid of going to sleep. Pinkie vows to try her best to stay up all week long to avoid the nightmares. Twilight in her broken state accepts her demise and slowly walks up the stairs to her room. She gets in bed and clutches onto a picture of her and Spike.  Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy leaves the library. They head home except for Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash goes with Fluttershy back to her cottage until her broken wing heals.

It's now midnight at the lemon tree orchard. The girls decide to sleepover at Lemon's house. They packed up everything Lemon and Spike brought out and head back to the house. The girls and Spike head up the stairs to the bedrooms. Spike gets in bed and looks out the window.

"I'm home. I'm happy. Nothing can ever change that," Spike said as he drifts to sleep.
> Arise in New Beginnings
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's now 9:00 in the morning. Spike wakes up looking for Twilight in the bedroom then he realizes that Twilight isn't here. Realizing that he is at Lemon's house in Pony Central. One thing that Spike needs time to adjust is, waking up with no chores or given long lists by Twilight Sparkle. His routine now diminished, Spike can look forward to better things. Spike gets out of bed and stretches a little then he walks down the stairs to the kitchen. He sees Lemon Zest making lemon pancakes. Also, Sunny Flare and Sugarcoat are sitting at the table.  

"Morning, everypony," Spike said. 

"Morning, Spike," Lemon, Sugarcoat, and Sunny said. 

"Where's Sour Sweet and Indigo Zap?"

"Sour is needed back at Sugary Skies Bakery. Indigo Zap left an hour ago to train at Foal Mountain," Sunny said. 

"Yea, however, they told us to say good morning to you," Sugarcoat said. 

"So, after breakfast, what do you two have planned?" Spike asks. 

"Well, I have to return to the library. Then later today, I have ballet practice," Sugarcoat said. 

"I'm managing the weather team in Pony Central. Later in the afternoon, my team and I are needed to bring in the heavy rain," Sunny said. 

"As for I Spike, I have a whole lot of lemons to pick up in the Lemon Tree Orchard. You are more than welcome to come by and keep me company," Lemon said. 

"Oh, is there anything else I should do?" Spike asks. 

"Nope. All I want is your company. We can talk, share stories, and have a little picnic." 

"Really?"

"Of course," Lemon smiles. "I don't want to carry the burden of using you like Twilight and her friends done. I'll ask for help when it's needed. When I start lemon picking, all you have to do is talk to me and watch on how I get things done."

"Alright, Lemon,"

Lemon finished making lemon pancakes and gives everyone three stacks with maple syrup. She sits next to Spike and starts eating. Spike decides to pour a glass of lemon juice for everyone. The girls smile and pat Spike's head for his generosity. After eating, Sunny fly to Pony Central's Weather Command Station and Sugarcoat trots to the library. Lemon and Spike clean the dishes together, clean the kitchen together, packed up a few snacks and drinks. 

"I'll carry the picnic basket," Spike said.

"You sure, Spike?"

"Yes. It's the least I can do."

"Alright then, let's get moving."

Lemon Zest and Spike walk towards the orchard. Spike places the basket near a lemon tree that doesn't have baskets. 

"So, Lemon Zest? How do you pick lemons from the trees? You buck the trees for lemons to fall?"

"No cause trees have feelings, like you and me. I have other methods of picking down the lemons. Follow me," Lemon said. 

Lemon walks towards the stage that is set up in front of the orchard. Spike follows Lemon onto the stage. Lemon turns the speakers around. The speakers are now facing all of the trees then Lemon grabs her guitar and tunes it to the speaker. 

"This is the part you want to cover your ears, Spike," 

Spike wasted no time to cover his ears. Lemon tests the sound system a little to see the sound frequency. After a few moments of silence, Lemon Zest plays her guitar. The sound frequency is so loud that all of the lemons in the orchard fall into the baskets. She stops playing her guitar. 

"And done," Lemon places her guitar down. "So, like my method for picking lemons?"	

Spike gaze from all the lemons falling. Never in his life, he'd ever seen anything like that. 

"Now, all I gotta do is pick up the baskets." 	

Spike is frozen. He's shocked and amazed by what he just witnessed.  Lemon couldn't help but laugh at his reaction. 

"Alright, Spike. It's time for me to pick up the baskets."

"Want my help?" 

"No need. I got this," Lemon trots to the garage and walks out with a wagon. Spike decides to walk with Lemon as she gathers the baskets around the orchard. 

"So, you do this every day by yourself?"	

"Not really. Sunny Flare and Indigo Zap come to help me now and then. I'm used to working alone and listen to my music. Now that I'll be having you from time to time, I won't be alone. Plus, you won't be alone either. It's a win-win scenario."

"Sure is. Do you have family here?"

"My family left Pony Central. I haven't heard from them in years. I took over the Lemon Tree business the moment they decide to have musical careers."

"You miss them?"

"Not really. My friends are my family, Spike. You are part of that family as well."

"Thanks. Last night when I told Twilight about you and the girls, I meant it. You and they are my friends. My family. I'll do everything to make sure it stays that way." 

"So will us, Spike. We care about you. Considering it's only been a day since we met. I've never seen a baby dragon or any creature endure that kind of suffering and still stay strong. Most times, other creatures end it all before finding purpose in life. I'm glad you were strong enough to fight for your life. Live the way you should. Be around those who truly care about your well-being."

"Thanks, Lemon Zest."

"You're welcome."

The two walk back to the house. Lemon has a wagon full of lemons that she now needs to organize. From the sour to the sweet to the rotten. 

"Alright, Spike. Organizing these lemons should take an hour."

"What can I do to help?"

"Enjoy yourself. I can handle things here, Spike. How bout you take 20 bits from my drawer and go on a little shopping spree."

"Really?" Spike said excitedly. 

"Sure, I'll meet you by Sugary Skies Bakery. It's one of my many locations to sell sour lemons."

"Alright, Lemon. I'll see you there."

Spike goes in the house, he found 20 bits from Lemon's drawer and leaves the house. He walks the long path to the gaming store he went to yesterday. On the way there, he sees several ponies chatting and having a good time. It reminds him of Ponyville a bit. Spike walks in the gaming store and looks around. He wants to see if there is a new edition of the Power Ponies comic. The gaming store does not sell comic books. Spike leaves the gaming store to explore other stores in Pony Central. He finds a comic book store then enter. 

"Ah, a new customer. Welcome to Comic Station," Controller said. "Can I get you anything?"

"Yea, do you have Power Ponies comic books?"

"We sure do. And when you buy the newest edition of the Power Ponies, you get a free Power Pony Saddle Rager Poster."

"Cool! How much?"

"10 bits. 50% off for new customers living in Pony Central."

Spike pays Controller the 10 bits. Controller gives Spike the comic and poster. 

"You have a nice day, and welcome to Pony Central."

"Thanks, Controller."

Spike leaves the comic book store. He decides to visit Sugarcoat since the Pine Tree Library is around the corner. Spike walks around the corner and knocks on the door. He hears hoofsteps coming closer. 

"Sorry, the library is...Hi, Spike."

"Hi, Sugarcoat. Am I interrupting you?"

"No, no. Please come in."

Spike enters the library. He sees Sugarcoat wearing her ballet outfit.

"So, what can I help you with?"

"I wanted to visit you. See how you are doing?"

"I'm doing great, Spike. How bout you?"

"I'm doing well. I just bought a new Power Pony comic with a free poster."

"Cool."

"So, how often you practice ballet?"

"Every other day. It helps me relax and be a better dancer. My life isn't all about books and studying. I balance my studies with my hobbies well. Wanna see me practice?"

"Sure."		

Sugarcoat practice her ballet skillset. Twirling, posture, and balancing on one hoof as she dances. Sugarcoat continues to dance precisely and elegantly.  After ten minutes of dancing, Spike claps in amazement. 

"Wow, Sugarcoat. You dance like a professional."

"Thank you, Spike."

"You're welcome."

"So, how's your day, Spike?"

"It's pretty good. I saw how Lemon picks her lemons, helped her a bit, got to buy something good for me, and I got to see you dance elegantly. My day is enjoyable."

"Good, Spike," Sugarcoat pats him. 

"Well, I better get going. I'm meeting Lemon at Sugary Skies Bakery."

"Alright then, take care, Spike."

"You too, see you next time, Sugarcoat."

Spike leaves the library and walks down to Sugary Skies Bakery. Lemon Zest trots towards Sugary Skies Bakery. 

"Hey, Spike. Had a good shopping spree?"

"I did. Here's your change," Spike gives Lemon the 10 bits back. 

"Spike, you should keep them."

"No, no. I got what I wanted."

"Alright, then," Lemon said as she enters Sugary Skies Bakery. She and Mrs. Pudding have a little arrangement. Half sour and sweet lemons for 70 bits. Lemon Zest thanks Mrs. Pudding for her time and leaves the bakery.

"So, how many lemons you've sold?"

"70 lemons. Half sweet and half sour."

"Nice. Where to?"

"The Weather Command Station."

"Nice. Hopefully, we can see Sunny Flare."

"We'll see, Spike."

Lemon and Spike trot their way to Pony Central's Weather Command Station. 

"How many lemons do they buy?"	

"Nearly half the wagon at times, Spike. This week is an annual celebration of it's founding."

"Wow, so I'm guessing you'll be having like a thousand bits?"

"More like 500 bits. I still have to take the rest of the lemons to a supermarket."

"Right."

Lemon and Spike walk in Pony Central's Weather Command Station. They are both greeted by Star Bolt, a red pegasus with a black mane, and a scar on his left eye.

"Good morning, Lemon Zest," He observes Spike. "Seems, we have a new resident in Pony Central. What is your name, son?"

"I'm Spike. Spike the Dragon, sir."

"Nice to meet you. I reckon you with Lemon Zest on lemon duty?"

"Yes, sir," Spike salutes. 

"I hope when you get your wings, you'll be able to join our weather team or our defense team in Pony Central."

"There's a defense team in Pony Central?"

"Yes. Mostly guarded by the elite fliers known as the Shadowbolts."

"Has a dragon ever volunteered or wanted to be a Shadowbolt?"

"No. Dragons often isolate themselves from pony kind. You can be the first to join them if you want to."

"I'll look into that when I'm older."

"Good. Also, welcome to Pony Central."

"Thank you," Spike smiles.

"You're welcome. Lemon Zest, how many lemons you carried today?"

"I have a little over a thousand in the wagon. How many you need?"

"According to the chef, she needs 400 lemons."

"Sour? Sweet? Or both?"

"Half and half."

"Coming up, Star."

Lemon trots to her wagon. Spike decides to help Lemon bring in the baskets to Star Bolt. After a half-hour, Spike and Lemon Zest brought in exactly 20 baskets of lemons.  

"There you go, Star Bolt. Enjoy the freshly grown lemons."

"We will, here's your pay," Star Bolt gives Lemon Zest 400 bits in a bag.

"So, after the supermarket, where to next?"

"Home. After this, we go home, Spike."

"Cool. It gives me time to hang up the poster in the room you gave me. Then I can read my comic."

Lemon Zest and Spike trot to the supermarket. Outside, the manager is waiting for Lemon Zest. She hands him 530 lemons that are left. In return, she receives 530 bits. 

"Huh, you were right about getting a thousand bits. My math was way off," Lemon chuckles.

"Still, it's a lot of money in one day."

"Here, Spike," Lemon gives Spike 200 bits in a bag. Spike's eyes widen. 

"I can't take this..."

"Sure, you can. You did help me. I want you to have it. You can buy what you want whenever you're with somepony else for the week."	

"Thank you, Lemon Zest. Mighty generous of you to give me this much."

"You're welcome, Spike. For now on, when you and I work, I'll give you a good portion of the profit."

Spike smiles, tears of happiness roll out of his eyes. He hugs Lemon Zest for her kind gesture. Lemon returns the hug then puts Spike in the wagon. 

"Time to head home, Spike."

Lemon trots her way back to the house. Spike starts reading his comic book. He decides to read out loud so Lemon can hear all the action. After a while, Lemon puts the wagon away. Spike and Lemon head over to the lemon tree that didn't have lemons to have their picnic. They are now seeing Sunny Flare's team bringing the clouds to Pony Central. Indigo Zap helps Sunny's team place the clouds around town. 

"Well, Spike. Time to head inside. We wouldn't want to get rained on?"

"Nope. I don't want to get sick."

Lemon and Spike head back to the house. It starts to pour heavy rain. Sunny Flare and Indigo zap knock on Lemon's door. Lemon opens the door and allows Sunny and Indigo to come in. 

"Thanks for letting us, in," Sunny said as she pants. 

"You're welcome," Lemon said. 

"So, sales were good, Lemon?" Indigo asks.

"Yea, everything worked out fine."

"Good," Indigo said. "This morning's training did a number on me."

Spike goes upstairs to put his poster on the wall in his room. "Perfect," Spike places his comic on top of the drawer and heads back downstairs to be with his friends.

It is now noon in Ponyville. Twilight Sparkle didn't dare to sleep after Luna gave out nightmare punishments. She doesn't want to experience what Spike went through. She already suffered enough. Twilight is still clutching onto the picture of Spike and her. Imagining she's holding onto her baby dragon. She ponders what to do next. How to get Spike back? Endless thoughts and ideas flood her mind in the room. Applejack is working in the apple tree orchard. She refuses to sleep, not wanting to endure Luna's nightmare punishment. Pinkie Pie is drinking sugar to keep herself awake, avoiding sleep for the week as possible. Rarity forces herself to stay awake by working a lot in the boutique. Rainbow Dash flies all around Ponyville to keep herself awake. Flying through clouds as the water inside keeps her awake and wet. Fluttershy couldn't bring herself to slumber. She is too terrified to sleep. She drinks tea to keep her awake. 

Later in the day, everypony meets up at Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie Pie, in her sugar rush state, is super hyperactive. Bouncing all over the place as the girls stare.

"I believe by avoiding sleep this week we don't endure Luna's nightmare punishment!" Pinkie said hyperactively.

"Yea, just six more days to go," Rainbow yawns a bit.

"I'm sorry, girls. It's my fault. It's my fault that I put you all in this situation," Twilight said sadly with her head hung low.

"It's not your fault, sugarcube, it's all of our faults," Applejack stated.

"We used and unfortunately abused, Spike. We made mistakes, Twilight. It's up to us to learn from them," Rarity said.

"Or correct them!" Twilight stated her eye twitching. 

"What do ya mean, Twilight?" Applejack asks nervously. 

"I mean, sometime later, we find a spell to reverse what has happened and turn things back to the way they were. Bringing Spike back to us and making things right with him," Twilight said as she rubs her hooves together. 

"Uh, Twilight. I think you should let Spike go. It's unhealthy to cling on to him," Applejack stated. 

"Yea, can't have you go insane since he resides in Pony Central," Rainbow stated. 

"Also, Twilight, Spike has new friends and a new family. He doesn't need us. We didn't need much of him," Fluttershy said.

"Yea, unless it was work for him to do while we go out or work. We caused Spike to go away, darling. We should accept it as is," Rarity said. 

"You're all a bunch of..,QUITTERS!" Twilight shouts angrily. 

"Twilight, calm down," Applejack said sincerely.

"If you won't help me! Then so be it! I'll work alone!" Twilight shouted as she stomps her way back home.  

"Let Twilight cool off for a while," Rainbow said.

"Agreed," Everypony in unison said. 

It's not 3:00 in the afternoon in Pony Central. Spike, Lemon Zest, Sunny Flare, and Indigo Zap is playing Parcheesi in the living room. It's now Spike's turn to roll the dice.

"My turn," Spike rolls the dice. He gets an 8. "Nice, I'm two spaces away from getting in front of Indigo."

"You ain't passing me, boy. My turn!" Indigo rolls the dice and gets a 3. "No!" 

"Well, it's my turn to roll the dice," Sunny said. She rolls the dice and gets an 11. "Yes! Exactly what I needed."

Spike, Indigo, and Lemon groans as Sunny win a second time. 

"Darn, you Sunny for winning twice in a row," Indigo stated. 

"Not my fault that the dice rollings were on my side."	

"I bet you used your wings to manipulate the dice roll circulation."

"Manipulate? Me?" Sunny said as she chuckles.

"Wow," Spike said. "The storm is getting heavier by the hour." 

"Well, gotta make up the loss of time with rainwater. Lemon's trees and other farms need water," Sunny said. 

"So, how long will it last?"

"Until tomorrow morning."

"So, now what?" Indigo said.

"Storytime?" Spike asks.

"Hmm, nice idea. Anypony else?" Indigo asks.  Sunny Flare and Lemon Zest have no ideas for the time being. "Well, alright then, let's start sharing stories. Spike, since it's your idea, how bout you start."

"Very well. Over a few months ago, I saved the Crystal Empire from King Sombra's return."

"No way," Indigo said. "You're making that up."

"It's true. There's a crystal statue of me holding the Crystal Heart."

"When we go to our hangout on November 3rd, you are showing us that statue."

"Will do. Also, ponies at the Crystal Empire call me, Spike the Brave and Glorious!"

"Okay, now I think you're exaggerating," Indigo said. 

"Yea, I mean. You a savior of the Crystal Empire? I won't believe until I see it, Spike," Sunny said. 

"Then get ready to be amazed when you find out for yourselves."

"We will, Spike," Lemon said. 

Spike continues to tell his tale about the time he saved the Crystal Empire. Sunny Flare, Indigo Zap, and Lemon Zest were amazed a little from Spike's experience. Indigo still think it's a make-believe story, however, considering what has happened last night, Indigo will believe anything Spike says. 

"Alright, Brave and Glorious Spike, I have to meet up with some recruits at the Crystal Empire, tomorrow. Want to come with me?" Sunny said. 

"Sure, what kind of recruits are we talking about?"

"Some for weather team and some that are qualifying to become Shadowbolt material."

"So, is Pony Central affiliated with the Crystal Empire?"

"Yes. Over a thousand years ago, Pony Central and the Crystal Empire were on mutual grounds helping each other. Since their disappearance, thanks to King Sombra, Pony Central has been on our own for a long time. Now, it's time to rebuild and reconnect for the loss of time," Sunny said. 

"You'll be the first to witness my true tale. Then everypony else here in Pony Central will believe me."

"Any other adventures you experienced, Spike?" Lemon asks. 

"Yes, however, there were more so for Twilight and her friends. I wasn't involved as much," Spike said. "There is one thing I can tell you, though. I am friends with a Draqonecuus."

"What?!" Indigo shouted. "No way! No way you're friends with the Lord of Chaos, Discord."

"Well, the baby dragon is right," Discord said as he laughs. Sunny, Indigo, and Lemon hug each other. They know Discord's capabilities and not want to displease him. Discord walks out of the mouse hole and grows in size. "Ah, much better. That mouse hole is quite damped if you know what I mean."

"Hey, Discord. What's up?"

"Just thought I check in on my friend once in a while. How are you feeling overall?" Discord said as he floats around the room while eating a bowl of nails.

"I'm alright. I'm with my new friends, Sunny Flare, Indigo Zap, and Lemon Zest," Spike said pointing to the trio that is hugging each other fearfully.

"Ah, are they treating you better than Twilight and her friends?"

"Yes, they are, Discord."		

"Good. Just remember that I too am your friend."

"I will, Discord."

"Good. Also, I sensed a dark presence lurking, so be aware of your surroundings. 

"A dark presence?"

"Yea, something is stirring. Something is bound to happen sooner than later, Spike."

"Alright then, thanks for the warning."

"You're welcome. I'll be on my way," Discord said as he borrows an umbrella and floats away in the storm.

"Okay, you three. There is nothing to be scared of," Spike said. 

Sunny Flare, Indigo Zap, and Lemon Zest stop hugging each other. They thought for sure that Discord would use his chaotic power on them.

"Discord is my friend. He won't cause you or the others any trouble," Spike said. 

"Thank goodness," Sunny said. "I was afraid of back there."

"Same," Lemon and Indigo said. 

"So, what now?" Spike asks. 

"I'm going to take a nap," Indigo said. 

"I'm going to meditate on using my wing power," Sunny said. 

"I'm going to catch on my reading for a while, Spike," Lemon said. 

"Alright, I'll be playing with my Power Pony action figures in my room."

"Dinner will be ready by 7:00," Lemon said. 

"Sounds good to me," Indigo, Sunny, and Spike said.  

It's now 5:30 in the afternoon in Ponyville. Twilight is searching for different time spells in the Castle of the Two Sisters. She's unable to find what she's looking for now. "Soon, I'll find the right book! I'll figure out how to reverse everything that's every happen!" Twilight laughs sinisterly and insanely.
> Later in the Evening
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's now 6:30 in the afternoon. Twilight Sparkle has searched every room, hoping to find a hidden book somewhere in the Castle of the Two Sisters. She insanely laughs maniacally in her quest to restore what she lost; Spike. Spike is Twilight's number one assistant and friend. She raised him when he hatched, fed him, cared for him, and loved him. She feels betrayed by her friends for giving up on redeeming themselves with Spike. Also, Twilight feels that Princess Celestia and Luna have given her unfair punishments. She can't sleep due to nightmare punishment and being unable to visit or write to Spike. Twilight accidentally falls into a hidden room in the castle. She looks to see where she land. Twilight uses her magic to illuminate the room. Twilight now sees she stumbled upon a hidden library. 

"Yes!" Twilight shouts. "Now, let's start searching for the right book!"	

Twilight Sparkle, now rejuvenated, can commence her research for finding the right spell to fix all of her problems. 

It's now 7:00 at night. Indigo Zap has finished taking her nap, Sunny Flare is done meditating, and Spike stops playing with his Power Pony action figures. Lemon Zest is now calling for her friends to come for dinner. Spike, Sunny Flare, and Indigo Zap heads to the kitchen and sits near the table. Lemon Zest carries a big bowl of haystack fries, some gems for Spike to eat, and a lemon cherry crunch cake. Lemon then sits next to Spike and Sunny.

"Eat up everypony and dragon," Lemon said. 

Spike passes the plates to everypony. Spike then takes a handful of haystack fries to go along with his gems as he starts chowing down. Lemon, Sunny, and Indigo take turns placing haystack fries onto their plate. Then they start eating. 

"Wow, Lemon. These haystack fries are delicious," Spike said. 

"Thanks, Spike."

"You're welcome."

"So, Indigo? How was your training this morning?" Lemon asks.

"It went well. Foal Mountain has treated me well during my training up there. Intense flying, different twist, and turns in my flight pattern, doing push-ups with my wings, lifting heavy objects attached with my teeth, lifting weights with my hooves; I'm starting to get stronger by the day."

"Cool," Lemon said. 

"Hey, Indigo? How often you train?" Spike asks. 

"Every other day. Need a rest after a day of hard work. Gotta pace myself properly if I ever want to join the Shadowbolts."

"If I were to get my wings when I'm older, would you or the Shadowbolts consider me as a contender to join them?"

"You want to be a Shadowbolt, Spike?" Indigo said in confusion.

"Well, earlier today while helping Lemon delivery lemons, we stopped by at the Weather Command Station, Star Bolt told me when I grow my wings, I can join the weather team or defense team,"

"Ah, Star Bolt. If he sees potential in you, Spike. I would recommend it if you are interested."

"Really?"	

"Of course, Star Bolt is a Shadowbolt Legend. The Shadowbolts, Spike, are better elite fliers than the Wonderbolts. Shadowbolts has more pride, heart, bravery, respect, and discipline than any other Wonderbolt. Shadowbolts only allow those who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice, have dedication to what you believe in, work hard on improving your; body, soul, and mind."

"Wow," Spike said. 

"However, being a Shadowbolt is not for everyone. It takes many years and training to have the right mindset. Right now, I'm still in the beginning stage of my training. I'm not ready yet. I will be in a few more years."

"Hmm, I'll think about becoming one if or when I'm older or see how things pan out with the weather team or do something else with my life. Right now, all I want is to spend my time and life with my friends and family I do have."

Indigo, Sunny, and Lemon smile. Lemon cuts the first piece of the lemon cherry crunch cake and gives it to Spike, first. Then she gives the next slice to Sunny then Indigo and finally herself. Spike eats the cake. His taste buds go berserk as he eats the cake.

"This is delicious, Lemon! Who taught you how to bake so well?"

"Sour Sweet when she and I were younger, Spike."

"Cool," Spike said as he bites a gem.

After Spike and his friends finished eating, they go back to the living room. Indigo, Sunny, Lemon, and Spike decide to play Parcheesi again. As they play Parcheesi, Lemon, Indigo, and Sunny shared some stories with Spike. Lemon mentions her life living in Pony Central with her family before they left, Indigo mentions more about the Shadowbolts and her dreams of becoming an official member and Sunny tells her tale about her family being separated by an uncontrollable storm, which is why she wanted to be part of the weather team in Pony Central. Sunny also mentions that she never saw her family since the storm. She figured that their lives have ended. Spike couldn't help but share a few tears, he walks up to Sunny and hugs her. Sunny hugs back and smile. Spike couldn't help but stare at the beauty of Sunny Flare. Her smile, her elegance made him blush a little. Sunny couldn't help but chuckle a bit. Then the two go back to playing the game. 

Another hour goes by in the Castle of the Two Sisters. It's now 8:30 at night, Twilight Sparkle, found the book she's been looking for; it contains a passageway to redemption. The book is known as "D.W.A.D." Its location for Twilight to perform her ritual is in Manehattan. She gathers her belongings and goes to the train station. She's now waiting for the next train to take her to Manehattan.
> Ragna Rock
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight Sparkle boards the train. It'll take two hours for the train to reach its destination. Twilight starts jotting down ideas for using the book of D.W.A.D. She wonders why the location she's going to is in Manehattan, of all places. She'll find out when she gets there. Two hours later, Twilight arrives in Manehattan. She gets off the train and calls for a taxi. As she gets on, the taxi pony asks where's she going? Twilight's response was cryptic. The taxi pony knew where Twilight wanted to go. He gets the same location every time late at night.  The taxi pony drives Twilight Sparkle to a concealed night club known as the Ragna Rock. Twilight pays the taxi pony a bit more to keep him quiet and to make sure no pony has followed her. Twilight enters Ragna Rock and feels a difference in magic power. Twilight then sees the clubs rules, 




Rule 1: No pony will ever know any secrets, deals, and commitments inside of Ragna Rock. 

Rule 2: Ragna Rock uses dark and forbidden magic. Anything you see, you shall not be revealed to the public. 

Rule 3: Ragna Rock is not responsible for any transaction for your mistakes. 

Rule 4: Violate any rulings that will automatically ban you from entering Ragna Rock. 

Rule 5: There are no redos. We only move forward, never back. 

Rule 6: Enjoy your stay.




Twilight, after reading the rules thoroughly, proceeds to the upper floors of Ragna Rock. According to the book of D.W.A.D.; there is a door that opens a realm of time and space. It'll lead where you need to be. The room is only accessible by carrying the book of D.W.A.D. On the way to the upper floors, Twilight witnesses many rituals, she can hear some screams of agony from the sacrifices ponies make to gain what their hearts desire. Twilight ignores everything in Ragna Rock as she proceeds to the upper floors. As she goes up a long flight of stairs, the room changes from red curtains to red wooden walls, they are signs of her reaching the door. When she makes it, there is a cryptic chaotic symbol. Twilight Sparkle opens the door and sees the same symbol drawn on the floor. There is also a pentagram drawn on the floor as a gateway to where she needs to go. Twilight Sparkle, now having second thoughts, is thinking of her decisions. As tired as she is from staying up nearly two days now, all she wanted is Spike to come back home and promise him that things will be better under her watch. After a while of collecting her thoughts, Twilight places the book of D.W.A.D on the pentagram which opens a portal to the next room, 

"There is no turning back now," Twilight said. She picks up the book of D.W.A.D. and enters the portal. 

Twilight sees the realm the portal has sent her to. It's mesmerizing, to say the least. Everything around her is chaotic. Twilight opens the book of D.W.A.D. then it guides her to where she needs to be. Twilight flies down the path at top speed. Twilight sees a door and enters. Inside the room, there is a table, a bell, and two chairs. Twilight Sparkle sits in a chair and rings the bell. Now she waits for an answer.

Discord is taking a bath in his home. He is bathing in gravy while using potatoes as soap. He gets a sharp tingle in his body. Something he hasn't felt over a thousand years. 

"Hmm, that's odd. I haven't felt that feeling since..." Discord realizes what's happening. Bound by his chaotic nature and the ruling of his species, he has no choice but to answer that sharp tingling feeling. He sighs heavily and walks down to the attic of his house. It's the one area he doesn't like revisiting. It brings back horrid memories now that he's reformed. Discord stops, he takes a deep breath and enters the room. As he enters the room, Discord sees Twilight sitting on the chair, waiting impatiently.	

"Twilight Sparkle, what an unfortunate surprise."	

"Discord, well, this is unexpected, and yet, why should things be unexpected with you," Twilight said unamused. 

"Twilight, what is it you seek? What do you want?" Discord said out of frustration. 

"Well, according to the book of D.W.A.D., once I come into your presence, you are bound to agree with me no matter the circumcision."

Discord gritted his teeth, he slams his claw down in anger, then stares at Twilight.

"You are walking down a path of no tomorrow, Twilight Sparkle! Are you sure you want to make this soul-binding agreement?!" Discord said furiously.

"Why do you think I'm here then?!" Twilight shouted. "The book of D.W.A.D. allows me to make any agreement that I desire. What I desire is Spike, and I know exactly how things are going to pan out," Twilight said insanely. 

Due to Discord's species millenniums ago, they are bound to make any agreement based on their chaotic nature and status quo. 

"My request will bring chaos to all except for me." 

"Twilight, you are losing yourself to insanity. As your friend, I would recommend backing away while you still can," Discord said sincerely. 

"I'm not backing away, I want the approval of my deal, now!" Twilight shouts angrily. 

Discord sighs in defeat and reluctantly listens to Twilight. He can see Twilight changing for the worse just by staring into her eyes. She's going to be worse than Nightmare Moon and possibly be worse than Queen Chrysalis. Discord sits on the chair, now staring at Twilight Sparkle. 

"Tell me what's your plan, Twilight," Discord said sadly and calmly. 

"Princess Luna has given my friends and me, a nightmare punishment. I want you to manipulate the mind of Princess Luna when my friends do fall asleep. From there, Princess Luna will locate Spike and show him the nightmares my friends and I will be having. The nightmares will also be manipulated to show that Spike's calling in life is to be with me in Ponyville. Essentially, turning things back to normal. When Spike gives up and comes back home, I want you to erase everyone's memory except mine, of course, I need to make sure that Spike is no longer abused, used, mocked, and degraded from other ponies again. Before Spike wakes up, I want you to teleport him to our bedroom. That way, it'll never seem like he ran away from home. In return when I'm the next ruler of Equestria, I'll give you land to spread all the chaos you want undisturbed, of course," Twilight said, maniacally. 

Discord sighs heavily once more. Twilight's scheme is incredibly brilliant. No matter how much Discord wants to disobey, bound by his nature from the D.W.A.D., he has no choice. Discord conjures a soul-binding contract. He writes everything needed for Twilight to read. 

"Now, Twilight. Read carefully and consider your choices wisely. I would back away if I were you. Once you sign on the dotted line, you are responsible for anything that happens. I, would not be blamed for, it says so in the book of D.W.A.D." 

"I'm fully aware of it. After today, things will go back to normal, Princess Celestia and Luna, will not be displeased with my friends and me. Shining Armor and Cadance will forget the monsters my friends and I were towards Spike. Spike will be happy with me back home. The next day will turn out as things never happened."

"Just read," Discord said disgustedly.

Twilight reads the soul-binding agreement thoroughly. She scans every word in the contract. Twilight signs the soul-binding contract and gives it to Discord. Discord takes it and burns it as a sign of agreement. Discord decides to unfriend Twilight for the decision she made in front of him. He already sees things going downhill. It's only a matter of time. 

"Now, get to work, Discord," Twilight said sternly. 

"Yes, your highness," Discord said as he takes the book of D.W.A.D. 

Twilight returns to Ragna Rock. She smiles as she leaves Ragna Rock. Discord feels that he'll never forgive himself for the actions he'll be causing later today. He enters his room and tosses the book on his bed. 

"Stupid book of D.W.A.D.! This is your fault! Why or why did my family thought it'll be a great idea of writing a book that'll allow anypony to Make a Deal With A Discorded?!" Discord shouts angrily. "First Celestia when she was younger and now, Twilight Sparkle? I have to dispose of the book of D.W.A.D. I've changed and this book has no value to me anymore."

Discord throws the book into oblivion. Discord is now remembering Spike, how happy he is to be with new friends and family. Discord will not forgive himself now that he's going to take away Spike's happiness. 

"Spike, forgive me," Discord said as he snaps his claw. Discord now controls Princess Luna's mind. Discord telepathically sends Luna instructions. She knows what to do next when she enters the realm of dreams. Discord sits down and looks at the window. He's going to watch everything that unfolds. 

Twilight Sparkle is on her way back home. She's at the train station waiting for the next train back to Ponyville. She's going to take a nap and prepare for the next day in Ponyville.
> Nightmarish Talk
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's now 11:30 at night. Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack fell asleep due to exhaustion. They decided to embrace Luna's nightmare punishment. Twilight Sparkle is on the train heading back to Ponyville; she too is asleep. In Pony Central, Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, and Sunny Flare decided to give Spike a goodnight hug then a goodnight kiss on his cheek. Spike goes to his bed and drifts to sleep. In a few moments, Princess Luna is getting ready for her nightmare patrol. Now with instructions courtesy from Discord, it's Celestia's instructions for Luna to follow through. Princess Luna looks at her night sky then enters the realm of dreams. She's on her way to locate Spike to have a long discussion. 

Spike is having a fun time in his dream. He's with Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare. They are going to the Crystal Empire for the upcoming Equestrian Games. Princess Luna enters Spike's dream. In a few moments, Luna finds Spike and approaches him. 

"Hello, Spike. Thou have a minute?"

"Hey, Princess Luna. Sure, I have plenty of time to spare," Spike said happily. 

"Thou shall follow me," Luna said. She escorts Spike into the realm of dreams. 

"So, what is it you want to talk about?"

Princess Luna sighs sadly. "My sister, sent me here to bring you back to Twilight Sparkle."

"What?! No! Why?!" Spike asks fearfully. Just hearing Twilight's name makes him quiver in fear. "Princess Celestia told me that I don't have to go anywhere!"

"My sister made a mistake. She foresees the future. Spike, you hinge everything Twilight and the Element of Harmony Wielders, bestow."

"How did Princess Celestia foresee the Future, Luna?" Spike asks curiously. 

"She has a gift. Her dreams allow her to witness the unfortunate effects of the future. All of Equestria hinges on you, Spike. Twilight Sparkle, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Applejack start to change and deform for the worse."

"You're lying...They don't need me..." Spike starts tearing up, "All they do is used and abused me. I can't go back to that lifestyle,"

"Allow me to show you, life without your presence in Ponyville."

Luna takes Spike and enters Fluttershy's dream. 

"Whose dream is this, Luna?"

"Fluttershy's dream. Once again, back-to-back nights, she's reliving this dream,"

Fluttershy's animals in her cottage are abandoning her. Fluttershy pleads, begs for the animals to stay with her. They made up their minds. They don't want to be abused by ponies. Fluttershy cries as her cottage is empty and silent. Spike feels a little shameful but not enough to make him go back to Twilight Sparkle. Princess Luna proceeds to the next dream. 

"Where are we now, Luna?"

"Rarity's dream."

Rarity is living in poverty. Without Spike's assistance, Rarity is unable to create new fascinating dresses. She's unable to work her magic. She's wearing rags for clothes. Rarity is starving. Her body looks like she hasn't eaten in weeks.

"Whoa, this is horrifying, Luna," 

"This is a dream, Spike. Imagine if this were to happen in reality when you aren't around."

Spike shook his head, not wanting to imagine that possibility. Princess Luna takes Spike to Pinkie Pie's dream. 

"Is this..?"

"Yes, this is Pinkie Pie's dream."

Pinkie Pie can no longer throw parties. After hearing Spike's reasoning for running away, ponies decide to discriminate Pinkie Pie for who she is. They don't invite her to any parties. They don't come to any parties thrown by her. They took Pinkie's smile. Since Spike is no longer residing in Ponyville, she decides to retire as a party planner. Pinkie Pie cares so much for other ponies she neglected her only outer species friend. After realizing her mistake and being unable to fix it, Pinkie Pie decides to move back to her rock farm. With Ponyville no longer having any smiles, Ponyville becomes a not-so-happy place to live. Spike shed a few tears. 

The next dream Princess Luna brings Spike to belongs to Rainbow Dash. The Wonderbolts dismiss Rainbow Dash for discriminating and mocking a different species. They don't tolerate racism from anypony. Rainbow Dash pleads with Spitfire to give her another chance. Rainbow Dash begs Soarin and the rest of the Wonderbolts to allow her to redeem herself. They denied her request. Rainbow Dash cries as the Wonderbolts fly away from her. Rainbow's career of becoming a Wonderbolt is over. She hits herself multiple times as she starts going into insanity. Spike has seen too much and wants the nightmare to end. Princess Luna takes Spike to Applejack's dream. 

"Sweet...Apple...Acres," Spike said. He sniffs as he's seen horrid faces from the ponies' dreams.   

"Yes. Without you, Spike. Applejack is guaranteed to have no help for Apple bucking season."

Applejack is in a state of panic. She frantically looks around her in the apple tree orchard. Nopony is coming to help her, after hearing how Twilight and her friends used Spike, they too don't want to be used for hard labor and not get appreciation. Applejack is unable to get any of her family to come and help her. Applejack's friends are nowhere in sight. Once more, she's alone with a tough task ahead of her. Applejack yells for help. No one comes. The apples themselves are rotten. Ever since the Apple Family heard the news of Spike, they started to have trust issues with Applejack. Even Apple Bloom hasn't looked up to her sister. Applejack hits her head on the apple trees. Hoping everything she's experiencing is nothing more than a nightmare. 

"Ponyville without apples are going to starve..." 

"Not just that, Spike. There is one more thing I have to show you."

Princess Luna takes Spike to Twilight's dream. Twilight is at the Golden Oak Library. She's clutching the picture of she and Spike, apologizing over and over. Twilight's room is a mess. Books scattered everywhere, notes on the walls, and Twilight repeat the same sentence. "I'm sorry, Spike! I'm sorry, Spike! I'm sorry, Spike! I'm sorry, Spike!" Spike has never seen Twilight broken like this. He feels bad. Spike turns to Luna. 

"What happens in Celestia's vision?"

"I'll show you."

Princess Luna takes Spike to Princess Celestia's dream. From there, Spike sees Equestria divided and conquered. A raging beast destroying all plant life in Equestria, ponies, too weak to do anything but watch the carnage, Princess Celestia, Luna, and Cadance being locked up in Tartarus, and all of Equestria doomed to suffering for all of eternity. Spike has seen enough. His new friends and family would be suffering as well, their fate sealed by his decision to run away. Spike turns to Princess Luna with tears in his eyes. 

"Luna, I want all of this to stop..."

Princess Luna pulls Spike out of Princess Celestia's dream. Spike pants and looks at Princess Luna. She too is shedding tears. 

"Spike, I do have the magic to erase your mind, the minds of everypony else as well. I'll erase the times you were abused and used as well. Hopefully, Twilight Sparkle and her friends will be treating you better."		

"I don't care anymore. I don't want anypony to suffer from my decisions..." Spike starts to cry. "My suffering does bring harmony in Equestria!"

Princess Luna hugs Spike using her wings. She can't bear to see Spike, cry. She promises Spike that everything will be better. Spike calms down and allows Princess Luna to work her magic. Even though Spike's mind is about to get erased, he spoke the names of his friends; Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare. 

Princess Luna erases Spike's mind. He no longer remembers the time of being used, abused, mocked, laughed at, and left behind. The erase memory spell spreads like wildfire throughout all of Equestria. What happened the day after never happened. Spike is sleeping on his bed next to Twilight Sparkle. She just came back home from Manehattan. She smiles, knowing that everything will be better than before. 

"Welcome home, Spike," Twilight whispers lovingly. "I'll take better care of you, I promise."

Discord relinquishes his grip on Princess Luna. He pants, knowing he took happiness away from a friend of his. Discord isn't allowed to speak about the soul-binding agreement. He hopes that the agreement has a setback so Spike can return to his real family. Spike deserves better, not more suffering. 

"Twilight Sparkle, I hope you get what you truly deserve. Especially, you; Princess Celestia," Discord says as he goes to sleep.
> The Crystal Faire
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Spike is waking up. He sees Twilight holding onto him. Twilight is smiling as she holds him. Her purple eyes saturated, her smile; benevolent. Spike feels at ease, knowing today will be another great day. Twilight tells Spike that he'll be having a month off from doing any chores around the library. He'll be spending more time with her and her friends. Spike is now ecstatic.  He can finally hang out with his friends and not worry about working too much. Spike and Twilight leave the library together and meets up with Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. 

"Hi, guys," Spike said. 

"Howdy, Spike," Applejack said. 

"Hi, Spike," Fluttershy said as she smiles. 

"Hey, Spike!" Pinkie shouted happily. 

"Sup, Spike," Rainbow said. 

"Morning, Spikey-wikey," Rarity said. 

"So, what are we doing today?"

"Today, we're going to the Crystal Empire," Pinkie shouts with joy. 

"Yea!" Rainbow shouts enthusiastically. "Today at the Crystal Empire, they're having a Crystal Faire!  We're going to travel there right now!"

"Awesome! Let's go!" Spike shouted. 

The girls and Spike are off to the Crystal Empire. Meanwhile, in Pony Central, Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, and Sunny Flare are waking up. They head downstairs to the kitchen. Something is amiss with them. They decided to see who else is in Lemon's house. They check all the rooms and sigh in relief that it was only they. However, something is still amiss and can't figure it out. 

"Uh, do any of you feel that someone's missing?" Indigo said.

"Yea, can't quite put a hoof on it," Lemon said. 

"Me neither. I could have sworn someone else was with us," Sunny said. 

"Why do I feel sad all of a sudden?" Lemon said. 

"I'm feeling sad as well. Like, someone is supposed to be part of our family," Sunny said. 

"This is freaking me out. I need so air," Indigo said frantically. 

Lemon's door opens widely and loudly. 

"Girls!" Sugarcoat shouts. "The Crystal Empire is having a Crystal Faire! Wanna come with Sour and me?"

"Yes!" They shouted. 

Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare is heading towards the train station. On the way to the train station, Sugarcoat and Sour Sweet; feels that something is amiss. They are starting to feel sad. They couldn't help but feel someone is missing from the group. The train pulls in the station. The girls get on and sit together, discussing the feeling they are having.  	

"Do you girls feel that someone is missing?" Sugarcoat asks. 

"Yea, when Lemon, Indigo, and I woke up, we felt something wasn't quite right. We explored around to see if someone else was sleeping over with us. We were wrong but still, couldn't help that someone is missing from the group. Problem, we have no idea who it is," Sunny said. 

"Yea. I feel that we were starting to become a better family," Lemon said. 

"Well, hopefully, the Crystal Faire can help us feel better," Sour said. 

As they travel to the Crystal Empire, Twilight and Spike are meeting up with Princess Cadance and Shining Armor. Princess Cadance asks Pinkie Pie and Rarity to set up the Crystal Faire like the last time. Applejack and Rainbow Dash are getting ready for jousting. Fluttershy is gathering the animals for the Crystal Faire petting zoo. 

"Twily," Shining said. 

"Big bro," Twilight said. 

Twilight and Shining hug each other. Twilight thanked Celestia that Shining Armor has no memory of Spike's journal entries and Spike's motivation for running away. She's also glad that Cadance has no idea what Spike endured in his journal entries. Everything is going smoothly for Twilight. Twilight and Cadance go up to each other and do their Sunshine Ladybug routine.

"Hi, Cadance. Hi, Shining," Spike said. 

"Welcome back, Brave and Glorius Spike," Cadance and Shining said. 

"Thank you, Twilight Sparkle for coming to the Crystal Empire to help out with the Crystal Faire," 

"You're welcome, Cadance. Happy that my friends and I can help out once more," Twilight said. 

"So, what can I do to help?" Spike asks. 

"Well, you can bring smiles on the Crystal Ponies' faces, take pictures with them and show how to have fun at the Crystal Faire," Cadance said. 

"Also, the Crystal Guards will aid you when you need some assistance," Shining said. 

"Sounds good to me," Spike said.  

Spike and several Crystal Guards leave and head out to the outskirts of the castle. Twilight, Shining, and Cadance are now making preparations for Celestia's and Luna's arrival. 

"Alright everyone, let's move towards the statue of me holding the Crystal Heart, I'm pretty sure most of the Crystal Ponies will be over there taking pictures," Spike said. 

Spike and the Crystal Guards trot over to the statue. They see hundreds of Crystal Ponies taking turns getting pictures. They cheer and chants Spike's name when they see him coming by. Spike could help but blush a little from the attention. Then he decides to take pictures with the Crystal Ponies. After a while of taking pictures, Spike grabs a megaphone nearby. 

"Everypony ready for the Crystal Faire!" Spike shouts. Crystal Ponies cheer. "Then let's go!" He along with everypony go. 

2 hours later. Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare arrives at the Crystal Empire; they gaze around until they see a statue of a baby dragon holding onto the Crystal Heart. 

"Is anyone having the feeling that we've seen that face before?" Sugarcoat asks. 

"Yea, something about the statue's resemblance seems familiar," Indigo said. 

"Like, he was living with us," Lemon said. 

"I think we all are hallucinating. We never saw a baby dragon living among us," Sour said in a soured tone. 

"Then why does it feel like we have then?" Sunny said. 

"Just a weird dream and feeling. That is all. Why are we even talking about this? We're supposed to be having fun and clear this feeling out of our minds," Indigo said. 

Then all of a sudden, the statue glows given Lemon, Indigo, Sugarcoat, Sour, and Sunny rainbow color eyes for a moment. After they blink, they felt a presence. 

"Did anypony felt that?" Lemon asks. 

"Yea, it felt, different," Sunny said. 

"Like, something was calling out to us," Sugarcoat states. 

"Something important. I can feel it. Something about the dragon of this statue is trying to call out to us," Indigo said. 

"I think it's a message. A message that'll lead to something important later in the future," Sour said. 

"Whatever it may be, we'll be prepared," Sugarcoat said. 

"Agreed," The girls said in unison. 

As they trot towards the Crystal Faire, Spike, and several Crystal Ponies are watching Applejack and Rainbow Dash joust. Half the crowd chanting Applejack, the other half are chanting for Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash and Applejack are giving their all, neither of them wants to lose. Pinkie Pie and Rarity are having fun entertaining the Crystal Ponies. Pinkie Pie is playing the flugelhorn. She's gotten better at it while doing a dance routine with cupcakes. Rarity is designing dresses for anypony that comes into her booth. She decided to create a new style using the knowledge of the Crystal Empire. Fluttershy's petting zoo is the center of attention among the youth. 

Sour Sweet and Sugarcoat are eating some of the crystal corn. Lemon Zest buys a flugelhorn and plays it. Indigo Zap decides to watch the jousting matchup between Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Sunny Flare, for some reason, decides to visit the Crystal Library. Sunny asks about the baby dragon statue and its origins. The librarian explains that Spike the Brave and Glorius returned the Crystal Heart, restore the love, and help defeated King Sombra. The librarian explains more of Spike and his tale. Sunny Flare thanks the librarian for her time and leaves the library. She catches up to her friends. Indigo just came back from watching the joust. 

"Hey, Sunny. Want some crystal corn?" Sour asks. 

"Maybe later, there is something I have to tell you all," Sunny said. 

"What is it?" Sugarcoat asks. 

"It's about the statue of that baby dragon. His name is Spike. His story is eerie similar to the one I heard the other day," Sunny stated. 

"Care to tell us?" Indigo said. 

Sunny Flare spent a half-hour explaining Spike's origins in the Crystal Empire. Lemon and Indigo feel that they heard of the story as well. Sour and Sugarcoat are amazed by the tale. 

"Wow, a baby dragon defeated the dreaded King Sombra. That's impressive," Sugarcoat states. 

"For some reason, I've heard of the story," Indigo said in confusion. 

"You as well?" Sunny questions. 

"Even I," Lemon said. 

"Something is screwy here. We're going to find out what it is," Sunny said. 

"Yea!" The girls said in unison. Then they decided to see the statue once more. 

Spike and several Crystal Guards are going back to the statue to see if anypony is over there. There is a group looking at it. Spike decides to approach and tell his tale. As Spike gets closer to the group of ponies, two Crystal Guards snatches him and takes him back to Twilight and Princess Cadance. The group of ponies turns for a second. When they turn, Spike gets a glimpse of who they are. They look familiar to him. As the Crystal Statue shines, his eyes for a moment turn into a rainbow. A magical presence made itself known. Spike wants to know who that group of ponies is. He feels the need to be closer to them. The Crystal Guards drop Spike in front of Twilight and Cadance, Spike immediately, tries to run back to the group of ponies outside. Only to be levitated by Twilight's magic. 

"Where are you off to, Spike?" Twilight asks.

"To that group of ponies, I saw seeing the statue upfront," Spike said. 

"Another set of your adoring fans?" Twilight asks jokingly. 

"No! Those ponies are visitors. I want to see them!" Spike shouts. 

Twilight feels suspicious. She trots over to a binocular to have a look. When she looks through, Twilight is stunned. She sees the ponies Spike called as his new friends and family. Twilight in fear thought of an excuse for Spike to stay to stall time. 

"Hey Spike, you look a bit peckish. Eat some gems and relax for a while. Princess Celestia and Luna will be arriving soon. I'll need your assistance when they show up," Twilight said, smiling nervously. 

"Alright, Twilight. Anyways, I am a bit hungry for gems," Spike said as he rubs his belly. 

Twilight sighs in relief.	

"That was a close one. I gotta make sure Spike stays away from those ponies," Twilight said. "Can't have my soul-binding agreement dissolving on my watch." Twilight looks again and still sees the group staring at the statue. It's becoming unnerving for Twilight Sparkle. Just last night when she went to Ragna Rock and now, is karma coming after her already? No, she refuses to allow karma to strike her. She's going to keep Spike out of their hooves. She's going to take care of Spike, love him, and make sure he's happy on her watch. 

After the festivities, Princess Celestia and Luna show up importantly. Twilight Sparkle and Princess Cadance go with Celestia and Luna to a private room to have a meeting. 

"Our apologies for showing up later when the festivities are over," Princess Luna said. 

"My sister and I received a message from the Dignitaries that they'll be arriving tomorrow at the Crystal Empire. Twilight, I would love for you to smile, wave, and unveil a banner," Princess Celestia said. 

"Sure, no problem," Twilight said as she twitches a little. 

"Twilight, is there a problem?" Princess Cadance asks. 

"Yes and no," Twilight exclaims. 

"Well, if you need anything, let us know."

"Well, since the Dignitaries are coming to the Crystal Empire tomorrow, I think we should dismiss the ponies who aren't living in the Crystal Empire. For such important, we need to take this seriously," Twilight said. Hoping this would be a good enough excuse to have Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare leave the premises without questioning orders.

"Very well, Twilight. I'll have the Crystal Guards escort visiting ponies back to the train station," Princess Cadance said calmly. "Crystal Guards!" Cadance shouts. 

Two Crystal Guards trots in and bowing in respect. 

"Yes, your highness,"

"Escort the visiting ponies back to the train station. The Crystal Faire is about to end."

"Yes, Princess."

The Crystal Guards leave them and gathers a platoon to escort the visiting ponies. As this is going on, Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare are still staring at the statue. When the Crystal Guards come up to them, they didn't move. They spoke but didn't listen. The Crystal Guards take excessive force and picks up the girls. After the escort, the Crystal Guards lets them know that tomorrow is not a day for visiting. Lemon Zest and her friends understand and leave peacefully. They are now starting to feel a connection with the baby dragon despite having no memory. The magic they felt earlier seems to get stronger by the second. 

Twilight meets up with Spike and their friends. Twilight tells them about tomorrow's event with the Dignitaries. Twilight and her friends decide to call it a day and get some rest. Little did they know that Discord is observing from afar. 

"Hmm, it seems that the Magic of Friendship is changing course or, the Magic of Friendship is trying to uplift your contract Twilight. We'll see how things play out from there," Discord says as he's spying on ponies.
> Keys to Victory
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight is at the balcony smiling and waving as the Dignitaries are approaching. She unveils the banner with respect. After a while, Twilight, with her duties as a princess, she feels out of place. What kind of a princess would she be if she only smiles and waves? Later in the night, Princess Celestia has a vision. She sees the emergence of Tirek rising. The next morning, Princess Celestia calls for a meeting with Twilight, Cadance, and Luna discussing Tirek. Princess Cadance decides that Twilight should apprehend Tirek. Princess Celestia said no. Princess Celestia suggests that Discord to take Twilight's place. Celestia's decision is final.  Twilight and her friends go back to Ponyville. Spike is looking at the opposite direction of where the train pulls in. 

"Uh, Spike? The train is not pulling from that direction. What are you thinking?" Twilight asks suspiciously. 

"Oh, uh..," Spike is trying to come up with a good excuse. "Just wondering if our train were to take an express route going in that direction," Spike said as he sweats a bit. 

"No, it doesn't Spike," Pinkie exclaims. "Ponyville is not that way. Unless you want to go over to Griffin Stone."

"You've been to Griffin Stone, Pinkie?" Rainbow asks. 

"No. It's what it says on the map," Pinkie pulls out a map of Equestria. 

"Huh, so that's the express train," Rainbow said as she looks at the map. 

Spike gets on the train track and starts walking. He doesn't get too far as Twilight uses her magic to levitate Spike.

"Spike! Are you crazy?!" Twilight shouts angrily. 

"You could have gotten yourself hurt!" Rainbow shouted. 

"And, your scales would have been ruined!" Exclaimed Rarity. 

Everypony looks at Rarity in confusion. 

"What? I want to test the idea of making a dress using scales."

"I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that. Also, Rarity, you're not going anywhere near Spike," Twilight said. 

"Twilight, darling. I'm not going to use Spikey-wikey scales. I'm going to observe and see what cool lining I can use with my fabric to match it," Rarity said. 

"You're not getting near, Spike with that project of yours. Find someone else."

Rarity pouts as the train pulls up to take everypony and dragon back home. Twilight Sparkle couldn't believe that Princess Celestia picked Discord instead of her. Talk about a turn for twists. Twilight makes a soul-binding agreement to have Spike and Discord gets to stop Tirek. Twilight hopes that she can be of good use later. Right now, she needs to make sure that Spike is having a stress free day. 

Later in the day, Twilight decides to take Spike and visit the Castle of the Two Sisters. On the way there, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash decides to go with Twilight. On the way there, the girls and Spike were mentioning about the Elements of Harmony. Rainbow Dash complained about giving it up a little knowing that Discord is free to do whatever he wants. Discord makes an appearance. He gloats about having to stop Tirek while reading the friendship journal. Discord teleports everyone towards the Tree of Harmony where the chest is. He mentions the chest in front of everypony. Discord tosses the journal with highlighted pages of certain events. 

"Now, if you all excuse me, I have a villain to apprehend," Discord said as he opens a door leading to Tirek. When he shuts the door, Discord looks up in disbelief. He had to fake his emotion in front of Twilight. He wishes he can tell Fluttershy about what Twilight is doing. Right now, Discord needs to focus on apprehending Tirek.

Twilight, Spike, and the girls are searching in the Castle of the Two Sisters reading books in hopes of finding answers to their dilemma. Twilight picks up the journal and starts reading the highlighted parts Discord chose. It explains how Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy have handled their situation. Their Element situation. In return, after helping ponies, they were given something to remember. Twilight figures there is a connection from the items through the Tree of Harmony. 

After a while, Twilight Sparkle and her friends go back to the Tree of Harmony. Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash place their items on the ground. Twilight ponders what to do next. Due to Pinkie's shenanigans, she tosses the rubber chicken she interrogated at the chest, the rubber chicken turns into a key. The key then inserts itself into the chest. Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash place their items on the chest and turns into keys. Only one is missing Twilight's key. Spike receives a letter from Princess Celestia with urgent news. 

"I'm needed in Canterlot!"

30 minutes ago

Discord locates Tirek in the dark alley. He disguises himself as a unicorn and waits for Tirek to come closer to him. Tirek absorbs more magic power from a unicorn then walks over to the next one. That's when Discord strikes and puts Tirek in chains. 

"Gotcha, Tirek. Now, you'll be going back to Tartarus."

"On the contrary, Discord," Tirek laughs as he pulls out the book of D.W.A.D.

"What?! Where you got that book from?!" Discord shouts angrily. 	

"I found this book in the Tartarus forbidden library. Seem that Celestia made a copy."

Discord growls. The book of D.W.A.D. has more magic power than him. He must comply with the wielder of the book. 

"Now, Discord. I have something in mind that'll benefit the two of us."

"I'm listening," Discord said as he has his arms crossed. 

"Help me to grow strong. In return, you'll have Freedom."

"Freedom?" Discord looks at a picture of Fluttershy. "Forgive me, Fluttershy. I am bound to the book." Discord said quietly. 

"So, Discord. Do we have an agreement?"

Discord sighs and spawns a soul-binding agreement with a pen. "Sign on the dotted line. You know I'm bound by the book to accept any agreement."

"Good. Now let's get to work," Tirek said as he signs the contract.

Present time

Twilight Sparkle is in Canterlot. She storms through Princess Celestia's throne.

"I came as quickly as I could. Is something wrong? Is it Tirek?" Twilight asks nervously. 

"I'm afraid I put too much trust in Discord. Discord betrays pony kind, now helping Tirek get stronger."

"How can Discord do this? I thought our friendship means something to him? I thought he changed." Twilight asks. 

"Tirek is now consuming the magic from unicorns, consuming the flight of the pegasi, and consuming the strength of the earth ponies. It'll only be a matter of time that Tirek will try to consume Alicorn magic,"

"So, what are we going to do, Princess Celestia?"

"We're going to rid ourselves of our Alicorn magic," Celestia said sadly and firmly. 

"We believe that Tirek does not know of a fourth Alicorn Princess. Therefore, we can transfer our magic to you, Twilight. Keeping it away from Tirek's clutches," Luna said. 

"Hope you understand what we are asking of you to do, Twilight," Cadance said. 

"I do. I'm ready."		

Princess Celestia, Luna, and Cadance transfer their magic to Twilight Sparkle. Discord gets a tingling feeling. He knows something isn't right. Twilight goes back home as Celestia, Luna, and Cadance now await for Tirek's arrival. 

Tirek and Discord are now in Pony Central. The Shadowbolts are giving Tirek some minor headaches. They were able to land a few punches before Discord traps them in a net. Tirek consumes the Shadowbolts wing power. Tirek is on a rampage. Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare is hiding in Lemon's cellar. Discord feels a different magical presence. He knows it's coming from Spike's new friends. Discord decides to keep Tirek away from them five. He senses a much important matter coming from them. 

"Alright, big guy. Next stop. Canterlot!"

Tirek chuckles and walks towards Canterlot. Hours later, the two arrive in Canterlot. Tirek storms through Celestia's throne. He tries to consume Celestia, Luna, and Cadance's Alicorn magic. After Tirek gloats, he sends Celestia, Luna, and Cadance to Tartarus. Discord is having a little fun messing around with the windows. Tirek gives Discord a medallion as a token of gratitude and loyalty. Then Tirek becomes infuriated when Discord hasn't mentioned about a fourth Princess.  

"Well, Tirek. In our contract, you never ask me about any new Alicorns in existence,"

"Quiet! You weasel," Tirek sighs. "How can we locate this Twilight Sparkle?"

"Through her friends in Ponyville."

"Let's go."

"Allow me to round up her friends."

"So be it. I'll be behind you."

Discord teleports to Ponyville. He and Fluttershy hug each other. Then Discord locks his friends in a cage, now awaiting for Tirek's arrival. 

"Discord, why are you doing this? I thought we were friends," Fluttershy said sadly. 

"Sorry, Fluttershy. It has to be this way," Discord said. 

Discord wants to show his emotions. He wants to tell the truth. The soul-binding agreement he and Tirek made is preventing Discord from showing his true colors. All he can do now is act and wait. Tirek arrives. 

"Well done, Discord," Tirek said as he consumes the magic and power from his caged friends. Discord can only look away.

"Now, we have one left," Discord said. 

"Not exactly," Tirek grabs Discord. "You helped me gain enough power to drain Princess Twilight's magic. Now, I need your magic," Tirek absorbs Discord's magic and tosses him aside. Tirek knows how to work his way around the soul-binding agreement without causing it to drift apart. "Now, you have your freedom, Discord."

"This isn't freedom, y-you liar," Discord said weakly. 

"I never said freedom for you to spread your chaos. In that agreement of ours, chaos will spread as long as you helped me. Thanks for your services, weasel."

Tirek now tracks Twilight Sparkle. He can now sense her magic from afar. Tirek decides to take Twilight's friends and Discord as a trophy or in case, a bargaining chip. Twilight is practicing her Alicorn magic. She teleports herself between a rock and a hard place. Tirek made himself known by shouting Princess Twilight's name. The two then collide in a fight. For a while, no one had the upper hand. Twilight teleported herself from harm's way to the Golden Oak Library only to be blown up by Tirek. Twilight was able to save her pet owl from certain doom. After a while, the two agree that their on an impasse. Tirek spawns Twilight's friend and demands a trade. Her friends' freedom for all of the Equestrian Magic that's left in Twilight. Twilight sees the colors reflecting from her friends' containment. Twilight decides that her friends are more important than her magic. Tirek releases Twilight's friends except for Discord. Twilight demanded Discord's freedom. Tirek complies and allows Discord to roam free. Then Tirek absorbs all of Twilight's magic. Discord walks up to Twilight. He has some hatred for Twilight. For now, he has to suck it up. Discord thanks Twilight and gives her his medallion as a token of his friendship to her. 

"Thanks, Discord," Twilight said. Her medallion starts glowing. 

"Twi, that could be the last key we need," Applejack said. 

"We have no time to lose," Twilight said. 

Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Discord run towards the Tree of Harmony except for Spike. He's in a trance. The Tree of Harmony is speaking to him. In Pony Central, Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare eyes were rainbow-colored for a moment. They felt the magical presence stronger this time. 

"You felt that?" Lemon asks. 

"Yes! Something is calling out to us! I can feel it!" Indigo shouts. 

"I feel a sudden urge to fight back," Sunny said. 

"I sense a tree. A tree with powerful magic," Sour said. 

"It's the Tree of Harmony! The Tree of Harmony is calling out to us!" Sugarcoat states. 

"What?" The girls said in unison. 

"Think about it," Sugarcoat said. "The Tree of Harmony would not call out to anyone unless it's important," Sugarcoat states. 

"Princess Twilight and her friends are the wielders of the Elements. Their Friendship is powerful. They proved time and time again that they can achieve the impossible," Sunny said. 

"Unless their Friendship is corrupted," Indigo said. 

Eyes widen for everypony in the cellar. 

"Then...that means..." Lemon said in lost for words. 

"The Tree of Harmony has found a replacement. The Tree chose us," Sugarcoat said. 

"There's only five of us! There needs to be a sixth," Sunny said. 

Lemon Zest climbs up the stairs and opens the cellar doors. 

"We won't find out if there needs to be a sixth or not by sitting here. The Tree called us. We must answer," Lemon said. 

"Let's do this!" Indigo shouts with pride. 

"Yea!" Sugarcoat, Sour, and Sunny said. 

Lemon Zest and her friends trot towards the train station. They boarded a train and got it moving. The Tree of Harmony is guiding them towards Ponyville. Moments after Spike's trance, he starts running. He catches up with Twilight and her friends. 

"You okay, Spike?" Twilight asks. 

"I'm fine. I think. I'm not sure," Spike answers. 

"After this, Spike. We're going for donuts."

"Sound good, Twilight. I can already taste it."

A half-hour later, Twilight and her friends are now in front of the Tree of Harmony. Twilight places the medallion on the chest. It turns into a key.

"Finally, we can open it," Twilight said. 

She and her friends turn the key to open the chest. The chest doesn't open.

"What?!" Twilight and her friends shouted in anger and confusion. 

"Why isn't the chest opening?!" Twilight shouts in anger. 

"Twilight, calm down. Maybe there's something else to it," Applejack said as she's calming down Twilight.

"No, no, NO!" Twilight shouts. "It's supposed to open! It's supposed to open!" Twilight nearly breaks down. "Stupid chest, why won't you open!"		

"That's because the Tree of Harmony no longer deems you worthy of its magic power."

"Who said that?" Twilight turns angrily. Her anger then turns to fear. In front of her is Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare. 

"Uh, pardon me. Who the hay are you, gals? Applejack said.

Spike sees the group of ponies. His eyes are rainbowed-color for a split second. 

"You girls, look familiar," Spike said as he gets closer.

"I'm Lemon Zest."

"Indigo Zap."

"Sugarcoat."

"Sour Sweet."

"Sunny Flare."

Twilight and her friends are now having a stare-off. Spike looks at the group of ponies then he looks at the Tree of Harmony. The Tree of Harmony zaps Spike with a memory spell. His eyes glow, fragments of his memories are surging in, he remembers who his friends are. After the zap, Spike confronts the group and smiles. 

"It's nice to be with my friends once more," Spike said. He's staring at Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare. 

"Uh, Spike," Applejack asks. "What are you talking about?"  

"The Tree of Harmony spoke to me. The Tree of Harmony spoke to them," Spike turns then points at Twilight. "Twilight Sparkle has corrupted Friendship!"

Everypony gasps, stunned after hearing what Spike said. 

"That's a lie, Spike. Twilight would never corrupt Friendships. Right, Twilight?" Applejack said. 

Twilight is silent then turns to Discord. 

"Admit it, Twilight," Discord said as he crosses his arms.  

"Twilight, darling. Did you corrupt a Friendship?"

"No! I restore Friendships! It's what I do!"

The Tree of Harmony has enough of Twilight and zaps her with powerful magic. She wails as the memories of everypony in Equestria are restored. Discord laughs freely. Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare is now infuriated at Twilight Sparkle and her friends. Indigo swoops and takes Spike, back. After the zap, Twilight Sparkle is lying on the ground. She's unconscious. The Elements of Harmony are changing form. Everypony, dragon, and draqonecuus watches. They are stunned. The Element of Loyalty changes to look like Indigo's cutie mark. The Element of Honesty changes to look like Sugarcoat's cutie mark. The Element of Laughter changes to look like Lemon's cutie mark. The Element of Kindness changes to look like Sunny Flare's cutie mark. The Element of Generosity changes to look like Sour Sweet's cutie mark. 

"That's five. I wonder who'll be the sixth?" Discord said. 

The Tree of Harmony and the Element of Magic gives Spike a magical power surge zap. Spike is levitating as he is getting a mixture of Equestrian Magic mixed with his dragon's powers. The Tree of Harmony and Element of Magic deem Spike worthy of using its magic. The keys from the chest changes form as well to match up the cutie marks except for Twilight's key. It remains the same as the Element of Magic has the same resemblance outlook.  

"Well, that answers my question," Discord said. 

Spike snaps out of his trance. "Quickly girls, Tirek can show up any minute," 

Spike, Lemon, Indigo, Sugarcoat, Sour, and Sunny turn the key and the chest open. The magic within transformed the girls into rainbow-powered ponies. As for Spike, he turns into a powerful teenage dragon capable of handling Equestrian Magic better. Tirek is coming closer. He's destroying plant life all around him. 

"Let's take Tirek down!" Indigo shouts. She and her friends fly up to confront Tirek. 

"Huh, this is new. I expect Twilight and her friends with new magic for me to feed."

"Sorry, Tirek. Your reign has come to an end," Spike said. 

Tirek blasts his magic at the group. They are unaffected of Tirek's magic. 

"What?!"

"This ends now!" Everyone shouts in unison. They blast Tirek with magic powerful enough to revert him to his weaker state. Tirek is sent back to Tartarus. 

Now the group split into two sets of three spreading and restoring magic that was taken away by Tirek all around Equestria. Princess Celestia, Luna, and Cadance fly out of Tartarus as their magic is restored. The group returns to the Tree of Harmony as the chest shuts itself. The chest remains for a while longer. Princess Celestia, Luna, and Cadance come to the Tree of Harmony to congrats their heroes. As they come in, they see Twilight unconscious. 

"What happened to Princess Twilight Sparkle?" Celestia asks. 

"Uh, Princess. We have a situation," Applejack said.

The Tree of Harmony zaps the Princesses with a memory spell. The memory spell did not make its way to Tartarus since Tartarus' magic depleted the memory spell from coming in. 

"I'm free from this misery!" Discord said as he flies around victoriously and happily.

"Free from what misery?" Fluttershy asks. 

"Well since somepony's soul-binding agreement has come to an end, I can tell you all," Discord said. 

"N-N-No..." Twilight said as she wakes up. 

"Twilight!" Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow shouts. They were happy to see Twilight is alright. Princess Celestia walks up to Discord. 

"There was a soul-binding agreement?" Celestia asks curiously. 

Discord takes that question offensively. He looks at Celestia as a hypocrite she is. 

"Yes, Celestia. There was a soul-binding agreement. Ever heard of it?"

Princess Celestia remains silent from that mockery of a question. 

"Twilight, are you okay?" Applejack asks. 

"No, I need to go," Twilight said. She tries to trot out of the cave, Spike and his friends block Twilight's path. "No, no, no, no, no, no!" Twilight said fearfully. 

"Twilight Sparkle," Discord said. He smiles devilishly at Twilight. She knows what's coming. 

"That is enough, Discord!" Applejack shouts. Despite Discord being reformed an all, she still doesn't trust him. She has some hatred for him. 

"Yea, leave Twilight alone!" Rainbow shouts angrily. 

"Well, the reason why I'm happy is that I'm free from a soul-binding agreement Twilight and I made,"

Everypony looks at Twilight. Spike in his teenage form glares at Twilight in shock and disbelief. 

"Discord," Spike said. "Explain."

"Certainly," Discord said as he pulls a chair to sit on. "Twilight came to me wanting to make a soul-binding agreement. She has found a book called D.W.A.D. I was bound by the book to agree on anything the wielder has to say."

Twilight starts twitching, her pupils grew small, she starts to sweat and cover her face with her wings. She's breaking down in shame, guilt, and defeat. 

"Wh-Wh-What did she say?" Spike turns to Twilight as she's lost for words. 

"She said to erase everypony's minds, including yours; Spike. She wants to have a second chance with you after going stir-crazy the other day."

Everypony is stunned. Spike couldn't believe that Twilight would stoop to that level. He looks at Twilight with tears streaming from both their eyes. 

"Then Twilight asks me to take control of Luna's mind so she can manipulate the dreams of her friends then have her take Spike out of his dream to show the manipulated dreams into thinking the worst was yet to come without Spike's presence in Ponyville. With that being said and done, Spike would eventually give up living in Pony Central to protect the ones he loves. Also, Celestia's dream was manipulated to confirm that everything was real during the time."

Princess Celestia, Luna, and Spike turn to Twilight angrily. Twilight cries her eyes out and apologizes for her distorted behavior. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity give worried expressions towards Twilight. They don't want to believe what Discord is saying. Even Fluttershy who has the complete trust of Discord. Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare has heard enough and wants to take Spike back home. 

"Has anypony else made a soul-binding agreement with you, Discord?" Spike asks. 

"Yes," Discord turns to Fluttershy and her friends. He walks up to them. He picks up Fluttershy and hugs her. "Tirek found the book of D.W.A.D. I had no choice but to accept what he says. His agreement was me helping him grow strong. In return, I get freedom. Tirek, as smart as he was, he worked his around the soul-binding agreement. Which was why he took my magic away. I'm sorry that I couldn't tell any of you what was going on. The book of D.W.A.D. prevents me from revealing the truth," Discord said sadly. 

"So, that's why you helped, Tirek," Fluttershy said now feeling guilty. 

Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity apologize to Discord. Princess Celestia walks up to Twilight who's still crying.

"I am disappointed with you, Twilight. The Tree of Harmony is saddened from the way you corrupted a Friendship," Celestia said. She is angry at Twilight Sparkle for her schemes. She is disgusted at Twilight for using the book of D.W.A.D. "Do you have anything to say for yourself?"		

Twilight gets up weakly. Her body shakes as she pants repeatedly. Guilt, shame, sadness, and fear strikes her. 

"I'm sorry," Twilight said. "I'm sorry for my transactions. I now realize what I was doing is beyond wrong. I don't expect anyone to forgive me, especially the Tree of Harmony. I betrayed Friendship. I deserve any punishment that awaits," Twilight said in defeat. 

Princess Celestia's anger is starting to let loose. She's unable to control it. 

"That's all you have to say?!" Celestia said in her Royal Voice.

Twilight flinches from Celestia's Royal Voice. Everyone looks at Celestia. Discord knows what's coming.  	

"Twilight Sparkle. You will not be known as a Princess in Equestria anymore. A Princess cannot cooperate under your circumstances. You are forbidden to see and write to Spike, Celestia's anger is spiking out of control. She takes a few moments to calm herself down. Discord smiles. He knows what's coming next. "Twilight Sparkle," Celestia eye twitches from her anger, she pants heavily, and her sweat is getting hotter. 

"Thou sister, you okay?"

"Celestia, are you alright?" Cadance asks. 

"Never in my life, I've ever been disgusted by an uprising Alicorn Princess. I'm so ashamed. I am livid!" Her Royal Voice echoed in the caves causing several ponies to cover their ears. Twilight can only watch in fear. Celestia screams in anger. Discord smiles. 

A sudden bright light shines in the Tree of Harmony's presence. Everyone covers their eyes. Discord gets a tan from the bright lights. When the bright light fades away, Celestia transformed. Her mane has a fiery wave motion, her eyes are pitch black with orange fiery dragon pupils, her royal attire is orange. Everypony is petrified with fear. Twilight Sparkle and her friends back away from Celestia. Luna and Cadance back away as well. Discord tap dances as he's happy. 

"I'm free from another soul-binding agreement!" Discord continues to tap dance. 

"Why is everyone backing away from me..?" Celestia looks at herself in a reflection. She's awestruck from her vision. "DISCORD!"

"I'm right here, Celestia. Also, your soul-binding agreement is uplifted," Discord said. 

"You made one as well, Princess Celestia?!" Twilight shouts shockingly. 

Celestia's anger is getting the better of her. As of right now, she doesn't care. 

"I did. Years ago, before Discord's reign in Equestria. I was younger back then. When Luna and I were ruling together, I noticed that more ponies were worshipping her than I. Everypony stayed up late watching Luna's beautiful sky. The stars, the constellations, the moon, the comets; you name it, it was up there. I found Deal With A Discorded book and made a soul-binding agreement with Discord. My anger, during that time, was spiking out of control. I needed a scapegoat to channel my anger."

Princess Luna is not liking what she's hearing coming from her sister. 

"I made Discord remove most of my uncontrollable anger and plant them inside of my sister Luna."

Princess Luna is in tears. She pants heavily as she sobs. 

"Then, I made Discord put ponies to sleep during Luna's night in a slow process. For years she hasn't known of it until she sensed that everypony now falls asleep during her night. That's when Princess Luna had enough. With my anger, she turned into Nightmare Moon."

Everyone mouths drop. Discord can only give out some tissues for everyone's eyes. Silence reign for a few moments. 

"I tricked the Tree of Harmony and the Elements of Harmony into imprisoning my sister to the moon for a thousand years. I had a vision for how things were going to play out. Now, that vision is long gone."

Princess Luna is horrified and distraught. She no longer calls Celestia her sister. She's a demon. The Tree of Harmony sends a message to Spike telepathically. Spike nods and looks at Luna, waiting.

"Y-Your worse than Chrysalis," Cadance said.		

"You're a monster, Princess Celestia," Twilight said. "Worse than me."

"I don't care what you have to say, I'm still the ruler of Equestria! And by the way, I'm not Princess Celestia anymore, I am Daybreaker!"

"Thou shall suffer a lifetime banishment to the Sun!" Princess Luna said. 

"How are you going to banish me?" Daybreaker mocked. "Discord and I made a side agreement with the D.W.A.D. He can't use his magic after the soul-binding agreement is uplifted."

Discord smile fades. He has forgotten about that part of the agreement.

"Princess Luna!" Spike shouts. Princess Luna looks at Spike momentarily. "Here!" Spike stretches his claw and gives Luna his Equestrian Magic. Spike transforms back into his baby self. The Equestrian Magic she receives enables her to relinquish the Elements from the Tree. Then the Elements of Harmony go to Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare. Luna uses the Element of Magic to ignite the other elements. Daybreaker retreats. She used her magic to teleport herself away from the group before they have a chance to send her straight to the Sun. 

"Darn it!" Luna shouts. 

Spike pants as all of his memories surge back to him. He is reliving the nightmares he endured by the hooves of Twilight and her friends. Spike passes out. Sugarcoat uses her magic to catch Spike and pull him close to her, hugging him.

"Luna, what are we going to do? What is going to happen now?" Cadance asks nervously. 

Princess Luna sighs. "I'm going to step up in my roles as a Princess in Canterlot. As for Daybreaker, we'll find her soon. As for the Elements of Harmony," she says as she looks at Lemon, Indigo, Sugarcoat, Sour, and Sunny; "You keep the Elements. You are the new wielders now. I'll send Spike messages to gather you all when I need you," She looks at Twilight Sparkle and the former wielders. "Twilight, I'll let you keep your title as Princess, however, you cannot see Spike unless you get his approval. You can send him a letter once a month. If Celestia once foresees you like a Princess, then you shall become one," Luna sighs. "Thou needs time to understand the betterment of Friendship. When you understand the true meaning of Friendship, you'll become the Princess of Friendship. Until then, thou should come with me. I need to teach you how to become a better Princess than Daybreaker."

"I understand. Thank you, Luna. I'm sorry for how I manipulated the minds of everyone here. I Pinkie promise to become a better Princess on my quest and not try to cheat my way from getting what I desire. Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye."	

"Thank you, Twilight. Luna," Discord asks. 

"Yes, Discord." 

"If you happen to find the book of D.W.A.D. Please put it away where nopony can use its magic."

"I will, Discord,"

"So, what's going to happen with us?" Applejack asks. 

"Thou former wielders continue with your life. You may visit Canterlot to see Twilight. Twilight, you may visit Ponyville to be with your friends."

"Alright then," Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow said. 

Then the chest starts glowing. It skyrockets out of the cave. Discord tracks the magic power from the chest then teleports everyone to the chest's location. Everyone is at Pony Central as the chest lands in the fields where Sunny Flare lives close by. In a few moments, a castle rises from the ground. 

"Whose castle this belongs to, Luna?" Twilight asks. 

"The new wielders of the Elements," Luna said. 

"Wait, this castle belongs to us?" Sugarcoat asks. 

"Yes. Though technically speaking, the castle was meant for Twilight. With her recent attempts to corrupt a Friendship for her benefit, the Tree of Harmony is giving you five and Spike for being the new defenders of Equestria. In due time, the Castle will go to Twilight, however, she needs to earn the right to wield the Magic Element once more and possibly be friends with you," Luna said. 

"Hey, wait a minute?" Rainbow asks. "Why are we unable to use the Elements anymore? Why can't we use them with you, Luna?"

"The Tree of Harmony detects discrimination towards Spike. I heard everything in Spike's journal entries loud and clear back in Canterlot. I know what all of you have done. Friendship is to co-exist with all life. Not just one-sided species." 

Rainbow Dash and the others are silent. They don't want to talk back with Princess Luna after that statement. 

"Discord."	

"Yes, Luna?"

"Take us back to Ponyville. There is much more to discuss."

"Right away," Discord teleports everyone except for Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, Sunny Flare, and Spike. 

"Let's go back to Zesty Fields and put Spike back in bed. Everything that has happened today has to overwhelm him physically and mentally," Lemon said. 

"Agreed," The girls said in unison. 

On the way back to Zesty Fields, Spike starts having terrible nightmares.
> Talk
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Princess Luna, Twilight, Cadance, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Discord are back in Ponyville. Twilight and her friends are gloomy. No longer wielding the Elements, no longer defenders of Equestria, it's now regular life. They don't know what to do next. Discord is having a fun time dancing to disco fever music. Princess Luna can see the regret and sorrow written in Twilight's face. Being unable to be with Spike and corrupting his Friendship with the new wielders. 

"Twilight Sparkle," Luna said. 

"Yes, Princess Luna?" Twilight said sadly. Her head hung low as she addresses the Princess. 

"Thou shall stay in Ponyville for a week. Spend some time with your friends before your next studies commence."	

"Yes, Princess Luna."

"I shall come for you. Use this week to prepare thyself mentally as well."

"So, can we still be defenders of Equestria?" Rainbow asks. 

"You can be as thee Wonderbolt, Rainbow Dash."

"That'll take years, Princess Luna. Also, is there a chance for my friends and me to reclaim the Elements of Harmony?"

"Nay," Princess shakes her head. "The Elements of Harmony decided you and your friends are not worthy of how you treated Spike. The Elements of Harmony goes to those who are worthy of living up to the name. You, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy brought nothing but Disharmony to Spike. The Elements don't allow those who mistreat another creature poorly."

"We're sorry, Luna." Rainbow and the former wielders said. 

"You should be apologizing to Spike. Maybe, just maybe, the Elements may reconsider. I wouldn't keep your hopes on that, though. The new wielders show promise. Also, the Elements work in mysterious ways."

"So, Luna. We need to discuss the book of D.W.A.D."

"What do you have in mind, Discord?"

"Daybreaker made copies of the book. I don't know how many there are," Discord said as he's holding the one Tirek used. 

"I shall send a battalion to confiscate all books of D.W.A.D. We shall not allow another creature to use the book for Disharmony. It's a weapon against the Elements of Harmony. It takes away certain freedoms you hold dearly."

"Thank you, Princess Luna. You are already starting to become a wiser Princess than Daybreaker."	

"I shall return to Canterlot. I need to inform the Royal Guards of Daybreaker. Then resume my duties as nightfall shall come soon," Princess Luna said as she flaps her wings and flies off to Canterlot. 

"Twilight Sparkle," Cadance said. 

"Yes, Princess Cadance?"		

"I'm going home to the Crystal Empire. I want you to ponder this question; What kind of a Princess do I want to be? When you have answered it, work on achieving it. If you need me, you know where to find me."

"Yes, Princess Cadance," Twilight said. She still has her head down in sadness and guilt. She not only ruined Spike's life in the past, corrupted his Friendship, and screwed her friends out of the Elements of Harmony. Though in hindsight, they played their part in making Spike's life worsen, she could have spoken up when she had the chance.

Princess Cadance trots over to the train station, now waiting for the next train. 

"Girls?" Twilight asks. "Can I sleepover with one of you?"

"Your welcome to come by to the Apple house, Twilight," Applejack said. 

"I have a spare bedroom in my boutique," Rarity said. 

"You can have my bed in my cottage, Twilight. I don't mind sleeping on the couch," Fluttershy said. 

"I have books in my cloudominium," Rainbow said. 

"I'll sleepover at Fluttershy's cottage for the night," Twilight said. "I'll see everypony later." Twilight takes the walk of shame to Fluttershy's cottage.

2 hours later. Princess Luna is back in Canterlot. Raven is asking for Princess Celestia and for the upcoming meetings that approach. Princess Luna tells Raven there's been a change of things. She orders every official for a private meeting of Princess Celestia. After a while, ponies are stunned, horrified, and feared. Princess Celestia. Daybreaker. She's now a threat to all ponies in Equestria. With the new wielders of the Elements, Equestria has its protection. With Princess Luna, wielding the Element of Magic, they know that Princess Luna will step up to fight for Equestria. 

"Raven,"

"Yes, Princess Luna,"

"Any meetings that don't regard our true objectives are immediately terminated. I have no time to wither meaningless meetings over nothingness."

"Yes, Princess Luna. I'll cross out meetings Celestia was about to endure. Anything else, your highness?"

"I'll only accept certain meetings in Canterlot that regard for everyponies well being. Anything else, I won't listen."	

"Very well, Princess Luna. There will be dozens of ponies who will be disappointed."	

"Would they rather complain about meaningless experiments and royalty or cherish their lives and security. If they speak as I am unable to, you ask thee that question."

"Understood, Princess Luna. Straight to the point. Something that Celestia won't do."

Raven and Princess Luna enter the throne room where dozen of ponies are meeting to speak with her. After a while, many ponies left disappointed. Princess Luna discharge many approvals made by Celestia. Several ponies cursed at Princess Luna and wanted Princess Celestia back. Princess Luna stomps her hooves and uses her Royal Voice. 

"Ponies of Canterlot! Princess Celestia is not thy Princess any longer! She has turned her back on all of us! She is more likely to rule all of Equestria with an Iron Hoof. Would you prefer to be free or beg for mercy?!" Ponies in the throne room are disturbed and horrified. They can't believe that Princess Celestia has turned into another Nightmare Moon. "Princess Celestia is known as Daybreaker! She is the cause of my transformation a millennium ago. She bestows her anger in me. Now her anger has returned to her." Ponies are silent and dare not to speak. "Any who curse at me shall see the truth." 

Princess Luna uses her magic and unleashes a memory barrage. Everypony in the throne witness the crucial moments in the Tree of Harmony's presence.  How Twilight and her friends' loss the Elements of Harmony to a new group of ponies and seeing the truth of Princess Celestia now as Daybreaker. Ponies in the throne room have a newfound respect for Princess Luna. They bow in sincerity and respect. Then they leave Princess Luna and head back home. 

"Raven."

"Yes, your highness?"	

"I'm going to Pony Central to check on the new wielders of the Elements. Afterward, I shall return to resume my duties for the evening."

"Of course, Princess. Have a nice day, Princess Luna."	

Princess Luna flies to Pony Central to meet with the new wielders and Spike. She hopes that they can handle the new responsibilities the Elements of Harmony are giving them for all Equestria's sake.
> Nightmares and Reflections
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Spike is sleeping in his bed. He's muttering, shifting, sweating, and perturbing. The nightmares Spike is suffering are all his memories of being used, abused, mocked, left behind, and forgotten. Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare all worried for Spike. He's been like this for the past three days. The girls don't know what they can do. They try waking him up, using spells; even Luna's magic hasn't woken him up or been able to process his dream. Luna suggests to wait it out until Spike wakes up. 

Spike is sleeping on the melting ice block. His friends are laughing at him during Winter Wrap Up. A few moments later, the ice block melts, and Spike is underwater. He struggles to gasp for air as his heart beats rapidly. His body is quickly shivering from the cold water lake. Spike tries to recompose himself as he swims. With luck, Spike manages to get out of the freezing lake. He pants heavily, trying to catch his breath. After catching his breath, he starts sneezing. Spike now realizes that he's got a cold. Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash are still laughing at Spike's mishap. Spike walks home sneezing as Twilight and her friends celebrate success for bringing Spring to Ponyville, on time. Despite Spike having a cold, Twilight made him write a letter to Princess Celestia reporting about her friendship lesson. Spike feels like he would rather die in the lake than endure another day in Ponyville.

Spike is on his way to meet up with the other dragons for the migration. Part of him is fed up with Rainbow Dash's mockery of him. Calling him a lame dragon is rude for a baby dragon. Wanting to know more of himself rather than being infested with other ponies, Spike found a teenage dragon group to hang and learn. Garble and his friends mock Spike for what he is. A dragon with no wings. However, Garble and his cronies made Spike endure different trials of being a dragon. From flame belching to tail wrestling to king of the hoard to cannonball in the lava pit. After doing a belly flop into the lava, he gains the teenage dragons' respect and dubs thee rookie dragon. Then the dragons have a party. Garble tells Spike to stick with him. He and his cronies will teach Spike more about becoming a dragon. For once in his life, Spike feels right at home. He's with his kind. Garble and his friends can be like his big brothers. Not having to worry much about his pony friends, they can wait a while. Garble and his friends take Spike on a raid. He felt uncomfortable about raiding a phoenix's eggs. He went with it anyways. Unbeknown to him, Twilight, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity follow Spike. They save Spike from Garble and his friends. Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Spike hug, however, a cold shoulder crept on Spike. His pony friends are no better than the dragons. They mocked, teased, inflicted pain, and laughed at him. How dare his pony friends having the audacity of calling the dragons horrid creatures when they were horrid to him. Spike vows to be kind and treated the baby phoenix better than his friends treats him. Spike can feel that without his presence, they would drag him back home. They needed their butler back home and would not allow him to be with his kind any longer.

Spike is left alone as Twilight leaves him for her activities. He's crying knowing that no one would help or comfort him. He begs and pleas for anyone to give him company. No one shows up. When Twilight comes back, she often hits Spike when he says something wrong or embarrasses Twilight in front of ponies. He often gets whack in the head or lands on the ground hard. Every day, he would get hit hard, used as a test subject, used as a pincushion, and for sporting. He wishes to be treated better like a pony and not lower in their standings.  

Lemon Zest and her friends can see Spike enduring every emotional and physical trauma in his sleep. Sudden bruises popping on Spike's body then heals rapidly. It's horrifying to watch. It's like watching a horror film documentary without the film. Spike levitates in his sleep which is disturbing to everyone. They realize what it meant. Spike is experiencing the moment his memories wiped clean thanks to Twilight and her soul-binding agreement with the book of D.W.A.D. 

"Oh boy, he's going through the last stretch of his memories," Lemon said nervously. 

"Yea," Indigo said. "The last few days has been brutal to watch," 

"I just want to hug Spike when he wakes up," Sunny said sincerely. 

"I want to make him happy," Sugarcoat said. 

"I want to give him something good to eat. The Pudding Family is making all sorts of treats for when Spike wakes up," Sour said sadly. 

"I want Spike to wake up! Enough is enough with the suffering!" Lemon said with tears stream down her face. 

Lemon and her friends continue to watch the final stretch of Spike's dreams. After an hour, Spike finally wakes up. He groans from exhaustion. 

"Finally! He's awake!" The girls said in unison. 

They group hug Spike. Spike's memories are back. Spike can see the faces of relief from his friends. They smile lovingly at him. 

"So, what happened while I was...asleep?"

"So much has happened while you were reliving your past, Spike," Sour said. 

"Yea, we saw how your body changed differently. Your body bruised, healed, levitated, tear flow, and much more," Sunny said. 

"Also, we never knew exactly what Twilight Sparkle and her friends had inflicted on you. Now we know from your movements in your sleep," Sugarcoat states.

"Wow, sorry that I had you all worry so much of me,"

"No need to apologize, Spike," Lemon said. 

"Yea, we understand. We're your family after all," Indigo said as she smiles proudly. 

"We care about you, Spike. You are our friend," Sunny said. 

"Plus, we have a new responsibility for all of Equestria. We want you included with what we do," Sugarcoat said. 

"If you want to," Sour said. 

"Of course I do. I want to create memories with you all. I want to live a happy life."

"Now, I have to ask you something, Spike," Lemon said. "Will you someday forgive Twilight and her friends?"

"I don't think I will. Twilight and her friends trespassed and assaulted you all. She threatened to take me away and erase my mind. She made a deal with the devil. She manipulated Princess Luna's mind to force me to give up my life here in Pony Central. She corrupted my friendship! They used me over and over like I'm a slave! I hope they all go to Tartarus!" Spike breaks down. "How can I forgive a monster who is worse than Daybreaker?" Tears stream down on Spike's face. "How can I forgive those who used me, abused me, and left me behind? How can I forgive those who cause me to suffer physical and emotional trauma?! That's like saying giving Daybreaker a chance to reform! I hate them! I'll never forgive them for the years of suffering I engulf by the hooves of those tyrants! They should be encased in stone!" Spike pants angrily and heavily.

The girls expected this kind of answer from Spike and they were a bit frighten by his response. They needed to hear what he says from his heart. The girls will report to Luna about Spike's decision. During Spike's memory dream, Princess Luna came by to check on things. She asks the girls to question Spike about his former friends and Twilight. If he doesn't deem them any worth apologizing then, Luna knows what to do for Twilight's redemption road. Twilight Sparkle won't be having the castle in Pony Central. She'll have to stay in Canterlot. Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare pulls Spike in another group hug. Then they leave the bedroom. They have something special in store for Spike, tonight.
> Letters
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare is leading Spike to Zesty Barn house. Spike can't wait to see the surprise he's in store. He sees a quill and paper. 

"Hey, girls. Mind waiting a few moments. I need to write a letter to Princess Luna."

"Sure, Spike," Lemon said. "I'll wait for you outside while the girls head to the Zesty Barn house."	

"Sounds good. Thanks," Spike said. He grabs a quill and paper and starts writing. 

Dear Princess Luna,

My dreams of torment have come to an end. I don't think I can ever forgive Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Applejack. I can forgive Fluttershy. She hasn't done much damage to me now that I think about it. I did overreact towards her the other night. Especially when I gave her my death glare in anger. Twilight Sparkle and the rest I mentioned, I don't think I can forgive them. They have serious issues that need to be addressed. I do hope you can find a way to set them straight, Princess Luna. Twilight Sparkle and the others have caused so much physical and emotional trauma. That is hard to forgive. Every day its either I get hit, whack, and hurt or I'm left behind. I did offer my services to help, now that I think about it, they took advantage of me. Another reason why I am unable to forgive Twilight and her friends. I know my flaws when I see it. I succumb to Rarity's genuine beauty to help her more. I've told my friends that I'll never forgive them. However, I think with much needed time and recovery, I'll find it in my heart to forgive to move on. For now, I need my friends. I need them to help me grow. Become someone I want to be. Not be a slave or an assistant with no benefits. I want to be a happy dragon. I'll continue to write to you from time to time, Princess Luna. 

Yours Truly,

Spike the Dragon

Spike finished writing his letter to Princess Luna. He uses his fire breath to mail the letter to Princess Luna. 

In a few moments, Princess Luna receives her first letter from Spike. After a few minutes of reading, she starts writing her letter. 

Dear Spike, 

I do have plans in store for Twilight and her friends. I am glad to know you are forgiving Fluttershy. When Princess Celestia read your journal out loud, Fluttershy's name wasn't mentioned as much despite having her fill with neglecting you. It takes time to forgive. I'm not sure if I'll ever forgive my sister. Perhaps in time, I can if she decides to turn things around for the better. As for Twilight Sparkle, I am aware of her OCD technicalities, unlike Princess Celestia. I shall prepare an assignment for Twilight and how she shall overcome her OCD as the next ruler of Equestria. Thou shall wait upon further inspection of Twilight's performance in the future. As for the former wielders of the Elements of Harmony, I shall put them on a redemption path to better themselves for the sake of Friendship. I shall come in contact with you from time to time. I shall visit you as well. With my newer duties as Ruler of Equestria, I'll be keeping track of Daybreaker and her activities. If you and your new friends locate Daybreaker, contact me, and we'll confront her together. 

Sincerely, 

Princess Luna

Princess Luna finished writing her letter then mails it to Spike. She looks up at the sky. She uses her magic to lower down the sun then uses her magic to raise the moon. 

"A wonderful night," Princess Luna states. "I shall commence my nightly duties," Princess Luna enters the dream realm to help anypony with their nightmares. 

Spike receives a letter from Princess Luna. After a few moments of reading, he decides to tell his friends what Luna wrote to him. They should know what's going on. Spike meets up with Lemon Zest outside. He hands her the letter for her to read. 

"Well, Spike. It's up to you to forgive or forget. I'll support your decisions. I do hope Princess Twilight does set herself right, for the betterment of all of Equestria," Lemon said. "Now, its time to take you to the barn house," Lemon said as she escorts Spike to the barn house.
> Return to Ragna Rock
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Princess Luna is trotting down the corridors with the book of D.W.A.D. She notices Discord's presence from the walls. 

"Good evening, Discord. How are thee, tonight?"

"I'm good, Princess Luna. I notice you wield the book of D.W.A.D. You're not going to use it, right?" Discord questions with a level of concern. He comes out of the walls. 

"Nay. This book has no value to me. I'm honoring your wish by collecting these copies and locking them away until the end of time."

"Thank you, Princess Luna," Discord sighs in relief. 

"My pleasure. After Daybreaker confessed, I have to be a better Princess for all of Equestria. I made a vow, never use the book unless it's critical.  Only I should use the power of the D.W.A.D. No pony else. It's hard to locate other copies due to the book's magic."

"I know a place where it has a copy of the book. You're not going to like it," Discord said. 

"Oh? Where would it be?"

"Uh," Discord swallows his vomit a little. "Ragna Rock."

Princess Luna blinks and enters a trance. She remembers the last time she's been to Ragna Rock.

1010 years ago

Princess Luna is wearing a dark hooded cloak. She puts on a ring of illusion on her horn to disguise herself as a unicorn. As she enters Ragna Rock, she sought out a dark entity known as Grim. Grim's dark magic can predict the future and sense what's happening in the present.

"Hmm," Grim chuckles. "I know who you are, Luna. The ring of illusion is a nice disguise."

Princess Luna remains silent. 

"So, what brings you here to Ragna Rock?" Grim said as she drinks a glass of black wine. 

"As of late, my fellow ponies are sleeping during my night. Normally, I have my fellow followers worshipping my great night. Now, they shun my night sky. I seek your knowledge of why they shun my night."		

Grim smiles then drink her glass of black wine.

"That's simple. Ponies of Equestria are slowly descending due to the new magic that filters the sky during your night." 

"What new magic?" Princess Luna asks shockingly.

"I can't say per se, the new magic that filters the sky will allow most ponies except you and your security to succumb to slumber during the night. It's been growing slowly over a few years. Soon, the night will be peaceful though no one will be able to worship it anymore."

Princess Luna pants irately. She feels something stirring deep inside of her. Only her pupils change into a sinister blueish dragon type. She stares at grim.

"What can I do to fix this?!" Luna yells angrily.

"Hmm," Grim smiles then finish drinking the rest of her black wine. "Take over as the new ruler of Equestria."

"When do I take over as new ruler of Equestria?" Luna asks. 

"One thousand ten years from today, Luna."

"Thou think I'll wait for a millennium to become the new ruler of Equestria? I shall take what's rightfully mine!" Luna stomps her way out of Ragna Rock and flies towards the Castle of the Two Sisters. 	

Present time

Princess Luna snaps out of her trance. 

"You okay, Princess Luna?"

"I'm fine. I went on a memory trip from the last time I step hoof in Ragna Rock."

"What was the memory of; if you don't mind me asking?"

"In Ragna Rock. I went to an earth pony named Grim. She has the power to sense what goes on in the present and see the future. I ask of her about my fellow worshippers falling asleep during my night. Grim told me there was magic filtering the skies. Turning my nighttime worshippers succumb to sleep. Instead of waiting it out, I turn into Nightmare Moon and try to claim what was rightfully mine. Ever since Daybreaker spoke the truth, I now know what has happened to my fellow worshippers."

"So sorry, Luna. Well, least now you have what is rightfully yours," Discord said sincerely.

"Though it's true, at the cost of losing my sister to darkness. Her darkness. She used me, turn me into a monster, and imprisoned me; I'll never forgive her." Luna said sternly. 

"I understand. It was my magic that Grim was sensing. It was part of Celestia's soul-binding agreement."

"Since the book is at Ragna Rock, do you know exactly where the book is at?"	

"No. Also, I haven't stepped foot in Ragna Rock in over a thousand years. All I know is that the book is there. What are you going to do once you get the book?"

"After I confiscate the book, I'll condemn Ragna Rock. That place is not ideal for my kingdom."

"When the time does come to condemn Ragna Rock, I'll join you."

"Sounds good. I'll let you know when," Luna puts on a dark hooded cloak. "Discord, can you put this copy in the safe for me?"

"Sure, I'm closer to it anyway. Have a safe trip to Ragna Rock," Discord waves at Luna as she flies to Manehattan. 

2 hours later. Princess Luna arrives in Manehattan. She puts on the ring of illusion on her horn and calls for a cab. She orders the taxi driver to take her to Ragna Rock. He complies and drives Luna to Ragna Rock. Once Luna arrives, she gazes at the building. She pays the taxi driver extra as she heads inside Ragna Rock.

"Still the same wretched place," Luna said in her mind. 

Inside Ragna Rock, hot air is around like an invisible wall thick with incense. The aroma has a disturbing sweet smell that'll make ordinary ponies gag. Luna can smell all sorts of demonic activity that'll give Tartarus a run for its money. It's still the same from the last time she visited. Luna trots for Ragna Rock's inner sanctum library. It's the first place that comes to mind about the book's location. 

"The library should be somewhere on the upper floors," Luna said to herself. She walks up the stairs. 

Princess Luna hears enchantments going around, cults talking with each other, ponies making agreements. It's the same as it was when she came. Nothing has changed. 

"The flesh of fallen angels! Come to me all! Beelzebub, Asmodeus, Baphomet, Lucifer, Loki, Cthulu, Lilith, Hela. Blood to you all!" A cult stallion chants out loud.

"Who the hay is that?!" Luna frighteningly shouts a bit as she bumps into a white stallion with a black top mane wearing a leather coat and white shirt. His badge drops to the floor. Luna uses her magic to levitate the stallion's badge. "My apologies..." Luna reads the badge's name. "Detective Max Payne."

"Hmm, since you know my name, what is yours?"

"Princess Luna. Don't tell anyone."

"I understand."

"Are you by any chance going after that nuisance who's chanting demonic names?"

"Yes, Princess. It leads to the case I'm in."

"Carry on, Detective Payne. Also, do you know where the library is?"

"Two floors down to my right."

"Thank you, Detective Payne. I'll be on my way," Princess Luna and Detective Max Payne go their separate ways. 

After 20 minutes of going downstairs, Luna enters an inner sanctum library. She searches for the book of D.W.A.D. After an hour of searching, Luna found the book of D.W.A.D. She also hears screams from a cult of ponies getting torn apart. 

"Well, Detective Payne does know how to start a party up there," Princess Luna leaves the library and bumps into Grim. Grim smiles. 

"I should have seen that coming." 

"Hello, Grim."		

"Hello, Luna. Got what you wanted?"

"Yes. This book will be locked away."

"Until the lands of Equestria enter a frenetic side by Daybreaker."

"What thou mean by that?"

Grim chuckles sinisterly, "Daybreaker will come with a legion to desecrate all of Equestrian life. Then start a new with those she seems fitting for her new empire."

"...When?" Luna said emotionlessly.

"Hmm, in two years or so. Could be sooner. Could be later. Daybreaker is unpredictable. Even I have my limits."

"How long until I condemn Ragna Rock?"

"Quite soon. It'll ruin Daybreaker's plan. She plans on using the book of D.W.A.D."

"What she wants with Discord?"

"Her request is to turn Twilight Sparkle. Then have her under her wing. Her new transformation name will be Midnight Sparkle. That's what Daybreaker wants. A counter against Friendship. Then she'll use Discord to create the Elements of Disharmony to give it to the former wielders so they can go against Spike's new friends. Gotta say this is a brilliant plan she orchestrated."

Princess Luna is wrapped up with a bunch of emotions. Anger, hatred, disgust, sad, and fear. Luna pants heavily. Not sure what she can do or how to prepare for the time being. Grim chuckles as she drinks a glass of black wine.

"How do I stop this from happening?"

"Hmph," Grim looks at Luna. "You'll need friends to help you. I can't tell you everything because the future is unpredictable. Your actions will change the course of time. You can come back to Ragna Rock to find me. If you choose to bury Ragna Rock, I'll be by the caves near a town full of equalist ponies," Grim said as she looks at Luna with a devilish smile. 

"Thank you, Grim. I shall return soon to desolate Ragna Rock," Luna said as she walks five flights down to exit Ragna Rock then she flies back to Canterlot.

"Of course you will. I better pack my things," Grim takes several books, her favorite wine, and leaves Ragna Rock.

One hour later. Princess Luna arrives back in Canterlot. She trots down the corridors. She opens a hidden door leading to a secretive library only she and Discord knows. Luna places the copy with all the others in a chaotic magical barrier safe. No creature cannot access the safe unless its Discord or Luna. 

"Only a few more to go. Then I can condemn Ragna Rock," Luna said. She walks out of the secretive library. Discord is waiting for her outside while no pony is patrolling around the area. 

"Nice work, Princess Luna. Only four more to go."

"There's four more left? I thought it'd be a little more than that."

"No. I've been keeping count. The next book is harder to get."

"Why thou say that?"

"The copy of D.W.A.D has turned into a relic. A powerful relic that can strip anypony of their Cutie Mark."

"What?!" Princess Luna shouted. Eyes widen in shock and horror. 

"Well, there is a downside."

"Explain, Discord," Luna said as she calms herself down.

"If the relic gets destroyed, the copy of the book is destroyed as well. A win-win scenario."

Princess Luna sighs in relief. "Thou know where the relic is?"

"Unfortunately, no. When the book of D.W.A.D, is altered, the magic is,"

"Altered as well," Luna finished Discord's sentence.

"Exactly. I have no idea where it is. We have to be lucky to find it. Even my chaos magic cannot sense it."

"Alright," Luna yawns. "I had a long night. I'm going to bed."

"Want me to handle your dream shift for the night?"

"Sure. I could use a night off anyway," Princess Luna trots to her room as Discord takes Luna's tasks of entering dreams and eliminating the nightmares.
> Twilight's Situation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight Sparkle is in Fluttershy's room. She's isolating herself from her friends and Fluttershy's animals. For days now, Twilight rethinks her decisions on who she wants to be. Cadance's question still lingers in her mind; What kind of a Princess do I want to be? Twilight gazes at Luna's moon. Spike is on her mind, the Elements of Harmony, the Tree of Harmony, her friends, Princess Celestia, and Daybreaker. Her flaws, her mistakes are clouding her mind. She corrupted a friendship, got disowned by the Elements, exposed, and cause Princess Celestia to go insane. Twilight doesn't know what she can do to improve. With everything against her, she's afraid of messing up. 

"What kind of a Princess do I want to be?" Twilight ponders that question. It's one she can't answer right away. Her decisions, her actions will reflect on the type of Princess she'll become. Twilight continues to look at the night sky for answers. "I'm not ready to answer that question, Cadance."

Fluttershy overhears Twilight talking to herself from the living room. She can't help but feel saddened by everything that has happened since Spike ran away. Fluttershy goes to the kitchen to brew some tea. She places a cup and puts a plate of cookies on a tray. She takes it upstairs and knocks on the bedroom door. 

"...Twilight. I have tea and cookies. ...Please open up..."

Twilight opens the door, takes the tray, and closes the door. Still, wanting to be left alone. Twilight uses her magic to levitate a quill and paper to write out her thoughts. 

What kind of Princess do I want to be?

I want to be a better Princess than Celestia. I want to be a humble Princess than I used to be. Making better decisions, learning more of Friendship, learn from my mistakes, learn to let go.

Twilight enters a trance after writing her thought. Can she let go of Spike? Twilight remembers the first few weeks of taking care of Spike. She loved him and took care of him throughout the years. She questions what she did wrong until a sharp, grueling feeling strikes her heart. It was Princess Celestia's teachings that made her focus more than Spike. Learning about Friendship and reporting to Celestia was her number one objective. Learning magic was second. Helping friends was third. Then she realizes her flaw.

"I've completed my goal as a student. I failed as a parent. Instead of being there for Spike, I used him instead of raising him. I made him feel worthless. Nothing more than a tool to help me around the library. I left him behind while I had fun with my friends. I now see the error of my ways and not out of anger or sadness. I fully understand why you wanted to leave, Spike. You have every right to do so. I could have told the girls to lighten up on you. I should have saved you from the melting ice block or told the girls to get you. I put my goals and myself over you, Spike. I should have put you first. You are a baby dragon after all," 

Twilight is using her magic to show an image of Spike and talks to it. Fluttershy couldn't help herself. She's eavesdropping Twilight's conversation to herself. Fluttershy decides tomorrow, she and the girls will have friends meeting to decide what to do next and how to help Twilight cope with the loss of Spike better. Hopefully, this'll help Twilight not go into insanity. 

"Oh, Spike. I promise to be a better mother to you when you do allow me to be part of your life once more. I promise to put you first; everything else will be second. I'll be a better Princess than Celestia was during her reign. I'll learn from Luna and have discipline with my actions," Twilight imagines Spike asking her what kind of Princess she wants to be. "I'll be a Princess that values Friendships and values the well being of everyone. Take action rather than having someone else fight for my battles, unlike a former Princess I know of," Twilight said. She starts to shake a bit for her continuation to mention, Princess Celestia. Losing herself a bit. "I'll eradicate Daybreaker for what she's done and about to accomplish! Live with Spike at the Castle in Pony Central! I'll be anew with Spike's new friends!" Twilight starts laughing maniacally. 

After a while of her laughter, Twilight starts noticing her behavior. If she doesn't control herself, she might as well become Daybreaker's accomplice. She doesn't know what's wrong with her or why she's behaving like this. Twilight then looks at the night sky.  She starts writing a letter for Fluttershy and flies to Canterlot. 

An hour later. Twilight Sparkle lands in front of Luna's balcony. Princess Luna stares in front of Twilight as she was about to observe Canterlot during the night. 

"Hello, Twilight."

"Hello, Princess Luna."

"What troubles you, Twilight Sparkle?"

"I need your assistance. I need your help to better discipline myself. I feel that I'm starting to lose myself into insanity."

"Explain," Luna said calmly.

Twilight Sparkle talks about her anxiety and her frustrations getting the better of her. Talked about her emotions thrives her to do unnecessary boundaries. Always trying to make sure everything is perfect and organized. She mentions her body twitching when things don't go her way or when she starts going stir crazy. Twilight told Luna about imaging Spike using her magic to talk to him. Twilight talks about answering Cadance's question by jotting her thoughts on paper. Princess Luna acknowledges Twilight's situation. 

"Princess Twilight Sparkle. I command thee to sleep. You are under heavy stress. I'll evaluate your symptoms as a Princess for you to overcome in the next few months."

"Thank you, Princess Luna," Twilight bows and trots to Princess Celestia's room. It'll be her room for now on. Princess Luna removed all of Celestia's belongings earlier in the week. 

"Seems Twilight has more than an OCD problem. Her frantic behavior could be an extension of Daybreaker's mind manipulation. Perhaps a different way that Grim hasn't told me. I'll have to examine her thoroughly. Also, I have to narrow down my plans to help Twilight become a successful Princess. One that doesn't sit back and watch everypony else work. Can't have a lazy Princess ruling all of Equestria again." Princess Luna looks at her night sky. "I wonder what you are doing tonight, Spike? I'll come by and visit you and your friends soon. I have important matters to attend to starting tomorrow morning."

20 minutes later. At Fluttershy's cottage, Fluttershy knocks on the bedroom door. 

"...Uh, Twilight? ...I need to talk to you for a few moments," Fluttershy asks. "I'm taking your silence as a yes," Fluttershy comes in and sees her bedroom. Twilight is not in sight. A note is, though. Fluttershy starts reading.

"Dear Fluttershy,

I decided to go to Canterlot early than expected. I need Princess Luna's guidance to answer Cadance's question. I ought to answer myself. I cannot. I'm in dire need to seek Luna's guidance on how to better myself as a future ruler of Equestria and to better myself for the sake of Friendship. I'll come by and see you and the girls in a few weeks. 

Your Friend, 

Princess Twilight Sparkle.

P.S. Thanks for letting me stay with you for the past few days. I needed it."

Fluttershy finished reading the note. She understands Twilight's decision and wishes her for the best. She hopes that Twilight will get the help she needs.
> Cadance Reads Spike's Friend
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Princess Cadance trots down the corridors of the Crystal Castle to her room. Another day in the Crystal Empire as usual. Cadance looks at a book that caught her eye. 

"That's the book Shining brought over from the Golden Oak Library," Cadance examines the book. "Spike's Friend?"

Shining Armor walks into the room. He sees Cadance observing the book.

"Read it if you want to understand the trauma Spike went through," Shining said calmly.

"You've read it?" Cadance asks curiously. 

Yes," Shining admitting to Cadance's question. "I now see Twilight differently. The way she was handling Spike is wrong on so many levels." It makes me question how somepony or he hasn't called the CPS."

"What would you've done, Shining?"

"If Spike were to tell me everything he's been through, I would have taken him away from Twilight. Teach Twilight responsibility for how to raise a child. You can't leave him or use him up like a puppet."

"Interesting. I'll start reading the journal. You take a watch for the evening. I don't want to be disturbed."

"Understood my love," Shining said as he leaves the room. 

Cadance starts reading Spike's Friend. The first entry is about Spike missing out on fun parties and having to hear Twilight brag about it while having to write Princess Celestia about her studies. Next entry is about Spike missing the Sonic Rainboom and have to clean up a mess. The next one shook Cadance a bit. 

"Twilight, what the hay were you thinking? Spike could have died in that freezing water," Cadance said as she finished reading Spike's near-death experience. "I can't believe that she nor her friends would try to save him instead of laughing at him. It's unreal."

The next journal entry reveals Spike's loneliness during the Grand Galloping Gala. Cadance sheds a few tears, understanding the life of being ditched and left behind. 

"Hey, wait. What's this?" Cadance used her magic and unfolded a page in the journal. "The day Twilight found someone else?" Cadance starts reading the journal entry thoroughly. 

Dear Journal,

Twilight Sparkle has a new assistant. Owlicious. At first, I didn't like the fact the Owlicious would be helping me with my chores. During that time, I was a bit territorial. I believe that Twilight got Owlicious to replace me. He was getting things for her, doing my work, and Twilight hasn't asked how I feel. For a while due to my mistake the other night, I was wrapped up in guilt because I burnt a book when I sneezed then lie to Twilight about the book's disappearance. When she found out, I felt nothing but shame. That was my fault for not owning up to my mistake. When Twilight told me that Owlicious found the book, I believe that he set me up, so I wanted payback. That was another mistake I made. When Twilight told me that I'm not the Spike she knows and loves, I knew from right then and there she doesn't love me anymore. I decided to pack the essentials and run away. When I ran away from home, I felt like Twilight should have talked to me about how I was feeling. I'm only a child. Twilight treated and handled the situation like I'm an adult. I found a cave, nearly got killed by another dragon, Twilight saves me, and finally admits her mistake. She should have been sensitive instead of strict. I did apologize for my actions. Things were getting better until Twilight started asking me for more than Owlicious. It was the turning point of my responsibilities piling up. I work, clean, cook, and care while she gets to have fun with her friends. She doesn't ask Owlicious for help anymore. She asks him to come out for pet playdates or to keep her company as she reads. At first, I didn't like it. Now, I miss having Owlicious helping around. I am getting tired of my new routine. I do hope everything gets better from here. 

Cadance has more sympathy for Spike than ever before. Cadance continues to read more journal entries. Tears stream down Cadance's face as she reads the sadistic entries of Spike's suffering. She's enraged with Twilight allowing her friends to use Spike as a tool and how Twilight would hit Spike in public and in front of her friends. Cadance now understands why Spike feels like he's a slave to Twilight and her friends. He was one before he ran a second time. Cadance puts the book away. She doesn't want to read any more of it. 

"Twilight and her friends have some serious problems," Cadance said emotionlessly. "I'll be glad to show them a piece of my mind."

Shining Armor comes in the room. He's a bit tired for the night. 

"Hi, love," Shining said. "How are you holding up?"	

"Spike suffered a lot, Shining."

"I know."

"I'm going to visit Spike in Pony Central tomorrow."

"Understood. I'll visit Princess Luna. We need to talk about Daybreaker and how to handle Equestria's new defenders."

"Have you read the page that was folded up?"

"Yes. In hindsight, Spike acknowledges his mistakes, however, Twilight chose to handle things differently. I can't believe Twilight would be that strict with Spike over a little white lie. She confronted Spike's little white lie as a federal crime. Then again, I want to hear her side of that story."

Silence reigns in the room. Cadance and Shining yawn from exhaustion. 

"Let's continue this chat in the morning, love," Shining said. 

"Sure, I need a good sleep." 

Shining Armor and Cadance fall asleep together in their room.
> A Welcome Party
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lemon Zest escorts Spike to the Zesty Barn house. Inside the barn is a bunch of ponies greeting Spike. Spike is overwhelmed with happiness from seeing different ponies and creatures. His surprise is a welcoming party set up by all of Pony Central. 

"Welcome to our lovely town, Spike the Dragon. While you were in a deep sleep recovering your memories, Lemon Zest and her friends told me a lot about you and the tough times you've endured. We want to show you some appreciating about choosing our town as your new home. My name is Mayor Abacus Cinch. I would condemn your friends for the way they've treated you back in Ponyville. No creature should ever suffer the way you have. However, here in Pony Central, we do not condemn those who wrong us. We move and find a better place to be. That is why Pony Central exists."

"Uh, thanks, Mayor Cinch," Spike said with a nervous chuckle. 

"Anyway, here in Pony Central, all creatures are welcome to visit or stay. I am glad to know you'll be the first dragon to live among us. It's an honor. If there is anything you need, Spike the Dragon, I'm sure I can help you any way I can."

"Thank you, Mayor Cinch."

"My pleasure," Mayor Cinch said as she trots over to the punch bowl.

"Hey, Spike!" Star Bolt shouts. "Come meet some of the weather team's best fliers."

Spike walks over Star Bolt. 

"Here we have our Captain, Sunny Flare, but you already met her. Second in command is my son, Thunder Bolt. The blue mohawk mane with the green fur coat."

"What's up, Dragon dude," Thunder Bolt said. "Hoof bump," He and Spike do a hoof bump. 

"Next Spike, we have our gothic weather pony who doesn't mind the night skies, her name is Raven Nightwalker," Star Bolt points his hoof to a dark gray pegasus wearing a purple hoodie. She walks up to Spike. 

"Welcome to Pony Central. I'm Captain of the night shift weather team," Raven said calmly. 

"Nice to meet you, Raven. Hope we can be friends," Spike said. 

"Sure. If you can't sleep and want to hang out, I'm by the Weather Command Station or at the Pine Tree Library's basement for nighttime readers." 	

"What do you read, Raven?" 

"Dark stories," Raven said emotionlessly.

"You okay, Raven?" Spike asks nervously. 

"I'm fine. I'm normally like this at parties. I'm a different pony when there are few of us."

"Alright then," Spike said. 

"Spike," Star Bolt calls out. "I have a few more to introduce you, too."

Spike walks up to Star Bolt. 

"This is Maiden of the Skies, Captain of the Shadowbolts. Dashing Bullet."

Dashing Bullet is a silver pegasus with a black mane. She has two scars on both her eyes and several scars on her limbs. 

"Hello, Spike. Nice to meet you," Dashing said. She smiles as she reaches out for a hoof shake. 

"Hi, Dashing Bullet," Spike shakes her hoof. "It's an honor to meet a Captain of the Shadowbolts."

"Thank you. I hope you enjoy your stay here in Pony Central for many years to come."

"I will thank you."

"You're welcome, Spike."

Star Bolt shows Spike more of the weather team and some of the Shadowbolts. All eager to meet the baby dragon. The weather team and Shadowbolts are definitely on Spike's friend list.

"Hey, Spike!" Indigo shouts.  

"Hey, Indigo. What's up?"

"I see you've met some of the Shadowbolts' best fliers."

"Yea, Star Bolt introduce me to a few fliers. Each of them telling me a little bit of themselves. I think you'll join them in a year."

"I don't know about that, Spike. I need to humble myself first. I'm too prideful to join, plus, my ego is a burden. I can get carried away when my emotions are wild up." 

"Really? How so?"

"A few nights ago, when Twilight Sparkle and her friends tried to take you away from us, I wanted to break their necks for all the times they caused you harm. Sometimes, my anger gets the better of me, which is why I popped Rainbow's wing with my teeth. I was willing to do anything necessary to keep you from their clutches," Indigo sighs. 

"Thank you for what you were doing that night, Indigo."

"You're welcome, Spike." 

"Hey, Spike!" Sour shouts. "Come meet the Pudding Family."	

Spike walks up to Sour. He sees a brown stallion with a white mane.

"Ah, you must be Spike the Dragon. My name is Chocolate Pudding. It's nice to meet you."

A grayish-black mare with a white mane walks up to Spike. 

"I'm his wife, Truffles Pudding. Nice to meet you as well."

"Nice to meet the two of you," Spike said. He shakes both their hooves. "The ice cream pancake and cotton candy cinnamon-flavored cake were superb the other day Mr. Pudding."

"Thank you, Spike."

"You're welcome. Also, Sour mentioned that you and the Cake family are rivals. Is that true?"

"Yes. Carrot Cake and I have been at each other with a dessert war for ages."

"I have to say, your dessert from what I've tasted has been better than his."

"Hah! An eye witness! I'll have to tell the Cake family that the Pudding family is thriving better! Wahoo!" Chocolate Pudding runs around the party. 

"Oh, don't mind him. He's always hyperactive when he feels he's winning. Believe me, when I say this, I wish the two didn't have this dessert feud."

"I can think of something worse than that, Truffles."

"How so, Spike?"

"If Pinkie Pie and Sour go at each other in a bake-off with their respecting dessert family."

"Huh, you got me there."

"I believe I can outbake Pinkie Pie if we were to have a bake-off," Sour said. 

"I'll pay bits to see that!" Indigo shouts. 

"Me, too," Lemon said. 

"Maybe on November 3rd at the Crystal Empire," Spike said. 

"That's right, the bake-off challenge at the Crystal Empire," Truffles said. 

"Yea, so what have you and Mr. Pudding have planned for the bake-off?" Spike asks. 

"Well, I can't tell you. Chocolate Pudding is developing a new recipe for the occasion. I would hate to ruin the surprise," Truffles said. 

"Aww," Spike and Sour said.

Spike wanders around the barn meeting other ponies and some griffons that live in Pony Central. 

"So, how many griffons live here in Pony Central?" Spike asks. 

"There's ten of us living in Pony Central. We mostly live near the fields," Hydros said. 

"Yea, we live next to the Dogs," Aura said. 

"Cool. What other creatures do you see in Pony Central?" Spike asks curiously. 

"Mostly, we see Dogs. Sometimes Dragons but they only come by for a visit. Mostly food or gems. You'll be the first Dragon to live among us," Hydros said.

"Wow. Now I'm more honored than I was earlier."

"You should be," Jaybird said. "Also, if you want to hang with us, come by to the fields. Us griffons are normally there when we aren't shopping."

Spike wanders around the barn, meeting with other griffons, dogs, and ponies of all kinds. After a while of talking, Mayor Cinch flies up to shout for everyone's attention. 

"Ladies and gentlemen of all creatures, please be seated." Everyone sits near a long table. "Spike, sit here. On the throne," Spike sits now facing everyone sitting by. "As a tradition, Spike, the new resident gets to give a speech."

"On what exactly?"

"Well, what comes to your mind, Spike. Most ponies and creatures that decide to live among us have their reasonings for leaving. We would like to know your thoughts for leaving your home, about choosing Pony Central as your new home, and how we can improve your stay here. Pony Central is founded by trusting each other as a family. My priority on the citizens of Pony Central is to ensure they feel at home and how I can prevent a repeat of history in their lives."

"Alright, then. Sounds easy enough," Spike coughs a little and steady his thoughts. After a few moments, he spoke. "My home before running away was Ponyville. I used to live with Twilight Sparkle before and after she becomes a Princess. I helped her, cared for her, and work for her at home. She often used me as a slave and calls me her friend. I suffered a lot of physical and emotional trauma. I don't want to go into much detail because I want to move on. I ran away from home to have a better life. I took the train from Ponyville to here. I didn't even know what here is until I met Lemon Zest. She told me and showed me around. That's when I met my new friends. Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare. If you want to know more about my troubling past, you can ask them. I've told them enough to tell anyone else. I want Pony Central to be my home because of how I'm being treated compared to Ponyville. Here, I'm just like everyone else. There, I'm a slave. I want to make more friends here in Pony Central, someday work for a living, and raise a first-ever dragon family in Pony Central. I don't think there is much for everyone here to improve my stay. I have friends who are now my family. I have a bright future here in Pony Central. The only thing I ask is no more abuse and treated as a slave."

Everyone chatted with each other and nods in agreement. 

"Spike," Mayor Cinch said. "We will not abuse or use you in any way you see unfitting."

"Thank you, Mayor Cinch. Thank you, everyone, for understanding," Spike yawns as he's getting sleepy.

"I'll take Spike inside," Lemon said. 

"Alright, every creature. Please help clean up the barn as Lemon Zest takes our new resident to bed," Mayor Cinch asks. 

Every creature in the barn cleans up. After a while, everyone heads home. Mayor Cinch writes a document of Spike now being a resident of Pony Central. The first dragon to become an official citizen of Pony Central. As Mayor Cinch leaves Zesty Fields, Lemon Zest is walking upstairs towards the bedrooms. Lemon Zest puts Spike in bed. 

"Good night, Spike."

"Good night, Lemon. I'll see you tomorrow morning."

Lemon Zest leaves the bedroom and closes the door. She trots to her bedroom. Then she looks at the calendar. 

"Tomorrow, Spike will be bunking with Indigo. Hope he has a fun week with her," Lemon said now drifting to sleep.
> Dies Irae
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Daybreaker soars through the skies. The warmth of the sun, the burning passion of rage filling in her heart. As Daybreaker opens her eyes to glare at the sun before it's lowered down, an idea struck her. She started chanting Dies Irae. After a while of chanting as she flies over to an equalist village, she stops. Using her magic, she locates another copy of the book of D.W.A.D. When she flies towards the location, Daybreaker sees a storage unit of cutie marks. 

"Hmph," Daybreaker chuckles. "Seems somepony is deceptive as I," Daybreaker uses her magic to levitate a relic. She uses a memory release spell to see the usage and purposes of the relic. "Ah, you use the relic to strip the ponies of the cutie marks, Starlight Glimmer. You are capable of becoming my next apprentice," Daybreaker smiles devilishly. "Before I take her, I need an uprising army," Daybreaker said as she flies out of the cutie mark storage cave while carrying the relic.

Daybreaker is flying to Ponyville and takes a different route to the Everfree Forest. Due to her immense speed, as the sun shines upon her, Daybreaker becomes invisible to the naked eye. Daybreaker soars through the Everfree in search of the entrance to the mirror pool. She notices the rocks blocking her path. She teleports beneath the rock and flies down to the mirror pool.

"If I remember correctly, Pinkie Pie made hundreds of clones using the mirror pool. Foolish pony. She's given me an army."

Daybreaker uses a reviver spell to reverse the effects that Twilight used to send the clones back. Pinkie Pie clones rise from the mirror pool. The clones behaved erratically and uncontrollably. 

"BE STILL!" Daybreaker shouts, which cause the Pinkie Pie clones to stay still and quiver in fear.

Using the relic and magic, Daybreaker turns most of the Pinkie Pie clones into sun-rising ponies, matching the counterparts. Their cutie marks are like the ones in the storage unit. Six Pinkie Pie clones are the same. Daybreaker uses a different memory spell to tap into the memories of the Pinkie Pie clone.

"Ah, she has memories of Twilight and her friends. The transformations will be stronger than I anticipated," Daybreaker ignites the memories of the clones with her to transform the five Pinkie clones to Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash. Each of them with memories from the letters they sent to her over the months. 

The clones that Daybreaker transformed now look exactly like the counterparts except for one crucial detail. The eyes of the clones are pitch black with an orange burning flare pupils. Draybreaker calls them Sun-Rise Ponies. They are superior than those who roam around Equestria. 

"Now, my fellow-subjects. Flee to San Palomino Desert. Await for my further instructions. Soon we shall conquer all of Equestria, my Sun-Rise Army!" The Sun-Rise pony army shouts and stomps in excitement. Daybreaker uses her magic to create a portal leading to San Palomino Desert. Everyone goes except for her. She needs to return the relic. Daybreaker flies back to the equalist village, places the relic back, and flies back out. As she flies out, she sees Starlight Glimmer leaving her household. "I shall come for you soon, my child."

Daybreaker flies to Sal Palomino Desert to meet up with her army. She sees a dragon's cave worth hiding her army and herself. She enters the dragon's cave and sees a sleeping dragon.

"Leave the cave dragon!" Daybreaker yells. Her shouts echoed the entire cave causing the dragon to wake up disturbingly. The dragon glares at Daybreaker. Her Sun-Rise army walks in the cave and chants "Gloria, Gloria, in Excelsis Celestia. Gloria, Gloria, in Excelsis Celestia." The dragon is disturbed from what he's seeing. He looks at Daybreaker, cowering in fear as she gets closer to him. "What's wrong? Scared?" Daybreaker said mockingly. The dragon whimpers in fear and flees from Daybreaker. "Smart decision."

Daybreaker melts the dragon's treasures to shape like a throne to sit on. The Sun-Rise Ponies bow in respect as they chant "Dies, Irae. Dies Illa Solvet Saeclum Favilla. Dies, Irae. Dies Illa Solvet Saeclum Favilla. Gloria, Gloria, Excelsis in Celestia. Gloria, Gloria, Excelsis in Celestia." over and over. 

"The day of wrath is coming soon. Today is the first step of our conquest. Now," Daybreaker uses her magic to illuminate an image of Queen Chrysalis. "Queen Chrysalis, I'm coming to dethrone you and take your army as well," Daybreaker laughs maniacally as she starts plotting her next plan of action.
> Going with Indigo Zap
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's now 9:30 in the morning. Lemon Zest is already up and cleaning her house a bit. Spike is waking up, he yawns and stretches. He goes to the bathroom to take a hot bath to freshen for the day. After he finished taking his bath, he comes down the stairs to see Lemon Zest sweeping the floors. 

"Need any help, Lemon?"

"No need, Spike. Thank you anyways."

"You're welcome."

There is a knock on the door. 

"I'll get it," Lemon said as she puts the broom aside to answer the door. 

"Hey, Lemon."

"Hi, Indigo."

"I'm here to pick up, Spike."

"Huh?" Spike said in confusion. 

"Well, Spike. My turn for taking care of you for the week has come to an end. Indigo Zap is next in line to take care of you for the week." Lemon said.

"She is?" Spike said.

"Yea! We'll have a fun time together, train here and there, meeting up with Sunny Flare during her weather patrol," Indigo said. Little did she know that Spike ran up the stairs to pack his things and came back down in an instant. 

"Alright! I'm ready to go!" Spike said excitedly.

Indigo blinks twice and gives a surprising look. Lemon couldn't help but laugh at Indigo's reaction. 

"I think someone likes Sunny Flare," Lemon said teasingly. 

"Yea...I...do..." Spike said as he's dozing off a little. 

"Would you like to date her someday?" Indigo said jokingly. 

"Yes...I...would..." Spike said as he dozes off more. Spike's eyes widen a bit in the realization of his comments and blush a bit. 

Lemon and Indigo get a good laugh as Spike blushes a bit more. 

"It's alright, Spike. We couldn't resist to tease you a bit. You gave us more than enough notion when Indigo mentioned Sunny Flare."

"Hehe, you two got me there," Spike turns around. "I can't help it. She's more beautiful than Rarity. Her elegant smile, her personality, her kindness," Spike said. 

"Okay, Romeo, work on that smooth talk on her when you're older. Right now, I'm taking you to my home in the sky." 

"Alright, Indigo," Spike said. "Thanks for letting me stay with you for an extended week, Lemon Zest."

"My pleasure, Spike. I'll see you soon."

Before leaving, Spike goes up to Lemon and hugs her. Then Spike gets on Indigo's back. Indigo bites Spike's bag and flies off as Spike holds onto Indigo. Indigo soars through the skies taking the long route. Spike sees all of Pony Central from afar. Indigo flies higher to land in front of her house. Spike gets off and falls through the clouds. 

"Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!" Spike screams in horror.

"Whoops," Indigo swoops down and catches Spike mid-air. "Sorry about that."

Spike takes a minute to calm himself down. "It's alright. I remember that I can't walk on clouds as Twilight and her friends can."

"Did she happen to find a way to walk on clouds by any chance?"

"Yes. There is a spell that allows earth ponies and unicorns to walk on clouds."

"Hmm, then I'm pretty sure Sugarcoat has a book at the Pine Tree Library with that kind of spell."

"Let's go have a look."

Indigo flies with Spike to the Pine Tree Library. Upon arrival Sugarcoat is outside signing her signature to the delivery pony. 

"Hey, Sugarcoat," Indigo said. 

"Hi, Indigo. Hi, Spike. Need help with something?"

"Actually, yes. You have a book of Spells?" Spike asks.

"Of course I do. What kind of spell are you looking for?"

"One spell that can allow any creature to walk on clouds," Spike said. 

"Oh, that one," Sugarcoat trots to her desk and pulls out the book. "Lots of creatures asked of the spell for a while now. I'll be the one who'll use it on you, Spike."

"Sounds good, Sugarcoat," Spike said as he gets in front of Sugarcoat. 

In a few moments, Sugarcoat uses her magic to activate the cloud walking spell. Spike starts to have a slight tingle throughout his body for a few moments then goes away. 

"There you go, Spike. You can now walk on clouds."

"Are you sure?" Spike questions out of uncertainty. 

"Try it yourself." Sugarcoat states. 

"I will. Indigo, can you fly me to the nearest cloud in the sky?"

"Sure thing, Spike," Indigo takes Spike and flies toward the first cloud she sees. "Alright, Spike. I'll drop you and fly under the cloud. In case the spell backfires."

"Alright, then. I'm ready!" Spike shouts. 

Indigo drops Spike and flies under the cloud. 

"Here goes nothing!" Spike lands on the cloud and doesn't phase through. "Success!"

"Awesome, Spike. Now you can bunk with me for the week for sure," Indigo said as she picks up Spike and flies back down to Sugarcoat.

"Thank you, Sugarcoat," Spike said.

"You're welcome, Spike. I'll see you around later."

Indigo picks up Spike and flies him back to her house. When Indigo lands in front of her house, Spike jumps off and lands on the cloud. 

"Yep, the spell works. I can walk on clouds for sure."

"Perfect, now I can give you the grand tour of my, Sky High Paradise."

"Nice name."

"Thanks,"

Spike picks up his belongings and follows Indigo inside of her home. Spike can see the posters of the Shadowbolts, posters of Disturbance hard rock music group, and flying trophies. Spike places his bag on the fluffy cloudy couch. 

"So, am I sleeping on the couch?"

"Nope," Indigo shakes her head. "There's a room I barely use so you can have it."

"Cool. Where is it?"

"Two flights up. I'll show you after the tour," 

"Sounds good," Spike said. 

Indigo shows Spike the ground floor; it has a kitchen, a living room, a game room, a music room, and a dining room. Indigo now takes Spike to the second floor; it has a bedroom, bathroom, weight training room, a second music room, and a reading room. Indigo now takes Spike to the last floor; it has another bedroom which she mentioned to Spike, another bathroom, a meditation room, and an empty room."

"This room is empty cause it's colder here. Also, the window in the room leads to the outside slide."

"What's with the slide, Indigo?"

"Every morning, I come up here to ride the slide down. It gives me momentum when I want to fly faster."

"Ooooh."

"It's quite useful and fun as well. Even if I feel like dropping some water balloons on a hot summer day."

"Now that's funny. Though it'll be unfortunate for me."

"The water balloons are usually warm water."

"Nice. Now I know what to expect on a hot summer day," Spike said as he goes to the spare bedroom and put his belongings on the fluffy clouded bed. Indigo is at the door. 

"Since you are bunking with me, Spike. I'll be taking you with me to Foal Mountain when I train. I don't want to leave you hanging on a cloud until you grow your wings."

"Sounds good. Also, quick question; will I get to train with you at Foal Mountain?"

"You will if you are up for it. Except for my flying routine. I tend to fly faster."

"Would it help if I were to participate during your flight training?"

"How so, Spike?" Indigo asks with a level of concern. 

"Well, what if I pretend to be an injured creature of Pony Central that needs help? I can pretend to be in danger or act like I'm scared. Giving you and helping you develop a better mindset when the real dangers are to occur."

"Sounds tempting. Very tempting, Spike. However, I thought you wanted to be free from being used as a test subject?"

"I did. I still do. You are my friend, Indigo. I want to help you. When I was used to be a test subject, it wasn't of my own doing; it was Twilight using me cause she had no one else to test on. She used me for most of her testing. It came to the point of being too much. In this case, I want to decide between helping a friend or not. I choose to help you train, Indigo."

After much thought and consideration, Indigo relents. She hopes that her training technique doesn't brutalize the baby dragon. Then again, she can call it a day when things get too rough out at Foal Mountain. She smiles at Spike for his offering in services to help a friend. 	

"Alright, Spike. I'll accept your offer. We'll start training tomorrow. Today is a rest day for me."

"Okay, so what should we do?"

"Well, I'm supposed to be meeting with Sunny Flare at the Weather Command Station in an hour for lunch. She has the rest of the day off so, the three of us will be hanging out together."

"Sweet!" Spike shouts happily. 

"Also, we're going to the castle to do some exploring tomorrow afternoon. We haven't check it out yet cause you were in a deep sleep recovering your memories."

"Right, that should be interesting."

"I'm gonna catch up on some reading, Spike. How bout you unpack your things and meet me in the reading room. I do have old school comics that you'll like."

"Cool, see you there," Spike said excitedly.

Indigo leaves Spike's room and goes down a flight to the reading room. Spike unpacks some of the things he took from Lemon's house and places them away. After twenty minutes of unpacking, he grabs his Power Ponies comic and goes down a flight to Indigo's reading room. 

"Hey, Spike," Indigo said as she reads a Pony Rangers comic book on a beanbag chair.  

"Hey, Indigo," Spike said, now sitting on a bean bag chair. "Whatcha, reading?"

"Pony Rangers versus Galactica Unicronus. One of my favorite comic book stories." 

"What are the Pony Rangers?" Spike asks curiously.

"Sit back and relax. I'm about to tell you a great story."

Indigo tells Spike the origins of the Pony Rangers. The Pony Rangers are close friends that were summoned by an ancient deity who is searching for the next pure heart force to fight against the Sinister of Evil, Galactica Unicronus. The Pony Rangers are a team of five different ponies from different regions of Equestria. Aquamarine, a naval soldier specialist who loves living close by the sea. She's a weapon's specialist and a master of Kung-fu. Phoenix, a wildlife caretaker. He is a survivor specialist and can live off the land in any eco-system. Also, he's a master of Mixed Martial Arts. Karen-Jane otherwise nicknamed KJ, an animal caretaker who defends near-extinct animals from poachers. She's a swordswoman and a weapon's specialist. Then, there is Aleister. A warrior who never stops fighting. He single-handily defeated an underground society plotting to rid the world of mother nature. His heart beats to defend his home, family, and friends. Finally, the team leader herself, Lunas. She's the last of the deities that hasn't been corrupted by darkness. She's the wises of everypony. 

"Wow, Lunas sounds a lot like Princess Luna," Spike said. 

"In a way, yes. Now, where was I?"  

Lunas has cosmic energy and uses it to give her friends an extra power boost to fight Galactica Unicronus' forces. During her time on earth, she starts learning more about the earth's culture through her friends. Aquamarine, Phoenix, KJ, Aleister, and Lunas were brought together by Nova, the God of Life. Nova explains that darkness is slowly taking over life. She has summoned the next best team to fight the darkness. At first, the group laughed. Even Lunas had a good laugh until they saw the seriousness of Nova. The group took the time to get to know each other. They trained, fought, laughed, cried, and won every battle they faced. 

"So, who is Galactia Unicronus?" Spike asks out of curiosity and excitement. 

"So, Galactica Unicronus is a God of Death. He and Nova are siblings. There is so much I can tell you from the Pony Rangers comic but, I think you should read for yourself."

"I think I will," Spike said. "The Pony Rangers are interesting and sounds a bit better than the Power Ponies."

Indigo looks at the clock in the reading room. 

"Ah, ten minutes before lunch break for Sunny's weather team."

"Then let's get going. I can read the Pony Rangers comic later," Spike said. 

"Alright, then," Indigo said as she stretches her wings. 

"Hey, Indigo?"

"Yes, Spike?"

"Can we leave by sliding on that slide you mentioned upstairs?"

Indigo chuckles a bit. "Sure, Spike. I'll lay flat for you."

Spike and Indigo go to the empty room. Indigo opens the window showing the long slide that goes beneath the cloud. Indigo gets in position and lays flat. Spike sits on her back and goes down on the slide. The extra weight gives Indigo added speed as she soars the skies of Pony Central. She flies past the Pine Tree Library and Sugary Skies Bakery. Indigo lands in front of the Weather Command Station. With a few minutes to spare, they now wait for Sunny Flare.
> Luna's Morning
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It is now 7:30 in the morning. Princess Luna is now waking up. Discord returns from doing Luna's nightmare patrol. He comes by to Luna's room to check on her. 

"Hey, Luna. How are you feeling?" Discord asks. Coming back from the dream realm, he has some thorns and arrows sticking out of his body. 

"Good, Draqonecuus. You had fun doing my job?" Luna said as she stretches. 

"The most fun I had in years, Luna. Seeing other ponies' dreams and messing around with their nightmares adds a new meaning of thrills and chills."

"Some nightmares are fun to mess with to help ponies sleep soundly."

"So, what you have planned for today?"

"Since Twilight Sparkle came last night, I shall prepare my teachings for today."

"Uhh, what about the morning meetings? Celestia, before Daybreaker, always attend morning meetings."

"Unless the morning meetings have any info on Daybreaker or any loose villain of Equestria, I am not interested in this giving point."

"Do they know?"

"Yes. Every morning as of late, I get the same reception," Luna coughs. "Princess Luna, we need submitted forms for this invention, Princess, we're coming close on a discovery with a cure, Princess, we need Princess Celestia back, Princess this, Princess that, Princess..." Princess Luna groans out of frustration. "Ponies of Canterlot can be a nuisance at times. I have more priorities as a Princess than addressing meaningless propositions ponies are coming up with."

"I see you're on the serious tone than previous Princesses."

"Protection is what my Equestria needs. I need to be ready when danger comes around."

"Well, you have my support, Luna. I'm still getting used to the Friendship thang, however, before I went rogue centuries ago, you and I were on mutual grounds. Might as well build a stronger level of trust and friendship."

"Of course, Discord and we shall," Princess Luna said. Smiling a bit as she finished her stretches. "I have a favor to ask of you, Discord."

"Sure, what is it?"

"I won't be able to fulfill my duties during the night as new ruler of Equestria. I need help with the nightmare patrol every night. Can you," Luna is cut off because of Discord saying his answer already.

"Yes. I'll help you with the nightmare patrol duty. I had fun last night fighting off and messing with the nightmares. I want to fight off more of those nightmares ponies have every night," Discord said happily. He is now wearing a lone ranger costume.

"Thank you, my friend. That means a lot to us."

"You're welcome, Luna. You are, after all, locating the books of D.W.A.D. It's the least I can do to repay you. Also, it's you. Not them."

"Huh?" Princess Luna said in confusion. 

"Well, Nightmare Moon is not part of you. It's Celestia's anger inside of you creating Nightmare Moon. So the correct term for you is, I."

"Thank you for correcting me, Discord."

"You're welcome. I'll see you later tonight."

"Alright, Discord. Have a fun day."

"I will, ta ta!" Discord said as he opens a closet door going straight to Fluttershy's cottage. 

"Alright, time to wake up, Twilight Sparkle," Princess Luna lowers the moon and raises the sun. A bit overdue, however, she needed the extra sleep. She'll let the sun up for an extended hour to make up the loss of time. 

Princess Luna walks down the corridors. Raven Inkwell comes up to Luna. 

"Morning, Princess Luna. How are you feeling today?"		

"I'm fine, Raven. Any complaints about the morning meetings I refused to enter?"

"Not at all, Princess Luna. I believe they finally got the message. You'll only listen to the utmost importance meetings. Not idiocy meetings that have nothing to do with Daybreaker and destruction of Equestria."

"Thank you, Raven. I will attend those that can help all ponies of Equestria. Not for them to make a profit of."

"Of course. Straight to the point, Princess Luna."

"If any news of Daybreaker comes up, report to me immediately. I don't want to be disturbed for the rest of the day. I need to start teaching Twilight Sparkle the proper ways of becoming a Princess of Equestria."

"Understood, my Princess. I'll be going now," Raven trots the other way. 

Princess Luna trots to Twilight's door and knocks. 

"One minute, please!" Twilight said as she frantically packs her things of the day. Twilight checks and rechecks her inventory. Princess steps back and sighs as she hears Twilight's commotion. Twilight opens the door. 

"Twilight Sparkle," Princess Luna said calmly. 

Twilight Sparkle is a mess, her hair and mane messy, her body is twitching; it looks like she hasn't slept in days. 

"Sorry for being tardy, Princess," Twilight said apologetically. 

"No need to apologize, Twilight. I recommend you refreshen yourself up before the day can begin."

"Yes," Twilight slowly back into the room. "Princess Luna. I'll need a few minutes."		

"Take your time, Twilight. We're in no rush for today. I'll meet you by the throne."	

Twilight closes the door slowly and sighs heavily. She gallops to the bathroom to take a soothing hot bath. Princess Luna trots to her throne and sits, now awaiting for Twilight Sparkle. 

After an hour, Twilight leaves her room and trot towards Luna's throne. Princess Luna is meditating on the floor. 

"Princess Luna?" Twilight asks. 

Princess Luna opens her eyes from her meditation. She looks at Twilight whose in better condition than an hour ago. 

"Twilight Sparkle," Luna said calmly. 

"Sorry for how I was earlier. I wanted to prepare myself for anything you teach me like a Princess. Taking notes, studying, analyzing, the works."

"Twilight Sparkle, there is no need to overstress yourself," Luna replies calmly. "It's only the first day of many that I'll be teaching you to become a proper ruler of Equestria. No need to fret. Unlike Celestia who sends you away to learn, I'll be by your side teaching you all I know." 

"Thank you, Princess Luna."		

"Before we begin, understand your flaws first."

"My flaws? Princess Luna, I don't have many flaws."

"So, what are your flaws then, Princess Twilight Sparkle?"

"Well, uh..." Twilight thinks hard on herself. Her body starts to twitch a bit as she stresses out a bit. 

"Twilight, by not acknowledging your flaws, you are stressing yourself. Everypony has flaws. Even I have mine."

"What are your flaws, Princess Luna?" Twilight states. 

"I have a hard time channeling my emotions, which is why I meditate to control them better. I tend to speak loudly with my Royal Voice. Only time I use my Royal Voice is when I'm making a statement or in anger. I'm still trying to get everypony to trust, love, and worship me the way they have towards Celestia. Being a pony of the Night, Princess of the Night, they still find me scary. Also, trying to convince I was a victim of Celestia's demented plans is harder for ponies to understand. As of late, I am unable to keep up with my nighttime duties as Princess of the Night. Asking for help is harder than helping others. Something I can relate to Applejack during her apple bucking season. I'm struggling in my mind towards my sister. Can I forgive her for what she's done to me or punish her like sending her away using the Elements of Harmony? In my mind, its a war between what to do when the time is right. It's depleting my concentration every day," Princess Luna looks up at the stained window, the one that has Celestia banishing her to the moon. "I fear that Daybreaker may strike at any moment. Which is why I discontinued any meetings with ponies of Canterlot they had with Celestia."

"Sorry for asking, Luna."

"No need to apologize, Twilight. You need to know the level of stress as a Princess. It's not easy ruling Equestria. The stress of becoming a Princess may overwhelm you, however, by calming yourself and keeping a state of mind, it will help you make better decisions."		

"I understand, Princess Luna."

"Good. Now, tell me. What are your flaws, Twilight Sparkle?"

Twilight sighs heavily. She takes a deep breath allowing her thoughts to flow through in her mind. After a few moments, she's ready to speak. 

"I tend to get carried away whenever I have a test. When I don't have it my way, I twitch. When I'm stressed, I twitch. When I'm angry, I twitch. I have a twitching problem that throws my concentration away. I have outbursts like any other pony. I organize a lot and make sure everything is perfect. If it isn't perfect, I snap and make sure it is perfect for the littlest detail. I have an unfortunate mishap of handling with other creatures such as baby dragons," Twilight sighs sadly. She's now thinking of Spike. "I have a habit of making wrongful decisions instead of learning my mistakes. I can't let go..."

"I think that'll be enough, Twilight. Also, from what I've heard and seen, you have an OCD problem."

"OCD!" Twilight shouts angrily. "I don't have OCD!" Twilight said neglectfully. 

Princess Luna sighs. "Twilight; you make sure that everything is perfect, you flip out when things are wrong, you rush and go into exact detail. If you are worried about a Princess having a disorder, it's nothing to be afraid of," Princess Luna said reassuringly. 

"It...is?" Twilight questions as she calms down. 

"Yes, it is. Having a disorder doesn't make you feel pathetic or anything of it. By overcoming the disorder, you'll be stronger and have a better mindset as ruler of Equestria."

"How? How?! How does that make me a better Princess?"

"Improving on yourself, setting goals to achieve down the road. Knowing what you have and use it properly."

"I thought I was..."

"In all honesty, you weren't. You allowed stress to overwhelm you. Your OCD made it worse once stress picked up. It's a bad combination when making decisions such as trying to get Spike back into your life when he ran from you,"

Twilight blinks, her knees shudder uncontrollably. 

"I am aware that you and Spike were close together before he ran. You wanted things to go back to normal. Your decision making with stress and OCD clouded your mind with misjudgment. It's unhealthy, Twilight. I will teach you to overcome it in due time." 

"Even if or when I overcome that flaw, Princess Luna... Spike will never forgive me," Twilight said sadder. 

"Never say never, Twilight. No one can hate forever. Not even I. Give Spike time, I'm pretty sure he'll forgive you."

"You, really mean that, Princess Luna?"

"Yes," Princess Luna nods. "I do."

"Will that be the same for Daybreaker?"

"Only time will tell, Twilight," Luna said sternly.

"So," Twilight said as she smiles a bit. "What are you going to teach me for today?" 

"My teaching will commence on a trip to Ponyville. We'll leave in a half-hour."

"Ponyville? Why Ponyville, Princess Luna?"

"My first lesson will have an impact on you mentally. When we move forward, reflecting on the past helps us become a better Princess."

"I understand. I'll prepare my things."

"That won't be necessary, Twilight. The Royal Guards will fly us to Ponyville. We will be in Ponyville for the rest of the afternoon."

"Alright, then," Twilight said. 

After a half-hour, Princess Luna and Twilight are on their way to Ponyville. Princess Luna meditates on the way there, hoping that her first teaching goes well for Twilight Sparkle.
> A Hangout
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's now 8:00 in the morning. Princess Cadance is waking up. She stretches and watches Shining Armor waking up. 

"Morning, Shining," Cadance said as she continues to stretch. 

"Morning, love. So, when are you visiting Spike?"

"Sometime in the afternoon. When are you visiting Princess Luna?"

"Sometime during the late afternoon or evening." 

"Alright, Shining," Cadance said. Cadance walks up to her husband, who is getting out of bed and kisses his cheek. 

The morning is like any other morning. Cadance attending to some meetings, go around the Crystal Empire, opening new stores in front of crowds, and visiting young fillies and colts at different schools. Shining Armor's routine is patrolling the streets of the Crystal Empire, stopping thugs and minor criminal activity, and training the newer recruits. The morning goes by quick, which allows Cadance to go to the train station. Eager to visit Spike after everything that has happened since his decision to run away. Cadance alerts a Crystal Guard to inform Shining Armor that she is on her way to visit Spike. 

It's now 12:30. Princess Cadance is waiting for the next train to Pony Central. She thinks about how to approach Spike. Does she talk about the recent events that happened earlier? Does she talk about forgiving Twilight and her friends, someday? Does she talk about Spike's time in Pony Central? Does she talk about Daybreaker, the castle? Some many questions continue to pop into her mind. She'll know what to say and how to say it once she confronts and spend time with Spike. The train pulls in the station. Cadance gets on the train and sits by the window. As the train leaves the station, Cadance ponders on the type of situation with Spike. 

It's been a half-hour of waiting for Spike and Indigo. They've been waiting for Sunny Flare to come out of the Weather Command Station. The door finally opens. Star Bolt opens the doors allowing the weather team to take a break for the rest of the day. 

"Hey, Star Bolt," Spike greets. 

"Hey, Spike. I'm guessing you and Indigo are waiting for Sunny?" Star Bolt asks. 

"Yes, sir!" Indigo said and salutes. 

Star Bolt chuckles a bit. "At ease, Indigo."

Sunny Flare walks out with Thunder Bolt. They had a busy morning gathering the clouds for tonight's storm. The rest of the day will remain sunny until the night shift team comes around to bring the rain. Thunder Bolt trots with his dad down the other way. Sunny walks up to Spike and Indigo. 

"Finally!" Indigo expressed impatiently. 

"Sorry, Indigo. Gathering clouds took more effort than we thought," Sunny replies. "Hey, Spike. How are you today?" She asks, smiling. 

"T-T-Terrific..." Spike said as he dozes off a bit. 

"Spike?" Sunny waves her hoof in front of him as Spike is in a trance. "Spike, you there?" Indigo chuckles a bit as Sunny looks at Indigo with confusion. "Why are you laughing?"

"Sorry, I think Spike should tell you," Indigo said as she stops chuckling. 

"Okay?"	

Spike snaps himself from the trance. "I'm here. I'm fine, Sunny."

"You sure?" Sunny said, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes," Spike blushes slightly.

"Alright, then. So, where should we go to grab a bite to eat?"

"Where you normally go to grab a bite to eat, Sunny?" Spike asks. 

"Well, normally at Sugary Skies Bakery or the all you can eat buffet around the corner."

"Alright, so where should we go?" Indigo said. 

"Hmm, let's head over to the all you can eat buffet," Sunny said. 

"Fine with me," Spike stated. 

Sunny Flare, Indigo Zap, and Spike walk to the all you can eat buffet. As they enter, Indigo sees Maiden of the Skies, Captain of the Shadow Bolts. Dashing Bullet. Indigo starts having butterflies in her stomach. Her knees start shaking as nervous sweat rains down on her face a bit. Sunny and Spike notice Indigo's reaction. 

"Everything okay, Indigo?" Sunny asks. 

"D-D-D-D-D-Dashing...B-B-B-B-B-Bullet..." Indigo said, trembling a bit. 

Sunny looks and sees Dashing Bullet in the distance. 

"Oh.., right. Maiden of the Skies, Captain of the Shadow Bolts. My second boss, when Star Bolt isn't around."

"Hey, Indigo. Have you tried talking to Dashing Bullet?"

"Not...really, Spike." 

"Well, today could be the day you finally talk to Dashing Bullet."

Indigo gasps. "No, no, no, no, no, no, no, Spike. I'm not ready yet." 	

"Hmm, alright, then," Spike smirks. 

Spike walks towards the buffet table where Dashing Bullet is. Indigo's pupil shrink as she watches Spike from afar. Sunny rolls her eyes and watches Spike from afar as well. Dashing Bullet is getting a salad to go with her fruit. 

"Hi, Dashing Bullet."

"Hello, Spike. Nice to see you here. So, is there something you want me to grab for you?"

"Uh, not yet. Anyway, are you alone or with others here in the buffet?"	

"I came by myself." 

"Would you like to sit with Sunny, Indigo, and I for lunch?"

"Sure. I don't see a reason to refuse."

"Cool. I'll go look for a table for the four of us to sit."

"Sounds good, Spike."

After a few moments, Spike locates a round table for Dashing Bullet, Indigo, Sunny, and he to sit. Spike brought a plate of gems and haystack fries. Sunny and Dashing Bullet brought a plate of veggies and fruits. Indigo brought a plate of fruits and haystack fries.  Spike sits next to Sunny and Dashing at the round table. Indigo starts sweating nervously. 

"So Spike," Dashing said. "Enjoying your time in Pony Central?"

"I am. It's nice here. Also, I have a weekly stay with my friends at their houses."

"Interesting," Dashing said. She takes a bite out of an apple. "So, who are you staying with for the week?"

"Last week was Lemon Zest. This week is Indigo Zap."

Dashing Bullet looks at Indigo. She is sweating as Dashing looks. Dashing chuckles. 

"No need to be nervous, Indigo. It's just a simple hang out."

"I think she's frightened," Spike said. 

"Indigo, please speak up. Tell me what's on your mind?" Dashing said assuringly. 

Indigo sighs. "I look up to you, Dashing Bullet. You are an inspiration to me. I want to be a Shadowbolt someday. I train hard. Every other day, I train mentally and physically to be better. You are a living legend, Dashing. My ego and my pride may get in the way of achieving my goals to be a Shadowbolt someday. Not everyone gets to join."	

Dashing Bullet extends her wing to Indigo. Indigo looks at her idol. Dashing smiles at Indigo. 

"To tell you the truth, kiddo. I was a lot like you when I was younger."

"R-Really?"

"When I was younger, I wanted to push myself and break the limits of my body. Training hard and giving 110% every day. I went at it the wrong way. To be a Shadowbolt, it takes pride, love, and willingness to sacrifice anything and everything to protect those you love and hold dearly. It's not about being the strongest, the fastest, and fame. It's about working together, sacrifice, and wanting to be the best you can for others. United we stand, divided we fall. In the unity of the Shadowbolts, we are the best defenders of Equestria. Tell me, have you allowed your pride to protect someone you love or wanted to make sure he or she is safe from harm's way?"

"Yes," Indigo said. She looks at Spike then at Dashing. "Twilight Sparkle and her friends ambushed us at Lemon's house. I feared that they were going to ruin Spike's life even more after what he suffered through. I wanted to fight and save Spike. I was going to break any limbs of theirs with my teeth or wings. I tackled Rainbow Dash and popped her wing with my teeth. I told Twilight and her friends that your not going to ruin his life anymore."

"Yea, she did that. She landed in front of me, wanting to protect me, and was willing to fight back," Spike stated. 

"Well, that's noble of you, Indigo," Dashing said. "I can see the eagerness in your eyes and the fear of being rejected. In the new year coming up, I'll allow you to participate in the Shadowbolt boot camp to become an official Shadowbolt."		

Indigo's eyes widen in shock. She's no longer sweating or nervous anymore.

"Wow, just like that to get into the Shadowbolts boot camp?" Spike questions out of shock and amazement.

"Yes. Wonderbolt and Shadowbolt acceptance are different. Wonderbolt acceptance is through training first, then taking an exam to know what are the Wonderbolts flight patterns and history. Wonderbolts select a few who excel in flight speed, patterns, and toughness. Shadowbolts are different. Shadowbolts' acceptance is through determination, teamwork, and heart. The training is more intensified than the Wonderbolts. The training puts you in a scenario that can likely happen. How to maneuver the situation by yourself or as a team speaks volumes."

"Wow, that'll explain Star Bolt about me being a Shadowbolt when I'm older."

"We recruit differently, Spike. When we see potential, we speak. When we don't, we remain silent," Dashing said.

"Did you or Star Bolt have seen Indigo's potential?" Spike asks. 

"Star Bolt and I have seen it. We never got to ask cause she flies away. We weren't going to deny cause us Shadowbolts understand the heaviness of others and how to approach it. Just need the right time to say the message."

Indigo breathes heavily after hearing that. Then she calms down after taking deep breathes. 

"So, are the Shadowbolts all Pegasi?"

"No, Spike. We have griffons on our squad. Shadowbolts allows any creature that can fly to join. Wonderbolts have a stricter policy about other creatures joining. Pony Central allows any creature to live here in harmony. We would not deny work from other creatures."

"I'll look more into joining the Shadowbolts someday," Spike said.

"That's good," Dashing said. 

"Dashing," Sunny asks. 

"Yes, Sunny?"

"Three weeks from today, I request to have a week off."

"Why in three weeks?"

"Three weeks from today is when I take care of Spike for the week."

"Ooooh, so let me get this straight. Spike?" Dashing asks.

"Yes?" Spike answers. 

"What's your weekly stay like?"

"The first week, I'm with Lemon Zest. The following week is with Indigo Zap. Then Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare."

"Alright, Sunny. You'll have that week off. Every four weeks you work, you'll have the next week off to take care of Spike."

"Thank you, Ma'am," Sunny said. 

"You're welcome, Sunny. Now then, let's eat."

Dashing, Indigo, Sunny, and Spike chow down. They had a good time appreciating each other's company. Having some good laughs and telling short stories. Dashing is interested in going into the castle. No pony in Pony Central has stepped in. They set up a date to explore the castle. Dashing Bullet wants to bring some of the Shadowbolts to explore the castle as well. Indigo mentions some time this week they'll go by and visit the castle. Dashing picks up her plate. 

"See you around, kiddo. I have to prepare myself with the night shift weather team. See you later; Spike, Sunny. Have a nice day," Dashing said as she puts her plate on top of the pile and leaves the buffet.

"That was delicious," Spike said after having two plates of gems. 

"I'll say," Sunny said. 

Indigo smiles as she watches Dashing leaves. She sighs happily and stretches her wings.

"Alright, I ready to go to the fields," Indigo said. 

"So, who's paying for this and what we are doing at Pony Central Fields?" Spike asks.  

"Indigo and I will pay. Also, we either relax or play sports."

"Cool!" Spike said. 

Indigo and Sunny pay for the meals and leave the buffet with Spike. They take the long route to the Pony Central fields. Around this time, the train pulls up in the station. Princess Cadance leaves the train and trots down the path to Pony Central. As she trots, she sees the lemon tree orchard.

"So, this is Lemon Zest's farm. How interesting. Perhaps she can tell me where Spike is," Cadance trots to Lemon's house and knocks. 

"Just one minute," Lemon said.	

Cadance waits patiently. Lemon walks to her door and opens it. 

"Hi, Lemon Zest."				

"Princess Cadance. Welcome to my home."

"Thanks, have you seen Spike by any chance?"

"Yes, he's with Indigo Zap. Is there something wrong, Princess Cadance?"

"No, I'm here to visit Spike. I want to see how he is doing."		

"Well, walk around in town or go by Pony Central fields. I'm pretty sure you'll find him, Princess Cadance."

"I will and thank you," Princess Cadance said. 

"You're welcome," Lemon said. She closes her door and starts cleaning her home. 

Princess Cadance takes flight and scout Pony Central until she locates Spike. Indigo, Sunny, and Spike are at Pony Central Fields. They meet up with a bunch of griffons to play soccer. 

"Hey, Hydros. Hey, Aura. Hey, Jaybird."

"Hey, Spike." They said in unison. 

"So," Indigo said. She has the soccer ball spinning on her wing. "What are the teams?"

"Well, there are seven of us and three of you so, we'll have two captains and play it by ear."

"Sounds good to us," Sunny said. 

There are two goal nets set up. 

"Alright, first two to score a goal gets to be captain," Hydros said.

Everyone lines up perfectly to take turns shooting at the net.

"I'm up," Indigo said. She kicks the soccer ball and misses the net. It bounces on the goal pole. "Darn it!" Indigo shouts and trots to the back of the line. Aura flies to the ball and puts it back for the next kicker.

"Nice, I'm up," Spike said. Spike run towards the ball and kicks it. The ball ends up being short of the goal. "Darn it!" Spike shouts, then walks to the back of the line frustrated. 

"My turn," Hydros said. He goes get the ball and put it in position. He steadies himself, aiming where he wants to kick. Hydros goes for the kick. The ball goes wide left missing the goal. The others laughed while Hydros takes the walk of shame to the back of the line. 

"Let me show you how to score a goal," Jaybird said, cockily.  Jaybird gets the ball and puts it in position. He closes his eyes and kicks the ball straight at the goal. "Hah! I choose first," Jaybird said as he flies backward. 

"Show off!" Hydros shouts. 

"I got this," Sunny said. 

"A pegasus. Ooooh, I'm so scared," Jaybird said, mockingly toward Sunny Flare.  Jaybird puts the ball in position for Sunny to kick.

"Take this!" Sunny kicks the ball at Jaybird. The ball and Jaybird go straight at the goal. 

"Lucky shot," Jaybird said, as he rubs his face.

"Well, we have two captains. Jaybird, you pick first," Aura said. 

Jaybird is an orange griffin. His head is black. Jaybird has a cockiness problem when it comes down to cooking and when it comes down to playing soccer. He is a head chef at Pony Central's Grill and Chill restaurant. Always bragging about how great his cooking is and how great his playmaking abilities are. 

"In that case, I'll take Hyrdos." 

Hydros is a blue griffin. His head is orange with a scar on his eye. Hydros loves playing sports and has more energy for sports than work. Hydros is the owner of Pony Central's Sports Station. 

"I'll take Indigo. Pegasi stick together." 

"I'll take my boy, Lance," Jaybird said.  

Lance is a green griffin. His head is yellow.  Cool, calm, and collective. He knows his role and is ready to play. Lance is a gym teacher and a science teacher at Pony Central High School. 

"I'll take Spike the Dragon," Sunny said.

"Darn it! I wanted Spike on our team," Lance said. 

"Oh well, maybe next time," Hydros said. 

"I'll take Aura," Jaybird said. 

Aura is a light violet griffin. Her head is yellow. She focuses her time on becoming an Olympian for her species. She trains hard with Indigo from time-to-time.  

"Fine, I'll take Kronos," Sunny said. 

Kronos is a silver griffin. His head is black. He prefers reading and spending time with friends than being alone. He is often with someone every day. Making a new friend with a different creature or helping someone in Pony Central. 	

"Darn it, I'll take Gale," Jaybird said. 

Gale is a dark blue griffin. His head is white. He works at the Weather Command Station, helping pegasi time-to-time and organizes for all other weather teams. 

"That leads me with, Ares," Sunny said. 

Ares is a brown griffin. His head is blue. He is training at the Shadowbolt boot camp to become a leader for his squadron of griffins. Either than training at the boot camp, he often enters in eating contests and participates in group activities. 

"My team will go left. Sunny, your team will go right."	

"Fine with me, get ready to be annihilated," Sunny said. 

The two teams are now talking among themselves to set up their plays and defensives. 

"Hydros, you are better off helping Gale on defense. Gale is our better goalie and defender," Jaybird states. 

"Understood," Gale and Hydros said. 

"Lance and Aura. You are with me on offense. The Griffins shall prevail. The others shall be in disarray."

"Spike, what is best suited for you?" Sunny asks.

"I'm better on defense. Not as a goalie but as a defender. I don't have kicking strength to score. I can't be goalie cause I can't jump high enough. The ball will send me flying into the goal."

"Fair enough. So who wants to be the goalie?" Sunny asks. 

"Heh, knowing Jaybird, he'll be mad every time I stop him from scoring. I'll be the goalie," Kronos said. 

"Awesome. We'll be the best defensive dynamic duo," Spike said.

"We will," Kronos states. 

"That leaves Sunny, Ares, and I on offense. We'll take down the others," Indigo said. 

The two teams got together and put their hooves and claw together in unison. Now, getting ready to play soccer. From afar, Princess Cadance spots Spike and the others. She finds a cloud nearby to watch first then talk with Spike. The offensive teams move towards the center of the field.

"First to five goals win," Jaybird said. 

"Sounds good. It'll be easy kicking your butt," Sunny said. 

"Sunny, use your wing to toss the ball up high to start the game," Lance said. 

Sunny uses her wings to toss the soccer ball in the air to start the game. 

"Let's do this!" Jaybird shouts excitedly.

The game starts with Lance flying and kicking the soccer ball as his team moves forward. Ares intercepts the ball and kicks it towards Indigo. Indigo dribbles the ball and passes it to Sunny. Sunny dribbles the ball, however, Hydros kicks the ball away from Sunny. Jaybird swoops in and dribbles the ball the other way. Jaybird passes the ball to Aura. Spike tries to dive kick the ball away from Aura but misses. He grunts as Arua dribbles closer to the goal. Kronos gets ready. 

"This'll be easy," Kronos said, mockingly. 

Aura smirks and fake kicks the ball to psychs out Kronos. 

"Gotcha!" Aura said as she kicks the ball.

Spike dives kick the ball as the ball goes wide right, missing the goal. 

"Not on my watch!" Spike said. He pounds his chest with his claw, claiming that this is his field. 

"Ugh...Lucky save..." Aura said. 

Jaybird goes to the middle, Aura is near the goal, and Lance gets in position for the corner kick. Indigo and Spike get in defense positions as Sunny and Ares are near Jaybird. Lance kicks the ball at the corner, Aura tries to headbutt the ball at the goal but fails. Kronos catches the ball. 

"So, close and yet, so far far away," Kronos said mockingly. 

"Ugh, I hate you," Aura said as she goes back on defense a little. 

"No, you don't," Kronos said. He kicks the ball to Indigo. 

"Thanks, Kronos," Indigo said, as she dribbles the ball. 

"Nice save, Kronos," Spike said. 

"You too, Spike," Kronos said. He salutes to Spike with respect.  

Indigo passes the ball to Sunny. Sunny uses her wings to redirect the ball to Ares. 

"Gotcha now, Gale," Ares said. 

"Bring it," Gale uses his claws to signal Ares to bring it on. 

Ares fake kicks the ball. Gale doesn't flinch but waits. Indigo kicks the ball the other way. The ball bounces off the goal post at a different angle and into the net. Gale is upset as he kicks the ball.

"One up, slowpoke," Indigo said while she chuckles. 

Gale picks up the ball, now having a game face. "The only goal you'll get."

Gale rolls the ball to Jaybird. He dribbles the ball down the field. Hydros decided to play offense knowingly that Gale is heated. Spike tries to dive kick the ball. He misses as Jaybird passes to Hydros. Hydros took over sending Sunny and Ares aside with his quick playmaking skills. He kicks the ball. Kronos dives and misses the block. Hydros scores for his team. The game is tied, one apiece. 

"You started mocking us, we'll finish by winning the game," Hydros said. 

"It's only getting started, fool," Ares said. 

The game goes on for an hour. It's a back and forth sequence of twists, turns, fake kicks, passes, and goals. Hydros scores two, Lance scores one, and Aura scores one. Indigo scores one, Sunny scores one, and Ares score two. The two teams are fatigued. Jaybird is dribbling the ball and winds up dribbles into the Spike. Jaybird kicks Spike at the goal. Kronos catches Spike. 

"Penalty kick," Spike said. He rubs his backside.

"What?!" Jaybird whines frustratedly. 

"You heard me. I call a penalty kick," Spike said. 

"Yea, dude. You were a bit tired to notice that you were dribbling Spike instead of the ball," Lance explains. 

"Spike, are you alright?" Sunny and Indigo ask. The two are worried about Spike getting kicked like that. 

"I'll be alright. It's not the first time nor won't be the last time," Spike said. "At least it was accidental." 

"Yea, sorry about that. I thought you were the ball," Jaybird chuckles nervously. 

"Hey, it's fine, Jaybird. I know soccer is a physical sport. I knew what I was getting myself into."

Jaybird sighs in relief a bit. He didn't want to cause any harm to Spike, intentionally. He knows Spike wanted to be free from that. 

"Alright, you call for the penalty kick, then you will kick it," Jaybird states.  

"Alright, I'll get into position," Gale said. 

"That won't be necessary, Gale. I'll do it," Jaybird said. He walks to the goal post now in position. 

Spike walks down and places the ball. He aims to where he wants to kick. Indigo, Sunny, Kronos, and Ares are chanting Spike's name. Spike's game face is on. Jaybird's game face is on as well. Spike run and kicks the ball. The ball ricochets off of Jaybird's face sending him flying. The ball goes in the net. 

"No! Nooooooo!" Gale shouts and grabs his head. He falls to his knees in shock.  

Indigo, Sunny, Ares, and Kronos runs up to Spike and cheers. They toss him up, celebrating as he scores then winning goal. Hydros, Aura, and Lance walk up to Jaybird. They were stunned in disbelief that the ball ricochets off of Jaybird's face. Then all of a sudden, everyone hears a loud distinctive cheer coming from the clouds above. They look up to see a happy, cheering, Princess on the cloud. Sunny, Indigo, and Spike blink twice. 

"Princess Cadance?" Spike shouts to grab her attention. 

After Princess Cadance finished her cheering, she hears Spike and blushes a bit in embarrassment. She recomposes herself and flies down softly. 

"My apologies for the awkward moment," Cadance said. 

"It's alright, Princess Cadance. Enjoyed the show?" Spike asks. 

"I did. The game was very entertaining and could have gone either way."

"So, uh..." Spike recollect his thoughts. "What are you doing here in Pony Central, Princess Cadance?"

"Right. I wanted to come by and visit you. See how you are doing and how you are fitting in. I see you made good friends with the griffons."

"I have," Spike said. He looks back to the seven Griffons who nods in respect to him and Princess Cadance. 

"Do you have time to hang out, Spike?"

"Sure. I have plenty of time. Come with us to Sugary Skies Bakery for refreshments," Spike said as he smiles. 

"Alright. Mind showing me where Sugary Skies Bakery is at?"

"Follow us," Hydros said. 

The griffons lead the way to Sugary Skies Bakery with Sunny and Indigo. Princess Cadance and Spike are behind the others to have a private chat on the way to Sugary Skies Bakery. 

"So, how are you feeling with your memories fully restored?" Cadance asks. 

"I'm alright. I have different hindsight on who to forgive and who needs to earn the forgiveness from me."

"Will you forgive Twilight and the others?"		  		

"Fluttershy, yes. I forgive her cause she never really done any wrong to me. Out of the six, she's been the kindest to me. I do feel a little guilty for giving her a death stare when I was angry a week and a half ago."

"I can only imagine the emotions you were going through, Spike. I wish I knew how you were feeling."

"It's okay now, Cadance. I made the right decision of running away from Twilight."	

"If you need to talk to me or need me, don't hesitate to send me a message. I'll come as soon as possible for you, Spike."

"Thank you, Cadance."

"You're welcome, Spike. Also, when are you going to forgive Twilight and the rest?"		

Spike sighs heavily. He knows deep down in his heart he'll have to forgive them for the actions they committed. He knows forgiving can be hard to give for those who do wrong. 

"I don't know, to be honest, Cadance," Spike sighs heavily and walks slower. "It's not now, though. I need time to forgive them someday. Right now, I want to enjoy my life with the new friends I made. I want to live my life the way I want to. Only time will tell when I forgive them."

"Fair enough, Spike. I respect your wishes and decision," Cadance said. 

Princess Cadance and Spike hug each other for a minute. Then they caught up with the group at Sugary Skies Bakery. Princess Cadance is the last to enter the bakery. She is overwhelmed with the fresh scent of baked goods. Spike chuckles a bit as Cadance licks her lips. 

"Table for eleven!" Jaybird shouts. 

"Alright, Jaybird. There's a table by the window. I'll bring another table to connect by the window," Sour Sweet said. 

The group goes to the table by the window. Sour pulls another table for everyone to sit together. As they sit, Princess Cadance sits next to Spike. Sour comes up to the group waiting to take their orders. Seeing Princess Cadance in the bakery for the first time, she knows what to get. 

"I'll be right back, everyone," Sour said, going to the kitchen. 

"Hey, wait a minute, she didn't take our orders," Cadance confusingly said. 

"Trust us. You'll enjoy what Sour will bring you, Cadance," Spike said. 

"Okay, then. Can I get a hint of what Sour is giving me?"

"It's something sweet, Cadance."

"Alright, then."	

Princess Cadance tries to think of the possibilities that the bakery has to offer. The different aromas in the bakery made it harder to predict what Sour may give her. Princess Cadance licks her lips as the sensation of something sweet grows. She is eager to try what Sour is making in the kitchen as time goes by. Sour Sweet, Chocolate Pudding, and Truffles Pudding carry plates of ice cream pancakes to the table. The tradition still stands for newcomers in the bakery despite Princess Cadance not being a resident of Pony Central. Princess Cadance looks at the plate of ice cream pancakes. She is curious about this delicious treat. She watches everyone else digs into the ice cream pancake as her mouth starts to water. 

"Go on, Cadance. What are you waiting for?" Spike asks, now starting to eat his ice cream pancake. 

Princess Cadance cuts a piece of the ice cream pancake. She observes closely and wonders how something so simple can satisfy everyone in an instant. She takes a bite and instantly becomes overwhelmed with the sweet taste of the ice cream pancake. Her smile said it all to the others. Cadance eats her pancake happily as the others watch. Spike now sees how his friends reacted when he was overwhelmed with the sweet sensation for the first time. After a few minutes, Cadance finished her meal. She never ate anything that delicious until today. The ice cream pancakes surpass Pinkie's baking. Somewhere in Ponyville, Pinkie Pie has a sudden twisted twitch about her baking capabilities. 

"Alright, I'll admit it. That was the best dessert I ever have in my whole life. Sour Sweet," Cadance said, happily. "I want to say you are a better baker than Pinkie Pie."

"Thank you, Princess."

"You're welcome."

"Also, thank the Pudding Family. It's their recipe after all."

"Thank you, Pudding Family. It was delicious," Princess Cadance said, she bows in respect of the family. 

"The pleasure is ours, your highness," Chocolate Pudding said, he bows in respect and honor to Princess Cadance.

"The meal is free of charge, your highness," Truffles Pudding said. 

"Thank you," Princess Cadance said. 

The group leaves Sugary Skies Bakery. 

"Bye, Spike, Indigo, Sunny, and Princess Cadance. See you all next time," Hydros said. 

Hydros and the griffins fly together, heading back to their homes near the fields. 

"I'll see you around, Spike. See you soon, Indigo. Take care of yourself, Princess Cadance. Hope to see you soon," Sunny said. She waves and flies back home. 

"So, I'm guessing your taking care of Spike for the week, Indigo?"

"Yes, I am."

"Mind if I talk with Spike a bit more? I'll bring him back home to you."

"Sure, why not. Also, Spike can tell you how to find my place in the skies. It's not that far." 	

"Thank you, Indigo."

"You're welcome, Princess Cadance," Indigo salutes to Princess Cadance and flies back home. 

Princess Cadance and Spike walk down in Pony Central talking. As they walk, several ponies bow in respect to Princess Cadance. 

"Spike, are you happy here in Pony Central?"

"Yes, Princess Cadance. I haven't been this happy in a long time."

"Are you saying that to make yourself better? Do you miss living in Ponyville?"

"Cadance, I don't miss Ponyville. I'm not saying to make myself better. I'm happy here in Pony Central. I have new friends and a new family to call too. I'm hanging out, partying, and having fun with friends. Something in which I haven't done much of in Ponyville nor with Twilight Sparkle. I had my first of many adventures. The only thing I haven't done is singing with friends. I'll get to that soon, though. Cadance, I want to let you know that I'm happy here. Pony Central is my home for many years to come."

"I understand, Spike. Thank you for telling me this," Cadance said as she smiles. 

"You're welcome."

Princess Cadance looks at the sky. She knows her visiting time is up, its now time for her to return to the Crystal Empire. 

"Well, Spike. I'll see you soon. I have to go back home now. Shining Armor has other things to attend to."

"Alright, Princess Cadance. Have a safe travel."

"I will, but first," Cadance puts Spike on her back. "I have to take you back to Indigo Zap," Cadance stretches her wings and flies in the skies. 

Spike directs Princess Cadance to Indigo's house on the clouds. She lands in front of Sky High Paradise. 

"Thank you, Cadance," Spike said. He gets off of her back. 

"You're welcome, Spike. See you next time," Cadance said as she flies to the train station. 

Spike walks to the door and opens it only to find out it's locked. Then he knocks on the door. He hears Indigo coming closer and opens the door. 

"Hey, Spike. Had a good talk with Princess Cadance?"

"I did, Indigo," Spike enters the house. "So, any plans for tonight?"

"Hmm, not really. Also, if you want, you can ride down the slide if you want to walk around Pony Central at night."

"I don't have wings yet. How would the slide work?" Spike confusingly asks. 

"While you were talking with Princess Cadance, I decided to combine several clouds to create a longer slide for you. You'll have a foot drop at the end of the slide."

"Okay. So, how would I get up here after my visit down there?"

"There is a hot air balloon for traveling. I'm pretty sure you'll ride it back here. If not, there are other pegasi and griffins which should have no problem bringing you here. We are neighbors and do help each other a lot."

"Alright then, I'll go for a nice walk down here later tonight. Maybe I'll have the chance to talk with Raven Nightwalker at the Pine Tree Library."

"Sounds good, Spike." 		

Spike walks two flights where his room is and takes a nap. Indigo goes to the music room and relax on the bean bag chair. She listens to her music as she relaxes. She hopes that tomorrow's training will be good for Spike and she hopes Spike doesn't get an injury during an intense flying drill she's been wanting to do for a long time.  Only time will tell for what happens tomorrow morning.
> Luna's Lesson
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Royal Guards fly Princess Luna and Twilight Sparkle to Ponyville. For Twilight, it feels like a deja vu except, for one thing, Spike isn't with her. Twilight's heart pounds fast. She is unsure about learning the full meaning of Luna's lesson for today. Princess Luna meditates on the subject for today and hopes it'll give Twilight a better insight for becoming the next ruler of Equestria. The Royal Guards land in Ponyville. Princess Luna and Twilight thank them as they fly off. Everypony in Ponyville is happy to see Twilight once more. Princess Luna commands everypony to distance themselves from them. She told everyone that their visit is of utmost importance and she doesn't want to be disturbed. Everyone groans and goes their separate ways. Princess Luna walks to the remains of the Golden Oak Library. Twilight follows Luna while having butterflies in her stomach. 

"What do you see here, Twilight Sparkle?" Princess Luna question. 

"My home...destroyed..." Twilight said. She shed a few tears as she gazes at the structure.  

"Look deeper, Twilight. Not with your eyes. Tell me what you see."

"I see..." Twilight pounders on what to say. All she sees is her home torn apart. "All I see is my home torn apart, Princess Luna," Twilight lowers her head in sadness. 

"What I see is a powerful, wretched creature creating havoc off of selfish desires. This building is a remnant of what selfish desires can cause. Selfish desires lead to certain doom."  

Twilight sighs heavily. She allowed her selfish desire to ruin someone she loves dearly. Now she will never see him again. She knows it deep down in her heart. 

"Why are you telling me this, Princess Luna?"

"Reflecting on the past can open many doors, Twilight. Holding onto the past, however, disables you from moving forward. Learning this lesson takes time, understanding it will help you make better decisions as a Princess," Luna said, calmly.  

"How would it help me make better decisions, Luna?" 

"Instead of thinking out of stress and pressure, humble yourself," Luna looks at the skies. "The realism of daunting tasks and current events will get the better of everyone," Luna looks down at Twilight. "It is up to you for how you cope with it. If you choose to worry, you'll miss something as you'll be clouding your mind with misjudgment. If you humble yourself, the answer to any problem will come clear."

"Are you humble enough when you face the daunting task of handling Daybreaker?"

"My decision on Daybreaker will not be an easy one once she is defeated. The answer is clear for what I must do for all of Equestria," Princess Luna said. She gazes at the ponies going along with their day. "Do you see my worried when I confronted you at your room?"

Twilight looks at Luna. Princess Luna is calm and steady.

"But, you told me that your mind is at disarray back at the Castle. How can you not be worried when Daybreaker is on the loose?"

"I did. I told you that my mind is at war with the decision to make towards my sister. However, I didn't tell you this; When I'm alone, the war in my mind clouds my concentration. When I'm with my fellow ponies, I see their eyes. I see how happy they are. My mind is at peace for what I have to do. It will still be an uneasy feeling when the time does come. I put all of Equestria first before myself. It's about the safety of my fellow ponies and not selfish desire. Also, I can't afford to be worried at any time. Anything can happen at any given point. That is why I have to be ready. I have to be strong. If I worry then everything will fall apart, all of Equestria will be doomed to suffer from all evil tyranny."

Twilight looks down. She thought of herself when it came to Spike. Never seeing him happy or thinking of him more. She put herself first then friends. Twilight slaps herself in the face for her foolish desires and decisions. Tears stream down on her face in the realization of Luna's teachings already. She starts questioning herself mentally. Will she be ready? Will she be strong for others? How can she when she is struggling already? More questions cloud her mind. She envisions all of Equestria destroyed by Daybreaker, her friends scorched, Spike, burning alive. Twilight quickly shakes her head and wants to stop envisioning the possibility if she were to fail as a Princess.

"Twilight?" Luna asks. She is worried that Twilight may be getting the wrong message. "Twilight?" Twilight is in a trance. Princess Luna sees a bucket of water nearby. She uses her magic to levitate the bucket of water to splash Twilight. Twilight shakes her head now that she's out of the trance state she created. "Twilight, are you alright?"

"I am now, Luna. Sorry, I imagined what Equestria would have looked like if I were to fail as a Princess. I made myself see the horrors of what Daybreaker can do if I wasn't ready."

"I understand. The level and concepts of being a Princess are never easy. Princess Celestia failed you in that department. She allowed you to learn on your own. Something in which I was totally against."	

"So," Twilight wipes her eyes from the tears. "What's next on your lesson?"

"A trip to the Castle of the Two Sisters."

"Why there?"

"Not only for you to see the Tree of Harmony to reflect but for me to show you more on today's subject."

"Alright. Can I see my friends today, Princess Luna?"

Princess Luna looks at Twilight Sparkle and shakes her head. Twilight wanted to see her friends but understood the motives for today. She's here to learn, not to be distracted. 

"I'll allow you to visit your friends for another day. Right now, you are here to learn. I am here to teach. It's a school day for you, Twilight."

Princess Luna and Twilight Sparkle trot into the Everfree Forest. On the way there, Twilight couldn't help but see Fluttershy's cottage. She can hear Discord and Fluttershy laughing while they are having a tea party. She wishes to join them. Twilight continues to follow Luna to the Castle of the Two Sisters. She starts having flashbacks of revealing the truth to everyone about her agreement with Discord, a mistake she'll never make again. Then the two arrive at the Castle of the Two Sisters. They walk down the stairs and enter the cave where the Tree of Harmony is. 

"Twilight," Luna asks, calmly. 

"Y-Y-Yes, Luna?" Twilight feels uncomfortable being in the presence of the Tree of Harmony. 

"What do you see?"

Twilight starts shaking, sweating, and panting uncontrollably. Luna can see Twilight struggling with her answer. Luna walks up to Twilight. 

"Calm down, Twilight."

"C-C-Calm down! H-How can I calm down?! I'm standing at Ground Zero! My friends finding the truth about my soul-binding agreement, Princess Celestia turning into Daybreaker cause of me, and the Elements of Harmony seeing my friends and I, unworthy. I corrupted a friendship, Luna. I'm supposed to be the Princess of Friendship. Might as well call me the Princess of Fiendship," Twilight said, angrily. She pants heavily out of frustration.

Princess Luna looks down on Twilight. 

"I understand your frustrations. Princess Celestia made her mistake when her anger got the better of her. Anger is a weapon that'll put us in difficult situations when it's uncontrolled. Anger is fuel. We as Princesses cannot allow anger to get the better of us, Twilight. Anger leads to vengeance. Vengeance does not succeed. When I was corrupt with anger, I wanted vengeance and, I did not succeed. It was you who and your friends that defeated me as Nightmare Moon. Discord wanted vengeance. He was defeated. Sombra wanted vengeance. He was defeated."

"I understand, Luna. I see the pattern of those who are fueled by anger."

"Daybreaker wants vengeance, soon enough, she'll face defeat. Justice prevails every time."

"I was angry because I wanted Spike back. Princess Celestia forbade me from seeing and writing to Spike. Originally, she allowed me to have a second chance to have Spike back. After I lost control of myself, I wanted Spike back no matter what it took. Fueled by anger and grief, I ought to make an agreement with Discord. I lied to everyone, then the truth was revealed at this very place. I allowed my anger, frustrations, and sorrow to get the better of me," Twilight said. She starts to calm down. 		

"Good Twilight. You are taking the first steps of healing yourself."

"Princess Luna," Twilight looks at Luna. She stares at her eyes. "I vow, to never allow anger to fuel me no matter how hard it will be."

"Thank you, Twilight," Luna said, smiling at her student.

"Princess Luna."

"Yes, Twilight?"

"I see change, here in the presence of the Tree of Harmony. Change, in the sense of power, friendships, and healing. I was afraid of coming here knowing about my regrets; instead, I came here to conquer my past and heal."

Princess Luna smiles. She does see a change in Twilight's perspective. Luna sees Twilight going deep within herself to find the answers she needs to understand better.

"Come, Twilight. Time to enter the castle."

Princess Luna and Twilight fly out of the cave and into the castle. Princess Luna trots to the throne of the Two Sisters. Twilight remembers this place from Zecora's potion. Twilight now predicts what Luna may say. 

"This is my Ground Zero, Twilight Sparkle. I turned into Nightmare Moon due to my anger. Jealousy can become a weapon for those who feel unlucky."  

"The anger was from Princess Celestia, Luna. It isn't yours, though."

"You're right. It wasn't mine. However, if I humbled myself when I was younger during that time, things would have been different. I wasn't humble in the slightest, Twilight. During my time, I was more arrogant than humble. Other emotions can blindside anger and take control. I allowed it to happen. Then I was banished to the moon for a thousand years. Do not be blinded by other emotions to fuel the anger. My lesson for you, Twilight, is to humble yourself. Take as much time as you need. Do not fret, don't succumb to anger, reflect with your memories; do not neglect."

"I will, Princess Luna. Will it be okay if I were to stay in Ponyville for a while?"

Princess Luna looks at Twilight and shakes her head once more.

"Not today, Twilight Sparkle. My lesson of the day is over. Your homework is to reflect everything in your life and humble it. Your next lesson will start soon. I'll let you know ahead of time," Princess Luna said calmly.

"I understand, Princess Luna."

"Good. Let's go back to Canterlot." 

Princess Luna and Twilight leave the Castle of the Two Sisters. They trot out of the Everfree Forest and fly to Canterlot. On the way to Canterlot, Twilight couldn't help but gaze on Ponyville. Hoping to see her friends as she flies. She sees Pinkie Pie waving at her. She waves back at Pinkie. Twilight feels a little sad knowing she is unable to see her friends but is for the right reason. She's learning to become a better Princess. Not to play games. Twilight hopes to see her friends soon whether it be in Canterlot or Ponyville.
> Shining's Visit
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's now 7:00 at night. Princess Cadance gets off the train at the Crystal Empire. She sees Shining Armor galloping to the station to board the train to Canterlot. Princess Cadance orders the conductor to hold the train for a few minutes. He complies and waits for Shining Armor. 

"Thanks for doing that, Cadance," Shining said. He gives Cadance a quick kiss on the lips. 

"You're welcome, my love."

"We'll talk more when I come back home."

"Sounds good, Shining. Have fun with your meetup with Princess Luna."

"I will," Shining boards the train. Princess Cadance flies to the castle as the train leaves. 

On the train ride to Canterlot, Shining Armor looks at the Equestrian Map. He and a few squadrons are in search of Daybreaker's location. During Spike's days in his comatose stasis, Shining Armor and Princess Luna conducted teams to search for Daybreaker. From the Crystal Guards squadron with the Royal Guards, they search high and low in remote areas of Equestria. The train stops at Galloping Gorge. A Crystal Guard squadron boards the train and sits with Shining Armor as the train starts leaving. 

"Shining Armor, Sir," Amethyst said, saluting to Shining Armor.

"At ease, Amethyst. Status report." 

"No sighting of Daybreaker near Galloping Gorge, Sir."

"What about Unicorn Range and Smokey Mountains?"

"Nay, Sir. There was a recent activity near the Sal Palomino Desert. We sent some of the other Crystal Guards to investigate the activity at Sal Palomino Desert, Sir."

"Good. Making progress to tell Princess Luna. Hopefully, the activity near the Sal Palomino Desert is nothing more than a tourist visitation or a research team."
"We won't know until further notice, Shining Armor."

"How long ago you sent some of the Crystal Guards to Sal Palomino Desert, Amethyst?"

"Last night, Shining Armor. There was a huge crowd of ponies heading to Sal Palomino Desert. We don't know why a large group of ponies wanting to go to the desert last night, Sir."	

"Hmm, could be a group activity or something. I want a full report of the investigation at Sal Palomino Desert for the next meeting with Princess Luna, Amethyst."

"Yes, Sir!"	

In an hour, the train stops in Canterlot. Shining Armor and the Crystal Guards leave the train and trot to Luna's castle. On the way there, Shining can see an increase in security in Canterlot. Princess Luna takes priorities seriously. The Royal Guards nod in respect to Shining Armor. Two Royal Guards stand aside once Shining Armor and the Crystal Guards made it in front of the castle. They enter and see Discord walking with Princess Luna. 

"Hi, Discord. Hi, Princess Luna."

"Hey, Shining Armor," Discord and Luna said. 

"Ready for the meeting?"

"Yes. The meeting shall commence," Luna said. 

"Has the Royal Guards made it back from their search?"

"Nay, Shining Armor. My Royal Guards has not come back. No updates and reports on their search."

"Alright, then. The meeting won't start for another half hour. Hey, Luna?" 

"Yes, Shining?"

"Is Twilight here or in Ponyville?"

"She's residing here, Shining Armor. However, I don't want you to see her until the meeting is over. She has homework and studying."

"Homework?" Shining said, raising an eyebrow. 

"Yes. I gave my first Princess lesson to Twilight earlier today. She's on the path to humble herself first. Right now, she's reflecting on her past. She could be taking notes on the good, the bad, and the ugly as we speak."

"How is she coping with everything that has happened so far, Luna?"

"Twilight is handling things differently. She swore to never corrupt a Friendship again. She still has Spike on her mind, wanting a real chance to redeem herself. It'll take time for that to happen. Also, I've been in touch with Spike."

"How is he, Luna?"

"He's alright as far as I can say. He's on his path in life with his new friends. He's happy and will need time to forgive his former friends someday. Right now, he's focused on creating new memories and becoming the dragon he wants to be."

"Good, I'll know more from Princess Cadance. She went to see Spike, today."

"How nice, Shining," Luna said. 

"Hey, Discord?"

"Yea, Shining?"

"How are you holding up?"

"I'm okay with my friends except for Twilight Sparkle. I'm in the midst with her in my mind after what she'd committed."

"I understand. Twily has a problem that comes from our dad's side of the family. Twily will go great lengths to get what she desires."

"No fooling. When Twilight found and used the book of Deal With a Discorded, I was shocked that she would use it to get Spike back. She of all ponies in Equestria to make a soul-binding agreement with me. Creating Disharmony in the process to get what she wants. She has a lot to learn about letting go to see the bigger picture." Discord states.

"Twilight has much more to learn as a Princess. I'll continue to educate her until I see her fitting to go out and learn on her own."

"How did you learn, Princess Luna?" Shining asks.

"I had my help from a wise pony that watch me grow. It wasn't my demented sister but somepony else."

"Who, Luna?" Shining and Discord asks.

"Grim."

"Who's Grim?" Shining and Discord asks, curiously.

"She's special to me and very helpful. It's all I can say, for now, that is."

"Fair enough, Luna," Shining said.

"Grim Reaper?"

"Somewhat, Draqonecuus. It's hard to explain."

"Alright, then. I won't ask any more of it. Right now, I'll see you two in the meeting room," Discord said.

"Will Twilight be present in the meeting room, Luna?"

"Not yet. Twilight needs to become a better Princess first, right now, she's not stable yet. I don't want her sneaking off and trying to fix things without planning. I know she wants to redeem herself fast to show Spike she's changed for the better. Princess Celestia failed Twilight on teaching her to become a Princess. I won't fail Twilight. I'll do everything I can to help her become the Princess she needs to be."

"Thank you, Luna."

"You're welcome, Shining. Now, let's get to the meeting room. We have a lot to discuss."

A half-hour later, Princess Luna and Shining Armor trot to the meeting room. Inside the meeting room, delegates of both the Shadowbolts and Wonderbolts are sitting by the table. Discord is hovering above the table. Spitfire and Dashing Bullet come through the window. They sit with their teams until Princess Luna and Shining Armor arrive. In a few moments, Princess Luna and Shining Armor arrive in the meeting room. Two Royal Guards stand in attention outside of the meeting room. 

"Alright, everypony. It's time to start the meeting. Any sight, reports on Daybreaker?" Shining Armor asks out loud. 

Amethyst stands first to speak. Everypony stares at the purple crystal pony, giving her their full attention. 

"My name is Amethyst, Captain of my Crystal Guard squadron in search of Daybreaker. As I mentioned to Shining Armor on the train ride to Canterlot, my team and I have not spotted Daybreaker in Galloping Gorge, Unicorn Range, and Smokey Mountains. We did notice some activity by the Sal Palomino Desert. I sent some Crystal Guards to investigate last night. I should have a full report on the investigation in a day or so."

"Thank you, Amethyst," Luna said, respectively. "Anyone else has something to report?"

Spitfire raises her hoof. "I do, Princess Luna."	

"Please, speak."

"Some of my fliers have reported a disturbance with a dragon recently. The dragon refuses to talk to us about his troubling issues. We believe it could be signs of Daybreaker's presence or something worse. We don't have the analysis just yet, your highness."

"Hmm, Dashing Bullet?"

"Yes, Princess Luna?"

"Can your Griffin Shadowbolt squad interview the disturbed dragon?"

"Griffon, what?" Spitfire asks confusingly. 

"Oh, that's right, Spitfire. You don't allow other creatures that can fly to join the Wonderbolts."

"You better watch your tongue Bullet before I rip it off!" Spitfire raising a hoof at Dashing Bullet.

"Enough!" Princess Luna slams her hooves down hard on the table, cracking it in half along with the floor. Dashing Bullet and Spitfire quiet down a bit. "This is not the time nor the place to be bickering. Do I make myself clear?!" Luna angrily said.

"Yes, your highness," Spitfire and Dashing Bullet said in unison.

Princess Luna takes a deep breath to calm herself. Everyone in the room looks at Luna cautiously except for Discord. They now know this is one Princess not to upset. 

"Apologies for my bickering, Princess Luna. I will send a Griffin squad to interview the dragon. Dragons and Griffins are on better terms than ponies."

"Thank you, Dashing Bullet."

Shining Armor stands. He uses his magic to levitate a map of Equestria he's been using to track. Everyone and draqonecuus now give Shining Armor their full attention.

"Alright, everyone. The following locations have been searched and crossed out. Galloping Gorge, Smokey Mountains, Unicorn Range, Neighagra Falls, Ruins, Bogg, and Ghastly Gorge. We need to start searching in populated cities. There can be secret passages or underground areas that Daybreaker can be hiding until the timing is right. We'll continue to investigate other remote areas as well. Report to Princess Cadance or Luna of your findings. The next meeting will take place at the Crystal Empire, one week from today."

Everyone nods in agreement. 

"Should the new wielders of the Elements and Spike know of this?" Discord asks. 

Princess Luna takes a few moments to think. The others in the room start questioning as well. 

"Not just yet, Discord. Our new wielders need time to recollect themselves after recent events. In a few weeks, I will write to Spike and have him tell the others about our progress with Daybreaker so they can prepare themselves. Right now, everything we say stays with us. Do not bring the subject with anypony else. Do I make myself clear?" Princess Luna calmly states. 

"Yes, Princess." Everyone said in unison. 

"Good. Meeting dismissed." 

Everypony except Shining Armor, Discord, and Princess Luna leave the meeting room. The two Royal Guards escort everypony to the front doors.

"Thank you for being here, Shining and Discord." 

"You're welcome, Princess Luna. Always happy to be in assistance," Shining said. 

"Before you go and see Twilight, Shining. There is something else that you need to see," Discord said. 

"What is it?"

"Follow us, Shining."

Princess Luna and Discord lead the way down the corridors. Luna opens a hidden door that leads down to the secretive library. The door shuts behind them as they enter. Shining Armor has never seen this library in all the years he worked at the castle. He starts questioning about the room. 

"Shining Armor, what Discord and I will show you must remain a secret. No pony else except your wife can know of the area."

"I understand. I make a solemn promise to never speak of this to anyone but my wife."

Discord and Princess Luna use their magic to deactivate the chaotic magical barrier, open the safe, and take a copy of D.W.A.D. Discord is holding onto the book. He turns to Shining Armor. 

"Shining Armor. Memorize the image of this book."

Shining Armor uses his magic to take the book from Discord. He examines the book but doesn't open it. He gives it back to Discord.

"Now what?" Shining asks, curiously.

"That book you examined, Shining, is called Deal With A Discorded."

Shining's eyes widen in shock and breathes heavily. 

"That book is,"

"Yes, Shining Armor. The same book your younger sister used to make a soul-binding agreement with me."

"I don't think I can read it... Why are you showing me that book?"

"If you or Cadance happens to find the book, you can alert us of it so we can store it away forever," Luna said. 

"We can't have Daybreaker find the book and use it for evil purposes and domination. I am bound by the book to do whatever the wielder says. If we lock the books forever, then Daybreaker would not be powerful enough to destroy Harmony and Friendship," Discord said. 

"Will Twily know of this?"

"No," Discord said. 

"Nay," Luna said. 

"Twilight doesn't deserve to know this information. She crossed the line to oblivion for making a soul-binding agreement with me. Not only she made things worse with Spike, but she also screwed her friends out of using the Elements of Harmony. She has a long road ahead of her to redeem herself. She lost some privileges as being a Princess."

"Fair enough. I won't say a word of this library."

"Thank you, Shining," Discord said as he places the book back in the safe. 

"You may see Twilight Sparkle now, Shining Armor. Discord and I will have certain matters to attend to."

"Alright, then." 

Princess Luna and Discord uses their magic to enable the chaotic magical barrier. Discord flies through the ceiling to prepare himself for another night of Nightmare Patrol in the dream realm. Shining Armor leaves the secretive Library. He trots down the corridors looking for a Royal Guard. He asks the Royal Guard to escort him to Twilight's room. After a few minutes, the Royal Guard go his separate way. Shining Armor knocks on the door. 

"One minute, please!" Twilight shouts. 

In Twilight's room, she has notes scattered everywhere of today's lesson. She wasn't expecting any visitations so she's clearing as much room as she can. Her state of mind is erratic, something in which she needs a better control to become a better Princess. After she cleans up a bit, she opens the door to see Shining Armor. 

"Big Bro!" Twilight hugs Shining Armor. Shining Armor returns the hug. 

"Hey, Twily. Can I come in?"

"Of course you can!"

The two enter the room and Twilight closes the door. 

"So, how are you doing, Twily?"

"I'm okay for the time being. Princess Luna gave me her first Princess Lesson. As you see, I have a lot of notes in today's lesson."

"I see. How are you coping overall, Twily?"

"Not well, Shining. I screwed up. I made a mess of things, screwed my friends out of the Elements of Harmony, screwed my bond with Spike, and made things worse for all of Equestria. Princess Celestia turned to Daybreaker because of my actions. All of Equestria can be doomed. I have a lot on my shoulder, Shining. I have a war in my mind that's eating me alive. I don't know what to do."

"Give yourself time, Twily. Accept how things are now to focus on bettering yourself. I believe you'll become a great Princess someday."

"Thank you, Big Bro," Twilight hugs Shining Armor. 

"You're welcome, sis."

After the hug, Shining Armor leaves Twilight's room and heads to the front gates. He is now on his way back to the Crystal Empire. Somewhere in the outskirts of the Sal Palomino Desert, five Crystal Guards are captured and taken to the cave where Daybreaker resides. Daybreaker uses her magic to bind the Crystal Guards. 

"What a nice surprise, visitors from the Crystal Empire."

The Crystal Guards glare at Daybreaker. Not making a sound as she speaks. 

"What are you doing? Looking for me?" Daybreaker devilishly smile. 

"That is none of your concerns, demon!" 

"Well, it is. You are trespassing, after all. Now let's see what's inside." 

The Crystal Guards panicked as Daybreaker uses her magic to read their minds. After knowing what's in their heads, Daybreaker plot something sinister.

"You have two choices, join me or death."			

"We choose death!" The Crystal Guards said in unison. Daybreaker smiles.

"Death it is," Daybreaker uses her magic to corrupt their minds into thinking they are dead. Instead, Daybreaker is now controlling them like puppets. The Crystal Guards bow in respect to their Dominant God of Equestria. "You are now my insiders, my fellow ponies. You will see and report to me Shining's and Luna's advances. Do not let your guard down and do not let them notice a change in behavior. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, your highness," The Crystal Guards said in unison. 

"Wonderful," Daybreaker starts laughs maniacally as her fellow ponies start chanting Dies Irae, Gloria in Excelsis.
> Spike's Night
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It is now 7:00 at night. Spike is waking up from a long nap he took. He leaves the room and goes down two flights to the kitchen where he sees Indigo, munching on an apple. 

"Hey, Spike. Had a good nap?" Indigo takes another bite of the apple. 

"I did. The bed is very comfortable. I don't think I ever slept on a pillow bed before. I can get used to that." 

"Good, Spike," Indigo takes another bite finishing the apple. 

"So, you have anything planned for tonight?" Spike asks, curiously.

"Not really, Spike." 

"Oh, that's right. You mentioned that earlier. So, what you want to do?"

"I want to relax for the rest of the night, Spike. Tomorrow is a big day to train at Foal Mountain."

"Oh," Spike said. He's a little sad but understands. 

"Well, if you want Spike, you can hang out down below. I did make the slide for you on the third floor just for you. You can see and meet up with our friends or the new ones you made recently."

"I'll do just that," Spike said. 

"Great and remember, there is a balloon that can bring you back up or ask a pegasus or griffin to fly you back here, Spike."

"I will. Thanks for the reminder," Spike said. He goes to Indigo and hugs her. Spike walks back up the stairs to the third floor, then enters the empty room. "Alright, I remember the middle window has a short slide. Now, which window has my slide heading into town," Spike said. He opens the left window and sees a different slide. "Found it." Before Spike gets on, he goes to his room and grabs a pouch of bits. Then he returns to the room and gets on his slide. Spike takes a deep breath and pushes himself. 

Spike slides down fast. The slide has all sorts of twists and turns to make it enjoyable for him. Spike screams joyfully, enjoying the slide down like it was a rollercoaster. The slide has an up and down wave to slow his speed when he's near the ground. At the end of the slide, Spike lands on his feet safely. Now, he can't wait to ride down the slide again. 

"I'll admit, that was exhilarating. I'll have to thank Indigo when I return to Sky High Paradise."

Spike walks around Pony Central in hopes of finding his friends walking around. Spike looks around and decides to pay a visit to the Pine Tree Library. As he approaches the library, he sees Raven Nightwalker trotting up to the library.

"Hi, Raven," Spike waves at Raven. 

"Hi, Spike," Raven responds. She is wearing a dark purple hoodie.

"So, you have the night off?" Spike asks curiously. 

"No. I have a nightshift to bring in the rain tonight. My shift starts in an hour so, I'm here to kill time reading. Wanna join me?"

"Sure."

Raven Nightwalker knocks on the door. Sugarcoat opens the door and sees Raven and Spike. 

"Welcome back, Raven. Hi, Spike."

"Hi, Sugarcoat."

"Thanks, Sugarcoat."

The two enter the library as Sugarcoat closes the door. 

"I'll be going to the nighttime reader's section, Sugarcoat."

"That's fine as usual, Raven," Sugarcoat turns to Spike. "How are you doing, Spike?"

"I'm well, Sugarcoat. I'm here hanging with Raven for a while."

"Alright, then. I'll let the two of you be. If you need anything, let me know."

"Thanks, Sugarcoat."

Raven takes Spike to the nighttime reader's section in the basement. There are dozen of shelves with books. Raven Nightwalker grabs her book, walks to a table nearby, and sits. Spike follows, grabs a chair to sit across from her.	

"So, what kind of book you're reading, Raven?"

"A dark book full of dark, tragic, unfortunate events," Raven said calmly.

"So, uh," Spike ponders a bit. "Why are you drawn to dark books?" 

"Good question," Raven replies calmly. "I channel my emotions and expressions differently when I was growing up. At one point, I was more a cheerful girl. Next thing I know, I enter a phase that everything around me feels like nothing to me. I embraced the dark more than the light."

"So, are you gothic?"

"Somewhat, Spike."

"Alright, then."

"So, are you enjoying your stay in Pony Central?" Raven asks, emotionlessly. 

"I am. Pony Central has been kind to me ever since I came, except for that one incident with my former friends. That's one night I wish didn't happen."

"Sorry to hear about your former friends. Glad that Pony Central is treating you nicely."

"Hey, Raven?"

"Yea?"

"Were you born here in Pony Central?"

"No. A few years ago, I decided to leave my family. They were a bit abusive to me when I was younger."

"Sorry to hear, Raven."

"It's fine. I have my books, job, and friends. It's all I need."	

Spike puts some pieces together and understands about Raven Nightwalker a bit. The abuse had to change her from cheerful to dull or probably has to be something else she isn't saying.

"Would your sudden change from cheerful to dull had to do with the abuse you suffered from your family?"

Raven sighs heavily. "Yes, unfortunately. I wish not to speak any further about my past. I moved on from it."

"Understood, sorry for asking."

"I'm flattered you asked, Spike. Not many friends of mine would have asked me that," Raven said. She smiles a bit. 

"Why haven't your friends ask you that question, Raven?" Spike questions out of curiosity. 

"They don't ask because of my personality. Calm, emotionless, not enthusiastic, and bright. I respect my friends for not asking cause it's their choice as well. I don't see it as being a problem. Just a day of living life."

"Well, then I'll be the first to ask you those kinds of questions from time to time. You do need a friend with a better understanding."

"Thanks, Spike."

"So, why you chose to be a nighttime weather pony?"

"I prefer working during the night cause it's peaceful at nighttime. It's quiet and subtle. I can't help but stargaze as I work as well. I enjoy seeing Princess Luna's night. Seeing all sorts of stars, constellations, comets, shooting stars; you name it, I enjoy looking."

"Princess Luna will be happy to know you are a night owl follower. Something she hasn't had in a long time."

"Someday, I would like to meet her and bow in respect to my favorite Princess," Raven smiles a bit more. 

"I do see Luna often, Raven. I can arrange a day for her to come."

"You can do that?" Raven said. She is shocked to hear what Spike is saying. 

"Sure, it's not a problem."

"Thanks, Spike," Raven puts the book away and focuses her time talking with Spike. 

"You're welcome. What are friends for?"

A cheerful side of Raven comes back for the first time in a long time. She is smiling more than she has in years. A feeling that she thought will never come back. The excitement of seeing Princess Luna someday excites her even more. She looks at Spike, smiling more. 

"You have a nice smile, Raven. You should smile more." 				

"I think I will," Raven reply calmly. 

"Good. It's good to smile," Spike said as he smiles.

Raven grabs the book she set aside and brings it to Sugarcoat's desk. Spike follows Raven. 

"I'll be taking this book for the next three days, Sugarcoat."

"Alright, then. Have fun reading the book."

"I will." 

Raven carries the book to the Weather Command Station. Spike follows her there. The two enter and see Star Bolt taking charge of the nightshift team. 

"Star Bolt? What happened with Dashing Bullet? She's supposed to be with us for the night," Raven asks. 

"I see you're in a better spirit, Raven. Also, Dashing Bullet has a meeting tonight so, I'm in charge of the night. Hi, Spike."	

"Hi, Star Bolt."

"Alright, Sir. Also, I brought Spike with me so he can see us nighttime fliers work. In case he may want to work with us when he grows his wings."

"Excellent decision, Raven. Are you sure you don't want to become a Shadowbolt? You have the intellect of becoming one."	

"I'm fine where I'm at, Sir. Also, I'll miss my chance to stargaze during the night."

"Fairly understandable, Raven. Since you brought Spike here, he's your responsibility."

"I will, Star Bolt."

"Good. See you in the skies, Raven."

Raven takes Spike to the locker room. She puts the book she borrowed in her locker. 

"Uh, should I close my eyes to give you privacy as you change, Raven?"

"No," Raven sighs calmly. "You see ponies and griffins naked all the time. There is no shame of seeing another creature change. Plus, I'm wearing what I need already."

"Alright, then. I had to make sure, is all."	

"Silly, dragon," Raven pats Spike on his head. 

Raven takes Spike to the back where the other nighttime fliers are. Star Bolt meets up with the rest of the team after gathering some paperwork.

"Alright, Raven's squadron. You'll bring the rain over by Zesty Fields. Continuous rain for two nights. Thunder Bolt's squadron. You'll bring the rain to the fields of Pony Central. Continuous rain for two nights as well. The rest of you, scatter and bring the rain all over Pony Central."

"Yes, Sir!" Everyone shouts in unison. 

"Let's fly!" Star Bolt spreads his wings wide and flies. 

"Get on my back, Spike."

"Alright," Spike gets on Raven's back.

"Let's move every flier," Raven said as she takes flight. 

Raven's squad grabs the clouds in the sky and fly to Zesty Fields. On the way there, Spike stargazes and sees a shooting star. He quietly makes a wish then smiles. Spike looks around him to see the formation of fliers carrying the clouds. It's different from what Rainbow Dash and other pegasi when they brought in the rain. 

"Hey, Raven."

"Yea, Spike?"

"So how long will it take for you and your team to place the rain clouds in Zesty Fields?"

"20 minutes to be precise. Not only we bring clouds in, but we also tend to inspect the trees for loose branches. Zesty Fields has a lot of trees. One thing the Zest family has asked was to inspect the tree branches every time we bring the rain."

"Makes sense to me. Back in Ponyville, the unicorns and earth ponies clean up while the Pegasi brought in the rain."

"Well, that's Ponyville and their system. We have ours in Pony Central. Whenever we are needed to bring in snow or rain, we inspect the land and trees, first if things are critical, we clean and work things out, if not then go as scheduled."

In 20 minutes, Raven and her squad finished placing the clouds all around Zesty Fields. She and her team inspect the trees and cut loose branches swiftly. A few fliers decide to take some lemons from the branches they cut. Raven's squadron notices their captain's expression as she works. There different than usual. A green pegasus with a yellow mane flies to Raven to have a small chat. 

"Raven, is everything alright?" 

"Yes, Emerald, why you ask?"		

"Normally, you don't smile as much. We are curious to know the sudden mood change is all, ma'am."	

The rest of Raven's squad nod as well. 

"Well, I opened myself to my friend, Spike. Something of him made me want to speak about some parts of me. I felt a presence that brought a piece of me that I lost years ago."

"Wow, Raven. What kind of presence would that happened to be?" Emerald asks. 

"Something magical, I would say. I don't know, to be honest."

"Fair enough. We have a vacant castle over there after learning what went down, so anything is possible."

Spike overhears the magical presence part. He has a sudden urge to write to Luna. Maybe she can provide some clarifications. Spike starts remembering the magic power he hence from the Tree of Harmony. Did some of its magic stay with him after he transferred it to Luna? Did the Tree of Harmony give Spike a unique gift to bring back feelings or those who lost it? He remembers seeing Raven and how she barely smiled or show emotions. Now she's expressing them. Spike clutches his claw to feel the magic the best way or at least channel it. After several attempts, he's unable to. 

Another 10 minutes pass. Raven's squadron jump on the clouds, activating the raining sequence. Every flier flies back to the Weather Command Station. Raven gives Spike an umbrella then picks him up. Raven flies back to the Weather Command Station. On the way there, Spike couldn't stop thinking about a possible gift the Tree of Harmony gave him a while back. Raven starts to worry about Spike's silence.

"Spike, are you alright? You seem quiet."

"Oh, um, I'm fine, Raven. Just thinking is all."

"What are you thinking about?"

"It's about what you mentioned to that Emerald flier, earlier. About you feeling a magical presence or something when we talked back at the library. It has me thinking about a possible gift the Tree of Harmony may have given me or not."

"Gift?" Raven asks. She's confused and curious about what Spike meant by gift. "What do you mean by, gift?"	

"Well, a few days ago, I learned a horrible truth. My former friends who used to wield the Elements of Harmony are no longer worthy due to how poorly they treated and handled me. The Tree of Harmony has chosen my friends to become the next wielders during Tirek's short reign on Equestria. The Tree of Harmony granted me magic to wield the Element of Magic. After Tirek's defeat and restoring the magic he stole, a new villain rises from the ashes. It was then I transferred the magic given to me from the Tree to Princess Luna, however, she escaped," Spike said, angrily. 

"Who's she?" Raven asks nervously. 

"A monster born in the ashes to rule all of Equestria with an iron hoof. She calls herself, Daybreaker."

"Wow," Raven said, fearfully. She's shocked by the name.

"Anyways, after I transferred my magic to Luna, she became the new wielder of the Element of Magic. Next thing I know, I pass out. Since then, I haven't thought about having any magic from the Tree of Harmony, until tonight that is."				

"So, how are you going to find out if you have the gift or not?" 

"I'm gonna write to Princess Luna so she and I can come up with a plausible solution."

"Good idea."

Raven lands in front of the Weather Command Station. Every flier made it back safely except for those who flew home. Star Bolt comes last shaking off the rainwater. They all enter the building.

"That should do it," Star Bolt gets every fliers' attention. "The clouds are here to stay for two days straight. Only raining during the night."

"Excuse me, Star Bolt."

"Yes, Spike?"

"Do you have some paper and quill lying around? I need to write a letter."

"Sure, come with me."

Star Bolt takes Spike to his office. He grabs some paper and quill for Spike to write. 

"Here you go, Spike," Star Bolt said as he pats Spike's head with his wing. He leaves his office. 

Spike takes a deep breath and starts writing. 

"Dear Princess Luna,

Earlier tonight, I talked with a pegasus named Raven Nightwalker. I learned that she was once cheerful before turning dull due to the abuse she suffered from her family. As I talked with her, she started to change in front of me. She started smiling a bit more and opened herself more to me. As the night progressives, she started becoming her cheerful self. Raven Nightwalker is Captain of her nighttime weather team. Her team got suspicious and confused about Raven's behavior. She mentioned feeling a magical presence when she and I were talking back at the Pine Tree Library. It had me questioning about a gift that the Tree of Harmony may have given me. I transferred you the magic the Tree of Harmony gave me to wield the Element of Magic. Could the Tree leave me some magic for a purpose? I would like to hear your thoughts. 

Sincerely,

Spike the Dragon"	

Spike finish writing his letter. He uses his fire breath to mail the letter to Princess Luna. Now he waits for a response. 

Moments after, Princess Luna leaves the secretive library. She trots down the corridors thinking of what to do next. Princess Luna stops to look out the window. She watches all of Canterlot preparing for slumber soon. Princess Luna sheds a few tears. Her sister using and betraying her. Despite Luna saying Celestia isn't her sister no more, it pains her with the years of growing up together. A letter spawns in front of her. She wipes her tears and starts reading. After reading the letter, Luna teleports to her room and starts writing. 

"Dear Spike,

The Elements of Harmony and Tree of Harmony work in mysterious ways. A trip to the Tree of Harmony to find some answers wouldn't hurt. I'll fly over to bring you to the Tree of Harmony. I'll also bring this Raven Nightwalker as well. I'll be in Pony Central in a half-hour. Meet me at the train station.

Sincerely, 

Princess Luna"

Princess Luna conjures her magic to mail Spike the letter. Then she informs the Royal Guards that she'll be taking care of business for the night. She doesn't want to be disturbed unless Daybreaker or any loose villain of Equestria decide to make themselves known. The Royal Guards nod and salute to Princess Luna. She takes flight heading straight to Pony Central. 

Spike is sitting in the hallway with Raven. She doesn't want to leave Spike alone in the Weather Command Station as everypony else has said goodbye to Spike and fly home. Spike burps the letter Luna sent him. He grabs it and reads it out loud for Raven to hear. Spike and Raven become ecstatic, knowing that Princess Luna is coming.

"This is fantastic. I'm going to meet my favorite Princess!" Raven shouts. 

"Also, some questions I have in mind may be answered tonight!" Spike shouts.

"Let's go to the train station," Raven said. 

Raven picks up Spike and flies to the train station. As they arrive, Princess Luna lands in front of the two of them. Raven bows in respect to her favorite Princess. 

"Ah, you must be Raven Nightwalker."

"Yes, Princess Luna. It's an honor to meet you face to face. I'm a night owl, Princess Luna. I stay up star gazing at your creations in the night sky," Raven said as she smiles widely. 

"Thank you, Raven," Luna nods in respect to Raven. "Spike mentioned that you were emotionless during the conversation you had before opening yourself more, is that true?"

"Yes, Princess Luna. My emotionless state has carried with me for many years. When I spoke with Spike, I did open myself a bit more to him. Then I felt something magical or something different. I thought I'd never been cheerful and full of emotions until after the conversation."

Princess Luna takes a few moments to think. Perhaps there is a connection to the Tree of Harmony or Raven becoming who she used to be on her own. 

"Alright, let's go see the Tree of Harmony."

Spike gets on Raven's back as she and Luna fly together to the Tree of Harmony. Spike wonders what the Tree of Harmony may or may not do once he arrives. He hopes to find some answers. Hopefully, it's not all in his head and him overreacting. Only time will tell what happens next. 20 minutes later. Princess Luna navigates Raven to the Tree of Harmony. Spike gets off of Raven's back and walks closer to the Tree. Raven couldn't help but stare at the Tree of Harmony. Princess Luna trots up to Spike. 

"Spike, place your claw on the Tree of Harmony."

"What would that do, Princess Luna?"

"I'll be able to sense the magic within you once you touch the Tree of Harmony. If I am unable to detect any magic within you, then you did not receive a gift from the Tree. If I do detect any magic, then there is a Spell I do know that we can use. It'll help discover the gift the Tree may have given you." 

"Alright," Spike gulps. He takes a deep breath to steady himself. "I'm ready." 

Raven trots closer to Spike then turns to Luna.

"Are you gonna sense his magic with your hoof on his back or with your horn?"

"More likely with my horn."

Spike places his claw on the Tree of Harmony. Princess Luna clears her mind to focus on any magical presence. Raven watches and begins to worry. Spike's eyes widen as Princess Luna can sense a strong magical presence. The Tree of Harmony is communicating with Spike and Luna telepathically. Raven watches as everything unfolds in front of her. After a few moments which felt like forever to Raven, Spike steps back from the Tree of Harmony. Princess Luna turns to Spike. 

"Spike...?" Raven asks, worriedly. 

"Raven," Spike turns to Raven smiling. "I have a gift from the Tree of Harmony!"

"You do?!" Raven shouts excitedly and shockingly. 

"Yes, Spike here has a purpose. It'll be a long journey for him," Luna said. 

"What's your purpose, Spike?"

"I restore the missing link that makes a pony or creature whole."		

Raven's eyes widen in shock. The realization comes to mind. She mentioned how she was with Spike. After talking with him, she felt something during that time. She now believes that it was magic she felt. The magic that brought back a piece of her that she lost during her youth. 

"Wow," Raven mutters. She looks at Spike and smiles. "Thank you, Spike. You've given me something precious to me. The personality that I lost in my youth due to the abuse. I think I can finally move on from my troubling past and sleep better with a smile on my face," Raven hugs Spike. 

"You're welcome, Raven," Spike said as he starts yawning a bit. 

"I better bring him back home. Spike, you still staying with Lemon Zest?"

"No," Spike yawns again. "This week, I'm with Indigo Zap at Sky High Paradise."

"Alright, then. I'll fly you to Sky High Paradise," Raven said as she puts Spike on her back. She then turns to Luna. "Thank you for your time tonight, Princess Luna."

"You're welcome. Have a nice night, Raven," Princess Luna trots out of the cave and flies back to Canterlot. 

"Time to go home, Spike." 

Raven trots out the cave and flies back to Pony Central. On the way there, Raven stargazes at the night sky. In a half-hour after stargazing, Raven is back in Pony Central. She flies higher to Sky High Paradise and knocks on the door. Indigo opens the door. She's wearing her pajamas and hat getting ready to sleep. 

"Hi, Raven," Indigo yawns. 

"Hi, Indigo. I'm here to drop off Spike."

Spike is soundly asleep on Raven's back. Indigo couldn't help but chuckle. 

"Thank you for bringing him back here, Raven."

"You're welcome, Indigo. Oh, it's going to be cloudy for the next two days. I know you'll be going to Foal Mountain tomorrow as you do every other day. If I were you, I would wait until the clouds are away in Pony Central."

"Alright, gives me better preparations to train with Spike and Foal Mountain better. Thanks for the heads-up, Raven."

"You're welcome," Raven said as she smiles. Indigo couldn't help but stare as Raven flies back home. 

"Alright, seeing Raven smile like that is weird." 

Indigo takes Spike upstairs to his room and tuck him in his bed. She looks at Spike and smiles, knowing he had a fun night. She walks down a flight to her bedroom and falls asleep.