> My Little Pony: Living the Future > by Harrison Sparrow > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > 1. A Sudden Change > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- My Little Pony: Living the Future Once upon a time, there was a purple unicorn pony named Twilight Sparkle. Princess Celestia, the ruler of Equestria and also her mentor, has sent her to live in Ponyville, where Twilight began learning everything about the Magic of Friendship with her best friend Spike. She also made more best friends with five special ponies, named Fluttershy, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Rainbow Dash. They've been having adventures together, visiting the Crystal Empire and Dodge Junction, and they even saved Shining Armor and Princess Cadance's wedding from the evil Queen Chrysalis. One day, after completing Star Swirl's unfinished spell with all her hard work and studying, Twilight became a brand new princess. She has been congratulated by Celestia, and Twilight couldn't have done it without her friends beside her. Shortly after taking her first ever flight, Twilight Sparkle returns to Canterlot and lands next to Spike. "So, how does it feel to be a princess, Twilight?" Spike asked. "It's a huge change, Spike." Twilight said. "I've made Celestia so proud, she thinks I'm ready for the next step. I have so much to do now." "I can help you, it's no problem at all." Spike said. "You'll always be my number one assistant." Twilight said. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy approach them up ahead. "Hey, there's our new princess, everypony!" Applejack said. "Girls!" Twilight said happily. The ponies and Spike have a group hug. "Twilight, your flying was awesome!" Rainbow said. "I'm so happy you're a princess! I CAN HARDLY BREATHE!!!" Pinkie said loudly. "Thanks, guys. I'm glad I've made best friends with all of you." Twilight said. "Oh, that's really sweet of you, darling." Rarity said, nearly tearing up. "You've just made my day." "We love you so much, Twilight." Fluttershy said lovingly. "I love you so much too, girls." Twilight said. "I think this calls for an after-party at Sugarcube Corner tonight!" "Ooh! Good idea! I'll get the cupcakes ready!" Pinkie said excitingly. "And I'll have all the decorations up in 10 seconds!" Rainbow said. "And we should all dress up nicely for the princess." Rarity said. "Oh, um, can I bring Angel to the party?" Fluttershy said, questioning Twilight. "Of course!" Twilight said. "And even better; everyone's invited!" Her friends cheer. "I can't wait." Suddenly, the ground starts shaking underneath them! "Whoa! What's goin' on here?!" Applejack said. "Uh, Twilight!?" Spike said, scared. "I-I don't know what's happening! I-" Twilight said. They suddenly get sucked into the ground and they all scream dramatically! They are actually inside a comet that is falling from the sky. It crashes into the ground, causing a colossal shockwave! The wave covers the entire planet, and magic spreads around it to make it disappear. The world has now changed! Twilight gets out of a pile of trash, coughing. "Yuck! What is all this?" Twilight looks around, where she's in the middle of a junkyard. "Guys? Celestia? Hello!?" Twilight is getting frightened. "GUYS!!! Where am I?" Something is rattling nearby. "Huh?" Spike reveals himself from some trash. "Twilight?" Spike said. "SPIKE!" Twilight said as she runs to him. "Twilight!" Spike and Twilight hug tightly. "Are you okay?" Twilight said. "Yes, I'm okay. Are you?" Spike asked. "I think I am." Twilight said. "Where are we?" Spike asked, as he looks around. "What is this place?" "I don't know." Twilight said. "We must've been sent here somehow." "Man, it sure looks creepy." Spike said. "Wait, where are the others?" "I have no idea." Twilight said. She starts calling out. "PINKIE!" "RAINBOW!" Spike calls out. "APPLEJACK! Where are you?! Oh, I hope they're all right." Twilight said with worry. "We should split up and find them." Spike said. "No, we find them together." Twilight said. "I'm not losing sight of you again." "Oh yeah, that would be terrifying if you do." Spike said. A huge machine is coming. Twilight and Spike quickly hide to avoid being spotted. "We should definitely get outta here, I smell like a wet dog! Eww!" Spike said with disgust. Spike and Twilight sneak out of the junkyard and into the forest to find their friends. > 2. A Whole New World > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twilight and Spike are strolling through the woods, still finding the other ponies. "We travelled like a million miles, and we still haven't found them yet?" Spike said. "We can't stop searching, Spike, they have to be here." Twilight said. "A pony should never leave their best friends behind." They see something moving in a tree. Spike hugs Twilight in fear. It is revealed to be Fluttershy. "Fluttershy?" Twilight said. "Twilight! Spike! You're okay!" Fluttershy said. Twilight, Fluttershy and Spike hug. "Oh, thank goodness!" Twilight said. "Where are the others? Are they all right?" "I don't know where they are!" Fluttershy said. "I got sent here somehow, and I had to hide in the tree. I'm too scared of the dark!" "It's okay, we're together." Twilight said, trying to calm Fluttershy down. "Where were you two?" Fluttershy asked. "I think we were in some kind of junkyard?" Twilight said. "A 'junkyard'?" Spike said. "Say, since when did Equestria have a junkyard?" "I don't know anything about that, but we have to keep going." Twilight said. "Great, more searching! Just what we need!" Spike said, getting more annoyed. "Spike, this is serious!" Twilight said. "Yeah, I know. I just hope they're not too far now." Spike said. "Ooh, I really hope Rarity is here..." Fluttershy said with worry. "Me too." Twilight said. They continue walking through the woods. Many minutes later... "You know, Twilight, I'm actually getting a little less scared when I'm with you." Fluttershy said. "Don't worry, Fluttershy." Twilight said. "I wouldn't let anything bad happen to you, or my friends." They hear some rattling through the bushes. Four creepy sets of eyes are shown. Fluttershy is scared. "M-m-monsters!" Spike said, shaking in fear. "Get behind me!" Twilight said as Spike and Fluttershy get behind her. The eyes emerge from the bushes and are revealed to be Rainbow, Rarity, Applejack and Pinkie! "Twilight!" Rainbow said. "Guys?" Twilight said in surprise. "YAY, YOU'RE ALL ALIVE!!!" Pinkie yells as she hugs them tightly. "Pinkie!" Twilight said as the others gather for a hug. "I'm so glad you're all okay!" "We're glad you're okay too, Sugarcube!" Applejack said, and she sighs in relief. "We can all relax now." "'Relax'!?" Rarity said. "I thought you said we were going to find out where we were! There's not much to see in the dark, you know!" "Whoops, sorry, my mistake." Applejack said. "Where were you guys, anyway?" Rainbow asked. "Me and Spike got sent into a junkyard somehow." Twilight said. "And it was so stinky!" Spike said. "I need a bath." "And I've been sent into a huge tree!" Fluttershy said. "I didn't know where I was!" "Well, I'm sure you ain't kiddin'." Applejack said. "We didn't know where we were either." "Until we found something!" Pinkie said. "You guys need to come and see it! IT'S A ROTATING GIANT!" "A 'rotating giant'?" Twilight said, confused. Rainbow scoffs. "She's obviously talking about a windmill." She said. "AND IT IS WHITE!!" Pinkie said, getting louder. "And it is white." Rainbow copied her. "EVERYPONY FOLLOW ME!!!" Pinkie yells as she zooms off. "Pinkie, wait for us, darling!" Rarity said. "You guys must've seen some weird things already." Twilight said. "Oh, we've seen a lotta weird things, Twilight, and the one we saw did look like a white windmill." Applejack said. Pinkie stops near the huge white windmill. "IT IS HERE! IT IS HERE! LOOK AT IT!!" She said. They all look up, seeing it is actually a wind turbine. "That's a white windmill?" Twilight asked. "Whoa! It looks huge!" Spike said. "I've never seen anything like that before." Fluttershy said. "I know, right!?" Pinkie said. "It's making me spin my eyes out!" She moves her head with the wind turbine's blades. "Pinkie Pie, can't ya see we're tryin' to figure out where we are right now?" Applejack said. Pinkie won't stop moving her head. "I got this." Rainbow said, and she yells at Pinkie. "PINKIE!!!" Pinkie yelps. "Snap out of it already!" "Sorry..." Pinkie said softly. "I don't remember Equestria having any of these either." Twilight said. "Do you have any idea what it really is?" Rarity asked. "I'm not sure, Rarity." Twilight said. "It seems odd, but it's moving with the wind, just like any other windmill does." "Hey, whoever made this, I think it already looks awesome!" Rainbow said. "You keep sayin' 'awesome', do ya, Rainbow?" Applejack said. "Duh, it's in my DNA!" Rainbow said. "What's in your DNA? Calling everypony 'Sugarcube'?" "Please don't fight, guys." Twilight said. "What? We're not fighting, we're just having a friendly discussion." Rainbow said. Suddenly, an airplane flies over them. "WHOA! What is that?" Rainbow asked in shock. "Oh, I hope that's not another dragon!" Fluttershy said with worry. "I don't think that was a dragon." Twilight said. "It must be something else." "Where is it going?" Pinkie asked. "I don't know, I think we should follow it. Come on!" Twilight said. They all follow the airplane to see where it's going. Then, they see Manehattan as a future-styled city in the distance, which looks very similar to New York City! "Holy moly..." Spike said in shock. "What the heck is that?" "That isn't Manehattan, isn't it?" Pinkie asked. "Oh, I just remembered; we were going to visit Manehattan one day!" Rarity said. "But I don't think it was like that!" "First day as a princess, and I'm already seeing things!" Twilight said. "Me too!" Spike said. "What are we going to do?" "I think we need to talk to somepony for help." Twilight said. "Maybe they can tell us where we are. But, is any one of you feeling tired?" "Me?" Pinkie asked. "I'm not tired! This is too exciting!" "Well, seein' it is dark, I would say I am." Applejack said yawning. "Yeah, me too." Fluttershy said. "Then let's find somewhere to sleep." Twilight said, as she and the others walk down the hill. "Oh, come on!" Pinkie said. "We're on an adventure!" "Sometimes adventurers need rest, dear." Rarity said. Pinkie sighs. "Okay. And may I ask, what did Manehattan really look like?" She asked. > 3. The United States of Equestria > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The next morning, in a hut, the Mane Six and Spike are still sleeping. They wake up when they hear hoof-steps. Fluttershy gasps. "Guys! Someone's coming!" She said. "Everyone hide!" Spike said. They all hide as another pony opens the door. He hears a small bang. "Huh? I say, my pony sense is tingling again." The pony said as he grabs a spade. "Come out wherever you are, critter. I know you're in here somewhere! Reveal yourself!" Twilight reveals herself. "Please don't hurt us, sir!" She said. "AAH!!" The pony startled. "Hey, you're not a critter! What the heck are you doing in my hut?" "We can explain!" Twilight said. "Guys, it's okay!" The others come out of hiding. "Well, I'll be!" The pony said. "Five more ponies and a little dragon? Now what the heck are you all doing in my hut?" "We didn't mean any of it, sir." Twilight said. "We were trying to find somewhere to rest." "Uh, we got lost, and we have no idea where we are." Applejack said. "'Lost', eh? Well, you're in Randolph." The pony said. "Randolph?" Rarity asked. "Yup, one of the most loved places in New Jersey." The pony said. "And this really ain't a place for sleeping, that's for sure. Where are you trying to get to?" "Ponyville, sir." Twilight said. "It's my home. Do you know where that is?" "Ponyville? Hey, I've been there many times." The pony said. "Wait, you have?" Rainbow said. "Yeah, it's only about 20 minutes down the freeway." The pony said. "Can you please take us there?" Twilight asked. "Well, I'm about to run some errands down there." The pony said. "So yeah, I can take you." "Oh, thank you so much, sir!" Twilight said, as she shakes the pony's hoof. "I'm Twilight Sparkle, by the way. And these are my friends: Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Spike and Rarity." "Okay, nice to meet you, no longer strangers." The pony said. "You can call me Pete." "Ooh, Pete? Do you know there's a place called Sugarcube Corner in Ponyville?" Pinkie asked. "I know all the places in Ponyville, and the cupcakes they have are delicious!" Pete said. Pinkie gasps with joy. "HOLY MOLY, HE KNOWS ALL OF PONYVILLE!!!" She yells. "Sorry, sir." Fluttershy said. "Pinkie Pie can be really silly most of the time." Pete blows a raspberry. "I can tell." He said. "We're going in my minivan." The Mane Six and Spike get into Pete's minivan. "All right, strap yourself in, everypony!" Pete said. "Safety first." "Uh... how do we strap ourselves in, Mr. Pete?" Spike asked. "What, you don't know how to put a seatbelt on!?" Pete said in confusion. "Gee, it seems to me that you're all new to this world!" Rarity sees a seatbelt and straps herself in. "Oh, this is how you do it!" She said. The others do the same. "Ooh!" Pinkie said. "Got it!" Rainbow said. "Ooh, this feels a little tight." Fluttershy said. "Sorry, Pete, I think you're right." Twilight said. "We don't really know any of these things... yet." "Mmm... oh well, it doesn't matter." Pete said. "How about some music for the journey?" He turns on the radio and country music starts playing. "Hey, I haven't heard this kinda music before!" Applejack said. "Sounds good, don't it?" Pete said. "I love all things country!" "You know, I'm actually really good on a guitar, Pete!" Applejack said. "Is that so? Well, I'll be darned!" Pete said. They all laugh and Pete starts driving. As they drive on the freeway, Twilight and her friends look at all the cars driving with them. "Hey, what are these things and why are they all following us?" Rainbow asked. "You don't know these things as well, do ya?" Pete said. "They're called cars." "Cars?" Twilight said. "What is a car, Pete?" "It's a type of automobile that you use to travel on roads." Pete said. "And this minivan here is also an automobile." Pinkie gasps as she looks at a truck. "OH MY GOSH, LOOK AT THAT ONE! IT'S A BIG AUTOMOBILE!!" She said. Pete chuckles. "That's a truck, and they carry a heavy load of cargo." He said. Rarity sees another truck and gasps. "That one carries jewelry and dresses!" She said. "Rarity has a passion for designin'." Applejack said. "Gee, I didn't know that." Pete said. Another car drives by them, with four ponies jamming out to electronic music. "Wow, look at those guys!" Rainbow said. "Are they having a car party?" "Ooh, I LOVE parties!" Pinkie said. "Sure looks like it." Pete said. "WE LOVE EQUESTRIA!!!" The four ponies say as they cheer madly and speed off. "Those jerks!" Pete said annoyingly. "They think they own the road!?" "Oh, um... that's quite a little rude to call ponies that, isn't it?" Fluttershy asked. "Sorry, we have quite a few ponies doing crazy stuff in this country these days." Pete said. "Wait, did they just say... 'Equestria'?" Twilight asked. "I think they did." Spike said. "And I don't think we ever had cars either." Twilight and Spike are starting to feel worried. A few minutes later, Pete stops near the side of the road. "Here we are, girls." Pete said. "Safe and sound." The Mane Six and Spike get out of Pete's car. "Thanks, Pete." Twilight said. "And thanks for the ride, by the way." "Yeah, that was quite a trip!" Spike said. "No problem." Pete said. "Anytime at all." "Oh, do you think we'll get to see you again?" Rarity asked. "Who knows?" Pete said. "Maybe in a couple hours? I don't know, maybe tomorrow. Now you take care of yourselves out there. Bye!" He starts driving off. "Bye, Pete!" Twilight said. "Have fun doing your errands!" Pinkie said. "I say, he's an awesome guy." Rainbow said. "Yup." Twilight said as she turns around. "Now that we're back in Ponyville, we can finally..." They see that Ponyville has changed and is now a modern looking town! "What the...?" Pinkie said. "Wait... this is Ponyville?" Twilight said. "Oh my!" Fluttershy said in shock. "First Manehattan, now Ponyville is different too?" Rarity said. "What happened here?" Rainbow asked. "I don't know." Twilight said. "Ooh, maybe we should check it out!" Pinkie said. They walk into the town and see ponies driving in cars, jogging to some music from a music player, skateboarding, riding on bikes, playing with drones, and ordering takeaways at a drive-through. "Now I'm really seeing things!" Twilight said. "Ponyville was definitely not like this, and I also haven't seen ponies doing these kind of things as well!" "It does seem different." Pinkie said. "Mmm, I wonder where Sugarcube Corner is?" "Don't forget it's not literally on a corner, Pinkie." Applejack said. "I'm gonna go and find out where Cloudsdale is, too." Rainbow said. "Rainbow..." Twilight said. "I know, Twilight, I'll try not to get lost, if that's what you were gonna say..." Rainbow said. "You'll need to get a map first." Twilight said. "Don't we all need a map?" Applejack asked. "Good point." Twilight said. "Find out what's going on, and we'll meet back here as soon as possible. Deal?" "Pinkie deal!" Pinkie said. "Okay, Twilight." Fluttershy said. "Absolutely, darling." Rarity said. "You heard the princess!" Spike said. "Let's go!" They all split up and get maps to help guide themselves. Rainbow has found Cloudsdale, but it's literally not in the clouds anymore and is also a modern looking town! She flies around the town and she cannot believe everything that she saw. Pinkie has also found Sugarcube Corner, but it is also very different and modern looking! She looks confused. Rarity has also found her home, Carousel Boutique, but it's also very modern looking as she gasps in shock. Applejack and Fluttershy question some ponies on what's going on, but they all refuse to answer them. A few minutes later... Twilight groans. "We've been asking everypony here, and they all don't believe what we're saying!?" She said. "Maybe we haven't introduced ourselves to them yet?" Spike said. "I can't even find the Golden Oak Library!" Twilight said. "It's nowhere on the map!" "Twilight!" Rainbow said as she returns. "Rainbow! Have you found Cloudsdale yet?" Twilight asked. "Yeah, I just did!" Rainbow said. "But..." "But..." Twilight copies her. "It's not in the clouds anymore." Rainbow said. "Like, literally!" "What?" Twilight said. "Guys!" Pinkie said. "I just found Sugarcube Corner!" "And I've found Carousel Boutique!" Rarity said. "BUT THEY'RE ALL DIFFERENT!!" Pinkie and Rarity both said in panic. "ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?" Twilight said in shock. "Me and Applejack were talking to everypony, and they wouldn't answer to us!" Fluttershy said. "It's like they don't know who we are!" Applejack said. Twilight scoffs. "This doesn't make any sense!" She said. They turn to look at some TVs, showing live coverage of the news. "And in other news, Jammy Logano was crowned this year's NASCAR champion, after taking victory at the Ford Ecoboost 400." The news reporter said. "He said he declares his win to all his best friends and family, as he couldn't have done it without them. This is EQA News, bringing you all the latest around the United States of Equestria." The Mane Six and Spike gasp in shock. "The United States of Equestria!?" Twilight said. "Oh my gosh!" Applejack said. "That's a huge island we seem to be on!" "When did Equestria become known as that?!" Spike said. "And how did the island grow so big?!" Pinkie said. "First we've seen a huge white windmill, Manehattan has changed, we were driving down a huge freeway with so many cars, Ponyville has also changed, and now Equestria is known as THAT!?" Twilight said, raising her voice. "Don't leave Cloudsdale out!" Rainbow said. "That is also different!" "So is Sugarcube Corner!" Pinkie said. "And Carousel Boutique, dear!" Rarity said. Twilight starts panicking. "No-no-no-no-no-no-no-no-no! What has happened to our world?! What has happened to Manehattan and Cloudsdale?!" She said. "Twilight!?" Fluttershy said. "WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO PONYVILLE?!" Twilight said, and she starts screaming out. "WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO EQUESTRIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA?!?!?!?!?!?!?!" > 4. Two Paths Collide > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After Twilight's dramatic scream, all of the ponies stare at her. "Whoa. Cool." The dude pony said. Twilight runs off in panic. "Hey, Twilight, stop!" Spike said as he and the rest of the Mane Six go after her. Twilight grabs an empty kraft paper bag and breathes heavily in and out of it. "Whoa, hang on now!" Applejack said, trying to calm her down. "I'm sure this is all just a misunderstandin'." "'Misunderstanding'!?" Twilight said. "Applejack, this is really not the time to hang on!" "But you're a princess now, Twilight!" Pinkie said. "Should you really be overreacting!?" "I know I'm a princess, guys!" Twilight said. "After all the things we've been through; stopping Chrysalis from destroying the wedding, reforming Discord and completing Star Swirl's difficult spell, Celestia said I was ready to take the next step, and now, we've somehow travelled through time into the future! I just don't know what to do." "Although the technology here is really cool." Rainbow said. "And even in some places, you don't have to open the doors." Pinkie said. "Just think, Twilight." Spike said. "If there was one place a princess would go and ask for help, where will that be?" "Canterlot... Of course! Canterlot!" Twilight said. "Celestia and Luna may still be there! Maybe they could figure it out!" "See? Now you're getting somewhere, darling!" Rarity said. "But how do we get to Canterlot?" Fluttershy asked. "On the map, it is further away from Ponyville! It wasn't that far away in the other world." "Then we'll head to the train station." Twilight said. "I'm sure the Friendship Express will take us there." "Uh, guys, don't mind if I ask?" Rainbow said. "Do you think the Friendship Express is also different in this world?" At the train station, Rainbow sees something in shock. "IT IS DIFFERENT!" Rainbow said loudly. The Friendship Express is now a bullet train! "It looks... elegant!" Rarity said, admiring the train. "Sleek design, too!" "Not to mention the station here is huge." Applejack said. "There's even a whole lotta trains!" "Okay, guys. Canterlot, here we come!" Twilight said. They all aboard the Friendship Express. "Welcome all aboard the Friendship Express, the only express you'll need to visit the most exciting places in all of Equestria!" The train announcer said. "We hope you have a safe and happy journey to Canterlot!" "Why, thank you, train lady!" Pinkie said. "Pinkie!" Twilight said. They all laugh, as the train starts leaving the station. On the way, Twilight is looking at the map whilst her friends are interacting with the train's tablets. Pinkie drinks some hot chocolate and Spike gazes out the window. The train arrives at the Canterlot Station, and Twilight and her friends walk out of the train and into the city. "Man, that train ride was pretty awesome." Spike said. "Yeah, I thought it was, too." Twilight said. "Wow, look at this place!" Pinkie said, looking around the city. "This feels so exciting!" "Oh no, even Canterlot is different!" Rainbow said. "All right, we just need to find the castle." Twilight said. "That was where I had my coronation." "Oh my, I haven't seen Canterlot be this different." Fluttershy said. "Me too, dear." Rarity said. "The designs of these buildings are really posh, just like the ones back in Ponyville." Fluttershy is confused. "Oh, not the other Ponyville, the one we where at a while back." "I wonder where Sweet Apple Acres is?" Applejack said. "Hopefully Granny Smith and Apple Bloom are still there." "Same thing with Sweetie Belle." Rarity said with worry. "I can't tell where she is." "Not even Scootaloo." Rainbow said. "The Cutie Mark Crusaders are really special to us, even my little sister." Rarity said. "Mom and Dad aren't gonna believe me when I tell them about all this!" Rainbow said. "Shouldn't you be thinking where your parents are, Rainbow?" Fluttershy said. "Uh... I guess." Rainbow said. "What about yours?" Fluttershy sighs. "I don't know..." She said. "Okay, I think we're here." Twilight said. They see that the Canterlot Castle is completely different; it's not in the mountains anymore, but it's more luxurious! "Wait a minute, are you sure this is the castle?" Spike asked. "Well, it says it's right here, Spike." Twilight said. "But it wasn't like this." Pinkie gasps with delight. "Holy moly, it looks beautiful!" She said. Rainbow groans. "Even the castle is different!" She said. "Rainbow!" Rarity said annoyingly. "What? It's not even in the mountains anymore, Rarity!" Rainbow said. "Well, darling, that's because we're not in the mountains, either." Rarity said. "Ah, yeah, and we're in a city. Good point." Rainbow said. "Hey, this wasn't where your coronation took place, Twilight." Applejack said. "That's exactly what I was thinking." Twilight said. Gallus approaches with some guards. "Halt! Who goes there?!" He said. "Oh, sorry!" Twilight said in defense. "We don't wanna intrude, we just came here to see Princesses Celestia and Luna." "Celestia and Luna?" Gallus asked. "Yes, that's right." Twilight said. "My name is Twilight Sparkle, and these are all my best friends." "What?" Gallus said. "Did you just say... Twilight?" Twilight nods. "Is it really you!?" "I'm not kidding!" Twilight said. Gallus gasps in shock. "Oh my gosh, I can't believe what I'm seeing!" He said. "Uh, are you-?" A guard said. "No-no-no, everything's cool." Gallus said. "Do you mind if we give them permission to enter?" "What? Are you sure?" The other guard said. "Yes please." Gallus said. "Well, I don't see why not." The guard said. "Thanks, I'll take care of this." Gallus said. "All of you, follow me." The Mane Six and Spike follow Gallus into the castle. "I'll admit, you're quite a hoofsome griffon." Rarity said. "Oh, thank you." Gallus said. "My name's Gallus." "Good to meet you, Gallus." Rarity said. "I'm Rarity." "Yeah, I can tell." Gallus said nervously. "Uh, Twilight? Do you think he's acting a little weird?" Spike asked. "You can never be too sure, Spike." Twilight said. They approach the door to the throne room. "Hmm... Wasn't the castle like this in the other world?" Pinkie asked. "No, it seriously wasn't." Gallus said. "Wait, you knew 'bout this?" Applejack asked. "It's a long story." Gallus said. "Okay, I need all of you to wait here until the door opens. Promise?" "We swear." Twilight said. "Good." Gallus said, and as he goes through the door, Pinkie starts moving. "No, no!" Fluttershy stops her. "Hey, he said to wait!" She said. "I thought it was the right time." Pinkie said. "Not yet, it isn't!" Gallus said quietly, as he goes through the door. "Uh, Your Majesty? We have some familiar guests?" Twilight hears the conversation through the door. "'Familiar'? We haven't heard that before, Gallus." Said someone behind the door. "What should I do?" Gallus asked behind the door. "Just like everypony else. Send them in." Said someone else behind the door. "Okay." Gallus said. Gallus pushes a button and the door opens. Twilight and her friends walk into the throne room and they see something in shock. "Guys? Isn't that...?" Twilight said. "That's not Celestia." Rainbow said. "Twilight..." Spike said, whispering. "I think that's us!" It is revealed to be the future-selves of Twilight Sparkle and Spike! "What? Little Spike?" Future Spike said in surprise. "Impossible..." Future Twilight said, as she gets up from her chair and walks towards Twilight. "Wow...!" Twilight said, as her future-self touches her. "Hi, future me." Future Spike holds Future Twilight's shoulder. "Are you seeing this?" He said. Future Twilight nods and starts tearing up. "How...?" She said. "How did I get so strong and huge?" Spike asked. "Workouts, buddy. A lot." Future Spike said. "It's like I'm the ruler of Equestria!" Twilight said. Future Twilight sniffles. "Yeah, you're right." She said. "Twilight, what's wrong?" Future Rainbow asked. Twilight's friends turn around and see their future-selves. "Guys... this is us." Future Twilight said. "Applejack?" Future Applejack said. "Another Rarity!?" Future Rarity said. "Oh my!" Fluttershy said. "How is there a lotta things in my hair?" Pinkie said, about her future-self. Gallus cries. "Oh boy!" He said, weeping. "It's a miracle." Future Twilight said, as she smiles. > 5. Weird Conversation > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "I just don't get it. How is there two of us here?" Future Pinkie asked. "I'd say it's pretty complicated." Future Fluttershy said. "Do you think they've travelled through time?" "Maybe the comet brought them here, too." Future Twilight said. "A comet?" Twilight asked. "That brought us here?" "I would say so." Future Twilight said. "So, all of us guys were brought into this world?" Rainbow asked. "By a comet?" "Yup, and it was so darn epic!" Future Applejack said. "How did it happen?" Twilight asked. "If I do remember it correctly..." Future Twilight said. "The way we saw it, we were singing a song together, were we, guys?" "Absolutely, darling." Future Rarity said. "What was it called?" Spike asked. "'The Magic of Friendship Grows'." Future Rarity said. "It was really emotional." "Yeah, we were singing it to Luster Dawn." Future Twilight said. "Who's Luster Dawn?" Twilight asked. "My star-student." Future Twilight said. "She was having friendship problems just like we were." "Does she sleep till dawn?" Pinkie asked. They all giggle. Flashback... "When we sent Luster off to hang out with her own friends, we suddenly heard a large noise from behind us." Future Twilight said. "The sky turned green, and we looked behind to see what was going on. That was where we saw the comet falling from the sky. And when it crashed into the Earth... we all got caught in the shock-wave. But somehow... we survived." Future Twilight regains consciousness. "Guys...?" She said. Future Rainbow gets up, groaning. "What happened? Are we dead?" She said. "Rarity!" Future Spike said, as he hugs Future Rarity. "Oh, Spike!" Future Rarity said. "Is everyone all right?" Future Spike asked. "I think so." Future Fluttershy said. "I’m okay." "Oh boy!" Future Applejack said. "Whatever that was, that was so dang tense!" Future Pinkie looks up at the sky. "Hey, when did it get dark all of a sudden?" She asked. Future Twilight looks around. "Wait, where’s Ponyville?" She asked. "And where’s everypony else?" Future Applejack asked. "Where are we?" Future Pinkie asked. "Where’s Cheese?!" She calls out in panic. "Cheese!? CHEESE!!" Future Twilight gasps. "Oh no!" She said, and she also calls out. "LUSTER DAWN!!" "TWILIGHT!" Luster calls out, as she and her friends run up to the future Mane Six. "Oh, goodness!" Future Twilight said, as she and Luster hug. "Are you guys okay?" "Never better." Luster said. "What was that?" "I think it must’ve been a comet that crashed into the ground." Future Twilight said. "Comet?" Future Rarity said. "Didn’t you say it was some kind of asteroid?" She asked Future Spike. Future Spike scoffs. "I thought it was an actual asteroid." He said. "I hope all of my pretties are okay, too." Future Fluttershy said with worry. An airplane flies over them. "Whoa! What is that?" Future Rainbow asked. "I don’t know, I think we should follow it. Come on!" Future Twilight said. They all go after the plane. Then, they look over a view and see the new Manehattan in the distance. "That isn’t Manehattan, isn't it?" Future Pinkie asked. "What is going on here?" Future Twilight said. Flashback ends... "That was how we ended up in this world." Future Twilight said. "And along the way, we saw that everything has changed. Not just Manehattan, but Canterlot, Ponyville, the castle, the buildings..." "We saw everything, too!" Spike said. "The Friendship Express was also different!" "We even saw a huge white windmill!" Pinkie said. "Yeah, and there were a lot of ponies driving these things on the road that were called, uh..." Rainbow said, struggling to remember the word. "Cars?" Future Rainbow said. "Ah, right-right, that." Rainbow said. "We were in a minivan with a pony named Pete." Fluttershy said. "He was really nice." "And we even saw some ponies in one car yelling 'WE LOVE EQUESTRIA!!'!" Rainbow said. "And when we looked around Ponyville and saw most of the changes, that was when we realized we were brought into the future!" Twilight said. "And Equestria is now known as 'The United States of Equestria'!" Pinkie said. "Huh, that is weird." Future Applejack said. "Even this, there bein' two of us." "So, Twilight, how did you and your friends see it?" Future Twilight asked. "But, we just told you what we saw, didn't we?" Twilight said. "I meant the comet." Future Twilight said. "Where were you before it happened?" "Well, we where at my coronation, during my first day as a princess." Twilight said. "Yep, that's how we remember it." Applejack said. "And then, all of a sudden, the ground was rumbling underneath us, and... we must've got sucked in." Twilight said. "And then we were falling..." "Screaming out like crazy!" Pinkie said. "Yeah, that, as well." Twilight said. "And then, me and Spike somehow ended up in a junkyard. Right?" She asked Spike. "Yeah, and it was so dark." Spike said. "I ended up in a tree." Fluttershy said. "And me, Pinkie, Rainbow and Applejack ended up somewhere in a dark forest." Rarity said. "Yikes." Future Spike said. "There isn't much to see in the dark, you know?" "That was exactly what I said to Applejack!" Rarity said. "Now, wait a minute..." Applejack said. "You think we were inside the comet?" "I guess so." Twilight said. "We must've crashed into the Earth where our future-selves were on!" "And then we were all brought here!" Future Twilight said. "This is still too weird." Future Fluttershy said. "It's funny because we didn't see you guys falling inside that comet." Future Rainbow said. "Anyway... We came here because of Celestia and Luna." Twilight said. "But instead, we found you." "Well, they've retired, Twilight." Future Twilight said. "What? Where?" Twilight asked. "They're in Silver Shoals, but I have no idea where it is in this world." Future Twilight said. "Wait, you don't know?" Twilight said. "Not a single clue." Future Twilight said. "But on the plus side, I'm sure they're okay." "And even better, all of our friends are okay." Future Pinkie said. "Our friends?" Twilight said. "You mean Derpy, Bon Bon, Lyra... everyone?" "Yep, but it ain't what'cha guys think." Future Applejack said. "They're from our world." "What, they've changed?" Twilight asked. "Exactly, darling, even our pets." Future Rarity said. Rarity gasps. "Where's Sweetie Belle?" She asked. "And Apple Bloom?" Applejack asked. "And Scootaloo?" Rainbow asked. Spike whispers to Twilight. "I think we were the only ones to be brought here from our world." He said. "Okay, guys, I need you to take your past-selves to all our friends and let them see the differences. " Future Twilight said. "Me and Spike will stay with ours." "Okay, Twilight." Future Fluttershy said. "Hang on." Applejack said. "Are you wearin' Granny Smith's scarf?" She asked her future-self. The others look at the two Applejacks in a moment of silence. "Oh no..." Future Pinkie said softly. "Applejack... lemme take ya to Sweet Apple Acres first." Future Applejack said. "I'll explain when we get there." "Is everything okay?" Pinkie asked. "I'm not sure." Future Pinkie said. Pinkie, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Applejack and Rarity leave the throne room with their future-selves. "I have a bad feeling about this, Twilight." Future Spike said with worry. "Me too." Future Twilight said. "This could not possibly end well." > 6. Devastating Discoveries pt. 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- At Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack walks with her future-self. "I'm tellin' ya, Applejack. Sweet Apple Acres has gotten very different ever since we were taken here." Future Applejack said. "I can see that already." Applejack said. "It looks like it's gotten more bigger than the ones we where from." They arrive at the new Sweet Apple Homestead. "Hey, Apple Bloom! Big Mac!" Future Applejack said. "Howdy, Applejack!" Apple Bloom said. "Are ya findin' things 'round here okay now? 'Cause I sure am." "I have somepony here I want ya to meet." Future Applejack said. "Yeah? Who is it?" Apple Bloom asked. Future Applejack moves to reveal Applejack to Big McIntosh, Apple Bloom and Sugar Belle, who gasp in surprise. "Apple Bloom?" Applejack said. "Big Mac?" "This is me. From the past." Future Applejack said. "Another Applejack?" Apple Bloom said. "Big Mac, are ya seein' this?" "Eeyup." Big Mac said. "You both changed!" Applejack said. "Oh, my lil' sis, what happened to you? You're all grown up!" "Well, sure I am." Apple Bloom said. "I recognized you like that ever since I was a lil' filly! What is goin' on here? How did this happen?" She asked Future Applejack. "Now I can explain." Future Applejack said. "The comet brought her here, too." "So, there's two of ya now?" Sugar Belle asked. "No, not just her, but also her best friends." Future Applejack said. "Twilight Sparkle and the others?" Apple Bloom asked. "Is this true?" "Yeah, it is." Applejack said. Sugar Belle scoffs. "I really don't believe this!" She said. "Me either." Applejack said. "Uh, what's your name?" "Applejack, this is Sugar Belle, your big brother's wife." Future Applejack said. Applejack feels surprised. "Huh? My big brother's married!?" She asked. "Eeyup." Big Mac said. Sugar Belle is shocked. "Excuse me?" She said. "Oh, sorry." Applejack said, and she raises her hoof. "Nice to meet ya, Mrs. Belle. Congratulations on your marriage." Sugar Belle and Applejack shake hooves. "Well, thank you, young Applejack." Sugar Belle said. "And nice to meet ya, too." "Now, may I ask ya somethin'?" Applejack said. "Eeyup." Big Mac said. "Sure, anythin'." Apple Bloom said. "You see, my future-self here is wearin' Granny Smith's scarf." Applejack said. "But I wanna know where Granny is. Have ya seen her around?" Apple Bloom, Big McIntosh and Sugar Belle's smiles fade. "Nnope." Big Mac said. "What do ya mean 'nnope'? Where is she?" Applejack asked. Apple Bloom sniffles. "We're sorry, but... she died, Applejack." She said. Applejack feels shocked. "What? How long?" She asked. "Years ago." Sugar Belle said. "In our world, not yours." "That was what I was tryin' to tell ya." Future Applejack said. Applejack gasps in heartbreak. Rainbow walks with her future-self down a street. "How did you become the captain of the Wonderbolts?" Rainbow asked. "It's kinda awesome!" Future Rainbow chuckles. "It wasn't easy, that's for sure. But I've been racing really hard and showing everypony what I'm capable of." She said. "So I'm guessing Spitfire has retired?" Rainbow asked. "Yup." Future Rainbow said. "And I guess you're wondering where Scootaloo is? "Yeah." Rainbow said. "I know we're not related to each other, but, she's my great friend. I mean, our great friend. You know." "You're right." Future Rainbow said. She then sees Scootaloo flying in the air. "Oh, there she is! Hey, Scoots!" Scootaloo lands in front of them. "Hi, Rainbow!" She said. "Ah, who is..." She then recognizes the other Rainbow Dash. "Rainbow!?" Rainbow Dash gasps in shock. "Scootaloo!?" She said. "WHAT THE HECK!?!?" Both Rainbow and Scootaloo said. "EVEN SCOOTALOO IS DIFFERENT!!" Rainbow said loudly. Future Rainbow feels unimpressed. "I knew this would happen." She said. "Um... What is going on?!" Scootaloo asked. "Why is there two of you?!" "Because the comet brought her into this world." Future Rainbow said. "Even her friends." "So, not just Rainbow, but Twilight, Applejack... Pinkie..." Scootaloo said. "Exactly." Future Rainbow said. Scootaloo gasps longingly. "NO WAY!" She said. "I can't believe you're all grown up!" Rainbow said. "In my world, you were a filly, Scootaloo!" "Yeah, but, not anymore." Scootaloo said. "Although I gotta say, this is both weird and awesome!" "Really?" Rainbow said. "I-I thought you'd be mad." "Me? Mad? Not a chance!" Scootaloo said. Derpy Hooves arrives. "Is there a problem, Scootaloo?" She asked. "Oh, hi, Derpy." Scootaloo said. "There's no problem here." "Well, what is it?" Derpy asked. "Look what we have. Another Rainbow Dash!" Scootaloo said. Derpy looks at Rainbow, and she couldn't believe it. Rainbow is getting saddened. "Derpy? Is it really you?" She asked. "Hello, Rainbow Dash." Derpy said. "Am I really seeing two Rainbows?" "Even Derpy is different." Rainbow said. "A lot of our friends are different, Rainbow." Future Rainbow said. "Wait... where's Mom and Dad?" Rainbow asked. "Are they here?" Future Rainbow, Scootaloo and Derpy appear saddened after what Rainbow said. Rarity and her future-self go to the new Carousel Boutique. "Have you seen what happened to the Carousel Boutique?" Rarity asked. "Of course I did. It's very futuristic." Future Rarity said. "I was too shocked to go inside when I first saw it!" Rarity said. "Oh, Rarity darling, don't be worried." Future Rarity said. "Why don't you and I have a look together? I'm sure there's hundreds of fabulous designs that we haven't seen before!" They go inside the store, where Sweetie Belle, Yona and Sandbar are looking at all the designs. "Sweetie Belle, dear!" Future Rarity said. "There's somepony here I like you to meet." "Oh, sure, Rarity." Sweetie Belle said. "Who is it?" She sees the other Rarity. "Hey... isn't that...?" Rarity feels shocked. "Sweetie Belle?" She said. Sweetie Belle feels the same way. "Rarity!?" She said. "The comet brought her and her friends here too." Future Rarity said. "Oh, Sweetie Belle, look at you!" Rarity said as she touches Sweetie Belle's face. "You've changed so much!" "Rarity... I-I don't understand!" Sweetie Belle said. "I was a filly when you were like this!" "Now, I know this is crazy, but it's happened, okay?" Future Rarity said. "You're right it did!" Yona said. "It seems like the whole world has gone crazy!" "Yeah, I can tell!" Sandbar said. "This should be on the news!" "Oh, who are these two?" Rarity asked. "Uh, sorry, my name's Sandbar." Sandbar said. "And I'm Yona." Yona said. "Um, please to meet you?" "Oh yes, you too." Rarity said as she shakes Yona and Sandbar's hooves. "Have you made new friends with them?" She asked her future-self. "Of course we did, dear." Future Rarity said. "We've met them in our world. Many years ago." Sweetie Belle said. "Do the others know about this yet?" Sandbar asked. "I don't know, but seeing two of Rarity is totally weird!" Yona said. "Gallus found them first, outside the castle." Future Rarity said. "He did? Was he freaked out?" Yona asked. "I think he was surprised, but he is a hoofsome griffon, I must say." Rarity said. "Aww, that is sweet of you, darling." Future Rarity said. "No kidding." Sandbar said. "Hey, if Mom and Dad were still here, they would be seeing ghosts right about now." Sweetie Belle said. The others stare at her. "What? Did I say something wrong?" "Where are they?" Rarity asked Sweetie Belle, who looks at her. "My parents. I mean, our parents." "Sweetie Belle?" Future Rarity said. Sweetie Belle suddenly realizes what she has said. "Oh no..." She said. Rarity is about to cry. "Sweetie, I need to know!" She said. "Rarity... they're..." Sweetie Belle said. Future Rarity covers her mouth in heartbreak. > 7. Devastating Discoveries pt. 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pinkie and her future-self arrive at the new Sugarcube Corner. "Have you seen what has happened to this place?" Pinkie said. "Of course! A lot has changed, you know." Future Pinkie said. "So why do you have a lotta confetti in your hair?" Pinkie asked. "You must've had a lot more parties than I have!" Future Pinkie giggles. "It's not that, it's because I decided to make my son a lot more happy." She said. "Wait a sec, you have a son?" Pinkie asked. "Are you married!?" "That's right, Pinkie." Future Pinkie said. Pinkie gasps. "Married to who?" She asked. "He's right in here." Future Pinkie said, as they enter the building. Cheese Sandwich comes down the stairs. "Ah, there's my cheesy wife!" Cheese said, but he then sees there's two of Pinkie. "What the... OH MY GOSH!!!" He shouted. Pinkie and her future-self yelp. "Pinkie, is that another you right there!?" "Calm down, I can explain." Future Pinkie said. "Pinkie, this is my husband, Cheese Sandwich." "Cheese Sandwich?" Pinkie said. "Ooh, do you make cheesy sandwiches?" Future Pinkie and Lil' Cheese laugh. "Well, it's in my name, so... yeah, literally." Cheese said. "Ooh, yummy!" Pinkie said. She then looks at Lil' Cheese. "And who is this little filly?" "This is our son, Lil' Cheese." Future Pinkie said. "Hello!" Lil' Cheese said, waving at Pinkie. "Why, hello to you, too, Lil' Cheese!" Pinkie said. She then sees Gummy, who has grown so big. "Gummy?" She gasps and walks up to him. "Gummy, you're so big!" She hugs him. "You're not even small anymore." She said sadly. "Well, I guess that's... one thing she's not happy about." Cheese said to Future Pinkie. "I'm sorry about this, but there's even two of her best friends." Future Pinkie said. "What, really!?" Cheese said with shock. "Yes, Twilight, Rainbow, Rarity..." Future Pinkie said, and Cheese cuts her out. "Okay-okay-okay, stop right there for a second!" Cheese said. "How did that even happen?" "It was the comet." Future Pinkie said. "We weren't the only ones brought here." "But... if you guys are a family, then where is my family?" Pinkie asked. "Uh-oh..." Cheese said softly. "I had a feeling this would happen." Future Pinkie said. "What are you talking about?" Pinkie said. "Where is Mom and Dad?" Future Pinkie sighs. "Pinkie... they're gone..." She said. "Gone?" Pinkie said. "Gone where? Where did they-?" "No, what she means, Pinkie, is... they're dead." Cheese said. "What...?" Pinkie said with a saddened look. Future Pinkie sniffles. "We're so sorry..." She said. Pinkie gasps, heartbroken. Fluttershy and her future-self arrive at their new cottage. "Oh my! What happened to my house?!" Fluttershy asked in shock. "I have no idea, Fluttershy." Future Fluttershy said. "It certainly didn't look like this." "I hope all of the animals are here." Fluttershy said, starting to feel worried. "Don't worry, they're inside." Future Fluttershy said. They enter the cottage, and Fluttershy looks around the interior. "Ooh! Now I really feel like I'm in the future!" Fluttershy said. Future Fluttershy giggles. "Me too." She said. Fluttershy gasps, as she sees some bunnies hopping towards her. "My pretties!" She said, as she hugs them. "Awww... How are you doing? Were you lost without me?" Future Fluttershy looks confused. "Um... that is weird." She said. "They were supposed to be hopping towards me." "Oh, I'm sorry." Fluttershy said. "That's okay, I don't blame you." Future Fluttershy said. "Oh, isn't Angel here?" Fluttershy asked. "The tough bunny? He's right over there!" Future Fluttershy said, as she points to Angel, who is waving at them. Fluttershy gasps. "Angel!" She said, as she hugs Angel tightly. "I missed you so much!" Future Fluttershy sighs. "If only our parents were here to see this..." She said. "What?" Fluttershy said. "Oh no, I just remembered!" She realized. "Remembered what?" Future Fluttershy said. "Where are our parents?" Fluttershy asked. "Are they here as well?" "No, Fluttershy. They're not." Future Fluttershy said sadly. "What do you mean?" Fluttershy asked. Future Fluttershy doesn't say anything. Twilight and Spike are with their future-selves, walking through Ponyville. "I'm telling you, I was so freaked out when I saw Ponyville like this!" Twilight said. "And I then got into a big panic when Equestria was known as 'The United States of Equestria'! This just doesn't make any sense at all!" "I'm sure it doesn't, but, I was eventually surprised of how everything has changed." Future Twilight said. "So, what does 'united states' even mean?" Spike asked. "I absolutely have no idea, but the name does sound catchy in my opinion." Future Twilight said. "We saw the map we are on, and I gotta admit, I've never been on an island this huge!" Future Spike said. "Yeah, me too." Spike said. "It's like we're now living in a huge country!" Future Spike said. "Isn't that cool?" "Spike..." Future Twilight said. "What? You said the name sounded catchy." Future Spike said. "It's just an opinion." Future Twilight said. "That doesn't mean it's always right." "Oh... How did I not know that?" Future Spike said. "I don't even know where the Golden Oak Library is." Twilight said. "I've looked everywhere for it!" "Well, in my world, Twilight, it was destroyed by Tirek." Future Twilight said. "Tirek? How did he destroy it?" Twilight asked. "It's a long story." Future Twilight said. "But, the library has been replaced into something even better!" "Really? What does it look like?" Twilight asked. "That." Future Twilight said, as she points to her new house. "It's also my new house." "Whoa!" Spike said, amazed. "Are you serious!?" Twilight said, shocked. "Looks amazing, don't you think?" Future Twilight said. "It has a huge library inside." Twilight gasps. "That means more books to study!" She said, squeaking in excitement. Future Twilight sighs. "It's like I'm revisiting my memories, isn't it?" She said. Future Spike snickers. "I couldn't agree more." He said. They go inside the house, where Luster Dawn is reading through a book, studying. Twilight is admiring the interior. "Wow, it already looks awesome!" She said, as she then sees Luster. "Oh, who is the pony studying?" Luster looks up and feels shocked upon seeing two of Twilight and Spike. "What the...? Twilight? What is going on? Am I seeing things right now!?" She asked. "It's okay, Luster, let me explain." Future Twilight said. "This is me and Spike, from the past. Twilight, meet Luster Dawn, my... our star-student." She said to Twilight. "What, I have my own star-student!?" Twilight said in surprise. "Young Twilight Sparkle and Spike!?" Luster said. "Oh, I feel I'm gonna faint!" "You sure this is okay?" Future Spike said to Future Twilight. "I've got it under control, don't you worry." Future Twilight said. Twilight and Spike walk up to Luster. "So, you're Luster Dawn, right?" Twilight said. "The one that my future-self was talking about?" "Uh... I-I guess so!" Luster said nervously. "I think it's... nice to meet you here?" "Oh, it's certainly nice to meet you, too." Twilight said. "I'm surprised that you're learning everything about the Magic of Friendship as I am!" "Oh! Why, thank you, young Twilight Sparkle." Luster said, as they shake hooves. "It seems really peculiar seeing two of you and Spike here!" "I know, it's completely weird." Twilight said. "And what's even weirder is that there's also two of Pinkie, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Applejack and Rarity!" Spike said. Luster gasps. "Oh my gosh, really!?" She said. "We're not kidding!" Twilight said. "Nice hair you have, by the way." "Thank you." Luster said. "So you were the one who Celestia was mentoring?" "Just like my future-me, yeah." Twilight said. "I was having friendship problems at the start, just like you were. But Celestia taught me that making friends is never a waste of your time. I took that in a lot, and I'm very proud to have made some friends that I love." "I've made friends of my own, too." Luster said. "It's how the Magic of Friendship grows!" "Ah, yes, there's the song." Future Spike said. "Oh, and I forgot to tell you, Twilight." Future Twilight said. "I even established the Council of Friendship at the castle." "What is that?" Twilight asked. "It's where your future-self taught me everything about friendship!" Luster said. "Wow! That is... pretty cool." Twilight said. Luster chuckles. "I know, right?" She said. "It's also how she and her friends have been ruling together, and making sure that everypony around Equestria is safe and happy. Including me, of course." "Whoa, you seem to have a great memory, Luster!" Twilight said. "Yeah, I'm a genius, am I?" Luster said. The doorbell rings. "Oh, I'll get that." Future Twilight said. She opens the door, revealing Twilight's friends, who are all in tears. "Guys? What's wrong?" "It's Granny Smith... She's dead..." Applejack said, crying. "We knew this was comin', Twilight." Future Applejack said. Future Twilight gasps. "Girls?" Twilight said, as she sees her friends crying. "Oh no, what happened?" "Our parents are not here, Twilight..." Fluttershy said. "What?" Twilight said. "They're gone..." Pinkie said, sobbing. "Mom and Dad...?" Twilight said. She then looks at her future-self. "Oh no..." Future Twilight said, covering her mouth. Twilight starts crying. "You knew, didn't you?" She said to her future-self. "Twilight, I-" Future Twilight said, as Twilight cuts her off. "Mom and Dad are dead!? How long have you known?!" Twilight asked angrily. "A couple of years ago." Future Twilight said. "Why didn't you tell me?" Twilight asked. "Because I didn't know you would be here." Future Twilight said. "We never thought this could happen." Spike hugs Twilight. "Hey. It's okay, Twilight. We'll-" He said, as Twilight cuts him off. "No, it's not okay, Spike!" Twilight said loudly. "You were right. We were the only ones brought here from our world..." She said, whimpering. "Then why weren't our parents brought here too?" Rainbow asked tearfully. "I was gonna say we'll find a way." Spike said. "There's always a way, right?" "Time travel..." Twilight said softly, as she now has an idea. "I know what we need to do. We need to go back in time." Twilight's friends regain hope. "Oh, Twilight, you're a savior!" Rarity said, as she hugs Twilight. "Do you know where there's spells for time travelling?" Twilight asked her future-self. "I know where to go." Future Twilight said. "Let's head back to Canterlot." > 8. No Going Back > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Mane Six and Future Twilight arrive at the Canterlot Library of Magic, where Starlight Glimmer and Trixie Lulamoon are seen talking to each other. "Starlight? Trixie?" Future Twilight said. Starlight and Trixie turn to face her. "Oh, hey, Twilight!" Starlight said. "Is everything okay?" "I'm glad you're here. We need your help." Future Twilight said. Trixie looks at the Mane Six and Spike. "What in the world...?" She said in shock. "Even Trixie is different." Rainbow said. Rarity scoffs. "Will you stop saying that, Rainbow?!" She said, completely annoyed. "Hey... Why is there two of you and your friends, Twilight?" Starlight asked. "It was the comet." Future Twilight said. "It brought them here from the very past." "Ah, I see!" Trixie said. "I'll admit, I really miss seeing the little Twilight Sparkle." "Me too. Gee, how much time has gone by." Starlight said. "Uh, who are you?" Twilight asked Starlight. "Sorry, young Twilight." Starlight said. "My name is Starlight Glimmer. I became friends with your future-self." "Okay, so, Starlight and Trixie, do you know if there's any time travelling spells to send me and my friends back home?" Twilight asked. "Our parents are dead." "Hmm... well, you came to the right place!" Trixie said. "I do happen to be a travelling magician." "And I did use to go back in time once." Starlight said. Rarity gasps. "Really!?" She said. "That is great!" Fluttershy said. "Okay, Trixie and I will go look through the archives and see if we can find anything." Starlight said. "Hopefully they're still in one piece." "Oh, thank you so much!" Twilight said. "I knew you'd be the right ponies for the job." Future Twilight said to Starlight and Trixie. "Just leave it to Starlight and the great and powerful Trixie!" Trixie said, as she and Starlight walk off to the archives. "Do you really think this will work, Twilight?" Pinkie asked. "Don't worry." Twilight said. "We can count on them." One hour later, whilst the Mane Six and Future Twilight have been waiting, Trixie and Starlight return with saddened looks. "Goodness, Starlight and Trixie, we've been waiting for an hour!" Twilight said. "So, have you found anything?" Future Twilight asked. "Um, we..." Trixie said, as she sighs. "So... we looked through all the archives, and did a lot of research, but... we haven't found anything time-related." "What?" Twilight said. "We even had a few more ponies helping us out, but there was nothing in the database." Starlight said. "We've done everything we could." "Guys, I... I don't understand." Future Twilight said. "There's gotta be something to bring them back home!" Twilight is losing hope. "Please, isn't there anything else?" She said, begging. Starlight and Trixie look at their supporters, who shake their heads in disagreement. "No, Twilight." Starlight said. "We're sorry, but since the comet changed everything... we also found out that... the hourglass is gone." Trixie said. "So, the spells for travelling through time... are no more." "You and your friends are stuck here. Forever..." Starlight said. Twilight and her friends start crying. "What…?" Fluttershy said. "No…" Rarity said, weeping. "Granny…" Applejack said. "Mom and Dad…" Rainbow said. "We’re… we’re not going home…?" Pinkie said. "No… we’re not… and we’re not gonna see our parents ever again…" Twilight said, as she runs away, sobbing. "Twilight!" Future Twilight calls out, but Twilight runs out of the library. She starts crying as well. "I’m so sorry…" Starlight and Trixie hug her. Future Twilight returns to her house. "Twilight?" Future Spike said. "What's wrong, darling?" Future Rarity asked. "I'm so sorry, guys..." Future Twilight said. "'Bout what?" Future Applejack asked. "What happened?" Future Pinkie asked. "It's our past-selves." Future Twilight said, as she sniffles. "They're not going back..." "Huh?" Future Applejack said. "What do you mean?" Future Rainbow said. "The hourglass in the Canterlot Archives is gone, because of the comet." Future Twilight said. "So Trixie and Starlight haven't found anything time-related." "So you're saying that your past-selves are stuck in this world for good?" Luster said. Future Twilight nods. " Yes..." She said softly. "I guess that means we're stuck here, too..." Luster said sadly. Future Spike hugs Future Twilight. Future Twilight takes a deep breath. "But we're not giving up." She said. "What are you saying?" Future Spike said. "Ever since Celestia retired and I became ruler years ago, I always said we would never give up when we get into hard times like this." Future Twilight said. "If something bad happens, then it's always up to us to fix everything." "But, what are we going to do?" Future Fluttershy asked. "If our past-selves don't have a family and are alone, then..." "Then we should adopt them." Future Twilight said. The others are shocked and surprised by Future Twilight's words. "What!? Adopt ourselves!?" Future Rainbow said. "Are you kiddin'!?" Future Applejack said. "Absolutely not!" Future Twilight said. "I know it sounds crazy and weird, but it's the only way. I'm ready to become a mom. As long as you are." "Well, I'm already married and have a son, so... I think I'm gonna have a past-self daughter!" Future Pinkie said. "I guess I'm already qualified." Future Rarity said. "You guys are gonna adopt your past-selves!?" Luster said. "I can't believe what I'm hearing!" "Yeah, me either!" Future Spike said. "All right, I need you guys to go and tell your friends about this." Future Twilight said. "And once you've done that, find your past-selves and tell them the news. I'll take care of Twilight." "We're all in this together, right?" Future Rainbow said. "We sure are, Sugarcube." Future Applejack said. "Okay, guys, let's get to work!" Future Twilight said. > 9. Friendship is Family > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After agreeing to adopt her past-self, Future Rainbow flies over Cloudsdale and sees Rainbow on a bench. She flies down to her. "Hey, Little Dashie." Future Rainbow said. Rainbow turns to face her future-self, then turns away. "What are you doing here?" Rainbow said, still feeling devastated. "Hey... I wanna talk to you." Future Rainbow said, as she sits on the bench next to Rainbow. "I heard what happened, and... I'm really sorry." "'Sorry'?" Rainbow said. "But you're me." "Yes, believe me, I know that." Future Rainbow said. "Look around..." Rainbow said. "Cloudsdale isn't what it used to be anymore, Derpy and Scootaloo have changed... and Mom and Dad aren't here... I miss them..." "Rainbow... I miss Mom and Dad a lot more as you do." Future Rainbow said. "Heck, I even miss my little pet, Tank. Didn't you know that he didn't like going out in cold winters?" "No." Rainbow said. "In my world, before Tank died, I feared that I would be nothing without him." Future Rainbow said. "But my friends told me that I'll always have them. Because in the end, having the most awesome best friends that you love is what you should always be proud of." "I do love Twilight... and Applejack." Rainbow said. "Me too." Future Rainbow said. "Actually, Rainbow... I have something I wanna tell you." She holds Rainbow's hooves. "So, me and my friends had a meeting together about what we can do to fix everything. And we had an agreement... that I would become a mom... to you." "What?" Rainbow said. "If you have no parents, then I'm not letting you go through life without one. Me." Future Rainbow said. "You're saying... you're going to adopt me?" Rainbow said. "Yes." Future Rainbow said, nodding her head. "And hey, I can even help you become a Wonderbolt. How cool is that?" Rainbow gets up from the bench, as she couldn't believe what her future-self said. "Are- are you serious right now? Because I don’t know if…" She said. "I am, Rainbow." Future Rainbow said. "I’m serious as a racer and a mother can be." "No! No, I don’t want… I…" Rainbow said, but she gives in, crying even more. "Mom…!" They hug, and Rainbow weeps. At Sweet Apple Acres, Apple Bloom, Big Mac and Sugar Belle see the two Applejacks walking up to them. "Hey, Applejack." Apple Bloom said. "Are you okay?" "She's still upset about what happened, but I told her about what we're gonna do to help." Future Applejack said. "Guys... I always loved doin' my job and havin' adventures with my friends." Applejack said, still crying. "But with Granny gone... I'm scared..." "I'm scared too." Apple Bloom said. "We know things aren't what they were in the past, but that doesn't mean you have to give up in life." Sugar Belle said. "Ain't that right, Big Mac?" "Eeyup." Big Mac said. "And Granny Smith would always want you to be happy, and be proud of who you are." Apple Bloom said. "Really?" Applejack said. "That's right." Future Applejack said. "The truth is, is that you're never gonna be alone, Sugarcube. And I ain't gonna let that happen to you. Do you understand?" "I miss Granny Smith so much already..." Applejack said. "So do we." Future Applejack said. "But we’ll always have each other, Applejack." "And I'll always have my favorite sister." Apple Bloom said. "I love you, guys." Applejack said, cheering up. "C'mere..." Future Applejack said. Applejack and her future-self hug. "I think this calls for a group hug." Sugar Belle said. Apple Bloom, Sugar Belle and Big Mac join in for a group hug. Pinkie and her future-self arrive back at Sugarcube Corner. "Cheese, we're here!" Future Pinkie said. "Hey. So, are you all right, young Pinkie?" Cheese said. "No..." Pinkie said, still in tears. Cheese puts his hoof on Pinkie's cheek. "Hey, hey... It's okay." He said. "I heard what happened at the library." "I still miss my family..." Pinkie said. "Pinkie... I miss my family, too." Future Pinkie said. "And we're sorry you can't go back home. But that doesn't mean you can't have a home here." "What are you talking about?" Pinkie said. "We had a chat earlier, and, uh... we decided that we would take care of you." Cheese said, smiling. "Is this real?" Pinkie asked. "Am I really gonna live here?" Future Pinkie nods. "Welcome to your new home, Pinkie." She said. "Welcome to your new family." Cheese said. "Aw, guys…" Pinkie said, as she embraces and hugs her future-self and Cheese. Lil' Cheese joins them for a hug as well. "Oh! And Lil' Cheese is now your little brother." Cheese said to Pinkie. Pinkie gasps. "I have a little brother!?" She said. "You do now." Future Pinkie said. "Hello, Lil' Cheese." Pinkie said. "I'm going to live with you now, all right?" "Are you staying?" Lil' Cheese said. "She sure is." Future Pinkie said. "That also means we now officially have a DAUGHTER!" Cheese said happily. "CAN YOU BELIEVE IT!?" They all laugh. Rarity and her future-self are back at Carousel Boutique, where Sweetie Belle was waiting. "Oh, gosh." Sweetie Belle said, as she hugs Rarity. "I'm so glad you're all right." Rarity sniffles. "Thank you, Sweetie..." She said. "So, are we really doing this?" Sweetie Belle asked Future Rarity. "It's the only way." Future Rarity said. "This is now your home, darling. We'll look after you from now on." She said to Rarity. "I just don’t want to live without a family…" Rarity said, crying. "Rarity, I won’t let you." Future Rarity said. "You’ll be happy with us." "And no matter how young or old you are, you will always be the sister I love." Sweetie Belle said. "Even though there's two of you now." She snickers. "I love you too, Sweetie dear." Rarity said. The three have a group hug. Fluttershy and her future-self are back at their cottage. "I had a talk with my friends, and I agreed that I would mother you." Future Fluttershy said. "Why would you do that?" Fluttershy asked. "Because I don't want you to be lonely." Future Fluttershy said. "Are you really going to be my new mother?" Fluttershy asked. "Yes, Fluttershy." Future Fluttershy said. "We can even take care of the animals together. Okay?" Fluttershy nods tearfully. "Thank you..." She said. The two ponies hug, and Future Fluttershy sighs. Twilight and Spike are sitting near a river. "Twilight, I..." Spike said, as he sighs. "I just wish there was something I could do to help." "No, Spike..." Twilight said, still crying. "There's no going back home now... We're stuck here forever, and Celestia has retired..." "But, your future-self is the ruler." Spike said. "I think it's because you made that happen! You should be proud of that, right?" "I don't know..." Twilight said, whimpering gently. Future Twilight arrives. "Spike?" She said. "Can I have a moment with Twilight, please?" "Okay." Spike said, as he walks off. Future Twilight sits next to Twilight. "Hey. How are you feeling?" Future Twilight asked. Twilight sniffles. "Horrible..." She said. "I don't belong here..." "Neither do I." Future Twilight said. "Look... I'm very sorry I didn't tell you about Mom and Dad. I was just too scared." "'Scared'?" Twilight said. "You know what? It doesn't matter. You're me, and you're now the ruler of Equestria." "But what Spike said to you was right." Future Twilight said. "You've chosen the right path and took it, and look what you've made me become. You made that happen, and you should be proud of yourself. Celestia would be proud of you, too, just like she was proud of me." "But what about my parents?" Twilight said. "Our parents." Future Twilight corrected. "They would feel the same way. But, I have some news I wanna tell you." "What news?" Twilight said. "I had a discussion with my friends, and we came up with an idea of what we could do to help you and your friends." Future Twilight said. "And, we've decided..." "What did you decide?" Twilight said. "I’m going to take care of you now, Twilight." Future Twilight said. "I'm going to adopt you." Twilight couldn't believe what her future-self was saying. "You… you mean it?" She said. "I do, sweetheart." Future Twilight said, smiling. "But, what about my friends?" Twilight said. "Are they getting adopted?" "Yes, they are." Future Twilight said. "And I'll do whatever it takes to make sure you will still be happy with your friends." "I miss Mom and Dad so much…" Twilight said, sobbing as she hugs her future-self. Future Twilight hugs her back. "I miss them too." She said. "But everything will be okay, I promise." > 10. The Start of Something New > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twilight, her friends, and their future-selves have regrouped together. "So, are we all okay now?" Future Twilight asked. "Yes, we are, Twilight." Future Applejack said. "We've explained everything and will look after them." Future Rarity said. "And Pinkie has got herself a little brother." Future Pinkie said. "Thanks, guys." Future Twilight said. "Um, excuse me?" Twilight said. "I have something I like to say... to my friends." "Fire away, little Twilight." Future Spike said. Everyone chuckles. Twilight walks up to Fluttershy. "Fluttershy... you have the most sweetest voice in the world." She said. "And you're even the most kindest animal care taker I've ever seen. I was even amazed when you took on that big bear the other day." "I never wanted to hurt him that bad, but at least I made him friendly." Fluttershy said. "Thank you, Twilight." "Don't forget about the giant dragon." Future Fluttershy said. "Rarity... you are the most elegant fashion designer ever." Twilight said. "The dresses and the jewelry you make? I don't think anyone can topple you." Rarity starts tearing up. "Oh, darling..." She said. "That was the most sweetest thing I heard you say to me." "Applejack, the most amazing and honest pony I've made friends with." Twilight said. "The apples you harvest are always perfect and delicious." Applejack sniffles. "Aww..." She said lovingly. "You know, if I haven't met you or any of your friends, Twilight, then I wouldn't have had any adventures. But I'm darn proud to be your friend." Twilight begins crying. "Rainbow Dash... my most loyal and 'awesome' friend." She said. "You perform the most spectacular rainbooms. You can always be 20% cooler if you want to be." "I was born to be that way, you know?" Rainbow said, sobbing. "I hope you'll become the greatest Wonderbolt ever." Twilight said. "To me, you're unstoppable." "Thanks, Twilight." Rainbow said, hugging Twilight. "I always wanted to make you and my friends proud." "Pinkie Pie... my most hilarious friend." Twilight said. "You throw the biggest parties that everyone loves." "Well, sometimes I can be too crazy, and... I don't wanna annoy you." Pinkie said. "No, Pinkie." Twilight said. "You always make me happy, and that's what I love about you." "And I love the way you care about me." Pinkie said. "We care for each other." "And Spike... my best friend." Twilight said. "You've been by my side ever since I made you, and you've also been studying and learning everything about the Magic of Friendship with me. I wouldn't be anything without you. You will always be my right-hoof dragon." "I wouldn't be anything without you too, Twilight." Spike said. "And the most important thing is... I wouldn't be anything without any of you girls." Twilight said. "And we feel the same way." Rarity said. "I love you, guys..." Twilight said, whimpering. "We all love you." Applejack said. "We're your family." The Mane Six and Spike have a group hug. "How much I've missed this." Future Twilight said. "Yeah, me too." Future Spike said. "Friendship is always magic." "Not just that... It's family." Future Twilight said. Twilight then realizes something. "Oh, actually... Mom?" She said to her future-self. The others felt surprised. "You... you called me 'Mom'!" Future Twilight said, chuckling. "Hey, Little Dashie called me that, too." Future Rainbow said. "May I ask you for one more favor, please?" Twilight asked. "Absolutely." Future Twilight said. "Anything you want." "Um, about Spike. Do you see something a bit off?" Twilight asked. "What?" Spike said. "Who?" Future Spike asked, confused. "Little Spike, or me Spike?" Future Twilight takes a look at both Spikes. "Ah, yes, I see what is missing." She said, realizing. "What? I've still got my medal, haven't I?" Future Spike said. Future Twilight snickers. "Little Spike?" She said to Spike. "Step right here." "Uh, okay, Your Majesty." Spike said, as he walks towards Future Twilight. "Perfect. Now stay still..." Future Twilight said, as she uses her magic on Spike. The others gasp, as they see that Spike now has wings, just like his future-self does. "Twilight? What happened?" Spike asked. "Spike... You have wings!" Twilight said, amazed. "Wings?" Spike said, as he looks at his wings, surprised. "Ah, that's what was missing." Future Spike said. "Hey, this means..." Spike said. "You can fly!" Fluttershy said. Spike feels overjoyed. "I can fly!" He said, as he starts hovering above the ground. "YES! I CAN FLY!!!" He starts laughing. "That'll do nicely." Future Twilight said. "Thanks, Mom." Twilight said, smiling. "You know... you may be me, but... you make a great ruler." "And you make a beautiful princess." Future Twilight said, smiling back. "How do you think me and my friends will turn out?" Twilight asked. "You do great." Future Twilight said, putting her hoof on Twilight's cheek. "Just don't ever stop doing what you love." "I promise." Twilight said, as she and her future-self hug. "Hey, Twilight!" Luster said, as she arrives. "Oh, sorry, I'm talking to the young Twilight." "Hi, Luster Dawn." Twilight said. "Or may I say 'my star-student'?" "Our star-student." Future Twilight corrected. Luster giggles. "Hey... I heard what happened at the library." She said, feeling sorry. "I'm really sorry that you miss your family. I know what it feels like to lose someone you love." "Yeah... But I have a new family; my best friends." Twilight said. "That's really nice." Luster said with a smile. "And I also have a new mom." Twilight said. "I'm surprised." Luster said. "You know, um... in the other world, I always had trouble making friends... until your future-self helped me." "Well, like I said, making friends is never a waste of your time." Twilight said. "It just takes a lotta hard work to maintain your friendships." "But things can be very hard without friends." Luster said. "I guess it is hard for us being in a whole new world, isn't it?" "You're right." Twilight said. "We have so much to learn about all these new things. But I'm sure we'll get used to it, especially since this is our new home now." "Uh, can I ask you something?" Luster asked. "Sure. What is it?" Twilight said. "Since I've made some friends, I thought that... it would be cool to make even more new friends." Luster said. "That is great, Luster." Twilight said. "Yeah, but... I wanna be friends with you, Twilight." Luster said. Twilight feels surprised. "So, will you accept my friendship?" Twilight gives a warm smile. "You know what, Luster Dawn? I do!" She said happily. Twilight and Luster hug. "Whoa, have you made a new friend, Twilight?" Spike asked. "Just now!" Twilight said. "You guys saw me, right?" "Can I be friends with you guys, too?" Luster asked. "Of course you can!" Fluttershy said. "We sure like makin' some new friends, Sugarcube." Applejack said. "We can even have so many awesome adventures together!" Rainbow said. "Ooh! You know what this calls for?" Pinkie said. "What?" Luster asked. "A NEW FRIEND PARTY!!!!" Pinkie screams happily. Everyone laughs. "Never change, Pinkie." Twilight said. "Hey! What about us?" Scootaloo asked, as she arrives with Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom. "Scootaloo!" Rainbow said, as she hugs her. "You can't have a party without the former Cutie Mark Crusaders!" Apple Bloom said. "I would really love to join my little sister for the party." Sweetie Belle said. "Oh, Sweetie darling, I would never leave you out." Rarity said, giving Sweetie Belle a kiss on the cheek. "Don't leave out the great and powerful Trixie, as well!" Trixie said. "Count me in, too, young Twilight Sparkle!" Starlight said. "Oh my gosh!" Twilight said, giggling. "Okay, now everypony's invited!" Luster calls out. "FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC!!!" Everyone said together and they cheer. "How the Magic of Friendship grows." Future Twilight said. "Do you think they'll be okay now, Twilight?" Future Rainbow said. "Oh, I'm sure they will be, as long as they're together, and as long as we take care of them." Future Twilight said. "So... it's never goodbye, right?" Future Spike said. "No." Future Twilight said, smiling. "This is just the start of something new." "Come on, guys!" Twilight calls out. "You're all invited!" Future Twilight chuckles. "Wait for us, Twilight!" She calls out. The future Mane Six and Spike run off with Twilight and her friends to the party. THE END At the new Silver Shoals, Celestia regains consciousness and gets up. "Where am I?" Celestia said, as she looks around the place. "Luna? Luna!? Luna, where are you?!" "Celestia!" Luna said, as she runs to Celestia. "Oh, my sister!" Celestia said, as she and Luna hug. "Are you hurt?" "No, I'm fine." Luna said. "Where are we? What is this place?" "I have no idea." Celestia said. "I don't even know how we managed to survive the... impact...?" She looks at a sign and reads it. "'Welcome to your retirement home! We hope you enjoy your lovely stay.'" "What is that?" Luna asked. "I think we're still in Silver Shoals." Celestia said. "What? You can't be serious." Luna said, as she and Celestia look at the apartment in shock. "What happened to the apartment?!" "I don't know, it wasn't like that!" Celestia said. "I think it has been expanded and..." Luna turns and sees something. She gasps. "Celestia, look!" She said. Celestia and Luna see some yachts in the distance, where the ponies are having a huge EDM party together, dancing to the music and having fun in the swimming pools. "We must've been sent into the future, haven't we?" Luna asked. "What the heck is going on here?" Celestia said. TO BE CONTINUED...