"I hope he is ok...I am sure he is just at Canterlot. He would know to go there instead of just going on is own....He is smart enough to figure that out."

Twilight quickly writes a note using a magical pen and paper.

"Dear Princess Celestia"

I know we haven't written to each other in a while since I have been busy with my formal duties, but I have received a strange note from you. Here is an imprint of the seal that was on the note and the handwriting is strange. Please, if Spike is there, send a note back. I have a bad feeling about this. If this was from you or someone there who had to write on your behalf, please contact me. We are heading to canterlot just to make sure. " They quickly head towards canterlot.

"This is not good," Twilight says with tension in her voice. She slows her flight....as the others catch up

"What do you mean sugar cube?" Applejack says as she saddles up to her. Twilight points to the balloon they use to go to Canterlot.

"It's still here...if Spike made it to Canterlot, this wouldn't be here....I was hoping it would be gone and we could try to fly/climb up...but this is bad. Hurry. We need to go. I will meet up with you!. Just then she shoots straight forward. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy look at each other

"Wow! She must be really worried, she NEVER flies that fast...it's the fastest I have even seen her. It may be actually difficult to catch up!" They both launch at top speed. "AT THIS RATE...SHE MAY ACCIDENTALLY DO An RAINBOOM." Rainbow dash shouts noticing the air thin around her somewhat, Fluttershy barely being able to keep up, but is able to pace her so far. The others climb into the balloon and with some wind assistance from Rarity, help speed up the balloon journey.

As twilight approaches Canterlot, she notices the air thin around her more and more. She suddenly realizes how fast she is going and the air is just to start a cone around her when she reaches her destination. She flies around a few times in a circle to attempt to slow her speed. Since she was unaccustomed to stopping at such fast speeds. She is able to reduce her speed far enough that her wings are able to slow her down and stabilize her descent into the inner chamber, Where Princess Celestia and Luna are looking over a map of Equestria.

They both look up startled to see Princess Twilight in a frantic state. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy finally able to catch up. The others still halfway up the rock formation.

"Why Hello Princess Twilight. Uhh. Is everything ok? I heard you have some visitors!" Princess Celestia comments.

"No..Not... All...Right," she manages out of breath. The toll of the flight catching up with her.

"Spike...Spike...Is he here?" she manages to belt out before taking a series of deep breaths.

Celestia and Luna look at each other worried.

"Unfortunately No. We haven't seen spike at all. In fact. Something strange happened as our Cutie marks flashed and with this map, A marker flickered at your castle. We haven't seen this map be active for a very very long time. More than a millennia. Now Spike is missing. This is not good at all."

Princess Twilight collapses on the floor. Almost defeated.

"I don't know what to do...Spike..."

Princess Luna picks up the Letter she sent and scrutinizes it.

"This symbol...It is very old...very very old...I think I may have recognized it...but only when I was younger than a filly....strange. Well, Twilight. You have always wanted to spend more time in this library. I think maybe the answer might be there." Twilight picked her muzzle up. Tears filling her eyes. The ponies collectively give her a hug. Not used to seeing her cry.

"We will help. We won't stop until we can find out what is going on" Princess Celestia Decree's and removes her crown and jewels and puts on a straight petticoat. Princess Luna does the same.

"Princesses!" Rarity shockingly replies. They both smile and say "Work clothes" and float into the Library. The others follow suit. They travel into an immense library filled with countless tombs of various shapes and sizes and languages. Both foreign and domestic. Twilight stretches her hooves and immediately starts pouring through books. The others do as well. The princesses pull out books by the dozens and cycles them through like a conveyor belt. One by one.

About 12 hours later, their pace slows down significantly when Twilight, being the only one that hasn't slowed and has kept her magic going non-stop. Pauses for a moment.

"This isn't working. I am going to do a flyby and check to see if any magic books are active." Making a statement and not asking a question. A worried look comes across Princess Celestia's face as she keeps on looking. As determined as ever. Pinkie is in awe at their stamina. Eating cakes and drinking coffee to waken her up. Rainbow Dash shakes her head to stay awake...gasps as well.

Princess Twilight whispers "Spike...hold on" and flies back and forth from aisle to aisle. Over and back again. Frustrated she grunts and picks a humongous shelf in the back, and shouts out. "Enough of this!" and with her magic, pulls all the books out simultaneously. Looking for any glowing books. She repeats this again and again. Two, Three, 5 Shelves at once. An hour later at the far recesses of the library in the ancient lore section of over 5000 years to 10000 years, she finally comes across an old glowing book.

"I am glad I didn't go further back...I would not want to see those books older than this. I don't think I can handle that!" She gently pulls the book out and flies back to the others.

"Girls! I think I found something! Princess Celestia, Princess Luna! Do you recognize this book at all?" The cover is completely in black, except for a small crest or symbol on the cover. No writing on it what so ever. But the book itself is glowing a slight green glowing aura.

"Alas No...but if memory serves me...I do recall being told about this Tomb from my Grand mama in her Philly days. This book is indeed old. I believe it may even be in the wrong section. Yes...that crest...tis the same on the scroll.Very dark indeed. I would use extreme caution in opening this book."

Twilight looks at the book with doubt, but shakes her head and says out loud."I can not. I need answers to find spike...and the answers are Inside this book!"

She lays the book gently on a table and slowly starts to open it.

"Buuuuut...just to be on the safe side..." She activates a Magic bubble around everyone. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna nod towards each other and add's a couple more layer of reinforcements around the bubble.

As predicted, slowly opening the book, There was a quick flash of light and searing heat emanated from the book. Then it dissipated. Though the slight green glow aura still permeates the pages.

It is blank...at least it is initially blank. Then there is some ink suddenly forming on the page.

"Just like the book that I shared with Sunset Shimmer! But...something is forming here....let's look" Suddenly letters start to appear on the pages as if an imaginary typewriter started to form letters and then words and then sentences.

But the writing was quick. They looked at the page and in simple enough language it reads.'

"Hello, Princess Twilight, Luna, and Celestia. We have your Dragon pet....He is currently indisposed. Currently hanging over something that would react very negatively with dragon scales.

Princess Twilight, Come and bring your precious 'Friends' with you....not the other sisters ...they stay home. Just the 5. That is all you need anyway, isn't it? Bring them.

"Dude...It smells like a trap" Rainbow Dash reads and then comments.

"Trap? Definitely!" Pinkie states.

"Yes Yes, Indeed. It does sound like a trap. But unfortunately, I really don't have a choice....Though I do have this with me" Princess twilight pulls out a small beacon piece to hand over to Princess Twilight.

"Just in case I am in a situation I can not get out of, This, I found this and found a use for it...It will detect when I am in an impossible situation. Suddenly the book starts to write again.

"Bring them to the Jungle. In this location " The book displays the area south of the Evergreen forest, further south into the desert, and then to the far reaches of the map where few have tread. Further south until they reached a Tropical Jungle atmosphere...the extreme boundary of Equestria.

"Wow...that is so far away"

Twilight thinks for a moment and grabs a Pen. Under great duress, she starts to write in the book.

"Is he truly there?I need to see him"

Suddenly a picture on a book displays a bound and gagged Spike, Then the picture went blank.

Twilight roughly tosses the book back.

"Urghh. Even at top speed...Girls. I know this may be asking a lot...."
"Twilight..." Rarity trots over and lays a hoof on her shoulders.

Suddenly her Eyes shine in intensity.

"NO one hurts my Spikey Wikey. NO one. Nothing is keeping me away from this journey."

"Yeah. I know I rag on him a lot...but he is family ya know?" Rainbow Dash pipes in.

"Twilight. I think...if I may.I can safely say that we are all in on this together."

She smiles and nods.

"Thank you, friends. This..whatever this is.....picked the WRONG ponies to mess with. Low blow taking out spike. Let's go immediately. Fluttershy? Umm. Could you have one of your flying friends pass words to our umm..responsibilities and tell them that we have an emergency? I think..the Cakes? The Boutique...Well. We have to head to sweet apple acre's on the way anyways...and maybe stop by your shack if needed?"

"Will Do Twilight!" She chirps in a high-pitched singing voice and several birds fly out to meet her. She whispers into their ears and each bird don's a small mail hat and nods formally and shoots out quickly. Rainbow Dash raises an eyebrow

"Impressive speed!"

"Oh and one to...cloudsdale?" Twilight asks Rainbow Dash

"Nah...and the Wonderbolts are on hiatus for a while. They will know what's going on when everyone else talks..no worries" she spins in the air flexing her wings. She stops mid-flight and pauses "Wait...what about Tank? Err..Our pets?" she suddenly get's a bit teary eyed.

"Well, shoot. That's easy enough! Bring them over to the farm! The Cutie Mark crusaders can meet us there and Granny and Big Mac handle animals all day! Plus...Pinkie? Aren't your relatives coming in to visit?"

"Oooh yeah! The whole family was coming over to visit me! But they were going to 'Rough and Tough it' on the farm! Hey! That is awesome! We all visited them. They can in turn visit! Maud will love identifying all the Rocks on the farm. Oh and I KNOW Marble would like to visit with Big Mac again. They can all handle the pets. Oooohhh!! They can all spend time with Gummy! He will be soo happy!" Suddenly she blows on a party favor that is etched with images of Gummy.

"Sure Cous...I think it would be a great idea! Plus they can interact with the others. Think it will be ok Fluttershy? I know you have some more...er......exotic needs"

Fluttershy blushes and peeps back "Yes, they will be ok. As long as they get their veggies!" She grabs a scroll tucked away from under her wing.

"Here...a small list of daily requirements.." The scroll accidentally opens up revealing a huge list. Applejacks eyes widened and kick the scroll closed.

"Wellllll I am sure we can accommodate...shooo...thats a lot. But with both families, shouldn't be a problem."

"Yesssss siree! Most people don't know this secret...but..Limestone Pie.She has a soft spot for animals!!" She whispers rather loudly.

"That one? Softspot? I confused her with a Rock" Applejack made a face. Pinkie started to laugh uncontrollably.

"Whaaahahahaaa aha ha. A rock. A ROCK! That is hilarious! So true! She IS a rock...wow Maud would love that! Holders Boulder Shoulder Holder! Applllesss you ARE part of the family!" She grabs her tightly causing applejacks eyes to bulge out slightly.

"Great! We will head on out then. Think we can get supplies from the Farm Apple?"

"Ha! We are always prepared. You never know when there is going to be a storm, bugbear attack, or villain that destroys the farm...it seems to happen every week!" suddenly Applejack makes a disgusted face and looks directly at you (Yes you the reader!).

"True...but we always seem to be able to fix things. Though this time. I don't think we have the luxury now..." Twilight packs the book carefully into a satchel she pulls out, and another book called "Where is Twilight".

Princess Twilight looks towards Princess Celestia.

"I hate to ask..."
(discord)
"Go Twilight. I attached Spike to you for a reason. Find him. We will watch over Poneyville and the Evergreen forest. In fact, I was going to head there shortly to run some errands. Plus I heard of a certain castle getting decorated. I haven't gotten a chance to see it yet! Sister. Could you watch things here for a bit?"

"I would be delighted. I will help out in any way." She trotted over to Twilight.
"Do not fret. I am sure he is fine. I have been in his dreams. He is worried, but he knows you are out there looking for him. He is confident in you. He has every right. You will find him Twilight. I tried to pinpoint his location from his dreams...but I couldn't spot him...yet. I will keep on trying."

Twilight sighs a bit in relief "Thank you Princess Luna....that actually helps me out a lot. " She hugs her and trots out the door.

"Good Luck Princess Twilight!" Celestia announces. She waits until she leaves the doorway.

"Sister....I don't like this. With everything, that has happened lately. Especially with all the focus that Twilight has had lately. I have a bad feeling about this...We need to prepare for the worst. For her sake and all of ours," Luna nodded looking over some papers. She floats one over to Celestia.

"Look at the patterns. We knew she had potential...but each situation has escalated bigger than before. " Princess Celestia looks closer at the passages and suddenly the lines about discord light up.

"Time to do more research. We can't have Twilight steal the limelight in the library department!" They trot back to do more research.

 

"Hey, Twilight. We will meet back on the farm. We will gather our things and meet you back there. Bring your animals and we can keep them here for a spell until things settle down." Applejack points while trotting along side.

"Good Idea! I know that Owlowiscious has had fun with the other animals in the past. He should be fine." Applejack nods and heads towards the farm.

"Oooh, Slumber party for Gummy! He so loves the others...I think he enjoys all the cake!!!!" Pinkie bounces around.

"But ..Cake? We don't..." Twilight shakes her head

"Wha???OH, I always supply them with cake!!!"

Rarity sighs "THATS why they are always hyper when we get them! Pinkie!!!" Pinkie smiles and shrugs.

"Ha Ha! See ya!!" Pinkie bounces away and zooms towards her home. The others split up as Twilight veers off into her castle.

"What am I going to get...what do I need? Oh, spike. You always knew what I needed when I had sudden trips...Well, research for sure...gems for snacks, and some hay burgers...and ooooh some smoothies! I love smoothies!" She stops suddenly realizing she is talking to herself and slows down a bit and lowers her head.

"I will find you spike. We will fix this....you can have all the bubble baths you want...".

*** Sweet Apple Acers ***

"Ahh Tootn" Granny smith exclaims as she sips some cider

"It just ain't the same...We need more spices!" She guzzles the rest.

"mmmm Still good though....". She tosses the mug to the empties in a cart by the discarded apples used for Cider making

"On it!" Apple bloom shouts as she trots over to the bags of cinnamon and spices, and pushes a bag marked "Special blend" flopping it onto the ground as she shuffles it over to the cider processing machine.

"Big Mac...can you give me a helping hoof?" She nod's as she nuzzles another bag

"Yup!" Big Mac places a hoof on a bag and hits it rather hard causing it to flip in the air. It lands on his snout as he carries it over to the machine and tosses the bag into an opening. The machine churns as the bag spits out of a side opening.

"Yep! Ever since ol doc worked this machine, We can make more and more cider...." Granny smith shouts over the machine noise with Apple bloom shouting

"What?"

"I said..the good ol doc..."

"What!?!?!?"

"Ahh NEVER Mind...." Granny smith shakes her head and trots on over to the dispenser unit. Pure Gold goodness drips into a barrel set up for more Cider. She sips some of the runoff and yelps in glee.

"Now THAT hit's the spot! Almost as good as the stuff I save for special 'casions..."

Suddenly a cloud of dust approaches the northern horizon.

"Sheesh...What in tarnation is that??!?! Is that a Twister?"

Big Mac trots over to look, while Applebloom smacks the machine as it grinds the apples sluggishly.

"mmmm..." Big Mac pulls some spectacle out of nowhere...

"Uhh....Nope....AJ"

"Wh...AJ? SHE is causing that?" Suddenly just as the words summoned her, Applejack comes in quick like a rocket, Dust, debris and smoke on her trails.

"Granny Quick! Supplies! Emergency!" She starts to pant
"Tarnations sis! I never seen you run so fast!" Applebloom runs over with a Mug as AJ collapses on the ground and grabs the tankard with both hooves to chug the Golden drink

"uh...uh..oooh. This is good!" She pants a few more times then settles herself.

"Spike is missing. We need to get supplies ready as we have to head south. As far south as any pony has ever been. It may be a trap...Sis...I need you to watch Granny and make sure the Farm is ok. Call in the family if you need..."

Applebloom looks concerned as she has never seen Applejack look so distressed. She places a hoof on her shoulders

"You can rely on my big sister....you trained me well" Applejack smiles and nod's

"I Know I have...you have grown so big and so strong...but your still my lil sister...never forget that!" She sighs deeply and rests a bit. Big Mac leaves the barn to go into the house and gather supplies. Picnic Baskets on the ready.

"We will get things ready here AJ...you rest." Applebloom nods again as Granny follows into the kitchen. They gather materials to make sandwiches, smoothies, hay burgers, cider, and compact fritters and all sorts of premade apple foodstuff.

"Lucky...I just made a whole bunch of Apple Pot Pies..to test ..I think this will be a good field test..." Granny Smith opens a bunch of cupboards to fill the baskets.

"Winona! " AJ calls out as she slowly enters the kitchen to assist on the preparations, but she quickly notices that everything is working as she smiles

"Yep...all growed up" watching Applebloom gathering supplies and making sandwiches as quick as anypony can.

Winona runs in and jumps on top of applejack and licks her all over

"whhaa... ok...ok..good to see you, girl..." She giggles a bit.
"Winona.." Her pet sits and pants waiting.
"Ok...We need to go for a bit..the other pets...yes you know them...they will be staying here. Just lie other animals...keep them from destroying the place ok?" She pets Winona on the head with her hoof. Winona barks as if understanding.

"Keep them together and watch out for each other. Like we do." Winona lowers on all 4 paws and whines a bit. Listening to Applejacks voice and hearing concern.

"Ohhh don't fret suga...everythings gonna be ok.." The others stop mid pack to look over to Applejack.

"Are you sure you're ok?" Granny smith looks towards her. Applebloom whispers into Big Mac's ear and he Nod's. Applebloom bolts out of the door.

"Applebloom!" Applejack shouts, but Big Mac stands in front of her.
"Nope!" We got this AJ..." Big mac replies...Applejack looks helplessly on..but nods.
"I guess you do...dang it...it should never have gotten so bad" She removes the items from her pack on the various pet dietary requirements. Granny Smiths eyes open wide to Fluttershy's scroll.

"Sheesh....we will do what we can..."

Applejack nods and retreats to her room to get her supplies together.

***Pinkie***

"Gotta Get it...gotta get it...gotta..." Pinkie zooms as fast as any Pony can run. She zips into her place as Gummy is sitting right on top of a suitcase.

"Gummy! You packed for me already! How sweet!!" she nuzzles him...but then stops.
"No time. No time..but...awww.." she sneaks in a quick nuzzle and grabs her bag and Gummy. She Spins around the whole place, jams a few Party Cannons into her small bag. Then she jams some pies, cakes, streamers, and a small blow up tent into her small bag.

"Just in case.." she nod's and tosses the bag onto her back. Nuzzles Gummy and tosses him onto her back. She smashes her face into a yummy looking pie and eats it whole as she mumbles

"For the road" and closes the door. The lights dim in the house as it stands quietly.

***Rarity***

"I simply must prepare for all occasions. We are going south...so it's warm. A light fare. Isn't that right Opalescence!" The cat mews with a stern look. Rarity grabs a bunch of outfits from a rack and squeezes them into a garment bag. Almost packing Opal as she isn't looking. Opal jumps out of the way barely getting zipped up

"Oh darling I am so sorry...but we must go..." Rarity packs up a full tent with trimmings and sewing kits, and the whole like. She stacks these bags on top of each other and uses her magic to float them behind her. She has Opal on top of the bags

"Yes, I must drop you off at the Apple farm. You can be with your friends...yes yes you know they are your friends" she smiles as Opal frowns
"I know...I know. But I do not know how long I will be gone...and I do not want to leave you alone...Deary you know you will be ok.." Her voice shakes a bit as a tear forms. Opal stops her normal tirade and actually looks concerned for once. This is unlike Rarity to express herself. She starts to cry. Opal widens her eye as this is not typical at all.

"Oh, Spike....What has happened..." she drifts off accidentally packing all these jewels into her bag. Pilling them on weighing them down.

"We must be ....going.." she looks down and trots out slowly dragging the bags magically behind her. Opal on her back..patting her head.

***Fluttershy***

"Ok, Mr. Bear. You, Bunny and Mr. Beaver will be in charge... Lead them to the Apple farm. Front and Center!" Fluttershy meeps out gently. But firmly. The animals all line up in single file. "Ok hut one two three!" Each of the Animals has a backpack of supplies set up on their backs. The squirrels in the background working hard making makeshift backpacks with a small list of items of food and drinks. Working like a mini factory line.

"Very good Mr. And Mrs. Wholenut. We need good organization! Dare I say close to Twilights organization skills!" The two squirrels gasp at such recognition and nod in synchronized fashioned. The animals march out in style as Fluttershy swooshes around her cabin.

Pop

"Hey, Fluttershy! Where are you goiiiiing..." Discord appears out of nowhere.

"Oh, I have to hurry. Spike is missing...We got a disturbing message...Hey, Discord you have been around a while?" Fluttershy twitters as Discord floats over a cup of tea and biscuits and drinks the biscuit and eats the tea.

"I have been known to be around a while..travel the world...see the sites...Well, one time I even went to this place where this tower actually LEANED at an angle. I wish I could say I did it..but it was not my handiwork...they had very good food there....yum" Discord suddenly appears with an overgrown mustache and a chef's hat. As he replies with an obvious Italian accent.

"Well we got this note...and it had this symbol on it...." Fluttershy digs into the ground delicately to draw a symbol. When she finished, she noted that Discord was unusually quiet. She looked up and Discord was staring at the symbol gritting his teeth and looking pale.

"Where did you see this symbol" Discord replied with gritted teeth and with perfect pitch and clarity. Not slurring a single word and in seriousness. His eyes glowing red and his body stiff. Fluttershy has never seen him this way.

Fluttershy immediately tells him everything that happened.

"I am so sorry to hear this Fluttershy. I believe this is my fault. I need to talk to Princess Celestia Immediately. I believe you are all in danger. This IS a trap." Fluttershy is about to say something when he stops her

"I can not go with you. As much as I would want to, I would be a danger to you and everyone around. I need to prepare defenses here and make sure not a single pony, animal, creature or anything is harmed here. This is MY home now and I will NOT let her harm anyone that I care about. Fluttershy. Understand this. You are going into something very dangerous. Do not let HER confuse you or distract you. You know what needs to be done and what you can do. But I am afraid this is bigger than even you and your friends are ready for. But...I have seen great potential in you and in Poneyville. I am sure everyone is ready for this...I must go" He bows to Fluttershy in all earnestness.

"Go in safety my dear. You have touched my heart in more ways than you can even imagine. We will see each other again" He gently kisses her forehead making Fluttershy blush. But a look of concern covers her face. Suddenly Discord disappears.

"What...was all that about?" Fluttershy looks at the space that was her friend...
"This is scary...I don't know what to do..." Fluttershy sheepishly says...and slowly walks out the door. She puts on a hoodie as Angel Bunny hops into her hood.

***Rainbow Dash***

"Ok Tank...We must head out fast. I know the others will need leadership. Cool guys like us are natural born leaders. Just make sure you aren't TO hard on them ok?" She nuzzles tank gently turning red but then shies away. She starts flying around and packs her stuff in blinding speed. Tank flitters around in circles as Rainbow expertly dashes in and out around Tank. Used to his flying motions. She swirls around so fast that she looses control and hits her bed a bit hard

"Oof! A bit to much wing on that one!!!" she shakes her head as her eyes go all googly.
"Ugh...I got to stop doing that" She blushes as she grabs her bags with her mouth and tags Tank with her and dragging him along at quick speed. Shutters closing automatically. Lights dimming in her house as well.

***Twilight***

Slowly trotting into the castle.

Discord suddenly appears.

Twilight suddenly stops short.

"Discord...I have no time..."

"Princess Twilight. We need to talk. This is urgent." Twilight whispers to herself "Princess?" with a startled look, as she notices that Discord does not look like his usually jovial self.

"I need to talk to Princess Celestia and Princess Luna as soon as we are done talking, sooner the better. I had to say a quick farewell to Fluttershy. I am taking to long as it is..." He looks as if he is about to say something. Pauses and looks into Twilights Eyes.

"Princess Twilight...I fear you are in grave danger. Everyone is."

"I do not have time for riddles and games Discord. I need to pack as I am in urgent..."

"This is no game." Twilight notices for the first time that Discords eyes are Red and that he isn't his usual jovial self.

"Here...I can not talk about it as I fear it would draw too much attention. Remember the Potion you drank from Zacora that would explain the past? Well here. I believe this can explain it safely better then I can talk about it.

From nowhere, Discord produces a Potion filled with clear blue liquid.

"Drink this and you will see a little bit of what you are facing."

"Uhh, The liquid is blue...The one Zacora gave me was white."

"Yes, I just added a little flavor. This may be a serious matter, but I DO have a reputation to uphold of being different and well...me...ha ha!" Discord laughs, but Twilight notices that the laugh was forced and that he is concerned.

"Very well. No tricks, though!" Twilight casts a small spell on the liquid.
"Just in case. I put an Anti sleeping/poison spell on this. Actually, its to remove any harmful effects"
Discord rolls his eyes but then nod's.

"Understood. I need to go anyways. I have....a lot of preparations..." He turns away and whispers just before he leaves " Good luck, my friend. I wish you well. I wish you all well" and a tear forms in his eyes.

Twilight pauses for a moment to see if Discord re-appears. Satisfied that he is gone, She drinks the liquid.

"Mmmm It does taste better" the liquid tastes similar to a mixture of Lemonade and Tea. Her eyes flash a solid blue and suddenly and she is brought back to the past. She is watching a space...filled with darkness and mist. No real substance. Just a floating. No ground and no sky. Mixtures of Black, Blue, Purple and other mish mosh of colors

"urgh..." Twilight says as she quickly thrashes her hooves around trying to make sense of this place. She attempts to swim but is unaware of how to do so. She stretches her wings out and tries to fly. She smiles as she is able to propel herself.

Then she realizes quickly, where does one go? There is no sky and no ground. No point of reference. She looks around and spots a floating island of dirt with a small thatched house and a mailbox. Curious thing that, a mailbox in the middle of....this. And it is full!

She float/flies over very awkwardly, as the eddies of the stuff she is in, constantly changes and make it difficult to move. She see's some strange odd looking creatures running around in the "yard" of dirt. A Small 3 headed puppy chasing around a 4 headed snakeling. They are very small, almost the size of a kitten. She coo's at the cute site.

Her eyes widen a bit when she realizes what they are.

"Wh...What are you doing here?"

She inches closer to check.

"That is definitely Cerebus and that Hydra we met a while back...but they are babies!" She looks around again.

"I know I must be in that dream world state....but...How far back am I??"

The puppy and snakeling stop to look at her. Panting and friendly.

"Wait..can they see me?" She moves a hoof around and they follow it like a game.

"That's.....that's impossible! I.." They wiggle their prospective butts and jump at her playfully. She giggles as they go through her. She falls forward a bit as they turn around and look at her confused. She looks for a small biscuit in her sack she was packing and throws the item onto the "dirt". They chase after it and both fight for a biscuit they can't seem to touch.

"Hmm strange..." She then notices a light on in the little shack. Shadows cross across the windows as motion dictates this place is not empty. She approaches and knocks on the door.

Well, she attempted to knock on the door, until her hand went through the wood.

"Hehe I keep forgetting" she slowly passes through the door to a hallway. On the right is where there is a living room of sorts. The room was not what she expected. In the room, there was a very fancy couch, a table, dinner and tea cups, a book shelf, and items all sorted out neatly.

Remarkably well taken care of, despite the view outside. It would almost pass for a museum replica of an old house. Very well maintained. But this was not a museum and this was not anything normal. Voices were heard in the kitchen next to the dining room. Which was adjacent to the living room. The Dining room wasn't anything remarkable. A solid wooden table with plates and cups. Nothing on them at the moment. Again, a typical place setting. Twilight drifts to the kitchen.

This is where the "normal" part of the house seems to end. Floating and twirling, she see's pots, pans, food items, liquids, various food items both common and completely foreign to her. The smell was rather strong and strange. Unfamiliar. Now, just having floating food and liquids wasn't enough. Stoves, Blenders, Refrigerators, all floating and moving, Cooking, cleaning, separating, its was an artistry of magical food.

Then she stopped cold as she notices Discord...or rather, a much younger and less "patchworked" discord. This time, he doesn't look like he is pieced together. Just a straight horn, gray, and no other mixed pieces.

"How...how long ago could THIS be...if discord has been around for thousands of years...."

Discord's ear twitched and looked around as if attempting to spot something.

"Oh, thats right. I don't know how this place may react to me...I better just observe" Twilight whispers. Then she takes a breath as she notices a figure in the center of all the whirling pots and pans.

 

A long sigh that sounds like rocks in a tunnel.

"Yes....SON....We can use magic to make things. And everywhere else in all the realms. Yes. You can do whatever you please. In fact. I want to see more out of you. But HERE...in this house. It is my rule alone. There is enough darkness and light to mess things up. But here...this is MY sanctuary. My work is out there, my fun is out there. THIS is where I go to unwind." The figure turns around to face Discord, and Twilights blood chills to the bone.

A figure before her, made of a dark mist, with eyes that are narrower and thinner, completely red. Tendrils of red and black lash out uncontrollably from the mist. Thin gray to purple lips appear in the mist as well, and what can be identified as a very small snout.

"Wait...this looks familiar...like..." Twilight says out loud. The form stops be rating Discord for a second and then says.

"What was that...Discord? Did you bring a friend home without telling me!"

"Why No Mother. I.." he looks down. "I ....Have no friends.." a tear forms.

"I have no friend. I have no friend!" The figure shout's in a dark guttural form.

"You are Discord. You are my Son. Born of Chaos and are a Prince of it! You do not need any friends. The whole realm is yours and you cry about having a friend? Pathetic. I would say you must have gotten it from your dad but..." She stops short. Get's real quiet and her eyes turn gray for a moment as the tendrils and smoke settle a bit. But then returns. This time her eyes flash from Red to Yellow.

"I will Toughen you up Son. I want you to rule this realm and master all that is. This is Chaos! This is Everything and nothing. No Light, No Dark, No Sky, No Earth, NO BALANCE! Everything will be what we wish it. But first....you...you pathetic disappointment of a son."

"But mother. We have all that is around. Yet you spend time here. Why is this place so special? Why does everything have to be neat and orderly here? Why can't I cook..."

"Because I say so! You touch NOTHING here. Go. Leave now before I dismember you or eviscerate you or something. In fact...." Suddenly a wicked smile appears on her face.

"Here is some pain to remind you...and if you think you can ever have a friend...this may remind you. You will NEVER have a friend." Suddenly Discord writhes in agony as his Horn suddenly shimmers and twists, Just then Antlers suddenly grows out of the other side of his head. He collapses and touches his newly acquired headpiece

"th...th...Thank you, mother. May I go out and play?"

"She turns around to return cooking and says "

"Yes, At least try to attempt not to fail me as mush as before. I have to clean up your mess always. Maybe I will toss you into a realm perminently to force you to grow....Get out of here..." Discord lowers his head and floats away.

"I...I..Never..." Twilight whispers as the figure mix and mashes things together. The scene wobbles a bit as it attempts to fade.

The picture snaps back a bit as the figure freezes all the floating items.

"Wait...this...." She turns around to search for something. Twilight realizes that she was returning back from the memory of Discord...but something is wrong. Suddenly Twilight hears a muddled voice in the distance.

"This Magic...someone...something...is here. Where are you sneak." She looks around trying to find Twilight. Twilight slowly uses her magic to back up away.

The Realm suddenly freezes as if all the eddies flowing around the "House" locks in place.

"Oh No, you don't." Outside of the house you hear a faint Discord shout

"Mother? Why did you freeze the realm? I was about to go and play..."

"Not now son." she shouts.

Suddenly her eyes turn back to Red again and a beam of light appears.

"NO one Hides from Eris! Queen of Chaos!" suddenly her eyes start to scan the area. Twilight attempts to move and she suddenly realizes that she is frozen in place! She uses her Magic to attempt to break free. The voice from the far end get's a bit louder as she can almost hear a faint discord in the background, but the older, modern version. She realizes that he is attempting to break her out of here.

She takes a deep breath and focuses all her thought and power into breaking the magic. The vision starts to warble and shimmer.

"Oh...so powerful magic is in work here...so much...but I will find you." Eris screeches. Twilight realizes the voice almost sounds unintelligent. Suddenly she starts saying words that are unfamiliar to her. Twilight quickly realizes that this is very dangerous and needs to leave.

Suddenly the beam of light shines on her. She notices a red glow form around her.

"Ah HA! There you are! Now to see who you are..." The beam starts to change color to Black at her forehead area, and it slowly creeps forward. Twilight, scared out of her wits, realizes that if that beam reaches her target.

Twilight closes her eyes, concentrates.

***Back in Modern Equestria*** Twilight, eyes still Blue, Her crown with the element of Magic starts to vibrate. Discord is yelling at Twilight to wake up and attempts to shake her gently.

"I know I shouldn't...But I had to show her..I ....I had to.." Suddenly the element shoots up into the air and floats.Spinning and vibrating. Energy emanating from the Element.

Far in the Everfree forest, the Tree of harmony starts to vibrate and hum.

***Back in the Realm of Chaos***

Twilight's eyes start to glow Blue in the realm as the red beam wavers...

"Such...power..." Eris awes for a moment.
"If only my Son could be...but who could this possibly be? What!!!?!?! No, You will NOT leave" Suddenly the beam wavers and then attempts to solidify, as the black beam stops its progress. Suddenly the air is filled with a soft vibrating hum

"This noise...no..it can't be...NO!" She attempts to shoot the black beam in full intensity when the whole scene shatters like glass and Twilight is back in the waking world.

Twilight slumps a bit as the Element of Magic settles back down and the Tree of Harmony ceases its hum.

"What...What was THAT? Discord if you..." She pauses for a moment realizing what she has just seen..she softens her words, as Discords face is somber and filled with aged sadness.

"Discord...I saw everything..what was this all about?"

"That, My friend, is what you are up against. Or at least I believe it is so..."

"Wh...you are not sure?"

"Well, Mother and I....we were never a ...close family as you can tell. So I know very little, and much less after my exile..." He looked away for a moment.

"But yes, for some reason, The Queen of Chaos, Eris, is after you. Unfortunately, that is all I know....I was thinking that she could be a real mother, and teach me things....but..." he absentmindedly rubbed the antler.

"Things just didn't work out, SO I decided to teach myself and have my own fun!" Changing the topic and attempting to return to his jovial self. At least the attempt was there. Twilight new better, but realized that she had to go, but also didn't want to push a sore subject. A lot of what was Discord finally made sense.

"Thank you Discord. You ARE a true friend, and you now have several. Never forget that." She smiles and Discord smiles back.

"That is right! I do! I really do! Take that Mother! You said I would never...and look at me, I have made several. Failure? Ha! I have succeeded where you couldn't even dream!" He cackles a bit but then settles down, and floats some food packs to Twilight.

"Here...where you are going, it gets a bit Hot...this bread is naturally cool and will cool you off as well. It's a "Life Changing" bread. You will like it! As Discord shuffles the bread around a piece of paper with the recipe falls to the ground.

"Ooops...secrets and all" He laughs. Twilight catches the words Chia Seed and Flax Seed.
"Oooh! Maybe one day you can share?" Twilight laughs. As Discord takes a bite and eats it.

"Hmmm maybe! I should share these. These are great!"

"Anyways Twilight. You have a difficult road ahead. You all do..." Discord looks out into the distance as if seeing something in the far horizon.

"Well, I am sure you guys will be ok. You always pull through, friendship and all that...you know."

He pauses as Twilight looks at Discord a bit closer noticing actual concern. Something that hasn't happened since Tirek.

"Besides...you need to get my gaming buddy back. 'ts not guys night out without him and all...yes yes...you go get the scamp back will you?" He shuffled around in typical discord fashion. Attempting to be aloof but oddly enough his voice sounds serious. Obviously concerned. Twilight makes a mental note.

"Will do Discord. Can't break up the team and all....I know Pinkie and Rainbow love the games. I heard even Fluttershy might join. I heard something about druids....I may look into this as well. I love the organization and chance of the dice and the character sheet...." Twilight realised she was just rambling, even though she was completely honest. She realized this just wasn't about game night.

"We will get him back Discord." Discord looks off into the distance again.

"Yes...Yes...I am sure you will...hmm. I have to part for now. I need to .....prepare. Just remember. As long as I have been around. She has been around much MUCH longer. And has experiences beyond this realm. I believe she has been all over. Some of the stories I have heard...I can hardly believe its true...at least I hope not. Some of it sounds truly horrid."

Discord waves as he rolls himself up like a fruit roll-up and then poofs in mid-air. Twilight waves and chuckles a bit. She then pauses remembering the experience.

"I wonder...How long ago that was. And these other realms. She may have the knowledge I would even know existed. Hmm. Discord never says anything without it connecting in some way...even if COMPLETELY ridiculous...I will have to think about that...." She suddenly starts to get self-conscious as she realizes that she is alone in a quiet area. She decides to pack

"Oh, Spike..." She packs the rest of her gear and whistles as Owlowiscious flaps over quietly, Several books, sleeping bag, foodstuffs, camping gear and other outfits all float together and stuff inside each other until a backpack is formed. She settles the backpack gently on her back and looks around at the castle.

"Hmm, I should safeguard these books. There is a lot of potentials here..." she mumbles and casts an invisibility shield on the shelves to make the books look like the wall. She looks thoughtfully at the montage she and her friends made of the battles fought and won. Looking over at the portraits of the enemies. She pulls out one book silently and reads it thoughtfully. Repeating the words out loud. The chair that she uses to sit during map meetings, glows gently for a moment and then recedes.

"Just in case..." she whispers out loud. Floating the book back onto the shelf. She slowly departs, heading for Apple Acres. The door closes gently behind her. A soft purple mist fills the room in a cloud of sparkles floating and stationary.

***Apples***

Applebloom rushes towards the train station as she plops her flank right by the open gate where passengers depart.

Suddenly the train appears and settles down.

"STOP: PONEYVILLE" The conductor shouts

"NEXT STOP: CANTERLOT GROUNDS....DEPART" the doors open and ponies transfer back and forth onto and off of the train. Suddenly a group of shadowy laden Ponies depart. The Pie family all together. Maud and Marble out in front. Maud steps up and looks at Applebloom

"Hi" Applebloom burst in smiles

"Maud! So good to see you! I miss you! We had so much fun last celebration! You do know how to cut loose!!!"

"Thank you. I miss you too"

"Wow! Come come! We must get together! AJ mentioned that there is something going on...we need to get the animals together and keep them safe at the farm. Are you guys up to it?"

Marble was about to speak up when Limestone juts in front.

"We Pie's can handle anything!" and trots off. The rest follow Applebloom back to the farm, Baggage in tow.

 

As the Pie family arrives, the hustle and bustle of activity of family and friends, as well as an assortment of animals. All converge on the farm. Appleblooms eyes widened at the sheer number of animals walking single file into the various barn's and locations. The Main 6 running around caroling the animals and talking to the Apple family, drinking cider. Suddenly Maud Run's quickly

"Pinkie!" she says slightly louder than normal.

"MAUD!!!" Pinkie shouts as Applejack jumps back but notices the pie family and waves a hoof at them. Pinkie Does a ninja move and tackles Maud onto the ground. The two families say their hello's as some of the apple family bring a cart of pies and various food stuff for everyone to eat.

"Ya know, its good to see the families back together. It has been a while, but we so do enjoy sharing tales now" Applejack leans back next to Pinkie after she gets back up from Tackling Maud. Limestone nuzzles a small rock in front of her to set it near the pie stand and uses it as a seat. The other pies do the same.

"Granny? We will be heading out shortly, Pinkie we will need to gather some supplies for the trip. The others should be here shortly after they round up their pets"

"Wooo" Pinkie nuzzles Gummy

"Well, Yessiree We will get those packs ready as can be...Big Mac. Can you help me out a spell tieing up the packs with me?

"Yup!" Big mac trots on over while Pinkie continues to make wooing noises with Gummy. Apple just watches and shakes her head.

"We shouldn't be too long...but you never know...if it takes a spell...just run into town if you need it. I left some of my bits in the barn for supplies and all"

Granny Smith nod's as most of the animals have sauntered into the makeshift pet refuge in the barn. A few stragglers lay behind. Including a rather frightened bear.

"Now Mr. Bear....you need to be brave!" Fluttershy speaks.
"The other pets will be looking up to you!" Mr. Bear looks concerned at Fluttershy and doesn't budge.

"I Know you're worried...but Angel Bunny and the others are there as well. You can have Tea and Veggies, and all sorts of good things! Plus you can make some new friends! They will take care of you. Right?" Fluttershy looks around at the Apple family who all nod.

"See? Everything is going to be alllll right...there...there" Fluttershy flies up to pet Mr. Bear who looks very sheepishly at her and nods gently giving her a hug and tears up a bit before walking into the barn.

"Ohhhh.I do hope he will be ok. I have never seen him so frightened. But I believe they will be ok!" Fluttershy drifts down slowly.

"Of Course they will! Tank will watch out for all of them. He is an awesome leader and he's got this! With him there. All will be smooth and cool" Rainbow smiles and flutters next to her. She makes a wooshing sound with her hoof to emphasize.

Fluttershy smiles but looks back worried. Rarity pats her Kitty as she pushes a rather plush mini carriage into the barn and hands Big Mac a "Diet" list. He widens his eyes after reading a few of the lines and shakes his head. But tucks the scroll into his side for safe keeping.

Off to the Side Twilight whispers into Owliscious as he Hoots once and flutters into the top part of the barn. Twilight smiles and puts a small spell on him and joins the others.

"I think everything went well without a hitch! We should be on our way." Twilight says as she puts on a travel hat and covers. Applejack trots towards the house and returns a few minutes later with a cart of packs of supplies and the likes all set up for the trip.