Twilight woke up to the sound of an alarm. She washed her face, put on her glasses and tried to brush her mane. She wandered down stairs for breakfast.

Princess Twilight was wide eyed and twitching like she had drank a gallon of coffee. She was staring at a book and refused to look anywhere else. Starlight Glimmer was reading a newspaper and Minuet, Twinkle Shine and Lyra Heartstrings were gossiping together. Lemon Hearts, Salto and Spike were talking quietly to each other and sipping black coffee. Princess Luna was eyeing Princess Twilight as she began muttering to herself.

Twilight dished herself and sat alone. Sunset walked in, dished herself and sat next to her.

“How did you sleep?” Twilight asked her girlfriend.

“Better.” Sunset said smiling.

Sunset’s mane was a complete mess. Twilight wanted to run her fingers through it.

“Is it bad?” Sunset asked. “I didn’t check the mirror.”

“I want to run my fingers through it but I can’t!” Twilight complained.

“We can cuddle later.” Sunset said.

“Yes!” Twilight said happily. She leaned on Sunset and took a deep breath.

Sunset put her hoof around Twilight and leaned in to nuzzle her. After a moment they went back to eating. Sunset levitated her fork to feet Twilight.

“Have you seen Iunae?” Sunset said looking around.

“No.” Twilight said between bites.

“Hey! Has anyone seen Iunae?” Sunset shouted.

Everypony looked around and shook their heads.

“We need to look for her after we are done eating.” Sunset said.

Princess Luna got up and walked out of the room.

Sunset and Midnight ate in silence. The two of them were putting their plates on the cleaning tray when Princess Luna walked back into the room.

“Iunae is somewhere in the Canterlot Royal Library!” Princess Luna announced in a booming voice.

The ponies all flinched.

“How do you know?” Midnight asked.

“I am aware of a ponies general location when I interact with their dreams.” Princess Luna said in a more normal voice.

“Let’s go.” Sunset said.

Salto lead the way to the library. The group trotted up the steps when Salto brought them to a stop.

“Let’s come up with a plan on how we are going to search the library without disturbing anyone studying.” Salto said adjusting her glasses. “I propose starting where we think she is most likely to be and then comb the library row by row. Each of us taking different sections.”

There was a nod of agreement.

“So where do you think she is likely to be?” Salto asked.

“Well the two sections we visited in Princess Twilight’s library were the pregnancy section and the beginner magic section.” Midnight said.

“Sunset, take the medical floor, Minuet take the second floor.” Salto said. “Any other sections?”

“Does she have a favorite subject?” Lemon Hearts asked.

“She told us she double majored in physics and robotics.” Midnight said.

“What’s robotics?” Princess Luna asked.

Sunset and Midnight exchanged uncomfortable glances. “I can try to explain it in pony terms some other time. It is not a subject we have in the library.”

“What about Rai?” Minuet asked.

“What do you mean?” Sunset asked.

“What’s Rai’s favorite subject?” Minuet asked.

“I don’t remember.” Sunset looked at Midnight.

“Psychology and biology I think.” Midnight said.

“I thought it was chemistry.” Sunset said.

“They are both on the same floor.” Iunae cut in quickly. “Lemon Hearts take psychology, Princess Twilight check the physics department. Twinkle Shine search the biology and chemistry floor please. Starlight go to the astronomy department. Lyra go to the music department Princess Luna would you search the top floor and the restricted section please?”

The group nodded

“What are we forgetting… the fifth floor, Spike will you search that floor plase? I will search the first floor and the foal’s department.” Iunae said.

“What about me?” Twilight looked around.

The ponies all looked at each other uncertainly.

“You can come with me.” Salto said.

Princess Luna summoned ten maps from inside the library. Princess Luna closed her eyes and all the ponies and spike were lifted off their hooves for a moment. The spell broke and every one returned to the ground. Princess Luna passed out the maps. “I enchanted them. If you find her say circumspicio into the map.”

“Alright let’s go.” Sunset said and the group split.

Midnight found herself left behind. Sunset pointed out where the library was and had promised a full tuar when they had more time. Midnight scrambled inside and spotted Salto waiting for her impatiently.

Salto set off at a brisk pace. Midnight struggled after her. She was still learning how to trot.

Salto methodically walked from row to row searching. She had the library memorized. The first floor was the biggest by far. Salto explored the entire main room with Midnight trailing behind. Occasionally Midnight would fall over and Salto would stop and wait.

“Well that was the main area and the specialty rooms of the first floor.” Salto said. “I didn't really expect to find her.” Slaot looked at the map. “No one else seems to have found her. Well the only place left is the foal’s library, let’s get this over with.” Salto marched off. The foal's library was attached to the main library but was its own structure.

Midnight felt scared. We have been searching for her for over two hours! Someone should have found her by now. I don’t think I can handle one more missing person.

Salto held the doors to the foal’s library open for Midnight. Midnight walked through and looked around. There were foals everywhere. The walls were light blue and there were beautiful paintings of butterflies and birds all over the wall. The ceiling was domed. From the center of the dome hung a glowing replica of the sun beneeth it the floor was raised into a circular platform there were pillows and cushions and blankets everywhere. The shelves radiated out from the center. She shelves were short and bursting with colorful books.

Salto glanced around and then began searching the children’s library just as methodically as she searched the adult library. Salto walked much slower this time and kept an eye out for running foals.

“Can I help you find something?” a librarian walked up to them and asked.

“We are looking for a mare that looks just like me.” Salto said without missing a beat.

“One of my colleagues said he saw a mare reading in isle 54 when he was reshelving.” she said.

“Thank you.” Salto headed straight for it leaving Midnight to hurry after her.

Iunae was curled up on a cushion, wedged in between two shelves, picture books were scattered all around her. Her belly rose and fell slowly.

Salto pulled out the map and whispered the word.

Midnight approached Iunae. She reached out a hoof and gently touched Iunae’s shilder. “Hey Moon Dancer how are you?” She said gently.

Iunae didn’t respond.

There was a flash of light and Princess Luna materialized. There was another one and Sunset materialized.

“I will meet you all back at the palace” Princess Luna carefully levitated Iunae and the two of them vanished.

One by one Princess Twilight, Spike, Minuet, Twinkle Shine, Lemon Hearts, Lyra Heartstrings and Starlight Glimmer came into the foal’s library.

“Well?” Princess Twilight demanded.

“She didn’t look to good.” Salto said.

“Why was she in the foal’s section?” Starlight Glimmer asked.

“I don’t know. Let’s go back to the palace.” Midnight said.

“I don’t know…” Princess Twilight interjected. “I think we should use the fact that we are already at the library to our advantage and go back to trying to come up with a location spell.”

“Maybe some pony should check on Iunae and spend time with her.” Lemon Hearts said.

“Well I’m not going. I’ll be on the fourth floor trying to locate Rai.” Princess Twilight marched off.

The unicorns all glanced around at each other.

Spike cleared his throat. “How about all of you go help Princess Twilight and I’ll go with Midnight to check in on Iunae. I’ll send you an update.” Spike offered.

There was a general nod and the unicorns trudged back out of the foal’s library and up the stairs.

“I noticed that Princess Twilight carries you around on her back. I could try to do that for you.” Midnight said to Spike.

Spike shrugged. “You don’t need to.”

Spike lead Twilight to the front doors of the foal’s library and out into the hot sun. Twilight squinted and Spike shaded his eyes as they glanced around. The few ponies who were outside were hiding in the shade or under large sun umbrellas.

Spike and Twilight walked the short distance to the castle and into Princess Luna’s office. Human Moon Dancer was sitting on a large cushion with a blanket wrapped around her. Princess Luna was helping her sip tea. Her eyes were bloodshot and her ears drooped.

Twilight rushed forward “Moon Dancer! Are you alright? I was so worried about you!”

“I’ve been better.” Moon Dancer said quietly.

Twilight opened her mouth to reply when her stomach growled loudly. Twilight blushed deeply.

Princess Luna cleared her throat. “Pardon me but I am afraid I must give you the boot from my office. I have an important meeting that I cannot postpone. Trust me you do not want to be there.”

“That’s fine.” Moon Dancer said through a yawn. She stood up and stretched. She walked stiffly out the door.

Twilight and Spike walked out after her.

“So now what?” Spike asked. “Should we go out to lunch?” he asked hopefully.

Twilight and Moon Dancer stared at him and then looked at each other.

“Aren’t you supposed to be helping the princess?” Twilight asked.

Spike puffed out his chest. “I’m a free dragon. I can do what I want! Besides she didn’t specifically request I help her.”

“Alright. Let’s swing by our rooms and you can write that note you promised and then we can go get something to eat.” Twilight said. Moon Dancer nodded and the three of them walked to the bed chambers that Princess Luna had set up for them.

Twilight and Moon Dancer both struggled to get their saddlebags on by themselves and then put their purse bags in them.

After sending a letter to Princess Twilight, Spike waited patiently for Twilight and Moon Dancer.

“Finally!” Spike exclaimed melodramatically when Twilight and Moon Dancer were both ready.

“Oh come on Spike, we didn’t take that long.” Twilight protested.

“So where should we go?” Moon Dancer asked.

“Let’s go to Leaf and Ladle! They have the best sandwiches!” Spike said hopping up and down.

“Lead the way!” Twilight said.

The magically air conditioned restaurant was a delightful welcome to the three sweaty travelers. The three walked up to the lunch counter. Spike hopped from foot to foot excitedly.

“Do you know what you want?” Moon Dancer asked him.

“Yes!” Spike said happily.

“What do you want?” Twilight asked Moon Dancer.

“I don’t know. It all looks… foren.” Moon Dancer said quietly.

“Yeah. I was thinking about ordering the lentil soup because it looks the most like what we have back home.” Twilight whispered.

“Yeah. I was thinking I would get the spinach salad for the same reason.” Moon Dancer whispered back.

“Are you two ready to order yet!” Spike whined.

“Yeah.” Twilight said. “I would like a bowl of lentil soup please.”

“What kind of bread would you like with that?” the server asked.

“Sourdough please.” Twilight said.

“I want a roasted Camas and Calendula sandwich with extra lemon juice please!” Spike said excitedly.

“I would like a spinach salad with the dressing on the side please.” Moon Dancer said.

“Alright that will be a few minutes, please choose a table and I will bring your food when it is ready.” the server said.

Spike, Twilight and Moon Dancer wandered to a table near a window and took seats.

“So since we’re in town are there any errands you want to do?” Spike asked.

“Where would we go?” Moon Dancer asked.

“Clothes, jewelry, toys… Oh! You could buy foal cloths for…” Spike cut himself off as soon as he realized where he was going.

Moon Dancer stared out the window. “Twilight have you ever seen a baby being born?” Moon Dancer asked quietly.

“Uh… no.” Twilight said sadly. “I wanted to be their when my niece was born but… Cadence said no.”

“You sister-in law told me it is important for the mother to have control over the environment. That they can make their own decisions.” Moon Dancer said. “Sunset and I talked about what she wanted. She isn’t going to get what she wanted.”

“Are you absolutely certain? Isn’t there still time to find her before she is due?” Spike asked.

“It’s been sixteen days. She could be anywhere. She could be dead. And there is nothing I can do.” Moon Dancer stared blankly out the window.

“When is she due?” Twilight asked.

“September 27” Moon Dancer said.

“Oh… I thought she was father along.” Twilight said looking confused.

“Yeah. Sunset said it was none of your business… at this point it does not matter.” Moon Dancer said unhappily.

“So now she is eight months?” Midnight asked.

“Yes.”

“But ponies gestate for eleven months. So… what does that mean?” Spike asked.

Moon Dancer turned to stare at Spike incredulously.

Spike shrank back in his chair.

The server brought their food. Spike recived a tall sandwich stuffed with a meaty past and blue and orange flower petals spilling out.

“What is in that?” Moon Dancer asked.

“Roasted Camas roots and Calendula flower petals!” Spike said happily. “Camas doesn't grow near Ponyville but it is amazing! They roast the roots and then mash it into a patty with some herbs and it is Awesome!” He took a huge bite and chewed with a big smile.

Twilight stirred her soup and tasted it. A warm feeling washed over her as it reminded her of home.

Twilight watched as Midnight picked at her salad. She nibbled a little. She dipped a fork in the drssing and tasted it. Moon Dancer set down her fork and stared out the window.

“Is it bad?” Twilight asked Moon Dancer between bites.

“No. It’s fine. I’m just not very hungry.”

“You should eat.” Spike said with a mouth full.

Moon Dancer slowly chewed another mouth full.

Twilight and Spike finished their meals and Moon Dancer put most of her salad in a to go box. The three walked out in the blazing heat. They scrambled to get under the shade of a tree.

“So where to next?” Spike asked excitedly.

“I don’t know, what do you think Moon Dancer?”

“Is there a museum we can visit? I don’t feel like shopping.”

“Yes! The capital has three museums! Fist their is the Quetzaliam the biggest museum in all of Equestria. It’s so big it has six museum inside it! Then there's the Museum of Military History next to the Royal Heptagon and last their is the Canterlot Light Catcher, otherwise known as the Canterlot foal’s museum.” Spike explained happily.

“What do you recommend?” Moon Dancer asked.

“Well it depends on what you want to see. The Light Catcher is full of interactive displays and activities. If the theme is good than it is a lot of fun but of the theme is lame then it is… less fun. The Quetzaliam has it all! Twilight and I have spent weeks there and we always learn new things!”

“Sunset set took me to it and we walked through several exhibits.” Twilight said. “It was facinating I would love to go back and look at more exhibits.”

“I would like to go to the Museum of Military History.” Moon Dancer said flatly.

“Why?” Twilight asked.

“You asked what I wanted to do.”

“Alright. Let’s learn about military history.” Twilight said unenthusiastically.

“Okay!” Spike trotted off smiling.

Spike lead the way down the road to a large open park with a pond, a stream a bridge and no trees. There were scrubs and benches everywhere. Twilight and Moon Dancer followed Spike down one of the paths, over the bridge to the other side of the park. There were two buildings. One very tall building made out of white marble and one short building covered in glass panels.

“That’s the Royal Heptagon.” Spike said pointing to the tall intimidating building. “And that one is the museu- hey is that Rainbow Dash? RAINBOW DASH!” Spike shouted.

There was a group of pegasi in wonderbolt uniforms huddled in front of the Royal Heptagon talking to a group of big unicorns and earth ponies in decorated uniforms.

A group of armored ponies swarmed in around spears aimed at their chests. Twilight and Moon Dancer panicked.

Twilight landed on her rump. She held up her front hooves and shouted “I surrender!”

Moon Dancer Did the same thing.

Spike stayed calm. “I am Sergeant Major Spike. These two have top level security clearance.”

The spears retracted and the armored ponies saluted Spike. Spike turned and marched towards the Royal Heptagon.

Twilight and Moon Dancer glanced at each other.they both got shakily to their feet and followed Spike and the armored ponies.

Spike confidently walked up the steps of the Royal Heptagon, past all the burly guards holding loaded crossbows and to the front doors. The front doors were two giant panels of smoaky opaque glass with metal handles. “You have to stare at the enchanted glass without blinking for a minute. The grey smoak pattern in the glass should move and then you have a minute to enter.” Spike said. He moved to demonstrate. He stared intently at the glass. Twilight and Moon Dancer could see a change in the glass. Spike straighten up and walked through the solid glass panel like it wasn’t there.

Twilight and Moon Dancer stared at each other. Moon Dancer stepped forward to stare at the glass. After standing still for a minute, Moon Dancer stepped forward and vanished behind the opaque glass. Twilight was mystified.

Twilight glanced around. The guards around were standing still with blank expressions. Twilight gulped. She stepped forward and stared into the glass. The glass was endless gry. Twilight felt her vision slipping. She looked around but it was endless and disorienting. Her eyes watered and her vision blurred. She wanted to blink. It felt like tiny needles were poking her brain and her eyes began to hurt. The grey in front of her became fuzzy and distorted. They glass was becoming less grey. Twilight felt herself lurch forward. An unnatural cold came over her and Twilight fell over.

Twilight opened her eyes and squinted in the bright lights. She felt dizzy and nauseous. She blinked and looked around. Everything was blurry.

“You okay Twi?” a familiar voice called to her. A memory of waking up after being hit in the head with a soccer ball came back to her. She moved her arm to feel the grass. But there was no grass under her. Cold hard tile. Twilight lurched like she had been electrocuted, her brain working overtime.

The sound of Rainbow Dash’s soft laughter reached Twilight ears and she turned to face a pegasis. She realized where she was.

“I remember my first time coming here. I passed out too.” Rainbow Dash assured her.

“This is cute in all but we have an emergency. Let’s go.” a pegasus with an orange and yellow mane shouted. She turned and marched. The four other pegusi in wonderbolt uniforms marched after her. Spike trotted after them.

Twilight staggered to her hooves and swayed on her feet. Rainbow Dash leapt into the air and flew over to Twilight in an instant and caught her before she fell. “Thank you.” Twilight said her head spinning.

Rainbow Dash helped Twilight walk towards the stairs.

Suddenly there was a sound like sizzling fireworks and Princess Luna was standing in the room. More sizzling and crackling and Princess Twilight and Sunset Shimmer appeared.

Princess Luna spread her wings to their full length. “This is a national emergency. Generals to the Situation Room!”

Every pony in the room began running and shouting.

Sunset sprinted over to Twilight. “Are you alright? Are you hurt?” Sunset shouted panicked.

“She had a bad reaction to the door. I think she will be okay.” Rainbow Dash shouted back.

Twilight nodded weekly.

“Let’s move.”

Sunset and Rainbow Dash marched with Twilight in between them.

Twilight's head was spinning with stress and too much sensory information. She focused on putting one foot in front of the other.

Author's Notes:

Cliff Hanger! Place your bets in the comments!

I swear I had this planned from the beginning. By which I mean this is going somewhere.