Equestria Forever

by CreativeRaccoon

Spike has always admired Rarity. Little does he know that this will lead to his greatest challenge yet. When the Crystal Heart begins to fade, accompanied by his friends, Spike plunges headlong into a quest that will take him beyond Equestria and test his heart as never before. Through a series of wondrous adventures, he may discover that love never hides in plain sight...

1. The Birth of Harmony

I

DISCLAIMER
Any content superseding this statement, written or otherwise, is not my intellectual property.
Such rights belong exclusively with the creators and respective affiliates of the original work.

---

Note: This story has not been abandoned - the current chapters have been undergoing significant revision, due by the end of December.

Equestria Forever
Inspired by My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic

Chapter 1 ~ The Birth of Harmony

"There is no good or evil – only power, and those too weak to seek it."
Lord Voldemort in J.K. Rowling's
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
...

ONCE upon a time, many years ago, there were two bright stars. The first was called Aurora, and she shone like the brightest sun and most radiant of days. Her brother was named Eclipse – the dark star –, and he shone with the deep, shadowed aura of night. Together they watched over the world below, maintaining peace and harmony between light and dark.

Everyday Aurora, the spirit of all goodness and hope, would raise the sun so that its light bathed the world below it in a blanket of gold. The animals living beneath revelled and rejoiced in the glorious comfort and joy her illumination brought. But when her brother Eclipse raised the moon at each day's end, they retracted and slept through his light.

As the dark spirit, Eclipse was naturally prone to the corruption of jealously and all things malevolent. His anger and rage grew as he saw the earthly creatures dancing in his sister's radiance. So one night he refused to lower the moon from the sky. In terror of the night and their fears, the animals locked themselves indoors and the world went dark.

Slowly, but surely, all joy and happiness began to leave them.

With this sombre shadow, dark creatures, spirits of evil and foul intent, crawled and surged forth from the other realm. As darkness held sway, they grew stronger and more terrible, feeding off the fear of the living. The deepest of horrors, now all too real, came to life. Eclipse took satisfaction in their fear, his power eschewing the light and forcing their twisted awe of night. Finally he knew that he was to be feared, not loved. Whence this thought arose, a further malice manifested from below.

Wicked, emaciated beings, born from the dreams of the living, took hideous form. Beginning in the darkest corners of the mind, they became corporal, gradually infesting the weakest animals. Fed by Eclipse, blossoming from his unchallenged might, they continued to grow in number. Beneath the moonlit sky, a terrible race of evil had been born.

Aurora saw what was happening and pleaded with Eclipse to lower the moon. Though, in truth, he still loved his sister spirit more than anything, he refused to do so. She tried again, reminding him of their duty to maintain balance and harmony in the earthly world given to them. She reminded him that there must always be a balance between light and dark, but still he refused.

The age had come, said he, when they would at last be truly equal.

So Eclipse continued casting his fearful incantations, encapsulating his land of eternal night. His twisted creatures relished in his power, so much so that he cast upon them a terrible spell. Forever would they worship him, bound by their reverence. Thus their hearts came apart from corporal form, and were locked away deep beneath the earth. In a mighty chest snared by awful thorns they would remain there for eternity. In doing so, Eclipse believed, they could feel no love, but fed of its power.

Never again would they worship Aurora – they were his alone.

And whence many days had passed, the world now enswathed by shadow, Aurora met her brother again. She declared that there was always darkness in light and light in darkness, but they must find harmony between them. He was no more naturally evil than she naturally good. Still Eclipse refused, declaring their world – her world – would never love him while he shone with the blackest night. Thus, said he, neither would he embrace the light.

Seeing her brother making this choice, Aurora knew what she must do.

Summoning a great deal of her magical ability, Aurora became her earthly form: an equestrian princess with horn and wings – an alicorn. In this form she slashed the earth beneath her and broke the world in two. As Aurora drifted apart from Eclipse, the sun returned and its luminescence once again bathed the land. But the side ruled by her brother remained perpetually in the blackest night.

Gathering all her subjects to herself, Aurora's strength regathered – renewing her magic. When she was strong once more, Aurora flew to meet Eclipse. They met on an island between their two worlds, surrounded by a great ocean. Out of this island, in its very heart, there grew a massive mountain of crystal. It glittered with the sun to the west and reflected the moon to the east. This island was called the Isle of Harmony.

Aurora tried a final time to draw her brother back from the darkness churning within him. But in their time apart Eclipse had only grown in malevolence and spite. In his own earthly form the animals feared him even more. He had decided the only way for him to gain strength was to finally extinguish the light. When she realised this, Aurora vowed she would restore balance, but she would never abandon her brother.

Maybe, in a far off time – in another form – they could both understand and forgive. The choice was now made.

Knowing her magic would begin to fade, for her own and her brother's power was far stronger when united, Aurora summoned up an almighty spell. She sent her blinding light towards Eclipse, who met it with his own blackened curse. Trading their incredible strength, the two spirits fought, rising up to the highest peak of the crystal mountain. Finally the two alicorns – evenly matched and horns locked –, came to a stop, hovering high above the earth.

Aurora felt her light and soul struggling against the burgeoning blackness of Eclipse. She felt his heart beating with malice, intoxicated by shadow. As he returned her magic in equal strength, they were encapsulated in a sphere of swirling magical energy. The sky above turned to night then day, sun and moon rising and falling frantically. Both of them began to wither inside – the balance was failing, harmony disintegrating with their battle. Then a colossal eruption of magic burst from their horns and brother and sister were thrown apart.

The peak of the Crystal Mountain shattered under the combined might of their spell.

As the Crystal Mountain erupted asunder, brother and sister felt their earthly forms waver. Harmony had failed, their magic slowly breaking. As the spirit world began to converge with that of the living, Aurora summoned all her remaining strength, binding her mind with that of Eclipse. She saw his thoughts, his deepest desires and fears – but most of all she saw one desperately misunderstood, who longed for the one thing his nature shunned. She knew that, in some age yet to come, he would understand his purpose; neither could truly live without the other.

So her mind cleared, preparing its final spell.

Exerting fantastic energy from her very will, Aurora stripped Eclipse of his wings, sending him plunging down to earth. A shocking blaze of dark energy burst forth, spreading a blackened curse across the land. Eclipse plummeted into the ocean as his final incantation churned outwards – his horn disintegrating –, forever forming a lineage that would recall his form in theirs. Whence he parted the churning waves, a rippling tremor shook the world with thunder; the Crystal Mountain split in two.

From its broken peak came six brilliant fragments, flung across the land far and wide. The great ocean boiled and rose about the isle, swallowing all before it in rising fury. The newly formed twin peaks of crystal, one radiant with Aurora's absorbed power, the other blackened with Eclipse's dark energy, sunk beneath the waves. Retreating deep into the earth, their magic spread along the veins of crystal running beneath the world. In the Arctic north, a luminescent crown of crystal emerged, while in the Antarctic south, a dark twin formed.

Then the sky roiled and broke apart, sun and moon vanished, and the land pitched and rose, rushing together in a climatic thunder clap.

When Aurora awoke, she found herself lying amidst a forest of mighty trees. Before her grew a magnificent tree of crystal, its trunk born amidst a vein of the very mountain roots from whence it came. The Isle of Harmony was no more, but had become the centre of this new world, marked by the crystal tree. And at its feet had formed a pearlescent pool, a lake of glass in the shape of a radiant sunburst. This, now, had become her brother's prison, and soon her own. Aurora knew she was not long for this world, her alicorn form slowly fading. In pitching Eclipse into the sea, she had divided the spirit world from the living.

The age of their magic had reached its twilight, but there was yet a final deed to be done.

For in the farthest corners of this new world, one evil remained. The emaciated race of creatures born from his darkest thoughts still worshipped Eclipse – and they still hungered for love. Spared imprisonment in the spirit realm, bound by physical form, they endured. Thus, exerting the power bestowed upon them by their fallen master, they would reclaim the land. So it was, surging forth from their caves, they came again.

But they had grown sly and intelligent, still wise to the strength of the light. To combat Aurora they had created their own empress, a supremely powerful being who would have been queen to Eclipse. Born from a cocoon deep within their cave, she was bestowed with his image incarnate. Bearing horn and wings, she would rise and retake the earth for her master, ruling over all its creatures - her subjects sculpted in the same equestrian image.

Her twisted, black magic still strong, but not yet strong enough.

As all of her race were born without hearts, the queen realised they could assume any form at will. They could imitate the darkest fears and dreams of any living thing, as had Eclipse. Feeding of this awful power, they became a like-minded hive of malevolence. They became known as changelings, bending and extorting body and mind. And their queen, the first to shed and transform her skin, became known as Chrysalis.

But a birth of the earthly realm meant a final secret: deep inside, a heart continued to beat.

And Aurora felt this tremor, knew that evil was in resurgence. Not until the final deed could she stifle it for good. She called out on the wind, her melodious song penetrating the furthest reaches of earth. So her people came to her, creatures great and small. They adored her light, but fear was in their eyes. In reverence they listened to her speak.

Told were they of that terrible battle, in which had Eclipse had plunged down to sea. Knew did they of the Crystal Mountain shattering, its magic strengthening the land. As Aurora spun this tale, understanding dawned upon them. Her magic, his magic, would become theirs. It was now unto them, the living, to rule their world. So Aurora bade farewell to her subjects, giving over a great tome that would reveal her final, everlasting testament. Then she became spirit once more, descending into the lake, joining Eclipse.

Whence Aurora passed into the spirit world, the lake splintered like glass.

Its surface had become a mirror, a looking glass that only reflected the world beyond. But now it had become fragmented, broken into six shards – a brilliant sunburst of ethereal light. Thus, gathering about the crystal tree, Aurora's subjects knew what should be done. All would be revealed in the great tome left to them. And so the wisest among them, a revered sage named Star-Swirl, opened the book and began to read.

Its pages told of the breaking of harmony, and the division of the spirit world from the living. Also told was the creation of the crystal tree, and why it had been so. But the greatest secrets were more intriguing. When the crystal mountain had split, two kingdoms had been born from its roots. That of light far to the north, and that of darkness far to the south. At each kingdom, it was said, would be found a crystal heart. A heart of illumination and its dark twin. Whoever was chosen to find them, and discover their magic, would bestow upon their race powerful ruling wisdom, restoring equilibrium.

But only if the two were united.

Immediately, Star-Swirl decreed that expeditions be mustered to locate the kingdoms. For the book had also told that whence the hearts were found, they would lead the bearer to six powerful objects. These objects, created when the peak of crystal had shattered, were called The Elements of Harmony. Once found, the book said, they would be imbued with the greatest of magical qualities, returning harmony and balance to the land. They would also bestow upon the rightful bearer the key to a prosperous age of peace.

But only should the crystal heart, symbolising their spirits, be made whole.

So it was agreed. Heartened by Star-Swirl's wisdom, creatures came from far and wide to seal their oaths, a pact to this one great cause – the common good. And with their vow came a powerful magic. The equestrian animals that bore the likeness of Aurora and eclipse would become the noble rulers of their world. To govern wisely without tyranny: they understood the spirits as no other had. So the great land, in honour of they who made it, became known as Equestria.

A world to be ruled by love and harmony; equality, fairness and friendship unto all.

But meanwhile, waiting and writhing, the changelings were not yet done. They were determined to stop the prophecy coming true, as the book foretold. For they knew it would mean their expulsion from the land. And they waited, biding their time, waiting to strike their new enemy – just when they were at their weakest. The time would come... but even Chrysalis and her hoards were not aware of the final trick played by Eclipse.

The living world was frozen, its balance at a standstill. Sun and moon remained together in the heavens, with no magic to raise and lower them. Only whence the crystal heart was found and made whole, would order be restored. When they who were worthy of this magical lineage be revealed. So too was the shattered looking glass gathered, its parts to be hidden on the journey to each crystal kingdom. Thus the gateway to the spirit realm would remain sealed, only to be breached again should darkness return anew.

And other enchantments, of deep and terrible design, were yet to orchestrate their part...

Born forth from the crystal tree, the equestrians set out to locate the fabled Elements of Harmony. They carried Aurora's book of magical law, its knowledge guiding them in their passage. After many an age of neither day nor night, they came to the far north of Equestria. A towering empire of crystal awaited them, its many facets glowing with pure radiance. Led on by the words of Aurora, they ventured into the caverns beneath the magnificent mount. So it was they came upon the heart of pure starlight.

It was a stunning work of crystal, wrought to the finest detail. From within it glowed like the rising sun. The heart rose from the earth in an upthrust of luminescent crystal, created by the very magic of Aurora, spirit of light. But only one was destined to remove it from its plinth and release its powers. And she, as the prophecy had foretold, had come to accept her destiny. She would be the earthly queen of light.

Galaxy, the fairest mare of a tribe to the east, heard the call, knew the melodious song was meant for her. Thus when she touched the magical heart, she was lit with a mighty flame from within. Her body rose asunder, and became radiant with sunlight. A horn grew from her forehead – magnificent wings blooming at her sides. She returned to earth, bearing the crystal heart, now radiating with luminescent splendour. And on her flanks, at either side, appeared a shining mark in the form of a galaxy. She had answered the call, proved her worthiness; carrying her talisman, she was Galaxy, Princess of the Stars.

So in her wake, the sun resumed its rhythm and night fell – but their quest was not yet through.

The equestrians had yet to find he whose qualities would rule the power of night. So they set out again, this time heading into the farthest reaches of the southern lands; where night lasted for many a year. On what they presumed the thirtieth day, the adventurers came to the darkened mount. Shrouded by the moon's array, this kingdom was instantly more menacing and foreboding. Yet still one heard the call, drawing them into its subterranean vaults. Thus, as with the heart of light, they found its blackened twin.

It too was birthed in a vein of crystal, though it channelled the raw enchantments of Eclipse, spirit of darkness. Its song caressed the ears of one among them, and he stepped forward to accept his destiny. His name was Nebula, a fierce and noble warrior from the west. Whence he laid his hooves upon the heart, it, like its sister, glowed from within. Nebula levitated asunder the shadow it created, emanating with magic. A horn grew from his head, and stunning wings burst forth at his sides. When he came to earth, he, too, bore his talisman.

Now, imbued with his destined power, he had become Nebula, Prince of all Darkness. And like Galaxy, he bore twin marks at his flanks, each in the form of a swirling vacuum.

And this was not by chance, for Galaxy and Nebula had long cared for and loved each other dearly. This had been recognised by the deep enchantments of Aurora, who knew that a true prince and princess embraced the power of love. So together, before every subject of Equestria – for all to see – they reunited the crystal twins. Now whole, the Crystal Heart showered its magical energy forth, bringing the land to life.

The moon sank every night, to be replaced by the sun everyday – thus the land was live and whole once more, as had been foretold. Soon Galaxy and Nebula were wed, and, in a great ceremony, they bore the crystal heart to its rightful place. The talisman was set atop a splendid sculpture, bearing the likeness of their founding spirits, Aurora and Eclipse. Festivities were held in this place which would become the new capital of Equestria.

Spreading its magic, enlivened by the wisdom of its founders, the heart brought vivid colour and joy to all the land.

Even so, the task was still yet to be completed. Stir-Swirl, having been honoured with sumptuous lodgings in their new city, reminded them that the fabled Elements of Harmony remained out of their sight. And an old evil, an ancient evil, had yet to make its move. So, on the first anniversary of their union, Galaxy and Nebula set forth to find the elements. But this was exactly the moment Chrysalis had been waiting for. The heart, though powerful, was vulnerable without its bearers or any magic to protect it.

With wicked glee, the changeling hordes surged into the city – under the blanket of night – and overwhelmed the equestrians within. Before long the city was in chaos, and Chrysalis knew the heart was captured. Wrenching it from its place atop the statue, she bore it high into the night sky. Its power would be hers. Only her changelings would rule now. With the heart before them, Chrysalis would raise both sun and moon. She alone would be Queen.

On the thirtieth day of their journey, Galaxy and Nebula returned to find their beloved kingdom overrun by shadow. Chrysalis stood as ruler atop a twisted throne within the greatest spire. Its inhabitants were cowled in fear of the metamorphosing beings. But hope was not lost: for Galaxy and Nebula had returned with the fabled elements.

Bearing the six crystals before them, the two powerful equestrians cast a great enchantment. On their journey they had encountered many wise beings, who each displayed profound qualities innate to fulfilling their quest. It was with these memories in mind that they wove their spell. Loyalty, laughter, generosity, honesty and kindness had all become recurring symbols without which their venture would have been lost.

And this was the true nature of the journey, as Aurora had intended. Galaxy and Nebula had been chosen to discover the qualities that brought peace and harmony, then to imbue them within the crystals. The talismans themselves were merely physical objects to bear their magic.

Enlightened by this journey, having fulfilled their destinies with the true knowledge of harmony, Galaxy and Nebula encased each element within its crystal. And as Star-Swirl had interpreted in his wisdom, the first five bound to manifest the sixth: magic. For, united as one, the elements, born of love and friendship, were the true forms of magic.

Prince and Princess, each bearing three of the elements, prophesied to hold their power, marched into the city. Changelings fled before them, crawling back into the shadowed cracks of the world from whence they came. But Chrysalis, shielded by the magic of the heart, was yet unmoved. She cast a wicked spell, a twisted black magic, which was met by Galaxy and Nebula.

Though the elements were strong, so too was the heart.

Both were born of the crystal veins running beneath Equestria, its great source of magic. But the heart was a talisman of guardianship, meant to defend and protect those who believed in its power. The elements were restorative; to nurture and rekindle the magic it spread. The two could not clash without great force of will. This was to desecrate and defy their very reason for being. And, inevitably, as had been foretold, disharmony would return. Surging energy spread far and wide, the land quaking in its wake. Galaxy and Nebula knew what they must do.

Such a battle would only unravel the very fabric of Equestria's strength.

Surrendering the elements, they stood before Chrysalis. Now, she vowed, Eclipse would at last return. With the heart's power, she would break the mirror that held him back, and shadow would claim Equestria. So she thought, but it was not to be. For, having found the deepest knowledge of love and respect in each other, Galaxy and Nebula knew a final magic. This too, had been a lesson from their journey. As Aurora had intended, for every Equestrian to see, Galaxy and Nebula shared – in their darkest hour – a simple token of love.

A simple kiss.

And the spell was unleashed.

A great wave of blinding light, invoked from the heart itself, erupted forth. Their horns glowed, their bodies rose high into the heavens. Light, of moon and sun alike, rushed outwards. With a terrible scream, Chrysalis was pitched from the city with her changeling hive, flung abreast a surging body of magical energy. The crystal heart fell to the ground, to be splintered in two once more. And with the kingdom restored, harmony returning, Galaxy and Nebula's enchantment receded.

Banished by her own arrogance, Chrysalis would not be seen again for a very long time.

Thus, with Equestria now at peace, Galaxy and Nebula set about caring for their realm. The magnificent Elements of Harmony were laid to rest in the roots of the crystalline tree deep within the forest where Aurora had descended. Should they ever be needed, their magic would be waiting. As for the Crystal Heart, realising its great magic was too dangerous left unguarded, the prince and princess bid its halves be returned to their birth places. There its spells would continue to thrive, protecting Equestria from afar. Protecting its greatest source of magical power. And, in an age yet to come, great kingdoms would rise about them.

Empires born of crystal.

Their responsibility, they realised, would be to share this magic among all the beings of Equestria. For this was what the Elements of Harmony were about. This was why they could not fight the power of the heart. The elements could not destroy, only create, and help the land flourish. It was a strange and deep magic, as Aurora had intended. The heart, as it had been made, was not only a protector, to be protected, but teacher. While it remained in the earthly realm, its light would remind them of magic's true nature. It could only be as strong as those who believed in its power.

Otherwise, as the spirits knew, it would be their undoing. Love, friendship was magic. And elsewhere was this greatest of magical lore known.

For concealed within the swirling depths of the southern crystal kingdom, in its deepest vaults, was a second mighty tome. Bound and woven by spells of night and shadow, this book foretold its own tale, of a terrible curse. Down through the ages would it filter, biding its time. Waiting for he who would fall asunder a broken heart. He who would enrapture and resurrect the true strength of darkness. Its manipulative incantations were already at work, waiting – waiting to be found.

But not yet...

The volume of Eclipse's design was akin to that of Aurora. Only it sought to rival and undo all her spells of sunlight and joy. Already was it at work unravelling – distorting all her prophecies yet to be fulfilled, whence its own would come to fruition. For the spell contained within it played upon the very history of Equestria. It knew of many spirits who would rise and fall in its lands, ultimately restoring their master. The curse manipulated a path, waiting for its chosen one. Thus it followed,

When sisters turn to fight,
When hearts face their greatest test.
Should chaos enswathe the land,
The Dark Lord shall wake from rest.

But bound he shall be,
By the power of the heart.
Until revealed and whole again,
Can he play his part.

Thus a heart shall be broken,
His lineage stained asunder.
So when the call is answered,
The Dark Lord will rise in thunder.

Trials will he face,
From without and within.
He will know great power,
As great power must he win.

For this equal must come forth,
Of his destiny to learn.
To restore the gateway once more,
Whence the Dark Lord shall return.

And for many an age, this curse, and the spirits trapped with it, would remain unknown – its prophecy yet to be fulfilled. But, in all this time, its magic remained upon the land. In meeting his sister, Eclipse had ensured the earthly world would not be rid of him forever. Without he, the spirit of all darkness, all magic of the night – the magic of the living – was crude and impotent.

So he would wait, biding his time, whence his chosen equal should finally fulfil his prophecy, returning him to power. This was the nature of his curse – it must be fulfilled, light extinguished. So it would, in time; and he had time, patience – all the time in the world. Though even he could not understand the deepest workings of such magic...

Yet the years continued to pass in the land of Equestria, in great harmony and peace. Perpetually unaware of the curse which was hidden within its deepest roots. Only time would reveal the events prophesied by the darker brother. Whence they arrived, its defenders would rise again.

Indeed, Galaxy and Nebula would eventually pass on their throne to two daughters, who would inherit the sun and moon. They would continue to restore and maintain harmony. Balance would be preserved. And so would they face the greatest test of all – a test of faith. Both would meet and defy horrific challenges, but would always be fortified by their love and friendship.

Thus their parent's knowledge would endure, and all malevolence would be kept at bay. Their wisdom would remain a beacon of hope throughout Equestria.

Wisdom which would be tested in times to come. For Aurora's illumination would live on, forever reaching out to her lost brother. Forever wishing to accept and make peace with the night. Yearning for that understanding and acceptance. So the princesses, guiding Equestria as their realm, continued to embrace belief in hope, in love.

Hope, which would be their light when all other lights go out...

Ӂ

SPIKE was sweating, his knees knocking, trembling like a leaf. Before him rose a truly horrible beast, creaking and groaning like a decrepit ship at sea. Twigs and branches sprouted at grotesque angles from its gnarled body, rotting leaves knotted between paw and tail. A pair of chilling yellow eyes burned within its hoary head, suspended above the yawning chasm of a mouth. Viciously serrated wooden spikes, making up the beast's teeth, lined its jaws. Though it was truly nothing more than an enchanted mass of forest matter, the monstrosity was utterly terrifying.

It was the biggest Timberwolf Spike had ever laid eyes upon.

The stench of the monster's breath caressed Spike's nostrils, making him gag. Advancing slowly, the Timberwolf issued a spine-chilling growl that rippled throughout its body. Every single twig and leaf groaned and creaked. It bent over low, as if making to pounce. Wooden claws scraped the earth, producing a nerve-shredding screech. Spike backed away, terrified and completely at the beast's mercy.

What do I do? What can I – a mere baby dragon – do to fight this...thing?

He glanced behind him as the Timberwolf advanced, and froze in horror. Expecting to be alone, he saw she was still feigning peril. Two large stones were 'wedged' about her right hoof, 'trapping' her in place. Spike was flabbergasted – this was no longer a joke. This was horrifyingly real. Anyhow, he would never be able to repay her for what she had done. One of them had to escape – and he was determined it would be her.

Spike backed away a few more paces, then hurried over to the mare whose hoof was still 'stuck'. Frantically, he grabbed a stone and pulled. "Applejack, this is no longer a joke – please, you have to get out of here. I am not going to have us both devoured by this monster. I'm really sorry if I bothered you, but..."

The ginger mare raised a hoof, her eyes bugging as she saw the Timberwolf looming over them. "Spike, y'all the sweetest friend I could ever have, and you needn't have to do every single thing for me. Ah'm a farmin' pony Spike – I like my work. Just being your friend is all ah could ask..."

The Timberwolf roared, blowing Applejack's hat clear of her head. Then it raised a knotted muzzle skyward and howled. The sound made both dragon and pony shudder involuntarily. Spike resumed his tugging at Applejack's stone bonds.

"Come on, you've done so much for me," the dragon blubbered, "you saved my life. You don't have to feign helplessness to make me feel like a hero. It's just that I..."

Another stomach-churning roar.

"No Spike – ah'm really stuck," Applejack stammered. "We only wanted to make y'all feel like you had repaid your debt, not that you needed to. Twilight told me how important your dragon code is – ah didn't want you feelin' disappointed. You're such a loyal friend, Spike..."

Two large, hoary paws slammed down only three feet away. Spike and Applejack looked up and saw a widening maw right above them.

"...this is not the time. Please, just get out of here Spike." Applejack tugged futilely at her hoof, but it would not budge. "Go, just go."

Unexpectedly, Spike felt a strange sensation grow in his chest. A burning clarity – heartening warmth that suddenly made him feel very brave. This rush of emotion surged through; something he'd never felt before. He suddenly felt like a knight in shining armour. Where this was coming from he could not tell. All he knew was that either he would free Applejack or the Timberwolf would have them both.

He would never abandon a friend; especially after all she had done for him.

"Never – I'll never leave you," Spike said, surprising himself with his boldness. "We both escape or not at all. I could never be happy knowing I'd abandoned you." He gallantly yanked at a rock and moved it an inch.

Applejack was momentarily frozen, her heart touched by Spike's display of loyalty. Somewhere deep inside, a little spark flickered to life. "Ah, ah..." she was too stunned for words. "...ah think that will fulfill your code."

"All that matters is getting you out of here," Spike huffed, finally shifting the stone. Breathing heavily, the baby dragon helped the apple mare up.

For a split-second he was entranced by her emerald-green eyes – he'd never noticed how pretty she really was...

With a tremendous thump, the Timberwolf's front paws thundered down right before them. Spike yelped and flung his arms out, as if making to shield Applejack from view. Like such a feeble act of bravado and chivalry would do any good. The baby dragon frantically looked about himself and an idea came to him. Still shielding Applejack, he picked up a stone.

"You want a snack?" he bellowed, trying to sound defiant. "How about this..." Using all the strength he could muster, Spike lobbed the stone at the Timberwolf. It spun through the air and tumbled down the monster's throat. Instantly the creature paused, growling softly; then the entire thing began to shudder, as if blown by the wind. Twigs and branches fell from it body.

Spike scooped up Applejack's wide-brimmed hat as the huge Timberwolf rocked violently, as if it were choking on the stone. Handing it back to her, the two friends ran as fast as they could. The Timberwolf was rasping now, sitting on its haunches as it scratched at its throat. Then it gave a bizarre little squeak, and promptly collapsed. Leaves, branches, bark and twigs clattered to the ground; all that remained of the horrendous beast.

Finally, after they had been running for some time, Spike and Applejack stopped amidst a thick stand of trees. Both were breathing heavily, shaken by the close encounter. Once more Spike couldn't help but gaze at Applejack. He supposed it was something to do with that hat and her farmpony demeanour. But now he saw a different mare. Spike felt like a fool, gawking as he was... but it was undeniable. Applejack's flowing mane and cute freckly face –

She turned and caught him looking. Spike flushed an extraordinary shade of crimson and shuffled his feet awkwardly. Feigning a cough, he embarrassedly turned away while she replaced her hat. The farmpony had returned, but now he saw her in a whole new way. It was something like the sensation he experienced when Rarity walked by, but different also. What he now felt he could not put his finger on. Her honesty and bravery affected him somehow.

Get a hold of yourself Spike...you're good friends – that's all.

"Thankyou Spike," Applejack whispered, as if embarrassed. "Thank you for savin' my life – ah, uh..." She was momentarily unable to finish her sentence. "...ah think we can consider your debt paid, Spike. You've fulfilled your dragon's code." She breathed in. "There's just one thing, though." She gave him a profoundly meaningful look.

"What's that?" he said, suddenly feeling nervous.

"We needn't repay each other's deeds in the future. We're good friends and friends do things for each other – y'all understand? That's all I could ask of you Spike. Ah just want y'all to be my friend. And believe me when ah say this," she paused. "You're a very important friend to me."

"Oh", said he, grasping for words, "I understand. You're the best of friends a dragon could have Applejack. I..." He stopped himself before he put his foot in it.

She raised a hoof to his mouth, as if to shush him. "Ah know, Spike – you're a most honourable friend and ah treasure that. What you did back there, it came from the heart."

She glanced at him in a knowing way. "Y'all know what they say: it's not so much the deed as the intention behind it which counts. Thank you – thank you for all you've done Spike."

Get a grip Spike. Applejack is just grateful for what you did. She treasures you as a friend – nothing more.

He sighed and smiled. "I wouldn't have had it any other way, Applejack. I couldn't abandon a friend." He proffered a hand. "Even?"

Applejack smiled at him, a warm, comforting smile. In a moment of insanity Spike felt like he would melt. Her smile was really quite radiant. "Even," she said. She held out a hoof and they shook.

And for that moment, as Spike gazed into Applejack's emerald eyes, all felt right in the world.

Then it happened, as it had each time before. The sky went dark and everything around was enveloped in shadow. Spike turned to find Applejack had vanished and he was now alone...so alone. A chill wind blew at him and rustled the trees, making them creak menacingly. Day had turned to night; a silver moon shone in the patchwork sky. And the howling began.

At first it was low and infrequent. Then it grew and grew until the sound was all about him. It penetrated his heart and made him shiver. The howling became more insistent – faster, increasingly frantic. Spike spun but could not see where it was coming from. The world dissolved and he was suddenly standing in a desolate plain. Turning once more, Spike found himself staring into the faces of three huge Timberwolves.

Abruptly he felt himself running. The beastly creatures gave chase, creaking and roaring as they came. Howls pierced the night, wrenching at his heart, which thumped loudly at his ribs. His breathing ragged, Spike continued on for a little way before he collapsed, giving up the chase. The massive creatures bore down upon him and...

...they abruptly vanished. Spike looked from left to right and right to left, but they had gone: simply evaporated as they had come. But then the familiar creeping sensation caught hold, causing Spike to tremble in fright. His world revolved again and he once more saw the most terrifying vision of all: a horrible apparition, taking form as a cloud of swirling darkness. Transfixed, Spike remained rooted to the spot as the vortex towered over him. A pair of scarlet eyes, chillingly lacking pupils, appeared within it.

Then the voice spoke to him.

'Spike..." it whispered in an entrancing, horrifying tone. "Spike..." The voice seemed to echo fathomlessly, reverberating around the endless desolation.

"So alone, so alone. You know what you fear, Spike. I see your heart – all that you are, and all that you will become. Least loved, by the mare you so adore. You'll never, never have what she has – what your friends have. Embrace me, Spike – embrace the darkness. I see your fears and I see you for what you truly are... and you are mine!"

A horrible, spine-tingling laughter followed; mirthless and utterly devoid of any love and kindness.

"No," Spike managed to squeak feebly. "No – NO!" He was shouting now as the shadowy vortex descended upon him. "I'll never, ever be yours. You're not me!"

"Oh, but I am Spike; I always have been. Don't lie to yourself, brave dragon, you know it to be true." The voice seemed to be mocking him now. "I am your past, present and future. You're the chosen one Spike. You will rebirth the dark. You cannot escape it. Come to me and embrace your fear. You'll be more powerful than you could ever dream. Accept the darkness Spike, give in to your fears. Then you will be free. Forget these friends; we belong as one. Forget your weakness – this love..."

The last word bounced back at Spike, hitting him repeatedly in a dreadful drone. It rang in his ears and he fell to his knees.

"No, this is not me," he yelled. "This is not who I am. It never will be." Spike pressed his hands to his ears, trying to block out the awful thrumming.

"Together, we shall wield greater power than any in Equestria. Give this up Spike, give up the light. Concede your heart, your friends. Accept the power you are destined for. You will be immortalised in darkness – forever, ever – ever..."

This, too, echoed terribly within Spike's very mind. It was inside him, all around him. But this was not him! "Never, I'll never be yours – I could never want this." And deep down, he knew it to be true. He didn't desire power, he didn't want to rule over anypony. All he wanted was to have loving friends and to love them in return. This darkness was not him, but a twisted version of his darkest fears.

Only he could fight it.

Crying out in anguish, Spike felt himself falling. The darkness rushed in and swallowed him whole. He could see nothing as he fell, enswathed by inky shadow. But the voice still reverberated incoherently, indelibly remaining inside his head. He wrestled with it, trying to rid himself of its tainted whispers. Crying out once more, looking forth to the heavens, Spike felt his tiny dragon body falling, falling, falling...

Ӂ

...AND hitting his bed with a dreadful thump. Instantly Spike sat up and with a kuh-rack, knocked his head upon the wall. Dazed and confused, the baby dragon looked about himself. He was in his own basket, swaddled under his own patchwork quilt. Most importantly, he was still inside the Castle of Friendship. He had just woken up – it had all been another horrible dream.

Yet another unsettling vision since their last adventure.

Looking around Spike saw Twilight Sparkle was still dozing fitfully in her four-poster bed. Every now and then she murmured something and rolled over. He glanced about and saw the room as it always had been; warm and inviting, glistening crystal juxtaposed with fluffy cushions and plush curtains. A beguiling ray of moonlight peaked in through a stained glass window. Spike sighed and breathed in heavily, still trembling.

Yes, just another unpleasant dream. As have been all the others. All is right with the world.

A sudden desire for something warm struck Spike, so he slid his quilt aside and hopped from his basket. The baby dragon picked up a candle stick and carefully lit it with his fiery green breath. Then, tiptoeing carefully, not wanting to rouse Twilight from slumber, he slipped out of the room. Maybe a hot beverage – hot chocolate – would cheer him up and help him make sense of this peculiar phenomenon.

Holding the candle aloft, Spike padded down the crystalline corridor, passing by more moon-struck windows. He came to the grand staircase and slowly navigated his way to the bottom floor. Glancing around, Spike headed in the direction of Twilight's sizeable kitchen. But as he passed an open doorway, he paused. He peeked into the cavernous chamber and saw rows and rows of books.

A desk sat in the epicentre of the huge space, quills, ink and books spread across it. He knew instantly, even at night, that this was the library. Twilight did, after all, spend much time in here.

Something seemed to have made Spike stop at the doorway. It was as if answers were beckoning to him from within that repository of knowledge. Eons of history were protected by the library's hallowed walls, calling to the inquisitive student. Although he normally spent his time writing manifests for Twilight's study, Spike felt there was some personal knowledge he needed to find. If anywhere could begin to resolve his nightmarish dreams, it would be here.

Curiosity piqued, Spike tiptoed into the chamber.

A huge leather-bound book lay at rest atop the desk when Spike entered the Grand Library. Setting down his candle, the dragon lit a brass lamp and walked over to it. The tome had been placed aside, clearly of significance to Twilight's work. Embossed in a golden finish, laced with fine calligraphy, the book's cover bore the title,

THE ANNALS OF EQUESTRIA
A Chronology of Our Miraculous World

Spike recalled that Twilight had, just days ago, been bidden by Princess Celestia to delve into the complex web of history, mythology and lore that made up Equestria's intricate past. Although the dragon was unable to recount the exact details, the princess had mentioned something to do with her sister Luna.

Or, more precisely, Princess Luna's recurrent dreams, which had frequently involved not just the Crystal Empire, but also the Crystal Heart. Not to mention the ominous presence of King Sombra, its past and supposedly fallen despotic emperor. Spike shuddered, remembering his near-death encounters with both the heart and Sombra.

Somehow, thoughts gnawing at his mind, he guessed that adventure had not been the last.

'Spike the Brave and Glorious' was yet to see the day whence his title should be fulfilled.

Temporarily delaying his personal endeavour for a warming mug of hot chocolate – following his disturbing dream populated by Timberwolves – Spike opened the heavy volume and found its contents page. Twilight must have recently ordered this edition, fresh from the printing works in Canterlot, he supposed, for the date on the left-hand page was only the month before.

Not to mention the history's culmination in the "Changeling Resurgence and Redemption" of the previous year. Thinking of Thorax – of that defining moment –, now king of the newly reformed race, Spike smiled. He had chosen a friend well. Twilight had been proud, was thus now.

Even so, dark thoughts continually caressed the shadowed edges of his mind. They had not seen the last of Chrysalis, he guessed that well enough. And for the past few weeks that strange shadow, an ominous and fathomless presence, had lurked about him; inside him. It was if it had become a part of his body and soul, and he could not get rid of it. The others wouldn't understand, but he must know. He would find out.

Maybe he could begin finding answers in here. Almost dreamlike, Spike turned the page and went to peruse its content.

The baby dragon grappled with the printed words and his thoughts: try as he might, he could not dispel the image of Applejack from his dream. His heart fluttered; the look on her face affected him in a way he couldn't explain.

What could this mean – this dream? Surely Equestria's chronology has seen this before...

Swallowing, he started to read:

~~~~~~~~
The History of Equestria, and the contemporary recording of its founding events and forbears, was begun – as we Equestrians know it today – in the year 1HH, of the first era. HH stating the age begun upon the creation of the Elements of Harmony and the Crystal Heart, defined as the Height of Harmony. This date also corresponds to The Fall of Eclipse and the dispelling of the spirit world.

Prior to this, and the departure of our other founding spirit, Aurora, ages were chronicled from 1PH, Prior to Harmony, back into the distant pass. Each of these ages, HH and PH, was divided into occurrences of every one-hundred years, which would become known as eras of Equestrian history. A summation of this history follows here.
~~~~~~~~
120 to 110PH – The last great alicorn kingdom of the Old World falls into decline, eventually vanishing into legend. The ancient bloodline of the original alicorn lineage is believed to have died out when the civilisation collapsed.

Contemporary Equestrian scholars suggest the kingdom was consumed by a mammoth tidal insurgence, which also enveloped many of the civilisations that existed beyond Equestria's southern borders. The rise of the South Luna Sea has made exploration here exceedingly challenging.
≈
A similar phenomenon later isolates the Southern Crystal Empire from continental Equestria.

Ѡ Events chronicled within the era spanning 110PH to 10PH are largely speculative as Equestria's greatest library of old, housing the works of our ancient record keepers, was mysteriously destroyed, and all chronicles presumably with it. Histories occurring prior to 120PH are only known through traces left behind by our Equestrian ancestors.

10PH – Eclipse harnesses the powers of the moon and casts the land into darkness.

8PH – The rise of the changelings and the splitting of Aurora and Eclipse's domains.

1PH – Aurora and eclipse meet in the legendary Battle of the Crystal Mountain. This results in both The Fall of Eclipse and the splitting of the Crystal Mountain. Thus were the gems that would become the Elements of Harmony and the Crystal Hearts created. The land was reunited and the beginnings of harmony perpetuated, its magic spread in crystal.
~~~~~~~~
0 – The reformation of the land and its naming as Equestria. Aurora departs the living world and seals the passage to the spirit realm. She leaves behind a great tome, instructing all Equestrians to rebuild their world anew.

Queen Chrysalis I, ruler of the changelings, is born.
~~~~~~~~
1HH – A quest to locate the Crystal Heart and the Elements of Harmony is begun. This endeavour results in the founding of both the Northern and Southern Crystal empires.

Galaxy and Nebula, the first of the New World alicorn lineage, uncover and unite the twin hearts and restore peace to Equestria. They become the first to wield the Elements of Harmony and to pass on their magic.

It is the power of Aurora and Eclipse that begun a new lineage of alicorn royalty. Galaxy and Nebula perpetuate the line upon their marriage, and thus a greater form of magic – the alicorns will continue to govern Equestria for over a thousand years.

Ѡ Aurora's lore stipulates revival of a new alicorn lineage to perpetuate and teach magical wisdom in our ancient Equestrian forbears. As guardians of harmony, heirs of the new alicorn bloodline earn their right to rule, bestowed and beloved by Equestria's subjects. Alicorns of old naturally assumed the hallmarks of horn and wings, with successive rulers chosen from royal families. Their contemporary descendents select successors based on merit and character, fulfilling their mantle through tests of moral fibre. As such, no New World alicorn is naturally born with their full attributes.

2HH – Chrysalis and her changelings seize control of Equestria's capital, during the absence of Galaxy and Nebula. The Crystal Heart is captured. Our Prince and Princess then return with the elements and vanquish Chrysalis, banishing her to the far north.

3HH – Restoration of the Crystal Heart, once more separated, to the Northern and Southern Crystal empires. Equestria's magic is strengthened, with Galaxy and Nebula ensuring their magic is shared unto all.

10HH – The birth of Celestia, destined to be Princess of the Sun.

The birth of Gaia, her twin sister, once destined to be Princess of Earth. Few records of her life survive. Her name is now considered little more than myth and legend.

13HH – The birth of Princess Luna, destined to be Princess of the Moon. It is not until the era of 251HH does she fall to the temptation of Nightmare Moon.

14HH – The birth of Sombra, once king of the Southern Crystal Empire. In 200HH he will conquer the Northern Crystal Empire. This dominion will collapse and descend into darkness in 250HH. Sombra does not reappear in Equestria's records until The Battle for the Crystal Empire in 1253HH.

21HH – Discord, Spirit of Disharmony and Chaos, comes to Equestria. Here he befriends Celestia, but Luna remains distant. Their friendship will last until 41HH.

Here Spike paused for a moment and considered. There were just so many things in Equestria's history he remained completely ignorant to. And this was just a summation of those dramatic events. Thus, he was already feeling uneasy. Something was at work here, but nothing so far had revealed his worries. As much as he could tell, the birth of Sombra and the coming of Discord had set in motion great and terrible events: as had the resurgence of the changelings.

As for this complex business of alicorn royalty and bloodlines...

At any rate, he was unable to recall the name of Gaia in any Equestrian lore annals. And how had she never been mentioned before? Having known Princess Celestia since he was but an egg, Spike guessed there were reasons for such an omission. After all, Luna's transformation into Nightmare Moon had been practically mythologised until Twilight's friends had redeemed her.

But why – what don't I know? And why now?

Intrigued, the baby dragon skipped a few pages ahead and began again.

~~~~~~~~
23HH – Chrysalis II, to succeed her mother, is born. It can be deduced she rules the changeling civilisation by around 261HH.

Again, Spike noticed the affinity with three events around 251 to 261 HH. Something had been set in motion during that period. Neither had it escaped his notice that, roughly one-thousand years after his defeat, Sombra had returned, which corresponded with their confrontation at the Crystal Empire. Not long before this time had Discord been subsequently resurrected and redeemed.

That's too great a coincidence – surely. It fits too well.

~~~~~~~~
41HH – Discord becomes mysteriously disenchanted and assumes rule over all Equestria. He usurps Celestia and Luna, assuming the powers of the Elements of Harmony. Following a friendship of twenty years, his dominion will last for another two eras.

Since the banishment of Chrysalis I by Galaxy and Nebula, this is the first use of the Elements of Harmony by their daughters. They are found again in the roots of The Tree of Harmony. Only upon their passing will Celestia learn of the elements' deepest magic.

Galaxy and Nebula are drawn away by a dark uprising in the unknown southern regions. At this time they bestow Equestria's rule upon their daughters, Celestia and Luna. They will remain mysteriously absent during the two-hundred years of disharmony.

51HH – Celestia and Luna construct The Castle of the Two Sisters within the Everfree Forest. For two-hundred years it will remain Canterlot's twin bastion, watching over all Equestria. Out of sight, Celestia and Luna take refuge during Discord's reign.

Unsettled, Spike forged ahead, locating the chronicles pertaining to the Second Era HH.

~~~~~~~~
200HH – Amidst chaos, Sombra lays siege to the Northern Crystal Empire and, after two months, bestows himself as supreme emperor. The Crystal Heart is spirited away, deterring all adversaries for fifty years.

A nervous gulp, some head scratching – over a page.

~~~~~~~~
241HH – Celestia and Luna depart Equestria on an errand of grave importance. They return to find Discord has sowed a blackened vine to steal Equestria's enchanted crystals. Using their combined strength and the Elements of Harmony, the princesses end Discord's reign and trap him in a skin of stone. Not until 1252HH is he freed again. Harmony is restored.

It can now be ascertained that Celestia and Luna's errand related to the discovery and recapture of Aurora's great book of lore. The revered and sacred tome now lies in the vaults of the Canterlot library. It is unknown whether or not this was a final trick of Discord.

Galaxy and Nebula return, revealing they were lured into a trap and imprisoned. They bequeath the throne to their daughters following their display of love and fortitude against overwhelming odds. Thus the second generation of alicorn royalty is begun.

This was unprecedented: how could two such powerful alicorns be deceived and trapped for two-hundred years, forced to abandon their daughters? Another mystery was added to Equestria's labyrinthine past.

Something is deep at work.

~~~~~~~~
242HH – The mysterious fall and abandonment of the Southern Crystal Empire. Never has it been reclaimed, both the magic of the Crystal Heart of Darkness, and its lore, fading into history. Little memory of its chronology has surfaced since.

250HH – Following the vanquishing of the Southern Crystal Empire, Celestia and Luna are forced to attack its northern twin. After a pitched battle, Sombra is overthrown and exiled to the polar regions. But an unprecedented spell of shadow consumes the empire three years later. The Crystal Heart of Light is never found. Their battle is known as The Fall of the Crystal Empire.

The empire's histories, missed by Equestrian record keepers during the thousand-year imprisonment, allude to this period as "The Great Shadow". The Crystal Heart presumably remains shrouded by Sombra's curse. We should note that Sombra's enchantment only took effect three years after his banishment.

251HH – Princess Luna is encapsulated by the lure of Nightmare Moon. Briefly assuming rule over Equestria, she is imprisoned in the moon by her sister Princess Celestia, who is forced to take responsibility for all the Elements of Harmony. After nearly one-thousand years, she is freed by an ancient prophecy and redeemed by The Mane Six.

During this age, Celestia will summon powers to raise both sun and moon.

Celestia's confrontation with Nightmare Moon results in the destruction of The Castle of the Two Sisters. Having stood for two eras, it will remain in ruin as testament to the destructive forces of power wielded without love. The future throne of Equestria is transferred to Canterlot.

Spike skipped ahead once more. Concerning the previous four records, a heightened sense of dread had gripped him. Discord had seen defeat, only for the Southern Crystal Empire to crumble a year later.

Sombra conquers the Northern Empire, is conquered himself, then both he and it vanish.

Again, a year later, Luna was entranced by Nightmare Moon.

Certainly, something here did not add up – but what? A single piece of the puzzle yet eluded recognition. And, he thought, had remained out of sight for a very long time.

When would it appear?

He was now amidst the more recent histories.

~~~~~~~~
509HH – Lord Tirek is first freed from his bonds in Tartarus following a strange series of earthquakes. At this time The Elements of Harmony are restored to the Crystal Tree. Despite Luna's fall, he is thwarted by Celestia's use of an enchanted casket that grows from the tree's roots. This will occur once more when the renewed elements pass unto The Mane Six.

510HH – The Uprising of Griffin-Stone. A civil dispute splits the griffin kingdom in two. The unexpected conflict is eventually resolved by Equestrian ambassadors out of Canterlot.

Breathless now, almost hanging on every word.

His hunch might not be so far-fetched!

~~~~~~~~
752HH – The passing of Queen Chrysalis I. Her last command is that the changeling hive pass on to her only heir and daughter, Chrysalis II. It is this Chrysalis who will attempt once more to conquer Equestria.

753HH – Lord Draco Rex, emperor of all dragons, takes kingship in Equestria's west. Raising a legion of dragons he proceeds to instigate the Equestrian Civil War. The conflict lasts for three years before Draco is cast down beneath the land, enchanted to slumber for five-hundred years. All dragons retreat back into the west.

Another few pages were briskly passed over. Spike began again.

~~~~~~~~
888HH – The Battle of Everfree. Dark and powerful objects known as The Seeds of Destruction are uncovered in the great forests of south-western Equestria. They are seized by an unknown entity and used to create an army of enchanted beasts. A growth of blackened roots surges forth and ensnares the land; the forests decay. But the might of the Elements of Harmony prevail and the seeds are cast into the heart of the forest. They are sealed within an enchanted oak tree, their powers forever petrified.

Following the liberation of the forests, they are bestowed the title of Ever Free.

894HH – The ascension and passing of Galaxy and Nebula. Celestia regretfully assumes sole sovereignty of Canterlot's royal throne; preserving her wisdom, to do as she must. They also leave her with intimate knowledge of the Elements of Harmony, whence Nightmare Moon should return. The alicorn line remains unbroken.

Pausing, Spike considered. Upon the death of Queen Chrysalis I, the Equestrian Civil War had swiftly followed; another pair of inconspicuously linked events. Soon after, the Everfree Forest had played host to a decisive and deadly conflict. This left Spike at even greater unease. Something must, he thought, be irrevocably moving towards a finale.

But he pushed his ruminations aside and continued, skimming more pages.

~~~~~~~~
1227HH – The birth of Mi Amore Cadenza, destined to be Princess of Love. She will be recognised as rightful sovereign of the Crystal Empire in 1245HH. Also will she become an heir to the New World alicorn lineage.

The power of the Crystal Heart is bestowed to Cadence when her Cutie Mark, a crystal heart, embodies itself. The heart will continue to impose strength, love, goodwill and peace unto all Equestria. Not until The Battle for the Crystal Empire in 1253HH will she finally claim her birthright and its magic be made whole again.

During this time it can be ascertained that the heart's magical abilities pass from one destined bearer to the next. Its absence from Equestria until 1253HH certifies that Aurora intended its powers to embody the living spirit of our world. Upon its rediscovery, bestowed to its latest heir, magic was renewed and darkness temporarily held at bay. To this day it shields all of Equestria, empowered by our belief.

It should be noted that Sombra was destroyed by its magic, unable to withstand the power of love within the Crystal Empire.

1228HH – The birth of Shining Armour, brother to Twilight Sparkle. He will wed Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and rule by her side as prince in a restored Crystal Empire. As Captain of the Guard in Canterlot, his magic provides powerful protection for Equestria.

1233HH – The birth of Twilight Sparkle, student of Princess Celestia. She is destined to become the Princess of Friendship. She is also the destined bearer of the Element of Magic and a future heir to the New World alicorn lineage.

Following the redemption of Nightmare Moon in 1251HH, Twilight and her friends, The Mane Six, resurrect the Elements of Harmony, each becoming the new bearer of their respective element. The magic endures, as foretold in Aurora's book of lore. Interestingly, the exact details of this achievement, and the reclamation of the Crystal Heart, were not detailed.

1251HH – Nightmare Moon returns after one-thousand years trapped in the sky. Her sister Celestia is kidnapped in a machination designed to break the New World alicorn line. She attempts to coerce The Main Six into darkness. All of them endure her spells and restore the Elements of Harmony, resurrecting Princess Luna once more.

It is here that the passing of the elements is discovered. The Mane Six become their true bearers, inheriting and earning this role from Princess Celestia. They are the true incarnation of the elements.

Trixie Lulamoon first comes to Ponyville. She is overcome by Twilight Sparkle's magic, but chooses to leave Ponyville rather than resolve their differences.

1252HH – Discord is unwittingly freed from his stone prison. The spirit of disharmony and chaos wreaks havoc across Equestria and almost succeeds in separating Twilight and her friends. He enchants and conceals the Elements of Harmony. But through their ingenuity and deepest friendship, The Mane Six overcome Discord and imprison him once more.

Queen Chrysalis II returns to Equestria. She assumes the form of Princess Cadence, intending to wed her groom Shining Armour. This would have shattered his magic, thus leaving Canterlot defenceless against the changeling hordes. Twilight Sparkle sees through the ruse, but faces many challenges before she is able to reveal Chrysalis' scheme. The combined magic of Cadence and Shining Armour exiles Chrysalis from Equestria.

1253HH – The Battle for the Crystal Empire. King Sombra rises again and attempts to retake dominion over his former kingdom. He creates a series of traps to lure Twilight Sparkle to her demise. But the dragon Spike saves her and eventually aids Cadence in restoring the Crystal Heart. Sombra is apparently destroyed by its powers.

Records remain vague and speculative, but it is believed Sombra spends three years in exile before reattempting his conquest of the Crystal Empire. Scholars suggest this posited a need for both the royal lineage and the line of the Crystal Heart to be re-established and restored.

Trixie Lulamoon obtains the dark Alicorn Amulet, which bestows unnatural prowess with black magic. With the help of the alchemist Zecora, Twilight and her friends convince Trixie to relinquish its power.

Fluttershy, the Element of Kindness, is instrumental in the redemption of Discord. He vows to Princess Celestia that he will use his powers mostly for good.

Twilight Sparkle resolves the final spell of Stir-Swirl the Bearded and gains greater understanding of her own and her friends' elemental magic. She ascends to her place as Princess of Friendship and becomes an alicorn.

Spike couldn't help but feel a sense of pride here, as he had been instrumental in saving the Crystal Heart and had thus gained the title "Spike the Brave and Glorious". Although, admittedly, he was somewhat embarrassed by it, all the crystal ponies revered him for that role. And still something flickered in the recesses of his mind.

This simply fit all too well. Why now he noticed, he could not guess.

~~~~~~~~
1254HH – The enchanted vines originally sown by Discord remerge and enswathe the Tree of Harmony. Aided by Zecora, Twilight Sparkle realises the time has come for The Elements of Harmony to be restored within its roots. As when Celestia and Luna first drew them forth, the elements and the tree's magic are revived. Feeling great remorse, Discord admits this to be his past deed.

It is discovered the elements, born from the Crystal Tree, and thus intrinsic to Equestrian magic, must be returned there – at periods throughout Equestria's history –, or else harmony shall fade. The Mane Six continue to represent the magic of their elements, combined in friendship.

Lord Tirek mysteriously escapes from imprisonment in Tartarus once more, seeking to obtain all Equestrian magic. He coerces Discord into betraying his friends and nearly conquers the land. Twilight Sparkle absorbs the magic of all four princesses, and eventually overcomes Tirek when she and her friends unlock an enchanted chest, to which Discord's friendship was the key. Tirek is imprisoned again and Twilight earns her Castle of Friendship in Ponyville.

1255HH – The emergence and first use of The Cutie Map. Following the restoration of the elements to the Tree of Harmony, The Mane Six continue to resolve friendship issues across Equestria.

Starlight Glimmer attempts to rewrite the history of Equestria using a spell created by Star-Swirl the Bearded. She is later redeemed and aids in the defeat of Chrysalis and the changeling reformation.

Early on, Starlight used a strange and particularly strong form of spell to steal away other ponies' Cutie Marks. It remains unknown as to how she learned such a sinister form of magic. Had her hold continued to grow without opposition, she may have forever altered the magical ability of ponies across Equestria.

1256HH – The birth of Flurry Heart, daughter to Mi Amore Cadenza and Shining Armour. She is Equestria's first naturally born alicorn since the Old World lineage. Her magic shatters the Crystal Heart, but the talisman is restored with the aid of Starlight Glimmer and her old friend Sunburst. This great incantation is known as The Crystalling.

Flurry Heart will also become an heir to the royal lineage of New World alicorns.

The redemption of the changelings and the flight of Chrysalis II. Starlight Glimmer, Trixie Lulamoon, Discord and the changeling Thorax stand united to overcome her scheme for domination. Thorax, a friend unto all Equestria, transcends into a new, benevolent form, with all other changelings. He will assume rule over the reformed changeling civilisation.

...

Here the principal histories concluded. Spike sat for a moment, pondering what he had just read. He couldn't honestly say why he had even been drawn to open the book. Something just wasn't right. That something hadn't been right since Starlight and her friends had defeated Chrysalis.

But why now – what could his dreams mean?

He was only a baby dragon, but he suddenly felt like a thousand years of history was weighing heavily upon his shoulders. This was to be his responsibility, to discover and confront this growing sense of shadow. Spike suddenly felt a prickling sensation at his neck, as if someone or something was watching him.

Making to turn, Spike felt a gentle tap on his shoulder. He exhaled sharply, jumping like a jack-in-the-box. He whipped about, his heart in his mouth, and saw Twilight standing behind him, her eyes baggy with sleep. Spike's face crumpled into an embarrassed grin. Looking sheepish, the baby dragon used a ribbon to mark his place and closed the book softly. Twilight drew breath as he did so, making to speak.

"Oh, Twilight," he stammered, "you gave me a scare! As you see I'm a little jumpy – apprehensive of late." Spike rubbed his spikes in an apologetic sort of way. "I'm sorry for waking you and all – I've just been having those, uh, dreams again. They keep coming back."

"I know all about those dreams, Spike," Twilight replied gently, "you tend to talk in your sleep. Not to mention the occasional tossing and turning and crying out." The purple alicorn squinted at him, as if examining the dragon for some tick or twitch. "You've only begun doing this since that ordeal with the changelings."

She said this in a way which implied deepest concern.

"I feel, uh, strange – not myself," Spike admitted, making to sit on a stool by the reading desk. "Indeed, it has only occurred since Thorax and the others defeated Chrysalis. I just can't understand why. These dreams are unnatural, almost real. And every time I have them, the Timberwolves show up. Every time." He fidgeted nervously, wondering whether he should mention Applejack.

A little voice in his ear decided against it.

"Strange, dark things", he mumbled. Breathing in, then exhaling deeply. "In these dreams I feel alone, so alone. Like you've all gone away. Or worse – I've lost you all!"

Twilight's eyes widened like saucers. Clearly, something was causing Spike great trouble. Her next words were chosen carefully, in a soothing tone:

"Well, I might not be able to divine your dreams, Spike – but I can help you deal with them. That's what friends are for, after all. We'll get you through this Spike – you never have to be alone. You have many wonderful friends who love you." She stopped, then added, "I'll never stop loving you, Spike."

Spike looked at her with watery eyes. She passed him a handkerchief and he wiped the tears away. "I love you too." He sobbed a little; blew his nose. "I just don't understand. Why me, why now?"

"Life will present its challenges, Spike. Maybe this will be your moment to shine – not that you haven't already done that. Many of us are destined for things far greater than we expect."

"What sort of greatness?" Spike whispered, looking somewhat confused.

"Well, I actually became the Princess of Friendship – something I couldn't have achieved without you. Look at Fluttershy, converting Discord like that. Rainbow Dash, the Wonder Bolts – everyone has their own time, Spike. You just have to wait and see..."

She let the sentence hang for a moment.

Spike sniffed into the handkerchief. "You really think so?"

"I know so – listen to your heart Spike." Twilight patted his head affectionately, then added, "and you didn't wake me. I couldn't sleep either. How about a warming mug of hot chocolate to hearten your soul?"

Spike's eye's gleamed. "That's just what I was after. And maybe a gem or two..." His voice trailed off, thinking hungrily of their well-stocked pantry. "I mean, that would be great – thanks, Twilight."

He abruptly sneezed into the handkerchief. "Oh, pardon me."

Twilight grinned at him in that sisterly sort of way he liked. "No problem Spike – you are my most loyal assistant. Besides, you're like a brother to me. We've been through many trials together: I want to be there for you." She glanced at the elaborate clock above the desk, only feigning sternness. "One mug of hot chocolate then back upstairs; it's way past your bedtime."

"Okay," Spike whispered, giving Twilight a hug around her front legs. He stayed there for a moment, sighing in contentment, before Twilight nudged him coaxingly and he released her. "You're the best sister a dragon could have."

Just as the two turned for the kitchen, a third voice echoed from the staircase. "I could use one of those hot chocolates please. Spike hasn't been the only one having strange dreams." Starlight Glimmer, her mane tousled, a nightcap askew, approached them. "I heard you two talking down here."

"Yes, poor Spike has been having those bad dreams again," Twilight said. "He was down here reading through my history books." The alicorn flipped him a quizzical expression. "I thought a morale booster was in order. Please join us Starlight – the more the merrier."

An awkward pause. "Are you feeling alright?"

"Yes, fine – fine, "Starlight shrugged in a breezy sort of manner. "Just somewhat shaken by that near disaster..." Another, pregnant pause as she trailed off, no doubt recalling painful memories from times before Twilight's friendship.

Both alicorn and dragon seemed to guess what was going through her mind, because they each clasped her in a hug. "You've achieved so much, Starlight," Twilight whispered. "I'm proud to count you as our friend. I – we will always be here for you."

"And..." Spike said, hopping on the spot, "there's still a hot mug of chocolate with your name on it." He smiled and patted a claw on her hoof.

Starlight couldn't help but feel her mouth twitch at this. "If you insist," she cooed. "But be warned – I love pink marshmallows best of all."

"Ah, no way," Spike joked. "They're my favourite too."

"Then first there gets all the pink marshmallows," Twilight said.

On a whim, Spike made to speak, but stopped himself. He felt foolish admitting his true compulsion for plumbing Equestria's chronology. They're only dreams – just dreams... Right now, he only wanted to banish night's troubles beyond the castle walls. And, he astutely guessed, Starlight was already troubled enough without listening to his childish woes.

This was a special moment to enjoy with two loving friends.

Thus the threesome trouped into the kitchen. Contrary to their joking, the pink marshmallows were divided equally. So they sat together, laughing and talking; delightedly slurping hot chocolate. In its own special way, the moment became a microcosm of joy. For just that one, magical time all the troubles of the world were at bay.

Talk of strange dreams could wait until morning.

Ӂ

STARLIGHT Glimmer raised her head blearily from the well-stuffed pillow. The nightcap had come down over her eyes and her quilt was half-twisted into a knot. In fact, much of the bed's covers had tumbled from the mattress to the floor.

Another dream, just like Spike's – this can't be good.

Sighing inwardly, Starlight made to get up, instead rolling face-first onto the floor. Groaning somewhat, the lilac unicorn raised herself and used her horn to levitate the bedcovers back into place. After it was all straight and orderly again, she plumped her pillow and wended her way towards the kitchen.

Voices emanated from the room, Starlight able to discern Twilight speaking animatedly. Delicious smells wafted to her nose and made her realise how hungry she really was. Gorgeous, rich smells; like pancakes, maple syrup and buttered toast.

A little breakfast would certainly help. Eager to see her friends, Starlight stuck her head around the door jamb.

Twilight stood at the stove, pouring pancake batter into a skillet with her horn's magic. A platter hovered by her side, already stacked with several golden-brown pancakes. The tantalising scent of melting mutter invaded Starlight's nostrils. She couldn't help it; her stomach issued a rumbling gurgle.

Twilight looked up and saw Starlight standing at the doorway. She smiled and beckoned her friend to sit down by the breakfast table.

"You're just in time Starlight; I'm making your favourite – buttermilk pancakes. Please, take a seat. There's a choice of strawberries, blueberries, banana, maple syrup, golden syrup and... Well, anything that complements a pancake." She gave her a sympathetic look, whence a flying pancake clobbered her in the face.

The alicorn giggled sheepishly and levitated the offending article onto the platter.

As Starlight sat down, with Twilight laying out plates for the pancakes, she noticed that Spike was already occupied with his own breakfast. The baby dragon was enthusiastically attacking the provender, munching away on a bowl of muesli.

"You're hungry," she said, amused by such a ravenous appetite.

Preoccupied with his muesli, Spike's head shot up, his mouth full of oats and dried fruit. At first he managed a muffled "mph", before swallowing his mouthful.

"Yeah, I'm really hungry", he admitted. "Can't think why I should be – but this really hits the spot. How are you feeling now Starlight?" He, too, looked sympathetic, concerned.

Fumbling for the right words, Starlight was saved by Twilight placing a steaming plate stacked with two pancakes before her. Spike's eyes glistened at the sight of the pancakes. He hopped up, placed his spent muesli bowl in the sink, then hurried back to start his next course. Alicorn and unicorn chuckled at this, before tucking into their own breakfasts.

Twilight cast a look askance at Starlight. Worry appeared to crease her face. "You look tired. It was another dream, wasn't it – the same dream. You've been experiencing just the ordeal Spike has. I don't know what it means or why, but you need to tell me, Starlight. I'm not going to sit idle while my friends live in fear."

Her face was calm, but deadly serious.

Starlight sighed and placed her fork down.

"Yes, Twilight, I've been having more dreams. Like Spike's, they started after Chrysalis was defeated. I just don't know why. I feel like I'm missing something, but there's no way to find out. Simply put, I'm lost; I have no idea where to turn. I've never experienced anything like this before." She sniffled, unable to withhold a traitorous tear trickling down her cheek. "Are Spike and I going mad?"

Twilight felt stricken to see her friend in such a state. Tenderly, she placed a hoof around her and spoke gently. "No, Starlight, this means something – and we're going to find out what. Like I told Spike, you don't have to be alone. You have good friends, loyal friends. You've proved yourself time and again, Starlight. Never give up."

Her voice cracked.

Spike stared in alarm at seeing his sister pony and her friend in such distress. The dragon valorously tossed his fork aside and, all over syrup, skipped to their side of the table. Acting the gentlecolt, he produced a chequered handkerchief and patted each on the flank.

"There, there," said he, unsure exactly how the situation should be handled. "I have you two and that's enough for me. Being loved by two ponies like you is enough to face my problems. Believe me when I say, though I'm just a baby, I know what it's like to doubt yourself."

He gave a reluctant grin, thinking of Rarity.

Starlight conjured a watery smile and gratefully partook of Spike's handkerchief. She blew her nose and whispered, "Thankyou Spike – that was really, well, rather mature. Hearing somepony say that makes me feel better. Thank you for staying by me."

"I wouldn't have it any other way," Spike said truthfully, thinking of Applejack.

"You're truly a diamond in the rough Spike," Twilight said. "You're always there when a friend needs you. I think Princess Celestia knew what she was doing when she paired you and me together. She knew there was potential in that dragon's egg – I know it."

The baby dragon was deeply affected by Twilight's brutal honesty, and, he had to admit, rather proud. He liked making his friends proud. He cared for them most of all.

As he deigned to reply, Spike hiccupped, coughed, then promptly regurgitated a rolled parchment scroll. The green fire dissipating, the scroll unrolled itself and Twilight was able to read it.

Dear Twilight Sparkle,

I thank you warmly for all that you and your friends have done. I am most proud to call you my student. Thus I would like to extend my gratitude still further with regard to the celebration you have been organising. I am most touched by your thoughtfulness, and I am impressed with how you and your friends have handled recent events. I cannot thank you enough. Please be aware I have tried to ease your labours by acquiring the assistance of Fancy Pants to host the gathering. Tomorrow, make sure you and all your friends enjoy yourselves after everything that has passed. Know that my thoughts go with you –

Princess Celestia.

Twilight scanned the scroll again, using her magic to roll it up and out of sight.

"Goodness me, I almost forgot." She slapped a hoof to her forehead. "Its tomorrow. I'm terribly sorry Starlight – Spike, I have to run. I promised I'd assist Rarity with decorating." She frantically swallowed some pancakes, then pushed away from the table. "I'm really sorry. Look after yourselves today."

Twilight was about to leave when Spike called out. "We will, Twilight. Don't worry about a thing – we understand the responsibilities you have. Please go – we'll take care of things here." He smiled. "You can rely on us."

"We're here for you too," Starlight said. "Nopony has to shoulder their troubles alone; even a princess of friendship." Fixing her with a look of deepest sincerity. "We love you."
The purple alicorn felt her heart swell with pride and affection. "I know." Hurriedly averting her watery eyes, Twilight galloped from the room.

Starlight and Spike sat together for a little while longer, finishing their pancakes. When Starlight had swallowed the last portion of pancake, Spike offered to clean up and wash the dishes. Without waiting for an answer, he picked up a stack of plates and hobbled to the sink. He turned on the tap and let the sink fill, adding soap. Starlight raised herself and trotted over to the baby dragon, who was now in the thick of washing.

"Princess Celestia's birthday celebration," she mused. "Goodness, she must be at-least a thousand years old. Tomorrow must seem like no time at all."

"I don't know," Spike replied. "Responsibilities and time's passage must weigh heavily on a princess's shoulders. Through thick and thin she's preserved harmony and love in all Equestria. That's not an easy task."

"Don't I know it," Starlight groaned. "After those unspeakable acts I committed..."

Spike turned and gave her a serious look. "Hey, don't beat yourself up over that Starlight. You chose friendship over revenge in the end. You chose to be a better pony. That makes all the difference in the world. Your choices make you who you are – you have to believe that."

Coming from somepony so young, Starlight couldn't help but feel stunned. "I, I – thankyou Spike. It has been belief like yours that keeps me going. Before – the village, I don't know how..."

She leaned down and gave him a hug.

"You know what? No matter what I dream, I'm not going to let these shadows get to me. Chrysalis can do her worst. If she ever returns, I'll be ready for her. Because I have you."

"And you always will," Spike said, hugging her back.

Starlight released him, bestowing a grateful smile, before trotting from the room. Undoubtedly to attend to her own celebratory duties. Spike sighed, still feeling the warmth of her hug, then returned to dishwashing.

Princess Celestia's birthday, he mused. The summer solstice. Another shining beacon of hope, another year gone. Equestria has endured through many trials and tribulations.

There can't be anything worse left to face...

Ӂ

SEVERAL minutes later, Spike was hard at work cleaning and dusting and being a general dogsbody. His daily chores took quite some time, but he never begrudged them. Maintaining the castle was a most important job after all.

While he cleaned, Spike thought about Applejack, of Rarity. He thought of his strange feelings towards both mares, yet in Rarity's case it was easier to explain.

What is this thing called love?

Every time he pondered that question, Spike felt like a juvenile fool. He was still only a baby. What could this be but puppy love, nothing serious? Spike tried to dust his feelings under the rug, but they wouldn't go away. His heart burned every time he thought about it, their – her smile. Every time he saw Rarity's face, her beautiful eyes.

In truth, he went to jelly just when she was around. His heart fluttered, he felt light as a feather. But no, I am being foolish. This is not serious – just a phase, a phase.

But a little voice seemed to whisper into his ear, telling him otherwise.

And what of Applejack? She's a friend, just a friend – then why do I feel this way?

It was then that one of Twilight's sayings floated into his head; follow your heart, Spike.

The baby dragon sighed and resumed his dusting of the grand staircase. This thing called love was too big for him to comprehend. Maybe in time – maybe once he understood his strange dreams. Whistling to himself, Spike struck up a little song as he worked. In the meantime, he knew of other ways to handle his juvenile musings. A different sort of magic, and not of the obvious kind.

One's heart was strange, unpredictable.

A full-bodied melody danced through Spike's mind. He began to tap his claws in time with an imaginary rhythm. Thinking of his friends, Spike began to sing...

Here I am, the morning chores all lined up.
Out of bed and to work keeping the castle clean.
Swallow down breakfast, do dishes and swab and shine up.
Check my list, grab a pen, it's one thing and then...

Spike picked up his sponge and bucket, heading for the bathroom. Humming happily now, he resumed his work.

I will brush my teeth, and floss with glee -
Twilight does insist this is the best for me.
Comb my scales, sit – take stock, then basically,
Just wonder when will she walk in?

The baby dragon finished scrubbing down the tiled floor, collected his things, and ran into the laundry. He began folding linen, his voice raised in cheerful verse.

Then after lunch, it's windows and floors and waxing,
Onto dusting, some folding and oh yes...
Cookery and laundry - bed-making -
Then I'll rest – I digress,
Check the time, how's the mess?

Spike glanced up at the ornate cuckoo clock in the library. Pulling forward the tall wooden ladder, he started shuffling books on the shelves. He used his foot to propel himself around the library's cavernous bookcases.

And I'll sort the books, going from here to there -
I'll alphabetize each one, I'm sure we have shelves to spare.
And then I'll scrub and scrub and scrub and scrub the stairs -
Maintaining that sparkling sheen.
And I'll keep wondering, and thinking, and sighing, and weeping...
When will she walk in?

By two o'clock Spike had completed all the chores, spurred on by his singing. Though he felt better, he was unable to dismiss his thoughts. Rarity flitted in and out of his mind. Still, he tried to feel positive. He would understand his feelings eventually. Maybe Princess Celestia's birthday celebration would be the perfect chance, at last laying bare his emotions... Spike suddenly felt hopeful.

In a dream he trotted to a stained-glass window, flung it wide and propped his elbows on the sill. Looking out over Ponyville, the sun radiant in the sky, Spike admired the beautiful view.

An overwhelming burst of passion hit him and the baby dragon raised his arms forth, singing out a final verse; his voice carried by the breeze.

Tomorrow night, she'll be out there -
My heart still aches, with this love and care.
The truth is, really, I believe that she knows.
You've grown, be bolder – see how this story goes...

Sitting there, admiring the vista, Spike felt content – peaceful.

Tomorrow might be mystery, but today is a gift...

In time, he would know what to do.

---

Author's Notes:

Spike's song, "When Will She Walk In", is a parody of "When Will My Life Begin" from Disney's Tangled. The original lyrics are by Glenn Slater.

My primary inspiration was Disney Fanatic 2364's brilliant Bride of Discord, and its sequels, Daughter of Discord and Son-in-Law of Discord. Other influences include Disney's Alice Through the Looking Glass, Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical The Phantom of the Opera and it's sequel, Love Never Dies. The DreamWorks Kung Fu Panda trilogy also provides some inspiration, mainly towards the finale.

Originally this was titled The One That Got Away. As that title has been commonly used elsewhere in fan writing, I decided upon Equestria Forever, the title that would have been given to Chapter 24, the penultimate of this story.

This chapter will be heavily revised in the next month or so, leading into a whole new imagining of the story, given how exposition heavy this is. As such, both of the songs currently included will be edited out, so as to comply with requisite guidelines.

The Birth of Harmony was released on November 7th, 2016.