> Igniting the Torch
>  by Blooming Cherries
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1: Kindling for the Flame
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was beautiful outside. The snow was falling ever so gently towards the ground, covering everything in a soft blanket of snow. There was a chill in the air, it wasn't an unbearably freezing temperature, just cold enough to remind somepony that they could still get sick if they decided to stay outside much longer than need be. This was the epitome of a perfect winter night. And Spike wouldn't have it any other way.

Spike had been watching the weather from one of the higher towers in Canterlot. From the balcony he was on, Spike got a front row seat to the weather and its elements play out a scene before him, the snow and wind entangled in an elegant dance across the skies. Moonlight was shining through an open spot in the clouds, covering Spike in silver light. Pieces of his royal regalia were shimmering in the moonlight. All of his attire; from his silver horseshoes to his moonstone tiara, were reflecting the moon's light back into the night. His dark blue fur and feathery wings felt nice under the glare of the moon. Luna had the right idea.

This was another of a series of dreams Spike has been having. For a year or two now, he had been dreaming of being one of the four current equine princesses. Though when Spike first started having these dreams, they were all silly. Each dream was filled with never-ending nonsense and had no point to it whatsoever. One dream was him as Celestia ordering the guards to fortify the castle against an attack of sentient pancakes. He was his sister Twilight in another, and in this dream Twilight was leading an army of quills in a war against the parchment separatists. And let's not forget one of his all time favorite dreams of being Cadence and forcing Rarity to fall in love with the Spike of that dream. 

Eventually though, his dreams of the princesses had become more serious, silly escapades turned into an actual job or activity one of them would actually be doing. Celestia and Luna were passing laws and signing treaties, Cadence was trying to pair Twilight with a coltfriend, and Twilight was studying with and/or for something. Spike never complained about these dreams though. They were always a pleasant experience he thought gave him more of a connection with the princesses. And this dream was a relaxing one.

He never knew how relaxing the moon could be to somepony. The radiance of the moon seemed to relax his muscles and calm his mind. Spike wondered if this was how Luna actually felt being under the moon. He would definitely ask her the next chance he had. Luna had been visiting his dreams and keeping him company for a long time now, so he wasn't worried about not being able to ask her the now important question.

Spike was shook from his thoughts as Father Winter let loose a mighty breath, the wind was blowing harder and the snow began falling ever more vigorously to the ground. The spot in the clouds that had let the moon peek through had sealed shut, tucking the moon behind the clouds. There was a storm brewing. Spike disliked many things, but if there was anything he disliked the most, it was one thing. Planned weather. Spike sighed, he knew he would have to retreat indoors soon too avoid the upcoming snowstorm. But before he would go inside, he would get one last look at the town below.

And what a town it was. The entire city of Canterlot was lit up and decorated with an assortment of different colored lights associated with the upcoming holiday. His mother, Twilight Velvet, used to take him and his sister around Canterlot all the time when they were younger and look at the displays of lights ponies would put up. It was a hassle to convince Twilight to stop studying and go with him around the city, but it was always worth it. 

Spike watched the late hour traffic below. Canterlot was so busy this close to Hearth's Warming, as are most major cities. The city was still lively this time of night, ponies quickly shuffling around one another. It was refreshing to know at least some ponies other than him were up at this hour of late, even if part of it was due to the holiday season. In the corner of Spike's eyes, he spotted a light in the distance. His focus shifted to the sign of lights lit in the distance and a grin grew on his fur covered muzzle. It was Ponyville, a little town in which him and his greatest friends lived in. 

Even if it was just a dream, this all seemed so real. Spike took a moment to look over himself. The heavy cold air blew through his starry mane and tail making the ethereal nights sway in whichever direction the wind deemed it to sway. His dark blue feathered wings lay folded against his sides partially coated in snow. The familiar mimic regalia still lay on his body, the tiara still planted atop his head in confirmation. Spike shuffled his hooves around. In his dreams walking with hooves took a while to get used to. It was getting harder to maintain his balance when walking on hooves, the difficulty increasing the less surreal the dreams had gotten. Eventually he had mastered it, but it was very inconvenient to say the least.

"A beautiful sight, is it not?" 

The sound of another pony's voice suddenly speaking behind him startled Spike, making him to let out a girlish squeal and almost causing him to jump out of his horseshoes. Spike quickly turned his head around to face the pony who had sneaked up on him. Spike's gaze met with the all too familiar teal blue eyes of Princess Luna.

"H-Hi." Spike said nervously, his face flushed with embarrassment. Nopony knew about his princess dreams, even his sister Twilight was left in the dark. The last pony he ever wanted to know was Luna. She would never let him forget about it. It was inevitable to keep this from her though, they were all dreams. "Umm, h-how are you doing, Luna?"

The Princess was standing in her usual defined posture in the doorway that separated the royal bedchamber and the balcony. A playful grin was spread across her face. She came out from under the doorway stepping onto the balcony and walked to Spike's side. "I am doing fantastic this evening. Thank you, Spike. I see you are having fun dreaming about me?" Luna mocked.

"He-he. Uh, y-yeah," Spike stammered. He looked down, using his hooves to draw his attention away from Luna. 

"It's okay, Spike. I only jest. We all have had dreams of being royalty or a princess at one point in our lives, Spike. I happen to find it to be very flattering when ponies, or a drake in your case, dream about me," Luna proclaimed. She draped a wing over Spike and pulled his body closer. "And even more so when they dream of being me."

"So, you really don't mind?" asked Spike.

Luna shook her head and nudged Spike in the shoulder with her wing. "Not at all. And to be honest for a moment, this wasn't exactly the first time I caught you dreaming about being me either," Luna added with a knowing wink. 

Spike's heart stopped and his face was once again flushed with embarrassment. Spike wanted to jump over the balcony's railing and die of embarrassment. It would prove to be a fruitless endeavor however, for he was in a dream and therefore could not actually die. Not that Luna would allow it to happen anyway. Who else would she poke and prod at for amusement? Certainly not her sister Celestia. Luna has had many a century to torment her elder sibling, the fun from it loosing its luster long ago.

Spike swallowed the lump in his throat. "Really? You saw all the other dreams?" Spike asked nervously. 

Luna nodded in response. "Indeed, I have. I had planned on blackmailing you with them on a later date. I thought about telling your friends or forcing you to service me. But in the end, I found teasing you to be much more gratifying." Luna added.

Spike rolled his eyes at Luna's remark. One of Luna's favorite things to do was tease him. She took every chance she was given to poke and prod at him. He figured a thousand or more years of experience playing with Celestia would make any pony really good at teasing. In fact, being related to Celestia was what probably made her an expert of the art. Celestia could be just as bad as, if not worse than, Luna when nopony else was around. But unlike her younger sister, Celestia had more control. 

"I'm glad you don't mind. I was sure you would find it strange. I mean me of all ponies, Twilight's somewhat egotistical dragon assistant, dreaming of being a pretty Princess."

Luna put a hoof to her chest and let out a faux gasp. If Rarity were able to see Luna in action, she would have been a very proud mare. It was truly a gasp for the ages. "You find me to be attractive?" Luna placed the back of her hoof to her forehead, feigning astonishment. Another classic Rarity move. "I never knew you carried such feelings for me, Spike." 

A giggle escaped Spike's lips at Luna's little display. If it was fun she wanted, fun Luna would get. "And how could I not? You are the fairest of them all, Princess Luna. No mare could ever hope to stand up to your alluring prowess." Spike praised, heavily emphasizing the word alluring.

A hearty laugh escaped Luna's lips as she prodded Spike in his side with her hoof, a mischievous grin strewn across her face. "And don't let my sister tell you otherwise!" exclaimed Luna.

"And what if Celestia happens to change my opinion?" Asked Spike with an impish smile. "Your sister can be such a very good persuader."

Luna put a hoof to her chin in thought. After a second or two of pondering the smug grin on Luna's muzzle grew wider and more wicked. "If Celestia does manage to sway your thoughts. I shall simply do this," Luna closed her eyes before wrapping a hoof around Spike's head and pulling it closer to her own, their muzzles meeting in a kiss. Not a romantic kiss, but a kiss none the less. Luna held the two of them together for a few seconds before releasing Spike from her grasp. 

A word escaped Spike, one that sums up that entire experience. Unexpected. It was a mix of teasing and affection, and that was what made it so unexpected. He would give a Luna nuzzle or a hug every now an then and she would return the gesture. Using the knowledge that he would let it slide and also take the opportunity to tease had made it such a ingenious strategy. A strategy that should definitely be in Cadence's book The Art of War : Friendship and Love Special Edition. A book that has had very good reviews since its release a few months ago. Spike was definitely going to grab himself a copy now. Maybe he could even get a good discount in the Crystal Empire. And an autograph. The value of that book would skyrocket.

Spike was so absorbed in his thoughts he hadn't noticed that Luna had left his side. Snapping out of his perplexed trance, Spike looked around for Luna. The search didn't take very long. Luna had only moved back to the doorway she was under earlier. 

Waving a hoof, Luna beckoned Spike to follow her inside. "Let us continue this inside, Spike. Someplace more cozy that is not out in this snowstorm."

The sound of howling winter winds once again reached Spike's ears. He had forgotten about the bad weather, tuned it and the world around him out when Luna arrived so suddenly. Spike shook off the snow that had taken up residence on his body and followed Luna inside. The heat of the room stopped Spike in his tracks. The sudden change in temperatures had caught him off guard. Spike's thoughts couldn't help but wander. How long was I out here?

After a walking few feet into the bedroom, Luna suddenly halted, prompting Spike to stop behind the mare less he run straight into her flank. Not entirely a bad thing mind you, but one to avoid none the less. Spike was starting to worry about his friend. Why did she stop moving so suddenly? Spike was prepared to voice his concern, but was cutoff by Luna. "This is what you think my quarters are like?" Luna questioned, Her voice sounded completely confused as she looked around at Spike's interpretation of her room. 

The room itself was black from wall to wall. Various decorations were mounted on the walls; pictures of Luna and Celestia, moon themed trinkets, and a large silver bordered vanity mirror. A large bed sitting on a silver frame with Luna's cutiemark embedded on all the pillows and blankets lay against the western most wall. In the center of the room stood a pedestal with many a variety of gems slotted into it. The pedestal itself wasn't very impressive, but what it did was amazing. The gems were radiating a soft light, powering the shrine to create a miniature mass of stars on the ceiling. A spiraling collection of stars varying in size and color lit up the room, sparkles of colors here and there shined colorfully on the onyx walls and reflected off the silver lining everything in the room had. 

"Well, I've never actually been inside your quarters," Spike admitted. "So over the years I just kept imagining things you would have." 

"My room is actually dull in comparison. I indeed do have things of high caliber, me being the Princess of the Night and all, but I do not line everything with a silver border or embed my cutie mark on their surfaces." Luna deadpanned.

"Hey. A lot of other ponies think you do that," Spike held out a hoof in defense.

"Sure they do, Spike," Luna replied flatly. One could feel the aura of unconvinced Luna was emanating. That feeling quickly subsided when Luna gestured a hoof towards the bed against the wall. "Come. Let us converse on the lovely feeling of a soft mattress."

And so the pair embarked on a noble quest for soft bed sheets and fluffy pillows. Many trials and tribulations awaited the coming adventurers. The Steps of Straining. The Callous Carpets. The Stained Mahogany Coffee Table of Inevitable Sovereignty. And lastly was Tedders the Teddy Bear. Actually there was nothing forbidding either of them from reaching the bed besides maybe a step here and another there, but that was about it. So unless they were that slothful it was nothing too strenuous or tedious to deal with. When she reached the edge of the bed, Luna pounced onto it like a house cat, her impact causing pillows to jump into the air and scatter across the bed. Spike smiled inwardly at Luna's foalish display, For an alicorn that is over a millennia old, she could be such a filly at times. 

Spike followed Luna onto the now messy mattress and seated himself across from her. The mattress was really soft, it was what he imagined a cloud to feel like. To Spike's dismay, he had not sprouted any wings during his aging, unlike his full grown dragon counterparts. It was especially saddening to find out he could only get wings if he had hatched with them, so his dreams of flying in skies amongst his friends and relaxing on the floating white cotton candy were shattered and buried.

Silence permeated the room. Neither of them said anything to one another, nopony wanting to break the quiet spell currently on the room. It gave each of them a moment to think. 

Luna was the first to break the silence. "You did a wonderful job though, Spike," Luna's words shook Spike away from his earlier thoughts. He raised a questioning eyebrow at Luna, he wanted more of an explanation on what she meant. What did he do a good job on? His curiosity steadily rising.

With a sweep of her hoof, Luna gestured Spike as whole. "I am referring to the form you are using, this replica of me you currently are wearing. It's very easy to dream an image of somepony into your dream, for the mind never forgets a face it has seen. But dreaming of being somepony else is by far harder, more than anypony would think it to be."

Spike was nodding, confirming he was paying attention and waiting for Luna to continue. "Anypony can dream of being, Celestia or myself, Spike. Most ponies only use estimations or common details anypony has had of us to subconsciously create our image on themselves. But for you to do so in such detail, and so accurately at that, is what is truly astounding." Luna explained.

"But this is a dream though, isn't it? Does any of this actually matter?" Spike asked quizzically.

One of Luna's bare hooves ran along Spike's side, the sudden feeling eliciting a feminine squeak of surprise from him. "This may just be a dream, yes. But dreams are not credited for their accuracy," Spike watched Luna drag one of her hooves against his well groomed dark blue fur coat. "The texture of my fur is correct. Not only the feel of my fur, but -" Luna took a quick whiff of Spike's fur - "the scent is exact as well. The aroma of my Moonflora shampoo lingers on your fur. I can't help but wonder if..." 

Spike stayed quiet patiently waiting for Luna to continue. He clutched the pillow in his hooves tighter, the uneasy silence rattling his nerves. Was this a premonition for something to come? "Does this mean anything, Luna? Is there something more to my dreams?" said Spike voicing his concern.

Luna shook her head. "It was just a thought, Spike. I would not ponder too hard on the subject. You have been assisting my sister and I very frequently these past few years, not to mention the numerous visits I have made to converse with you these past years. I would say the amount of time you have spent with us has simply gathered in your thoughts to a point where it needed release," Luna's ears droop and her now downcast eyes look away from Spike, her smile no longer there." We have all been working you exceptionally hard as of late."

A heavy sigh escaped Spike. His job had been exhausting and emotionally draining. All the princesses had been running him ragged the past few months. Being a personal adviser for the four of them and the lead organizer on many of their varying projects throughout Equestria wasn't a walk in the park, it filled his schedule up to the brim. And to think, this all started a few years back when Spike was looking for a job to bring in some bits. Princess Celestia had found out he was searching for an income, by an anonymous purple-winged unicorn that shall remain nameless, and offered him a job helping her organize a few events and grand openings. When it was all well and done, Celestia was beyond impressed with the dragon's success and wanted to compensate Spike for services rendered. He had originally declined Celestia's offer to pay him, not wanting to take money from a friend who he was helping, but she was very insistent that he accept the bits as payment. And Celestia had payed him more than plenty. 

From then on, Celestia had given Spike more jobs to do. Most of the jobs still consisted of assisting her with tasks around Canterlot, very rarely was it something different. To Spike's disappointment he could no longer regularly help Twilight, and so she had to hire another assistant to help out. Nopony could replace him, Twilight made sure he knew that, but it was all she could do while he was working with Celestia away from Ponyville. After a year working solely for Celestia, Twilight wanted his help. Spike was happy to once again be assisting his sister. And thus began his very busy position as a royal assistant and foremen for all of the princesses. And a very satisfactory pay-grade. Very satisfactory indeed.

Releasing his grip on the pillow he was holding in his hooves, Spike inched closer to Luna's side of the bed. He wrapped his front hooves around her neck in a comforting embrace and nuzzled the side of her face. "Hey, it's okay, Luna. I wouldn't be Equestria's number one assistant if a little hard labor could hold me back," Luna returned Spike's nuzzle and gently broke his grasp on her neck. She looked back at him and into his eyes, a smile once again formed on her muzzle, a smile that should have never left in the first place. "I am not the chubby baby dragon I once used to be, Luna. I would like to think I have done some growing up in these past years." 

Spike felt Luna nuzzle him cheek before she began speaking. "Indeed you have. And to think, you used to barely reach Twilight's withers," said Luna.

Spike chuckled into his hoof. "That was years ago Luna! I am at least four-to-five times taller than that now."

"To you, perhaps. To me, it seems like it was only yesterday when you were smaller than I," said Luna.  

There was a moment of silence. Neither of them spoke.

"Spike," Luna asked as she looked up at him. Her happier tone had shifted to an ever the more serious one. "May I be so bold as to ask you a question?" 

"Sure, Luna," Spike said, his voice slightly hesitant. "Fire away."

"Why do you put up with all of my foalish antics?" Luna asked solemnly. "Surely, you do not find them pleasing or complimentary? I am curious as to why you deal with me."

"Why, you ask? Well, it's because you are a really good friend, Luna," Spike replied. He saw the ears on Luna's head droop slightly, though her facial expression remained unfazed. That wasn't the answer she was looking for it seemed. But she wasn't going to show it. "And, because you are a very important mare in my life." 

Luna's ears perked up. That was what she wanted to hear. "You helped me get through some tough times in my life. Times when Twilight and her friends tried to help, but were unable to. And that's when you came and started to talk to me in my dreams. You helped console me when nopony else could," Spike explained with a grin spread across his muzzle.

Luna's expression softened, her features loosing there once solemn edge. "I could not stand idly by while one of my subjects suffer. Especially if said subject is a friend."

Spike placed a hoof on his chest over his heart. "Ever since you started those visits, I've counted you as one of the ponies I hold close to my heart. In a way you are like Twilight, I wouldn't survive if either of you stopped caring about me. And nor could I stop caring about you two. I am bonded to the both of you."

Luna sat quietly absorbing the words spoken by her companion. She knew Spike wasn't lying when he said they were bonded. If he was not by Twilight's side, he was by hers when he had a job in Canterlot. She had assumed he was just more comfortable around her because of all the late night chatting they've done over the years. It was something she had never payed any mind, never once  To be regarded so dearly by another in such a way by somepony other than her sister baffled her. Luna was at a loss for words.

"Now, may I ask you a question, Luna?" Spike asked, interrupting Luna's train of thought.

Refocusing her attention on Spike, Luna held out a hoof motioning him to continue. "You may. Ask away, Spike." Her curiosity peaked. What could Spike want to know?

"Does it not bother you that I've been talking to you the entire time using your own voice?" Spike questioned with a smug grin on his face.

Luna laughed at Spike's question. She worried he would ask something deeply private about herself. And was she ever the more wrong. "And why would that bother me, Spike? I happen to enjoy hearing myself talk." And once again the two alicorns laughed and giggled together.

This is what these dreams were about. Not actually dreaming, but having fun with a friend. What may have started as a place to hide away in solitude and isolation from rejection, had come so far as to become something far more than Spike could ever imagine. It became something hopeful and fun. A place where he could enjoy quality time with his amazing friend and princess, Luna.

The pair calmed down from their laughing fits, breathing in and out to calm their fast beating hearts. After calming down, Luna turned to Spike once again. "It is such a shame you are courting another mare currently, otherwise I would claim you as mine right here and now," Luna moved to lay on her side and sighed heavily. "You are too kind in indulging an old alicorn with affection such as a gentle nuzzle or a close embrace. You are a very good friend, Spike."

"I know, Luna. And you are a very good friend as well," Spike stopped speaking and moved his wings to cover Luna across from him. "I want you to know that I am here for you, Luna. I will be by your side if you ever need me, just as you have done for me. Let's say on the off chance my current marefriend no longer wants anything to do with me, and you still have these feelings for me. Now, I'm not saying that I wish us to be separated or for us to break-up. No. None of that. But if it does happen, I will be ever the happier to court the Princess of the Night. But for the moment, I need said princess to stay a very close friend. Can I ask that of you, Luna?" 

Luna released a depressed sigh. She placed her wings over Spike's and gave him a slow dejected nod. "Okay. Then a friend I shall remain, Spike. For now at least. May I be granted one more affectionate nuzzle session this night?" Luna pleaded. She looked up at Spike with the most regal puppy dog eyes she could manage. Stoic, yet adorable. Luna is such a tease.

"Of course you may." 

And for the last time tonight Spike nuzzled Luna's warm cheek. It was the least he could do for Luna. She had an infatuation with him and still remained so calm and collective about him being with another mare. And if he had to cuddle and hold Luna every now and then, it was a price worth paying.

A tremor shook the pair out of their thoughts and abruptly ended their nuzzling session. The whole room was shaking violently, pictures and wall decor were falling onto the floor with a crash. Spike, scared by the sudden shaking, gripped Luna tightly with hooves and wings  and held on to her for dear life. And then as sudden as the quake had appeared it had vanished.

"What was that!" Spike exclaimed turning his focus to Luna, who was chuckling at him in his clutches. He unfurled his wings around Luna and slightly let up his hold around her. Why was she laughing at him? 

"T-tis all well, Spike," Luna assured the panicked mess of an alicorn before her. "Somepony in the waking world is attempting to stir you from your slumber. Nothing to fret over."

Another quake shook the dream hard causing the entangled pair to roll of the bed and onto the floor. With a thud, Spike hit the ground and groaned outwardly. His back was to the floor and Luna had landed on top of him. In an attempt to get up off the cursed floor Spike had rammed his muzzle straight into Luna's. 

With a giggle, Luna pulled away from the impromptu kiss. "Spike, you sly fox. What would your marefriend say if she came across you kissing other mares?" Luna said mockingly. 

A blank expression replaced Spike's former shocked one. He just stared expressionless at Luna who could only giggle more at the reaction she had gotten out of him. 

"You are about to be woken soon, Spike," Luna pointed out. "I shall see you again when you arrive in Canterlot."

"And I shall see you then as well," said Spike. He waved Luna a hoof goodbye. "And will you tell your sister I said hello."

Luna nodded. "I shall. But before I go, I would like to be the first to w-"

The dream world vanished before Luna could finish. The wonderful realm of imagination was replaced with a temporary complete darkness until a flash of sharp pain surged through Spike's jaw. Spike opened his eyes and winced at the light now invading his vision. His sleep filled draconic orbs were shut tight, hiding from the blinding summer light shining in from one of the many windows in his view. Spike rose from his spot on a seat and put a claw to his agonizing jaw and rubbed it soothingly. His claw? Spike was no longer an alicorn it seemed. He was once again a purple and green magical dragon. Thick armored purple scales from head to toe, a mouth filled with razor sharp teeth, recently sharpened green claws on his hands and feet, and pointed green spines trailing in a line from the top of his head down his tail ending right before his pointed spade. Darn, it was such a good dream too.

A heavy fusion of a yawn and a groan escaped Spike's scale covered maw. He once again opened his eyes. This time, instead of blinding sunlight, he saw Apple Bloom standing in front of him. The light was no longer shining in his eyes, but cascading over Apple Bloom revealing her well toned frame. No longer was she a small filly with a mission to do anything and everything to obtain her cutiemark, she had turned into a fine young mare that had discovered her special talent, whom he was proud to call his marefriend. One of the things Spike loved about Apple Bloom was that she always smiled when she was around him. Except when she was angry, frustrated, embarrassed, or overall upset with him. So about half of the time. And now was one of the those many times. Apple Bloom was leering at him with an annoyed yet embarrassed expression on her face. 

Spike's winced and applied pressure to his no longer mysterious wound, temporarily breaking his attention on the farm pony. The pain in his jaw asserted its presence, pulsing once again in agony. "By the name of the Celestial Sisters! Why would you do that!" he yelled.

A hoof from Apple Bloom pointed to spot on the seat to his left. "Yer near boilin' drool was startin' to melt the darn seat! We could all smell the burnin' materials from the other side of this here train car," she shouted at him.

Spike sniffed the air. As if on queue, a new "intoxicating" scent invaded his nostrils. He turned his head towards the spot Apple Bloom had indicated with her hoof. It was the spot where his head was laying moments prior, only there were some differences that separated that part of the seat from the rest of it. Where his head had been was a crescent-like shape crease where the material of the seat had begun to meld and burn from his molten-like saliva. Spike, with the back of his clawed hand, wiped the remaining drool of his face. "Oops."

Snickers from many other ponies could heard from behind the nearby seats and to Spike's right. Standing in the middle of the walkway were Apple Bloom's best friends; Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. Those two, like Apple Bloom, had also aged passed their crusading stage and earned their own cutie marks as well. Peering over the seat in front of him were Applejack and Rainbow Dash trying to stifle their laughter. Applejack was covering her smile with her signature stetson while Rainbow was holding a hoof over her mouth. And lastly, in the seat behind him were Fluttershy and Rarity, whom were both giggling at the dragon's expense.

"Enjoy the nap, punching bag?" Rainbow Dash quipped, causing another wave of snickers from the other mares surrounding him.

"Yes, ha ha. Let's all laugh at the big purple dragon who got hoofed in the face by his marefriend," Spike said with a grimace as he threw his claws in the air. Not too long after did his expression subside and change into a small smile. "You guys could've just woke me up the way, Twilight does you know."

"No can do big guy," said Applejack. She adjusted the tattered stetson on her head before continuing. "Ya know very well that, Twilight is the only pony who can wake ya up like that. None of us ain't got that special touch like Twi' does."

"But that doesn't mean you physically assault me with an Apple Family hoof to the jaw," Spike rubbed the sore spot on his jaw. "I gotta' give thanks to whatever force gave dragons scales for armor. That would have been broken otherwise."

"Better that, than lettin' ya burn the seat further and pay fer the whole thing. At least this way ya just gotta pay for that darn seat," said Apple Bloom.

Spike grabbed Apple Bloom and pulled her close. He held the young farm pony in slightly tighter than normal embrace. "And that is one of the reasons I love you, Apple Bloom. You save me a few bits every now and then."

The young mare in Spike's grasp was more than welcome to return his affection, deciding to wrap her own front hooves around his scale covered neck and kiss the drake. All the mares around the couple, excluding Applejack and the two feather headed flyers, let out a collective 'Aww' as the two lovebirds held one another. "And here I thought ya' loved me for my voice, and lovely personality," said Apple Bloom with a coy smile. 

Barely a moment passed before her coy smile grew bigger and more flirtatious. "And fer that one other thing I do for ya every other Friday," flirted Apple Bloom. The surrounding group of friends all blushed at her dirty implication, the exception being Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo who were both snickering at the reactions of their other friends.

"Whoa, settle down there broodmare," said Applejack astonishingly. Her face was by far the reddest out of the group. Be it from full on embarrassment or a mix of it along with anger, nopony could tell for sure. Applejack pointed a hoof at her younger sister. "There ain't a need for ya to go flaunting yer 'escapades' around. Especially with me here, Missy."

A giggle escaped from Apple Bloom's lips. She turned to look at her older sister behind her. "Alrighty, sis. Yer just no fun, ya know that?" 

"She's just a little jealous is all, A.B.," Spike whispered into Apple Bloom's ear.

Applejack pointed a hoof accusingly at Spike. "Ah heard that ya' overgrown lizard! It ain't like that at all! I just don't wanna hear about how the two of y'all go at it like dogs during mating season!" exclaimed Applejack. She had yelled loud enough that the other ponies residing in the train car turned their heads towards her to find out what all the fuss is about.

"Applejack, darling!" Rarity yelled in shock. "Keep your voice down. We wouldn't want the little fillies and colts sharing this cart with us to hear such crass language."

Applejack looked around and noticed all the extra attention she was attracting. Cursing at herself inwardly, she sank down in her seat and tipped her hat to cover part of her face to hide her embarrassment. "My bad," said Applejack at a much lower volume. 

Spike and the rest of his friends all laughed at Applejack's embarrassed state. It took a friend a friendly hoof to the side by her friend Rainbow Dash, but not long after did Applejack also join in the merriment and laughter. This was what it was all about. Friends being together and having fun. They could always rely on one another when they needed anything. And that meant a lot to each and every one of them. 

"I love each and every one of you guys," Spike happily said. He looked deeply into the eyes of the mare within his grasp, Apple Bloom. "And I definitely love you -" Spike tightened his grip on Applebloom, pulling her closer and rubbing his scaley purple cheek against her own warm furry cheek "- my little, Apple Blossom."

Apple Bloom returned Spike's nuzzle affectionately. She pulled her head away from his and gave him a playful bop on the tip of his snout. "And I love ya too my dashing knight of scales." 

"Bleh." Scootaloo retched at the completely sappy display in front of her. "P.D.A much?"

And with a hoof that has turned the page of many a romance novel, Sweetie Belle whacked Scootaloo over the head hard enough to make the orange pegasus elicit a loud cry of pain. "OW! Why with the hitting!?"

"Don't ruin the moment!" Sweetie yelled, scolding Scootaloo for her insubordination to the romantic .

"C'mon, Scoots. You know very well that our group has always had a thing for violence. It's our go-to option for threats against Equestria," said Spike. "Well, except for, Fluttershy over here. No offense."

Fluttershy waved a hoof dismissively. "Don't worry, no offense was taken, Spike. I don't like to harm living creatures, or other ponies for that matter. Gosh, I don't even like thinking about it," said Fluttershy. Her voice soft and compassionate.

"Yeah, c'mon, Squirt! Get your head in gear!" Rainbow yelled excitedly. "Hitting things in the face is one of many awesome things we get to do on a regular basis. Comes with being in the group."

"And yet, Twilight denied my request to have club t-shirts made," Spike shook his head in disappointment. "Such a shame. Would've been a hit." 

Apple Bloom raised an eyebrow at her draconic partner. "And how exactly do ya think you will fit in one of em? Yer spines would just rip the darn thing into shreds faster than, Winona could destroy a roll of toilet paper." 

Spike turned towards Apple Bloom, a defeated expression now on his face. "A dragon can dream, Apple Bloom. A dragon can dream." 

"Well, Applebloom darling there is that. And the fact that our dear, Spikey Wikey is over twice our size. It would require me to tailor a shirt to fit him respectively. I would ever graciously do so, but I have so many orders and deadlines on my plate as of late. It shall have to wait until I have thinned down my list of responsibilities, however," Rarity pointed out. 

A thought came to Spike's attention. He had been asleep since he first boarded the train to Canterlot. He had no idea how long he had been out. Him and his friends were heading to Canterlot from Ponyville to celebrate his birthday. Well it wasn't actually Spike's birthday, it being a week later than the actual day. Princess Celestia had wanted to celebrate all of Spike's past birthdays she was unable to attend. She wanted this birthday to be like no other he had experienced before. And with all of his friends there, it definitely just might.

Spike looked around at all of his friends. "Do any of you guys know how long I was out?" he asked curiously.

"Well, Spike. Since yer just itchin' to find out. I suppose I can tell ya we're almost to Canterlot," Apple Bloom playfully teased, her tone of voice matching her flirtatious visage. She ran one of her hooves in slow continuous circles on Spikes chest. "I reckon we got a lil' under half-an-hour till we reach our intended destination."

"Well then. I think we should use this limited amount of time to our advantage," said Spike, his masculine voice mirroring Apple Bloom's amorous tone. He placed one of his clawed hands on the back of her head and pulled her in for a kiss. 

"Okay, Squirt is right. You two seriously need to get a room," Rainbow Dash said flatly. After taking a deep breath to calm down she started rubbing her temples with her hooves. The amount of pure saturated sappy romance in Rainbow's view emotionally and psychologically hurt Scootaloo and herself. "Could you two just bang it out when we get to Canterlot. If I have to go another minute listening to the two of you get all kissy-feely, I'm going to vom. I swear on my life, I haven't seen this much sexual tension since, Shining Armor and Princess Cadence decided they would abstain from sex for a day in support of newly wedded couples."

"Rainbow!" Rarity exclaimed, shocked to hear her friends choice of words. "Both you and, Applejack seem to have a very colorful choice of words today. I hope that the two of you will not be acting in such a manner whilst we are in Canterlot. I kindly ask that the both of you at least indulge me in that matter."

"Relax, Rarity. It's fine. My little Apple Blossom and I haven't been helping in that regard," said Spike. "Besides, we're going to be celebrating my birthday after all. I want everypony to relax and enjoy it. Even if I have to force, Twilight to do so."

"Don't worry, Spike," Fluttershy said sincerely. "I'm pretty sure, Twilight will do her absolute best to stay calm and relax."

Everypony looked at Fluttershy with flat neutral expressions, making the mare giggle nervously as she shrunk into her seat  They all knew Twilight. She would have helped organize everything: plan the days events, made sure the staff got Spike's favorite meal down, arrange the seating chart for dinner accordingly, make a list of all the presents Spike will be receiving if any, double check all of her lists, and lastly worry Princess Celestia will think she has done something the wrong way and fail everypony in Equestria. It was similar to almost every event that involved Celestia's presence. Twilight may have gotten over calling her Princess, but Celestia was still the one she looked up to. 

"I'm sure that girl is doing okay," said Applejack as she adjusted the stetson on her head. "To tell y'all the truth, it's, Pinkie Pie I'm gettin' all anxious about. That girl hasn't been in Canterlot's newly remodeled kitchen before. I'm a little worried she'll have a lil' too much fun and hurt herself and the staff baking his cake."

"Pinkie will be fine, dear," Sweetie Belle assured. "After all, she is made of some pretty stern stuff."

"Ya don't have to tell me twice," replied Applejack wholeheartedly, earning a quick laugh from everypony. 

"Well, let's just hope the two of 'em haven't burned the place down faster than, Sweetie Belle can burn orange juice," said Apple Bloom mockingly.

Sweetie Belle's face exploded in red. Her once white cheeks were now a dark rosy red from embarrassment. "That only happened twice!" yelled Sweetie Belle in response.

Spike couldn't help but laugh and smile at all of his friends. Without them, today would be pointless. "I love all of you guys. Today is going to be the best late birthday ever."
> Chapter 2: Pre-Post Birthday Events
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next half-an-hour spent in the train car went by swimmingly for Spike and his friends. Everypony had spent time relaxing in their respective seats and enjoying the company of friends and family. Oh, how they talked and laughed at each others whimsical anecdotes and hilarious work related stories. Though the fun had to end momentarily with the train finally reaching Canterlot Station. For when they exit the train car, everypony would be separating to enjoy themselves until the time of Spike's birthday celebration. And nopony could wait until then.

All of the passengers were free to gather up their belongings and exit their respective cars after the train had docked into the station. Every filly and colt jumped out of their seats with newfound energy and joy after many hours of sitting still, the prospect of being able to play outside again overwhelmed them all. Parents were even shouting at their children to slow down, though most children would just ignore those cries of authority. With only a few of his friends having brought luggage with them on board, Spike didn't have a very hard time carrying their collective luggage off of the train. Not that his satchel and a few saddlebags would slow him down in the first place. Spike was a dragon after all, simple cloth bags wouldn't be too challenging. Though making sure not to step on screaming fillies and colts running through the lanes was pretty tough. 

One by one Spike and his friends stepped out of the passenger car and onto the smooth wooden platform of the train station. A cool breeze swept over them as they once again gazed upon the city, the smooth brisk mountain air greeting them on their return to Canterlot. For Spike it had been but a few days since he was last here. But for some of the girls, it had been a long while since they had took step inside the city. It was nice to return to a place that they shared so many fond memories in.

Spike set down the collective hoard of saddlebags he mule'd off of the train. Feeling a little stiff in his spine Spike stood straight up on his hind legs arching his back and stretching his arms towards the sky, a fiery yawn escaping his maw from relief of being able to stretch after a long train ride. A handful of ponies who did not know him by now were a bit frightened by the now towering beast breathing fire, but most ponies just brushed it off as ordinary. But who could blame them, his full height standing up on his hind legs was three times taller than their solar diarch, Princess Celestia. Horn included. 

"Spike!" yelled Applebloom whose cheeks were flushed with embarrassment. "Yer attractin' attention to yourself."

Lowering his arms down to his sides, Spike turned to looked around to see some ponies running away out of or into the city and everypony else looking in his direction. Everypony silently staring at him, watching in complete silence as everypony stopped their conversations to look at the fire-breathing giant before them. "Uhhh, hello, everypony," said Spike smiling sheepishly. He lowered back down onto all fours, his height now a little over that of Celestia. He was still taller than the average pony, but significantly less so.

After a moment to recollect in silence, everypony returned to conversing with one another and continuing along with their day. Everypony had resumed their lives like nothing had ever happened just moments prior. To them it was just another ordinary day in Canterlot. Spike wasn't exactly an oddity to the denizens of Canterlot. Not a lot of ponies knew him personally, but Spike could always be seen running around the city doing business for the princesses. So naturally only visitors would be caught off guard.

"Well," said Applejack, an astonished yet bewildered expression adorning her face. She adjusted the somewhat worn stetson that sat atop her blond ponytail-bound hair before she continued. "That there was certainly, uh... Somethin'."

"Indeed," Sweetie Belle nodded in agreement, the curls of her well-groomed, multi-colored mane bouncing about. "If it were to be anything at all, "something" would definitely fit the bill."

"I'll say," Rarity agreed. 

Apple Bloom hung her head low and sighed, the troubles to come already exhausting her. She turned around and slowly made her way over to Spike. "Why does being your marefriend have to be so much work? You are so lucky ah' love you as dearly as ah' do, Spike," said Apple Bloom as she stopped in front of Spike and gave him a peck on the cheek.

A toothy grin formed on Spike's maw that revealed his dagger like dragon teeth. Leaning down, Spike returned Apple Bloom's affection with a peck on the opposite cheek. He wrapped his arms around Apple Bloom and pulled her close to his chest. He rested his head on top of hers. "I know I am a bit too much to handle sometimes," Spike began, speaking softly but still loud enough that others around him could hear. "And I do apologize for the embarrassing things I put you through. I'm a big dragon, Apple Bloom. Making a scene isn't going to just magically go away by the power of song and dance. But luckily I have my little Apple Blossom to be around for me."

"Errmph!"

The sudden noise behind Spike and Apple Bloom had captured their attention. Everypony nearby turned around to see if they can locate the origin point of the mysterious noise. And find it they did. For in the direction of the noise was a hunched-over cyan mare with a rainbow mane covering her mouth with her hoof.

"I think I'm gonna be sick," mumbled Rainbow Dash from behind her hoof. The athletic mare's once blue face turned a sickly green in color. 

Scootaloo opened her saddlebag and dug through the contents until she found the item of interest, an average everyday folded brown paper lunch bag. She trotted over to Rainbow's side and hoofed over a paper bag which Rainbow swiftly took from her hooves and opened. Foul and unspeakable noises could be heard as Rainbow threw up her lunch into the once empty brown paper bag. Dreams that the bag had of once being filled with a nice Daffodil or Violet sandwich could no longer come to pass now. Although, under some extreme technicalities, I suppose it was still being filled with a Daffodil sandwich of sorts.

A sigh escaped Scootaloo as she sat down beside Rainbow. Scootaloo unfurled one of her wings from her side and gently began to rub and pat Rainbow Dash's back with the feathered appendage to help soothe the sickly mare. "There, there. Just let it all out," Scootaloo soothed. "It's gonna be okay, babe."

"Well, horseapples. I guess, R.D. wasn't lyin' when she said she was gonna toss up a few chunks, huh? I didn't think she was gonna actually cough up her lunch from some little public display of affection like that," said Applejack. She rubbed the back of her neck with a hoof. "Whew, Rainbow is startin' to look greener than, Granny Smith."

Now finished vomiting, Rainbow Dash pulled her muzzle out of the now filled brown paper bag and rolled up the end to close it. She spit on the ground in front of her and wiped any remaining saliva of her muzzle with the side of her hoof. "Okay. I-I think... I'm just gonna go throw this away now." said Rainbow. She got back up on all fours and began to walk away to find the closest trash bin in the area with the bag's rolled up end in her mouth.

"Oh, poor, Rainbow Dash," said Fluttershy in her normal soft, innocent tone. "I better go make sure that she's okay. Rainbow Dash and I will meet you all at the restaurant." 

Turning around, Fluttershy gently fluttered over and caught up to Rainbow Dash, landing beside her. The two appeared to talk back and forth as they passed many other ponies going about their own business. Fluttershy was asking Rainbow Dash various questions to assess her well being and Rainbow was constantly reassuring Fluttershy that she was okay.

"Well I hope, Rainbow Dash isn't going to be completely under the weather during the party. It would be most unfortunate for her if she was to miss this well prepared celebration for, Spike," said Rarity as she walked over and stood in between her baggage and Applejack. Rarity's soft smile faded and was replaced with a more worried and concerned expression. "She is going to be alright? Isn't she, darling?" Rarity asked Scootaloo anxiously.

After watching her marefriend and Fluttershy walk over towards the trash bin in the next area over, Scootaloo looked over towards Applejack and Rarity."Yeah, Rainbow Falls over there hasn't done any of her generally awesome stunts or usual feats of grandeur today. "The Balance", as she puts it, is outta wack. But don't worry about it, Applejack. The two of us will do some stunts, flying maneuvers and some aerial sprinting later on and she'll be back up to the normally amazing marefriend she generally is," Scootaloo reassured. "Assuming she doesn't want to go wash out her mouth and grab that quick bite to eat, that is."

Applejack tilted her head to the side and arched an eyebrow, a confused questioning look upon her face. "Might I ask what in tarnation is aerial sprinting?" 

Scootaloo smiled. "It's a flying exercise that combines generic speed flying with galloping motion-like stretches. You synchronize your legs to gallop along with the beats of your wings, appearing as if you were sprinting in the air. Since our innate pegasi magic really helps out in terms of exercise, Aerial Sprinting, or 'The Pegasi Run' as it is sometimes referred to as, is designed to work out the muscles in our wings and legs since Pegasi, athletically speaking, generally focus more on the strength and power of the muscle in our wings to increase our W.B.P.M., or Wing Beats Per Minute, and initial take off. Aerial Sprinting, unlike most other exercises, helps give us a chance to stretch out and use our legs a bit more, which we use in the beginning of races to launch ourselves into the air or sprint on clouds for whatever reason. Another thing that this particular activity helps us develop is focus and control. And I'm pretty sure you know by now why those two are important.," explained Scootaloo in quite the amount of detail, a very prideful smile on her face after. She doesn't get to show off her intellect very often in conversation.

Everypony still around stared wide-eyed at Scootaloo. Nopony believed she could give such an explanation. And in such detail as she did. Scootaloo wasn't an imbecile. No, not at all. She was an intelligent pegasus, but was one whom liked to keep things short, simple and to the point most of the time. 

"Whoa, Scoots," said Spike, blinking and scratching his temple with a single claw. He was genuinely surprised Scootaloo's intellectual outburst. She wasn't dumb by any means, Spike knew that, nor was he thinking that. It was just rare for Scootaloo to use more words than genuinely required. "I didn't know you had all of that in you. That was a doozy if I ever heard one." 

Apple Bloom giggled at Spike's little tease towards Scootaloo. She wrapped her right hoof around Scootaloo, who was turning red with frustration and embarrassment if her frown, furrowed brow and red cheeks were any indication. "She has her moments," Apple Bloom teased. "They're few and far between, but they exist."

"Hehe, you're funny, Apple Bloom," said Scootaloo with a somewhat forced smile. "I'll have to remember that the next time you want special seats for the Wonderbolts."

"Relax, Scootaloo. The two of them are just having fun at your expense," Sweetie Belle explained, giggling as she walked over to Scootaloo's side and wrapped her left hoof over Scootaloo, overlapping the hoof Apple Bloom had already wrapped around Scootaloo. All of them smiling and laughing with one another.

As the young mare's laughing quieted down a silence fell upon Spike and company. A silence that was not unwelcome at that point in time. The remembrance of fond and joyful memories with one another flowed through their minds. They were all together for a long time in Ponyville. The birthday parties, holiday celebrations, and every unconventional party Pinkie decided to throw all had value and meaning to everyone of their friends. But then everypony just got busy. They would try and try to have everyone together again, but someone was always unable to attend. Today however, would be different.

Spike wrapped his purple scale covered arm around Applebloom, Sweetie and Scootaloo, joining them at their side and adding more to the unplanned group hug. "Hey' girls. This party isn't just about me adding another year to my life. It will also represent the closeness and love I have shared with all of you over the years. Every single one of you are family to -" Spike's eye's widened in horror as something alarmingly important suddenly occurred to him "- Holy horseapples, we forgot, Starlight Glimmer!" Spike practically roared in the ears of his friends.

The eyes of everypony shot open in shock as they too came to the realization that they had indeed left Starlight Glimmer behind. They all looked around, turning there heads this way and that way frantically searching around in hope of finding their missing friend. It didn't take long for the group of friends to discover that their missing pink unicorn friend known as Starlight Glimmer was nowhere in sight. Well... Sugar honey ice tea.

Rarity huffed in irritation. "I cannot believe we left our poor dear, Starlight behind in Ponyville. This is so unbecoming of us to leave such a beautiful kindhearted mare behind due to our lack of attention. And it was one of our dearest friends no less!" Rarity fumed, doing her best to not break her lady-like demeanor. She was so frustrated at herself and the others for so easily forgetting about their friend Starlight.

The hard slamming of a hoof thundered against the concrete platform. "Dagnabbit! Ah knew that mare was bein' awful quiet," Applejack voiced angrily. She adjusted her hat once again with a hoof and moved some of her blonde hair out of her sight. "Ah tell ya' what, I am madder than a mute filly tryin' to compete in a karaoke contest."

"Oh. My. Gosh," said Scootaloo, standing there in utter disbelief. This whole situation was unbelievable. Only one thing could be said about this entire fiasco in her opinion. "This is so unbelievably hilarious."

Sweetie Belle sighed heavily, cursing inwardly at her friend Scootaloo's amusement of the situation. "Thank you for your input, Scootaloo, dear," Sweetie commented dryly. "It was very much appreciated."

Spike breathed in deeply, filling his lungs with oxygen to the point where he felt his draconic organs could not hold any more. Holding his breath for a moment, Spike exhaled the contents his lung had been holding. "Okay. Starlight is going to be pretty miffed, if not peeved, about this whole ordeal when she realizes she has to take a later train by herself," Spike paused for a moment and took a deep breath. "Let's not worry about that at the moment. I recommend that we go ahead and do what we want, or need, to do for now and meet up with the princesses at the castle later before, Starlight shows up and chews us out for practically abandoning her back in Ponyville." 

"Despite the stern talking to we shall most likely be receiving from our dear, Starlight later on, I do believe that to be an excellent idea, Spikey Wikey," Rarity agreed, nodding as she made her way over to Applejack. She tapped Applejack on the shoulder with her hoof to obtain the farm pony's attention. In a quick use of her magic Rarity grabbed her and Applejack's saddlebags, the objects enveloped in a lustrous azure aura, and put them on their respective owners. Now clad in her white saddlebag with a gold embroidered trim embedded with her cutie mark, and Applejack having her worn satchel, Rarity was ready to head unto the city of Canterlot. "Hurry, Applejack. We must be on our way, darling. Remember we still have to go fetch, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. I managed to get all of us reservations for lunch at the latest restaurant La Griffoniá and we must make haste!" 

Applejack sat on her haunches and sighed, rubbing her temples with her hooves attempting to soothe the oncoming headache she could feel making head-way. Today's events were already starting affect the farm pony. "Ah' reckon that's the only thing we can do on our part anyhow, seein' as we can't exactly just go back and fetch, Starlight," Applejack admitted. Standing up once again, Applejack looked at Rarity and forced a smile as best she could. "Alrighty, Rarity. Lets get to it."

"Wait, Applejack!" Apple Bloom shouted urgently, doing her best to grab her sister's attention before she and Rarity could embark on their quest for cultured food and scenery.

Upon hearing her sister's outburst, Applejack whipped her head around to face her little sister, her golden ponytail swinging behind her head. "Yes, lil' missy?" Applejack asked her sister curiously, wondering what it was her sister felt she needed to say.

Applebloom smiled at Applejack. "Ya better mind your manners, sis," Apple Bloom teased, pointing a hoof at her older sister accusingly. "Ah hear they prefer ya to eat nice and clean-like."

"Haha," Applejack guffawed in response, taking her Stetson off from atop her head with a hoof and holding it against her chest. She smiled and replaced her signature headwear atop it's rightful plaace. "Yeah, yeah. Don't go gettin' yer bow in a bundle, lil' missy. Ah gotta get goin' before, Rarity starts throwin' a hissy fit," Applejack stated.

"Alright, Applejack. Go have yer fun," Apple Bloom said, waving a hoof at Applejack to shoo her off.

Without a response to Applebloom other than her continuing smile, Applejack turned and metaphorically grabbed Rarity so they can once again began their journey for finer food. The pair passed many groups of stallions and mares as they walked; many of them entering or leaving the station with luggage in tow. Eventually though Applejack and Rarity disappeared among the crowd of Canterlot ponies going about their business.

Spike, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo all watched as Applejack and Rarity both blended amongst the crowd and melded into the city populace. With their eyes they followed Rarity's amethyst colored locks and Applejack's stetson bob along within the sea of ponies until
they disappeared around a corner of a bakery down the road. Everypony in the group, other than Apple Bloom, continued to watch the corner of that bakery for a few a little while longer. Just to make sure that Applejack had, in fact, went on her way.

After a brief moment of waiting just in case Applejack did decide to come back around the corner, Spike craned his head down to his friends. "Alright," voiced Spike. He turned his attention to Scootaloo and spoke. "Did you bring 'The Package', Scootaloo?"

Scootaloo whipped her head around and smiled mischievously. "You bet I did!" Scootaloo said aloud, holding a hoof up for Spike to hoof bump her. And hoof bumped her hoof with his balled up fist he did.

Sweetie Belle grabbed Scootaloo by her head and brought Scootaloo's face to her own, nose to nose. "He brought it!" Sweetie Belle chirped, a huge grin plastered on her muzzle. Scootaloo nodded her head in confirmation and Sweetie Belle's eyes grew to the size of dinner plates. Her emerald eyes sparkled with excitement that she hadn't felt since her Crusader days. 

Bewilderment was strewn across Apple Bloom's face; lost and confused to as what item her friends were referring to. "Umm. What are y'all goin' on about?"

Scootaloo walked over and grabbed her saddlebag from the collective pile they had laying about. After a moment of fishing through her saddlebag's contents Scootaloo took out a small, burgundy colored, wooden box. The container had nothing special in it's appearance other than the etched in pair of cherries centered on the lid and sides of the container.

"Applebloom," Spike said solemnly, resting his claws on Applebloom's shoulders. He looked straight into her eyes, getting up close to her face almost nose to nose and spoke softly, but loud enough so that Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle could also hear. "What may lie inside this specially made cherry wood cigar box are of some of the most refined goods amongst our Equestrian society."

"But what in the hay is insi-" Spike gently placed a single claw over Apple Bloom's lips, hindering her from speaking further.

"We are about to show you," said Spike, waving Scootaloo over with a claw. With a nod Scootaloo began making her way over Sweetie Belle was practically bouncing on her hooves impatiently waiting for her friend to . "Now a word of warning, Apple Bloom. That which is held inside has been banned in over twenty-eight different Apple family properties, five Orange households, a barbershop in Manehattan and forever prohibited from a pony by the name of, Quick Whiff."

A somewhat surprised and confused look overcame Sweetie Belle.  She turned to Spike and placed a hoof on his thigh. "What happened to, Quick Whiff that resulted in him specifically being banned?"

Spike scratched the back of his neck with his claws and chuckled slightly. "That's a story for another day, Sweetie. But for now, we have our tiny box o' goodies to enjoy." 

Scootaloo held the cigar box out for everybody to see. After a brief pause, she placed a hoof on the lid and readied herself to open the tiny box of wonders. Slowly Scootaloo lifted the lid upwards unveiling that which lies inside. Cigars. A ray of light shined on the box and the brown rolled as they were enveloped in a harmonious golden glow. One would believe that they could hear an angelic choir of Pegasi singing soothing hymns into their ears.

Apple Bloom stared in awe and wonder at the cigars before her. The cigars were all lined up in rows, each with a sticker of Miss Jubilee and her initials placed carefully on each cigar. The cigars themselves had a light tan colored wrapping. Apple Bloom noticed that the ends of each cigar closest to the band was a cut in a 'V' shape. Apple Bloom wasn't much of a smoker other than maybe the occasional hit or two, but she knew Spike had great taste in smokes. "It's so magical." 

A single tear slid down Sweetie Belle's cheek. The young mare overtaken by joyful emotions far beyond normal unicorn capacity. "No words. No words." Sweetie Belle sniffled and wiped the lone tear off of her cheek with the back off her hoof.

"Every gaze I cast upon these is better than the last," stated Scootaloo. She sat there staring at the cigars in awe just like the others. This wasn't her first time gazing upon a Cherryshine wonder. Nor would it be her last.

Scootaloo gently laid the open box down onto the concrete. With her hooves now free she stretched her front hooves forward and arched her back to stretch her currently unused flight muscles. "Cherry Jubilee started making them about four years ago as a side business and it took off. The only bad part is that she only makes so many boxes a year so she doesn't use too many of her cherries just to make cigars. But on plus side of that is that since our big lug of a dragon here became one of, Miss Jubilee's favorite customers, she reserves him about fifteen orders of her Cherryshine Cigars." Scootaloo informed her friends.

The cigars Cherry Jubilee crafted were legendary. Well actually they weren't as prominent as her customers made them out to be. Since Cherry Jubilee makes the Cherryshine Cigars at her ranch, Cherry Hill Ranch, in Dodge City, ponies of 'Higher Standard' tended to ignore or slander the product. But Miss Jubilee preferred her lack of publicity towards the cigar, too many customers would endanger her farm's cherries. The cigars were a fun idea and the customers loved them, but she couldn't ruin the lives of those customers that bought her cherries. And so, a mundane country specialty it will remain in the hearts of the outside world that reject it.

"Shield Sisters! To Arms!" shouted Spike. Quickly Spike grabbed a single Cherryshine out of the box with his big index and middle claws. With Spike the Dragon leading the charge the mares had no choice but to follow suit, each of them diving for a cigar to claim. "I didn't have, Scootaloo sneak my Cherryshine cigar box passed, Applejack for nothing."

Apple Bloom lovingly hooved Spike's arm with her free hoof and giggled. "That's because she'd kill ya six ways 'till Sunday if she ever found out ya even had 'em with ya in the first place, Spike," said Apple Bloom with a smile.

"Can we hurry up and light these things already!!!" Sweetie Belle shouted impatiently. Her other hoof tapping repeatedly against the pavement. Tap. Tap. Tap. The young mare's patience had long gone dry, the twitch in her right eye any further indication. Sweetie wanted the smoke and she wanted it now.

"Ha Ha!" laughed Spike. He reached his scale covered arm outward with cigar in claw holding it between himself and the girls. "Hold out the foot of your cigars, the side opposite of the 'V' shaped wedge on the end, close to mine. The only true way to light a Cherryshine is with a dragon's flame. Mine to be specific."

Hasty the young mares were to hold out their cigars to be lit by the dragon's green flame. Spike inhaled calmly, drawing in just enough air into his draconian lungs to accomplish the task at hand. Pursing his lips, Spike breathed out a small concentrated jet of green flame, a wisp that danced gently in the air to it's target. The small jet of fire singed the wrapping on the foot of the cigars and thus the Cherryshine cigars were lit.

Without a moment to lose Sweetie Belle brought the head of the Cherryshine to her mouth and wrapped her lips around the cigar. She took a strong draw from her cigar practically using half of the cigar on her first use, the ring of green flame quickly going down the cigar being of any indication. Sweetie Belle slouched and "exhaled" the cigar smoke, a thick malachite green cloud, breaking her normally dignified posture and let out a sigh that stated to anypony she was far more than just simply relaxed at the moment. Her green eyes became heavy-lidded, becoming partially hidden away behind her eyelids, and she had a dopey yet satisfied grin spread across her face. To anypony who saw her face it would look as if Sweetie Belle just had the greatest sex of her life and was basking in it's afterglow. 

Sweetie Belle reached up and took the smoke out of her mouth and sighed heavily, that same euphoric smile still plastered across her muzzle. "That was far better than stallion cock," voiced Sweetie Belle blissfully.

Giggles and stifled laughter were the responses of Sweetie Belle's peers. Scootaloo was covering her mouth trying her best attempt to mute her probable hysterical laughter while Spike and Apple Bloom were leaning on one another giggling at Sweetie Belle.

Spike took a hit from his cigar, taking extra care to blow the smoke away from his companions and the passersby, consisting ponies and griffins with the occasional other species here or there, walking passed the group of friends. "I know you've had your hooves full with the Cutie Mark Crusade, but I didn't think you were that stressed out, Sweetie?" 

Sweetie Belle sighed and turned to give Spike a smirk. She looked towards the ground and put out her cigar, grabbing it from her hoof with her magic and gently twisting the foot of the cigar on the pavement. With the smoke no longer currently lit, she stored it in her saddlebag for later. She returned her gaze to Spike. "You have no idea, Spike. Our business isn't a giant chain corporation but we do have the three buildings to maintain. We have the two small school-sized locations in Ponyville and Fillydelphia with our larger facility here in Canterlot. Not to mention helping, Twilight maintain her school. Hiring staff, keeping up with protocols and maintaining a budget are a tad harder than it looks, Spike.  With mwah-" Sweetie Belle gestured herself with a hoof "- doing the a little over half of the paperwork, along with monitoring our locations via visitation, I tend to have a full schedule when our classes begin and return from school. Not to mention the specialty everything for, Twilight's Friendship school. It's also not easy being a third-part co-owner with these two," Sweetie Belle teased, gesturing all of Apple Bloom and Scootaloo.

"Hey. I am a fantastic business partner if I do say so myself,' said Scootaloo, taking a quick puff of her cigar just to make another little smoke cloud. "I even got the cigar to prove it. Cigars are a pure representation of class and buisnessness."

Apple Bloom nodded slowly, unassured of her friends choice of wording. "Ah-huh. Buisnessness. Guess we can't put it anyway better than that," she replied sarcastically to Scootaloo.

Spike, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle sat at the depot for a few more moments exchanging words with one another. They continued on about the Cutie Mark Crusade schools the girls started a while back and how they hope to expand if proven successful. And as the conversation drew to an end another one began in it's place. The hands of time had turned on the the station and the whistle of a train ready to depart had sounded. Hooves and talons raced passed the Spike and company to catch their respective trains before departure. The oncoming masses of last minute passengers racing towards the them was the signal for Spike and the rest of his friends to continue on with their day. 

After barely escaping the stampede of rampaging pony families, dessert hound tourists and business ponies or griffins with their lives intact, possibly an exaggeration but important none the less, Spike began to plan the day ahead. Or at least all of the day he could control until they got to Canterlot later in the day. First on Spike's mind was to pick up Peewee from Magnifique Grooming, second would be picking up a gift from a friend at Through the Ages and last but not least, if time permitted, grab a small bit of carnivorous goodness at a diner here in Canterlot. And possibly stopping here or there for a visit with his friends around the city. Spike nodded to himself, approving of his plan of action.

Having their own plans and stops in mind before the party, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle left together leaving Spike to his own devices, Apple Bloom not having left without a peck on the cheek first. With a route in mind Spike made way to Magnifique Grooming, a well known and popular pet grooming salon and day care of sorts that offer a variety of services regarding pets of all shapes and sizes. Within reason of course. It was snooty, expensive and other more 'Elite' customers tended to disapprove of his presence, but the owner was a very kind older mare that knew a thing or two about taking care of many types of avian. Peewee deserved the best after all.

The day Peewee returned was a happy one for Spike. Spike could reminisce and lose himself in fondful memories of his phoenix companion, or he could make haste and just go pick him up from the caretaker. A more reasonable idea than standing in the middle of the street looking like an imbecile. And so off he went.

Spike's walk through the streets to Canterlot Market Plaza was refreshing. The feeling of the cool mountainous air flowing against your scales, or fur he imagined, was wonderful. He may be reptilian in nature, and definitely more accepting of hotter and more arid climate, but that gentle cold breezing across his furnace of a body sent slight shivers down his spine. Though in the winter it may be a 'touch' too much for him, the soft cool wind was definitely welcome sometimes.

With each step he took through town Spike's claws clicked on the hard stone surface of the streets. Step after step, click after click, he walked passed the homes and businesses of ponies and other species alike. Eventually, after about a little over half-an-hour of walking through Canterlot, Spike reached his first planned destination, Magnifique Grooming. 

The establishment was like most of the buildings in Canterlot, white bricked walls all around with golden window trims and borders. From the base of the building to about two feet up the walls were painted a light purple. With all his time spent with Rarity in the past Spike could make a guess at it being an orchid purple, or maybe even amethyst. Again he was out of practice with color association, having not assisted Rarity in the boutique for a long time. A dark blue cloth canopy covered the doorway and the display window nearby that stretched across building before stopping a few feet from the end. The window had an italicized "M.G." lettering encircled dead center on the window panel. 

Peering through the window, Spike noticed that none of the lights were on and there were no pets anywhere inside. No living thing was in the kennels, cages or even the little exercise areas one could see through the window. Confused as to why the shop wasn't open during it's normal hours Spike looked at the door to find a note or sign of sorts. And a note there was. Nailed to the door of the Magnifique Grooming was a note left by the owner, Silver Care. 


Dear Darlings,


I regret to inform you I have had a family emergency in Baltimare and must close the shop until I return in a couple of weeks. I have sent out letters and such as to inform you of this matter personally and to notify you to have your pets/companions/friends picked up at your earliest possible convenience. I sincerely apologize for this inconvenience and wish you the best during my leave.


Yours Truly, Silver Care


Regarding, Spike the Dragon. Your feathered companion, Peewee, was picked up after his session by, Miss Twilight Sparkle and shall be at Canterlot Castle awaiting your arrival. I apologize in advance for any bother I have placed upon you and hope to see you soon after my personal business is dealt with. Happy Birthday, Spike Deary.

The confused and annoyed look Spike once had was replaced with a soft smile. Well, he was still slightly irritated discovering he made the entire trip here for nothing. Other than that however, Spike was peachy. Hopefully his other stops would be more fruitful than the former, or at least not be a waste of time.

And to Spike's displeasure, they were not successful. Not in the least. Time passed and his next few stops had been met with similar results, a note on the front door explaining the absence of whom he was planning to meet along with their apologies and a Happy Birthday to him. It was frustrating. Spike really wanted to at least stop by Through the Ages to see his friend, but she wasn't there. Spike finally just gave up from all the frustration and decided to call it an afternoon. Even going as far as skipping his favorite carnivore joint and heading to Canterlot Castle. But Spike couldn't stay angry for long. His friends, his family, were waiting for him inside the castle. And he couldn't wait.

Spike charged through the stone streets and districts of Canterlot, scaring some passers-by as his dragon-sized frame "rampaged" through the city. He dodged vendor stalls that dotted Canterlot, rounded the corners of a few buildings and trod lightly around any and all ponies in his path to the best of his abilities. Amazingly he only nipped a corner or two during his trek through the white walled city... and may have possibly tripped over a banana cart. But what happens in the streets of Canterlot, stay in the streets of Canterlot.

Half-an-hour passed as Spike zoomed through the streets to the castle. His speed not waning, determination driving him ever onward. And then he saw it. In the distance he saw tall white and gold towers rising above the horizon piercing the amber heavens above. Spike was almost there. Another claw closer to his chosen destination.

Eventually the whole of the castle came into Spike's field of view. He was closing in and before he knew it Spike had crossed the smooth stone bridge and passed through the golden arch way into the castle grounds. No longer needing to hurry and run Spike slowed down his pace to a walk, passing stallions and mares donned in golden armor ornamented with stars and alicorn designs as he ventured deeper into the castle. He also noticed passing some ponies with darker fur, more noticeably having bat-like wings that were not unlike those of a dragon's or bat's, and cobalt armor with various shades of blue and silver. 

And finally Spike had arrived. Well, he still had to go inside and find his friends, but one step at a time. Spike made his way through the courtyard, exchanging greetings and small pleasantries with the royal guardsmen and whomever he passed along the way. It wasn't long until he stood inside the spacious foyer of the castle. You would think with how often Spike has ventured through this castle that he would tire of it's appearance. But Spike did not. He was very fond of the orchid colored walls, the long red rugs and the checkered tiled floors that branched through the castle. Many memories were made here in the castle.

The banquet hall was Spike’s next step in his personal quest. Having attended many parties inside the ban had been there many times before and had no problem navigating the maze-like halls of the castle to find it. A turn here and a turn there and he was another hallway down. Each hallway filled with various paintings of ponies and locations, some historical figures and places and some of Celestia and Luna. Maids cleaned and tidied up the paintings and other various decorations throughout the halls of the castle. 

After rounding one last corner, Spike was in the hall leading to the tawny colored banquet hall door. Spike could hear a diversity of voices coming from the other side of the door. Sniff. Sniff. Using his naturally strong sense of smell Spike tried to cheat and guess who all were attending his party that he could. But was it really cheating if it was his natural dragon sense of smell? Either way it didn’t work. Somepony must’ve put a charm preventing a particular dragon from ruining the surprise. Now where was the fun in that?

Making his way to the door at the end of the hall Spike heard a wider variety of voices varying in tones in the other room. Spike wasn’t expecting anypony more than his friends from Ponyville and the Princesses. How many ponies were invited? Before an answer could be guesstimated his claws clicked hard against the floor just before the door and the voices were hushed. Not a peep more was heard beyond the light brown door. A deep breath later and Spike pushed open the doors to the banquet hall. And a see, or maybe just a large lake, of ponies filled his view.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" 

Spike stood in the entry as he was bombarded with sound and light. All of his closest friends and family gathered here to celebrate his birthday with him. His friends from Ponyville, Manehattan and many of the places he visited were here as well. Of course Twilight, Celestia and Luna, Cadence, Apple Bloom and everypony of his inner circle was here but there was some many others it was a full fledged party in the room. His mom and dad were smiling and waving at him from across the room, Pinkie shooting confetti and cake everywhere as she grinned from ear to ear and just overall everyone was here smiling and waving him a Happy Birthday. All these different ponies gathered here to celebrate his birthday. Albeit a late party because his actual birthday had passed, but still good none the less. And now the party had begun.
> Chapter 3: Prelude to Want
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Spike," Twilight whispered to a sleeping Spike. She received no audible response to her actions from the slumbering dragon. Twilight sighed inwardly. 

"Spiiike," Twilight persisted, pushing her hoof against the scaley hide of the unwakeable beast she called a friend. Still and unmoving remained the fortress of scales and flame. Another push to try and raise the beast from it's state of limbo led to no avail. The mare would be tested this day.

Twilight sighed, a soft smile forming as she thought back to how hard Spike is to get up in the morning. She had a special spell to wake Spike when he typically seemed impossible to get up. She held it close to her heart as it was one of the first spells she crafted. And it was one of the few things Twilight had left that kept her connected with Spike. A spell that held so much nostalgic emotion and memories for the mare. Unfortunately others were presently asleep in the same room and she would rather not wake them as well. Twilight giggled at how motherly she could be over someone she considered an assistant, a sibling and most importantly a friend. Helping raise someone since they hatched would do that it seems. Spike was no longer a hatchling to be coddled and watched. But sometimes Twilight missed those days. The days of a small baby dragon that nestled himself against her barrel each night after a long day in the library. Nostalgia can be a cruel mistress when she wants to be. 

Reminiscing aside, the waking war waged on. Ever the more determined to wake the still slumbering dragon, Twilight pushed at Spike's shoulder harder, with more force than she had previously done so. "Spike," Twilight whispered louder in hopes that the living furnace would answer in kind.

It took Twilight many more a try until the alicorn finally succeeded. Spike slowly shifted his body as he finally began to wake up. After a few blinks of his eyes and a big yawn that put all of his sharp predatory teeth on display. Spike craned his neck up slightly to look at whomever intruded upon his sleep. With his vision distorted through tired, foggy, waking eyes, all Spike could see was a silhouette of a pony with features resembling that of an alicorn: having both feathered wings and a horn on their forehead. Though his vision was hazy, not that he couldn't narrow it down to one of four individuals, a familiar scent invaded his nostrils. A scent Spike had grown to associate with his sister and friend, Twilight Sparkle. It was hard to describe her scent if somepony other than a dragon asked. Twilight's scent was unique to her and her alone. It was as if you blended amethysts and the light freshness of lilacs together and added stardust to top it off.

"Tw-twilight?" said Spike, his voice still heavy with sleep. He blinked a few times to try and rid himself of the dreaded 'Morning Eye' that plagued him. Nobody in this world, or any sane one for that matter, likes blurry, hazy vision. "What's up?"

Twilight giggled softly behind her hoof and pointed behind Spike. Turning his head around to see behind him Spike spotted understood Twilight's caution being that there were currently three mares lying on or against him fast asleep. Rainbow Dash was lying atop Spikes lower back between his spines snoring fairly quiet and drooling on his back. Below Rainbow Dash lay Scootaloo with her hind end in the air, with her tail luckily laying in-between her legs covering her mare bits, leaning against his left side and her back to the floor. Most likely Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash were sleeping together and at one point Scootaloo fell onto the floor. And lastly was Apple Bloom curled up to Spike's side. 

Spike noticed that he was in one of the guest rooms of the castle. Purple eggshell colored walls and a white tiled floor with hardwood bedroom furnishings laid about. He, and sleeping company, were currently atop a purple rug that matched the room's soft purple interior. Despite there being a love seat a few feet away and a bed on the other side of the room, his friends chose rather to sleep on him. He resigned any annoying or frustrating thought in regards to that he is very warm. And he loved the feel of fur against his scales. It was something Spike could never get tired of.

Twilight looked over the mares slumbering within Spike's personal space. As fast asleep as they were, Twilight could only imagine how drained they could be from the night prior. "You all had quite the party from what I heard," Twilight whispered to Spike.

"Mmhm," Spike mummbled, looking up at his sister with sleepy, half-lidded eyes. "They had a drinking contest. No mercy this time, Twilight. Applejack brought some straight Appleoosan moonshine. She got that expensive one with the skull her cousin distills. Mors In Utrem, if I am not mistaken."

Twilight quietly groaned and shook her head in disapproval. Of course those two decided to go overboard. "Rainbow and Applejack finished the entire bottle, I presume?" 

"Indeed, Madame Sparkle. Indeed. Can you help me put them on the bed, please?" Spike whispered. It was highly doubtful he'd wake any of them up after all the booze they had the previous night but it was better to be safe than sorry. After their intoxicating escapade last night they need as much sleep a they can get. Any hangover they would get would not be a pretty one. 

A silent nod and Twilight's horn began to glow. She lifted her sleeping friends with her magic and gently laid them in the queen bed behind Spike. They lay there on soft blankets continuing to dream at their hearts content. Spike picked up his slightly worn leather saddlebag that was lying on the floor and hoisted it over and onto his back. Looking back to his sister and nodding his head towards the door Spike and Twilight both made their way into the hall, closing the door carefully as they left their friends to continue sleeping the day away. 

"MMmmngh," Spike groaned as he stretched his limbs and body, freeing them from what felt like a thousand years of slumber. Sounds of hooves from many different ponies echoed through the halls as Equestrians of all walks of life meandered on. The metallic clinking of the Royal Guard, a familiar clicking of claws and talons from dragons, griffins and hippogriffs along with the normal clips and clops of hooves and the occasional soft tapping of chitin sounded within the castle's interior creating a melody of it's own right for those whom listened and gave it the time of day it deserved. Twas an ensemble of unity for the longest time not thought possible in the past as nations chose to remain divided amongst one another. That is until, one fateful day many years ago, friendship came knocking at their doors in the form of six mares and a baby dragon. And the world was forever changed.

Something did sway Spike's attention from the beauty that was the life filled halls of Canterlot Castle. It lunged at him, hitting him unexpectedly like a back alley assassin or a Hay Loco burrito supreme. Though a part of him realized it was nothing he hadn't already known, it made the drake feel embarrassed and quite silly. He turned to Twilight and scanned his eyes over her, studying her appearance. Twilight was taller than her former years as a unicorn under the tutelage of Princess Celestia. And much like Celestia she was adorned in golden regalia. The mulberry alicorn had grown taller and her body was now more alicornesque, for lack of a better word. Her horn had gained a few inches and was now more befitting of a princess. Her frame had a more feminine, yet stocky, build that did not hinder any elegance she had. Twilight appeared very much akin to that of her sister-in-law, Cadence. Unlike Cadence however, Twilight's legs were thicker and her belly and thighs were also slightly larger than her sister-in-law's. Not to say Twilight was fat, or out of shape for that matter. No. She just desperately needs to lay back on the hayburgers. 

Twilight raised an eyebrow. "Is something wrong, Spike?" She inspected herself meticulously to find something out of place with her own appearance; hooving through her mane, scanning over her wings, checking her golden horseshoes, et cetera. "Is something in my mane?" 

"Hehe," Spike chuckled, scratching the back of his neck with his claw. It was one of his nervous tics. "No, Twilight. You look as lovely as you always do. At times I just can't believe you're blossoming into a beautiful alicorn. You, that little filly that couldn't take her head out of a book," He ran a claw through the purple and raspberry locks of Twilight's mane. "You grew up so fast, Twi'."

Twilight rolled her eyes and giggled. "You are just silly sometimes, Spike," She gave Spike a friendly hoof to the shoulder. "I hatched you from your egg, remember?" Twilight ran a hoof up Spike's neck and cupped his cheek, looking up into his eyes. "I helped bathe you, feed you gemstones and let you curl up beside me in my bed when you felt scared or lonely. You, my little fireball-" Twilight poked Spike in the chest with her free hoof "- are the one that is growing up too quickly," Twilight finished with a soft smile and nuzzled Spike's neck, which Spike returned in kind.

The hallways seem to have had their normal traffic of ponies maneuvering throughout them. Guards and the royal staff roamed the castle no doubt reporting for their assigned duties for the day along a with the occasional noble walking about. Among the plethora of staff in the hallway were the occasional service cart that would pass by with janitorial equipment or food and drink. Sometimes just drinks usually consisting of either coffee or tea. Such a cart transporting coffee passed within Spike's line of sight. Sadly breaking away from sisterly affection was required for beverages were needed. "I don't know about you, Twilight. But I do believe that I hear coffee calling my name," Twilight smiled and nodded then the two of  them began making there way down the hall and towards one of the break rooms. "So. What did you wake me up for, Twilight?"

Silence. Twilight didn't say a word as she leered at her number one assistant. "Spike... It's eleven fifteen," Twilight deadpanned. "You were supposed already be up and ready hours ago."

"Umm. I don't know-," The cogs turning in Spike's head had finally caught up with each other and his cognitive light-bulb powered on. He had an appointment at noon today. He was assisting a teacher in the castle. "-Oh!" Spike shouted in realization. "Yeah. I need to meet, Sombra at the classroom by twelve. I probably shouldn't be late to that."

"I wouldn't." Twilight replied in her normal tone. "But that is a biased statement coming from me, knowing my affinity for schedules and such. In fact, I already have the rest of this month planned out, as far as meetings and other diplomacy go, all scheduled within my planner. I still have stowed away the one, Rarity gave me years ago."

A hearty chuckle escaped Spike and a smug grin spread across his face. "That reminds me. How is, Ricardo doing these days?" Spiked teased, raising one of his eyebrows at Twilight.

Twilight almost tripped over her own hoof. Her cheeks flushed red with embarrassment. "You said you'd never speak of him again."

"Come on, Twilight," Spike gave a quick peck to Twilight's left cheek. "You know I love you."

The heat in Twilight's cheeks grew hotter. A small smile replaced her former awkward expression from a moment ago. Twilight returned Spike's affection, rubbing her cheek against his. "And I have a deep regard for you as well, my still number one assistant." Both Spike and herself shared a laugh at her choice of phrasing for their intimacy.

Twilight and Spike continued on through the castle with smiles on their faces making the occasional turn here and turn there the further they traversed the multitude of halls. Not but ten minutes have passed before an aroma came upon them. A familiar heavenly scent of Eclipse Coffee traveled from the end of the hall, inside the break room. Spike and Twilight were close. So close to the perfectly roasted coffee beans and the smoothest creamer this side of Equestria that they could taste it. The break rooms were meant for the staff and guards that happened to pass by or be stationed within the area, but nopony objected, not that they would, if Twilight or Spike swung buy for a cup of hot coffee. It was more for convenience on their part. Normally the pair would've headed to the main kitchen, but they had only so much time to spare.

There wasn't much to say about the break room in terms of description. It was just your average break room. Well average in Canterlot standards. Double that being in the castle. The room had a hooful of long dining tables with powder blue tablecloths, a few of which had seated staff ponies eating or chatting amongst each other. The walls were orchard in color much like the rest of the castle. Nothing overly thrilling and exciting about the break room. Except. On the far end of the room against the back wall was the cabinets that had all the supplies and appliances for the staff. Including a coffee maker ready to dispense the divine nectar that is known as Eclipse Coffee.

*Sounds that descended from the Heavens of Coffea*





After finding the closest break room and raiding it for the Eclipse coffee within, Spike and Twilight hung around the coffee cabinet passing stories, exchanging banter for a few minutes as they drank their own cups of coffee. Ponies, both guards and castle staff, came and went through the break room. Some even stayed, joining friends and coworkers sitting at one of the many tables that numbered the room. The clinks of glassware and the sounds of chatter filled the room. And it was all just background noise to Twilight and Spike, whom were deep in a conversation of their own. 

"- and that led to banning of Applejack and Rainbow Dash from any liquor selling establishment in Las Pegasus and the conclusion to the "Drinking Disaster of '15". After that the seven of us all put together a rough draft of rules and regulations that we all slowly tweaked and refined over time. The original intent was to put some restraint on Applejack and Rainbow Dash when we all decide to go out for vacation or a girl's night out. But it turned into something more than that," Twilight paused her story for a moment to take a sip of her recently obtained Eclipse coffee. She looked down at her mug and twirled the dark brown liquid for a moment before returning her gaze to Spike. "As time went by more of our friends added their own contributions and eventually I decided to compile them and jot them down in a more professional manner. I presented to them the idea of a small booklet and they all had no opposition to it. We also agreed on a section of the book being filled with our own individual experiences and stories. I took the liberty of organizing the books contents via an algorithm following popular trends and personal literary experience to maximize the experience and had them published into a book," Twilight levitated a brown book out of her saddlebag and showed it to Spike. The book was titled Elemental Drinking Habits and had a picture of a wine glass, a forty ounce bottle and a blue and orange hoof holding opposite sides of the bottle as the cover art. Gold trimming lined the edges of the front and back covers. "I got to put together a something that can bring entertainment and also supplies an arguably healthy standard for social or competitive drinking for our and anypony else's convenience. More importantly, I got to write a book," Twilight finished and drank down the last of her coffee, tossing the disposable cup in the trash canister nearby with her hoof. The paper cup hit the rim and bounced into the center landing down inside the trash can.

"Meh. Two points. I know you could've done a far better throw," Spike quipped eliciting a giggle from Twilight. Spike sipped on his own cup of Eclipse coffee. The dark brown miracle liquid had helped cure his morning drowsiness. "I miss the best stuff when I'm out doing my "chores" for Celestia and Luna. Between being 'The' pseudo diplomat for dragon-pony relations and essentially being loaned to Celestia and Luna as an assistant; it's hard to just breathe, let alone relax. Though I do still enjoy anything in the Crystal Empire. But I don't think I have to tell you why I have a good time there," Spike gave Twilight a knowing wink. "It's good to have a nice break."

"I second that," agreed Twilight. She placed a hoof on Spike's shoulder. "I agree in that it can definitely get stressful, Spike. You just have to find something that takes your mind off things. It was once said that "Distractions are merely a tourniquet for madness". Not a completely accurate use of the word tourniquet, but I think you get the idea. Try and take it easy when you can. And while you're relaxing you can read the book and give me your thoughts on it. Just be glad you don't have to be a princess. I've seen your list of duties, Spike. I don't mean to sound arrogant, but I have seen your list of duties and mine dwarfs yours by a long-shot," Twilight levitated a book from within her own saddlebag to Spike, whom now held it in his claws.

Spike chuckled softly before finishing the last of his coffee and tossing the empty disposable cup in the trash. "I've really missed you girls. I've been around all of you for so long it's hard to be apart sometimes. Especially, Apple Bloom. I miss feel of her fur. I'm still glad she's putting up with me. This week is gonna be the last time I see her for a while. "

"Don't worry, Spike. Your marefriend loves you very much. But don't forget we all do," Twilight assured. Leaning over she gave Spike a peck on the cheek. "We all have missed you, Spike." She gave Spike's shoulder a few pats with her hoof. "C'mon, big guy. No more depressing talk. Let's head on over to the classroom. We have already wasted enough valuable time simply getting coffee."

Spike pulled open his saddlebag and stuffed the book gifted to him inside and slung the saddlebag onto his back once more. "Okay. When you're right, you're right," admitted Spike.

The both of them, Twilight Sparkle and Spike, left the break room and braved the halls of the castle once more, making their way to the classroom. The remaining trek was a blur to Spike as the dragon got lost in his thoughts. The halls, perhaps even the world, became hazy as his body switched to autopilot. Step after step. Click after click. His thoughts drifted to his friends. Memories and feelings flowed through his mind. The feel of their fur touching his scales. The musky smell of books and oak. A smile crossed his face as familiar pleasant memories replayed in his head. In the corner of his vision Spike noticed Twilight turning into another hall. Briefly the world became normal again as the hallways filled with color and life. His eyes settled onto his lifelong friend, Twilight Sparkle, and a warm feeling washed over him. That is... Until his gaze reached the set of scars on Twilight's right shoulder. And the once comforting warmth was swept aside as a cold darkness took it's place.

Dread now took hold within Spike. A dark sensation he never wanted to feel again. One that has plagued him, haunted him since his adolescence. Twilight's scars were burned forever in his thoughts and memories. And it is there they shall stay forever. For a dragon never forgets the deeds he commits. Memory becoming nearly photographic as a dragon grows older. One of a many number of reasons ancient dragons are extremely dangerous. It was blessing to most. But for Spike it was nothing but a curse, a hex waiting to be dispelled. Those four lines of flesh wounds trailing a foot down Twilight's forearm from her shoulder were permanently branded into his mind. Forevermore will those four dark mulberry slash marks be branded to memory.

No longer could Spike look at Twilight and her scars. Spike turned away and stared at a wall. But she was his sister. He should be seeking her help in his time of need. Spike needed a light within his ever growing darkness. Spike turned his head, looking around to find Twilight was no longer there. And not just Twilight, but all the guards and staff ponies that trotted through the hall had disappeared without a trace and left the hall barren of life, other than himself. Not even the sound of echoing hoofsteps reached his ears. Spike's breathing sped up, his heart pounding in his chest as Spike's anxiety took hold. Where was Twilight? Where was his sister!? And silence were his answers. Deafening silence. Spike looked, turning this way and that, hoping to see somebody, anybody at all. But all his efforts left Spike with the same fearful answer. That nobody was there.

Zzzzzt. The florescent lighting above flickered, flashing on and off as if it had some sort of electrical problem. Windows that once displayed a perfect sun filled day were now displaying nothing but an abyss of black. Spike's breath turned cold, visible with each ragged, painstaking inhale and exhale. The temperature was dropping drastically and his normally hot, practically boiling, blood ran icy through his veins. Ice had begun to creep its way up the edges of the glass window panels like overgrowth, shrouding them in white against the black, empty vale behind them. 

Spike shivered, his body losing heat to the sub-zero temperatures as it increased along with his anxiety. He halted, standing like a statue as the strange, unpleasant feeling that someone was watching him came jolted down his spine. Slowly, ever so slowly, Spike turned his head to check whom, or what, was watching him in this empty hallway. And there, about ten feet away, was Twilight Sparkle smiling at him. A big dopey grin quickly spread across Spike's face when he saw Twilight standing behind him and he was about to run over and embrace his sibling. But before Spike even had a chance to all conviction he had was gone when Twilight's once cheerful, heart warming smile had dissipated and left only a scowl in it's ashes.

"Tw-twilight?" Spike stammered. A pit began to form in Spike's stomach; his fear ever growing and leaving a knot in his gut. 

ZZzzzZt. Again the lights above flickered uncontrollably. Twilight's right arm began tear open in four gashes and blood began seeping out of the fresh wound, trickling down the purple alicorn's arm. Spike stared at Twilight, unable to turn away from her and the dark crimson flowing down onto the floor. The smell of iron swarmed the air and flooded his nose as Twilight continued to bleed, her blood puddling onto the ground making a small lake of lost vigor beneath her. His heart beated and thumped in his chest like pistons in an engine going as fast as draconicly possible. Spike was unable to turn his gaze. Every fiber of his being wanted to look away and focus on something else, anything other besides this horrific display of gore. But the dark wouldn't allow it. And the red made sure he couldn't.

Blood that poured from Twilight soon flooded the hallway leaving a sea of dark crimson that was slowly rising up to Spike's ankle. PSSH! A light at the end of the hall behind Twilight shattered and darkness encompassed the once light-filled space. 

"Why," Twilight spoke, her voice as cold and as heavy as dead weight. It would send shivers down the back of an active volcano. PSSH! Another fixture broke, expanding the abyssal darkness. She raised one of her hooves, ichor dripping off the red covered limb as she pointed at Spike, her hoof dripping blood back into the lake below. "Why did you do it, Spike? I thought we were friends," Twilight said flatly. "Family even."

Spike's heart skipped a beat. He couldn't move. "I-I... I didn't want to. I couldn't control myself," A tear rolled down Spike's cheek and fell into the red sea below. "I would never hurt you."

Twilight slammed her hoof down heavily onto the floor, splashing the pool of her own blood everywhere. "WHY, SPIKE!!!!"





"Spike! Spike!!" Twilight shouted, yelling his name in hopes that he would return to her from his state of shock. She shook his body vigorously with her hooves but the dragon remained still. Spike's eyes were half-lidded, looking nowhere in particular but forward as he sat lazily in the hall. 

Everything rushed back into reality leaving the dragon dazed. "Wha-, huh," Spike blinked and shook his head. He was lost for a moment. A moment of confusion briefly came upon the drake. What had happened? Where was he? He was snapped free from that horrible daydream of sorts by Twilight. Or was it a nightmare? Daymare? The thought left him as soon as it had appeared, cataloged for later as it was definitely not the appropriate time for those thoughts. Spike looked down at Twilight, her eyes wide and her body shaking slightly in panic. "What's going on, Twilight?"

Tears had trailed downed Twilight's face leaving lines on her face that glistened and shined in the light. Her eyes staring into Spike's own. "What happened? You just stopped halfway down the hall and started hyperventilating," Twilight was inspecting every inch of his being as she looked for anything out of the ordinary with Spike's body. "A-are, you alright, Spike?"

Spike internally panicked. Twilight couldn't know. She couldn't discover that his returning fear of that one, single, most-horrible moment in his life had been haunting him. Unfortunately, in his frightened state Spike slipped up. In a moment of weakness he lied to Twilight without thinking. His mouth on auto-pilot, unable to process his words before speaking. "N-nothing. I'm fine, Twilight. I just spaced out for a moment is all," Spike horribly lied. He tried to butter-up his lie with a small grin. But, it was too late. His words had spewn out like bile and Twilight was too smart a pony to let that bold lie slip out of her hooves. And Spike was inwardly cursing at himself. 

Twilight's eyes narrowed as she gave Spike a glare filled with her betrayal and ire. Not many things truly got under her hide. But lying was Absolutely one of them. Especially a sorry attempt for a lie as he had given. "Spike Wyverian Drake," Twilight said flatly and sternly, stomping her hoof on the floor for extra emphasis on her anger. "You do not lie to me," Twilight sniffled. "Not when it is about something as serious as this. And especially when you lie about it to my face!" Twilight shouted at Spike. "Do you know how frightened I was?" Twilight paused and stared at Spike, awaiting a response from the drake who chose to remain silent under her interrogation. "Do you know how scared I was trying to help you? How deep it wounds me when you get hurt? This is the complete opposite of 'nothing', Spike. If I have to pry information from, Luna, just to understand what is possibly wrong with you... I will not hesitate. She seems to be the pony you want to confide in," Twilight punctuated her frustration with a hard shove of her hoof against his scale-plated chest before she turned away from him and continued walking. 

Shame weighed heavily on Spike. His head almost dragged against the floor where it lay as low to the earth as his guilt would allow. Regret. Humiliation. Ever the more sorrow.  He never wanted her to know his ever restless fear. Something that was beyond his control. And so here Spike walks to the classroom alongside Twilight, his pride having gotten between him and friendship and in doing so has left them both in near deafening silence. Nothing but the clicking of claws and clopping of hooves against the floor echoed in the hall. "I... I'm sorry, Twilight." Spike may be an adult now, but the one thing Spike can't stand is when Twilight is upset with him. Disappointed even.

A deep sigh escaped Twilight and her wings visibly shook as they try to lay limply against her body. "I'm sorry, Spike. I'm just upset that you lied to me. 'Me' of all ponies. We used to be so close growing up, Spike. I just wish you would talk to me," A sniffle escaped Twilight as she continued to walk. "L-like you used to... I want to be able to help you, Spike. I couldn't stand you getting hurt because you want to be stubborn."

Pausing in thought, Spike thought to himself for a brief moment. And then the dragon came to a conclusion. "Okay," Spike answered," No longer would Spike cower under the tyranny of fear and allow it to dictate his feelings and wall off those he regarded deeply. Twilight Sparkle, his sister and closest friend, was at the very top of that list. "After dinner we'll talk, Twilight."

Spike couldn't see Twilight's face, she was still walking ahead of him, but he could feel her smile grow. "Thank you, Spike. I know I haven't been much of a sister lately," Twilight wilted slightly at her admittance. "Or even a friend for that matter. I shouldn't have let my duties as a princess get in the way of helping my closest friends. I hope that after this we can try and get our relationship back together," Twilight sniffled. "I miss you, Spike. I have missed you so very much."

Twilight's smile was always infectious. Spike could do nothing as the affliction spread upon his own muzzle. "I missed you too, Twilight."

A few more halls of silence later and finally they had reached their destination. A little further down the hall were two guards posted at the entrance of the classroom clothed in the golden armor of Celestia's Royal Guard. A stallion with a white coat was posted to the left of the door alongside a mare with a silver-gray coat posted on the opposite side. The both of them stood attention, standing armed and ready for anything to happen at a moments notice. And their gazes were unbreakable and stern. 

"Well," Twilight began, turning around to face her former assistant. "This is where we part ways for now. Unfortunately I still have duties to uphold here in Canterlot," Twilight sighed heavily. "Will I still see you later this evening, Spike?"

"Don't worry," Spike assured Twilight. So many things must be going through that pony's head. And yet, Twilight was still worried. Her eyes still heavy with concern for a friend. "You'll see me at dinner, Twilight. I promise." Spike scratched the surface of his scales in an 'X' over his chest using specifically his middle claw. And thus a pledge was made by Spike the Dragon. It was a dragon's way to promise something in a meaning similar to a 'Pinkie Promise'. And now Spike had pledge he is to now keep as his 'Dragon's Code' demands. 

Twilight nodded and smiled, finding his promise satisfactory and truly meant. "I'll check my schedule and I'll see if I can't free up any space to free up time for you tomorrow as well,"  With her final words for the moment spoken she left Spike to his own devices and walked away with the two guards in tow. Occasionally Twilight looked back to see if Spike was still there. Spike could only imagine the list of duties she delayed by staying with him this morning. Twilight would definitely have to play a little catch-up with her schedule. There is never any rest for the weary it seemed. 

As the dragon was so lost in his thoughts as he watched his sister walk away he didn't hear the sound of heavy hoofsteps approaching from behind him. "Dragon," A deep and thick voice spoke from behind Spike. The voice spoke as regal as a sovereign but grasped, no, demanded your attention as that of tyrant. Spike knew all to well whom owned the voice. For the soul from whom it belonged to had forever left a dark mark in the souls of others in the past.

"Sombra," Spike said apathetically as he turned around to look at the former king of the Crystal Empire. The once proclaimed "King of All Monsters". Sombra was huge by normal pony standards. The umbral unicorn was a few inches or so taller than Rockhoof, one of the Pillars of Equestria, and was just a hooful of inches shorter than Princess Celestia. His ashen gray body had muscle that contradicted what unicorns were generally known for. He wore a maroon red suit jacket that made him look professional despite his ominous appearance. Though it did have a white trim dotted with black spots that made his attire resemble his old regal cape. His flanks bare and without a cutie mark. A red curved horn sat upon his head somewhat covered by his long black mane that flowed down his neck. And lastly, also definitely noticeable, were his piercing crimson eyes that drew him to the center of anypony's attention.

The two glared at each other for a moment. It was a battle of will. One will falter while the other will gain personal bragging rights later on and the glory that comes with victory. Spike was trying to do his best impersonation of Tempest's 'I Can And Will Kill You' glare. While adding onto the apathetic, emotionless tone he was aiming for it didn't have quite the same punch when he tried copying the former villain. Perhaps he had to be a mare to get it just right; that feminine equine touch he so obviously lacks. He'll need to speak with Tempest on the matter later. 

"You still need practice, Drake. You may be intimidating to the average pony but not to anyone with any respectable willpower." 

Spiked sighed in defeat. Sombra always had these little "tests" with him before they talked. His reasoning for them always changed and eventually they just did it out of habit. "Nice to see you too, Sombra. Is everything going well?"

Sombra grunted. "It has it highs and lows, young drake. Of the most concerning is the abrupt return of my umbral nature. That's still at the top of the agenda to correct," Sombra gestured to himself. "The workings of Celestia and Luna, to my dismay, have gone fairly undone. I look as I once did when I was consumed with the blood-lust of hate and deceit. I am most thankful it hasn't worsened any further than this in the past few months. I have noticed I feel more...-"  Sombra paused for a brief moment searching for the word that best describes his feeling. "-Apathetic. Fortune have it that, Radiant Hope is walking along side me down this haggard road," As Sombra talked Spike could see his sharp fanged canines briefly between each word, reminding him once again how terrifying Sombra can appear to be to others. "What of you, Spike? How are you fairing this day?" Sombra asked. His tone was as neutral as his expression was apathetic, much like that of Maud Pie. 

Spike scratched his neck. It was a nervous tic he was never going to break. "Heh," Spike breathed. "It's... Well it could be worse. But other than an awkward conversation I'm going to have this evening, all is good."

Sombra grinned ever so slightly. "That is pleasant to hear," Covering his mouth with a hoof, Sombra faux coughed. "I did happen to catch a shred of that earlier if you,-" Sombra gestured towards Spike, twirling his hoof trying to get the dragon to catch on  "-want to discuss..."

"Oh! No!" Spike said, frantically shaking his head. "No, no, no, no. I'm fine," Spike breathed, calming himself down. The last thing he needed was a heart to heart chat with Sombra. "Thank you though."

"Of course," Sombra replied, his tone understanding. 

He had gotten to know Sombra fairly well over the past few years. He was in no way, shape or form one of his best friends in the world. But he was a great friend nonetheless. Sombra and Radiant Heart would visit the castle from time to time as they traveled to recover the stone shards of Princess Amore, the previous ruler of the Crystal Empire that Sombra, in a fit of rage, turned to stone and shattered. In his anger Sombra scattered the pieces of Princess Amore across Equestria for her betrayal against him, having held knowledge of his origins from him. With her choice of actions Sombra suffered incredible pain every year on the day of the Crystal Faire, the most love filled day for crystal ponies, and left him to fend for himself. She saw the good in Sombra, even when she was turned to stone did she trust in him. And thus she fell at his hooves due to her own inaction. Sombra's actions may have been awful, horrendous even, but his hate towards Princess Amore was absolutely justifiable. At least Spike thought so. Sombra overtime has forgiven Amore for what she did, believing that the mare only had the best intentions at heart.

Slowly, they rebuilt the petrified Amore in Canterlot where Celestia and Luna could watch over their old friend and await her return. These past few years of gathering and adventuring made the completion of the Princess Amore's statue ever so close. The only piece left remaining was Amore's horn. A single piece that defines any unicorn. But, there was one small detail regarding the piece's whereabouts. 

Spike had been silent. His thoughts turned to Sombra and a single question came forward. "You haven't told any of them yet have you?" 

Sombra closed his eyes and breathed deeply. "I have not," His eyes opened but remained downcast. "I just need more time." Sombra assured but his voice had an uncertainty within.

"They're going to discover that you have the piece eventually, Sombra. You can't keep this up forever." Spike said to

Slam! The sound of Sombra's hoof impacting the hard floor echoed throughout the vicinity. "I will for as long as I have to!" Sombra raged. Once just crimson, his eyes began to glow sickeningly green with dark magic as he stared daggers at Spike. An abrupt wave of fury had overcame Sombra and before the unicorn could realize it he had caused his friend Spike to assume a defensive posture. The wave of anger receded and the abyssal magic that once tainted his eyes had vanished. His gaze never left his friend. And with eyes that once showed unbridled fury that stared with narrow, threatening eyes had become panicked and fearful as they widened. "I-I... I apologize, Spike," Sombra stammered. Anxiety and fear clouding his thoughts in despair as his body began to tremble and shake. "I. I don't know... what came over me. I-"

"Sombra," Spike spoke sternly before placing his claws on the stallion's shoulders. "Calm down. It's okay. Just take it easy," Spike said slowly and as calmly as possible to try and soothe Sombra from what he could only deduce to be an anxiety attack. Fear was ever present in Sombra's eyes and his hear was beating faster than any Wonderbolt he could think of.  "I need you to try and relax. Deep breaths. In," Spike inhaled slowly, his plated chest rising with the intake of air. At the peak of his intake Spike began to exhale slowly. "And out."

Sombra did as instructed and began to breathe deeply in an attempt to calm himself. After the ninth breath he had finally broke from whatever was ailing him earlier, though a scowl came upon his face. "I apologize for having shared that dreadful moment of weakness with you," Sombra removed Spike's claws from his person. "A rare side effect of the princesses' spell clashing with the natural dark wards of my umbrum nature." 

"I guess there wasn't a work around they could figure out?"

The dark unicorn grunted in response and rolled his eyes. "No. Fortune be in the fact that it only occurs once every few weeks," Sombra's scowl left him but he was clearly still agitated over what had previously happened. "And if a slight affliction of timidity and weakness for a mere moment is my payment for staying in this Realm of Light with my, Hope, then I shall bare it willingly." Sombra stood tall. A mere ailment wouldn't hold the former King of All Monsters back. Pride and determination swelled within Sombra. 
Spike let a smile grace his lips. "I am glad you won't let something such as this slow you down," Spike chuckled. "There must be some important crystal pony in your life to drive you forward."

Sombra's smile returned and his eyes shifted to a nearby window. He watched the sun shine over on the castle walls as clouds blew in the distance, and in the middle of it all was a butterfly whom's wings glinted of violet and blue in the sunlight. "I have my dear, sweet, Radiant Hope to thank for that. She has been nothing but a heavensend to me. Not to mention my new companion, Fizzlepop has helped to ease my mind. She is such a talented and strong young mare," Sombra's smile faltered and a dark scowl took root. "The Storm King is lucky he spends his leisure petrified in the deepest depths of Tartarus. His transgressions against, Fizzlepop, would have been judged upon the full potency of my ire."

"You really care for, Tempest, don't you?"

Sombra looked everywhere that wasn't at the drake before him; the floor was of particular interest. "I also do not wish to proceed on yet another uncomfortable conversation this day. I will share my story of, Fizzlepop with you another time," His  "Just know that, Fizzlepop is not held in my heart in the same regard as, Hope. Hope is my better-half and nopony can take her place."

Deciding not to ask any further questions on what was obviously a complicated situation for Sombra, Spike thought it best to try and move the conversation forward. "I believe you. Whenever you're ready, I'll be here."

"I thank you, Spike. At any rate," Sombra paused. The dark unicorn smoothed out his suit, flattening any creases that may have sprung up from moving about. "Let us get to business. There is a matter I must discuss with you regarding today's class. Cadenza has requested that I postpone my class so that she may speak with you. After a heated debate to have my class postponed, and a little bribery, I obliged and we moved our class date to next week."

Cadence cancelled today's class? That's unusual for Cadence to generally cancel anything. She is very adept at working her way around another pony's schedule. Something serious must've came up. But Spike had no idea what in Equestria the Princess of Love would want to discuss with him. Puzzling indeed. "Princess Cadence wouldn't by any chance have mentioned to you what she wanted to talk about?" Spiked asked quizzically, tip-tapping his right clawed fingers. It was a nervous habit Spike had since he was younger. 

Sombra shook his head. "She mentioned nothing more than it being a private matter between the two of you and that she would meet with you at her room here in Canterlot. Cadenza should be there in a few moments, if not there already. I met you here simply to inform you of the matter at hoof, personally. The students have already received a letter regarding the change and have decided to use the time to relax and prepare. I, myself, am going to use this moment to spend some time with my darling gemstone. Perhaps even take her out to a nice lunch."

Now that it was mentioned, Spike hadn't actually eaten anything yet and Lunch sounded fantastic. After his talk with Cadence maybe the two of them can grab some food. "I bet she would love that, Sombra. I'll just see you all here next week. Tell, Radiant Hope I said 'Hello'."

A chuckle escaped Sombra. "I will inform her of your greeting. By chance, are we also still having our game of Ogres and Oubliettes this weekend?" Asked Sombra.

Spike grinned from ear to ear and his tail involuntarily swayed left and right in excitement. "Of course! We still have to slay the Wyrm of the Frozen Everglade afterall." 

"Indeed we do, Spike. Indeed we do."





Sombra and Spike continued to chat for roughly another half hour before Sombra said his farewells and left to find his love, Radiant Hope. In his guilt, Sombra agreed to tell Hope and Spike his reasons for withholding a piece of Amore from everypony tomorrow. Now alone and with a new item on the agenda Spike headed to one of the the eastern wings of the castle to his sister-in-law's room. It took a moment of trekking through the halls of the castle, and his memories, for Spike to reach where Princess Cadence's room was. She only uses the room while she's in Canterlot, on business or otherwise. He had only been to her Canterlot quarters on a single occasion a while back. If he recalled it was to drop something off for Shining Armor when Shining and Cadence were visiting for an event of some sort. Or maybe it was part of a Honeymoon thing? Maybe it wasn't even for Shining, but Gleaming Shield, his mare counterpart he used for 'shenanigans of the flesh'. Gleaming was always an enjoyable person to talk to. Shining always seemed to loosen up more as a mare. Twilight always loved her occasional sister time. Anyway, whatever the case may be, it was still before Spike's, slightly, enhanced draconic memory came into place. So, unfortunately it was lost to the void as to what the subject of said visits were.

The entrance to Princess Cadence's Canterlot room was a set of tall wooden double doors just tall enough to let him, and Celestia presumably, inside. The doors themselves were pink, because of course they were, and they were bordered with gold. A crystal heart was carved into the doors as well as several different Crystal Empire insignias. On either side of the doors, mounted on the wall, were a crystal sconce that shimmered in the light of the hall. Both were unlit of course because it was still daylight out but were still beautiful none the less and helped others identify which room was his sister-in-law's.

Spike sat on his haunches and gave the right door a quick set of knocks with his knuckles. He didn't even blink before the door began to open, a blue ethereal aura having encompassed both doors and slowly forced them to move apart. As the doors further opened Spike could see Cadence getting off of a couch further into the room. The light rose colored alicorn and trotted towards him and the door. "Spike!", Cadence shouted gleefully, her curly violet and pink mane bobbed as she made her way over to him. "I'm glad you came by! Come in and give your sister-in-law a hug!" Cadence shouted.

Spike gave Cadence a smile and walked into the room, the smell of various perfumes and incense filled the room invading his senses and escaping through the now open door that was trapping them inside. At times having an apex predatory sense of smell was a great, if not fantastic, tool... This, however, was not one of those times. Spike coughed a bit as his senses protested the amount of fragrance in the air. The accursed cloud was thick enough he could taste the chemicals in the back of his throat. But even the mightiest of dragons could not be deterred form the goal at hand. A comforting and refreshing familial embrace.

"It's so good to see you, Spike," Cadence patted a hoof on Spike's back. Her smile faltered for a moment, unbeknownst to Spike, when she saw the soft patches in his scales where his wings used to be. "I'm sorry I didn't get to see you for very long at your twenty-third birthday party, Spike. Duty calls, unfortunately."

Gently, Spike unwrapped his arms around Cadence to look down at the a pink alicorn. "It's okay, Cadey. I know all of you have been absolutely busy," He chuckled awkwardly. "Me taking some time off isn't real-"

A pink hoof was abruptly pressed against Spike's muzzle before he could say anything further. Cadence had silenced him and was shaking her head in disagreement. "No, Spike. I know what you were going to say. You deserve some time off for having to play secretary, among many other things, for us. Besides...," Cadence smugly grinned. "You'll want to enjoy this break while you have the opportunity," Cadence motioned for to Spike bring his head closer to hers. "I can't say a whole lot. Just know we have something for you after tonight's dinner," whispered Cadence.

The mere mention of a surprise elated Spike. How could anyone not enjoy a present wrapped in the love of those that care for you and the mystery of the unknown that stemmed from the gift itself? Especially if you don't generally get gifts anymore because of the horrible racial aspect of greed growth. Spike's excitement unfortunately winded down quickly upon the realization that Cadence had said he would be gifted something after dinner.

"'After' dinner?" questioned Spike, uncertainty in his voice. "As in dinner tonight? With Celestia, Luna and everypony else?"

Raising an eyebrow and nodding slowly Cadence looked at Spike as if the dragon's scales suddenly swapped color pallets. "Umm... Yeah? That's what I said. 'To-night's' dinner. You know. The one we prepared and organized for more than a week ahead of time to ensure everypony can attend. Tonight."

Fate was cruel and unforgiving this day for Spike. Why was everything being planned this evening? He had a report to give Luna regarding his dreams and dayterrors, Twilight deserved an explanation on a few things and now there was a surprise awaiting him and they were all being scheduled after tonight's feast in the honor of him, Spike the Dragon of Equestria. How would this work? What would Twilight think of him if she found out he was still seeing images of that ill fated day? Spike's mind spiraled and swirled into a chaotic mess as he struggled with deciding what to deal with first and with whom and how they would even possibly handle-

"Spike!" Cadence half-yelled while chuckling at the dragon before her. Spike jumped in surprise and looked back at Cadence after having been "It's okay. Relax. You used to complain about, Twilight overreacting," Cadence giggled behind her hoof. "You are more like her than you would ever care to admit, Mr. Brave and Glorious," Cadence teased, a small smirk on her face.

Spike blinked. "What do you mean, overreavt-" A pink hood pressed against his muzzle once again. It most likely wouldn't be the last  time his sister-in-law's hoof found its way to his muzzle either.

"I already talked to, Twilight. She came by earlier and told me what happened. It's okay, Spike," Cadenc'e smile faltered slightly as the alicorn tried to keep her smile but an unpleasantness began to take hold. Ultimately Cadence sighed and set her hoof back down and onto the floor. "I know you once met a terrible fate, Spike. But, Twilight deserves the truth and the longer you keep it from her the more hurt she'll end up being hurt in the end. I know you have the best intentions at heart," Spike turned his head so he was no longer looking at Cadence. "But please talk to her. For me," Pleaded Cadence. The mare reached over grabbing Spike's chin with her hoof and turned him towards her, their eyes meeting. Pools of emerald stared into her own violet eyes. Cadence saw fear and worry within the dragon. She saw how haunted he was by his past and just how much it pained and conflicted him to keep his agony away from Twilight. So in return she stared back with love and kindness. "And for her, silly dragon," Cadence finished with a soft, caring smile.

Infectious was Cadence's smile as Spike soon found himself smiling in turn. As Spike looked into the soft and gentle gaze of the Princess of Love, he no longer felt uncertain about telling Twilight of his torturous dreams. His mind calmed and his heart eased. With Cadence's help Spike had finally come to his senses and no longer were negative emotions guiding his thoughts. "Okay. I will. Well, I did already promise her I would. But at least I have nothing to be afraid of anymore."

Spike felt hooves wrap around him as Cadence hugged him once more. "Thank you. You've helped and looked after us so it is only fair that I do the same in return. But how about we forget all this for a moment -," Cadence looked up at Spike and pointed towards the door behind Spike. "- and go grab us some food, huh?" Cadence asked.

Leaning down Spike booped Cadence's nose with his own, like she had done to him when she babysat his sister and him long ago. "Absolutely. You're the best, Cadence."

Cadence grinned smugly. "You bet your purple ass, I am! Now, let's go!" Cadence shouted, pointing a hoof towards the door in an almost heroic pose. "Food awaits!"





Talking with family was also helpful to Spike. He found some solace in being able to confide with those close to him that will always, and forever, love him unconditionally. He felt ever the more conflicted when his emotions, his dark and negative feelings, clouded his love for Twilight. After having spoke with Cadence, Spike was finally able to pierce through the self-inflicted veil of dark that shrouded his heart and mind. Now was the dragon finally prepared to willingly share his wounds with his sister so that they both may heal this wound together. No longer would it fester and infect his heart, clouding his judgement.

Cadence and Spike spent the rest of the day together after their heart to heart moment hours ago. Lunch was had and more talks commenced as they went about Canterlot from store to store simply enjoying another's company. The pair talked of friends, of family and many other things. Music included. Cadence, even though she was family, was one of Spike's greatest friends in this regard. Not only did they actually like similar things but they both enjoyed the greatest of music genres. Metal. And oh did they talk of the glorious resonance of the soul that is metal. 

Metal was not simply just mere noise as those whom never heard the heavy and intense chords of this melodic symphony of aggression would try and tell you. No! The pure sensory overload of anger, among a flurry of other emotions, that boils the blood and kicks up the adrenaline in your system to eleven as it flows through your veins is what defines metal. If you can't feel the beat of the drums and the thumps of the bass then you are in the wrong place.

When Spike was well into his teen years, barely taller than Twilight at the time, he had a very unfortunate day. One of the friends he had made over the years in Ponyville turned out to have just been using him. Denial first went through Spike's mind as he thought nopony could be so cruel as to do such a thing. Spike, with a determination to prove that notion incorrect, confronted the stallion in question on it and to his surprise he had admitted to doing so. Suffice to say their 'friendship' ended then and there. Sadness and anger overcame Spike and in his sorrow he went to seek out somepony to comfort him. Unfortunately Twilight was asleep. The urge to wake up his sister was strong but he pushed passed his want to awaken the alicorn. Not wanting to search Ponyville for ponies that may or may not be awake he chose another option And so in his desperation for comfort he wrote to Cadence. 

Normally Spike didn't write to Cadence, only sending messages and royal missives to her, so when his sister-in-law had received a letter from Spike she found it strange. The letter detailed Spike's day of how horrible and lonesome he currently felt. Cadence replied hastily saying she had a concert she was going to not but a few hours later though she was willing to put it off so the drake would have somepony to be with. Guilt immediately overcame Spike. He never wished to drag Cadence away from something she wanted to do so Spike pleaded his sister-in-law to let him go with her. Twilight had kept an emergency teleport scroll in case of, well, emergencies. Spike would gladly deal with Twilight's wrath later if it meant he wasn't alone anymore that night. Cadence tried to sway Spike from joining her, telling the dragon that it's not like the music he grown accustomed to around Twilight. With his decision laced within a will of iron Cadence reluctantly allowed Spike to accompany her to the concert. And it was one of the greatest experiences of the drake's life. 

Never in Spike's life had he heard such beautiful music before. Music that resonated with his feelings of frustration and grief. Oddly enough, the strange new music quelled his negative emotions. Creatures of many types were around thrashing and banging their heads to the melody the artists provided. It was crass, violent and bad to the bone. The heavy, thunderous roars of instruments vibrated and shook his scales and his very soul with every note and cord. It was as if a demon was screaming. An angel was singing. As if such a sound was the pounding of creation's hammer upon the anvil of time! It was bucking awesome. 

Never had Cadence seen Spike have such wonder in his eyes and fire in his soul than after their concert. Even more so when she bought the dragon a t-shirt of the concert's headliner, which was his favorite. The two of them spent hours after the concert talking and after having gained a newfound bond with Spike, and more importantly somepony else she can enjoy such music with, she had let the drake spend the next week with her before he was to return to Twilight. For that entire week Spike was with her, whenever Cadence wasn't performing any royal duties she would share more music with him. Spike and Cadence soon became far greater friends than the dragon thought possible. She was one of many friends he managed to bond with on his own and that alone made the dragon swell with pride. 

After Cadence and Spike's afternoon of sibling debauchery came to an end the sun had finally set, sadly putting an end to such a wonderful day, as the moon had risen and brought upon a serene nighttime adorned in a plethora of stars. Many hours were spent hitting stores and walking about Canterlot. Spike and Cadence were currently wandering the halls of the castle as the two headed towards the dining hall for the ever so fated dinner. 

"...and that is why, Shiny refuses to attend another concert with me," Cadence finished her retelling of a memory she had with Shining Armor. The couple went to a concert as a birthday present to Cadence. And, well... Things didn't go as planned.

Spike chuckled at the recollection. "It's hard not to blame the dude. Getting hoofed in the face by a drunk buffalo, not once, but twice, would probably deter me from going to any more concerts too. Or at least not get tickets near the mosh pit."

Cadence sighed and rolled her eyes. "I would've warned, Shiny ahead of time if I had known the tickets he purchased were that close to the stage. Though I suppose I can't blame my husband either. Besides," Cadence smirked and bumped her flank against Spike's thigh doing the best hip bump possible with their size difference. "I have you to go with me now, Spike. You've loved every single concert we've ever gone to. I don't think you realize how happy I was to have someone to go with once again," Cadence beamed. "It's been wonderful to know you on a level other than 'Spike, the Brave and Glorious' and 'the dragon that works for my sister-in-law'."

Spike smirked. "And I can say the same about you, Miss Crystal Princess," 

A mere few feet away stood the pale orchid doors to the dining hall. With the door so close all one had to do was push the doors open and they were practically inside the hall. Though to Cadence's surprise Spike had stopped just before the door, He stood there staring at the door and it's many intricacies consisting of scratches from wear and tear or anything else. 

Cadence noticed Spike was visibly wilting, his fins drooping and his form beginning to slouch. "Still having some anxiety?" Cadence asked calmly.

Spike nodded, though he couldn't hide this uneasy feeling he had. "A little bit. It's going to be tough having to bare down on, Twilight about my nightmares. I just hate making her worry over me, let alone making her upset-" Spike broke his eye contact with the door and turned to Cadence "- y'know?" 

Twilight and Spike were so alike, Cadence thought. Fretting over the smallest or simplest things. "It's okay to be nervous, Spike. As long as you keep your cool it'll all work out just fine," Cadence assured before draping a feathery wing over Spike, or as much of Spike she can reach. "Twilight may be the biggest worrywart we know, but it's always with good intentions at heart. Though I do have a theory that helping raise and take care of you gave her maternal instinct a rather early jump-start."

A small chuckle escaped Spike. He appeared visibly brighter than he had a moment ago. "To be honest, I wouldn't doubt if that turned out to be the case. She used to drown me in affection whenever she had the chance."

"Which only further proves my theory. More importantly it shows that she loves you very much and that you need to stop worrying as much as you've been," Cadence leaned over and gave the dragon a loving peck on his cheek. "She loves you more than anything this world could possibly give her." 

A moment of calm and a deep breath later and Spike was ready to face whatever destiny had laid out for him. Whether it was favorable or unpleasant, he'll persevere. Twilight is worth it. "I think I'm as ready as I'll ever be, Cadence," said Spike.

"Just keep in mind that we, your friends and family, will always be here for you through thick and thin. So, no matter what happens to you beyond this door, rest assured we will be behind you all the way," Cadence spoke softly and warmly.

Spike took a deep breath and looked at the door. "Okay."