Spike has always dreamed of becoming a badass warrior that fights monsters and saves princesses... but can he really do it?
Spike has always dreamed about becoming a knight... but when he finally gets this chance will he burn out from all the hard work and training? Can he overcome the trials ahead in his journey to become the greatest knight in all of Equestria? Will he get actual advice from others? Is he even brave enough to be a warrior? The drawing is by Ricardo Frantz.
So what better way than becoming a Knight? Spike thought.
What he didn't realize was how difficult that would be.
Spike was snapped out of his daydream by Twilight.
"Spike! Have you organized the books like I've told you?" She asked.
"Yes."
"And doubled checked the checklist?!"
"Yeah."
"That's a relief."
"I want everything to be perfect for the princess's arrival."
"Why is the princess coming over anyway?" Spike asked.
"She wants to implement a system of friendship essays and I'm not ready!" Twilight yelled in a panic.
"Jeez Twi, you think you would tell the princess to lay off the work by now. I mean you're already a princess!" Spike said bluntly.
"I know Spike, but maybe this is one big test to see if I'm ready for more responsibility." Twilight said slightly frustrated.
"Well, I'll help you. I always have." Spike said not wanting to argue.
"Thanks Spike for always being there for me. I couldn't have become who I am today without your help." Twilight said as she hugged Spike.
"Thanks Twi, It's been awesome helping you so it's no big deal." Spike said shrugging off the praise.
"Oh how so?" Twilight asked curiously.
"I went back to my own kind, we fought a evil king, we defended a empire and we were almost destroyed by a power hungry red embodiment of darkness." Spike said, listing off all their recent accomplishments.
"And I get tasty gems to eat." Spike added.
"Haha, I'm glad you enjoyed it so much." Twilight said failing to suppress the giggles.
Spike laughed as well.
Then Spike started to yawn.
"Oh... is someone feeling tired?" Twilight asked.
"I'm not..." Spike said as he tried to stop his yawning.
Spike couldn't stop it.
"Don't worry Spike, you can go to bed, I'll recheck the checklist." Twilight said.
"Are you sure cause-"
"I'm sure, now get some rest." Twilight said smiling.
"Thanks twi, you're the best!" Spike said as he sleepily walked up to his room to go to bed.
Spike went to bed.
While Twilight stayed up preparing for Celestia arrival.
The Next Morning.
Spike was woken up by Twilight.
"C'mon Spike, we gotta go greet the princess!" Twilight said.
They ran outside and joined the greeting party.
"My fellow ponies, we are going through a trying time-" Celestia began.
"Oi, just get on with it!" A pony in the crowd cried out.
"Ahem, we are going through war!" Celestia shouted.
"What the buck?!" The crowd exclaimed.
"Have you heard about this?" One pegasus asked his friends.
"No dude, I didn't even know we were at war."
"Shhh! The princess is talking." Another one said.
"This is a secret war..." Celestia stated.
"Ohhh..." One pony in the crowd said.
"That's why we don't know about it." A unicorn said.
"Why are you keeping secrets from us?" A earth pony asked.
"Hello Princess!" Twilight shouted.
"Hello my faithful student and spike." Celestia said quickly.
"Hi princess." Spike said.
"Anyway, as I was saying... we need to form a army!" Celestia said.
"Yeahhh!" Bulk Biceps shouted.
"No wait, or was that a order of warriors..." Celestia said confused.
"Argh! What a waste of time. Let's get outta here..." One pony complained.
Various mumbles of agreement were heard.
"WAIT EVERYPONY!" Celestia shouted.
"Ahh! My fucking ears!" One pony cried out in pain.
"What the fuck did she say?" Another yelled.
"Speak up bitchestia!" One rude unicorn say.
"Everyone, please come back and sit down quietly and listen... or I will cut you." Celestia said in the calmest voice ever.
Surprisingly ever pony complied with that request.
As rude as they were... they knew not to cross the solar princess.
It could land you in a shitstorm.
Or you could wind up dead.
It was their choice really...
"Good!" Celestia said happily.
"We need a order of warriors to defend Equestria."
"Does anypony volunteer?" Celstia asked still smiling.
"Anypony at all?"
"Spike does!" Twilight cried out.
"Twilight what the fu-"
"Would you like to Spike?" Celestia asked.
"Well yeah! I've always wanted to become a knight!" Spike said with enthusiasm.
"Well you're not a pony... but you'll do." Celestia said.
"You'll accept me into your order even thought I'm not a pony?" Spike asked.
"No." Celestia said.
"Aww... there goes my dream." Spike said sadly.
"I'm just fucking with you kid!"
So Celestia tell us why you have such a big change in attitude?
And that language! Aren't you suppose to be a kind and gentle princess?
Well my dear readers.
I Princess Celestia am tired.
I'm tired of protecting Equestria.
You would be tired too if you had to do it for 1000 years.
As for the language... why let's just say we're off camera.
And who wants to be all prim and proper all the time?
Certainly not me.
I like to let loose every once in a millennia.
And who's going to stop me?
No pony! Cause I'm mother bucking Princess Celestia!
Thanks for listening.
Hugs and kisses~
Thank you for your time Celestia.
Now back to the story.
"Of course you can!"
"THIS IS THE BEST DAY OF MY LIFE!" Spike said happily.
"When do I start?!" Spike asked.
"You start now." Celestia said.
"Wait wha-" Spike began.
Celestia had teleported him onto a large hill overlooking a enormous castle surrounded by the mountains. it had small houses on the side.
Spike also saw some bridges connecting one section of the castle to another.
As he peered down into the lower levels, he could see various ponies dressed in armor sparing, chatting, or eat lunching.
It was a stunning view to say the least.
Surrounded by mountains and greenery.
"Where are we?" Spike asked confused.
"We are at my private academy for Solar Knights." Celestia said.
"Whoa..." Spike said in awe.
"But why pick me princess... I don't have any special talents or skills that would make me a great knight." Spike said.
"That's were you are wrong Spike, I believe that you have the tenacity to become a great warrior." Celestia said.
"You just have to prove it to yourself." Celestia said smiling.
"Well princess, if you believe in me. I have no reason to decline." Spike said.
"Excellent choice Spike. I'm glad you chose to stay." Celestia said.
"Let me give you a tour of the academy and your uniform." Celestia said as she motioned for him to follow her.
This turned out to be quite the interesting day. Spike thought as he followed Celestia.
"This room is our weapons room." Celestia said. Spike stared in awe at all the different types of weapons lining the walls. There were crossbows and swords. Staffs and axes. Even daggers and maces. Spike then noticed some glass displays. "Princess Celestia, if you don't mind me asking, what are in those display cases?" Spike asked politely. "Excellent question Spike." Celestia said. "Those display cases house powerful enchanted gems." Celestia explained. "Gems?!..." Spike said trying not to drool. "Yes Spike but don't worry. We have more than enough food to satisfy your hunger." Celestia said with a chuckle. "But I wasn't going to eat them." Spike said. "Of course you weren't going to... you would never." Celestia said failing to contain her laughter. "Princess..." Spike said embarrassed. "Only teasing Spike. Only teasing..." Celestia reassured. "But I digress..." Celestia said. "You will learn to use those gems too. They will help in the battles ahead." Celestia said knowingly. "Battles?!" "I'm gonna have to fight for real?" Spike said slightly sweaty. "Yes Spike, and I'm afraid to say there may be a good chance of you dying out there." Celestia said bluntly. "Dying?!!" Spike exclaimed in panic, sweat pouring out of him. "But do not fret young Spike, if you follow our teachings here. It will prepare you for the trails ahead." "Although, you must remember one important thing when you are out there." Celestia said. "What is it?" Spike asked. "Have faith in your own judgement." Celestia replied. "No amount of teaching can prepare a knight who only relies on book theory." "You must practice! And take action!" Celestia said enthusiastically as she pulled a sword off the wall and swung it downwards. "WAH!" Spike cried out as he was almost struck by the blade. Celestia's cheeks turned read. "Sorry about that Spike, I guess I got a little too excited." Celestia said embarrassed. "And clumsy..." "It was unprofessional." "It's okay Princess, I've still got all my limbs." Spike said with a laugh. "Alright then, let's leave before I accidentally chop when I should have sheathed." Celestia said with worry. "Y-you're only joking right?" Spike asked slightly sweating. "Nope, after what almost happened back in the weapons room I don't want to take any chances." Celestia said. Spike swallowed and followed Celestia nervously. "Up ahead, we have our alchemy room." Celestia said. "Cool..." Spike said as he looked inside. There were various potion making stations, test tubes, and beakers. "What's this do?" Spike said as he reached for a bubbling beaker. "Don't touch that!" Celestia said in a worried voice. "You could have cause a chemical meltdown if you weren't careful." "Sorry, I was just curious." Spike said. "Well, there will be more time to experiment with those chemicals, but for now we have to finish the tour." Celestia said. Spike nodded and followed Celestia. "This room is our weapon tech room." Celestia said. "Whoa... that's awesome!" Spike said as he saw scientists debating which weapon design blueprint they would use. "So, I won't use the same weapons over and over again." Spike asked. "Correct, our weapon specialists and scientists are always looking for ways to improve their designs and functions." Celestia said. "C'mon Spike, you'll have more time to explore after the tour." Celestia said as she saw him pressed up against the glass. "Sorry about that, I just can't help but get excited! This is so awesome!" Spike said happily. "I'm glad you're enthusiastic." Celestia said. "I remember that one of our new students didn't share the same amount of joy in coming here." "What happened?" Spike asked curious. "He was a black and red unicorn, called himself raven darkblood moon, something of that sort." Celestia said shuttering. "Anyway, on a brighter note, look! We've arrived at the mess hall!" Celestia announced. Spike's stomach growled. "I see someone's hungry..." Celestia said giggling. "Yup, a growing dragon's gotta eat." Spike said with a big smile. "C'mon let's get something in your stomach..." Celestia said as they sat down to eat some lunch. Spike ordered a big bowl of gems of varying color. While Celestia just ate a simple salad. "Spike, I'm curious as to why you volunteered to become a knight?" Celestia asked nibbling on a leaf. "Well..." Spike said as he swallowed. " I wanna protect others." Spike replied bluntly. "Is that really the reason why?" Celestia asked. "Yeah!" Spike said smiling. How interesting... in all my years this is the first time I've had a student tell me this. Celestia thought. They usually become knights become they wanted some type of fame or glory. Some did it for the bits. Others didn't have a choice in the matter. They were there because of conscription. "Spike are you finished with your meal?" Celestia asked. "Yup!" Spike said. "That was some good grub!" "I'm glad you enjoyed it, shall we continue the tour?" Celestia asked. "Lead the way Princess!" Spike said. "And as you can see, we have our student housing over here." Celestia said as she rounded a corner. "Whoa!" Spike said as he stared at all the designs of the doors. "And if you'll follow me Spike I'll show you to your room." Celestia said as she waited for Spike. Celestia opened the door to a room with a shield surrounded by green flame. The name Spike was carved below the emblem. Spike walked inside and looked around his room. There was a writing desk. A closet. And a medium sized bed. He even saw a bathroom as well. What was unusual was the weapon rack on the side of the wall. "Um... is that suppose to be there?" Spike asked pointing to the weapon rack. "Of course! Where else would you put your training weapons?" Celestia questioned. "Oh... heh heh! Just wondering..." Spike said clearly still confused. "Haha! You're quite the joker Spike!" Celestia said with a smile. " I'm I forgetting something?,,, oh yes! Here is your uniform." Celestia said as she opened up the closet. A plain white shirt, blue pants, brown finger-less gloves greeted him. "Heh... this is awesome." Spike said trying not to said disappointed. "Great! Welcome to the academy Spike!" Celestia said with a big smile. "I'm glad you've chose to stay with us." "Thank you Princess." Spike said. "If you'll excuse me, I have some princess duties to attend to." Celestia said as she excused herself. "Wait princess! What about classes or training?! Where do I go?!!" Spike asked. "Check you schedule! It will have all the information and times there!" Celestia said as she hurried off. Spike took a look at the schedule. Spike A. Sparkle DOB: 7/10/1845 ID#: A058948 Classes: Instructor: Location: Weapons. A study of practice and theory. Gray D. Steel Courtyard Magic Theory 101 Twilight A. Sparkle Science Building D-32 Sparring. Spit T. Fire GYM Chivalry Studies. Luna P. Comet English Building A-14 Dragon Fighting Tactics and Theory. Flutter L. Shy Courtyard Battle Tactics. Tirek O. Lord Courtyard Social Etiquette Rarity T. Diamond English Building A-18
Spike swung his sword at Mr. Steel as hard as he could.
However, halfway through the swing Mr. Steel pulled out a sword of his own and blocked it.
Mr. Steel's sword managed to hold back Spike's.
Spike and Mr. Steel both held their ground neither giving up.
Until Mr. Steel started swinging his sword left for sideways strikes.
Spike held up his sword trying to block his Mr. Steel's strikes.
At first he was succeeding, until Mr. Steel decided to use his normal strength.
Spike almost managed to absorb the force of the blow.
But he loot his footing as Mr. Steel kept up his relentless assault.
Mr. Steel took this opportunity to do a leg sweep.
Spike fell to the ground after that.
Mr. Steel offered him a hand.
Spike accepted it.
"Good work today son! You've learned how to attack... we'll work on blocking with a weapon the next time."
Spike watched as his other classmates went up there and tried to land a single hit on Mr. Steel, only to be met with similar results.
Although Spike noticed that one particular unicorn was doing well.
Mr. Steel was impressed.
This unicorn looked familiar though.
The red and yellowish hair.
Those feminine curves.
And that sun cutie mark.
Spike was pondering whether or not he should over there and talk to her.
That thought was interrupted by Mr. Steel dismissing the class.
Alright next is potion class... Spike said to himself as he looked at his map.
After asking for directions multiple times, Spike finally managed to find his potion making class.
Spike walked in and saw Twilight working on some equation on the board.
"Hey Twilight some dragon wants to see you!" Spike yelled.
"That's impossible there's no dragon but-"
"Spike!" Twilight cried out happily.
"It's so good to see you again!" Twilight said as she bear hugged Spike.
"It's good- to see you too Twilight." Spike said trying to get air into his lungs.
"Oops Sorry!" Twilight said slightly embarrassed that she almost suffocated her former assistant to death.
"How have things been going with Applejack?" Twilight asked.
"Oh pretty good, her family was preparing for sell some Apple Cider before I left."
"I'm glad they offered to take me in when you got all caught up in your princess duties."
"Yeah, I'll have to thank Applejack when I get back to Ponyville."
"Twilight, if you don't mind me asking, where are we in Equestria?" Spike asked curiously.
"Ahh! So the princess never told you?!" Twilight asked shocked.
"No, she didn't."
"Well Spike even I don't know."
"The princess has kept this academy's location top secret for fear of changeling attacks."
"They're still around?!" Spike asked nervously.
"Well Spike, the princess can't be too careful. changeling spies could be anywhere."
Just then, Twilight was interrupted.
"Hello Twilight." Sunset said as she entered the room.
"Sunset Shimmer?"
"How have you been?" Twilight asked happily.
"How have I been?" Sunset repeated in a low voice.
"HOW HAVE I BEEN?!" Sunset said her volume increasing with each word.
"I've... actually been doing pretty well." Sunset said with a smile.
"How about yourself?"
"Oh! That's wonderful Sunset!"
"We have so much to catch up on!"
Spike just looked on, blatantly confused by how Sunset could go from angry to happy in a span of a few minutes.
Isn't she at least a little upset about how we almost destroyed her with magic?? Spike thought as his confusion grew.
Guess not. Spike said to himself as he watched the two chat away like old friends.
"Oh. Class is about to start." Twilight said as she organized her cluttered desk.
"I'll talk to you later then Twilight." Sunset said as she walked over to Spike.
Spike couldn't help but notice that she swung her hips quite often.
"Hey you're Spike right?" Sunset said with a smile as she approached Spike.
"Yeah." Spike said not looking up from his book.
"What book are you reading?" Sunset asked. Her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
"The Old Pony and the Sea." Spike said still trying to ignore her.
Spike didn't do this to be mean.
He just didn't really trust her that well after what had happened in the mirror world.
Spike sighed and looked up at Sunset.
"Listen I'm going to make this short. I don't like you. I don't trust you. Please go away." Spike said bluntly.
"Spike... I understand if you don't trust me or even like me. But please give me a chance to prove that I've changed." Sunset said, her eyes brimming with tears.
This surprised Spike.
What knew the queen butterface could feel? Spike thought as he tried to decide if she was lying.
No, this is just another trick to gain my trust, then when the time is right. she will betray me. Spike concluded.
Spike looked at Sunset and angrily said three simple words.
"Go away bitch." Spike said in a low voice.
Sunset look of sadness turned into a look of shock.
Then pain.
And finally morphed into a dejected look of sad acceptance.
"Ok Spike... I'll leave you alone." Sunset quietly said as she galloped out of the classroom quietly crying.
"SPIKE!" Twilight said shocked.
"What the hell was that for?!"
"She was only trying to become your friend and get rid of bad blood." Twilight said a scowl.
"Twilight! What if she hasn't changed?! what if it's all a trick to gain our trust?!" Spike argued.
"Spike..." Twilight said as she wrapped a wing around him.
"Sometimes, we have to accept that others have changed for the better, even if they never did."
"But why?!!" Spike asked with confusion.
"Because that's part of being a good friend to somepony who needs it." Twilight stated.
"Oh damn... you're right Twilight." Spike said with realization.
"Wait Sunset! Come back!" Spike said as he started running after her.
"No!" Sunset said as she turned a corner.
"Sunset! I just wanna apologize!" Spike yelled out as he almost lost sight of her as she made turned right.
"You wanna apologize?" Sunset asked as she cutely poked her head out to look at him.
Her big lime green eyes stared back into his pale green ones.
Ok, that kinda adorable... Spike thought in a slight daze.
Spike shook his head violently to clear his head of that thought.
He then cleared his throat and began.
"Sunset, I'm sorry for calling you a bitch." Spike said anxiously waiting for her response.
"You really mean that?" Sunset said, her eyes starting to water.
"Whoa, don't cry!" Spike said trying to calm her down.
"No Spike." Sunset said with a giggle as she wiped away some tears.
"I'm just so happy someone actually apologized for hurting me."
"My past wasn't exactly all sunshine and rainbows. As you've clearly seen." Sunset said with a sad look in her eyes.
"Yeah... there was that one point where you turned into a demon and tried to come back to take over Equestria. " Spike said rather nonchalantly.
"Yup. I still feel bad about almost taking over Equestria." Sunset said looking even sadder.
"But it's okay Sunset, now that you'll back. You can prove to everyone that you've changed right?" Spike said with a smile.
"You're right Spike." Sunset said, with a small smile.
Sunset then surprised Spike by hugging him.
"Thank you again Spike. For believing in me." Her smile growing even wider.
"You're welcome Sunset." Spike said as he wrapped his arms around her.
After a few minutes they broke the hug.
Spike realized he was late for class.
"Sorry Sunset but I gotta go!" Spike said quickly as he ran to Twilight's class.
"I'll talk to you later!" Spike said before he fully went into the classroom.
"Okay Spike. See you later." Sunset said as she continued to trot down the hallway.
Spike entered the classroom.
"Sorry I'm late Twi." Spike said embarrassed.
"It's okay Spike, just take a seat." Twilight said.
Twilight began her lecture.
"Magic is a force that surrounds us all."
"Whether you are pegasi, unicorn, or earth pony does not matter."
"The pegasi use their innate magic to control the weather."
"The unicorns channel magic through their horns."
"And the earth pony use their magic to increase their strength and to help the crops grow."
Twilight then paused.
"Can anypony tell me about dragon magic?"
The students in her class looked around confused.
Some shrugged while others talked amongst themselves.
Comments like
"Dragon magic? I've never heard of such a thing."
And
"I didn't even know dragons had magic."
Were heard by everypony in the class.
Twilight interrupted the class with a polite cough.
"Sorry to interrupt your discussions but you are all wrong."
The students became silent as they listened with interest.
"Dragon magic does exist."
Twilight then drew a dragon on the board.
She drew a circle around the chest area.
"It comes from their emotions."
"When a dragon is angry. The magic swells up inside of them and transforms them."
"They become bigger, stronger, and faster."
"Sometimes the magic is so potent that the dragon loses control of themselves and react on instinct."
"Although, it would take something traumatic to happen in order for that to occur."
"So be careful when trying to fend off a dragon."
"However, magic researchers have said that there could be other possible ways a dragon may use that magic."
"But one mistake and it's the end of the road."
"SO BE CAREFUL!" Twilight said loudly.
"Understood?" Twilight said with a serious expression on her face.
All her students nodded their heads vigorously.
"Good!" Twilight said smiling.
Twilight then announced that class was dismissed.
"Read your book! We'll be having a test soon!" Twilight said before she walked out of the classroom.
Some students left while others stayed and talked for a few minutes.
"Do you think that dragon guy will destroy the academy?" A unicorn said rather worried.
"I dunno, I hope not." A pegasus student said.
"Just don't piss him off enough and we should be fine." A earth pony replied rather bored.
Spike tried hard to ignore them.
Eventually after a few minutes of the students debating whether or not he'll destroy the academy.
Spike decided to leave.
He had just walked a couple feet when he was stopped by Twilight.
Twilight put a hoof on his shoulder and asked him if he was ok.
"Spike, I hope the other students didn't give you a hard time. Knowing how paranoid ponies can be..." Twilight said, muttering the last part in annoyance.
She didn't want a repeat of what happened to Zecora.
"I'm fine Twilight, it's just stupid gossip anyways." Spike said, trying to shrug it off.
"Well Okay then, but if it gets out of hoof tell me, please..." Twilight said putting emphasis on the last word.
"I will Twilight, thanks." Spike said as he continued walking to his next class.
Twilight still wore a look of worry on her face.
Celestia was trotting down the hall when she noticed Twilight.
"Hello Twilight." Celestia said smiling.
"Hi princess..." Twilight said looking rather worried.
"What's wrong Twilight?" Celestia asked, her smile disappearing.
"I'm just worried about Spike. He told me that the other students tease him and spread rumors."
"Twilight, it's okay. I assure you that my sister and I will watch over him." Celestia said putting a hoof around Twilight head.
"Thank you princess... I'm just getting a little too worried aren't I?" Twilight asked.
"Twilight, you've known and cared for Spike for 18 years. I don't blame you when you say you worry about him."
"But what you must remember is that Spike has to face adversity. He can't be protected forever." Celestia said with a small smile.
"I know princess." Twilight said still looking worried.
"C'mon, let's go grab some hayburgers and relax a little." Celestia said smiling.
"That sounds wonderful princess." Twilight said with a smile.
Spike, I know it's tough now.... but hold out and be strong. It will get better... Twilight thought.
Spike walked to his next class and opened the gym doors.
He didn't see too many ponies.
Scanning the room, Spike spotted Sunset and waved to her.
She happily waved back and motioned for Spike to come sit down next to her.
Spike sat down.
"Hi Sunset!" Spike said smiling.
"Hello Spike! How are classes?" Sunset asked.
"It's been good." Spike said.
"Hopefully the princess's lectures aren't too boring right?"
"Nah, she's just going over the basics now."
"That's good, glad you're not getting bogged down in classes yet."
Spike then saw someone who he never expected to see at the Academy.
"Hey Gummy, Is that you?" Spike asked in shock.
"Hello young Spike, It is good to see you again." Gummy said as he lowered his sword.
He then adjusted his top hat and looked at Spike with a slight smile.
"I would be honored if you would spar with me." Gummy said with a rather serious look on his face.
"But I'll give you a fair warning, I don't go easy on anypony..."
Spike jumped down from the bleachers.
"Alright then... It's time to get serious." Spike said as he pulled out his sword and faced Gummy.
" Hello students! I'm Spitfire!" Spitfire said as she came into the gym.
"Ah good! I see two of our students have already decided to spar."
"What are your names?" Spitfire asked with curiosity.
Without missing a beat, both Spike and Gummy told Spitfire their names.
"Alright class! I want everypony to these two, you might learn a few things. And as for you two, begin on my mark."
Spike tensed his arm in anticipation, he looked at Gummy with a bewildered expression.
He tried to figure out what Gummy was planning.
Gummy just glared at him. Ready to strike at any moment.
Oh crap... this really is serious. Spike said as he tried to not appear too nervous.
He swallowed the lump in his throat and waited for Spitfire to give the signal.
Just when Spike had started to get a little time to plan, Spitfire gave the signal to begin.
"Alright. Begin!" Spitfire yelled out.
Gummy dashed towards Spike.
He was so fast that Spike had little time to react when he saw Gummy swing his sword at him.
Spike still managed to barely block it.
"Good... Spike." Gummy said as he kept slashing at Spike.
"You're actually not dying yet!"
Spike tried to reply but he was too busy trying to get Gummy away from him.
He decided to attack.
Spike started to swing his blade at Gummy too.
The clash of metal and heavy breathing of the two fighters were heard.
"Enough games! Let's end this!" Gummy said as he jumped in the air for an aerial blitz.
All Spike could do was try to block this flurry of sword slashes.
Unfortunately Spike lost his footing due to a particularly heavy downwards sword smash.
Spike started to stumble and the crowd gasped.
Sunset started biting her lip.
"You can do it Spike I believe in you!" Sunset yelled, surprising everyone in the room. Especially Spike.
Spike then rolled out of the way as Gummy came down with another leaping slash.
He then sprinted towards Gummy.
Spike raised his sword in preparation to swing when suddenly.
"STOP!" Spitfire yelled.
"That's enough!"
"This is a sparring match not a death battle!"
Spike lowered his sword and put it away. it was dangerously close to Gummy's neck.
Gummy on the other hand got up off the ground, he was getting ready to block Spike's attack.
He sheathed his sword as well.
"Good job everypony!" Spitfire said.
"Come back tomorrow to spar some more!"
Gummy held out his claw.
Spike shook it.
"Good match Spike."
"You too Gummy."
"But mark my words Spike, next time I won't let you win that easily..." Gummy said coldly.
Oh man... if that was him showing mercy. I don't want to see him when he's serious. Spike thought both in shock and anger.
"You're just joking right?" Spike said with a nervous laugh.
He started sweating a little when he saw Gummy just stare back at him.
Gummy then walked away.
Sunset raced down the bleachers to congratulate Spike.
"Good job Spike!" Sunset said happily.
"Thanks Sunset." Spike said with a sheepish smile.
"Well Sunset I gotta go to my next class." Spike said.
"Ok Spike, see you later." Sunset said with a smile as she waved goodbye.
"Bye Sunset." Spike said as he walked out of the gym.
He walked to the English building, noticing the rather interesting castle tower like design.
Spike walked into the class and took a seat.
"Good evening everyone, I am Luna P. Comet. But all of you will refer to me as Princess Luna."
"IS THAT MADE CLEAR?!" Luna said addressing her students with the royal canterlot voice.
"YES PRINCESS LUNA." The class shouted back.
"Good!" Luna said happily.
"Now can anyone explain to me what they think Chivalry is?" Luna asked.
"Anyone at all?"
The class just looked around and shrugged.
"That's okay. Chivalry is a special code for Knights."
"It dictates how they act in social situations, their morals, and even their religion."
"Now knowing that there is a variety of ponies and even a dragon here. I won't force you to follow the religious part."
"But you will learn about the moral and social norms."
Luna then cleared her throat.
"Chivalry is when a knight helps those in need."
"For example, when you see a young mare get harassed. What do you do?"
"You help her out?" A unicorn answered not really sure of his answer.
"Yes! That's correct." Luna said with a smile.
"But what about the social aspects? Well a knight must show manners to whoever he is addressing."
"Whether it be royalty or not."
"Unless it's a monster or dragon or even some supernatural abomination."
"Then you can call it whatever you want."
"But princess, isn't that contradicting the first rule of the social code?" A pegasus asked, clearly confused.
"Shut up! I know these things!" Luna shouted.
"I mean, hush now, who's the teacher here?"
"You are?" The pegasus answered uneasily.
"Yes, I am." Luna said calming down again.
"Alright, class dismissed."
"Already?! But we've barely been here for 5 minutes!" One student complained.
"You'll learn more from actual experience. Trust me on this." Luna said as she waved goodbye to the students and left.
Spike gave a unamused look and continued to his next class.
He walked into the classroom to find Fluttershy there.
"Hi Fluttershy." Spike said smiling as he saw yet another familiar face.
"Oh hello Spike. How have you been?" Fluttershy asked.
"I've been doing well." Spike said.
"That's wonderful Spike. I hope you enjoy my class." Fluttershy said a bit nervous.
"It's taught by Ponyville's residential dragon expert, how could I not enjoy it?" Spike said with a sheepish grin.
"I don't know that much about dragons..." Fluttershy said.
"Heh, you're just being modest."
"No spike, I don't..." Fluttershy started to say, looking rather distressed.
"Sorry about that, I shouldn't have say that." Spike said looking guilty.
"Oh no Spike, it's okay." Fluttershy said smiling.
Then students started coming into the classroom.
"Please take a seat Spike. Class will begin shortly." Fluttershy said motioning to the seats.
"Ok, I'll talk to you later then Fluttershy." Spike said as he went to go sit down.
"hi.. everypony I'm fluttershy and I'll be your teacher today." Fluttershy said quietly.
No one really paid attention to her except for Spike.
The rest of the class continued to talk amongst themselves.
"Quiet down now students and pay attention." Fluttershy said a bit louder.
The students still didn't pay attention.
Finally, Fluttershy sighed and then yelled. "HEY PAY ATTENTION! I'M YOUR TEACHER!"
Everypony turned towards Fluttershy's direction, immediately paying attention to her.
"Good now that I have your attention welcome to dragon fighting class." Fluttershy said reverting back to her quiet self.
"What did she say?" One unicorn said.
"I dunno." Another unicorn said.
"Professor, please speak up." A pegasus say politely.
"Welcome to Dragon Fighting class. I'm your instructor Flutter L Shy. But all of you can call me Miss Shy if you want." Fluttershy said speaking louder.
She then paused for a few minutes before she drew a dragon on the board.
"Can anypony tell me what this is?" Fluttershy asked.
"It looks like a dragon." One pony said.
"That's right."
"Now can anypony tell me how to fight one?" Fluttershy then asked.
"Anypony have any tactics or strategies?"
When she was met with blank stares and shrugs she continued.
"You strike at the one place they are most vulnerable at, the heart..."
"So we stab at their heart and rip it out! right?" One enthusiastic pegasus said.
"Goodness, no." Fluttershy replied with a shocked look.
"You get the dragon to experience extreme emotion, like sadness, grief, or depression. Then you run away."
"Wait, but what about killing it?" The pegasus asked still confused.
"I've never done that, in fact no pony has. So you'll have to figure that out on your own."
"What?! Are you serious?" A earth pony asked in disbelief.
"I'm very serious." Fluttershy replied with a stern look.
"Class is dismissed." Fluttershy said as the still very confused class exited the classroom.
Spike left feeling somewhat disappointed.
Well, it is the first day. Spike thought.
Can't expect too much.
Spike made his way to the courtyard for his next class.
He then saw someone that made him almost have a heart attack.
Is that Tirek?! Spike thought in a mild panic.
I gotta warn the princesses. Spike thought as he began to run off.
"Wait dragon, don't be afraid. I mean you no harm." Tirek said, his voice sounding a lot less gravelly.
"You're not gonna hurt me?" Spike asked, still afraid.
"No."
"But why?"
"When I was imprisoned in Tartarus, Celestia decide to give me a choice.
"Either finish my sentence or promise to reform myself and teach at this academy."
"I certain you know which one I chose."
"And everypony is ok with this?" Spike asked confused.
"Yes, Celestia has promised to tell all the ponies that stay here of my new status."
"So what class do you teach?" Spike asked somewhat curious.
"You'll find out in a few minutes."
Just then the rest of the class arrived.
"Welcome to Battle Tactics, I'm Tirek. I'll be your instructor." Tirek said smiling.
Excited cheers and some nervous chatter were heard.
"Would anyone like to start?" Tirke asked.
"Anypony at all?"
"Hmm... how about you?" Tirek said pointing to Spike.
"Me?!" Spike said sounding nervous.
"Yes you."
"Come up here." Tirek said as he motioned for Spike to come to the front and face him.
"Ok, when I give the signal we will begin sparring." Tirek said.
Spike drew his sword and prepared himself.
"3, 2, 1... Begin!" Tirek said as he sprinted towards Spike.
Tirek started swinging his big meat clubs at Spike furiously.
Spike was slashing at his arms trying to get him to stop.
"Class, the first rule of Battle Tactics is to find a weakness in your opponent." Tirek said as he continued trying to punch Spike.
Spike jumped in the air and tried to slash at Tirek's face.
Tirek blocked his slashes and tried to grab Spike.
Spike managed to get away and land on the ground safety.
He then went for Tirek's legs when Tirek started pounding the ground in a attempt to make Spike lose his balance.
"Be careful not to left yourself open." Tirek said.
Spike staggered a little but didn't stumble.
However due to the shaking ground, Tirek had managed to grab Spike while he was distracted.
"When you have your opponent at your mercy finish the fight!" Tirek said as he faked the motion of slamming Spike onto the ground.
He then let Spike hop back onto the ground.
"Come back next time!" Tirek said after he dismissed the class.
Spike then walked to his final class of the day.
It would be a challenge for him to pay attention, because his instructor is Rarity.
"Good evening everyone I'm Rarity T. Diamond."
"But you can all call me Miss. Diamond."
"Welcome to your Social Etiquette class." She said smiling.
Everypony smiled back at her.
"Can anypony tell me what social etiquette is?" Rarity asked as she looked around.
"Anyone?"
"It's how you're suppose to act in social situations right?" A unicorn sitting up front said.
"Correct!" Rarity said.
"It is everything from eating properly to showing respect when speaking with others."
Rarity then listed various examples of proper tableware adjustment to how a pony should chew in the company of others.
It confused everypony that saw these diagrams.
But they decided to smile and nod politely as not to offend their professor.
The biggest pet peeve as Rarity put, is when a lady got all dirty and covered in muck and grime.
She pointed out the correct way a lady would clean the type of dress or shoe she was wearing.
And she pointed out how the stallions would behave on dates and what they should and shouldn't pay for.
Eventually it started to get boring to everypony, but Rarity continued to ramble on.
Then she said.
"Okay class! It's time to go! Class is dismissed!" Rarity said to the sounds of various cheers.
Spike snapped out of his daze.
He had heard something about being proper then nothing, he just daydreamed about Rarity the entire time of the class.
Spike got up and left the classroom in guilt for not actually paying attention to what Rarity taught.
He then went back to his room.
Spike showered and lay on his bed.
He decided to sleep.
Hopefully it will get better. Spike said to himself as he drifted off.
Spike woke up to sounds of ponies shouting and screams of panic.
He quickly got dressed and armed himself.
Then he peered out into the hallway.
He saw a earth pony and unicorn run past him.
"Run away! That thing is going to kill us!" The unicorn shouted as he ran past Spike.
Spike stepped out into the hallway and decided to see who or what was causing all this panic and chaos.
What he saw both surprised and terrified him.
He saw a tall dragon that was clad in armor, it was carrying a long sword and seemed to be unbelievably fast.
It cut down fellow classmates in front of him like butter, swiftly moving from one victim to another.
As Spike ran down the hallways to the main entrance, he turned around once to get a good look at this beast that was going on a rampage through the academy.
What he saw then made his blood run cold.
He recognized the purple skin as the light shone upon it.
And the thick green scales that ran down it's back.
The sharp claws and the sharp looking snout.
It looked like him.
"Where are you going whelp? I thought we were just starting to have fun!" The dragon said in a crazed tone as he turned a corner.
Then the dragon laughed.
That sounded a awful lot like Spike's laugh.
Spike still denied it though, he couldn't accept that this... this monster was him.
I gotta find Sunset and Gummy. Spike thought as he went outside.
Spike ran to the female living quarters.
"SUNSET!" Spike yelled out.
"What's going on?!!" Sunset said as she ran out to Spike.
"We gotta find Gummy and get outta here! There's some crazy dragon on a rampage!" Spike explained.
"Ok, let me get my things." Sunset said as she hurried back to her room.
A few minutes later Sunset appeared fully dressed and ready.
"Let's go." Sunset said as she and Spike ran out to find Gummy.
"Gummy!" Spike yelled out.
"Gummy, where are you?!" Spike said loudly.
Suddenly a roar was heard and the dragon appeared sprinting at them.
The dragon sprinted towards them and raised it's claws ready to strike.
Spike glared at it.
Trying to put up a brave front in the face of utter demise when suddenly the dragon stopped.
Spike and Sunset looked confused.
They heard slashing noises coming from behind the dragon.
It growled and turned slashing at their rescuer.
"Go away you foul beast!" Gummy said as he dodged the slashing claws and hacked at the dragon with his sword.
Gummy ran towards Spike and Sunset.
"Run!" He shouted as Spike and Sunset.
All three of them ran away from the dragon.
As Spike was running away, he turned back one last time.
He saw Princess Celestia blasting the beast with her magic.
"Princess! Run! It'll kill you!" Spike shouted.
"Do you fear Spike. I will save others after I am done dealing with this thing!" The princess said as she continued to fight the dragon.
"No!" Spike said as he tried to run back.
"SPIKE NO!" Sunset screamed as she saw Spike trying to run back to help Celestia.
Luckily Gummy grabbed Spike and kept running.
"No dude! Let me go! I gotta help the princess!" Spike said angrily.
"It's too late to help her Spike! Save yourself!"
"But-"
"You don't want to add to the body count! Do you?!" Gummy questioned, looking at Spike.
"No..." Spike said defeated as Gummy let him go.
Spike started running again, a sad look on his face.
Eventually they made it up the hill that overlooked the academy.
They took a couple minutes to catch their breath.
"So, what do we do now?" Sunset asked.
"I dunno, Gummy you got any ideas?" Spike said looking towards Gummy.
"We wait. Then we will know if there are any survivors." Gummy said, surveying the damage.
Suddenly a flash of light appeared before them.
The smoke cleared and a bruised Celestia stood before them.
"Celestia!" The gang cried out.
"Hello my students." Celestia said.
"Were you able to save anypony else?" Spike asked.
"Yes, Spike. I've teleported them to the nearest hospital."
Spike and Sunset let out a sigh of relief.
"So princess... what do we do now?" Gummy asked.
"I want all of you to travel around Equestria."
"Gather up enough allies to help rebuild the academy and stop any new threats to Equestria."
"What about the dragon?" Sunset asked.
"I defeated it and took it to Tartarus."
"Can I count on the three of you for this important task?" Celestia asked the gang.
"No problem!" Spike and Sunset said excited.
"Consider it done." Gummy said.
"Wait, what about Twilight?" Spike asked worried.
"Is she ok?"
"I didn't find a body so I assume she is safe."
Spike then smiled.
"I'm glad she made it out."
"So princess where should we go first?" Spike asked.
"I'll teleport you all back to Ponyville."
"After you have gathered your belongings, meet up at the train for the badlands."
"Good luck my little warriors."
Celestia then teleported the trio back to Ponyville.
Spike ran to the Golden Oak Library.
"Twilight! Are you here!" Spike asked worried.
"Spike! is that you?" A somewhat weak voice answered.
"Oh no Twilight!" Spike said as he ran over to Twilight.
Twilight then collapsed to the ground.
"NO!" Spike said as he ran over to her sobbing.
Spike then calmed down enough after a few minutes and checked her pulse.
"Oh good, she's still breathing." Spike thought as he felt for a pulse.
He carried her upstairs and put her on her bed.
Then he went to his room and looked at his belongings, deciding on what to take.
"Flashlight?"
"No."
"Book?"
"No."
"I'll take the map of Equestria."
Spike said as he rolled up a small sized map of Equestria.
He also took his half full coin purse.
Spike filled it with a couple more bits.
He decided that he would take a lantern too.
Spike put it in his travel sack.
He then carried that and headed out the door.
Be safe Twilight Spike thought as he headed towards the train station.
Spike made his way to the train station and brought his ticket.
He stood at the train platform waiting for Sunset and Gummy to arrive.
Sunset came a few minutes later.
She wore a simple hat and carried a pouch with her.
"Hi Sunset. Got everything you need?" Spike asked smiling.
"Hey Spike, yeah I've got everything. I'm just so excited! We get to travel around Equestria!" Sunset said as she tried not to squee.
*Squee*
"What was that?" Spike asked with a confused look on his face.
"N-nothing." Sunset said with a nervous smile.
Spike just looked at her once more and shrugged.
Then Gummy appeared.
"Hello fellow travelers." Gummy said in a neutral tone.
"Gummy! Glad you made it dude! You got everything you need?" Spike asked happily.
"Yes Spike, I am prepared for the journey ahead." Gummy said still not showing much emotion.
"Awesome man! I'm so excited! What about you?" Spike asked enthusiastically.
"Yes, I am rather excited as well. So much uncharted territory in Equestria. Oh what adventures we will go on." Gummy said trying to sound excited, but still coming off a little dry.
"You're getting there buddy, we'll make you emote more eventually." Spike said with a even bigger smile than before.
"Our train approaches." Gummy said as he prepared to get on.
Spike and Sunset got ready too.
They found some available seats.
Gummy sit across from Spike and Sunset.
"So, are there any restaurants in the Badlands?" Sunset asked, more hungry than curious.
"Let's see..." Spike said as he pulled out the map.
"Nope, doesn't look like it." Spike said as he scanned the entire map.
"Awww.... but I'm getting hungry." Sunset said with a whinny.
"Did you just..." Spike was about to say.
"Hey I'm a pony, don't judge." Sunset said slightly pouting.
Spike couldn't help but laugh at this, it was just too cute.
"H-hey stop laughing! It's not funny!" Sunset said now pouting angrily.
"But it's so cute..." Spike said laughing even harder.
Gummy decided to speak up.
"We're almost there. Prepare yourselves." Gummy said.
But Spike and Sunset continued to banter.
Then the conductor yelled.
"Next station stop- The Badlands!"
Spike and Sunset stopped what they were doing and stood up, gathering their belongings.
Gummy did the same.
"C'mon guys, let's go explore the Badlands!" Spike said with a smile on his face.
Sunset just frowned at him.
"Aw, c'mon Sunset, I said I was sorry."
Sunset didn't say anything.
"Who's got a frowny face? You do!" Spike said his smile growing wider.
"Well... I tried." Spike said shrugging as he got off the train.
"All aboard for Canterlot!" The conductor yelled as passengers got on.
The train then left leaving the trio at the train station.
Spike stomach started growling.
"Uh oh..." Spike said.
"We must go forward and found out what that small town is-"
Gummy stomach then growled loudly.
"Anyone up for some food?" Spike said with a sheepish look on his face.
They stopped at a small bar.
"Um... Spike, are you sure this place is safe?" Sunset asked with a skeptic look on her face.
She and Gummy kept a safe distance away from the bar.
"Safe?" Spike said as he looked at them.
" Only one way to find out." He said as he opened the door a crack and watched.
"What the hell are you looking at!" One pegasus said as he started fighting with a earth pony.
Their fight managed to knock over a table full of patrons.
They all got up covered in alcohol and looked really pissed off.
The bar once erupted in a massive fight as chairs were swung at faces.
And bottles were used as weapons.
One of the losing patrons got thrown out of the bar.
He landed near the Sunset and Gummy with a swollen face and limbs bent at strange angles.
Spike walked back to Sunset and Gummy.
"It's perfectly fine!" Spike said with a oblivious smile as he proceeded to walk inside.
Sunset and Gummy reluctantly followed inside.
Not even 10ft into the bar, Sunset was already being drunkenly hit on.
"Hey honey...w-why don't you ditch these two clowns and come home with a real stallion." The obnoxious earth pony said, whiskey staining his breath.
"No, go away." Sunset said turning away from him.
"Aw c'mon, these fools don't know how to treat a lady like yurself." He said as he wrapped a hoof around her and tried to pull her closer to him.
"Get off me!" Sunset yelled trying to push him off her.
Gummy pulled out his sword.
"Step away from the lady." Gummy said coldly.
"Hahaha!" The earth pony said as he looked at Gummy.
"You're just a lizard! What are you gonna do about it?" He said as he started grabbing at Sunset's more... private areas.
"Hey! Where do you think you're grabbing! Don't touch me there you pervert!" Sunset said furiously as the pony started poking around her legs.
"Help!" Sunset cried out, she tried to fight this pony off.
She tried stepping on his feet.
And squirming out of his grasp.
Sunset even smashed his jewels with a hoof.
But nothing was working!
This asshat just didn't wanna give up!
Gummy didn't respond he was just about to rush forward and swing at this asshat, when suddenly a purple fist rocketed towards the earth pony's face and send him careening into the bar stools.
"Hey buddy..." Spike said looking down at the earth pony with a scowl.
"Pick on someone who can actually beat your drunken ass."
"Big G is down!" One earth pony yelled out.
"Hey what's the deal! Picking on our boss." Another one said.
"You're gonna pay for that kid." Big G said as he got up and wiped the blood from his lip.
"Teach this punk what happens when you mess with The Z Stallions."
The gang prepared to bum rush Spike when suddenly Gummy blocked their path.
"You're not going to be hurting anypony else today." Gummy said as he sheathed his sword.
"I'll make sure of that." He said as he raised his armored fists for combat.
Gummy face showed silent fury.
It was so potent that it could kill a bull with a single glance.
Too bad these thugs aren't too keen on body language.
"Let's get em'!" One earth pony said as they all charged at Gummy and Spike.
Gummy nimbly dodged most of their drunken blows and punched at them.
They didn't last long, after a few heavy punches to the face. They were all on the ground or slumped across bar tables.
Spike turned quickly to see five guys knocked out around Gummy.
He was amazed that Gummy took them out so fast.
Spike on the other hand, saw the tank like pony he had to deal with.
He didn't like his odds.
He started punching him as hard as he could.
It didn't work.
He tried kicking him in the head.
The thug merely looked at him.
Oh crap... Spike said as he got hit by a big fist that came barreling towards him.
Spike managed to get back up on his feet.
Although his legs shook.
Oh crap I'm getting the fear jitters. Spike thought as he saw that his legs wouldn't stop shaking.
He then tried throwing beer bottles at this pony's face.
The bottles exploded in a shower of glass once they made contact with the pony's face.
The beer bottles worked!
They managed to cut the pony's face and cause lacerations.
But it still didn't stop him.
Spike smashed chairs against this pony's family jewels.
But it didn't work.
The pony then grabbed Spike and smashed him against a bar table.
The force of it was so strong that Spike went through the table.
Spike tried to get up but he was seeing double.
His body groaned in protest as he desperately tried to get back up.
The pony took advantage of this and grabbed Spike and picked him up, carrying him over his head.
He then looked around.
The pony spotted a alcohol display and carried Spike over to there.
He bit down on the pony's hands.
It didn't work.
Oh crap! Spike said as he struggled to break free.
Then a sword slashed at the pony's back and legs.
The pony cried out as the pain became too great and he collapsed on the ground.
"Phew!" Spike said as he got back down to the ground.
"Thanks Gummy!" Spike said.
"No thanks is needed." Gummy said.
"I was simply doing my duty. they were thugs." Gummy said in disgust.
"Yeah, let's go see how Sunset is doing." Spike said as he and Gummy walked over to Sunset.
"Hey Sunset, you okay?" Spike asked.
"Yeah Spike I'm fine." Sunset said.
"Just a little shaken up."
"Let's get outta here." Spike said.
The trio left the bar.
So they've survived my thugs eh? a certain god said with a goofy smile.
"OH MY, the property damage they caused!" The god said with a chuckle.
"And that DELICIOUS collateral damage!" He said drooling a little then licking his lips.
He then frowned in realization of what happened.
"It doesn't matter. They won't be able to stop me anyway."
"Muwahahahaha!"
Then the god coughed.
"Oh... note to self. Don't evil laugh for too long."
"Once I sent the green one away. I can take care of the rest of them." The god said with a big evil smile.
"Wait, what's that over there?" Sunset said pointing to a rectangular shape in the distance.
"It looks like a house! or maybe a hut." Spike said.
"C'mon guys let's go see if there's any water there!" He said as he ran to the mysterious place.
He ran to the shape only to found out it was a house.
What surprised him ever more was that a big red figure stepped out of the home.
"Tirek?!" Spike said in confusion.
"Hello Spike. I'm glad to see you have made it here safely." Tirek said.
"And I see you've brought some friends."
"Hi I'm Sunset." Sunset said smiling.
"I'm Gummy." Gummy said shaking his hand.
"Spike is that you?" Twilight said as she stepped out.
"Twilight!" Spike yelled out as he ran to her to give her a big hug.
"Spike, I'm glad you're not hurt." Twilight said hugging him back.
"But what are you doing here?" Spike asked confused.
"Well, when the dragon was attacking. professor Tirek managed to find me and help me escape."
"I promised to help him find any remaining survivors and now I'm here."
"I'm sorry to interrupt Princess but I must prepare them for the journey ahead."
"Yes Tirek, it would be best. Spike follow professor tirek's training."
"Wait... you know about my mission?" Spike asked.
"Yes, Princess Celestia told me about it."
"I'm sorry to leave Spike but I must search the destroyed academy for more survivors." Twilight said preparing to teleport.
"I wish you three the best. stay safe." Twilight said as she hugged Spike again.
"Ok Twilight, we protect Equestria. I promise!" Spike said as she teleported away.
"Now, are you three ready to begin your training?" Tirek asked.
"Can we have some food and something to drink first?" Sunset asked.
As they ate and quenched their thirst.
Spike began to ask Tirek some questions.
"So Tirek is there any reason why you wanted to save others who survived?" Spike asked with general curiosity, while Tirek did take the teaching job, Spike still didn't really trust him.
"I wanted to save them to make up for trying to take over Equestria." Tirek said.
"Seems fair enough." Spike said.
"But why do you have a house out in the Badlands?" Spike then asked.
"Well... I made a couple of investments with certain merchants, then I saved up enough to buy this home." Tirek said.
"Cool." Spike said turning to Gummy and Sunset.
"Guys... I don't trust him." Spike said quietly.
"Spike you're not giving him a chance." Sunset said.
"Maybe he has changed."
"Maybe..." Gummy said pondering.
"Or it could be a ruse to make us let our guard down then attack us when we are the most vulnerable." Gummy concluded.
"But why would he want to attack us? We're just three students from Celestia's academy." Sunset asked, confused.
"He could know about the mission that Celestia entrusted us with." Gummy said.
"You must remember that changeling spies are everywhere nowadays."
"But still... I want to believe he's changed." Sunset said.
"Just stay on guard." Gummy advised.
"So... are you guys ready to train?" Tirek asked, snapping them out of that conversation.
"We're ready!" The trio yelled in excitement.
"Good, please follow me to my backyard." Tirek said as he walked to this backyard.
"Whoa..." Spike said as he walked in the backyard.
There were so much green.
It surprised him how there could be so much grass and trees in this part of Equestria.
"Awesome!" Sunset said as she looked around.
"Quite impressive." Gummy said as he surveyed the surrounding greenery.
"How did you get all this grass?" Spike asked.
"I thought this part of Equestria was too dry to grow grass."
"It is, but I brought a whole lake with me and kept my eye on the area, making sure to water it and let it grow." Tirek said.
"Woah..." Spike said in awe.
"Now let me assess each of you individually." Tirek said.
"Spike, you're up first." Tirek said.
"Alright guys, I'm up." Spike said.
"Good luck!" Sunset said smiling.
Spike smiled back.
He approached Tirek.
"Alright Spike, show me what you got." Tirek said.
Spike charged forward drawing his sword for a low swiping slashes.
Tirek blocked them.
Spike kept trying, slashing at Tirek with all his might.
Tirek was having starting to have a little trouble keeping up with him.
Spike then tried to go for a overhead slash.
But he was tired.
Tirek blocked the blow.
"Good job Spike! You've definitely improved from our last battle." Tirek said.
"But we need to your speed and endurance. All that power won't do you any good if you don't have the speed and endurance to keep up with your opponent."
Up next was Gummy.
"Hello there." Tirek said.
"Looks like your up next."
"Show me what you've got!" Tirek said as Gummy rushed him.
Tirek tried to slow Gummy down with a flurry of punches but Gummy avoided all of them.
He's fast... Tirek mentally noted.
Gummy then went on the offense.
Furiously slashing at Tirek.
Tirek was impressed to say the least.
It been a while since a mere mortal could give him a bit of a challenge.
His blows were heavy and quick.
Tirek could actually feel when the sword made contact with his skin.
Eventually Tirek decided to end it.
Gummy had managed to cause him to stagger.
"Good work Gummy!" Tirek said.
"You're strength and speed are impressive. If I would have not stopped the fight, that sword may have been at my neck."
"But we'll still work on your endurance."
Tirek then turned to Sunset.
"I don't really have anything magic related to teach you since you are a unicorn."
"If only Princess Twilight were here." Tirek mused.
As if Celestia heard their cries of distress. Twilight suddenly appeared in front of them.
"Hi guys, I'm back!" Twilight said as she finished teleporting.
"Twilight!" The trio cried out.
"But what are you doing here?" Spike asked.
"Well, after I checked on my friends. I made sure that you guys were doing alright." Twilight said.
"Perfect timing Miss Sparkle." Tirek said.
"I need you to teach Sunset how to teleport long distances. Just in case she gets into trouble and needs a way out."
"Ok. I'll do it!" Twilight said smiling.
"Come here Sunset. I'll teach you the basics of teleporting." Twilight said.
"Okay." Sunset said as she walked over to Twilight.
"So you remember that when you perform a spell, you have to focus your magic right?"Twilight asked.
"Yeah!" Sunset said.
"Well, teleporting is kind of similar. Expect you have to imagine the place you are teleporting to."
"Also it's very important that you concentrate when you do this, if your mind wanders then it could send you off course completely."
"You could even end up in a different universe if you're not careful!" Twilight said emphasizing that last part.
Twilght and Sunset practiced this for the rest of the afternoon.
Sunset eventually got the hang of it.
Twilight was ecstatic when that happened.
"That was fun and all, but unfortunately I have to go. Princess Celestia needs me for repairs to the academy." Twilight said.
"Ok bye Twilight! Be safe!" Spike said happily.
"Come visit us if you can!" Sunset said waving.
"Goodbye Princess... and good luck in repairing the academy." Gummy said in a sincere tone.
"Thank you all!" Bye!" Twilight said as she teleported back to the academy.
"Let's continue exploring." Gummy said.
"Ok, let me tell Tirek that we are leaving." Spike said.
"We'll be going now Professor Tirek! Thanks for everything!" Spike said happily waving goodbye.
"No problem! You kids stay safe!" Tirek said.
"Thank you! Bye!" The trio said as they continuing their journey across Equestria.
Chapter 9- Now let's go!... to the Northern Mountains?!
"Yes, and my most faithful would like to help." Celestia said.
"Hello Twilight." Celestia said as she saw Twilight galloping towards them.
"I came as soon as I got your letter." Twilight said.
"Don't worry Sunset." Twilight said with a smile.
"We'll help Spike return to normal."
"I promise."
"I won't let my 1# assistant down." Twilight said looking determined
"For Spike, For Me. For Equestria!" Twilight said.
Then Sunset and Twilight worked to find some type of spell or item to help get Spike back to normal.
Twilight looked through her books.
Sunset looked through the Starswirl the Bearded section of the Royal Library.
Twilight teleported to the Royal Library.
"Find anything yet Sunset?" Twilight asked.
"Well... not really Twi." Sunset said, looking distressed.
"Oh wait! I found a book!" Sunset said happily.
"Let's read it!" Twilight said as Sunset flipped through the book Starswirl's Guide to Dragon Instinct.
"Let's see here, it says that if a newly awakened dragon is calmed down enough, they will revert back to their former selves."
Sunset continued to read.
"However, if a newly awakened dragon does not revert back to their former selves in three days. Their Dragon Instincts will take over completely!" Sunset said in fear.
"Oh no! We have to stop him before that happens!" Twilight said.
"But how do we calm down an enraged dragon?" They both wondered out loud simultaneously.
"Fluttershy!" Sunset and Twilight said as they knocked on the door.
"FLUTTERSHY WE NEED YOUR HELP! THIS IS A EMERGENCY!" They both shouted.
The door suddenly swung open and smacked both of them in the face.
It send them careening onto the ground.
"Oh my goodness! I'm so sorry! Are you okay?!" Fluttershy said, worrying that she just gave them concussions.
Sunset was the first to get up.
She rubbed her aching head.
"Fluttershy, thank celestia you are home. We need your help!" Sunset said quickly.
Twilight then got up and said "Yes Fluttershy, do you know anything about dragon instinct?"
"Y-yes... please come inside." Fluttershy said afraid that something bad happened to Spike.
They all sit down at Fluttershy's dining table.
"What do you need to know?" Fluttershy said cutting to the chase.
Twilight and Sunset told Fluttershy about what happened to Spike.
"Oh goodness! Is Spike alright?" Fluttershy asked.
"He won't be if we don't find a way to return him to normal!" Sunset said.
"Fluttershy, do you have any ideas of how to calm down Spike?" Twilight asked.
"Have you looked through spells books?" Fluttershy asked.
"Yes and we couldn't find anything." Sunset said in frustration.
"Mmmh... have you tried calling his name a lot and reminding Spike of who you are Sunset?" Fluttershy said.
"WHAT?! That only works in movies and harem anime!" Sunset said.
"This is real life Fluttershy! REAL LIFE!" Sunset said putting a extreme amount of emphasis on the last phrase.
"You never know until you try." Fluttershy said as she sipped some tea.
"Don't worry Sunset if it doesn't work, I'll have a backup spell ready by the time you'll done that." Twilight said trying to reassure Sunset.
"Okay, but if this doesn't work. I'm leading a pissed off Spike to your cottage first." Sunset said coldly.
"You wouldn't dare..." Fluttershy said with shock and rather fearful look on her face.
"Try me..." Sunset shot back.
"Alright then, let's do this girls!" Twilight said.
"Operation SAVE SPIKE'S BOOTY is a GO!" Twilight yelled clopping her hooves together excitedly.
Sunset took a train to the Northern Mountains as Twilight searched every nook and cranny of her library for a spell for fix Spike.
Sunset was worried, but also had to believe that she could save him.
She had to believe that Twilight and her would bring Spike back.
Sunset got off the train, shivering as her hooves touched the snow.
Ok Sunset... you can do this. She said to herself.
"Just don't die right? ha ha!" Sunset said, laughing nervously.
She timidly called out for Spike.
"S-spike..." She managed to choke out.
"SPIKE!" Sunset yelled out, showing more confidence.
A fierce roar was heard in the distance.
Sunset tried to stand her ground and put on a brave front.
Even though her forelegs started shaking.
But this wasn't a ordinarydragon that approached her...
This dragon was larger than all the dragons she had ever seen.
It looked like he was wearing some sort of crown.
Royalty perhaps?
Sunset tried her luck and spoke to this newcomer.
"H-hello." Sunset said, as she tried to stop her voice from breaking.
"Hello, young one." The dragon rumbled, his deep voice sending vibrations through Sunset.
"You can talk?!" Sunset said, a look of surprise crossing her face.
"Yes... dragons always could." The dragon said with a amused chuckle.
"I heard you calling out your friend's name." The dragon said, stating his observation.
"Yes... I just want Spike to return to normal and come back with Gummy and I." Sunset said, with a slight tone of pleading in her voice.
"Ah... you want your friend back. But have you ever thought that this was what was meant for Spike?" The dragon questioned, his eyes hardening with intent.
"W-what? I don't understand." Sunset said, her voice squeaking with confusion.
"Come with me." The dragon said as he started flying back to the Lord Birax's lair.
"Wait up!" Sunset yelled, as she galloped after the dragon.
The dragon took her directly to Lord Birax, but the throne was empty.
"Why's the throne empty? Who does this belong to?" Sunset questioned, getting even more confused than before.
"Lord Birax! We've came as soon as we heard-" The dragon guard cut himself off as he stared at Sunset.
"Intruder in the throne room!" He shouted as he leaped towards Sunset, intending to maul her.
"Wait!" Lord Birax shouted.
The guard stopped himself in mid air and protested.
"But Sir! She is one of those ponies! We mustn't let her escape with knowledge of your lair!"
"She is our guest of honor, and you will show her the utmost respect." Lord Birax said.
"My apologies, I didn't know the Lord would be having guests." The guard said, hanging his head in shame for almost killing Sunset.
"It's okay." Sunset said.
"As you were soldier." Lord Birax commanded.
"Yes Sir!" The soldier saluted, then returned to his post.
"You..." Sunset said as she pointed a hoof at the dragon sitting on the throne.
"You're the dragon king?!" Sunset said, her voice squeaking with shock.
"Yes."
"Although I prefer the title of Baron." Lord Birax said.
"Why keep such a big secret from me? You should have told me from the beginning." Sunset whined.
"And risk your freaking out, I think not." Baron Birax replied smugly.
"HEY! I do not freak out! I'm a calm pony!" Sunset yelled, embarrassed.
"Right..." Baron Birax deadpanned.
"Enough of this trivial banter, I believe you were trying to save your friend...?" Birax, said with a exaggerated raise of his eyebrows and a slight nudge on Sunset's shoulder.
"Right!" Sunset said, her face turning scarlet.
"I was wondering oh great and powerful Birax the merciful, if you knew how to save my dear friend Spike." Sunset said, as she bowed her head in a show of respect.
"Whoa, lying it on a little thick, don'tcha think?" Birax said, as he scratched the back of his head, embarrassed by Sunset's groveling.
"Oh great and power-" Sunset began but was cut off by Birax.
"Save all the groveling for a evil overlord, will ya?" Birax said, a look of annoyance plastered on his face.
"Oh thank you great and-"
"Stop doing that." Birax said as he put a claw in front of Sunset's face to stop her from continuing.
"Sorry about that Baron Birax." Sunset apologized.
"Please, call me Birax, no need for Baron. You are my guest of honor after all..." Birax said with a warm smile.
"Please help me return my friend Spike back to normal Birax." Sunset requested.
"Meh... I'll think about it." Birax said with a bored look on his face.
1 minute later...
"Okay, I'll help you." Birax said
"Oh thank you! Thank you!" Sunset said with a look of surprised happiness on her face.
"Yes."
"Now the first step is identifying what happened to your friend." Birax said, as he toke out a pen and notepad.
Sunset stared at the couch.
"When did that get there?!" Sunset said looking bewildered.
"Please take a seat." Birax said as he gestured towards the couch.
"O-okay." Sunset said, still weirded out but the sudden change in tone.
"Now, miss shimmer... would you tell me what happened to Spike?" Birax said as he pulled out a notepad.
"Well... we found this oasis inside a cave nearby." Sunset said.
"Mhmm, Go on..." The dragon instructed.
"Spike found this weird stone tablet and looked at it... then he changed." Sunset said, hoarsely whispering the last word.
"Why?" Birax asked.
"What do you mean why? Aren't you a dragon?! Shouldn't you know these things!" Sunset yelled out in a distraught tone.
"Yes, I know. But you're not going to like the answer." Birax said, his eyes narrowing in seriousness.
"Just tell me Baron, we're wasting time." Sunset said sternly.
Birax sighed heavily.
"Spike is now fueled by his instincts. He has now returned to normal."
"What?!" Sunset said in shock.
"He's not normal! He's... turned into a monster!" Sunset yelled.
"I understand that you're upset, but this is how he is supposed to be." Birax started explaining.
"It's not normal to you ponies because you've changed his personality. His sheltered life caused his dragon instincts to suppress."
"That doesn't matter! How do we stop it?" Sunset asked determined.
"You can't stop it." Birax said his eyes narrowing.
"But I read a book about this! It said that if we calm him down before three days he'll return to normal!" Sunset said.
"The book lied to you." Birax said bluntly.
"What?!" Sunset cried out in shock.
"How is that possible?" Sunset asked. starting to panic.
"The book was written by a pony, correct?" Birax questioned.
"Yes.. but what does that have to do with it?" Sunset asked confused.
"Ponies don't know much about us." Birax said.
"Besides I'm a dragon."
"Try to trust my judgement."
"Okay, I'll trust you." Sunset said.
A few moments of silence followed.
"He is a teenager correct?" Birax asked.
"Yes! but why does that matter?" Sunset asked confused.
"He will return to his normal to normal eventually." Birax explained.
"How long will it take?" Sunset asked.
"I don't know, no dragon has ever tapped into the power of the dragon path stone tablet unguided."
"We don't know if it affected him on a deeper level." Birax said.
"For now, return to your home and await his return." Birax instructed.
"He'll know how to come back?" Sunset questioned.
"Yes, he will fly back with his wings." Birax said nonchalantly.
"But he doesn't have wings!" Sunset pointed out.
"He will gain them after this phase."
"We call it the true awakening." Birax said finishing with the explanation.
"Why do you call it that?" Sunset asked.
"It's when all dragons true instincts are revealed."
"Ok." Sunset said nodding.
"Can you return home safely?" Birax asked.
"Yes, I'll be fine. Thank you for telling me all this information Birax." Sunset said.
"You're welcome Sunset, good luck with Spike." Birax said.
"Bye Birax!" Sunset said smiling.
"Goodbye Sunset." Birax said as Sunset teleported back to Ponyville.
Sunset ran over to Twilight's place.
"Twilight open up!" Sunset yelled.
Twilight opened the door to find Sunset there.
"Sunset! Where's Spike?" Twilight asked.
"I talked with the dragon baron, he said... that we have to wait." Sunset said sadly.
"Spike will return to his normal self and come back to us."
"No! I refuse to believe it! The book said-"
"The book lied Twilight, the dragon told me himself."
"I'm sorry Twilight, I want him back badly too." Sunset said as she put a hoof on her shoulder in comfort.
"But we have to wait and see what happens to Spike." Sunset said, accepting the reality of the situation.
"Okay Sunset, if the dragon says so. Then we'll wait and see." Twilight said.
Stay safe Spike.Twilight thought.
This was going to be the hardest part.
Weeks passed and eventually, everypony in Ponyville wondered.
What happened to Spike?
Spike woke up.
He was lost.
Alone.
Cold.
"Is anypony here?!" Spike cried out.
Spike stretched his wings and slowly hovered into the air.
He decided to go to the only familiar place in these mountains.
"Ah... so the hatchling has returned." Lord Birax proclaimed.
"What happened to me?" Spike questioned.
"Your destiny, your purpose." Lord Birax began.
"You saw what the ponies did to us."
"Yes..." Spike said.
"And how do you feel?" Lord Birax asked.
"I feel different."
"More powerful."
"Faster."
"Lighter."
"Good, then your body didn't reject the transformation." Lord Birax said.
"There were others who went through this?" Spike asked.
"Oh yes, it was a shame they didn't survive." Lord Birax said, his voice dropping at the last word.
"Where do you want me to go?" Spike asked.
"Go back to the ponies."
"Fulfill your destiny!" Lord Birax roared.
"DESTROY THEM!"
"N-no!" Spike yelled, his eyes burning with anger.
"I have friends and family back in Ponyville!" Spike said, standing his ground.
"You dare refuse my orders?" Lord Birax said quietly.
"GUARDS!"
"Yivgornux has disobeyed and orders.."
"AND THUS HAS COMMENDED TREASON AGAINST DRAGON KIND!"
Spike watched as a wave of dragon guards flew into the room.
"I don't wanna hurt you guys.." Spike said, as he hovered in the air.
"ARGHHH!" One dragon guard said as he charged Spike.
Spike barely dodged claw strikes as another shot flaming arrows at him.
Spike spun around in a circle and breathed fire.
This made the dragon guards back off a bit.
"C'mon lads!" The Captain said.
"He's just one dragon!"
Spike was immediately assaulted by maces, claws, teeth and swords.
Spike tried his best to fight them all but knew it was futile.
"Damn it..." Spike said as he dodged yet another mace strike.
"I'll have to make a run for it."
"Can't fight them all."
Spike flew away from the chaos of the throne room and exited the cavern.
Just as he left, he smashed a couple of stone pillars causing debris to block off the entrance.
"I've gotta warn Twilight and the others." Spike said as he flew towards Ponyville.
