Putting down the satchel of minerals, Spike took an offensive posture. The obstructing drake bellowed a stream of fire as a show of dominance. "Hang back Maud," Spike said, while popping his knuckles, "I got this." A heavy thump and hoof against his arm returned his gaze to her.
"We've got this," Maud flatly replied. Flashing a smile, they charged. Unimpressed, it prepared another torrent of fire. A quick jab and uppercut put the kibosh on that as the drake stumbled back.
Dashing ahead, Maud delivered a flip kick to his jaw as Spike performed a leg sweep.
Spotting its flailing claws, Spike dove forward. Instead of Maud, his arm bore the attack. "Are you ok?"
"Am I alright? What about you?"
"This is nothing," he replied, "I'm just glad you're not hurt." With the battle won, they reclaimed their satchels and left the cave. As Spike unfurled his wings, Maud realized the carefree dragon was more than once thought. When push came to shove, he'd walk the line and bring forth the wrath of Tartarus if needed.
"Are you ready?" Spike called. Snapped from her musings, she quickly climbed onto his back and held on as he flew off.
***The original entry***
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If not for the deep gash in her hindleg she might have kicked a few helpful boulders. Instead, she was relegated to a spectator while the teenage drakes fought. The disgust of her inability to help was masked by Spike's unexpected prowess in combat.
Unlike the other drake, Spike struck with nightmarish precision. It seemed as if the seraphim themselves were guiding him as he fluidly chained his attacks together. His former personality was replaced by a lone determination to win. Maud knew it wasn't for pride nor self-image but a genuine desire to protect his friends.
Being the analytical pony she was, Maud was able to see past the facade of others. There before her stood a drake who enjoyed a carefree life. However, when the chips were down Spike wasn't afraid to hold the line. For his friends, he'd bring the unyielding fury of Tartarus against any foe.