//------------------------------// // A Hangout // Story: Spike's Turnabout // by PonyJoel //------------------------------// It's now 8:00 in the morning. Princess Cadance is waking up. She stretches and watches Shining Armor waking up. "Morning, Shining," Cadance said as she continues to stretch. "Morning, love. So, when are you visiting Spike?" "Sometime in the afternoon. When are you visiting Princess Luna?" "Sometime during the late afternoon or evening." "Alright, Shining," Cadance said. Cadance walks up to her husband, who is getting out of bed and kisses his cheek. The morning is like any other morning. Cadance attending to some meetings, go around the Crystal Empire, opening new stores in front of crowds, and visiting young fillies and colts at different schools. Shining Armor's routine is patrolling the streets of the Crystal Empire, stopping thugs and minor criminal activity, and training the newer recruits. The morning goes by quick, which allows Cadance to go to the train station. Eager to visit Spike after everything that has happened since his decision to run away. Cadance alerts a Crystal Guard to inform Shining Armor that she is on her way to visit Spike. It's now 12:30. Princess Cadance is waiting for the next train to Pony Central. She thinks about how to approach Spike. Does she talk about the recent events that happened earlier? Does she talk about forgiving Twilight and her friends, someday? Does she talk about Spike's time in Pony Central? Does she talk about Daybreaker, the castle? Some many questions continue to pop into her mind. She'll know what to say and how to say it once she confronts and spend time with Spike. The train pulls in the station. Cadance gets on the train and sits by the window. As the train leaves the station, Cadance ponders on the type of situation with Spike. It's been a half-hour of waiting for Spike and Indigo. They've been waiting for Sunny Flare to come out of the Weather Command Station. The door finally opens. Star Bolt opens the doors allowing the weather team to take a break for the rest of the day. "Hey, Star Bolt," Spike greets. "Hey, Spike. I'm guessing you and Indigo are waiting for Sunny?" Star Bolt asks. "Yes, sir!" Indigo said and salutes. Star Bolt chuckles a bit. "At ease, Indigo." Sunny Flare walks out with Thunder Bolt. They had a busy morning gathering the clouds for tonight's storm. The rest of the day will remain sunny until the night shift team comes around to bring the rain. Thunder Bolt trots with his dad down the other way. Sunny walks up to Spike and Indigo. "Finally!" Indigo expressed impatiently. "Sorry, Indigo. Gathering clouds took more effort than we thought," Sunny replies. "Hey, Spike. How are you today?" She asks, smiling. "T-T-Terrific..." Spike said as he dozes off a bit. "Spike?" Sunny waves her hoof in front of him as Spike is in a trance. "Spike, you there?" Indigo chuckles a bit as Sunny looks at Indigo with confusion. "Why are you laughing?" "Sorry, I think Spike should tell you," Indigo said as she stops chuckling. "Okay?" Spike snaps himself from the trance. "I'm here. I'm fine, Sunny." "You sure?" Sunny said, raising an eyebrow. "Yes," Spike blushes slightly. "Alright, then. So, where should we go to grab a bite to eat?" "Where you normally go to grab a bite to eat, Sunny?" Spike asks. "Well, normally at Sugary Skies Bakery or the all you can eat buffet around the corner." "Alright, so where should we go?" Indigo said. "Hmm, let's head over to the all you can eat buffet," Sunny said. "Fine with me," Spike stated. Sunny Flare, Indigo Zap, and Spike walk to the all you can eat buffet. As they enter, Indigo sees Maiden of the Skies, Captain of the Shadow Bolts. Dashing Bullet. Indigo starts having butterflies in her stomach. Her knees start shaking as nervous sweat rains down on her face a bit. Sunny and Spike notice Indigo's reaction. "Everything okay, Indigo?" Sunny asks. "D-D-D-D-D-Dashing...B-B-B-B-B-Bullet..." Indigo said, trembling a bit. Sunny looks and sees Dashing Bullet in the distance. "Oh.., right. Maiden of the Skies, Captain of the Shadow Bolts. My second boss, when Star Bolt isn't around." "Hey, Indigo. Have you tried talking to Dashing Bullet?" "Not...really, Spike." "Well, today could be the day you finally talk to Dashing Bullet." Indigo gasps. "No, no, no, no, no, no, no, Spike. I'm not ready yet." "Hmm, alright, then," Spike smirks. Spike walks towards the buffet table where Dashing Bullet is. Indigo's pupil shrink as she watches Spike from afar. Sunny rolls her eyes and watches Spike from afar as well. Dashing Bullet is getting a salad to go with her fruit. "Hi, Dashing Bullet." "Hello, Spike. Nice to see you here. So, is there something you want me to grab for you?" "Uh, not yet. Anyway, are you alone or with others here in the buffet?" "I came by myself." "Would you like to sit with Sunny, Indigo, and I for lunch?" "Sure. I don't see a reason to refuse." "Cool. I'll go look for a table for the four of us to sit." "Sounds good, Spike." After a few moments, Spike locates a round table for Dashing Bullet, Indigo, Sunny, and he to sit. Spike brought a plate of gems and haystack fries. Sunny and Dashing Bullet brought a plate of veggies and fruits. Indigo brought a plate of fruits and haystack fries. Spike sits next to Sunny and Dashing at the round table. Indigo starts sweating nervously. "So Spike," Dashing said. "Enjoying your time in Pony Central?" "I am. It's nice here. Also, I have a weekly stay with my friends at their houses." "Interesting," Dashing said. She takes a bite out of an apple. "So, who are you staying with for the week?" "Last week was Lemon Zest. This week is Indigo Zap." Dashing Bullet looks at Indigo. She is sweating as Dashing looks. Dashing chuckles. "No need to be nervous, Indigo. It's just a simple hang out." "I think she's frightened," Spike said. "Indigo, please speak up. Tell me what's on your mind?" Dashing said assuringly. Indigo sighs. "I look up to you, Dashing Bullet. You are an inspiration to me. I want to be a Shadowbolt someday. I train hard. Every other day, I train mentally and physically to be better. You are a living legend, Dashing. My ego and my pride may get in the way of achieving my goals to be a Shadowbolt someday. Not everyone gets to join." Dashing Bullet extends her wing to Indigo. Indigo looks at her idol. Dashing smiles at Indigo. "To tell you the truth, kiddo. I was a lot like you when I was younger." "R-Really?" "When I was younger, I wanted to push myself and break the limits of my body. Training hard and giving 110% every day. I went at it the wrong way. To be a Shadowbolt, it takes pride, love, and willingness to sacrifice anything and everything to protect those you love and hold dearly. It's not about being the strongest, the fastest, and fame. It's about working together, sacrifice, and wanting to be the best you can for others. United we stand, divided we fall. In the unity of the Shadowbolts, we are the best defenders of Equestria. Tell me, have you allowed your pride to protect someone you love or wanted to make sure he or she is safe from harm's way?" "Yes," Indigo said. She looks at Spike then at Dashing. "Twilight Sparkle and her friends ambushed us at Lemon's house. I feared that they were going to ruin Spike's life even more after what he suffered through. I wanted to fight and save Spike. I was going to break any limbs of theirs with my teeth or wings. I tackled Rainbow Dash and popped her wing with my teeth. I told Twilight and her friends that your not going to ruin his life anymore." "Yea, she did that. She landed in front of me, wanting to protect me, and was willing to fight back," Spike stated. "Well, that's noble of you, Indigo," Dashing said. "I can see the eagerness in your eyes and the fear of being rejected. In the new year coming up, I'll allow you to participate in the Shadowbolt boot camp to become an official Shadowbolt." Indigo's eyes widen in shock. She's no longer sweating or nervous anymore. "Wow, just like that to get into the Shadowbolts boot camp?" Spike questions out of shock and amazement. "Yes. Wonderbolt and Shadowbolt acceptance are different. Wonderbolt acceptance is through training first, then taking an exam to know what are the Wonderbolts flight patterns and history. Wonderbolts select a few who excel in flight speed, patterns, and toughness. Shadowbolts are different. Shadowbolts' acceptance is through determination, teamwork, and heart. The training is more intensified than the Wonderbolts. The training puts you in a scenario that can likely happen. How to maneuver the situation by yourself or as a team speaks volumes." "Wow, that'll explain Star Bolt about me being a Shadowbolt when I'm older." "We recruit differently, Spike. When we see potential, we speak. When we don't, we remain silent," Dashing said. "Did you or Star Bolt have seen Indigo's potential?" Spike asks. "Star Bolt and I have seen it. We never got to ask cause she flies away. We weren't going to deny cause us Shadowbolts understand the heaviness of others and how to approach it. Just need the right time to say the message." Indigo breathes heavily after hearing that. Then she calms down after taking deep breathes. "So, are the Shadowbolts all Pegasi?" "No, Spike. We have griffons on our squad. Shadowbolts allows any creature that can fly to join. Wonderbolts have a stricter policy about other creatures joining. Pony Central allows any creature to live here in harmony. We would not deny work from other creatures." "I'll look more into joining the Shadowbolts someday," Spike said. "That's good," Dashing said. "Dashing," Sunny asks. "Yes, Sunny?" "Three weeks from today, I request to have a week off." "Why in three weeks?" "Three weeks from today is when I take care of Spike for the week." "Ooooh, so let me get this straight. Spike?" Dashing asks. "Yes?" Spike answers. "What's your weekly stay like?" "The first week, I'm with Lemon Zest. The following week is with Indigo Zap. Then Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, and Sunny Flare." "Alright, Sunny. You'll have that week off. Every four weeks you work, you'll have the next week off to take care of Spike." "Thank you, Ma'am," Sunny said. "You're welcome, Sunny. Now then, let's eat." Dashing, Indigo, Sunny, and Spike chow down. They had a good time appreciating each other's company. Having some good laughs and telling short stories. Dashing is interested in going into the castle. No pony in Pony Central has stepped in. They set up a date to explore the castle. Dashing Bullet wants to bring some of the Shadowbolts to explore the castle as well. Indigo mentions some time this week they'll go by and visit the castle. Dashing picks up her plate. "See you around, kiddo. I have to prepare myself with the night shift weather team. See you later; Spike, Sunny. Have a nice day," Dashing said as she puts her plate on top of the pile and leaves the buffet. "That was delicious," Spike said after having two plates of gems. "I'll say," Sunny said. Indigo smiles as she watches Dashing leaves. She sighs happily and stretches her wings. "Alright, I ready to go to the fields," Indigo said. "So, who's paying for this and what we are doing at Pony Central Fields?" Spike asks. "Indigo and I will pay. Also, we either relax or play sports." "Cool!" Spike said. Indigo and Sunny pay for the meals and leave the buffet with Spike. They take the long route to the Pony Central fields. Around this time, the train pulls up in the station. Princess Cadance leaves the train and trots down the path to Pony Central. As she trots, she sees the lemon tree orchard. "So, this is Lemon Zest's farm. How interesting. Perhaps she can tell me where Spike is," Cadance trots to Lemon's house and knocks. "Just one minute," Lemon said. Cadance waits patiently. Lemon walks to her door and opens it. "Hi, Lemon Zest." "Princess Cadance. Welcome to my home." "Thanks, have you seen Spike by any chance?" "Yes, he's with Indigo Zap. Is there something wrong, Princess Cadance?" "No, I'm here to visit Spike. I want to see how he is doing." "Well, walk around in town or go by Pony Central fields. I'm pretty sure you'll find him, Princess Cadance." "I will and thank you," Princess Cadance said. "You're welcome," Lemon said. She closes her door and starts cleaning her home. Princess Cadance takes flight and scout Pony Central until she locates Spike. Indigo, Sunny, and Spike are at Pony Central Fields. They meet up with a bunch of griffons to play soccer. "Hey, Hydros. Hey, Aura. Hey, Jaybird." "Hey, Spike." They said in unison. "So," Indigo said. She has the soccer ball spinning on her wing. "What are the teams?" "Well, there are seven of us and three of you so, we'll have two captains and play it by ear." "Sounds good to us," Sunny said. There are two goal nets set up. "Alright, first two to score a goal gets to be captain," Hydros said. Everyone lines up perfectly to take turns shooting at the net. "I'm up," Indigo said. She kicks the soccer ball and misses the net. It bounces on the goal pole. "Darn it!" Indigo shouts and trots to the back of the line. Aura flies to the ball and puts it back for the next kicker. "Nice, I'm up," Spike said. Spike run towards the ball and kicks it. The ball ends up being short of the goal. "Darn it!" Spike shouts, then walks to the back of the line frustrated. "My turn," Hydros said. He goes get the ball and put it in position. He steadies himself, aiming where he wants to kick. Hydros goes for the kick. The ball goes wide left missing the goal. The others laughed while Hydros takes the walk of shame to the back of the line. "Let me show you how to score a goal," Jaybird said, cockily. Jaybird gets the ball and puts it in position. He closes his eyes and kicks the ball straight at the goal. "Hah! I choose first," Jaybird said as he flies backward. "Show off!" Hydros shouts. "I got this," Sunny said. "A pegasus. Ooooh, I'm so scared," Jaybird said, mockingly toward Sunny Flare. Jaybird puts the ball in position for Sunny to kick. "Take this!" Sunny kicks the ball at Jaybird. The ball and Jaybird go straight at the goal. "Lucky shot," Jaybird said, as he rubs his face. "Well, we have two captains. Jaybird, you pick first," Aura said. Jaybird is an orange griffin. His head is black. Jaybird has a cockiness problem when it comes down to cooking and when it comes down to playing soccer. He is a head chef at Pony Central's Grill and Chill restaurant. Always bragging about how great his cooking is and how great his playmaking abilities are. "In that case, I'll take Hyrdos." Hydros is a blue griffin. His head is orange with a scar on his eye. Hydros loves playing sports and has more energy for sports than work. Hydros is the owner of Pony Central's Sports Station. "I'll take Indigo. Pegasi stick together." "I'll take my boy, Lance," Jaybird said. Lance is a green griffin. His head is yellow. Cool, calm, and collective. He knows his role and is ready to play. Lance is a gym teacher and a science teacher at Pony Central High School. "I'll take Spike the Dragon," Sunny said. "Darn it! I wanted Spike on our team," Lance said. "Oh well, maybe next time," Hydros said. "I'll take Aura," Jaybird said. Aura is a light violet griffin. Her head is yellow. She focuses her time on becoming an Olympian for her species. She trains hard with Indigo from time-to-time. "Fine, I'll take Kronos," Sunny said. Kronos is a silver griffin. His head is black. He prefers reading and spending time with friends than being alone. He is often with someone every day. Making a new friend with a different creature or helping someone in Pony Central. "Darn it, I'll take Gale," Jaybird said. Gale is a dark blue griffin. His head is white. He works at the Weather Command Station, helping pegasi time-to-time and organizes for all other weather teams. "That leads me with, Ares," Sunny said. Ares is a brown griffin. His head is blue. He is training at the Shadowbolt boot camp to become a leader for his squadron of griffins. Either than training at the boot camp, he often enters in eating contests and participates in group activities. "My team will go left. Sunny, your team will go right." "Fine with me, get ready to be annihilated," Sunny said. The two teams are now talking among themselves to set up their plays and defensives. "Hydros, you are better off helping Gale on defense. Gale is our better goalie and defender," Jaybird states. "Understood," Gale and Hydros said. "Lance and Aura. You are with me on offense. The Griffins shall prevail. The others shall be in disarray." "Spike, what is best suited for you?" Sunny asks. "I'm better on defense. Not as a goalie but as a defender. I don't have kicking strength to score. I can't be goalie cause I can't jump high enough. The ball will send me flying into the goal." "Fair enough. So who wants to be the goalie?" Sunny asks. "Heh, knowing Jaybird, he'll be mad every time I stop him from scoring. I'll be the goalie," Kronos said. "Awesome. We'll be the best defensive dynamic duo," Spike said. "We will," Kronos states. "That leaves Sunny, Ares, and I on offense. We'll take down the others," Indigo said. The two teams got together and put their hooves and claw together in unison. Now, getting ready to play soccer. From afar, Princess Cadance spots Spike and the others. She finds a cloud nearby to watch first then talk with Spike. The offensive teams move towards the center of the field. "First to five goals win," Jaybird said. "Sounds good. It'll be easy kicking your butt," Sunny said. "Sunny, use your wing to toss the ball up high to start the game," Lance said. Sunny uses her wings to toss the soccer ball in the air to start the game. "Let's do this!" Jaybird shouts excitedly. The game starts with Lance flying and kicking the soccer ball as his team moves forward. Ares intercepts the ball and kicks it towards Indigo. Indigo dribbles the ball and passes it to Sunny. Sunny dribbles the ball, however, Hydros kicks the ball away from Sunny. Jaybird swoops in and dribbles the ball the other way. Jaybird passes the ball to Aura. Spike tries to dive kick the ball away from Aura but misses. He grunts as Arua dribbles closer to the goal. Kronos gets ready. "This'll be easy," Kronos said, mockingly. Aura smirks and fake kicks the ball to psychs out Kronos. "Gotcha!" Aura said as she kicks the ball. Spike dives kick the ball as the ball goes wide right, missing the goal. "Not on my watch!" Spike said. He pounds his chest with his claw, claiming that this is his field. "Ugh...Lucky save..." Aura said. Jaybird goes to the middle, Aura is near the goal, and Lance gets in position for the corner kick. Indigo and Spike get in defense positions as Sunny and Ares are near Jaybird. Lance kicks the ball at the corner, Aura tries to headbutt the ball at the goal but fails. Kronos catches the ball. "So, close and yet, so far far away," Kronos said mockingly. "Ugh, I hate you," Aura said as she goes back on defense a little. "No, you don't," Kronos said. He kicks the ball to Indigo. "Thanks, Kronos," Indigo said, as she dribbles the ball. "Nice save, Kronos," Spike said. "You too, Spike," Kronos said. He salutes to Spike with respect. Indigo passes the ball to Sunny. Sunny uses her wings to redirect the ball to Ares. "Gotcha now, Gale," Ares said. "Bring it," Gale uses his claws to signal Ares to bring it on. Ares fake kicks the ball. Gale doesn't flinch but waits. Indigo kicks the ball the other way. The ball bounces off the goal post at a different angle and into the net. Gale is upset as he kicks the ball. "One up, slowpoke," Indigo said while she chuckles. Gale picks up the ball, now having a game face. "The only goal you'll get." Gale rolls the ball to Jaybird. He dribbles the ball down the field. Hydros decided to play offense knowingly that Gale is heated. Spike tries to dive kick the ball. He misses as Jaybird passes to Hydros. Hydros took over sending Sunny and Ares aside with his quick playmaking skills. He kicks the ball. Kronos dives and misses the block. Hydros scores for his team. The game is tied, one apiece. "You started mocking us, we'll finish by winning the game," Hydros said. "It's only getting started, fool," Ares said. The game goes on for an hour. It's a back and forth sequence of twists, turns, fake kicks, passes, and goals. Hydros scores two, Lance scores one, and Aura scores one. Indigo scores one, Sunny scores one, and Ares score two. The two teams are fatigued. Jaybird is dribbling the ball and winds up dribbles into the Spike. Jaybird kicks Spike at the goal. Kronos catches Spike. "Penalty kick," Spike said. He rubs his backside. "What?!" Jaybird whines frustratedly. "You heard me. I call a penalty kick," Spike said. "Yea, dude. You were a bit tired to notice that you were dribbling Spike instead of the ball," Lance explains. "Spike, are you alright?" Sunny and Indigo ask. The two are worried about Spike getting kicked like that. "I'll be alright. It's not the first time nor won't be the last time," Spike said. "At least it was accidental." "Yea, sorry about that. I thought you were the ball," Jaybird chuckles nervously. "Hey, it's fine, Jaybird. I know soccer is a physical sport. I knew what I was getting myself into." Jaybird sighs in relief a bit. He didn't want to cause any harm to Spike, intentionally. He knows Spike wanted to be free from that. "Alright, you call for the penalty kick, then you will kick it," Jaybird states. "Alright, I'll get into position," Gale said. "That won't be necessary, Gale. I'll do it," Jaybird said. He walks to the goal post now in position. Spike walks down and places the ball. He aims to where he wants to kick. Indigo, Sunny, Kronos, and Ares are chanting Spike's name. Spike's game face is on. Jaybird's game face is on as well. Spike run and kicks the ball. The ball ricochets off of Jaybird's face sending him flying. The ball goes in the net. "No! Nooooooo!" Gale shouts and grabs his head. He falls to his knees in shock. Indigo, Sunny, Ares, and Kronos runs up to Spike and cheers. They toss him up, celebrating as he scores then winning goal. Hydros, Aura, and Lance walk up to Jaybird. They were stunned in disbelief that the ball ricochets off of Jaybird's face. Then all of a sudden, everyone hears a loud distinctive cheer coming from the clouds above. They look up to see a happy, cheering, Princess on the cloud. Sunny, Indigo, and Spike blink twice. "Princess Cadance?" Spike shouts to grab her attention. After Princess Cadance finished her cheering, she hears Spike and blushes a bit in embarrassment. She recomposes herself and flies down softly. "My apologies for the awkward moment," Cadance said. "It's alright, Princess Cadance. Enjoyed the show?" Spike asks. "I did. The game was very entertaining and could have gone either way." "So, uh..." Spike recollect his thoughts. "What are you doing here in Pony Central, Princess Cadance?" "Right. I wanted to come by and visit you. See how you are doing and how you are fitting in. I see you made good friends with the griffons." "I have," Spike said. He looks back to the seven Griffons who nods in respect to him and Princess Cadance. "Do you have time to hang out, Spike?" "Sure. I have plenty of time. Come with us to Sugary Skies Bakery for refreshments," Spike said as he smiles. "Alright. Mind showing me where Sugary Skies Bakery is at?" "Follow us," Hydros said. The griffons lead the way to Sugary Skies Bakery with Sunny and Indigo. Princess Cadance and Spike are behind the others to have a private chat on the way to Sugary Skies Bakery. "So, how are you feeling with your memories fully restored?" Cadance asks. "I'm alright. I have different hindsight on who to forgive and who needs to earn the forgiveness from me." "Will you forgive Twilight and the others?" "Fluttershy, yes. I forgive her cause she never really done any wrong to me. Out of the six, she's been the kindest to me. I do feel a little guilty for giving her a death stare when I was angry a week and a half ago." "I can only imagine the emotions you were going through, Spike. I wish I knew how you were feeling." "It's okay now, Cadance. I made the right decision of running away from Twilight." "If you need to talk to me or need me, don't hesitate to send me a message. I'll come as soon as possible for you, Spike." "Thank you, Cadance." "You're welcome, Spike. Also, when are you going to forgive Twilight and the rest?" Spike sighs heavily. He knows deep down in his heart he'll have to forgive them for the actions they committed. He knows forgiving can be hard to give for those who do wrong. "I don't know, to be honest, Cadance," Spike sighs heavily and walks slower. "It's not now, though. I need time to forgive them someday. Right now, I want to enjoy my life with the new friends I made. I want to live my life the way I want to. Only time will tell when I forgive them." "Fair enough, Spike. I respect your wishes and decision," Cadance said. Princess Cadance and Spike hug each other for a minute. Then they caught up with the group at Sugary Skies Bakery. Princess Cadance is the last to enter the bakery. She is overwhelmed with the fresh scent of baked goods. Spike chuckles a bit as Cadance licks her lips. "Table for eleven!" Jaybird shouts. "Alright, Jaybird. There's a table by the window. I'll bring another table to connect by the window," Sour Sweet said. The group goes to the table by the window. Sour pulls another table for everyone to sit together. As they sit, Princess Cadance sits next to Spike. Sour comes up to the group waiting to take their orders. Seeing Princess Cadance in the bakery for the first time, she knows what to get. "I'll be right back, everyone," Sour said, going to the kitchen. "Hey, wait a minute, she didn't take our orders," Cadance confusingly said. "Trust us. You'll enjoy what Sour will bring you, Cadance," Spike said. "Okay, then. Can I get a hint of what Sour is giving me?" "It's something sweet, Cadance." "Alright, then." Princess Cadance tries to think of the possibilities that the bakery has to offer. The different aromas in the bakery made it harder to predict what Sour may give her. Princess Cadance licks her lips as the sensation of something sweet grows. She is eager to try what Sour is making in the kitchen as time goes by. Sour Sweet, Chocolate Pudding, and Truffles Pudding carry plates of ice cream pancakes to the table. The tradition still stands for newcomers in the bakery despite Princess Cadance not being a resident of Pony Central. Princess Cadance looks at the plate of ice cream pancakes. She is curious about this delicious treat. She watches everyone else digs into the ice cream pancake as her mouth starts to water. "Go on, Cadance. What are you waiting for?" Spike asks, now starting to eat his ice cream pancake. Princess Cadance cuts a piece of the ice cream pancake. She observes closely and wonders how something so simple can satisfy everyone in an instant. She takes a bite and instantly becomes overwhelmed with the sweet taste of the ice cream pancake. Her smile said it all to the others. Cadance eats her pancake happily as the others watch. Spike now sees how his friends reacted when he was overwhelmed with the sweet sensation for the first time. After a few minutes, Cadance finished her meal. She never ate anything that delicious until today. The ice cream pancakes surpass Pinkie's baking. Somewhere in Ponyville, Pinkie Pie has a sudden twisted twitch about her baking capabilities. "Alright, I'll admit it. That was the best dessert I ever have in my whole life. Sour Sweet," Cadance said, happily. "I want to say you are a better baker than Pinkie Pie." "Thank you, Princess." "You're welcome." "Also, thank the Pudding Family. It's their recipe after all." "Thank you, Pudding Family. It was delicious," Princess Cadance said, she bows in respect of the family. "The pleasure is ours, your highness," Chocolate Pudding said, he bows in respect and honor to Princess Cadance. "The meal is free of charge, your highness," Truffles Pudding said. "Thank you," Princess Cadance said. The group leaves Sugary Skies Bakery. "Bye, Spike, Indigo, Sunny, and Princess Cadance. See you all next time," Hydros said. Hydros and the griffins fly together, heading back to their homes near the fields. "I'll see you around, Spike. See you soon, Indigo. Take care of yourself, Princess Cadance. Hope to see you soon," Sunny said. She waves and flies back home. "So, I'm guessing your taking care of Spike for the week, Indigo?" "Yes, I am." "Mind if I talk with Spike a bit more? I'll bring him back home to you." "Sure, why not. Also, Spike can tell you how to find my place in the skies. It's not that far." "Thank you, Indigo." "You're welcome, Princess Cadance," Indigo salutes to Princess Cadance and flies back home. Princess Cadance and Spike walk down in Pony Central talking. As they walk, several ponies bow in respect to Princess Cadance. "Spike, are you happy here in Pony Central?" "Yes, Princess Cadance. I haven't been this happy in a long time." "Are you saying that to make yourself better? Do you miss living in Ponyville?" "Cadance, I don't miss Ponyville. I'm not saying to make myself better. I'm happy here in Pony Central. I have new friends and a new family to call too. I'm hanging out, partying, and having fun with friends. Something in which I haven't done much of in Ponyville nor with Twilight Sparkle. I had my first of many adventures. The only thing I haven't done is singing with friends. I'll get to that soon, though. Cadance, I want to let you know that I'm happy here. Pony Central is my home for many years to come." "I understand, Spike. Thank you for telling me this," Cadance said as she smiles. "You're welcome." Princess Cadance looks at the sky. She knows her visiting time is up, its now time for her to return to the Crystal Empire. "Well, Spike. I'll see you soon. I have to go back home now. Shining Armor has other things to attend to." "Alright, Princess Cadance. Have a safe travel." "I will, but first," Cadance puts Spike on her back. "I have to take you back to Indigo Zap," Cadance stretches her wings and flies in the skies. Spike directs Princess Cadance to Indigo's house on the clouds. She lands in front of Sky High Paradise. "Thank you, Cadance," Spike said. He gets off of her back. "You're welcome, Spike. See you next time," Cadance said as she flies to the train station. Spike walks to the door and opens it only to find out it's locked. Then he knocks on the door. He hears Indigo coming closer and opens the door. "Hey, Spike. Had a good talk with Princess Cadance?" "I did, Indigo," Spike enters the house. "So, any plans for tonight?" "Hmm, not really. Also, if you want, you can ride down the slide if you want to walk around Pony Central at night." "I don't have wings yet. How would the slide work?" Spike confusingly asks. "While you were talking with Princess Cadance, I decided to combine several clouds to create a longer slide for you. You'll have a foot drop at the end of the slide." "Okay. So, how would I get up here after my visit down there?" "There is a hot air balloon for traveling. I'm pretty sure you'll ride it back here. If not, there are other pegasi and griffins which should have no problem bringing you here. We are neighbors and do help each other a lot." "Alright then, I'll go for a nice walk down here later tonight. Maybe I'll have the chance to talk with Raven Nightwalker at the Pine Tree Library." "Sounds good, Spike." Spike walks two flights where his room is and takes a nap. Indigo goes to the music room and relax on the bean bag chair. She listens to her music as she relaxes. She hopes that tomorrow's training will be good for Spike and she hopes Spike doesn't get an injury during an intense flying drill she's been wanting to do for a long time. Only time will tell for what happens tomorrow morning.