//------------------------------//
// Brothers in Arms (Part 2) 
// Story: Kaiser 
// by MellowSoul 
//------------------------------//

During the night, Maple experienced something new - a recollection which blended dream with memory. Around the time of her death, Spike developed a longing for romantic affection. What he desired was more than a happily ever after. It was something true - something pure. He wanted to bring both the good and the bad without fear of judgement. Over time, he would iron out his flaws to become someone worthy of an angel's mercy. In the background, Maple noticed an album cover not present during her previous withdrawals. It's release coincided with Spike's return home. The label consisted of bold white lettering. She read it over in her mind.

"Sky Came Falling...10.21..."

Maple attempted to reach out, extending her hoof to comfort the dragon. As she wrapped her legs around him, the scene faded away in a veil of white...




Before the spell wore off, Maple asked Twilight about the record. To her surprise, the Alicorn didn't know anything about it.

"Let me look it up real quick."

Twilight opened her browser, locating the wiki after a few taps.

"It says it was released November 11th, 2000. It was titled after October 21st: the date the vocalist broke up with his ex. No idea how we missed it."

"Now it makes sense."

"How so?"

"Spike might've seen it in passing. The theme probably resonated with him when his view on relationships took a nosedive."

"He never told me. I would've talked some sense into him if I knew."

"I don't think you could've. Once he saw how bad things were in high school, the emotions clouded his mind. There were tons of breakups and fights between other students, especially early on. He wasn't thinking rationally. Most people thought he was weird for keeping to himself. It was a coping mechanism to deal with the stress."

"Can't say I blame him. High school's a mess. It's possible a failed relationship would've pushed him over the edge, especially after Rarity. Much as I hate to say it, he probably made the right call."

"Yeah..."

Maple gazed upon her lover. He'd suffered so much for so long. This couldn't be allowed to continue.

"No more..." she uttered, stepping to his side. She leaned down, planting her lips upon his sleeping form, "If the world tries to tear us apart, we'll burn it to ash with its rotten inhabitants. Rest well, my love. Our forever begins today..."