//------------------------------// // Chapter 13: Spike's Choice // Story: Rarity's Choice // by mikemuir0178 //------------------------------// Chapter 13: Spike’s Choice Twilight sat at her bedroom window in thought and patience as she stared off into the horizon. From her position, she could see Celestia’s castle on the mountain side and could only wonder if the princess was taking actions to help Rarity. Twilight believed Celestia would, but could she convince others to let Rarity participate in the upcoming fashion show? Twilight could only hope. “It’s always a bad sign when I find you looking out the window,” Twilight was awoken from her trance as she heard the familiar voice. As she turned her head, she saw Starlight Glimmer entering her room. “I take it things aren’t going well for Rarity,” Starlight Glimmer added as she walked to Twilight’s side. “Not really,” Twilight heaved a sigh, “She received a letter that removed her from an upcoming fashion show.” Starlight was stunned by the news. “Removed her? But…why?” “My guess is that they were pressured by other ponies who did not approve Spike and Rarity’s relationship,” Twilight theorized. “But that’s…” Starlight said in outrage. It took her a moment for her to control her anger. “I know,” Twilight said as she saw Starlight’s reaction, “But I wrote to Princess Celestia explaining the situation.” Starlight calmed herself as she looked at Twilight. “Do you think she can help?” Twilight lowered her head in thought. “I don’t know. The fashion show is a private event. It doesn’t fall within Princess Celestia’s jurisdiction.” “But you’re hoping Celestia has enough pull to change their minds,” Starlight concluded. “That’s the idea,” Twilight said, “But not a good one.” Starlight found herself trying to hold her emotions in check. A part of her wanted to climb to the tallest tower of the castle and shout out to those responsible. However, she knew that letting her anger get the better of her was not the correct way to handle the situation. “I just find it so hard on how ponies can be so against the idea of Spike and Rarity being together. It’s Rarity’s decision!” “I know,” Twilight said as she looked back out her window. “But Sassy is right. Ponies like to see their heroes in their own eyes. They want…Perfection.” “That may be true,” Starlight Glimmer replied. “But when I tried to make a perfect world, it nearly destroyed Equestria. Right now that same ‘Perfection’ is destroying everything Rarity created.” “And Spike,” Twilight admitted, “He cares for Rarity deeply. I’m sure he feels responsible for bringing this on her.” Starlight sighed as she realized Twilight was right. “So…I’m guessing you are waiting for Celestia’s response,” Starlight said. Twilight nodded. “If Rarity is admitted back into that fashion show, she can show ponies what she can do for them. Maybe take their minds off this whole ordeal.” . “But do you really think it will work?” Starlight asked, “Even if she does impress the audience with a new dress, the rumor will still come back and haunt her eventually.” “I know,” Twilight looked to the ground, “But it’s better than just sitting around and doing nothing.” Twilight then turned back to Starlight. “Maybe ponies will forget the gossip. Maybe we can wait it out like the Friendship Journal incident.” Twilight then let out a sigh. “I just don’t know anymore. But I need to do something.” Starlight hoped Twilight’s plan would work. Rarity was one of her closest friends and deserved better. As for Spike…Starlight admitted that her interest in the little dragon was almost like Twilight’s. Spike was like the little brother she never had and she wanted to see him happy. What was happening to the two of them now was inexcusable. Starlight’s thoughts were interrupted the next moment as a swirl of magic danced above Twilight’s head. The next moment, the magic materialized into a scroll that fell in front of Twilight. Twilight wasted no time opening the scroll to see Celestia’s response. Silently she read the script, however, her demeanor did not change. “What does it say?” Starlight asked. Twilight looked up from the scroll and turned to Starlight. A small smile decorated her face. “She managed to convince the committee to let Rarity back in.” Starlight’s mood brightened. “That’s great news!” “Almost,” Twilight said as she looked back to the letter, “It says she only managed to get the committee to allow Rarity to show off only ONE dress. Not an entire lineup.” “What?” Starlight said as she used her magic to take the letter from Twilight and read it. “This isn’t fair!” Starlight shouted angrily. “I know…” Twilight averted her gaze with half lidded eyes. She then looked back at Starlight, “But it’s better than nothing.” Starlight put the letter down and looked to Twilight. “What are you going to do now?” Starlight asked. Twilight stood up and rolled the letter up with her magic. “Well…I need to let Rarity know what’s happening. She still has a chance.” “It’s a slim chance,” Starlight added. She then noticed Twilight was walking to the bedroom door. “Is there anything I can do to help?” Twilight paused as she reached the door. “I think the only one who can help Rarity now is Rarity.” Twilight then left the room to deliver the news to her friend. After Twilight left the room, Starlight turned her focus to the window and looked outside. However, unlike Twilight, Starlight instead looked in the direction of the Carousel Boutique. “I hope she can do it.” X==X==X==X==X “Are you sure this is what Rarity needs? This Ivory…um?” Spike asked as he eyed the paper bag of fabric he now held in his claws. “Ivory Chantilly Lace,” Sassy replied flatly as she followed Spike down the streets of Ponyville. “Right,” Spike said as he looked back at Sassy, “I mean Rarity was not exactly specific on what type of lace she needed.” Sassy made no response. “I mean she did say she needed ‘some’ kind of lace, but was not that specific,” Spike said. Sassy made no response. With a heavy sigh, Spike admitted defeat in trying to make small talk with Sassy. The two had been sent to gather the last material needed for the wedding dress while Rarity remained at the boutique to make some adjustments. The last thing Rarity needed was a lace to drape over the outside of the gown. Although Spike had thought Rarity would be the one to accompany him, Sassy had suggested that she go with Spike instead while Rarity made adjustments to the dress. However, much to Spike’s disappointment, Sassy was not in the mood to talk with him, especially with small talk. “Perhaps it was best,” Spike thought. He admitted he was not fond of Sassy at the moment, and the last thing he wanted to do was argue with her. He knew Sassy was only trying her best to help Rarity, he just didn’t agree with her solution. Still that was no reason for him not to try to rectify things with her. Spike then caught something in the corner of his eye as he walked the streets of Ponyville. Turning his head, he saw a magazine stand was stationed along the road he and Sassy had taken. As he glanced at the papers being advertised, he saw Rarity’s picture on the front of one of them. “Wait here,” Spike said as he turned to Sassy Saddles, “I’m going to check something out.” Spike then ran to the stand before Sassy could say anything. Sassy was left stunned for a moment by Spike’s sudden departure. After recovering from her initial surprise, she followed Spike to the magazine stand. However, she maintained a small distance behind him. She only watched as the little dragon pulled one of the newspapers and examined the front page. “What? This isn’t right!” Spike said in outrage. Sassy tilted her head to one side so she could see over Spike’s head. What she saw was a picture of Rarity and Spike on the front cover. For her, it was no surprise. A part of her did wonder what the newspaper said, but she was unable to read the words over Spike’s shoulder. A part of her wasn’t sure she wanted to know. “How can ponies print something like this?” Spike demanded. Sassy gave a small snort. “Reporters are not interested in truth. Their job is only to entertain the public,” Sassy replied, “They are only interested in providing stories ponies will be interested in reading.” “Even if it hurts others in the process?” Spike asked. “It’s what the public wants,” Sassy replied. What the public wanted. As Spike looked back down at the newspaper, he was reminded of a similar incident when the Cutie Mark Crusaders had published the articles under their alias name, Gabby Gums. Just like Gabby Gums had warped the truth, the reporters had done the same thing with what his friends had said. What was now printed appeared to be a scandalous affair between him and Rarity. Much to Spike’s displeasure, he saw the newspaper refer to him as a baby. Why couldn’t they understand he was just…short…for a dragon? Spike also noticed the section that showed Rainbow Dash in a wedding dress claiming it belonged to Rarity. As he continued to read, it was no wonder why ponies called his love with Rarity unnatural. “Do you really think this is all true?” “Well…It is in the paper, so…maybe it is.” Spike looked up from his newspaper when he heard the two voices. After a quick look around, he spotted the two ponies who had spoken. They were sitting on a bench nearby and had their heads buried in the same newspaper he had been reading. Neither one suspected Spike was listening in on them. Spike did not recognize the two ponies, but he was pretty sure they were residents of Ponyville. “But would Rarity really do something so…uncouth?” the first pony asked. “I suppose…It certainly looks that way,” the second pony said. Uncouth. It was a word Spike had heard Rarity use in past occasions. However, to hear it being used to describe her seemed wrong. Granted she could be stuck up at times, but Spike could hardly call that uncouth. A part of him could only wonder what Rarity would think if she heard such a word being used to address her. Such a word would definitely crush her spirits. Spike felt his emotions rise, but kept his temper in check. He refused to let others talk about the pony he loved in such a manner. Rarity was anything but uncouth. She deserved better. “Hey!” The two ponies looked up from the newspaper as they heard Spike call out. “Huh?” the first pony replied, “Wait. That’s…” “Spike?” the second said in surprise. “Don’t listen to what’s in the newspaper!” Spike shouted, “It’s all a bunch of lies!” The two ponies looked to each other questioningly. They then looked back at Spike. “But everything it says was verified by your friends,” the first pony replied. “It’s not true. It’s just like those Gabby Gums columns we had a few years ago,” Spike answered. “But what about the photographs and the wedding dress? Those can’t be faked.” “Well, that’s…” Spike found himself at a loss since he was not present when the event occurred. He knew Rainbow Dash had been caught off guard, but why she said the dress was Rarity’s wedding dress still eluded him. “And you are still a baby, right?” the second added. Spike gave a snort. “I’m just…short,” he reluctantly admitted. “I’ve already had my first molt which means I’m old enough to go out on my own! That makes me an adult!” The two ponies looked at each other before turning to Spike. “Ah…What’s a molt?” the first asked. It took a moment for Spike to remember that very few ponies knew about dragon society or customs. For a moment, Spike considered telling the ponies about the molt effect. How young dragons were kicked out of their parent’s homes to go off on their own when they shed their first set of scales. However, he knew that was deviating from the subject at hand. “Let’s just say it’s a phase when a dragon becomes an adult,” he replied, “But that’s beside the point.” “I guess…we can take your word on that,” the first pony said reluctantly, “But still. Whoever heard of a pony and a dragon being together?” “Yeah. I think you’ve taken this silly crush of yours too far,” the second replied. Silly crush. The words stung Spike’s heart as he heard them. He admitted that many ponies in Ponyville considered his love with Rarity a joke. Some even believed Rarity was taking advantage of his services. But Spike had every opportunity to leave her if he wanted to. Even when he was spending time with Gabby, he still wanted to be with Rarity. “It’s not some ‘silly crush’!” Spike argued. “Spike. Rarity is a nice pony. But perhaps you should stop this charade before it goes too far,” the first pony said. “Yeah. Dragons and ponies just don’t go together,” the second added, “They’re just…too different.” For a moment Spike considered telling them it was possible since he was the offspring of such a union. The only problem was that his mother, Grey Shire, was a recluse and very few ponies knew she existed. The ponies could easily argue he was only making things up. He had no proof. The two ponies could see the hesitation in Spike’s face. The first pony then stood up and approached Spike. “Spike. Rarity deserves better than this. She has worked too hard to get where she is now.” Spike found himself stunned as he found that the ponies were saying was almost the same exact words Sassy had said earlier. Although he wanted to tell them it was possible for ponies and dragons to be together, he was too shocked to let the words escape his lips. “Yeah. I mean…don’t you find any interest in your own kind?” the second pony continued. Spike considered both Ember and Smolder for a moment, but they were only just friends to him. They lived in the dragon world which was not the world he wished to live in. “I’m not interested in them. I love Rarity.” “But you’re hurting everything Rarity created,” the first pony said, “I mean…It took her years to just to build the Carousel Boutique alone.” Spike was caught off guard when the pony made reference to the Carousel Boutique. Immediately his mind thought back to the story Rarity had shared with him. About how the Carousel Boutique was created. How Rarity had given everything she had and how her parents had helped build it. How they helped build her dream. And now, he could be destroying it. Spike didn’t want that. “This figment of yours is only hurting her,” the first pony continued. “It’s not a figment!” Spike burst out. “Spike,” the first pony said, “This joke has gone on long enough. You need to let it go.” A joke. “Yeah,” the second pony said, “Rarity can’t entertain you forever. I think you need to just forget about this silly crush and find another dragon to be with.” For the longest time, Spike knew that’s how ponies perceived his feeling for Rarity. His interest in her was only seen as a joke to other ponies. Even his closest friends, including Twilight, once doubted he had any real chance at Rarity. Only the fact that he remained true to his heart did he finally win Rarity’s affection. But how could he prove that. How could he show that it was possible for a dragon and pony to be together. How could he do it without hurting Rarity’s reputation? “Spike?” the first pony asked when she realized Spike was not responding, “Are you okay?” For a moment, Spike wanted to shout his feelings back. However, he knew that getting into an argument would not solve anything and might only end up hurting Rarity’s reputation. “I…I need to go,” Spike said as he withheld the tears that now formed in his eyes. Before either pony could respond, Spike quickly turned around and ran as fast as he could down the street. The two ponies were left stunned by Spike’s sudden departure. Seeing the surprised look on the ponies, Sassy Saddles decided to intervene on Spike’s behalf. “My apologies for his action,” she said to the two ponies as she bowed her head. She then gave chase to Spike. The two ponies only looked at each other before watching Sassy follow after Spike. X==X==X==X==X As Sassy raced down the street, she had temporarily lost sight of the little dragon. In her mind, she wondered how such a creature with short legs could run so fast. However, as she passed by a nearby alley, she caught sight of a familiar emerald green crest in the corner of her eye. Quickly she stopped and went back to the alley to find Spike sitting on the ground. Spike made no motion to move as she approached. “I suppose you’re going to say ‘I told you so’,” Spike said flatly as Sassy stood over him. It was not hard for Sassy to see how devastated Spike was. To hear the same words she said being repeated by total strangers…It was a cruel reminder that what she spoke of was the truth. However, Sassy found herself taking pity for the little dragon in front of her. “Maybe you’re right,” Spike continued as tears started flowing down his cheeks, “Maybe dragons and ponies shouldn’t be together.” Sassy felt her heart ache as she heard this. “Do you really believe that?” “I don’t know what to believe anymore,” Spike replied, “All I wanted was to be with Rarity.” Sassy remained silent as she offered her ear. “But…How can I be with her if I’m destroying her dreams,” Spike continued after a moment. Sassy shifted around and sat down next to Spike. As she did, she placed a comforting hoof on his shoulder. “I’m sure over time dragons and ponies being together will be accepted. Just…not now.” Spike could only wonder how long it would take before that time came. Could he wait that long? It already had taken him years just for him to win Rarity’s heart. Would he be willing to wait longer? An even better question, would Rarity be willing to wait for that long? Spike hoped she would, but could not say for sure. Between his six best friends, Rarity was the only one who had been actively looked for that special someone. And…for a time…he was that special someone. But was it right to have her wait until dragons and ponies could be accepted together…assuming it ever happened. Spike wasn’t sure he could ask Rarity to wait that long. “I don’t know what to do anymore,” Spike said after a brief moment. For a moment, Sassy considered telling Spike what she thought he always should have done. Yet, as she looked at the little dragon, she could not bring herself to do so. “Do you still think that I should leave Rarity?” Spike asked Sassy as he looked up to her. Sassy was a little surprised by the question. For a moment, she saw a chance to end the tragedy and tell Spike he needed to leave in order to help Rarity. But as she saw the tears in Spike’s eyes, she found herself unable to tell Spike what she thought was necessary. The dragon’s tears reminded her too much of the tears Rarity had shed earlier. “I think…you should do what you think is right,” Sassy said after a brief moment of thought. Spike looked back down at the ground and gave a heavy sigh. In his mind, he could only wonder what was for the best. Should he continue his relationship with Rarity or should he let her pursue her dream? X==X==X==X==X Rarity placed her head close to the dress and examined the stitching on the trim. As she did, she found herself humming a small tune. For her, the work she had done on the wedding dress had allowed her to momentarily forget the troubles she faced in the world. She was now doing what she enjoyed and the thrill of seeing the bride’s reaction to the dress kept her spirits up. After making some adjustments to the dress, Rarity stood back and examined her work. To her surprise and delight, the dress appeared even better than before. Having to remake the dress had allowed her to clearly see all the flaws on the first version. Once Spike came back with the lace, it would only take a few quick stitches and her work would be complete. As Rarity thought this, she heard her front door open. Quickly she turned to see Spike and Sassy enter the boutique. In Spike’s hands, she saw the package she sought. “Spike. Is that the lace I needed?” “Uh…Yeah,” Spike said as he held up the lace he had been carrying. Rarity wasted no time in using her magic to unwrap the lace from the protective paper covering. She then used her magic to unroll it in front of her so she could examine it. “Excellent. This is just what I needed,” Rarity said happily as she walked back to the wedding dress and began to gently place the lace on the dress. As she did, she began to hum a small tune. For a brief moment, Spike listened happily to the tune Rarity hummed. There was no doubt in his mind that Rarity enjoyed what she did. He admired how Rarity took the time to examine every stitch and thread. Rarity was aiming to create the perfect dress for her customer, and she was enjoying every moment of it. This was the dream Rarity wanted. Spike then frowned as he began to remember what Sassy had said earlier. “I know you are special to Rarity, but you cannot pursue a relationship with her. Not if you want help preserve her dream.” The words echoed in Spike’s head as he watched over Rarity. Could he really take that dream away from her? Would it be right for him to rob her of her desires just so he could be with her? For a moment, Spike wondered what it would be like if Rarity did choose him over her career. He admitted he wanted their relationship to be more than friends or special. He would do everything he could to please her. Just seeing her gentle smile would make his heart leap for joy. It would be a dream come true. But that would be his dream. As Spike watched Rarity work, he could see she was already happy doing what she did. To see her humming to herself as she worked allowed Spike to see the traits he most adored about Rarity. In dragon society, it was strength and willpower that dragons found most appealing, and Spike was no exception. Though he initially fell for her looks, it quickly grew beyond that as Spike saw Rarity’s strength, will, and determination to bring beauty to others. But would she be the same pony he fell in love with if she had to give up her career? For Spike, it was her relentless desire to bring happiness to others through fashion that made Rarity beautiful in his eyes. If he took away that, she would not be the same pony he fell in love with. He wanted Rarity to remain who she was. He wanted Rarity to be…Rarity. “There,” Rarity said as she applied the final stitch and stood back to examine her work, “That should do it. What do you think Spike?” Spike took a moment to examine the dress. He could see that Rarity had put a lot of care into the stitches and material. There was no doubt in his mind that Rarity had applied both time, love, and contour into her work. “It…looks great,” Spike replied hesitantly. For a brief moment, Rarity thought Spike saw a flaw in the dress. However, as she turned around to face him, she saw there was something else on his mind. “Spike? Are you okay?” “Yeah,” Spike said as he averted his eyes down to avoid meeting Rarity’s. If he looked upon her now, he felt he would not have the strength to say what needed to be said. “Did something happen?” Rarity asked in concern as she walked up to Spike to face him. When Spike did not look up, Rarity took a quick glance at Sassy for an answer. Sassy only responded by tilting her head away and also avoiding Rarity’s gaze. For Spike, there was no avoiding the issue. Something had to be said. “It’s just…On our way back…we ran into some ponies,” Spike began, “They were reading those articles about…us.” Rarity looked back down to Spike. Her face shifted from one of concern to solitude. “I see. They didn’t give you any trouble I hope.” Spike shook his head. “Good,” Rarity replied. She then turned back to look at the dress. “The last thing I want is for anyone to hurt any of your precious scales.” “But…They were talking about you,” Spike continued. Rarity let out a deep sigh. “It seems this ‘gossip problem’ is spreading into Ponyville now too.” Spike could tell Rarity was trying be strong, but the events that happened had worn her down. How long would it be before she succumbed? “I suppose it could not be helped,” Rarity stuttered as she continued to look at the dress, “Well…We’ll just have to weather through it then.” Spike could hear that Rarity was doing her best to stay strong, but it was not hard to see the tears in her eyes. A part of him cursed himself for telling her what he heard. He had literally just robbed her of all the joy she had just a few moments ago. This was not what he wanted. He wanted Rarity to be happy. Once more, he could hear Sassy’s voice inside his head. “I know you are special to Rarity, but you cannot pursue a relationship with her. Not if you want help preserve her dream.” Rarity’s happiness depended on her dream. If she was forced to give it up for him, would she really be happy. Could he make her happy? ”Is this the right thing to do?” Spike asked himself. Rarity barely caught what Spike had said. Quickly, she looked back at Spike in concern. “Pardon? Did you say something, Spike?” Spike sighed in defeat when he realized Rarity had heard him. “I’m just wondering…Is this the right thing to do?” “What do you mean, Spike?” Rarity asked in concern. “I mean…trying to ‘weather through’ this situation,” Spike said, “To wait it out.” Rarity let out a heavy sigh. She could not hide from the truth. “I admit. It won’t be easy. But I’ve dealt with situations like this before.” “But…You almost lost your business the last time, didn’t you?” Spike said. Rarity turned back to the wedding dress as she looked back at the events concerning the Friendship Journal. She remembered how ponies had ‘boycotted’ her for her entries in the book. The event had nearly ruined her. Yet, she had pulled through, if only just barely. “I’m…sure we can get through this…somehow.” It was not hard for Spike to hear the hesitation in Rarity’s voice. “I just don’t want to see you endure that again,” Spike continued. Rarity could tell the little dragon was trying to protect her. “It won’t be easy. But…I will find a way to endure this,” she replied, though there was a hint of uncertainty in her voice. Spike could hear this in her voice. He could see that Rarity was struggling with the events and was probably scared. Unfortunately, he could find no answer that allowed her to be with him while holding onto her dream. If he wanted to make Rarity happy, he needed to let her go. “Rarity, I think you need some time to overcome this.” Rarity was caught off guard by the little dragon’s words. Quickly she turned around to face him. “Spike?” “I can’t…I don’t want to be the one that robs you of your happiness. When I see you work on your dresses, I see a pony full of strength and will. Someone I want to be with. But…if…” Spike trailed off for a second. “Spike. We’ve been through this,” Rarity replied. “I know…It’s just that…I don’t want to see you hurt anymore. You mean so much to me,” Spike stuttered between tears, “But…being with you now has caused so many problems. I don’t…I don’t want to be a burden to you anymore!” Rarity was left stunned as she heard those words. Though she tried to speak, her voice failed her. “I love everything about you, Rarity. Your strength. Your beauty. Your determination to uphold your dreams. But if I stay with you now, I will only be destroying everything I love about you,” Spike cried. Realizing what he was saying, Rarity reached out to her hoof out. “Spike…” Rarity called out, but her voice only sounded like a whisper. Spike backed away from her gentle touch. “I don’t want to be the one that destroys everything you created. It makes you the pony I fell in love with,” Spike said, “I want to see you succeed in fulfilling your dream.” Rarity felt her chest ache as she heard those words. “Spike…I-“ “I can’t stay. I…I need to go!” Spike said as he quickly turned around and ran for the entrance of the boutique. “Spike!” Rarity cried as she gave chase. However as she saw Spike exit the boutique, she could only watch in horror as the little dragon launched himself into the air. As she exited her boutique, she looked up into the sky. She could only watch as the little dragon faded into a speck, and was then gone. “Spike…” For a few moments, Rarity could only stare into the air. With tears covering her cheeks, she hoped by some miracle Spike would circle around and come back to her. But as the minutes passed, Rarity saw that was not to be. Instead, with her head hung low, she made way back into the boutique. As she walked back inside, the first thing that caught her vision was the wedding dress. The latest in many projects that had helped create her ultimate goal in life. She had created hundreds of dresses to reach the top in the fashion world like she always wanted. But with Spike gone, Rarity began to realize how lonely the top of the fashion world was. Without Spike in her life, her boutique now seemed so…empty. She needed the support of her Spikey-Wikey. His confidence and praise were what gave her the drive to aspire. “You were a part of that dream too, Spike,” Rarity admitted to herself. For a moment, Rarity felt the emptiness of the boutique close in on her. What would she do? What could she do? “I’m sorry, Rarity.” Rarity awoke from her thoughts and turned her head. At the side of the room, she saw Sassy Saddles standing in the corner. Immediately, Rarity felt her sorrow turn to rage as she gazed upon the unicorn. “Is this what you wanted? Are you happy now?” Rarity demanded. Sassy made no attempt to escape Rarity’s scorn. She knew she would have to face it and was prepared for the worst. “No,” Sassy replied, “And I won’t ask for forgiveness.” “You did this! You and all those…!” Rarity cried in anger. A part of her hoped Sassy would fight back so she could take her anger on her. But Sassy didn’t fight back. She was accepting Rarity’s judgement. “Please believe me when I say I didn’t want to hurt you. I was only trying to help,” Sassy replied truthfully, “I’ll…understand if you no longer wish to have me around,” Sassy continued. For a moment, Rarity considered lashing out again. She wanted to throw all her pain and sorrow she felt onto Sassy. But as she stared at the sorrow filled unicorn, she found she could not. Deep inside, Rarity knew Sassy was not responsible for what happened. The unicorn had stayed by her side through the hardest of times and Rarity did not want to lose another close friend. Instead, she succumbed to the cruel hand fate had given her. “Spike…Spike wanted me to continue my dream,” Rarity replied as she averted her gaze to hide her tears. She then reluctantly looked back at Sassy. “And…I’ll need your help…” “Rarity I-“ “Just...” Rarity burst out in tears the next moment, “I need to be alone!” Sassy could only watch as Rarity raced up the stairs to her bedroom. Slowly she walked to the foot of the steps and looked up toward Rarity’s bedroom. After listening to the bedroom door slam, she could hear the sounds of a young maiden crying over her lost love. The sound made Sassy’s heart ache in pain. “I’m so sorry, Rarity…” X==X==X==X==X Twilight made her way down the streets of Ponyville carrying the note from Princess Celestia. She knew it would not solve all of Rarity’s problems, but it could bring Rarity some hope to hear that she had been accepted back into the Canterlot Fashion Show. At the very least, it could temporarily fix the problem at hand until a better solution presented itself. As she was walking along the street, she noticed a small purple form in the air. At first, she thought it was another Pegasus, but as the form passed over head, she saw it was too small and did not have a mane or tail. “Spike?” Twilight said as she watched the form fly over her. The little dragon did not respond, but Twilight doubted it heard her since she did not shout. As she saw Spike disappear into the distance, she noticed that he had been heading for the Castle of Friendship. He did seem like he was in quite a rush. Was he getting something for Rarity or maybe heading back to fetch her? For a moment Twilight considered following after the little dragon. However if he was running an errand for Rarity, Twilight thought she probably should not disturb him. If he was trying to fetch her…well…she was nearly at the Carousel Boutique anyway. It would be counterproductive to head back to the castle and then head to the boutique. At the very least, Starlight could tell him where she was. Spike would just have to fly back and meet her there. Deciding not to dwell on the matter any further, Twilight proceeded to the Carousel Boutique. Rarity would most certainly want to hear the news she brought. After a little more walking, she finally reached her destination and used her magic to open the door. A smile decorated her face as she entered the boutique. “Hey guys! I got…good…” Twilight began to pause as she noticed how empty the boutique felt. To her surprise, she also could hear crying coming from the second floor. It was not hard for Twilight to realize it was Rarity. Immediately her emotions shifted from happiness to concern as she looked around the boutique. It took her only a moment to spot Sassy staring up the stairs. Immediately, Twilight marched to the pony. “What happened? What’s going on?” Sassy looked at Twilight for a moment and then lowered her head. “Spike left Rarity.” “WHAT?” Twilight cried in surprise. Her surprise quickly changed to anger as she looked at Sassy. “What did you do?” Sassy made no response as she turned her head away. “Why did Spike leave?” Twilight demanded. “He…Wanted to protect Rarity,” Sassy replied after a brief pause. Twilight felt her anger rise as she looked at the light blue unicorn. “Did you ruin Spike and Rarity’s relationship?” Twilight continued, Sassy stood her ground as she faced Twilight’s intimidating gaze. “I’m not proud of what I did. My only interest was to protect Rarity’s dream.” Twilight thought she should shout something back in retaliation, but no amount of words would fix the problem at hand. Instead, she decided to focus her attention on Rarity instead. From the amount of crying she heard, Rarity was surely heart broken. “We’ll discuss this later. Right now I’m going to see Rarity,” Twilight said as she collected herself. She then pushed her way past Sassy and quickly made her way up the stairs. Sassy said nothing and only averted her gaze in response. As Twilight neared Rarity’s room, she saw the door had been closed. For a moment, Twilight feared it might be locked. Though it was possible for Twilight to teleport in, she did not want to startle Rarity inside. Instead, Twilight applied her magic to the door knob. To her surprise, it was not locked. Cautiously, she opened the door and peered inside. It did not take her long to spot Rarity on her bed. She was laying on her stomach, covering part of her face with her hooves. Slowly, Twilight made her way forward. “Rarity?” Twilight said in concern. Rarity made no response to Twilight’s intrusion. Twilight made it up to the side of Rarity’s bed side before she spoke again. “Rarity. Are you okay?” “Leave me alone!” Rarity shouted out loud before burying her face back into her hooves. For a moment, Twilight found herself unsure on what to say. When it came to matters of love, Twilight realized she had little to no experience. Still, she had to say something. “Sassy told me what happened. I’m sure Spike did not mean to hurt you.” As Rarity continued to sob, a single word could be heard. “..Me…” Twilight looked down at her friend. “Pardon?” “He…me…” Rarity squeaked again without looking up. “I’m sorry. I can’t-“ Twilight began. “HE LOVES ME!” Rarity shouted out as she sat up for a brief moment, throwing her hooves into the air. Tears rained down from her eyes as she said this before she collapsed onto her bed again. “Rarity…” “He loves me…and…I’ve lost him!” Rarity cried as she buried her face. Instinctively, Twilight reached down and brought Rarity up into a gentle embrace. With one hoof, she gently stroked Rarity’s main in hopes of calming her like a mother would calm her daughter. “It’s okay. I’ll help you,” Twilight gently cooed. After a brief moment, Rarity calmed down enough and looked Twilight in the eyes. “Oh Twilight….What am I going to do?” Rarity cried, “I’ve looked for love for so long…And the one I fell in love with…IS A DRAGON!” Twilight only gently looked back at Rarity. “Tell me what happened.” Tears continued to pour from Rarity’s eyes. “He wanted…to…protect me,” “Protect you?” Twilight asked. Rarity nodded as she looked at Twilight. “Why must all of Equestria be against me?! Why can’t ponies see what we share?” Rarity cried before she broke away from Twilight’s embrace and collapsed onto the bed again. “All I wanted was to feel loved!” Twilight placed a comforting hoof on her shoulder. “I wish I had all answers. But I don’t,” Twilight said. Rarity looked up at Twilight with pleading eyes. “There must be something,” Rarity begged, “You’re the princess of friendship.” Twilight could see Rarity was desperately searching for an answer to her problem. She wanted to tell Rarity that everything would be all right, but found she couldn’t. All Twilight could do was frown and avert her eyes. “I wish there was.” Rarity let out a small whimper as she heard Twilight’s response. Whatever hope she had seemed to drain away from her eyes. Twilight immediately saw this, but she knew Rarity needed to be strong if she was to handle what lie ahead. “For now, Rarity, you need focus on the work in front of you. You still have that upcoming fashion show, right?” Twilight said as she tried to help Rarity to her feet. “What’s the point?!” Rarity shouted as she collapsed back down. Twilight remained silent as she looked down at her friend. “Spike was a part of my dream,” Rarity whimpered, “He was always by my side to support me…And now…” a fountain of tears then erupted from her eyes, “I’ve lost him!” Twilight could not deny the support Spike had given Rarity through the years. It was more than just helping her move stuff or being her assistant. He had offered her guidance and companionship. Twilight could see that the relationship between Rarity and Spike was beyond special. “If only other ponies could understand this,” Twilight thought. Twilight then remembered the note from Celestia. Though she knew that it would not bring happiness to Rarity, it was needed recover part of her dream. “I know this is going to be hard, but you need to move forward.” “But…” Rarity cried. Twilight helped Rarity up again and placed the scroll she received from Celestia into Rarity’s hooves. “I received this letter from Celestia,” Twilight explained, “She says fashion committee is willing to let you back into the fashion show.” Rarity looked down at the scroll in her hooves, but showed no interest in it. Twilight hoped Rarity might feel a little happiness, but saw none. “This is your chance to reclaim part of your dream,” Twilight cheered, “Don’t let it go to waste.” Rarity made a small whimper. “I…I don’t…” Rarity moaned, “I can’t…” Twilight could see that Rarity’s heart was truly crushed. If she hoped to reach her friend, she needed to motivate her. “Do it…” she said after a moment of pause, “Do it for Spike.” Rarity looked up to Twilight with tears in her eyes. “Spike?” “He left because he wanted you to pursue your dream, right?” Twilight asked. Rarity let out a whimper. “Don’t let Spike’s sacrifice be for nothing,” Twilight implored, “Do what you can to bring your dream back for now.” “But…what about Spike?” Rarity sobbed. Twilight let out a sigh. “I’ll talk with him. I’m sure he still wants to be with you,” Twilight encouraged, “Just concentrate on the fashion show for now.” Rarity lowered her eyes to the ground in sadness. “I’ll…I’ll try…” Twilight could see the pain in Rarity’s eyes. If ever there was a time she saw how much of an impact Spike had made in Rarity’s life, it was now. A part of Twilight wanted to stay and comfort her friend, but she also knew she had to go to Spike’s side as well. There was no doubt in her mind that Spike would be feeling crushed as well and he would need her at his side. “You can do this Rarity.” Rarity said nothing as tears continued to flow down her cheeks. As Twilight watched Rarity’s tears, she quickly reached out and gave Rarity a supportive hug. “We’ll find a way to fix this. I promise.” Rarity said nothing as she felt Twilight’s warm embrace. She wanted to believe Twilight words, but she could not see any bright future ahead. Only emptiness. Reluctantly, Twilight parted. “You can do this.” Rarity only whimpered a little as she lowered her head. Twilight wanted to stay, but she felt as if she had done all she could for now. It was now up to Rarity to fix things. Reluctantly, she left the room and headed down the stairs. X==X==X==X==X As Twilight and made her way down the steps, she saw Sassy Saddles waiting patiently below. The unicorn appeared concerned and anxious about Rarity’s well-being. Once more, Twilight felt her anger surge, but she kept her emotions in check. Now was not the time to fight. “Is she…” Sassy asked hesitantly. Twilight shook her head. “She’s really depressed,” Twilight replied. Sassy lowered her head. “I want to do something to help, but I don’t know what to do anymore.” Although Twilight was reluctant to admit it, she knew Sassy was only doing what she thought was best for Rarity. She also knew Rarity needed help to prepare for the fashion show. Unfortunately, Sassy was probably the only one who could support her now. “I need you to help Rarity prepare for that fashion show.” Sassy looked up at Twilight questionably. “But…” “We need to somehow bring back Rarity’s dream and I can’t think of anyone else better suited for the task now,” Twilight continued, “You’re the only one I know who can help her prepare for the fashion show.” But…I don’t think she…” Sassy replied. “If you want to earn her forgiveness, then help her now!” Twilight commanded. For a moment, Sassy considered Twilight’s words. “I’ll…I’ll do what I can.” Twilight was still unsure if she could put her faith in Sassy after all that happened. However she knew Sassy was Rarity’s friend and was only doing what she thought was right. “I’m depending you.” Sassy nodded to show she understood. “I’ll…I’ll take her back to Canterlot. We can prepare for the fashion show there.” Twilight nodded her approval. With the fashion show coming up, it seemed like the logical decision. For now she had other matters to attend. “Do what you can,” Twilight said, “I need to address some other matters.” Sassy felt her heart ache even more as she realized Twilight was referring to Spike. “Tell...Tell Spike I’m sorry.” Twilight nodded, but said nothing. She then gathered the magic in her horn. In a bright flash of lavender magic, she vanished the next moment. Sassy steeled herself after Twilight had left and looked back up the stairs. Whatever happened, she would do all she could to help Rarity. The only thing she wanted now was Rarity’s forgiveness. X==X==X==X==X With a flash of lavender magic, Twilight appeared back in the entranceway of the Castle of Friendship. Although she had considered teleporting directly to Spike’s room, she did not want to surprise the little dragon by suddenly appearing in front of him. “Spike?” Twilight called out. There was no answer. Twilight doubted he would answer. She could only imagine the pain he was feeling. Rarity had meant everything to the little dragon. Quickly, Twilight decided to proceed to Spike’s room. It seemed only logical that Spike would hide in his room for some solitude. As she made her way down the halls of the castle, she saw Starlight standing at the door that led to Spike’s room. The pony stood staring at the door and appeared worried. “Starlight?” Starlight turned around and faced her friend. “Twilight!” Starlight said in surprise, “I’m glad you’re back.” “Is it because of Spike,” Twilight asked as she walked to Starlight’s side. Starlight nodded. “He returned not long ago. He seems…distressed.” Twilight looked at Spike’s door and tried to listen for the little dragon. She heard nothing, but suspected that Spike was probably curled up on his bed. “Did something happen?” Starlight asked as she looked to Twilight. Twilight nodded in response. “I’m going to go check on him.” “Should I come in too?” Starlight asked. Twilight considered Starlight’s offer for a moment. Like her, Spike was like a little brother to Starlight. However, Twilight was not sure Spike was in the mood for company and did not want to overcrowd him. “Let me talk with him first.” Starlight reluctantly nodded. “I’ll wait out here if you need me.” Twilight nodded her approval. She then applied her magic to the door. Fortunately, she found the door was not locked and did not have to force her way in. Slowly she proceeded inside. As Twilight entered the room, she found the room appeared darker than the hall of the castle. All the drapes had been pulled shut and all the lights had been turned off. What little light there was came from the outside hallway. Fortunately, there was just enough light for Twilight to see Spike’s bed and the little dragon covered by a sheet on top of it. “Spike?” No response. Twilight entered the room and closed the door to give them some privacy. The room grew darker, but Twilight was still able to see the young dragon. Slowly, she made her way forward. “Spike? Are you okay?” “Just…leave me alone,” Spike mumbled. Twilight stood at the edge of the bed and looked at the small form underneath the sheet. For a moment she considered pulling the sheet away like she usually did when she was waking Spike, but then decided against it. Instead she climbed onto the corner of the bed and placed a reassuring hoof on the small mound. “I heard what happened with Rarity,” Twilight said, “Do you want to talk about it?” “No…” a muffled voice groaned. Twilight could hear that Spike was trying to suppress his tears underneath the covers. “I just came from Rarity’s. She was devastated about how you left her.” Spike only sniffed under the covers in response. “She wants you to come back,” Twilight continued. There was no response. “She could really use your help,” Twilight added. The dragon shifted under the covers as if he was rolling himself into a tighter ball. “I can’t,” he replied. His voice on the edge of tears. “Spike…” Twilight said. “I can’t go back,” Spike replied again, “I can’t…” For a moment, Twilight remained silent as she looked down at her little brother. “Spike. Rarity loves you very much. And I know you have the same feelings for her. You shouldn’t leave her like this.” Spike sat up suddenly and stared angrily at Twilight. “Do you think I wanted to leave her?” he growled, “All I wanted to do was be with her!” Twilight was a little surprised at first on how Spike erupted from the covers. The dragon starred back at her angrily for disturbing him. Yet as Twilight looked into his eyes, she saw his anger was only a front to hide his true feelings. “Trust me!” Spike said as he tried to suppress his tears, “I want to be with her! I really do!” Twilight fought over her initial shock at Spike’s actions. She then gently looked Spike in the eyes. “Then why did you leave?” Spike’s anger deflated and tears could be seen forming in his eyes. “I had to. When Sassy told me how I should leave Rarity to protect her dream, I wanted to believe she was the only one saying that,” Spike replied as he averted his gaze. “But when I heard other ponies saying the same thing…” Twilight remained silent as she waited for her little brother to continue. Spike steeled himself as he continued his confession. “If…If being with Rarity means destroying her dream, then….I’m destroying the very thing I love,” Spike continued, “I can’t…I can’t do that!” Tears started to break through Spike’s hard exterior. “Oh Spike,” Twilight said as she extended a wing out and pulled him in close to her. Spike made no resistance as his face buried into her side. As Twilight held her little brother, her mind raced to try and find ways to help him. As the Princess of Friendship, she thought she should be able to do something. How was she supposed to make other ponies understand the love Spike and Rarity shared with one another? Why couldn’t ponies understand that it was possible for a dragon and unicorn to be together? Twilight’s mind drew only a blank. She only hoped that someone else might have the answer. X==X==X==X==X “That bad, huh,” Rainbow Dash said after hearing what Twilight told her what happened. Twilight nodded. After calming Spike down and leaving him in Starlight’s care, Twilight had called an emergency meeting with her other four friends. They had gathered at a table outside a café to discuss ways to help Rarity. “I’ve never seen her so down before. It was like all the life in her was gone. And Spike….” Applejack lowered her head in remorse. “It’s no surprise. She and Spike shared something special, and everyone called it ‘unnatural’.” “I wish I could have been there to help,” Fluttershy said as she too looked at the table in remorse. She had been brought up to speed by Twilight and regretted not being there for her friend. “It’s not your fault, Fluttershy. You had other responsibilities,” Twilight assured her. “I know,” Fluttershy replied, knowing she could never leave her chickens when they had been sick. “But…I just wish I could be in two places at once.” “Trust me Fluttershy! It’s not worth it!” Pinkie Pie replied. As she said this, another Pinkie Pie walked down the street in disguise. “I’m kind of surprised the reporters never bothered you,” Rainbow Dash commented. “A few of them did come to my house,” Fluttershy replied, “But I had Harry keeping watch as I took care of Elizabeak and the other chickens.” “Consider yourself lucky,” Applejack added. She then turned to the other ponies, “In truth, I don’t think any of us really know how handle the spotlight except Rarity. I mean, her business literally is in the spotlight.” “But will making a new dress for the fashion show really help her?” Rainbow Dash asked. Twilight lowered her head. “I don’t know. It might just be a temporary solution.” “But how are we supposed to help her,” Rainbow Dash asked as she hovered in the air. “The last time I did, I was caught wearing a wedding dress.” “And you looked good in it too,” Applejack snickered, hoping to lighten the mood. Rainbow Dash gave Applejack a warning glance. She then turned back to the others. “But still, how do we show a dragon and unicorn can be together. I mean, Spike’s parents did it.” “But they hid their relationship. No one knew that Grey Shire and Runt were together,” Twilight replied. “I think I can understand why they did,” Fluttershy replied. For a moment, all the other ponies began to remember their experiences with the ‘Fame and Misfortune’ incident. It was clear that none of them wanted to deal with a situation like that again. Unfortunately, Rarity was in that situation now. “What about you, Twilight?” Rainbow Dash asked, “You’ve stood up in front of large crowds.” Twilight frowned as all eyes fell on her. “I’m afraid there’s a big difference between being a princess and a fashion designer. My job is to maintain the peace and order of pony society. Not entertain the masses with fancy new dresses.” “I’m good at being the life of a party,” Pinkie Pie chipped in. “Sorry Pinkie,” Rainbow Dash said, “But I think Rarity’s audience is a little more…sophisticated.” “Like I was saying,” Applejack replied, “I don’t think anyone knows how to handle the spotlight better than Rarity. She’s the only one of us who knows how to properly handle this situation.” Twilight’s eyes fell to the ground as she realized her friend was right. She wanted to help Rarity and Spike be together, but did not know how. A part of her feared Spike may have been right when he said that the only way to protect Rarity was for him to leave her. It just wasn’t fair. “Twilight!” Twilight awoke from her thoughts as she heard her name being called. Immediately, she and the others turned to see Starlight Glimmer running toward them at a full gallop. She appeared as if she was responding to an emergency. “Starlight?” Twilight asked in concern, “What’s wrong?” For a brief moment she feared something had happened to Spike. “It’s the Friendship Map!” Starlight gasped as she reached Twilight’s side, “It’s…calling someone!” “But…” Rainbow Dash took a moment to look at her flank, “My cutie mark isn’t reacting.” The other ponies turned and looked at their own flanks as well. To their surprise, none of their cutie marks were reacting to the map’s calling. “Um…Is my cutie mark broken?” Pinkie asked as she looked to the others. “Mine’s not reacting either,” Applejack added as she turned and looked to everyone else. “Neither is mine,” Fluttershy said. She then looked to Starlight. “Are you sure we’re being summoned?” Twilight was equally confused when she saw that no one among their group was being called. “Whose cutie mark is the map calling?” “That’s the part you’re not going to believe,” Starlight replied. X==X==X==X==X “Your right,” Applejack said as she and the others started to surround the map table. “I don’t believe it.” “Is this right?” Rainbow Dash asked, “I mean, she’s not exactly one of us.” Twilight was equally surprised as she stepped towards the table. It was no surprise to Twilight that the cutie mark was circling over the Canterlot Boutique. Undoubtedly, the map was reacting to Rarity’s distress. However, what surprised Twilight was whose cutie mark was circling over the Canterlot Boutique. Like Starlight had said, it was not one of their own. Nor was it Starlight’s cutie mark or even an image of Spike’s head. Yet, she and the others recognized the cutie mark almost immediately as they entered the room. As Pinkie Pie looked at the cutie mark on the map, she began to look uncomfortable. “Um…I’m not going to have to cater to her needs again,” she then looked to Applejack, “Am I?” “I’m pretty sure she doesn’t do that anymore,” Applejack reassured her friend. “But why her?” Rainbow Dash asked, “I mean, wouldn’t one of us be more suited for the task?” There was a moment of silence as each pony looked to each other for an answer. It only took a moment for them to remember that none of them really knew how to help Rarity in her situation. Could the pony being summoned make a difference? Starlight bit her lip for a moment as another thought crossed her mind. “Do you think she will respond?” Applejack gave a reassuring smile, “Oh, she’ll respond. I can guarantee that.” “But still,” Rainbow Dash asked, “Why her?” Fluttershy gave this some thought. “Well, she is popular. Maybe she can relate to Rarity’s situation.” Starlight then turned to Twilight for an answer, “What do you think, Twilight?” Twilight’s eyes remained fixated on the cutie mark dancing over the map. As she thought back to their last encounter with the pony in question, a realization slowly formed in her head. “I think, she’s perfect.” “What?” Rainbow Dash asked in surprise. ”You really think so?” “Yes,” Twilight turned to face her friends. “I think I might know why the map summoned her.” “But it might take months to get her,” Pinkie Pie replied, “I had to wait weeks just for a response last time.” Twilight suspected Pinkie Pie might be right. However, Twilight knew one pony the one being summoned would answer too. Quickly, Twilight turned to face one of her other friends. “Applejack. Are you still in contact with her?” “Well…a little,” Applejack responded hesitantly, “We still write letters. Last I heard, she was in Manehattan.” “I need you to find her,” Twilight instructed, “She might be the only one who can help Rarity.” Applejack saluted. “You can count on me.” “What about the rest of us?” Fluttershy asked, “We’re Rarity’s friends too.” Twilight turned to Fluttershy. “I know. But the map says only she can help Rarity. We have to believe in it.” Despite Twilight’s assurances, Starlight still had her doubts. “Do you really think she can do it?” Twilight took a moment to look at Starlight before fixing her eyes on the golden star surrounded by colorful notes. “I do,” Twilight responded. As she said this, she felt the same pony that the cutie mark belonged to was now singing a familiar song that echoed in Twilight’s mind. That I am just a pony I make mistakes from time to time But now I know the real me And put my heart on the line And let the magic in my heart stay true (whoa whoa ouh whoa whoa) And let the magic in my heart stay true (whoa whoa ouh whoa whoa) Just like the magic inside of you Just like the magic inside of you… To Be Continued…