Heart Invasion 101

by FamousLastWords


Mares [&]Delinquents

Spike's eyes cracked open, slowly letting in the sun's rays. He still felt tired from the excitement of the previous night, but he had a full day ahead of him. There was no time to lay around in bed.

He rubbed the sleep out of his eyes and sat up in his bed. He took a quick glance around the familiar surroundings of his room. His posters, his personal personal bookcase, his stereo system—everything seemed to be in order.

He hopped off the bed and made his way downstairs to the living room, ready to begin his daily chores. Twilight wasn’t awake yet, so Spike hoped he would be able to finish and take his leave before she woke up. He didn’t exactly feel like explaining his plans with Vinyl to her.

He quickly got to his work. Dusting, sweeping, organizing, and food preparation were all on the list, but he was able to finish in a matter of hours.

He was eating some breakfast in the kitchen when he glanced at the clock. It was ten-thirty, so he still had over an hour before his plans with Vinyl. Maybe he’d stop by Rarity’s first to tell her about his night. Or maybe he’d just take a better look around Octavia’s music shop.

He was about to get up to rinse off his dishes when he heard the familiar sound of Twilight’s voice.

“Good morning, Spike! How are you?”

“I’m good. A little tired still from last night, but not a big deal.” Spike shrugged slightly and took his used plate to the sink. “I made you a salad, Twi. It’s in the fridge if you’re hungry.”

“Why thank you, Spike.” Twilight took a seat at the table and levitated her meal from the fridge to the empty area in front of her. “Oh, how was your show last night, by the way? We didn’t get a chance to talk when you got home.”

When Spike returned the previous night, Twilight was holed up in her room for whatever reason, so he didn’t get even a moment to tell her about it. “It was fun,” he said, nonchalantly.

“That’s nice. Did you see anyone you knew?” Twilight gave him a passing glance while eating her salad.

“Yeah. Lyra was there with Bon-Bon, and a couple others.” Spike looked around the room at nothing in particular.

“Any… special ponies there?” Twilight said with a playful smirk.

Spike let out a small sigh. “Yes, Flitter was there, and no, I didn’t talk to her.”

Several months past, Spike had been seeing Flitter regularly. For one, he was impressed that she had the courage to ask him out. Also Twilight was very fond of the idea, given Flitter’s reputation as the ‘good girl’ of the Pegasus community. She was sweet, but things didn’t work out.

“Well, if you ask me, you two had a good thing going. I still don’t know why you broke it off so suddenly.” Twilight gave her assistant a curious look.

" I’ve moved on. It’s not important anymore.” Spike drew his gaze to the table he was sitting at. “Getting back to the original topic, no I didn’t see anyone else there. I had a lot of fun though.”

“Well, that’s good.” She donned a small smile. “Was there a large crowd there for you and, um, Vinyl was it?”

Spike formed an elated smile. “When it was just us, there was maybe around fifty or sixty ponies. But when we got to play the final number with I See Sombra, there were at least two hundred. It was amazing!”

Twilight shot the dragon a sweet smile. “Well, that definitely sounds like it. I’ll make sure to come to your next show, okay?”

“Oh, thanks Twi! Speaking of our next show, it’s gonna be tomorrow night at a club in Manehatten.” Spike’s smile quickly disappeared when he saw the look on Twilight’s face.

Twilight jumped up from her seat. “Manehatten? At night?! Spike, there’ll be nothing but drugs, alcohol, and sex everywhere!”

“Yeah, yeah, I know. But it pays well, and besides, you said you wouldn’t interfere with my work as long as I got my stuff here done.”

The purple mare opened her mouth to retaliate, but had no response. “Fine.” She let out a long sigh. “But I’m not gonna be able to make it tomorrow. I have a special meeting with the mayor in the afternoon to discuss some local ordinances.”

Spike felt his mouth droop to a frown. “Somehow, that doesn’t surprise me,” he grumbled.

“What was that, Spike?” Twilight asked, cocking her head to the side.

“Never mind.” He got up from his place once more, this time taking the empty dish from Twilight. “Anyway, I’m about to head out. I have some plans today.”

“Plans? Are you helping out Rarity again?”

“No…” He didn’t exactly want to tell her who he was going to be with, but she could be so nosy sometimes. “Just hanging out with a friend. That’s all.” He gave her a quick smile and made his way to the door as fast as he could.

“Wait just a second. Who is this friend?” Twilight gave the dragon a suspicious glare.

“Fine, if you must know, it’s Vinyl. We’re gonna be working a lot together, so it makes sense we could try to be friends, also.”

Twilight gave her assistant a scrutinizing look for a moment. “I suppose that makes sense. But, be careful with how close you get. You only met her a few days ago.” Twilight gave him a quick glance before turning away.

“Alright, Twilight, I will.” Spike popped open the front door and made his way out.

“Oh! And make sure your home before it gets too late! You need to actually get some sleep tonight!” she called out as Spike was leaving.

The young dragon chuckled quietly and made his way to the music shop to meet up with his partner for the afternoon.

* * * * * * *


Spike stepped into the shop. The smell of clean carpet and fresh wooden instruments filled the air.

“Welcome to… Oh! Hello, Spike.” Octavia walked over from a nearby shelf and greeted the dragon with a gentle smile. “How are you doing today?”


Spike gave the mare a brief gentlemanly bow. “Hello, Ms. Octavia. I’m doing quite well. How are you?”

“I’m doing quite well, thank you. What brings you here?”

“I’m meeting Vinyl here.” Spike quickly glanced at a nearby clock hanging on the wall. “In about ten minutes to be precise. We’re gonna be hanging out around town this afternoon.”

“Oh, yes. Vinyl mentioned that last night. She came running into my apartment last night talking about the show and how much fun it was.” Octavia let out a small chuckle. “It’s nice to see her making some new friends here.”

Spike eyed Octavia curiously. “New friends? She seems pretty popular as is.”

“Yes, well, suffice it to say most of the friends that Vinyl had been drawn to in the past weren’t exactly the prime example of good association.” Her face contorted into a look of disgust.

“Ah, I get what you mean.” Spike said. “But aren’t you good friends with her? I mean, you seem like a decent pony.”

Octavia chuckled to herself briefly. “Thank you, Spike. But unfortunately, work and circumstances keep Vinyl and I from getting together like we used to.”

Spike shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly. “Oh, well that’s no fun. But understandable, I suppose.”

“Yes. So, that’s why I’m glad you and Vinyl are hitting it off so well.” Octavia gave the dragon a small smile.

Suddenly, they heard the doorbell jingle. “What’s going on, guys? Vinyl Scratch is in the house!” The white unicorn made her way to her two friends. “’Sup Octavia. What’s going on, Spike?” She gave a quick hoof bump to Spike and gave a quick nod to the other mare.

“Hello, Vinyl,” Octavia said with a smile.

“Hey! You ready to have some fun today?” Spike said with a wide grin.

“Definitely!” Vinyl said, shooting a wink towards Spike. However, the group then heard a familiar grumbling sound coming from Vinyl’s stomach. “Hehe, as long as having fun includes food. I woke up too late to eat anything at home.”

“We’ll make food our first stop, then.” Spike shot a quick smile at Vinyl before turning his attention back to Octavia. “Well, I’ll see you around, Octavia. Have a good one.” With a wave Spike made his way toward the exit, closely followed by Vinyl.

“Have fun you two!” Octavia gave a gentle wave as the two left the store.


* * * * * * *


Spike and Vinyl briskly stepped down the cobblestone path that led through Ponyville. Once couldn’t ask for better weather, and there wasn’t a single cloud in the sky to block the sun.

“So, what all is on the agenda for us today?” Vinyl asked.

“Well, I figured we’d first grab some food from one of the stalls in the square,” Spike replied.

“Definitely sounds like a great start.” Vinyl rubbed her empty stomach. “How about after? What is there to do around here?”

“Well, I figured I could show you around a bit, seeing as how you’re still pretty new to the area. And I was thinking I could introduce you to my friends, Rarity. She’s really nice, and I know she wants to meet you.” Spike sent a quick smile up to his new friend.

“Rarity, Rarity… Oh, that’s right. The element bearer. Yeah, sounds good. But why does she want to meet me?” Vinyl asked.

“She’s pretty much my best friend, so she’s always interested in what I’m doing and who I spend time with.” Spike rubbed his chin for a moment and turned to look at Vinyl. “She’s kind of like an overprotective marefriend without the jealousy factor.” The two burst out in laughter for a moment, attracting attention as they made their way into the town square.

The square was bustling with Saturday afternoon business. Ponies at stalls were bartering and trading with ponies of all kinds, and it didn’t appear to be slowing down any time soon.

“So, what do you feel like having?” Spike said to Vinyl.

“Hmm, what are my options?” She scrutinized the various stalls around trying to get an idea of what products were available.

“Well, let’s see whose stalls are out today.” Spike tried to stand up as high as he could to look around over the traffic. “Ugh, it seriously sucks being short sometimes!”

“Here, let me give you a hoof,” Vinyl said with a small giggle. Spike was suddenly enveloped in a bluish glow and levitated onto Vinyl’s back. “There you go. Any better?” she questioned while looking back at him.

“Yeah, thanks.” He smiled back at her. “Hmm, looks like we’ve got Carrot Top’s carrots, the Asparagus stallion, and… oh! Applejack is here today. Do you like apples?”

“Of course!” She said with a wink.

“Awesome. Then head over to the stall with the orange earth pony with the hat.” Spike pointed a claw in the direction of Applejack’s apple stand on the outer edge of the square.

The two made their way over and immediately caught the attention of the farm pony.

“Well, howdy there Spike!” She said, tipping her hat to the dragon. “It’s nice to see ya! And who might you’re friend be?” Applejack questioned, giving a curious smile toward Vinyl.

“The name’s Vinyl. Vinyl Scratch.” She extended a hoof to Applejack and received a hoof shake in return. “Me and Spike work together.”

“Well, it’s a pleasure to make yer acquaintance, Vinyl. Any friend of Spike is a friend of mine!” She gave a warm smile to the two. “Now, what brings ya'll 'round here on this fine day?”

“I’m showing Vinyl around town. She’s pretty new to the area. Right now though, we decided it was time to get some food.” Spike said, eyeing the various Apple products Applejack had on display.


“Well then, you’ve come to tha right place! Apple fritters, apple pie, apple cobbler, apples on a stick… what you hungry for?” AJ’s face grew into a beaming smile as she pointed out her selection of products.

“Oh, wow! That all looks so amazing!” Vinyl eyed each and every delicious apple product, her hunger growing more rampant by the second. “I think I’ll take two apple fritters. Those look too good to pass up!”

“Alrighty! And what can I get you, Spike?” The earth pony turned her attention to the dragon still riding on Vinyl’s back.

“Umm, I’ll take an apple on a stick and a fritter as well! And put it on my tab, AJ,” Spike said with a smooth tone.

“Are you sure? I’ve got bits.”

“I’m sure. I wouldn’t be much of a gentledrake if I had the lady of the evening pay, now would I?” Spike let out a small chuckle.

“Well hey. I’m not gonna argue over free food.” Vinyl let out a small laugh as Applejack handed them a small bag with their food in it.

“Well, ah thank ya kindly for yer business. It was a pleasure seein’ you, Spike. And it was nice to meet ya, Vinyl! Have a great day, you two!” Applejack’s face shone a bright smile as she waved at the two and began turning her attention to another customer.

The two friends made their way out of the busy square with their food.

“So, I was thinking we could go eat at the park? They have tables and stuff and it’s usually pretty quiet there,” Spike said with a slight shrug of his shoulders.

“Sounds good to me. Just lead the way!” Vinyl looked back at the dragon on her back, lips curled into a smile.

Spike hopped off and plopped onto the ground. “It’s just up the road here.” He thrust a claw toward a cobblestone path that led to a small grove of trees and wildlife.

The two hungry friends quickly bounded down to the park and took a seat at one of the picnic tables that were available. With the exception of the occasional couple walking about, it was a peaceful and serene locale.

“Okay, let’s see what we got!” Vinyl snatched the bag of food from Spike and levitated out her two fritters. “I’m so hungry!”

Spike reached across the table and took the bag back, and emptied its contents onto the table in front of him. “The apple family make the best apple desserts!” His mouth began dripping at just seeing the deliciousness in front of him. “You’re gonna want to take it nice and slow and-“He looked up to see that his friend had already gobbled down the first fritter and was starting on the second one.

“Erm, shrry Shpike, one shec…” She quickly swallowed the food in her mouth with a satisfying grin. “Sorry, I was hungry. Now, what were you saying about nice and slow?”

Spike looked at her for a moment before turning his gaze to the untouched food in front of him. He erupted into a brief fit of laughter before taking a bite of his fritter. “Hehe, nothing.”

After the two finished their meal, they were met with an awkward silence. Spike searched his mind for something to say to the unicorn who was now twiddling her hooves across from him.

“So… nice weather, huh?” Spike sent a smile across the table.

“Yeah, I like the fact there’s actually fresh air here. In the city, not so much.” As if to further her point, she took in a deep breath of air. “I could get used to this.”

“It is a pretty nice town. But it gets kinda boring sometimes,” Spike said with a slight frown. “I imagine things were at least more exciting in Manehatten.”

“Well, it comes down to your definition of exciting. There were a lot more things to do, sure. But for the most part, it was the same scene over and over again. Go out with my friends, play a show, come back home to me and Octavia’s overpriced apartment… It got old pretty fast.” She moved her head to rest on one of her hooves. “What about you? Do you ever think about getting away?”

Spike had to think for a moment before answering. “Well, this is where all my friends are. And it has been my home for some time now.” Spike gently stroked his chin in thought. “I do really like it here. I just want to try something new. I’ve been with Twilight for so long and it’s gotten so stale as of late.”

“I feel ya, bro. Well, if anything, working with me will definitely help you get out more.” Vinyl shot him a sincere smile. Her features suddenly sparked with excitement however. “I almost forgot, I was gonna ask you something before the performance last night, but we get cut off.”

Spike racked his brain to remember their previous conversation from the night before. “Oh, yeah! We were talking about how I originally was given to Twilight if I remember correctly.”

“Yeah. So, you said that your egg was taken to Equestria for the magic test, right?” Vinyl took off her glasses and placed the on the table.

“Yep. What about it?”

“Well, if you don’t mind me asking, where were your parents in all this? I mean, from what I’ve heard, dragons take care of their young until they’re old enough to hunt for themselves. They should’ve been there, right?”

“I don’t know,” Spike said, barely above a whisper.

“What?” Vinyl said, a curious look adorning her face.

“I don’t know. I was never told.” Spike let out a long sigh. “I try not to think about it too much.”

Vinyl just stared at him. Her eyes widened as she thought about what she just heard. “You don’t know? They just took you away and never said anything to you about your family? That’s horrible!”

“Yeah, well, that’s how things go, I guess. I kinda came to terms awhile back with the fact I’ll probably never know my family.”.

“But that’s so wrong. What if your parents were just like, out hunting or something and they come back to an empty nest?! Or what if you were taken by force? I just-- I don’t like it.” She sat back in her seat and quickly put her sunglasses back on, but not before a stray tear fell down her cheek.

“Vinyl, it’s okay. I mean, I never really knew them. And it’s been outlawed since then anyway.” He briefly stroked her hoof and sent her a small smile. Needless to say, he was a bit surprised by her strong reaction.

“Sorry,” said Vinyl, fighting back any more tears from making an appearance. “It’s just a touchy subject for me.”

Spike was about to question why, but thought better of it for the moment. “Well, now that we’re done eating, you ready for a personal tour of the town?” Spike stood up from his seat, excitement emanating from his demeanor.

Vinyl quickly got up from her seat with a large smile. “You know it! Let’s see what this town has to offer!”

* * * * * * *


The two spent the afternoon touring the town’s various places of interest. Spike made sure to show her the various shops and stands along with taking her out to Sweet Apple Acres and the edge of the Everfree Forest. They talked about everything that came to mind including future work plans, Spike’s favourite books and Vinyl’s preferred flavor of ice cream. The weather stayed perfect as the two went about the day, and it led to a terrific afternoon..


As the day was winding down, Spike had one final stop before they went separate ways.


“A dress shop?” Vinyl looked down at Spike, eyes cocked in skepticism.

“Yep!” Spike beamed a smile back at her.

Vinyl eyed the building in front of her. “No offense, Spike, but dresses, lace, clothing in general… not really my thing.”

“Well, it’s not the clothing design part we’re here for. It’s for the pony that owns it!”

“Oh! This is where Rarity works?” Vinyl questioned.

“That’s right! And I want to introduce you, so let’s pay her a visit!” Spike gently rapped his knuckles on the door.

The door quickly swung open to reveal the beautiful white unicorn. “Welcome, to- Oh, Spikey! What a wonderful surprise!” Rarity’s face took on a graceful smile toward the dragon. “Unfortunately dear, I’m terribly busy at the moment, and-“She suddenly shifted her gaze to Vinyl who was standing just behind the dragon. “And I’m sure I could spare a minute or two to talk!”

“Thanks, Rares!” Spike stepped inside the building, closely followed by Vinyl, who was glancing around at her surroundings.

“Now, who might this be?” Rarity said, smiling at the fellow unicorn. “My name is Rarity.”

“Yo! Nice to meet you. The name’s Vinyl.” Vinyl shot a relaxed smile at Rarity. “I work with Spike.”

“Oh, yes! He is the most helpful little worker isn’t he?”

“Yeah, the little dude is pretty awesome.” Vinyl smiled at Spike who was standing next to her. “We’re actually heading out to Manehatten tomorrow for a club show.”

“Yeah! It’s gonna be awesome! I’ve never been to a city night club before!” Spike jumped in place, exuding excitement.

“Ooh! Manehatten! I do love the fashion culture of the city!” Rarity let out a dreamy sigh.

“Hey, I know! Maybe you could come to the show? I’ll take care of your cover charge and everything.” Spike’s face sparked a grin.

“Oh, sweetie, that’s a lovely idea! But I just don’t know. This entire weekend is so busy. Perhaps you could ask Twilight to come?” Rarity gave him a gentle smile.

“Eh, Twilight doesn’t really have time for anything anymore," Spike said. “Maybe next time, Rarity.”

Rarity nibbled her lower lip in thought. “Tell you what, Spike. I’ll do my absolute best to be there tomorrow night to see you.”

“Really? That’d be great!”

Rarity bent down and quickly nuzzled his cheek. “Of course. I wouldn’t be able to call myself your friend if I didn’t support you the way you support me.”

Vinyl cracked a smirk and nudged Spike with her hoof. “Wow, you’ve already got yourself a fan club going.”

“What can I say?” Spike shrugged with mock arrogance, and the three broke out in laughter.

“Well, Spike, thank you so much for stopping by, but I really do have work to do. Especially if I want to make it to your performance tomorrow,” Rarity said.

“Alrighty. We’ll head out then. Thanks so much, Rarity!” Spike wrapped Rarity in a tight hug before turning toward the door.

“It was nice meeting you, Rarity. I hope you enjoy the show!” Vinyl gave a small wave of her hoof and headed toward the door with Spike.

“I’m sure I will. And it was nice to meet you, also! Have a fantastic day, you two.” Rarity waved to the two as they left.

“Well… You certainly have a way with the mares.” Vinyl chuckled and nudged a now blushing dragon.

“Yeah, well, we’ve been friends for a long time.” Spike led Vinyl away from the boutique and back toward the road.

“Just friends, huh?” Vinyl said with a smirk.

“If you must know, I used to really like her. But now she’s just my best friend. Why? You jealous?” Spike sent her a sly grin and laughed to himself.

“Yeah, you wish!” Vinyl and Spike broke into a brief fit of laughter.

“Well, it’s getting late now. I should probably head back to the library.”

“Yeah, you’re probably right. I had a great time today! Just wondering, though: Are you ever gonna take me to see your place sometime? You were kinda avoiding it today.”

“Sure. Just when Twilight isn’t around preferably. She’s a little… touchy when it comes to who I hang out with.” Spike took on an annoyed look.

“Say no more, I get it. Another time, then. Anyway, maybe I’ll show you my apartment next time. It’s not much, but I do have a beast recording setup in there. We could play around with making songs and stuff if you want.” Vinyl cracked a small smile at the thought.

“Definitely! I’d like that.” Spike responded with a smile in kind.

The two friends stood there for a few seconds in silence.

“Well, I, um, should get going now.” Spike laughed nervously.

“Yeah, see you tomorrow, Spike.” The two shared their customary hoof bump and walked away from each other, both with large smiles spread across their faces.