//------------------------------// // Episode 4: Scaly Honesty // Story: MLP: Spike's Story // by Aura Zero //------------------------------// "Here ya go Spike! One strawberry muffin with ruby sprinkles!" Pinkie said as she gave said treat to the dragon. "Thanks! This is gonna taste so good!" Spike said happily as he gave the bits to Pinkie. Spike was at Sugarcube Corner after getting some time off from helping Twilight. She had to go speak to Rarity about something so he merely went to go get a snack with some of the bits he had. "If you like this, then you will love the new muffins that me and the Cakes will be making next week!" Pinkie said hopping up and down. "New Muffins? What kind?" Spike asked curiously. Maybe they might be making more kinds of gem muffins? That would be great! "Sorry Spike! It's a secret! But, Don't worry, there will be free samples coming out when we make them!" "Awesome! I can't wait!" Spike said as he chewed on his treat. "If they are half as good as these, then I'll be happy to try some!" "Don't worry, they'll be...wait do you hear that?" Spike stopped chewing/crunching on his treat. "Hear what?" "That noise...it's coming from outside! Lets go see!" Pinkie said excitedly as she ran out the door. Spike scratched his head confused but shrugged as he popped the treat in his mouth and left the store to see what's up. As soon as he left the place, he heard exactly what Pinkie was talking about. There was a small rumbling that seemed to get louder, like it was coming closer. Spike noticed Dash a little ways away take flight to see what's up. I wonder what's up? Maybe a circus is coming to town or something? Spike noticed Rainbow's eyes grow wide before she spoke. "Stampede!" At hearing that, everyone turned and Spike was finally able to see what was coming. A large group of cows were running straight towards town with no intent on stopping for anypony. Spike's eyes grew wide. Oh snap! I better find somewhere to hide! Before Spike took a step though, he noticed the others panicking and running in random directions. He also noticed Pinkie.....vibrating? "HHHHHeeeeeeyyyyy! TTThhhhiiisssss mmmmmaaaaaaakkkkeeeeesssss mmmmmmmyyyyyyyyy vvvvvvoooooiiiiiccccceeeee sssssooooooouuuuunnnddddddd ssssiiiiillllllyyyyyy!" Spike faceclawed at that. Wow, Pinkie. Really? Spike also noticed Rarity and Twilight running around. "Pinkie! Are you crazy? Run!" Twilight said panicking. Spike watched as the ponies in the streets just ran in random directions. Why doesn't anypony just hide? Flipping out and running in circles won't make you safe. He then noticed the mayor speaking. "Everypony, please calm down. No need to panic." Finally, somepony with a sense of calm around here. Spike thought before he decided to find a place that's not in the open and hide. He saw an alley and went towards it. When he got inside, he looked out towards the direction of the stampede and saw a familiar pony with a dog running beside her. Applejack? What is she doing? She might get trampled!" Spike panicked slightly at that thought, until he saw what started to happen. "Yeehaw! Other side Winona!" Spike watched as the daring duo got on both sides of the stampede. They then started to gather them up and move them around. Wow! How is she doing that? I'd be afraid of tripping and getting trampled. Spike thought as he watched her gather them up and throw a rope on the cow in the front. She then lead the group away from the town in the nick of time. Wow, Applejack is awesome! Her and Winona just saved the town from getting damaged and made it look so easy. Spike walked out of his hiding spot and saw all the other ponies cheer for her as she ran off in the direction of Sweet Apple Acres. "Mah sis is just the coolest!" Spike turned and saw a yellow filly with a red mane and tail. She had a bow in her hair and was smiling wide. She also had the same accent as Applejack. That's Applejack's sister. What was her name? I've never really talked to her after the reunion.... "I think tho too!" Said a mare next to her. This mare had a light scarlet coat and bright red mane. She also had blue-violet glasses on and was smiling as well. "We must do something to thank Applejack for single-hoofedly saving the town." The mayor said. "Technically, she had help from Win-" Spike started but was interrupted by Pinkie. "Ooh! I know! A party!" Pinkie said excitedly. I figured she would say that. Spike thought. However, he wasn't opposed to the idea at all. He really enjoyed Pinkies parties. "That's an excellent idea! We should throw a party for her and celebrate! Also present her an award for always helping Ponyville out!" The mayor said happily. "That sounds great! But lets not forget Winona too." Spike chimed in. However, the others paid him no mind. "I'll get started on the treats for the party!" Pinkie chirped before dashing away. "I'll get started on the designs. I'll make sure they are the best you've all seen." Rarity said happily as she walked away. Twilight turned to Spike. "Spike, did you say something earlier? I didn't catch it." Of course you didn't... Spike frowned at that thought but decided to ignore that fact for now. "It wasn't important. So, anything I can do to help?" Twilight smiled before giving him some tasks to help make this a very good party. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike was sitting back on some hay relaxing after doing the setup for the party. They decided to plan the party for the weekend, and, once it came, they became quite busy. Spike was the busiest since he decided to do what he does best: help everypony. He started at Rarity's. All of the decorations and such were being made by her and Spike helped just like he would do the dresses and such that he helped at one time before. Rarity sure does go all out whenever her best friends are involved. I'm sure Applejack will like these. After finishing there, he headed towards Sugarcube corner. It turns out that the Cakes had a last minute request, so they were getting ready to be leaving soon. Since they had to get the large order for their customer ready, that left the oven occupied. So Pinkie asked to use Spike's fire to heat up her treats. She said it tastes better after he uses his fire too since the last time he sneezed and roasted some cupcakes. I still can't believe she ate those after I sneezed on them. Plus she said they tasted better. I'll probably try using my fire to cook things from now on to see if that's actually true. After that exhausting bout of fire usage, he merely went out and set up the decorations and finally finished around noon. They started preparing early. Spike was merely waiting for the okay to go and get Applejack, which was also his job. He didn't mind though. I hope she enjoys the party we made her. She really deserves it for all the things I heard she does around here. I'm still surprised about hearing her single-hoofedly stopping a lone Timberwolf from terrorizing the town. I heard those things are vicious. Spike noticed Twilight walking over to him. "Spike, we're ready for you to go get Applejack now." Spike saluted. "Yes ma'am! I'll be right back!" Spike saw Twilight smile and roll her eyes playfully before he turned and headed towards Sweet Apple Acres. He made it there rather quickly since he was excited himself about the party. He also had something for Winona, since the others seemed to forget that she helped. He went to the barn where he heard she usually is and opened it slightly. Sure enough, Winona perked up when she heard the door open and, seeing the dragon, rushed over to him and gave him three sloppy licks. "H-Hey haha cut that out!" Spike chuckled at the dog's antics. "I got somethin for ya. It's a thanks for saving the town with Applejack. It's not much but I hope you like it." Spike showed her his gift. I was merely a chew toy bone but more sturdy and will last quite long. Winona barked happily before biting the chew toy and playing with it. Spike smiled at that. "I guess you like it." Winona ran back to him and started to lick him furiously, eliciting laughter from the drake. "Haha, okay, you like it, I get it." Winona stopped her assault and went to grab the toy. "So, I also have something for you to deliver to Applejack." Spike pulled out an invitation in a pink letter. Winona sniffed it before barking and taking it. She then left. "Alright. Time to head back then." Spike said as he turned and left. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike was waiting with the others. They decided to start the ceremony believing that she will be here on time. Twilight was the first on stage. She had a stack of cards with her and Spike groaned. Oh great. This might take a while. "Welcome everypony! Today we are here to honor a pony we can always count on to help in matters great and small." Spike faceclawed as he saw her move on to the next card. Someone please end this before it begins... Spike thought. Fortunately, that actually happened. Rainbow Dash slammed her hoof on the podium, startling Twilight and sending the cards flying. "Did you see Applejack's slick moves out there? What an athlete! This week, she going to help me with a new flying trick. I know its going to be so awesome!" Dash said excitedly. I can't wait to see that. Spike thought as he saw Twilight move Dash. As soon as she started to talk again, another mare interrupted once more. "This week, I get to run Sugarcube Corner for the first time." Pinkie said with a subtle smile while interrupting Twilight. Spike raised a brow at the random statement but Twilight spoke up first. "And what does that have to do with Applejack?" Pinkie merely blinked for a moment before seeming to understand what was being asked. "Oh! Applejack, one of the best bakers ever, is gonna help me. Applejack makes everything great so free samples for everypony!" Everyone cheered at that. "I cant wait to try them!" Spike said excitedly. He noticed Twilight get interrupted once more but not so abruptly like the others. It seemed Fluttershy had something to add as well. I'm surprised she is confident enough to speak in front of all these ponies. "I just wanted to mention that Applejack is also helping me this week with the official bunny census. It's where we count up all the new baby bunnies that were born this season. She's going to help gather them using her wonderful herding skills." She helps everypony a lot. Just like me. Spike thought. He then saw Twilight staring down Fluttershy before speaking up. "Anyone else? Anyone?" The crowd got silent. Spike noticed everyone seemed to avoid eye contact with her seeing how her expression was. "Well, then as I was trying to say...." Twilight stopped when she saw the mayor standing there with a large smile on her face. "Ugh! Never mind!" Twilight said angrily and stomped off the stage.She must have really wanted to say her speech. I hope she isn't that mad. "Ahem, and so, without further ado, I am privileged to present the prized pony of Ponyville award to our beloved guest of honor. A pony with the utmost trustworthiness, reliability, and Integrity; Ponyville's most capable and dependable friend, Applejack!" Everyone cheered as the curtains opened. Spike joined in with it. "Yeah Applejack! Way to go that was awesome! I mean..." Spike then noticed that everyone was quiet and staring at him. "What?" He then looked ahead and saw that Applejack wasn't there. "Oh..." Spike blushed slightly as there was an uncomfortable silence wondering where Applejack was. "Awkward...." Spike said in a low voice at the situation. As soon as he said that, someone spoke up. "Ah'm here! Ah'm here...." A voice said drowsily. Spike turned and saw Applejack with two baskets of apples on her as she made her way clumsily towards the stage. Is she alright? She seems... out of it. When she walked up to the stage, she proceeded toward the podium where the mayor was. "Miss Mayor, thank ya kindly fer this here uh...award....thingy. *yawn* Its so bright and shiny and...heh. Ah sure do look funny. Woooo wooo." Spike merely blinked at that action before he saw Pinkie join in. "Wooo! Woooo! hehe!" Pinkie and Applejack said as they proceeded to move forward and back repeatedly with their heads at the trophy. Yup, something is definitely wrong with Applejack right now. Pinkie is acting normal, but for Applejack to pull a Pinkie, there is seriously something up. Spike thought as he watched Twilight walk up there. "Okay...well thank you Applejack for saving us from that scary stampede, and always being there for everypony.." Twilight said. "*yawn* Yeah I like helping the pony folks and *yawn* and stuff...*snore*" All of a sudden, Applejack fell asleep....while standing. ......How is she doing that? Wait, Why did she fall asleep? However, just as fast, she woke up shaking her head rapidly. "Huh? Oh! uh, yeah. Thanks!" Applejack said before she bit down on the handle and started to pull the trophy away. Everyone merely stared until they couldn't see her any more. Twilight spoke up. "Was it me, or did Applejack seem a little-" "Tired?" Rainbow said. "Dizzy?" Said Fluttershy. "Messy?" Said Rarity, getting looks from the others. "What? Did you see her mane?" "She seemed fine to me! Wooo! Woooo!" Pinkie said sounding like a fire horn. Of course you would think that Pinkie....wait, if Applejack's gone.... "Wait, since she left, does that mean we made this party for nothing?" Spike said aloud. Everyone went silent for a moment til it dawned on them. "Oh no! A cancelled party? Unacceptable! We must find something else to enjoy this party for!" Pinkie said frantically. "How are we going to do that when the banner says 'Thank you Applejack'?" Rarity pointed out. "I guess we can still have the party and bring some treats to her. It seemed like she was kinda busy judging from the apples she was carrying." Rainbow pointed out. "I told you we should have asked if she was doing anything first before we threw it." Spike said. "But then it wouldn't be a surprise thank you party." Pinkie said. "It cant be a surprise if you gave her an invitation Pinkie." Spike said bemused. "Details, details." Pinkie said waving it off. Spike sighed. "Well, if ya want, I can deliver her a slice of cake." Spike offered. "Oh, thank you Spike. That would be very generous of you." Fluttershy said. Twilight used her magic and made a pack of sweets from the table nearby and gave it to Spike. "I'm sure she will enjoy this if she is busy. Come back after you're done okay Spike?" Spike took the bag and nodded. "Sure thing." I also want to find out what was wrong with her. He thought as he proceeded along the path towards Sweet Apple Acres. Spike decided to think of some possible answers while walking. Maybe she's sick? Nah, she would have looked it. She looked tired, but not all sickly...maybe she just had a bad night's sleep. That would make sense. If that's true, Then these treats will bring her spirits up! Spike looked up and noticed he was approaching the barn. He immediately went to the front door and knocked. He waited patiently for an answer but it wasn't long before the door opened, revealing a burly red stallion with his barrel wrapped. "Heya Big Mac! What happened to you?" Spike said looking at the injury. "Injured workin'." Big Mac said simply. Spike shook his head. "I figured it was something like that. So, Applejack around?" "Eeyup. She's over in the fields workin'." "Oh alright then. I had a feeling she would be working as usual. Say, did she not have a good rest last night or something? She seemed tired when I saw her earlier." Big Mac had a look of realization before he sighed. "Applejack is intent on harvesting the entire apple orchard on her own and ah'm guessin' hasn't slept much since." Spike looked over towards the vast amounts of apple trees and shuddered at the amount he saw. There is no way she can do all of that without sleeping. She'll pass out. Spike looked back at Big Mac. "I'm going to go talk to her then. See ya later Big Mac." Big Mac merely nodded as Spike turned and left towards the orchards in search for the farm mare. He decided he would search where the picked trees end and unpicked begins. Sure enough, Spike saw her in the distance. However, as he got closer, behind a tree, stood Twilight as she turned and left in a huff. What the? You send me to give her treats but you beat me here? Spike thought incredulously. Spike walked towards Twilight, ready to give her a piece of his mind, until there was a bright flash and she was gone. Don't you teleport from me! I know where you live! As Spike was about to head back, he stopped and remembered he still had the treats in his claws. I guess I can still give her these... Spike turned back around and walked over to Applejack. As he got close, he saw Applejack nodding off to sleep. Wow, she really must be tired. Spike walked up to her and tapped her. "Uh, Applejack?" Applejack startled awake and shook her head rapidly. "Huh? Wha?" She looked over and saw Spike looking at her concerned. "Oh, Howdy there Spike. *yawn* Ya lookin fer Twi? Cuz she just left." "Not really. I just came by to drop these treats off since you left your party pretty early." "Oh, well thanks sugarcube. Sorry ah couldn't stay long but ah have lots of work ta do." Applejack said as she took the treats and snacked on one lazily. She did however perk up a little bit after eating one. "Whew does Pinkie know how to make a cupcake or what?" Applejack said smiling after her first treat. Spike smiled at that but then turned to a frown after noticing the apples again. "So, you're out here on your own doing this?" Applejack placed the rest of the treats down and got ready to start working again when he said that. "Sure am! Ah'm gonna get this entire orchard done before Applebuck season is over." "Do you need any help? I'll be happy to take some of the work off your shoulders." Spike offered. "Ah appreciate the gesture Spike but ah plan on doing this on mah own." "But there is so much and I can already tell you're exhausted." "Ah'm fine! Not tired in the slightest." Applejack protested as she tried to kick a tree but ended up toppling over a basket. For the Element of Honesty, you sure are bad at lying... Spike thought. He then decided to pick up the apples she spilled. Applejack frowned at this. "Ah told ya ah don't need any help. Ya don't have ta do that Spike." Spike looked at her and frowned himself. "I don't have to but I will. You are my friend AJ, and no matter how short we've known each other, if I see you struggling, I'm gonna help." Applejack still held strong. "But ah don't need-" "Tell you what Applejack, I've already heard that you made a wager that you will finish this before Applebuck season is over with Big Mac. Seeing how you are one to stick by those kinds of bets, how about I only help with taking the barrels of apples back to the farm and you do the rest? That way you will still be able to hold your wager and at the same time I can help out a bit." Applejack hesitated. "Well, technically that is true....but why ya wanna help so bad anyways?" Spike frowned at her. "I already told you; you're my friend and I help my friends out." Applejack paused for a moment and looked around, seeing baskets scattered around trees. She really wanted to prove she could do this alone but if Spike stuck with what he said he'd do, she'd still be basically doing it herself without taking too many trips. She also didn't seem to have the energy to argue much either. She sighed before turning towards Spike again. "Yer one persistent little fella aren't ya?" "With my friends, always." Spike said with a smile. Applejack shook her head and smiled slightly. "Alright fine but only to take some baskets back. Ah still will be helpin out with that too." Spike nodded. "Alright...oh and one more thing?" Applejack raised an eyebrow tiredly.. "And what's that?" "Try to get some rest in between or sleep at night please?" he urged. Applejack sighed. "Ah'll try but ah won't make any promises." Spike smiled at that. It's the best I can do but at least she won't be too tired now. They then set off to work. Applejack bucked apples and Spike took the baskets and put the apples by the barn, and returned the baskets to other trees that weren't harvested yet. Spike also had to watch Applejack. She was swaying a lot and missing the trees altogether sometimes. She even fell asleep A few times and he had to wake her. Even though he was helping relieve some of the load off her, she was still tired right now and that worried him. He didn't want her walking into a stray branch or have apples fall on her head. This isn't going to work if she is this tired right now. I need to at least convince her to take a quick nap. Spike nodded to himself before walking over to her. She nodded off again and he sighed. "Applejack!" She was startled awake and saw him. "Heh, sorry about that." Spike shook his head. "Applejack you need to take a break. This is your fourth time dozing off." Applejack shook her head. "No can do Spike. The harvest ends the day after tomorrow and ah need all the time ah can get in order to finish up here." Spike sighed. "I wish you could at least ask some friends to help you out, Like Twilight, Rainbow, and Fluttershy. I know they would be happy to-" Spike was cut off by a wide eyed Applejack. "Oh no! Rainbow! She needs mah help with a trick today! Sorry Spike but ah gotta go!" Applejack then turned and galloped away towards the town. "Wait! At least ask if she can help you out afterwards!" Spike called out to her, however, she didn't respond. Spike sighed and sat down. What am I gonna do about this? What can I really do? Helping her can only go so far and I doubt even us two can get all this done in two days. Maybe I can ask the others about helping. I'm sure they will be willing to help since she helps them alot. Spike made up his mind and decided to head to each of her close friends. He started with Rarity. I'm sure she will be more than happy to help. She is the element of generosity after all...and one of the most gorgeous ponies I've ever seen... Spike smiled lazily at that thought as he headed towards town. It wasn't long before he made it towards town and even less for him to make it up to the boutique's door. He smiled before walking inside, the sound of the overhead bell ringing in his ear fins. "Coming~!" Rarity said in a sing-song voice before she appeared from around the corner. "Spikey! Hello dear, what brings you here?" Spike repressed the urge to fawn over the stunning mare in front of him. He came here for a reason. He straightened up and spoke. "I actually came over to talk about Applejack." Rarity raised a brow in curiosity. "Oh, did she decide to get her mane fixed from what it was earlier?" Spike shook his head. "No, she's actually working in the orchard and her mane ended up that way I guess. Anyways, that's not what I came here for. I came to see if you could possibly try to help her with her harvest. She's really tired from doing it all by herself since Big Mac injured himself and needs help." Rarity recoiled slightly. "Me? Help in fetching apples? But I could get sweaty and dirty out there! And besides, I have quite the amount of work scheduled for myself this evening. I simply can't help her and do my orders as well." Spike sighed at that. He did understand that the others might have their own things to take care of, and Rarity being hesitant about sweat and dirt. "I understand Rarity." Rarity bit her lip in thought. "Have you perhaps asked the others? Surely they might have time to assist Applejack." Spike shook his head. "Not yet but I'm sure some of them might help her out. I'll see you later Rarity." Rarity smiled a small smile. "Take care Spikey." Spike then left the boutique. Its fine. There's still others. I'm sure they will have time to help out. Next lets go to Pinkie's since she is the closest...wait, isn't she too busy with managing the store with the Cakes gone? Aww geez there goes another helper and I'm sure she would have helped. Guess I'll go to Fluttershy's then. She's kind so I'm sure she will help out somehow. At that thought he then started to head out towards Fluttershy's cottage. Spike found out from Twilight that Fluttershy lived in a small cottage outside the the town near the Everfree. I don't understand why Fluttershy lives nearby there. From what I heard, the Everfree is really dangerous and scary and Fluttershy isn't the bravest pony by a longshot. Maybe she's trying to test herself or something...ah there it is. Spike saw the Cottage coming into view over a small hill, across a bridge. However, he froze once he came completely over the hill. The Cottage itself looked warm and inviting even from a distance. The peaceful sound of the stream of water running below the bridge, mixed with the birds chirping beautifully in the trees and nearby the house made Spike completely at ease and relaxed. Whoa, I'm definitely visiting here more often. Its beautiful. Spike thought as he admired it all. However he had something he had to do so he began walking again and crossed the bridge towards Fluttershy's house. Once he got to the door, he lifted a claw, ready to knock, but stopped when he noticed some animals staring at him: two brown squirrels and three birds, one a dark grey and the other two a sky blue. Spike retracted his claw and spoke up. "Oh, hey there. Is Fluttershy home?" Spike asked sheepishly to them. The animals merely pointed to their right signaling behind the house. Spike smiled. "Thanks guys!" Spike said as he followed the direction they pointed. She wasn't behind her house but he did hear a faint noise nearby. Maybe that's her. Spike thought as he followed the direction of the noise. As Spike got closer, the sound became more clear. Wow, it sounds pretty nice.. I wonder what.... Spike's thoughts were put to a halt immediately once he came close enough to the noise. He saw the pegasus he was looking for, but what he saw stunned him. Fluttershy was merely sitting in a small clearing singing. There were birds chirping beautifully and a small bunny cuddled close to her as she sung. The sun also was shining on her, making it look like she was in a nature's spotlight. Spike was in awe. Wow...I never knew Fluttershy had such an amazing voice. I guess there's more to her than I thought... Spike thought as he watched her. He didn't want to interrupt her for two reasons: One was he liked her singing and two he felt relaxed there; peaceful kind of, like there wasn't a care in the world and he really liked that feeling. So, he merely leaned against a tree and listened intently, getting lost in her voiceless tune. Spike had no idea how long he was listening and he really didn't care at the moment. Over time he got the hang of the tune she was singing. He then started to hum along with her, however, as soon as he did, Fluttershy stopped and whipped around with wide eyes surprising Spike. "S-Spike? Oh, goodness you scared me." Fluttershy said as she held a hoof to her barrel. Spike rubbed his neck sheepishly. "Sorry about that Fluttershy. I came over and when I heard your singing, I couldn't help but listen. Your singing is beautiful." Fluttershy noticeably blushed at that and shyly hid behind her mane slightly. "Oh, t-thank you Spike." "No thanks necessary Fluttershy." Spike said with a smile. After saying that there was a moment of silence. Fluttershy shuffled slightly before coming from behind her mane and speaking up. "So, if you don't mind me asking, what brings you here?" Spike semi forgot that he had a reason for coming. "Oh! Right. Actually I came to ask if you were busy right now." Fluttershy shook her head but then her eyes grew wide before she nodded. "Oh I almost forgot! I'm helping Carrot Top with the carrots that we will have to give the bunnies for the bunny census tomorrow." Spike frowned slightly at that. He did remember her talking about that at the party. "Oh..." He sighed, "alright then." Fluttershy frowned sympathetically. "Was there something on your mind?" "Well, Applejack is working herself ragged bucking apples for the harvest and has no help...well...more like not accepting anypony's help. I was hoping one of you could help or convince her to get some." Spike said summarizing the situation. "Applejack is like that sometimes. Whenever she says she is going to do something, It's very hard to convince her otherwise... But she still is a great friend!" Fluttershy said that last part quickly. "So she's stubborn?" Spike said bluntly. Fluttershy hid behind her mane and nodded slightly, seemingly embarrassed about admitting that. Spike sighed. "So there might be no way of convincing her?" "Well, you could, but it will be very hard to...she might have to realize first that she actually needs help." Fluttershy surmised. Spike nodded. "I wonder how I can do that." "Um, Spike?" Spike looked up to her. "Yes?" "Sorry to pry, but why are you doing this?" He smiled. "Well, to help a friend of course. I remember how she looked at the party and I was curious what's up. I might not be her best friend like you girls are but I cherish all my friends." Fluttershy smiled warmly at him. "Aww, that is very sweet of you Spike. I didn't know you were such a caring dragon." Spike blushed faintly and rubbed his neck. "Yeah, sometimes." Fluttershy giggled slightly at that. Spike calmed down before he looked up and noticed the sun late in the evening. "Well, I should probably head out to see if I can find more help." Fluttershy smiled. "Okay. Sorry I can't help at the moment. I hope you do find somepony to help out." "Thanks Shy. I'll see you later!" Spike said as he walked off back towards town. Spike was deep in thought about who he should ask next about helping Applejack. I'm pretty sure Applejack is with Pinkie right now helping her. I highly doubt she asked Rainbow to help so I guess I can see if she will. Spike thought as he began his trip to her house. However, it was cut short when he heard a voice. "Spike! There you are! I've been looking all over for you!" Twilight said as she walked over to him. Spike noticed a worried tone on her. "Hey Twilight. Whats going on? You look worried." "There's been a problem and we need to go see what's going on." Twilight said as she turned. "Hop on." Spike did as he was told and got on before she turned and galloped toward where sugarcube corner is. "Why are we going to Sugarcube corner?" Spike asked as he saw them getting close. However, he didn't need her reply because as soon as he said that, they saw the store with yellow tape on it and a large curtain nearby. There were some nurses running in and around it with all kinds of medical equipment. As Twilight got near the curtain, Spike hopped off and got near her. Redheart noticed them and opened the curtain. Twilight spoke up. "We came as soon as we heard." Spike had no idea what was going on, but found out immediately after he saw the ponies inside. They all looked very sick. Their faces showed a tint of green and there was painful moaning coming from almost each one. He cringed slightly at seeing Pinkie throw her head into a bucket and make crude noises. "Geez. what happened to everypony?" "There was a mishap with the baked goods." Redheart said. "Not baked goods...baked bads. Ugh" Pinkie said holding her stomach. Spike noticed that the food in question was sitting on a nearby table. He picked one up and examined it. "Aren't these the treats Pinkie and Applejack were going to make? I wonder how it tastes." Throwing all caution to the wind, Spike took a bite and chewed it before swallowing. His eyes grew wide before he quickly threw the rest of the treat in his mouth and chewed happily. Wow, these are delicious! A little on the sour side but still really good! How did they all get sick off of these? As Spike was enjoying a few more, Twilight walked up to him. "Spike, I need you to stay here and help try to make them feel better. I need to go talk to a certain cowpony that made all this happen." Spike nodded as he chewed. Twilight noticed he was eating something. "Spike, what are you eating?" "Its the muffins they made. They're delicious! Want one?" Spike said as he offered her one. Twilight recoiled in disgust. "Eww Spike! Don't eat those! Those are what made everypony sick!" Spike shrugged. "Taste fine to me." Spike said before eating the last one. Twilight continued to look at him in disgust but it was replaced with confusion. "Wait, you don't feel sick?" Spike shook his head. "Not at all." Twilight pondered that for a moment. "Interesting. From what Pinkie told me what was in it, It should make anypony sick. I wonder if you're just more immune to being sick..." Twilight shook her head to get rid of the thoughts and get back to the matter at hoof. "Anyways, stay here and help out. I'll be back." Spike merely watched as she trotted away. He then turned to the group of sick ponies. Alright then, lets see if what I did to help Twilight when she was sick will still work here. I just hope they have the stuff for me. With that thought, he walked over to Nurse Redheart. "Hey nurse. I think I know a way that might help them out." Redheart turned to him. "Really? That would be great. Do you need anything?" Spike nodded. "Yeah. I need a warm bowl of chowder soup for each pony. Most should be kinda hungry by now seeing that they probably got rid of the food in their stomachs." "But most of them wont be able to hold it down. How will we be able to feed it to them without them expelling it out again?" She asked curiously "There is a specific kind of leaf that if soaked in some soup and served, It will make ponies be able to swallow it without wanting to hurl. They're called Berry leaves. Do you perhaps have some?" Redheart thought for a moment. "I've never heard of a treatment like that before." "It was something I made up that actually worked whenever Twilight was sick." Redheart nodded. "Alright then. We will make some for everypony. It shouldn't take long." Spike nodded before walking over to look at all the ponies. He noticed that Pinkie seemed in the worst condition. Spike figured that the sweet devourer probably ate more than the others and got worse. He walked toward her and sat near her. "Hey Pinkie. Is it really bad?" Pinkie held back from expelling more of the treat and nodded. "Uh-huh." Spike lifted a claw and reached for her stomach. He then started to knead her stomach. The action surprised Pinkie, however, she started to relax and a small smile appeared on her face. "Ooooh that feels good Spike." Spike smiled as he continued to massage her stomach with his claws. He noticed her left hind leg kicking slightly and chuckled. Twilight used to do that too. I wonder if its just a pony thing? As Spike thought that, a bowl of hot soup was laid next to him. He was slightly surprised. Well that was fast. He then took the bowl and lifted the spoon with the cream colored liquid. He gave it two blows like he always did and moved it towards Pinkie. "Here Pinkie. Drink this. It'll help you feel better." Pinkie looked at the spoon for merely a second before opening her mouth and taking the spoon. She swallowed and smiled at him. "Tastes good Spike." Spike smiled before dipping the spoon in again to feed his friend. Spike collapsed on the couch at the library. After feeding Pinkie and getting an affectionate nuzzle from her, he asked how this all happened. She told him that Applejack messed up on the ingredients. Spike knew why though: she was too tired. Spike told Pinkie that and, after hearing that, she promised she would help out tomorrow when she feels better. Spike was at least glad that Applejack would be getting help tomorrow and after helping some other patients, it got late and he headed home. He figured Applejack would be taking it easy at this point so she will have more energy in the morning. He decided to make dinner knowing Twilight would want some when she came home. He went into the kitchen and made a simple dinner: seasoned alfredo pasta, two daisy with cheese sandwiches and a small spicy salad. He also laid a small bowl of gems the side for flavoring. He looked at the clock and noticed it was getting rather late. "I wonder where Twilight is." Spike said aloud. However, as soon as he said that, the front door opened and the aforementioned unicorn trotted in. He poked his head out the kitchen and smiled. "Hey Twilight. You're a little late." "Sorry about that Spike. I had a few things I had to take care of after I saw- wait do I smell pasta?" Twilight lost her train of thought as she smelled the delicious food. Spike chuckled lightly. "Sure is. Two daisy sandwiches and a salad too." Spike said proudly. After hearing that, Twilight's stomach roared at her, demanding that food be eaten immediately. "Wow thanks Spike, I'm starving after today." Spike nodded. "You and me both." Spike was heading to Applejack's to see how she is doing after making sure his work was done in the library. He was very hoping that Applejack had enough sleep so she could at least be rested for her work. After yesterday's incident, including the one about Rainbow Dash when she 'helped' her do a trick onto the balcony, Spike didn't want her making even more mistakes helping Fluttershy today. Although he doubted she could really do anything to bunnies. Spike went to the orchards and immediately saw the difference. She certainly made a huge difference from when he was last here. As he looked around, he saw the mare he was looking for. He smiled and ran up to her. "Hey Applejack!" Applejack turned around and frowned at the dragon. "What do yew want?" Spike was surprised at her tone. "Uh, I came to help out..." Applejack's frown deepened. "How many times do ah have to tell yaw! Ah don't need no help from nopony!" Spike flinched slightly from her tone. "But-" Applejack stomped a hoof on the ground. "No, no, no! Ah'll do this all on mah own." Before Spike could say anything, Applejack turned and went back to work grumbling. Spike was not expecting her to be this angry. She didn't have to say it like that. I was only trying to help... Spike thought. Spike walked up to her again. "Applejack?" Applejack groaned loudly before turning to him. "Didn't ah say-" "I'm not offering to help." Spike said holding his claws up defensively. Applejack's tone calmed a bit at that. "Alright, then what do you need?" "I was wondering when you are supposed to meet Fluttershy for the bunny census." Applejack's eyes grew wide. "Aww shoot! Ah forgot all about that! I gotta go." "Wait!" Spike called out but she kept galloping away. He sighed. Well, maybe while she is out doing that, I can help get the girls so they can help her out. Spike thought before heading back to town. "So let me get this straight, Applejack is harvesting the entire orchard by herself and won't accept any help from anypony, but yet you think I can change her mind?" Rainbow Dash said as her and Spike said at an outside table. Spike took a bite out of his sandwich he ordered and nodded. After swallowing he spoke up. "You and the other girls could probably convince her to accept help. Today is the last day for her harvest and I saw how much she had left. There is no way for her to finish it all alone." "I don't know. That mare can be pretty stubborn. Even I can't get through to her sometimes." Rainbow admitted. "Maybe if it was all of you, then she will listen." Spike suggested. Rainbow smirked. "You're awfully persistent on this little guy. Alright then, I'll give it a shot." Spike smiled. "Great! Now lets go get the others and...wait do you hear something?" Spike and Rainbow listened and heard a small rumbling noise. Rainbow took flight and looked toward where it sounded like it came from. Spike saw her eyes grow wide before she spoke. "Stampede!" Spike's eyes grew wide. Oh, no! Not again! He then saw once again all the ponies running in circles instead of hiding or getting away. He merely shook his head before starting to find a hiding spot. However, before he did, he noticed what the 'stampede' consisted of. Are those...bunnies? Spike knew there wasn't any reason to hide from bunnies so he just stood to the side. However, he had a small idea why these bunnies were running amok. He then noticed Fluttershy running after them. "Wait please! Lets go back to the forest little bunnies. Oh, no don't eat her garden. Oh...oh my..." Spike sighed. She did it again. Might as well help Fluttershy get these bunnies in order. Spike thought before hurrying over to help. "Hey Shy. Need any help?" Fluttershy turned to him and nodded. "Oh, yes please. I need to gather them all and bring them back to the forest." Spike looked around and saw Carrot Top cowering next to her stand. He ran over to her. "Can I get a few carrots?" Carrot Top merely threw three carrots towards him and still hid behind her stand. Spike merely shrugged before grabbing them and running back towards the rabbits. "Hey bunnies! Look what I got!" Spike said loudly and waved the carrots in the air." All the bunnies looked and saw the carrots before they all rushed straight towards him. "Yikes!" Spike then turned tail and ran right back out of the town, Fluttershy close behind. After getting them back to the forest, Spike laid the carrots in a pile and moved away. The bunnies pounced on the carrots and within seconds, they were gone. Spike sighed. "Crisis averted." Fluttershy came up to him and nuzzled him on the side. "Thank you oh so much for helping Spike. Things could have gotten much worse if you hadn't." Spike smiled. "Just helping out a friend. Speaking of, mind helping me out a bit?" Spike, Fluttershy, Rainbow, Pinkie, and Rarity were walking toward the farm. After the incident, him and Fluttershy found Rainbow near where he left. He also got Pinkie from Sugarcube corner since she was feeling better and promised to help out when she did. Rarity finished her dresses on time and after hearing what has been going on, decided to help convince her to accept help as well. "So where's Twilight?" Rarity asked as they got closer to the barn. "I saw her during the stampede right before Spike lured the bunnies away, but she just disappeared after that." Rainbow said. "Maybe she went to hide and stayed there?" Fluttershy said. "Or maybe she is already with Applejack, trying to convince her to accept help." Pinkie said. "What makes you think that Pinkie?" Rainbow said. "Because she is over by Applejack right now." Pinkie said pointing over toward a hill. Sure enough Twilight was standing over Applejack as she laid on the ground, Big Mac also standing nearby. "Well that's convenient." Rarity said as the got closer. As they got close, they heard Applejack speak. "Yes please Twilight. Ah could really use yer help." Applejack said almost pleadingly. "Well that saves us the trouble of trying to convince you." Rainbow said as they got close. Twilight was surprised. "Girls? What are you all doing here?" "Spike told us that Applejack needed to be convinced to accept help so here we are! But is seems you already beat us to it." Pinkie said with a smile. "Well you're timing couldn't be better. We have quite a bit of work to do here." Twilight said. "Well, lets get to work then." Spike said and they all nodded. Spike sat near a tree after all the work was done. He was exhausted. Phew! That was longer than I thought. We even had Twi's magic and it still took a while. I'm glad it's over though. Spike thought. Spike felt something cold touch his cheek and he jumped. He quickly turned to see Applejack smiling at him with a bottle of apple juice outstretched towards him. He smiled before taking it and drinking it, enjoying the beverage while Applejack sat next to him. "Ah know ah was acting up these past few days and ah'm mighty sorry for it." Spike smiled. "Apology accepted." Applejack smiled. "Ah heard from the girls about what ya did for me. It was mighty sweet of ya to go out ya way ta help me like ya did." "Anything for a friend." Spike said before he sipped on his beverage again. "Ya know, yer a pretty swell friend Spike. Glad ah'm one of em." Applejack said as she got up. Spike did as well and noticed Twilight a little ways away waving at him. "Spike! Let's head home! I'm starving!" Twilight said as her stomach growled loudly, them hearing it from where they were. Spike chuckled. "Well, I guess I'll see ya later Applejack." Applejack smiled. "Thanks again sugarcube." Spike nodded as he walked off. However he did hear Applejack say one last thing before he did. "That is one friend ah'm glad to have." Spike smiled proudly at that as him and Twilight headed home for a good meal.