//------------------------------// // Change of Pace // Story: Spike's Shadow // by DraconequusMaximus //------------------------------// Sombra was a bit unsure what to do with himself at present. Spike had recovered his mana from learning to change size, and had taken to practicing undoing and reapplying the change over the last few days. While he had gotten better at it, Spike still needed more mana to use the skill effectively. Spike could change fast, and he could even retain nearly half his magic. Unfortunately the risk of going into a close-quarters battle with less than half power would be an unacceptable risk. As such, Spike had headed out into the Everfree very early in the morning to train with Zecora for the first time in awhile. It was a welcomed distraction for Zecora, as she had been having no luck learning the secrets of the Alicorn Amulet. Sombra had learned of this the night before, but it was still a major change in his routine. Instead of a large breakfast Sombra ate what was in the fridge and drank his coffee after fetching the paper off the porch. After that, Sombra did his daily meditation and read for several hours. Sombra had now done everything he could think to do, and it was only eleven AM. Sombra eventually realized he had yet to see Lyra, even though he was fairly certain she was home. Lyra almost never awoke before Sombra and Spike did, so odds were she had merely stayed in her room. Sombra had no idea where Lyra's room was in Spike's necessarily over-sized home, but that minor inconvenience could be overcome easily enough. "Lyra? Are you in?" Sombra shouted in the seemingly empty house. Sombra got his answer when a crackle of magic from behind him caused him to jump in surprise. Sombra fell on his face, but quickly recovered. Despite the embarrassment Sombra was no worse for the wear. "Yo. You need something, Brero?" Lyra asked casually. Sombra straightened himself out, readjusting his scarf. "I don't need anything specifically, no. I was just uncertain as to whether or not you were home. I must confess I have no idea where your room is, otherwise I would have merely knocked." Sombra explained. "Oh. My room is upstairs, just past the lounge, and to the right." Lyra responded. Sombra took just a moment to process that. "We have a lounge?" Sombra exclaimed in disbelief. ... We have an upstairs?" Sombra continued, still a bit flummoxed. Lyra giggled and motioned for Sombra to follow her out of the living room into a nearby hallway. Sombra saw three doors, each as large as all the others in Spike's home. He knew one was a guest bathroom, and the other a broom closet. The middle door however Sombra had never paid any mind to. Lyra opened the door, revealing a staircase ascending to the previously unexplored upper floor. It occurred to Sombra that he had noticed Spike's home having two levels on his first visit. The basement floor wasn't visible from the outside, leading to the logical conclusion that there was another above ground story to the house. With everything going on, Sombra had simply not put two-and-two together. Sombra followed Lyra upstairs with great interest, allowing him to see the mysterious upper level. The first room had no door. Sombra rightfully assumed the new room to be the lounge Lyra had mentioned. The first thing Sombra noticed was yet another fireplace, which Spike had explained the need for shortly after Sombra's arrival. It was meant to keep the house toasty in winter so Spike wouldn't need to use more mana regulating his body temperature. The room itself was quite large, and there were a number of soft cushions positioned around the fireplace. There was a bookshelf to the left of the fireplace, and to the right there were several thin file-cabinets labeled comics. It seemed a good place to read, making Sombra wish he had known of it sooner. Though the real eye-catcher in the room was a large, ebony, grand piano with a bench sitting in front of the keys. It was polished to a lustrous shine, and looked to be in perfect condition. Sombra was actually wary of touching it, lest he somehow ruin it's majesty. Lyra noticed Sombra eyeing the piano and smiled. "That right there is Spike's baby. He used to play a mean piano, but he hasn't since his last growth spurt though. He's afraid he'll break the keys or something. You should ask him to play sometime, now that he's fun-sized." Lyra told Sombra. Sombra found the prospect of listening to Spike play the piano intriguing. Spike might even find it relaxing. Though he tried to hide it, even Sombra could tell that Spike was pushing himself as of late. Ever since Phomac gave his remaining magic to the cause. Perhaps reintroducing him to his hobby would do the dragon some good. Once Sombra had finished taking in the lounge, Lyra pointed out the upstairs bathroom, a room that was currently being used as storage, and finally the guest room that had been converted into Lyra's room. Upon opening the door to Lyra's room, Sombra found the state of the room utterly unsurprising. It was in almost complete disarray. There were clothes everywhere, despite Sombra only having ever seen Lyra wear a hoodie on one prior occasion. That very same hoodie was now hanging from one of the blades of the ceiling fan for an indeterminate reason. Most of Lyra's possessions were in a large trunk full of various trinkets and nick-nacks at the foot of her bed, unable to be shut properly. One of the more charming features of Lyra's room was a cork-board on the wall, covered in pinned-up pictures of Lyra, Bon Bon, Spike, and other individuals Sombra didn't recognize. There were dozens and dozens, all set at various locales all over Equestria. Sombra found them quite fascinating, as many of them showed Spike over the course of his teen years up until recently. It was something of a timeline of the drastic changes Spike went through from being the tiny bipedal reptile from his faint memories to the hulking titan he was now. While looking over the photos Sombra noticed something unusual at the bottom of the board. In an odd but flattering sort of way, Lyra had pinned a surprisingly well drawn picture of Sombra to the board. It was one of the nicest gestures Sombra could recall in his short lifetime, though he deigned not to tell Lyra that at the moment. Mostly because he wasn't sure what to say, but partly because he didn't want Lyra to wrap him up into a bone-crushing hug. Sombra was progressing, but personal space was something he still had trouble with when he was without his two-ton security blanket. On Lyra's nightstand was a rather beaten looking alarm clock and several more photos in frames. Understandably, there was a rather heartwarming photo of Lyra and Bon Bon on a date, a picture of Lyra and Spike at something called 'Comic-Con', and another photo that had been turned onto it's face to obstruct Lyra's view of whomever was depicted in the photo. Sombra decided not to invade Lyra's privacy and ask about the photo, though he was certainly curious. "And that concludes our tour of Spike's upstairs rooms, which the big guy has graciously allowed me to crash in rent-free. Which is why I'm heading into town to pick up his equally awesome birthday present." Lyra announced. Sombra's eyes widened, realizing he had completely forgotten Spike's birthday was fast approaching. He had intended to ask Lyra about it, but the quest for the gems had escalated and taken precedence over everything else for a time. Now however was an excellent opportunity that Sombra couldn't afford to waste. Though Sombra would require a little help. "Lyra, would you be willing to help me find something in Ponyville to give to Spike for his birthday?" Sombra inquired hopefully. "Sure. Go grab your bits and meet me in the living room. We've never really gotten to hang out solo anyway. It'll be fun." Lyra agreed without hesitation. Sombra quickly headed down to the basement and retrieved his saddlebags and his pouch of bits. He had no idea exactly what he would get for Spike, but Lyra would likely be very helpful. After all, Lyra had known Spike for quite some time. After Sombra and Lyra were both adequately prepared they left the house, starting the arduous trek into Ponyville proper. Once they got to the more residential area of Ponyville Lyra directed Sombra to a home somewhat off the beaten path. Behind the house itself was a large fenced-in yard containing another building of equal, or possibly greater size. The sign in the front lawn said 'Berry Punch Brewery And Distillation'. Lyra walked right up to the door and knocked loudly. Sombra had very little idea why they were at a brewery, as it was rather early to be drinking. Though he had seen Lyra have beer for breakfast, Sombra felt that they were here for something significant. After a few minutes a purple mare emerged from the house, looking pleasant enough. Though Sombra thought she literally smelled like a brewery. It was as though she bathed in liquor, to the point that Sombra held genuine surprise that the mare was sober. "Hey there, Lyra. You here for the special order?" Berry Punch inquired. "Yupp. Only a little over a week until Spike's birthday. Is it ready?" Lyra inquired anxiously. "You're in luck. I just finished it last night. Be right back." Berry replied. Sombra watched Berry Punch withdraw into the house and waited outside with Lyra. It was still something of a mystery as to what Spike's gift was, but given locale it was likely alcohol. Though Sombra was less certain when Berry Punch returned with a black case rather than a bottle. "One bottle of genuine moonshine. Distilled from pure moonlight with my family's super-secret process, taught to my ancestors by Luna herself and passed down through the ages. Strong enough to inebriate an elephant with a single shot, and not technically illegal. Just don't let it touch sunlight or it evaporates." Berry Punch instructed, as well as praising her own product. "Nice. The big guy hasn't been drunk ever. If anything can get him there, it's this." Lyra stated factually. With a use of her telekinesis Lyra packed the precious cargo away in her saddle bag. "Yeah, normally I'd charge you a boatload of bits, plus a down payment. You however are the only person to beat a member of the Punch family in a drinking contest in all of recorded history. You've earned it, just remember if you drink any use only a single drop in a glass of some other non-alcoholic drink. It's powerful stuff." Berry saluted with a mixture of pride and shame. "Yeah, just don't tell Bonny about the contest. I'd like her to think my liver isn't completely wrecked just yet." Lyra joked nervously. "My lips are sealed. Take care, Lyra." Berry Punch said before going back to her business. "You too, Berry." Lyra replied as she met back with Sombra at the end of the sidewalk. As soon as they were moving Sombra began trying to think of something that would make a suitable gift for Spike. The dragon had very few wants, at least as far as material possessions went. Something meaningful would be ideal, but what fit that description was beyond Sombra's comprehension. Sombra's first thought was something practical, like new kitchenware or a book. Though the kitchenware Spike had seemed immaculate, and he owned a great number of books already. Sombra also thought Spike might have mentioned his mother giving him books for every holiday on the calendar. That was something of a dead end. Though the prospect of finding a book wasn't totally abandoned. It would merely have to be a particularly special book to make the cut. Sombra decided it was best to visit a multitude of stores and browse their wares. Maybe a particular bauble or Macguffin would catch his eye, revealing itself to be the perfect gift. It seemed rather unlikely, but Sombra was unfamiliar with many of the new things that had been created in the last thousand years. Unfortunately, Sombra's skepticism won out. After revisiting all the stores Spike had taken Sombra to weeks prior to no avail Sombra decided to have Lyra take the lead. The first store Lyra led Sombra to was something of an oddity. It was a run-down little shack in the slums, though the inside seemed to be far more intact. It was moderately lit inside, and on each shelf there were objects Sombra got the impression possessed magical qualities. The sign above the check-out counter read 'Charmer's Charming Charmed Objects'. The name alone made Sombra dislike the store, but their wares were interesting. They were everyday objects, gifted with minor enchantments. Things like pens that let the person carrying them feel less anxious, or a locket that helped preserve the wearer's memory as they aged. All interesting, but nothing Spike needed, or that felt particularly meaningful to Sombra. The next few stores were equally interesting, but still nothing seemed right for Spike. After three more stores they decided to take a lunch break. But first they would add Bon Bon to their party, as Lyra had already made a promise to do so as soon as she found out she was back in town. After picking Bon Bon up at her candy store the trio adjourned to Sugarcube Corner. Once their food was ready the group talked amongst themselves. Though Sombra didn't know very much about Bon Bon he attempted to contribute to the conversation. Bon Bon was certainly pleasant company, and somehow surprisingly normal. Even though her marefriend was one of the most confusing individuals Sombra knew, or would likely ever know. "So, you two are looking for something for Spike's birthday? That's gonna be tough. I don't know Spike all that well, but I do know he's got kind of an old-soul. He makes everything from scratch, he dotes on people like my grandmother, and he doesn't even own a microwave. Lyra has to use magic to heat up hot pockets." Bon Bon exclaimed. Sombra had only the vaguest knowledge of what should be considered old, other than himself, Discord, The royal sisters, and the forces looming over the world. Though Sombra did have an idea who might have something fitting such a description. A certain equine acquaintance with a shop absolutely full of interesting, magical, and aged merchandise. "I believe I may have an idea of where to acquire something fitting for Spike." Sombra informed the happy couple across from him. After lunch, Sombra led Lyra and Bon Bon to the unofficial boundary between the slums and the rest of Ponyville. It took a bit longer to get to than Sombra would have liked, but he didn't know Ponyville nearly as well as Spike did. Still, knowing the general area was a good start. Before too long, the trio found themselves in front of the store belonging to Erlenmeyer Flask. The name of the apothecary was a bit wordy, and as such Sombra couldn't remember it. Still, Spike was rather fond of the shop, and Earl might just have an idea of what to get Spike for his birthday. Once inside, all three of them took a good look around. While Sombra had been there once before it was still a rather mysterious place. Lyra and Bon Bon were both wide-eyed in amazement, bringing a satisfied smile to Sombra's face. It wasn't often he was able to illicit such pleasant reactions from anyone other than Spike. The thud in his chest was dull, much less noticeable than when a certain dragon was around. It made the situation a tad more gratifying than usual. It seemed those without souls were still allowed some of the minor joys of life, which Sombra was only now discovering. After he was finished enjoying the feeling of doing something right, Sombra looked around to see Earl was nowhere to be found. Instead, to his abject horror there was a black and white feline sitting atop the store's counter. Sombra instantly began backing up, accidentally bumping into Lyra. Lyra looked to Sombra, seeing how scared he was. Upon seeing the source of his fear Lyra looked the cat dead in the eyes and remembered what she had been told. She instinctively lit her horn and threw up a barrier of golden mana around the three of them. Instead of attacking however, the cat ducked behind the counter with a startled cry. After the group and the cat both stayed in perfect silence for a full minute Lyra turned back to Sombra. "Call me crazy, but I think that cat is just a cat." "I am beginning to suspect that, yes." Sombra agreed embarrassingly. Lyra looked back to the door behind them and pushed on the bottom. It was revealed to be a panel that flapped back and forth. It was just large enough for a small dog or a cat to come and go freely. Sombra hadn't noticed it before, as it was the same color as the rest of the door. He hadn't seen the cat the last time he was here either, but it still left him feeling remarkably silly. After Lyra lowered the shield the cat jumped back onto the counter, it's ears pinned back in distrust at the newcomers. Bon Bon however was able to diffuse the tension by walking forward slowly and offering the cat her hoof. The cat tentatively sniffed it, then briefly rubbed it's head against her in a small show of good faith. "I like cats. I have one at home. This little guy here is named Sunny." Bon Bon revealed as she petted the cat who had begun to purr. "How could you possibly know that?" Sombra asked skeptically. "He's got a name-tag on his collar." Bon Bon pointed out. This has not been one of my finer moments. Sombra groaned internally. "Yes, well. In any event, Earl does not leave his shop. There is an upstairs, but I would feel wrong intruding upon his living quarters uninvited." Sombra mused. Sunny slipped out from beneath Bon Bon's hooves at the mention of Earl. The cat scurried up the stairs, likely up to it's master. It was unexpected, but convenient. It seemed as though the cat was rather intelligent, and fortunately it wasn't a shadowy demon bent on bringing about the end of the world. A short time after Sunny departed the steps began creaking. "Sorry, very sorry. I seem to have fallen asleep for a bit. I've been experimenting with some new potion ingredients and I suppose I nodded off. I'll be with you in just a second!" A familiar nervous voice yelled down the stairs. Earl slowly made his way down the stairs, Sunny laying lazily atop his back. Earl picked up the pace a bit when he saw that he had multiple guests, obviously a tad flustered being caught unprepared. Sombra was somewhat concerned he might be overstimulating Earl, but they were already there and Earl had been awakened from what was likely much-needed slumber. It would be a shame to leave empty-hooved after waking him. If things got to be too much for Earl they could always leave, or at least try and calm him down. As soon as Earl was safely locked behind the counter he eased up a bit and readjusted his half-moon spectacles. Once he had a proper look at his guests, Earl seemed to recognize Sombra. That smoothed his thinking out a bit, though it was plain to see he was a bundle of nerves just beneath the surface. "Good day, Sombra. Ladies, I, er... I believe this is your first time in my humble establishment? My name is Erlenmeyer Flask, but most take to calling me Earl. "What might I be able to help you with? A tincture or a tonic? I have every manner of alchemical remedy for a wide range of problems. Since Spike is such a generous provider of potion ingredients, and a good friend, I'm prepared to offer a generous discount." Earl greeted the group with as much confidence as the stallion could muster. "Pleased to meet you, Mr.Flask. My name is Bon Bon, and this is my marefriend Lyra. We were hoping you might be able to give us some insight." Bon Bon Earl looked rather confused, but looked to Sombra for some form of clarification. "I was hoping that you might know of, or have something in your shop that Spike might like for his rapidly approaching birthday. I owe him a great deal, and I wish to find even a small token with which to show my appreciation. You have a shop filled with magical curiosities, and are also his friend, and to an extent his business associate. I believe you are very likely to be helpful in my... our quest." Sombra explained. Earl smiled, obviously eager to help his friend and benefactor. Earl ducked down below the counter, prompting Sunny to jump onto the counter-top from his back. After some rattling of objects and a grunt of difficulty Earl placed a wooden box full of trinkets of indeterminate origin. The range of items in the box was rather interesting, from a set of seemingly ordinary horseshoes to what looked like a frog encased in translucent purple crystal. Sunny placed his paws upon the edge of the box and looked in curiously, seemingly considering jumping into it despite it being almost full. "These items are things I've collected, or crafted myself. A dealer of magical items comes through town each year, and I usually indulge and purchase a few things to study. I've even taken to crafting a few myself, but this one is my favorite." Earl revealed as he shifted some of the items. From the bottom of the box, Earl pulled a folded piece of black fabric. Once unfurled it was revealed as a black traveler's cloak with dull gray buttons and large hood. It was completely unassuming, other than the fact that it seemed a rather dated fashion choice. "This is what I like to call a Cloak of Dimming. I treated the fabric with a variety of potions and magically-based chemical compounds. It causes the wearer to shift the perception of anyone that sees them. It leaves the wearer visible, but makes them extremely easy to miss, going around essentially unnoticed. "Had their potential for crime not been high, I would have made more than two. I typically just use mine when I feel adventurous enough to go out, or if I need to visit the grocer. Going about unnoticed makes me less nervous in public." Earl explained. "Whoa awesome. It's like, instant ninja in coat-form." Lyra remarked enthusiastically. "While it is a rather brilliant invention, Earl, I don't think Spike could wear it." Sombra pointed out. Earl hummed thoughtfully to himself, realizing the fault with his invention. He rummaged through the box once more, but didn't particularly find anything fitting Spike. Earl tapped his hoof on the counter-top, as if trying to think of something Spike would find useful. After a moment of contemplation, Earl came to a realization. "They may be thinly veiled attempts at getting me to socialize, but Spike often tries to invite me to play cards with him and his friends, or some other such game. I believe someone like Spike would prefer something he can enjoy with others, like a game or something of that nature." Earl suggested happily. Sombra's lips turned up into a smile, realizing that Earl was definitely on to something. "A splendid suggestion. I also imagine Spike is quite tired of being beaten at chess. I shall find us something that we have an even playing field in." Sombra declared triumphantly, "Thank you very much, Earl. If you are ever in need of something, I will attempt to repay the favor." To add to the sincerity of his words Sombra went as far as bowing to Earl. Earl blushed, promptly hiding his face from view. The unintended side-effect elicited a similar reaction from Sombra, spawning an awkward silence. Fortunately they were in the presence of a mare that wouldn't let any silence persist for very long. "Well, that was freaking adorable. It's not my ship of choice, but I'd watch it sail." Lyra giggled. Sombra was a tad too mortified to react angrily, but fortunately Bon Bon gave her a look set to kill. Lyra quickly hung her head guiltily, which Sombra was currently fine with. After Bon Bon bid Earl farewell for the temporarily dour Lyra and overly embarrassed Sombra, the trio exited the shop. Lyra directed Sombra to a store downtown that caused Sombra to smirk a bit. The overhead sign read 'The Dragon's Hoard', and was made to look as though it were carved into stone. The interior of the store had ridiculous decor, all themed after a cave. There were light-up fake torches and plastic mounds of fake bits and jewels against the walls, and looming over the checkout counter was a plastic dragon only half as large as Spike's real size. While the store's gimmick was cheesy, Sombra had to admit there were a great deal of games and related memorabilia for sale. Sombra quickly began browsing the merchandise, finding that games had certainly evolved since his time. There were seemingly thousands of board games other than chess, table-top role-playing games, collectible trading card games, and everything in between. There were more dice to be had than stars in the sky, as well as counters, tokens, miniature figurines, prop weapons, and things Sombra wasn't even able to identify. In the back of the store there were racks with all manner of costume armor, wigs, accessories, and anything one might need to dress like a barbarian or rogue. There were even displays of makeup and other cosmetic supplies and how-to books. The entire store was packed full of everything you could ever need to immerse yourself into a fantasy world. "I have no idea where to begin." Sombra said as he perused a library of monster-manuals and dungeon master's guides. Lyra and Bon Bon could tell Sombra was a tad overwhelmed, leading Lyra to offer some aid. "Spike used to be way into collectible card games and stuff. He only stopped because he felt like he was getting too old for them. I bet if you got some he'd jump at the opportunity to play with ya." Lyra suggested. "Excellent. That gives me an idea of where to start." Sombra took around a half-hour to examine the store's selection of card games and narrowed his selection down to a game with rather humorous designs. While the outward appearances were comical, the game involved rules that made game-play very much unlike anything Sombra had experienced. It was called Card Wars and was based around the principle of actual kingdoms that had resources to allow for enhancements and numerous strategies. Sombra purchased two of each box-set, as well as the store's entire supply of booster-packs of random cards not found in the boxes. Eighteen in total. This would allow both Spike and Sombra to create customized decks, as was the suggested course of action. Spike and Sombra could spend time together on an even playing field, and possibly grow closer together, just as they did with their games of chess. Thanks to the store's reward-policy, any purchase of over one-hundred bits garnered you a fifteen-bit gift card. Sombra used it to purchase a box of many small six-sided dice at the suggestion of the clerk who was fond of the game. They were supposedly much more convenient than the cardboard tokens used to keep score in the game normally. Once everything had been packed away into Sombra's saddlebags the group split up. Bon Bon had already been away from her shop a tad longer than she wanted to be. Though Sombra was happy Bon Bon expressed a desire to socialize with him some more if the opportunity presented itself. Afterwards Lyra and Sombra made their way home. By the time they made it back the sun was just beginning to sink below the horizon. It had been Sombra's first real day without Spike, and he was essentially no worse for the wear. Though Sombra missed Spike's company and almost ever-present sunny disposition, spending the day out in Ponyville with Lyra and Bon Bon had been rather enjoyable. As soon as they got into the house the pair settled on the couch and Lyra broke out the joke. While Lyra worked her literal (and figurative) magics in prepping the joints Sombra transferred his purchases into her saddlebags. Lyra's room was the one room Spike didn't go into for any reason. As was evident by the discordant state the room was in. Once that was taken care of Sombra and Lyra headed up to the lounge on Sombra's request. Lyra briefly left Sombra there and packed away the birthday gifts. She returned with her record player and some albums from her room and put one on as the two smoked. Sombra found his first real experience with modern music enjoyable enough, though it was far from the orchestral musics he was somewhat familiar with. After awhile the two got to talking to one another, and Sombra learned a bit more about Lyra. Though Lyra expected some quid-pro-quo, which Sombra realized he should have seen coming. "So, Brero. I get the feeling you and the big-guy are sweet on each other. I mean, I've kinda got that vibe for a little while now, but you seem to finally be in on it. Am I right?" Lyra asked outright. Sombra had been mid-puff, now hacking up blue smoke out of surprise. It only took him a moment to recover, but he purposely milked the coughing fit for time. It was quite difficult to form a proper response, making every second he could take quite valuable. "I... I feel things, for Spike. Understanding those feelings is still a bit beyond me, but I do acknowledge that they are there. You are not the first person to tell me Spike feels the same affection for me, but I have no intention of discussing this with Spike at the present." Sombra admitted. Sombra felt strangely at ease saying it aloud, though he attributed the admittance itself to his lowered inhibitions and stress from the joke. "Aw come on! You two should just nut-up and admit your feelings to each other. You guys are already practically a couple anyway." Lyra complained, laying upside as she looked at Sombra. Sombra huffed, unsure of how to word his rebuttal. "I... I do not think I can truly reciprocate his feelings until I am made whole. There is a terrible emptiness within my chest that reminds me that I am broken, every single instance that I try and feel. Even today in town, behind my happiness was a dull thudding pain." Sombra began, his eyes beginning to tear up. Lyra saw the look on Sombra's face, and she knew that Sombra wasn't lying or making excuses. What Sombra was missing hurt him deeply. Deeper than she could help fix. It would be up to Spike and Sombra to fix it together, one way or another. "It's likely for the best. Until Spike has completed his objective and made the world safe again, I cannot be selfish to try and occupy his thoughts. He has the weight of the world on his shoulders, he doesn't need to carry me too." Sombra resolved. Lyra finished off her joint, putting out the end in a nearby ashtray. She knew she couldn't magically fix Sombra, but she knew that there was a way she might be able to help. Even if it hurt a little. "Brero, I'm gonna let you in on a little secret." Lyra started. Sombra saw Lyra's eyes dim a bit, unsure he wanted to hear what was going to be said. "I know you've got some seriously legit problems, but everyone's a little damaged. I know you wanted to ask me about that picture in my room. It's a photo of me and my family. The family that disowned me when I was sixteen." Sombra couldn't respond for the life of him, as much as he wanted to ask why, or to attempt to console her. "Now, don't go telling anybody this. Only Spike and Bon Bon know about this. You probably didn't know it, but the Heartstrings family is old-school nobility. They value money and status over everything, including happiness and integrity. From the day I was born, I had everything decided and scheduled for me. I just thought that's how life was. "Celestia's School For Gifted Unicorns was the first place I had any kind of freedom, living in the dorms during the school-year. As soon as I made the cut for enrollment, my family paid my tuition for my entire life up front. It was pretty great, until I came home for the holidays sophomore year. "I told everybody I had met someone there. At first, they were excited. Like, ninety percent of the students there are nobility. They had been planning to set me up with a noble when I was of age anyway. Unfortunately for me, they flipped their lids when I told them it was a mare who happened to be among the ten percent of average hard-working schmoes. I hadn't even told the girl how I felt yet, and my parents got her kicked out with their influence." Lyra continued. Sombra was surprised by everything about Lyra and her tale. She sounded miserable just speaking of her family, but the look in her eyes told Sombra she had cried all she could on the matter. It was just so utterly paradoxical to the Lyra he knew that Sombra could barely think straight. "I was under the impression same-sex couples were commonplace in Equestria." Sombra managed to say, hoping for something akin to clarification. Lyra let out an uncharacteristically curt laugh, hitting Sombra's ears wrong. Lyra wasn't acting like Lyra right now. She sounded like Lyra, and she looked like Lyra in most ways, but Sombra felt like he was talking to another pony. A much colder pony. "Yeah, for ages. But the Canterlot nobility are still backwards and afraid of change. They don't care about what their kids want. They want their kids to marry into other well-off noble families and crank out foals to repeat the process, forging connections and securing more and more wealth, with pedigrees to brag about as the cherry on top. "I was raised in the thick of it, so I didn't realize it until I was on the receiving end of my parent's glares. I started rebelling against them and tried ruining their image. In the end, I was disowned and disinherited when I wouldn't submit. Fortunately since everything was already paid for I was able to finish school and live in the dorms. But after that I was out on the streets. "Once I realized just how expensive things were when I had to pay for them with my own bits I stowed away on a train to Ponyville where everything was cheaper than in Canterlot. I got a job to keep me afloat, and I used what little I had to rent a tiny apartment. Once that went bust a few years later Spike took me in. I miss my family once in a great while, but Bonny, Spike, you, and all my other friends are my real family." Lyra finished, allowing some of the light back into her amber-gold eyes. Sombra had never considered that Lyra had darker depths than the joyous and random exterior he saw most often. It felt as though he had been cut to the very core, questioning what he thought of everyone he had met since his return. He suddenly felt low, almost as badly as when he figured out his identity was a mere fabrication. "I... I am sorry, Lyra. I suppose I haven't considered that everyone has their own damage, as you say. I have spoken to Spike about his troubles, and I know of Earl's conditions. I suppose I simply wish not to think about things of that nature if possible. I shall have to reevaluate how I look at people." Sombra apologized. "It's okay, Sombra. Nobody likes thinking of stuff like that, but everyone has some. You, me, Spike, everybody. Just think about that the next time you talk to Spike, and maybe it'll be easier for you to say what's on your mind. I'm not trying to rush you or anything, but sometime before I get old." Lyra suggested. Sombra smiled a bit, having a newfound respect for Lyra. He was certainly ready to call her a friend, but fate saw fit to interrupt the pair's bonding time. Both Sombra and Lyra heard the front door slam, practically shaking the whole house. Within a few minutes Spike made his way upstairs, carrying a case of cider from the fridge. He seemed extremely tired, and many of his scales were scuffed, some appearing loose. It was as though something had tried very hard to take the dragon down. Spike was currently in his compressed state, which suggested that he was low on mana in addition to his physical exhaustion. "Hey guys. Sorry I wasn't back sooner. Zecora decided I needed more training in actual combat conditions. She made me fight a ton of golems she created. While in my shrunken state, with just my magic. Then when I was out of magic she had me fight the same golems that reconstructed themselves at her command. It was great practice and all, but I'm beat, and we couldn't think of any new ideas for my mana troubles." Spike explained wearily. Spike wasted no time in slicing the case open, pulling out a hard cider and popping the unopened bottle into his mouth. A muffled series of crunches signified the end of the beverage, and Spike soon thereafter breathed a sigh of relief. "I was unaware that Zecora could create golems. I've never been witness to one, but I have seen illustrations. The spell to create a golem is something not easily come by." Sombra remarked respectfully. "Yeah, it was really cool. Right up to the point they started trying to beat the life out of me. Zecora becomes something of a sadist when she's pissed off, which is thankfully not a lot. The amulet is giving her way more trouble than she thought it would. She can't figure out how to examine it properly without activating it or destroying it." Spike continued. Lyra hummed thoughtfully, thinking she had a solution. "We could do science to it. Twilight has millions of bits worth of scanners and doodads made for looking inside stuff, finding what it's made of, all that jazz. I bet Zecora and Twilight together could figure it out." Lyra suggested. Spike drummed his fingers on the bottle of cider he was going to consume next, mulling it over. After a brief moment of contemplation Spike tossed the bottle gently at Lyra, allowing her plenty of time to catch it with her magic. "You, have just earned yourself double-desserts on any two non-consecutive nights, my friend. Mom has been passive-aggressively asking for more ways to help out, and Zecora might actually kill me if she doesn't figure out the amulet soon. Two birds, one stone, two desserts." Spike concluded. "Yuss!" Lyra said as she hoof-pumped triumphantly. Spike had Lyra fetch him some writing supplies and began penning letters. Using himself as an intermediary, Spike sent letters back and forth between his mother and his mentor. In about an hour the plans had been drawn up, and tomorrow Zecora would bring her supplies to Castle Twilight and they would work in tandem to solve the mystery of the Alicorn Amulet. They would both be occupied for at least a day or two, giving Spike plenty of time to rest. After passing Sombra his own cider Spike dealt with the case's remaining occupants. Now that everything had been set in motion Spike felt much more at ease. Other than the fatigue he was feeling Spike was once again his cheery self. "You know, it's been ages since we've used the lounge. I dunno why." Spike mentioned offhandedly. Sombra saw Spike's gaze briefly drift to the piano, his expression falling ever so slightly. It pained Sombra to see Spike become downtrodden so easily. Sombra thought now would be a good time to follow-up on one of Lyra's earlier suggestions. "Lyra tells me you happen to be an accomplished pianist, Spike. I would quite enjoy hearing you play, but if you are tired there is always another time." Sombra said casually. "Oh! Yeah, it's been forever since I heard you play. You're smallish again too, your fingers should be fine on the keys now. Don't you think?" Lyra added innocently. Spike looked down at his hands, realizing he was indeed the same size as when he had played regularly. It had been quite some time, but Spike remembered every song he had ever played. A perk of having a mind designed to retain information for eons. "Alright. Why not? I just hope I don't embarrass myself too much. It's been ages since I practiced." With that, Spike moved the bench out of the way and sat in front of the piano. Had he still actually been sixteen (and a literal ton lighter) he might have used it, but Spike was more than tall enough to sit comfortably on the floor. After cracking his neck and knitting his hands together to do the same to his knuckles, Spike realized he had absolutely no idea what to play. Lyra trotted over and prompted Spike to crane his neck. She then whispered something Sombra couldn't hear into Spike's ear-fin. Soon both Spike and Lyra were grinning and Spike returned his attention to the (imitation) ivory keys. Sombra listened intently as Spike began to play. Sombra didn't know the song of course, but that didn't matter. Spike was certainly a good pianist, and Sombra privately thought Spike seemed much brighter and vibrant as he played. It was a breathtaking moment from Sombra's vantage point. The song was sad, but not overwhelmingly so. It induced a certain feeling of bittersweet melancholy that captivated Sombra's heart. Sombra thought the emptiness in his chest was going to overcome him, but it eventually tapered off as the song drew to a close. Though Sombra couldn't quite understand the immense impact Spike's song had had on him. Yet another thing Sombra accepted as fact without understanding it. "That was positively wonderful. I would certainly not be against hearing you play from time to time." Sombra complimented. Spike blushed a bit, quietly enjoying the honest praise being given. "Yeah, I really enjoyed that too. I forgot how much it helped me clear my head. I may have thought of something that could help me with my mana problems." Spike revealed, sounding rather pleased with himself. "Really?" Sombra asked skeptically. "Well, kinda. I dunno if it's possible, but we can try it tomorrow while Mom and Zecora are doing their thing. It shouldn't be dangerous or anything... Probably." Spike admitted uncertainly. "May I ask what this plan entails?" Sombra probed, needing a bit more to go on. Knowing how little Sombra knew of certain events in the past made explaining his thoughts something of a chore. Spike tried figuring out exactly how to explain it without context, but he feared the first thing that came to mind sounded a bit crazy. Or stupid, or some combination of the two. "I have to go deep into the woods and try and talk to a magic tree." Spike stated as nonchalantly as possible, unable to look directly at Sombra. Sombra respectfully resisted the urge to laugh, even though Lyra was quite giggly. He had no doubt that whatever Spike was talking about was much more sane that it sounded. Or at least hoped it did. In the back of his mind Sombra questioned the credibility of the statement, not because he doubted Spike, but because Spike had quite possibly been bludgeoned in the head earlier in the day. "Right then. Tomorrow we set out to locate your tree. No better place to hide than a forest if you happen to be a tree?" Sombra mused with measured confidence. Spike chuckled this time, seeming to find Sombra's comment funny. "That won't be a problem. There's only one Tree of Harmony."