//------------------------------// // Fine Dining // Story: Spike's Shadow // by DraconequusMaximus //------------------------------// Sombra was currently in an incredibly nervous state. Tonight was the night of Twilight Sparkle's thirty-third birthday, and Spike had invited Sombra to her birthday dinner. A very important, normally family-only event. Even Sombra who knew about as much as a two year old when it came to courtship could see the signs. Spike had even commissioned Sombra a custom set of formal attire from one of the nation's finest fashion boutiques. The outfit was even quite suited to Sombra's actual age and tastes. It was a burgundy shirt-coat with silver buttons, a rosy-lilac undershirt and rococo-style cravat, and a pair of dark grey slacks with thin yellow pinstripes. To accent the ensemble, there was even a matching burgundy hat and a circular silver cravat-pin with a deep blue stone. Spike had also purchased a pair of rose-tinted half-moon spectacles that he had said would go perfectly with the outfit. Sombra was inclined to agree. When he looked in the mirror he found himself quite a sight, which Spike seemed to agree with. Spike initially turned an impressive shade of crimson, further agitating Sombra's state. Luckily the cool night air calmed Sombra a bit. Spike had once more donned the dragon saddle and was currently gliding through the night from Ponyville to Canterlot. Sombra let his agitation slip away as he surveyed the beautiful countryside below pass by in the moonlight. It was quite a breathtaking experience. There were still only small hamlets between Canterlot and Ponyville, and the sparse lighting scattered about in densely forested areas was charming and made Sombra think the world hadn't changed as much as he thought it had. What really took Sombra's breath away was the approaching mountain-top city of Canterlot. The city was lit beautifully, like the facets of a jewel in a dark room reflecting light from a roaring fire. It seemed to be buzzing with activity despite the late hour. In Sombra's time the only city that could shine so brightly had been The Crystal Empire. Now though, thanks to the advents of electricity it seemed any large city could be almost as beautiful. Since Sombra had never seen the city before, Spike intentionally circled about before heading to their destination. He ventured about as low as he felt safe to do so, not wanting to cause a panic among the populace. Once in a residential neighborhood near the palace, Spike carefully touched down on the roof of one of the nicest-looking homes. Once there, Spike let Sombra disembark before removing the dragon saddle. Once the saddle was off, Spike made himself awash with green fire. It still took a bit more mana than Spike would like it to, but he was now fast enough that the change was nearly instantaneous. Tonight however it seemed that Spike had decided he too should don a bit of dapper finery. He was now wearing a tuxedo, complete with an emerald green bow-tie. It was the first time Sombra had seen Spike use the spell to alter himself more than a matter of size. "What you think? If you touch the tux it still feels like scales, so it's not really changeling quality, but I think I pulled it off alright." "Very convincing. Had I not seen your spellwork first-hoof I would be none the wiser." Sombra admitted truthfully. "Great. I don't wear clothes often enough to really justify buying any." Spike replied in relief. Spike decided to leave the saddle on the roof for the time being. He didn't expect his grandparents to accommodate what was essentially a canoe. Reasoning that it was far to heavy to blow away, and much too heavy for someone to try and steal. Let alone the fact that it was atop the roof of the Sparkle residence. Spike grabbed hold of Sombra and jumped down from the roof, since there was no entry to the house from there. The landing wasn't a problem, though Spike's rear claws did dig into the asphalt of the street a bit. Spike led Sombra right into the house after wiping his feet on the doormat, feeling no need to knock whatsoever. Sombra took in the foyer of the house with mild surprise. It was very much decorated in the same sensibility as Spike's home, though Sombra corrected himself. It was far more likely that Spike had subconsciously made his home look like a larger version of his grandparent's home. Even the potpourri smelled remarkably similar to the kind Spike used. It made sense that Spike would make his home like this, being what his infant self established as comfort and security. It was sweet even, reinforcing Sombra's high opinion of Spike yet again. Within moments of entering the house an off-white mare Sombra recognized from some of Spike's pictures appeared to greet them. She bore a stunning resemblance to Spike's mother, leaving little doubt as to her identity. It seemed Twilight Sparkle even had nearly the same mane cut as her mother. Her cutie mark was obscured by a tasteful powder-blue evening gown, though the purposefully grouped purple stars on the dress where they would have been seemed a fair facsimile. "Oh goodness! Spike! You've shrunk! I didn't expect that. You've even got your wings! I can hardly believe how much you've changed!" The mare tittered excitedly. Spike wasted no time in wrapping his grandmother into a supernaturally warm hug, taking great care with her. Sombra couldn't help but feel a small pang of envy that he had no such relations, but the sight was still heartwarming. Once Spike had gotten a flurry of grandma kisses on either cheek Spike took it as a cue to place her back on the ground. "It's great to see you Nana. I'd like to introduce you to somebody." Spike exclaimed happily. Spike's grandmother seemed to only now notice the rather dapper-looking stallion standing beside Spike. Her obligatory fussing over her eldest grandchild had obviously taken precedence over other social niceties. "Oh, hello there. I apologize for overlooking you, Sir. I'm Spike's grandmother, Twilight Velvet, and you are?" Velvet introduced, offering her guest a hoof. Sombra didn't hesitate in shaking Velvet's hoof, though the thought of just how many ways their meeting could go off the rails was running through his mind. "Good evening, Mrs.Velvet. I am Sombra. Your grandson speaks very highly of you." Sombra replied politely. Velvet blinked a bit out of surprise, but fortunately something seemed to click after a second. "Oh, goodness! You're The Sombra. How exciting! I'm something of a magic history buff, and I would be honored to publish your biography once the whole end-of-the-world business is cleared up. I was so excited when Twilight informed me there was a completely new avenue of history to explore." Velvet exclaimed, looking at Sombra expectantly. Sombra wasn't all that surprised Velvet knew the situation, but her excitement to meet him was strange to Sombra. "If my memories ever happen to return, I would be happy to have my tale published. I would greatly appreciate the world not thinking me a monster for the rest of time." Sombra agreed. Velvet insisted on asking Spike and Sombra both a number of questions for a time. They obliged, unable to refuse her kindly worded inquiries. Nothing too important to their mission, but more about dragon culture and a how Spike's training was progressing. Sombra wondered if she was already researching her book. Within the next few moments the group was joined by a blue stallion. Not only was his coat blue, but both his mane and tail were a midnight-blue a touch darker than his son's. His cutie mark was a crescent moon with a smaller crescent moon within it facing the opposite direction. It was either something to do with astronomy, or magic if Sombra guessed correctly. In an effort to match his wife's colors he was wearing a stylish white jacket, making them a color-coordinated couple. A bit cheesy, but Sombra had begun to realize that it was a trait was passed down the Sparkle family line. Even to Spike who obviously wasn't blood related. "Spike, my boy. Looking good. Don't know how you shrunk yourself, but it's a rather impressive trick. Convenient too. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't worried you weren't going to fit inside the restaurant." The stallion greeted casually, punching Spike's arm playfully. He soon regretted that, as Night shook his hoof to try and alleviate the sting. "Still built like a mountain I see. Still not used to that, you used to have to look up at me, now I have to crane my neck to look you in the eye. Getting old is a strange thing, Spike." The stallion joked wistfully. "You're only fifty, Gramps. You've got a good long time left in you, so long as you listen to Nana." Spike retorted. The stallion had a good laugh at that. Spike waited until he had run out of steam to introduce Sombra. "Sombra, this is my grandpa, Night Light. Gramps, this is Sombra. He's a good friend of mine." Night seemed just a bit quicker on the uptake than Velvet had been, though he did tilt his head like a confused puppy. Aside from the fact that he was meeting a supposedly long-dead villain something seemed off to him. "I was under the impression you were a unicorn, Sombra." Night stated with a remarkable lack of tact. Sombra was still a bit sensitive about being powerless, but he wasn't going to hold anything against Spike's grandfather. Looking past the less than amicable greeting, Sombra decided to play it off as casually as possible. "Until the malign forces within me can be entirely extracted and destroyed, I have consented to be without my horn. It is for the safety of myself and those around me, though it is a challenge at times." Sombra replied calmly. Night Light got a sense that he had just hit a sore spot and looked for a way to change the subject with a believable degree of fluidity. Nothing came to mind at present, he was never one to think on his hooves. Light was beginning to worry his extended pause was reaching awkward levels. Fortunately, a familiar face let herself in the front door, causing everyone to turn. The birthday mare had just arrived, wearing a sensible teal dress that still had a certain flare about it. It wasn't flashy, but it was certainly eye-catching. Sombra was rather certain that Twilight and Spike had a mutual friend in a talented seamstress. Hardly surprising, but Sombra wondered if he would have the opportunity to commission more attire from the mystery fashionista. For now however Sombra pushed such questions to the back of his mind and joined the others in greeting Spike's mother. Velvet, Night, and Spike all crowded her into a big group-hug. Sombra didn't quite feel close enough to Twilight to join in, but Spike forced his hoof. With a quick application of his tail's remarkable dexterity he was pulled into the public display of affection. Once the group separated, Twilight took the time to notice Sombra's snazzy new clothes. "Wow, very nice, Sombra. A Rarity original I presume? It must be worth a fortune. Rarity hardly ever does stallion's wear." Twilight complimented. The name Rarity was vaguely familiar to Sombra. If he recalled correctly, it was the name of one of the current iterations of the elements of harmony. A unicorn, if he was correct. "I have not had the pleasure of meeting miss Rarity. Spike procured this outfit for me, though I became quite fond of it near instantly. You look quite resplendent in your dress too, Twilight." Sombra complimented in kind. "Thank you. I just picked it up at Rarity's boutique. She insists on making me a custom dress every year, even though I don't wear clothes unless I'm going to an important state function or something." "Well you look lovely dear." Night Light agreed. "Yes, as always. That goes without saying. We should really get to the restaurant soon though. The carriage is waiting, and I'd hate for them to give our table away." Velvet pointed out. Without any objections, everyone adjourned to the awaiting carriage. Even though it was highly unlikely that a restaurant would give away a princess's table for being a minute or two late for their reservation. The equine members of the Sparkle family rode in the back of the carriage. Spike and Sombra sat on the vacant driver's bench, Spike's neck still being too long to sit comfortably inside. Sombra merely opted to join Spike to keep him company, and to avoid any further awkwardness with his family before dinner even started. A team of four particularly burly stallions drew the carriage around Canterlot, allowing Sombra to take in the nightlife close-up. Seeing all the modern buildings of Canterlot at night was quite enjoyable, and Spike seemed to appreciate the view also. It wasn't often that Spike got to see the sights of his hometown. Sombra even noticed a few ponies waving at Spike, though the more snobby types cast thinly veiled contempt their way. After around fifteen minutes the carriage stopped in front of a large well lit restaurant. The lit sign read 'The World of Cuisine' and there were flags of many nations hanging from flagpoles arranged into an alley leading up to the actual building. It was a mock setting of the United Nations building Sombra had seen in the paper once before. An interesting choice, but Spike had told Sombra that the restaurant featured food of all types and from every culture. In preparation for Princess Twilight Sparkles birthday visit, there were currently two guards on either side of the door. A day guard in golden armor, and a thestral guard in the traditional midnight-blue armor of the night guard. As soon as they caught sight of the carriage they saluted, and continued to do so until everyone had disembarked. Once inside, Sombra saw the restaurant was decorated in an aesthetically pleasing, if somewhat minimalist style. Sombra supposed it was because the restaurant was designed to cater to anyone and everyone, no matter their species or dietary needs. It was all marble, steel, and glass, and rather well thought out. Sombra found it hard to fault, or even begin to form a negative comment about it. It wasn't exactly awe-inspiring, but at the same time it was pretty and unusual in an interesting way. Somehow the people that had designed the decor managed to perfectly create an aesthetic that sat well with everyone and was generally pleasant. No symbolism, nothing that could be misconstrued as a religious or spiritual icon, nothing resembling a weapon. It was almost alien in construction. Sombra who felt out of place nearly everywhere was surprisingly fond of it. After Twilight checked their reservations with a unicorn at a podium the group was directed to a VIP room by a griffon waiter. The VIP room was surprisingly populated, though none of the ponies there fit the typical Canterlot snob stereotype. They were Celebrities and public figures, mostly unicorns and pegasi. Though there were a few earth ponies here and there. While each and every pony was dressed to the nines, it seemed the VIP room was a refuge of sorts. No one seemed too worried about their status and mingled with one another relatively freely from table to table, and several pegasi in blue and yellow jumpsuits sitting at the bar seemed to be tipsy, if not full-on drunk. They were all in good spirits, seeming to know their limits and how to keep themselves in check. The casual nature of the famous clientele did little to settle Sombra's nerves, but his normal anxieties about being in public were at least forgotten for the night. The largest table at the back of the room was saved for their group, even though they didn't have the biggest group. Even in an equality themed restaurant it seemed princesses and celebrities got a little extra. Spike opted not to sit in a chair, but to sit directly on the floor in an effort to not break anything. Fortunately one advantage to being a dragon was that as long as you weren't hurting anyone people tended to overlook any minor odd behaviors. "A pleasure to have you with us again, Princess Twilight, Lord Spike, and of course your lovely family. What sort of menus might you be needing tonight?" The server asked once the group was settled. Sombra didn't quite understand the question, but Spike seemed unfazed. "Three green, two red, and two blue. We'll have to see about dessert menus after awhile." Spike answered. The server seemed a bit perplexed at the reply, but he nonetheless complied. From within a pocket of his apron he produced the menus asked of him. Out of curiosity paid close attention to see how Spike would pass out the menus. At a glance, Sombra could see the menus were indeed color coated. Twilight, Night Light, and Velvet each took a green menu that Sombra noticed had a stylized leaf image, meaning it was for herbivores. Spike took a red menu and gave the other to Sombra, allowing him to see the likewise styled image of a steak for more carnivorous patrons. Spike divided the blue menus between himself and Sombra, emblazoned with the image of a fish, obviously some sort of a seafood menu. Twilight, her parents, and the waiter were a tad surprised to see Sombra with the menus decidedly not for ponies, but with a quick intentionally wide grin from Sombra they each got a view of his fangs. That quickly settled that matter, the lot of them a bit surprised but used to associating with meat eaters. Once the waiter took down everyone's drink orders he left the group to decide what they wanted to order. After a few minutes of deliberation and recommendations to one another the group ordered their food when the waiter returned with their beverages of choice. The waiter was mildly surprised when Spike ordered what would surely by a veritable mountain of food, but said nothing. Even Sombra and Twilight were surprised with Spike's appetite. "After all the business with the tree I'm crazy hungry all the time. It's just like it was in my early teens, but even worse now. I'll foot the bill." Spike explained with a minor hint of embarrassment. "It's perfectly fine, Spike. You're still growing." Twilight pointed out. Spike sighed, obviously still not too pleased with growing even larger than he was at present. Sombra knew that just because Spike carried himself well didn't mean he appreciated the size disparity between himself and everyone else. Spike had long since gotten over being a dragon among ponies, but if he got too large he feared that someday his body would be too much for the size compression spell. Something that Sombra had also worried about a little over the last few days. Twilight saw the turmoil bubbling beneath the surface of Spike's mind and quickly came up with a reasonable change of topic. An ability that seemed to have skipped over those possessing a Y-chromosome in the Sparkle family tree. "So, uh... How about we get through the presents while the food is being made?" Twilight suggested. "Oh, great idea. We've been simply dying to give you your gift." Velvet concurred. From within his coat, Night Light produced a simple slip of paper. It was unassuming, folded in thirds and tied shut with an ordinary length of twine. Twilight accepted it curiously, using her magic to undo the twine. Despite it's bland appearance it must have been something profoundly important, as Twilight's eyes lit up like the night sky and her jaw went slack briefly. "This is amazing! The entitlement papers for the master copies of all Starswirl The Bearded's spell books, journals, manuscripts, research papers, everything! How? How did you get these?" Twilight gushed. "Luna found them in some of the old castle's catacombs before the changeling hive moved in. The castle's scribes have finally finished transcribing them into collected works, but she figured your mother, Equestria's leading magical historian could preserve them properly. After that, she could do with them as she pleased now that they've been duplicated." Night explained. Twilight got up from her seat and hugged her parents, practically squeezing the life out of them. Once everyone was seated again, Velvet finished the briefing. "We've arranged for them to be moved to your castle. They should arrive tomorrow afternoon." Spike seemed both impressed and concerned with the revelation of Twilight's gift. Sombra got the distinct impression that it was because he thought his gift would fail to measure up. After all, Twilight's hero's original works was going to be incredibly difficult to beat. Even so, Spike knew it was the thought that counts. Spike outstretched his left hand, then quickly traced a circle in his palm with his right hand's pointer claw. A quick flash of green fire appeared and put itself out just as fast. Now, in the palm of Spike's hand was a rather stunning golden necklace. The real sight to behold however was the gem in the center. It was an exact duplicate of the magenta six-pointed star from the trunk of the Tree of Harmony. Had Sombra not watched it meld into the tree two days prior he would have sworn it was the exact same stone. There was no way an ordinary jeweler could have recreated such a flawless reproduction of the element of magic's focusing jewel. Twilight was equally stunned by her gift, even as Spike placed it around her neck for her. Even when she was wearing it, Twilight could hardly believe it. "Did you make this? It's absolutely amazing. It looks exactly like my element, and the necklace is a perfect match to the ones the rest of the girls had. It's just sooo wonderful." Twilight praised Spike's handiwork, giving her son a tremendous hug. "Well, a dragon never forgets a treasure once he's seen it. Plus, you've never been all that fond of crowns. I figured you'd like a necklace better. The stone gave me some trouble, until I got the hang of my earth magic. Growing gems into specific shapes and colors is a lot easier now." Spike replied humbly. "I think you should do this for the rest of the girls, like for Hearth's Warming. I know for a fact Rainbow Dash and Rarity would love to flaunt their elements again." Twilight exclaimed. Spike hummed thoughtfully, considering the notion. "I should be able to make gems for their necklaces. Just don't spoil the surprise." Spike agreed. Twilight went through a series of motions Spike would later explain to be a 'Pinkie promise'. Some sort of unbreakable agreement or oath. Once conversation had slowed a bit, Sombra mustered his mental fortitude in an attempt to make small talk. Fortunately Twilight's gifts gave Sombra something somewhat interesting to talk about. "So, Velvet. Equestria's foremost magical historian? Quite a prestigious title. Certainly more than a mere 'history buff'. Though I suppose it should come as no surprise, considering how accomplished everyone in the Sparkle family seems to be." Sombra complimented more than asked. Spike was impressed at Sombra's growing skill in the art of smooth-talking. His tone was perfectly pitched and measured, the impact coming off as perfectly civil and calm. If Spike didn't know how self-conscious Sombra actually was about his social skills, and couldn't hear his heartbeat sped up to a nervous pace, he would think Sombra was actually your run-of-the-mill Canterlot socialite. Velvet accepted the honeyed words with great fervor. "Oh, it's nothing compared to becoming a prince or a princess, but it is something of an honor. I always knew my children, and grandchildren were destined for greatness. Night Light here might look like a big softy, but he was a member of the Day-Guard before becoming an astronomer. My family has excellent genes from all sides." Velvet stated factually. "Yes, we're quite proud of everyone. Barely into our er... twilight years, and we have three wonderful grandchildren. Spike's a national hero, and little Amy and Rampart are already bursting with potential. I know it's a ways of, but I'm sure our great grandchildren will be just as talented." Night Light added with only a minor fumble. Soon after Night and Velvet finished their prideful speeches about their unbelievably successful family their food arrived. Great grandchildren... I've no idea if Spike wants children... He does love to take care of others... I've never even met a child. Sombra thought to himself pessimistically. As everyone ate and carried on Sombra's total lack of romantic experience or knowledge left him stewing in doubt. As the evening carried on Sombra participated in conversation less and less. Spike noticed, but most of his attempts to steer the conversation toward a topic Sombra could weigh in on went unsuccessfully. Spike couldn't help but think he had made a mistake. Either overstimulating Sombra by introducing him to an overly social setting, or by essentially asking Sombra out on a date. Not to mention introducing him to his grandparents. A step in a relationship Spike had only done once before, and much later into a relationship. A cut and dry relationship. Not the complicated situation that he and Sombra had been dancing around for weeks now. I'm so stupid. I think I've fucked it all up. Of course I should have waited longer than a month and a half. Sombra's not ready for this. I literally had an eternity to wait for the right time and I jump the gun in the first two months. Spike berated himself in his head. Spike redoubled his pace, vanishing the rest of his meal in no time at all. Yet all the food in the world wouldn't help him alleviate the guilt he was now feeling. Somehow Velvet, Night, and Twilight seemed none the wiser that two of their party were currently in the middle of blaming themselves for things that weren't even issues. Sombra finished his meal, which was delicious but under appreciated in the current situation. Once his plate was cleared Sombra excused himself to the restroom. After several minutes of Sombra's continued absence, Spike began to feel something was amiss. Not wanting to alarm his family Spike also excused himself casually. "I'm gonna head to the not-so-little drake's room. Be back in a few." With the grace of a much smaller creature, Spike navigated the strategically placed tables to the restrooms. Once in the stallion's room, Spike awkwardly looked around the room for a certain ash-colored stallion. Spike didn't have to look long, as Sombra emerged from a stall. He looked like he had just been sick, and didn't even notice Spike in the doorway. Sombra merely washed his hooves at the sink. Spike allowed him to finish, Sombra stopping where he stood once he turned to leave. "Hey there. Doing okay? You're looking a little pale." Spike asked out of concern. Sombra could hear the worry and the caring in Spike's voice in equal measure, and it seemed to cut deeply. It was rather auspicious that Sombra had already emptied the contents of his stomach, for the very thought of doing what he was about to do made his stomach wrench itself up into knots. They had been dancing around this for several weeks, and it was figuratively killing Sombra. "I honestly don't know how to answer that question. Physically, I feel rather ill. Mentally, I am both optimistic, and worried out of my skull." Sombra stated with a sad sort of humor to his voice. Spike was concerned, worried something was actually wrong with Sombra. "Sombra?" Spike asked again, taking a step forward. Sombra calmly put out his hoof, signaling Spike to stay back. "I ask you to let me say what I am about to say, and then you may respond however you feel is right. Can I ask that of you, Spike?" Sombra stated, deathly serious. Spike saw the tears welling in the corners of Sombra's eyes through his rose-colored glasses, and he sat down on the thankfully clean floor. He made no moves of any kind, other than a slight nod as a signal for Sombra to continue. Sombra took a breath, trying to level his emotions out enough to bare his metaphorical soul. "Ever since I have come to be under your care, it has been insinuated that we have... romantic feelings for one another. Something I once vehemently denied. I outright showed contempt for the very notion." Sombra began, having to take a minute to figure out exactly how to continue. Spike wasn't fully able to understand that Sombra had merely paused, his insecurities feeding upon the words he hadn't wanted to hear. Oh gods. He's going to freak out because I've pressured him into coming out on a date with me. I'm a terrible person!. Spike's mind rationalized in a calamity of self-doubt and fear. "However... I believe everyone else merely realized how I felt before I did." Sombra continued. Spike's deepest fears and the self-loathing he felt for wanting Sombra suddenly burned away like ice on the surface of the sun. Despite feeling like he had been shot in the chest a half second before, Spike was now feeling every positive feeling he could put a name to, and some he couldn't. He couldn't bring himself to interrupt Sombra, even though there was so much he wanted to say in turn. "I know our situation is absurd, and we have not known each other long, but there is undeniably something between us. I hurt because of what I lack, but you make me feel a sort of completeness that I know I would not have even with my soul. I know very little of what it truly means to be in love, but I know if I had to choose between you and my soul I would choose you, Spike. "I had intended to keep this newfound understanding to myself until the world had been rid of Dootha and his ilk. But the longer I kept silent the more I realized how difficult the feeling was to ignore. When you asked me to accompany you tonight I couldn't refuse, even though I have doubts I deserve your affections." Sombra finished, tears freely flowing. Spike couldn't let himself simply stand there to reply. Before his mind could even register a command Spike was upon Sombra, and Sombra was in Spike's arms. Sombra should have been alarmed, but he was totally at peace in the warm embrace. "I think I'd rather have you too. You're just as good as I am, Sombra. If not more. Don't you ever think otherwise. " Spike whispered into Sombra's ear. In that moment, and the split second later when their lips met, Sombra didn't feel empty at all. He felt full to bursting, and warm. He felt loved, and he felt the love that he had finally accepted for Spike. It was a more pure and blissful joy than Sombra had ever felt. When they finally parted, neither Spike nor Sombra knew what to say. The doubt and fear within them had melted away leaving happiness, and a bit of unavoidable uncertainty. The future was a mystery, but it was theirs to discover together. They merely stared into each others eyes in silence for a time, not feeling a need for words at present. Spike eventually realized he had such a tight grip on Sombra that he likely couldn't move, even if he had wanted to. After carefully placing Sombra onto the floor it was as though the bubble around them that separated them from the rest of the world had popped. "So... Wanna.... Talk about this? I mean, we both want this, us. Right? No objections, no regrets?" Spike asked as levelly as he could. "I am perfectly sure this is what I want. How we go about being in a relationship is something I know absolutely nothing about. I suspect you will have to... take the lead. As it were." Sombra said, unable to look Spike in the eyes due to the incredibly powerful blush on his face. Spike chose to keep his interpretation of 'take the lead' suitable for younger viewers, but blushed with a goofy grin at Sombra's embarrassment. "We'll take it slow. We've got an eternity together, if we decide it's what we want down the line. It's us versus the world. But we've got friends, and family..." Spike paused, "A family we've left waiting for a hard to explain amount of time, I've just realized." Spike started out confidently, losing steam as he went. Sombra readjusted his hat, thinking on their current dilemma now that his head was clear. Everything else had been shoved out of his mind during his heartfelt confession. Sombra only now remembered where they were, and that Spike's mother and grandparents were waiting for them. "Ah... Yes. I suppose we could always just tell them the truth... Or perhaps an... Edited version of the truth? I imagine we don't want everyone to know our relationship began in a public restroom." Sombra proposed. "Yeah, no. We can keep that to ourselves. We'll just tell them you had some stomach troubles. Technically true, and a good excuse to introduce you to ice cream. It helps stomach problems in small doses, and Mom's favorite ice cream parlor is only a couple blocks away." Spike agreed. "It might be best if we avoided making ourselves public until after we have time to establish exactly how we're going to go about being a couple, while simultaneously trying to save the world. I believe we can both agree that things are rather complicated as is." Sombra said politely, not wanting Spike to think he was having second thoughts. Spike nodded and chuckled a little, taking mental note to find a stronger word for complicated. "I think that's probably for the best. Though we'll have to tell Lyra at the very least. She's gonna gloat about being right for awhile, but we'll manage." Spike compromised, placing a peck on Sombra's cheek. Sombra blushed fiercely enough to show through his dark coat, but he was far from objecting. Spike then assisted Sombra in straightening up his appearance, and the two of them headed back out. The hour was growing late, but both of them were wide awake. Possibility and uncertainty waged war in their heads and hearts, but Spike and Sombra were happy. Being together was now all blessing, no curse. It was the same togetherness as before, but it was also new and stronger, if a little strange. It was indescribable to the new lovers, but they didn't care. Saving the world was now even taking a backseat to the two of them as getting ice cream together. All in all, a pretty amazing first date, even if it wasn't exactly how they had imagined it going.