//------------------------------// // At The Gala // Story: Spike's Shadow // by DraconequusMaximus //------------------------------// Spike, Sombra, Lyra and Bon Bon had spent the last few hours getting dressed for the gala. Getting ready was easy for Spike, as all he needed to do was use Clypeus's spell. Which was useful, as Spike was needed to get everyone else into their outfits. Hands were something that even magic couldn't top in some instances. Twilight was needed at the gala well before everyone else, as she was in charge of organizing the tables, seating, and anything and everything she thought needed careful planning. With a quick letter to Rarity a few days ago, Spike made certain Lyra and Bon Bon had top quality dresses. Lyra's dress was white with streaks of gold and was much more form-fitting than most of Rarity's work. It was vaguely styled like a toga with a brooch-like gold clasp holding it's only shoulder strap together. In it's center was a brilliant topaz that looked much like the mare herself's eyes. A unique outfit for a mare without parallel. Bon Bon's dress was a bit more traditional, and done up in pastel cream, blue, and pink. The pleats that made up the skirt portion were layered like the petals of a rose, in alternating colors. It was eye-catching, but not gaudy. Bon Bon had also taken great pains to straighten her hair a bit in the back, keeping the front curled with a tiara separating the two sides. The stone in the tiara resembled a spear-mint candy, a subtle nod to her minty partner. Sombra had opted to wear his maroon outfit again, although the hat had been altered a bit to hide his new horn. Now that he could change the shadowy mane at will he did away with the ponytail he had worn the last time and kept it short. His rose-tinted spectacles also made a return, obscuring his slightly more angular pupils from public view. Sombra was positively electrified with excitement as they walked up to the castle's ballroom from the outdoor entrance, wanting the whole experience despite already staying in the castle. Although there was quite a line at the door, as everyone needed to show their tickets for entry, and of course every noble with a title had to have the castle-crier announce them to the whole gala. Fortunately, the flank-kissing ways of the nobles saved the day. Once everyone realized Equestria's only duke and hero of three nations was coming through with his entourage everyone parted to either side with almost mechanical precision and formed a lane of bowing socialites and nobles scrounging for brownie-points. While it was annoying, none of them would argue with the convenience. Upon entry the crier sucked in a great volume of air to announce Spike, but Spike motioned for him to stand down. "I think pretty much everyone can spot me. I'm five feet taller than everyone else and almost as wide. Save your voice." Spike insisted, flicking the admittedly hard-working stallion a bit. The stallion caught it in his cap and placed it back upon his head, a grateful nod serving as thanks. Sombra took the scene of the gala in, and to his surprise he found himself deflating at a steady pace. The anxiety he had all but conquered returned in full force at the sight of the multitudes of people of all races mingling and dancing about. Too many. Not to mention among the assortment was no less than ten crystal ponies, easily picked out of the herd by their lustrous coats. Sombra was beginning to seriously consider sinking back into Spike's shadow and skipping the gala. He would feel awful about it, but his heart was beating a million miles an hour and he was beginning to sweat nervously. Only the proximity to Spike and the girls was keeping him calm enough to appear like he wasn't freaking out. Spike could actually hear Sombra's heart threatening to burst from the stress, realizing the mass crowd had hit Sombra harder than he might have thought. It was the first time Sombra had been anywhere near half this many people. The closest to anywhere near this had been the restaurant on Twilight's birthday, or the movie theaters they had been to on dates. A soft golden glow tugged at Spike's hand, getting his attention. Looking to the source, Spike saw Celestia. She was mouthing something across the ballroom from the dessert table, which Spike took a moment to decipher and realize what she was saying. She got cut off by a noble who felt she needed the princess with the utmost urgency, but Spike was able to get the gist. Spike looked down to see Sombra plunging his hoof into Spike's shadow with some effort, but he saw himself get caught in the act and pulled it back. He gave Spike a nervous grin, knowing full well Spike had every right to be disappointed in him. To his surprise that didn't seem the case. "So... Sombra, maybe we should go introduce ourselves to a few VIP's? There are four here tonight that'll be on the council. Three we haven't met, and a certain feather-duster we'd like to forget." Spike pointed out. Sombra followed the path of Spike's finger, and to his utter disappointment he saw the familiar face of Gavin Eboncastle. The chaotic neutral dictator mockingly waved in their direction before resuming his conversation with some nobles who hung on his every word. Gavin held thinly veiled contempt for the nobles, but it seemed his love of his own voice and being praised outweighed the hate any reasonable individual had for the snobby Canterlot socialites. Jay and Roderick were of course at the table in dapper finery, both of whom seemed ready to fall asleep from sheer boredom. Griffons typically lacked the social grace or interest to mingle, and it seemed Gavin was the only exception in the family. Sombra wasted very little time thinking on Spike's proposition. The sight and sounds of the mass of people practically made the decision for him. "Just so long as we don't have to mingle with Gavin I'd be delighted to move on to the VIP section. It's far less crowded and sparsely populated enough that I can breathe without inhaling someone's ghastly cologne or perfume." Sombra rationalized. Spike was relieved to see Sombra cooling off a bit, urging him to take his arm in his foreleg. It was a small, yet noticeable public display, but Sombra couldn't help but accept. Looking over at Lyra and Bon Bon who were talking about their dresses to a pony Spike recognized as Hoity Toity. A flaming colt-cuddler if ever there was one. He was obviously interested in whoever the stallion on Spike's arm more than the girl's dresses, but Spike knew he'd gossip whether or not he asked him not to. "Ladies, we're off to the VIP section. There's a few people I'd like to introduce myself to." Spike informed Lyra and Bon Bon. Bon Bon nodded her acknowledgement, but Lyra looked concerned for some reason. Spike leaned in to whisper something to her. "You've got this. I'll come running if you need me. Even if I have to bowl through some nobles to get to you." Lyra still seemed nervous, but she saw Sombra darting his eyes back and forth, surveying anyone and everyone that came near. It was clear he needed some room to breath, so she adopted a confident expression and saluted. Spike nodded his head and saluted in kind, turning to walk off with Sombra. It wasn't until they were halfway to their destination that Sombra had calmed down enough to talk freely. "If I ever urge you to take me to another Gala I'd like you to strike me in the back of the head with something blunt, as I've most likely been replaced with a pod-pony." Sombra joked, now in much better spirits. Spike laughed a bit too loud, garnering a little unwanted attention. Much to Sombra's embarrassment Spike craned his neck downwards and placed a kiss on Sombra's cheek. Sombra turned red, but didn't show any signs of minding it. As long as no one knew who he was, Sombra felt a little public affection was alright. "I'm loving how much of a nerd you're becoming. First Daring Do, then comic books, and now cheesy sci-fi movies. I've never had a coltfriend I wanted to go to Comic-Con with." Spike teased. Sombra straightened himself out, adjusting his hat and rosy glasses. "I think it would be infinitely more enjoyable than this gathering of over-privileged rich halfwits." Sombra agreed. ... Spike and Sombra navigated the clusters of Canterlot nobility and socialites, making their way to the VIP section. It was in actuality little more than a fourth of the castle's grand ballroom that had been closed off behind velvet ropes. There were many tables, each seating important ponies and various members of other species. Celebrities, dignitaries, and anyone significantly well connected was here, and the paparazzi was kept a fair distance away. Photo Finish had been banned from attendance years ago, out of respect for everyone else's privacy. The couple's first stop was at a table with a pair of minotaurs. One of them was a reddish pink color, a female in a gleaming silver breastplate marred with scars of use in combat, and a studded-leather skirt. She was something like eight feet tall, although as she was sitting it was difficult to be sure. Her male counterpart was a bit shorter, older, and somewhat hunched over. He wore nothing but a leather loin-cloth and a golden crown. He was so muscular that it looked as though his skin could barely contain him. His left arm was rather interesting, as it appeared to be some kind of prosthesis made of living wood. It had been carved with runes, making it even more apparent it was magical in nature. Spike knew he was the council member Celestia had sent them to greet, but nothing else. Both of them were eating some of the ribs and other meaty delectables that Spike had spent hours cooking the previous day, and they seemed to be quite enjoying them. It seemed their appetites rivaled Spike's own, as many a plate of bare bones littered the table. Spike would have won an eating contest however, as he wouldn't have left bones. After it seemed the minotaurs were too wrapped up in their meal to notice them Spike politely coughed into his fist, garnering their attention. Naturally, being the only dragon in Equestria one would expect to see at a party Spike was easily recognized. Spike proceeded to offer his hand to either that would shake it, as he was unaware of minotaur customs. The female reciprocated, then the male. They soon motioned for Spike and Sombra to take a seat, both thankfully looked to be in good spirits. "Evening. I think you know who we are, but I'm a little ashamed to admit I don't know your names. I'm not very active in the political side of things." Spike apologized as he took his seat on the Ballroom floor. The minotaurs didn't seem offended, but it wasn't to surprising. The royal couple seemed much more easy going than most politicians Spike had met. "I am Queen of Minos, Minerva. I am pleased to meet the last of the royal dragons. We had hoped we might get to make your acquaintance tonight, but we couldn't resist trying your famous cooking first. It did not disappoint." "I am King Minos XXXVIII of Minos. I too am pleased we meet. A warrior knows another warrior, and you will be the greatest in a thousand moons by the time I am dead. Dragons are fierce. My left arm was taken when I challenged a dragon with little more than a mace and buckler. It was the greatest battle of my life." The king proclaimed proudly, flexing his prosthetic which creaked like old floorboards. Spike tried not to show his concern over the minotaur king's views on bloodshed, and fortunately they seemed to buy it. Sombra was a tad hesitant to say anything, but Spike used the spade of his tail to pat him on the back. Sombra felt just a bit better for the contact, removing his rose-tinted sunglasses and placing them in his shirt pocket. Best to make a good impression, it wouldn't reflect well on Spike if I acted rude to council members. Sombra thought to himself reassuringly. "Greetings, your majesties. While I might not be quite as deserving of your acquaintance, circumstances have forced us together. I am Sombra, and I do hope we can be on good terms, if not friends." Sombra introduced himself. Sombra thought of offering them his 'hand' to shake, but thought better of it. Instead he offered them his actual hoof since he didn't wish to alert the king and queen, nor the press who would no doubt find a way to spy upon the VIP's. To Sombra's relief he was greeted warmly, although he detected a hint of pity inn Minerva's eyes. "We are well aware of your plight, Sombra. Possession is the most underhanded of tricks. A true warrior accepts death when it comes to collect, but Dootha and his minions have no honor. You have been denied the right to fall in battle, and you have our sympathies. We are allies to your nation, and to Spike. Meaning we are your allies as well." King Minos declared, nearly crushing Sombra's hoof in his handshake. "Excellent. I thank you for your understanding. It is much appreciated." Sombra said in relief. For a time, Spike and Sombra chatted with the royals. While things were certainly a bit different on the island nation of Minos Minerva and her husband were decent people. Even if they both intended to someday die fighting horrendous monsters, which there seemed to be just as many of as minotaurs in their land, if they were to be believed. After spending nearly an hour Spike and Sombra moved on to a table with only a single occupant. A seemingly ancient bipedal turtle, eating a salad remarkably slowly. Celestia had pointed him out to Spike at the start of the evening, but he had no idea who he was or where he was from. She had been swept up in her duties before being able to tell him anything else. Fortunately, Sombra somehow seemed to be on top of this situation. As soon as Sombra's brain kicked into gear he bowed, and with a stealthy application of his shadowy hand he forced Spike to do so as well before retracting it. "Go aisatsu, ojisan. Watashi wa SOMBRA gozen, koreha supaikudesu. Watashitachi wa anata no sonzaidearu koto ga mottomo kyōshukudesu." Sombra said to the old turtle. Spike's mouth hung open in confusion for a moment, until his brain registered what had just happened. "Did you just speak Neighponese? When the heck did you learn Neighponese?" Spike simply had to know. Sombra smirked evilly, as he often did when he was proud of himself. "Draconian is the mortal first language. Other languages are surprisingly derivative if you trace back far enough. Your library's how-to books were essentially all that was required to learn many new languages with that in mind. If we are going to vacation in Neighpon at least one of us should speak it. "The book on Neighpon provided me with a cursory knowledge of it's history as well. Since the nation was founded well over three-thousand years ago, Uncle has been it's grand elder and provided it's people with council and sage wisdom. He is widely regarded as the most respected person alive today." Sombra explained confidently. Well... I feel dumb. I gave up on Neighponese after a week. Spike admitted to himself. The turtle also seemed mildly impressed, turning his attention to his new acquaintances. "Greetings, my young friends. I am indeed Uncle, Grand Elder of Neighpon. I have heard tales of your progress from Zecora, she visits me on the astral plane as I meditate from time to time. She is the only person I know older than myself. I am a bit envious of her youth at times." Uncle greeted with a spirited chuckle. His voice was smooth and caring, but it seemed dry at the same time. A testament to his incredibly advanced age. Uncle was a mere three feet tall three and a half at maximum, and Spike worried that if he tried to shake his hand he might break the old turtle. Regardless, Spike was relieved that Uncle spoke the common tongue. Otherwise he wouldn't have been able to contribute much. "Good to meet you. I didn't know Zecora got around that much. She tends to keep to herself. I've never met another civil reptile either." Spike said happily. Uncle laughed, seeming to possess far more vitality and alertness than his shrunken form would lead you to believe. "Yes, I suppose the dragons of my homeland are a bit more well-behaved than in the rest of the world. Present company excluded. Phomac, who I sense has recently finally departed from our world was the progenitor of your wingless cousins. They are hard to find, but an old tortoise knows all the best hiding places. I am sure they would be excited to meet you." Uncle informed Spike. Spike couldn't help but want to ask a million questions about how Uncle knew Phomac and about his distant cousins but there simply wasn't enough time. Instead he bottled them all up, saving them for the right time. "That would be amazing, Uncle. We were actually planning on taking a trip through Neighpon after we've dealt with Dootha." Spike replied with the combined enthusiasm of a small dog and a young child. Sombra couldn't help but feel good about Spike getting to meet Uncle. While unexpected it seemed to have made Spike's evening. "I would be honored to host you at my hut in the mountains. Although food is scarce. I rarely consume more than rice, morning dew, and energy from the natural world gathered through meditation." Uncle invited. Spike's enthusiasm waned considerably just then, but he didn't make it overly obvious. "As tempting an offer as that is, Uncle, we will most likely stay at inns as we travel across the land. We don't intend to stay in one place for more than a few days. We will of course be happy to visit you." Sombra came in with the save. Uncle smiled, and after some conversation told Spike and Sombra a story from his youth. It was an epic of growing up and coming into your own, and of love and loss. Uncle spoke slowly and clearly, and even though he was easily understood it wasn't truly being heard. It was a tale that hit the heart or soul more than your ears. It made one feel sad and happy all at once, and both Spike and Sombra teared up at the story and cried openly. Even an unsuspecting waitress carrying a tray of drinks was enraptured by the tale halfway through. By the time it was over the ice in the drinks had melted away and the waitress apologized and was on her way. It was enough of a distraction for Uncle to vanish mysteriously, almost as if he had never been there in the first place. All that was left of his presence was a lone cherry blossom petal on the seat of his chair. When Spike and Sombra tried to recall the heart-piercing tale they found it was impossible to retell. Neither could agree what it had been about, nor what happened. The only thing they could do was wipe the tears from their eyes and in Sombra's case dry and reequip his glasses. Celestia happened to pass by with a slice of cake (a half is still technically a slice) and a fork in her aura as they were recovering and stopped to smile at them. "Uncle?" Celestia asked smugly. "Uncle." Spike and Sombra affirmed simultaneously. "I've had him tell me that story a few times now, but I still can't remember anything about it. But I never regret it. I wonder how old I'll have to be to be able to tell that kind of story?" Celestia hummed thoughtfully before walking off. Spike and Sombra both agreed that they would have to visit Uncle in the mountains when they were in Neighpon, eager to hear the enchanting epic again if possible. Then it was back to business, heading on to the next table. There was still one dignitary the pair had yet to meet, but first it seemed the neighborly thing to do to check in on a mutual friend who had come upon hard times. Sitting at a table with two changeling guards was Clypeus. She looked better than the last time they had seen her, and she even seemed to be receptive to the time-honored tradition of pretending to tolerate the nobility. Unfortunately for Clypeus in the seven years since she hit the scene the nobility had warmed up to her. The general public loved how genuinely motherly and sunny Clypeus was, and she was well known for donating generously to any charities involving children of any races or families in need. If a noble wanted too look good all they would have to do was sponsor something in the rapidly developing subterranean city of New Everfree. One such case was the old noblemare who was currently pestering Clypeus. Spike's hearing picked up some thinly veiled speciest views, meaning Clypeus could definitely use a save. Fortunately Spike had a vague acquaintanceship with the mare, loathe as he was to admit it. Taking a seat beside the mare at Clypeus's table he politely waited for an opening in their conversation to cut in. "Madame Blueblood, if you would be so kind, me and my associate have royal business to discuss with the Matriarch." Spike asked the noblemare politely. The mare looked up at Spike, unalarmed by the presence of the dragon despite her speciest comments just a moment ago. She even seemed pleased Spike knew who she was, even though he had essentially politely told her to bugger off. "Oh course my dear duke. I read all about that business in Griffonstone, good work my dear boy. I wish my dolt of a son would get off his arse one of these days and make his name known for something other than being an insufferable twat. Or at least bring home a wealthy mare. The coffers aren't what they used to be." The elderly mare said happily as she shuffled off. Clypeus sighed in relief as Madame Blueblood departed. "I have no idea how that awful family is related to Celestia." Clypeus muttered loud enough for only Spike and Sombra to hear. Spike chuckled knowingly as he pulled out a seat for Sombra. "They aren't. Not by blood or anything, just in name. They had an ancestor like... eight generations back? He was Celestia's all-time favorite pastry chef. One day while he was bringing her her favorite cake an assassin tried to shoot her with a crossbow from atop a castle wall. The baker saw it coming and ducked in front of her, taking the arrow right in the heart. Celestia carried him to the infirmary herself, but he was gone by the time they got there. "She decreed that all of his male descendants would be honorary princes, and she gave the rest of the family a noble title and a whole lot of bits. Turns out his wife had a head for figures and she invested it well. But, money doesn't make for good people in most cases. And here we are." Spike explained. Clypeus absorbed the story, finding it made far too much sense to be a lie. Sombra had only read of the Blueblood's in the paper, but what he had heard was all bad. "Well, now that that's out of the way, we merely wanted to check in. How is everything?" Sombra asked, wanting to move the conversation in the proper direction. Clypeus smiled a sort of sad smile, but she seemed to have accepted the news they had delivered over a week prior. "We're all a bit shaken, but the majority of our generation has accepted it and moved on. Whether Mother is gone, or if she's plotting something. All of us agreed to turn her in if we see or hear from her, and security everywhere has tightened. All the thestrals were given pendants that prevent hypnosis, and she can't force a link upon anyone since I'm queen now." Clypeus listed off. "I'm glad to see you're handling it well. I was admittedly feeling quite guilty that we couldn't do more for you last we met. I know how difficult it is not to have any control over an unfortunate situation, and I wouldn't wish it upon you." Sombra empathized. Clypeus waved Sombra off, feeling his genuine remorse, unnecessary as it was. "Don't be silly. You helped plenty. Twilight told me all about your little star-pager the tree gave you. We wouldn't even have figured out she was gone for nearly another month when Luna went to resupply the feeding system if it weren't for you two." Clypeus pointed out. Spike placed his claw over his chest, having nearly forgotten the mark entirely as it had remained inactive since the prison incident. "Yeah... I guess so. I kinda thought it would be annoying at first, but it seems like it's just important stuff. Although hopefully nothing pops up while we're training." Spike supposed. In that instant Spike internally berated himself for inviting disaster into his life. Looking around, everything around them was either glass, metal, or marble. No wood to knock on, especially within the grace period. Sombra likewise groaned in anticipation of whatever horrid event would happen during their training. After bidding Clypeus and her entourage farewell, Spike lead Sombra past Gavin and on to the last dignitary of particular importance. Sombra recognized his species as gargoyle, but Sombra was rather in the dark on where gargoyles called home. They were referenced very rarely in literature, and much of it seemed to contradict some other source. As a people they were some of the least traveled and most mysterious. Sombra wasn't nervous, but he liked to be at least partially in the know before going into any social situation. Strange as it was, Sombra found fighting monsters much simpler than meeting new people in some cases. The gargoyle was about as tall as Spike's contained self, but relatively lithe. He was covered in dirty-blond fur, with a chocolate colored beard of considerable length and hair going down his back to match. He wore silver bands around his various ponytails, a dark blue cap upon his head, and a large string of jade beads around his neck. There was a stylized image of a scorpion painted on the largest bead in the center. He kept a silver staff with green stones embedded in it at his side, and upon his back was a set of bat-like wings in navy. A lion's tail swayed excitedly as Spike and Sombra drew nearer. There were several empty plates and pitchers pushed to one side of the table. "Spike, Sombra! I've been waiting for the two of you all night! I was beginning to think I'd get stood up." The gargoyle chuckled warmly, albeit a bit loudly for their comfort. After looking around to be certain no one had heard the gargoyle say 'Sombra' the pair sat down at his table. "Uh... Hi there? Sorry? We were just working our way over in order of closeness. Nothing personal." Spike apologized uneasily. The gargoyle chuckled, took a large drink from a beer stein and wiped his mouth with his napkin before responding. "Ah, don't be so glum! It's a party after all. Most of my people don't believe in drinking alcohol, so forgive me for being a bit giddy. I tend to overindulge when I'm away from the Sundered Lands. A certain unicorn introduced me to beer and mead over a thousand years ago, and I've found it hard to kick the habit, rare as my binders are." The gargoyle admitted. After finishing off the large stein the gargoyle set it aside, then placed his elbows on the table and knitted his fingers together. Sombra had a feeling it was to help him keep his head about him. "Anyway, the name's Scorpan. I'm not too well known, but I'm honored and humbled to call myself the King of The Sundered Lands. My older brother on the other hand, I'm sorry to say he's famous for all the wrong reasons. His name is Tirek." Spike involuntarily went from picturing Scorpan to Tirek, then Scorpan again, and back and forth. It was almost impossible to fathom that they were brothers. Sombra was likewise confused, knowing what Tirek looked like from the book of villains he had read upon his return. Scorpan saw there combined confusion, but didn't seem at all surprised. He seemed to have fully expected such a reaction. "The reason my country is called The Sundered Lands, or separated lands, is because we are of two people. Mighty centaurs, and crafty gargoyles. Our two races once warred to the point only handfuls remained of either species, and over petty squabbles nonetheless. At such time a great dragon who blotted out the sky with his mere presence chastised our young and foolish races, and forever bonded us together by blood. "Now only a couple of one centaur and one gargoyle can bare children. A centaur couple cannot have children, nor can a gargoyle couple. We were forced to either intermingle or die out slowly due to our own foolishness. That is why my brother is a centaur, while I am a gargoyle. Our mother was a gargoyle, and our father a centaur. It is a strange circumstance, but it forged unbreakable bonds to between our races. Though we are separate, we will always be one." Scorpan explained. "Whoa. That was kind of harsh, but I'm glad it worked out in the end." Spike laughed nervously, unsure how Scorpan felt about the dragon's actions. Scorpan saw the apprehension in Spike's face and saw he was giving off a bit of a serious vibe where it was unnecessary. "That dragon was Dramaal, your ancestor, Spike. I learned this secret of history when I became king, shortly after my brother was first imprisoned. I was good friends with your grandfather Beasha, who called my kingdom home, and I knew your mother Nabi when she was very little. I was greatly saddened to hear of their passings. I've waited quite some time to meet you, after I found out Nabi had entrusted an egg to Zecora a millennia ago." Scorpan explained, shedding a single tear as he finished. Spike had no idea Dramaal had possessed that kind of power, but the revelation that Scorpan had known his grandfather was much more welcome than Gavin's story of regret and death. There was no betrayal or super-evils, just genuine feelings of sadness for the losses of friends. While it wasn't the happiest of topics, Spike felt glad Scorpan had been direct and more clear with his message. It was something of a rarity among beings over a thousand years old. Most seemed to enjoy being secretive and mysterious. "You aren't the first person to tell me about my family, but I think I'd actually be fine with calling you a friend. I don't recommend forging too strong an alliance with Griffonstone, on that note." Spike chuckled nervously, offering Scorpan his hand. Scorpan smiled and shook, glad he was being received warmly. "Ah yes... I thought I recognized that smug beaked face. Never liked that one." Scorpan declared honestly, "Regardless, I can tell you're making great strides, Sombra. I can barely see Dootha in your aura. And you've got yourself a truly deep black going. That's a rare trait these days. You'll both be a force to be reckoned with in no time at all, and unlike my brother I see the two of you know when, why, and where to use your powers." Scorpan assured them. Spike felt confident in himself after such warm receptions from the members of the council they had met tonight. Neither Spike nor Sombra had held out that much hope initially. Unfortunately, Scorpan didn't seem to be finished speaking. Scorpan seemed reluctant to say whatever it was he wanted to tell them, but it seemed important. The aged gargoyle looked around, making sure no one was watching them. Once Scorpan was sure of it he tapped the butt of his staff on the marble floor. A vibrant yellow glow erupted forth from the staff in the form of a near translucent bubble that covered Spike, Sombra, and Scorpan before rendering itself invisible. Spike recognized the nature of the spell as a soundproofing charm, a powerful one too. Scorpan definitely didn't want anyone hearing whatever was about to be said. "While Minos, Neighpon, Griffonstone, and my Sundered Lands are on your side the younger countries have little respect for the lineage of the dragons. When the Grand Council convenes in three months you will be put on the chopping block by the remaining rulers and immortals. They will verbally assault the two of you, calling everything you are, and everything you can do into question. "You will need to be able to answer any question they can pose, and have a satisfying answer. If the majority vote decides you aren't up to the task they will proceed to try and fight Dootha in there own way. Whatever it may be, they will fail. The two of you are the only ones who have the ability to defeat Dootha. If the nonbelievers try, they will surely perish. While it would not be your fault, it should obviously be avoided at all costs. "I am sorry to drop this on you now, but it would be best if you prepared well ahead of time. We are literally asking the world of you, but we have little choice. All I can offer you is my support and a personal favor that is within my power to grant, at any point in the future." Scorpan almost seemed to age as he spoke, showing that his years had been earned the hard way. It was obvious he meant every word, as much as it pained him to ask everything of his new friends. Two youths in his ancient eyes, that the weight of the world was slowly but surely crashing down upon. Scorpan felt like the lowest of the low for putting everything on them, even after all Sombra and Spike had been through already. It was buy and large why Scorpan had sat so far away. That way he could drink his weight in beer and mead before telling them everything. To their credit, Spike and Sombra didn't get entirely bowled over by the information. They had been briefed on an absurd amount of amazing and/or horrid topics in the last few months. While the threat of letting whatever plan the world leaders and remaining immortals conceived fail was terrifying, Scorpan seemed to be blaming himself for the circumstances far more than necessary. Spike reached over and placed his hand on Scorpan's shoulder. "Hey, we get it. Things don't look great, but we've got prep time. Don't sweat it. I've known this was coming eventually for a few years now. Granted I freaked the hell out at first. If we let it get to us we'd go crazy. Don't worry about it, Scorpan." Spike assured the aged king. Sombra likewise felt Scorpan's kindly nature was forcing him to take much more grief and shame than necessary. "I agree. While I have had much less time to cope, I had help realizing nothing would come of obsessing over loss, and things that had yet to happen. And, that there are people that will accept me no matter what my past is like. Though some will take longer than others." Sombra added. Sombra carefully interlaced a shadowy hand with Spike's beneath the table. Stopping to consider how fortunate he was had actually made Sombra a bit emotional. He would later attribute it to the champagne, but either way Spike wasn't complaining about the openness Sombra was showing. Scorpan laughed inwardly at himself a bit before he recomposed himself. "Ah, an old fellow like myself should be made to feel foolish now and then. Keeps us from getting too high and mighty about being wise. How about I flag a waiter and get us a few rounds, eh?" Scorpan offered, tapping the staff once more and bursting the bubble. Spike was about to accept, but something caught his attention. Sombra saw his ear-fin move, trying to hone in on a sound. "As fun as it sounds, we'll have to take a rain-check. I've got a feeling a friend of ours could use some help on the other side of the dance-floor." Spike apologized. As Spike and Sombra scurried off at something of an alarming pace Scorpan took a drink and sighed contently. He watched them go and saw there was already a large commotion going on. Something had caused a halt to the evening's festivities while they were inside the sphere of privacy. "Ah well. I shouldn't hold up a pair of busy youngsters anyway. It'd be a shame if they were too late to save someone because they were listening to a drunk old man." Scorpan chuckled to himself as he flagged down a waiter carrying a tray of snacks. ~Moments Earlier, Across The Ballroom~ At the generously stocked bar relegated to one corner of the dance floor was a turquoise mare refueling on liquid courage. Her creamy companion was starting to worry, as Lyra had paid several visits to the bar already. Every fifteen minutes, Lyra and Bon Bon would rhythmically migrate across the dance floor a certain distance, and then Lyra would come up with some kind of excuse to flee back to the bar and indulge in the castle's perfectly aged whiskey. Bon Bon had been overjoyed when Lyra had showed up at her doorstep a few weeks back with the tickets, but every time they had been together since had been off somehow. Something seemed to be greatly bothering Lyra, more than anything Bon Bon had ever seen before. Now it was starting to scare her, as Lyra seemed perfectly ready to kill herself with liquor before confronting whatever it was. "Lyra, what is going on with you? You've been acting weird all month, and for some reason when we get to go to the biggest party of the year you hide in the corner and go through more liquor than a small country." Bon Bon asked, sounding deeply worried. Lyra would have panicked, but she seemed to have just hit a point where she was feeling reasonably confident. Which was good, because she was already leaning towards being more alcohol than mare at this point. Even then it took Lyra a minute to work up the nerve, but once every cell of her being was saturated with whiskey she was ready. "Bonny... I'm gonna be totally honest with you. Over there at one of those tables is my family. Mom, Dad, and probably my stupid older brother. I haven't spoken to them in like... fifteen years? I was gonna try and be a big mare about it and introduce you and rub my happiness in their snooty faces, but now it's taking a lot of concentration not to barf, and/or pee." Lyra revealed, talking much faster than normally. Having something of a bomb dropped on her Bon Bon momentarily forgot where they were, and the ability to control the volume of her voice. "What the actual hell, Lyra?!" Bon Bon shouted just a little too loudly. Lyra cringed, feeling the full guilt she was meant to magnified in her almost transcendent state of inebriation. "Well... I uh, sort of got disowned by them? They wanted to force me to marry some noble dude, and I sort of said no because I'm a lesbian. They didn't like that." Lyra explained shakily. "We most certainly did not." A chill ran down Lyra's spine at the unmistakable feminine voice that sounded behind her. The tone was cold, and the mare herself certainly looked frigid. She was ice blue, and her mane was much like Lyra's but longer in the back and a pure shiny white. Her eyes were gold, but Bon Bon couldn't ever bring herself to compare them to Lyra's. There was no warmth there. It was a cold calculating stare more fit for an owl that was ready to swoop down on a field mouse. She wore a silvery white dress that looked to be worth more than Bon Bon's business. Somehow she registered as Lyra's mother, or the living incarnation of a Windigo. To her left was a somewhat chubby but fairly attractive stallion with glasses, a pale yellow in color. He wore a powder-blue tuxedo with a white cravat making clash with his coat terribly. His blue mane was cut short, and his flag-shaped cravat pin seemed to peg him as some sort of military officer. He looked generally disapproving about anything and everything. His age made him a likely candidate to be Lyra's brother. To the cold mare's right was a green stallion that could only be described as having a sour look about him. He wore a suit in a sickly green with an emerald and black pinstripe bow tie. His mane was a deep green bordering on black, slicked back with pomade to the point of gleaming. By process of elimination it stood to reason that he was Lyra's father. All together the trio of unicorns each looked a bit like Lyra, but at the same time they couldn't be further removed from Lyra's positive energy and childlike vitality. Lyra genuinely didn't seem to know how to respond, and it looked as though she was near a breakdown. Bon Bon quickly stepped in front of Lyra, realizing her outburst must have drawn their attention. She wanted nothing more than to leave, and to take Lyra with her. But the Canterlot socialites and nobility were now watching like hawks, forming a circle around the five of them. "Uh... Hello there, Mrs.Heartstrings... I didn't know you were in attendance. I-I uh, I don't think we've been introduced." Bon Bon deflected as politely as she could fake. With the grace of a predatory cat, Lyra's mother was upon Bon Bon in what seemed like a blink. Making direct eye contact with the mare made Bon Bon recall the well known but often overlooked fact she and essentially everyone she knew was going to die one day. There was that much malice stored in those eyes that dared to resemble Lyra's, the eyes she loved to gaze into whenever the opportunity arose. "I should say not. We haven't seen hide nor hair of our delinquent daughter in years. Not that we minded. But, a member of the Heartstrings family cannot go about causing a scene at the biggest event of the year. We cannot allow that quivering mare behind you stain our name any further. We'll be taking her home now, perhaps we can send her to one of those homes for the mentally ill." "She would certainly fit right in." The husband added haughtily. Lyra's brother seemed unable to change his default setting of disgust and contempt, but it somehow seemed to make the situation worse as he didn't deem it his duty to weigh in. He merely watched his parents verbally abuse his little sister with cold indifference. Bon Bon glared daggers at Lyra's so-called 'family', more than willing to fight if they tried to even touch her Lyra. Although Lyra's mother was currently Bon Bon's definition of the devil, Lyra was currently unable to defend herself. The combination of her drunkenness and the return of her abusive family were too much. "You leave Lyra alone! I wanted to meet her family so badly she brought us here, even though she knew you three monsters would be here! If I had known how awful you were I would never have set hoof in the same room! I'm taking Lyra home with me, and I don't care what you, or your stupid money have to say about it!" Bon Bon practically roared at the noblemare who dared call herself Lyra's mother. Mrs.Heartstrings was having none of it. The icy mare all but pressed her face to Bon Bon's, raising her right hoof into the air as she did so. "You commoner trash! You are in no position to talk to me that way! You are a nobody!" Mrs.Heartstrings bellowed, preparing to smack Bon Bon. Bon Bon couldn't think fast enough to do anything but shut her eyes, but when the surprised gasps of the crowd rang out without pain striking her Bon Bon opened them. The cold-hearted mare's hoof never made it to Bon Bon's face, as a long dexterous tail had grabbed hold of her and had her dangling several feet off the ballroom floor. Before she could figure out what was going on she found herself being stared down by a terrifying dragon. Spike had never shown such a fiery and downright menacing expression in public before, and a few of the more weak-hearted onlookers did their best to get as far back as possible. The temperature in the room had to have jumped a good twenty degrees from the heat of Spike's rage alone, but no one dared to remove their focus away from Spike long enough to notice. All eyes were on Spike, and to a much lesser extent Mrs.Heartstrings. "Ma'am, while I've never met you before, Lyra's told me all about you. I've known precisely who you were for years now, and as much as I wanted to tell you off for your outdated societal views and nonexistent ethics, I resisted. But now, you've poked the dragon. The dragon that ate the bear that normal people poke when they fuck up." Spike informed her, her cold-hard demeanor having melted into a frightened puddle. Spike draped a wing over Lyra and Bon Bon, and Sombra offered Lyra his over-shirt as a symbolic gesture of support. Once Spike saw that Sombra was attending to the girls out of his peripheries he was ready to resume his tirade. "Lyra Heartstrings is not only my best friend, but my housemate. I love her like a sister. A weird sister that drinks and eats all the cheesy poofs, but a sister nonetheless. I can say without a shadow of a doubt I would die before letting you hurt her again. And, since you seem to think status matters more than your own flesh and blood, the three of you can all say goodbye to your titles as nobility. I'm a duke, I can do that." Spike hissed uncharacteristically. Both Lyra's father and brother tried to break through the crowd to escape, as if it would somehow save their ruined reputations. Lyra's mother saw them try to leave without her, and she realized for the first time how it felt to be abandoned, in some infinitesimally small fraction of how Lyra must have felt. Unfortunately the crowd was far too dense for them to get away. The more morally strong-rooted individuals in the audience wouldn't let them worm their way out of the situation after hearing their wrongs. "As of right this instant, the Heartstrings are relieved of their titles permanently. And if I get wind of any other nobles trying to use money and power to ruin people's lives and sweep their problems under the rug they'll get the same. I've been watching all you corrupt flank-kissers make everyone around you miserable my whole life, and all but a handful of you make me sick. The honest, hard-working folk do more for this country than any of you. It's time for things to change. Any noble who wants to remain a noble should act Noble!" Spike informed the Heartstrings and any nobles that were in earshot. There would be no complaining, nor appeals, or any form of debate. Spike's insides were roiling about, steam punctuating his every sentence. No one would dare defy or question him in that moment. Spike placed the now softly crying Mrs.Heartstrings back on the ballroom floor, and Spike quickly scooped up Lyra and Bon Bon, placing them on his back. Without another word Spike made for the side exit to the castle gardens. Sombra following closely behind. As Spike was about to open the door he heard a sound that was quite unexpected. Clapping, which in Spike's overheated state took a few seconds to link to applause. Scorpan, Uncle, Minos, Minerva, Twilight, Celestia, Luna, and even Gavin and his entourage had all begun clapping their various appendages. Then, the clapping grew louder and louder as the ponies that agreed with Spike joined in. There were members of the staff, orchestra, and those just lucky to be there all asking for an encore, or for him to preach more on the virtues of change. Not to mention reporters and cameramen that were close to losing their minds in excitement. Spike smiled, but he didn't bother to turn around or stay and bask in the admiration. Tonight wasn't about him, even if the papers would make the next week about him whether he liked it or not. As soon as the group was alone in the gardens Spike sat Bon Bon and Lyra down at a stone bench in front of the fountain. To their, and Sombra's surprise Spike sighed and let his tuxedo burn away. But the flames didn't stop there. They grew slowly, but they grew on and on until Spike had been swallowed up. The green inferno wasn't hot, but it was enormous and bright. Then, once it had cleared all there was was purple. Spike had finally let loose, revealing his accelerated growth's true extent. Spike was now a full six times larger than his compact self. Muscles rippled beneath scales, and Spike dominated the courtyard with his presence. While he wasn't yet to the scale of Phomac he was certainly years ahead of himself. It was as though Spike had been consumed by a much older dragon. It was an astounding experience, which was shattered as Spike let out an almost pleasured sigh. "Holy balls did I need to stretch. I felt like I was wearing clothes a million sizes too small. I lost my cool in there, and there was nothing to hit. Something had to give, and if I didn't leave then I was gonna grow in front of everyone." Spike groaned in relief. Sombra was more than a little ashamed to admit that the first thing he did was try and scale-up certain anatomical aspects of Spike's in his mind. The results of such calculations made Sombra light-headed and he quickly did his best to forget it. Which was quite difficult to do. "Dear, I fear we might need a bigger house. Or at least larger doors." Sombra joked awkwardly, trying to process. Spike merely shrugged with a stupid grin on his face and unfolded one of his wings. With the arm-like structure Spike proceeded to push against the doors leading back to the ballroom. Nobody was getting into the courtyard to ruin what came next. "Hey Lyra. Bonny met your... 'DNA donors'. Guess what that means you can do now." Spike chose to point out, unable to call the walking rectums in the Ballroom her family. Lyra couldn't figure out what Spike was trying to imply until he gave up and traced a flaming circle through the air with his finger. That set the over-lubricated gears of Lyra's mind turning, picking up speed quickly. Lyra reached a hoof into the front of her dress, fishing about for a moment before producing a small velvet box. Standing on her back legs, Lyra acted as a bipedal person would as she often did, leaning forward on one of her back hooves at an angle and opening the box. A spectacular feat of balance for someone who should have already succumbed to alcohol poisoning by all accounts. Inside the box was a gleaming golden tail-ring with a diamond set into it. On either side of the diamond Lyra's cutie mark and Bon Bon's cutie mark's had been engraved in the cylindrical band. While Lyra wasn't wealthy by any means metalwork was quite simple for her best friend, and he had been more than eager to help out. "Bon Bon, my beautiful creamy sweet, will you settle for marrying a mare with half a working liver and even fewer brain cells?" Lyra asked, in her own questionable way. Bon Bon put a hoof over her mouth and began to choke up, the emotions of the night being almost too much for her heart to handle. All she could do was jump forward and bowl her minty mare over, locking her into an inescapable hug. "Yes! Yes! Yes! But don't you ever put yourself through something like this ever again for my sake, you beautiful crazy idiot." Bon Bon cried happily. "Deal." Lyra sniffled. ... It took the new brides-to-be very little time to fall asleep against the warmth of Spike's side after the night they had just been through. That left only Spike and Sombra to stargaze as they debated how long to wait before trying to move the peaceful mares. Although as they were staying at the castle and Lyra and Bon Bon had a guest suite they decided the warm end-of-summer night was good for sleeping outside. Eventually the party inside died down and everypony went home. But in the quiet neither Spike nor Sombra could sleep. "Crazy night, huh?" Spike started after a time. "I would say it is in the top five most eventful we've had, yes." Sombra joked from his perch atop the star on Spike's chest. The large 'X' left by Arimaspi had scarred over now, and Sombra was thankful it would soon be rendered entirely invisible by a new set of scales. Looking at the scars reminded him he could have stopped Arimaspi from making them if he'd only been faster to recover. Spike thought about making them a permanent cosmetic feature of his compact size, but decided against it as he saw Sombra's guilty expression. "I was thinking... And... We're gonna live a really long time. I could definitely see us getting married too, soon even. But I think I'm gonna have to ask you to be the one to ask me though. I know that sounds kinda selfish and all... but I want you to be sure I'm who you want to spend forever with. "Forever is a really long time, and I'm gonna get crazy huge. Y'know? Plus, I'm you first... And I'd feel guilty if you decided too quickly. You might be a thousand years old, but your life is basically only just starting. If you wanted to wait awhile, you can wait awhile. I want to be sure you're gonna be happy putting up with me forever. Like, a literal forever." Spike told Sombra, sounding sincere. Sombra smiled, actually resisting the urge to laugh even. While Spike's concern's came from a place of caring they seemed laughably insignificant in Sombra's eyes. "I am constantly in awe at how intelligent and ridiculous you can sound at the same time. No one understands me like you, Spike. You understand me better than I understand myself on most occasions. Regardless, I accept your terms. Just so long as you swear that the answer will be yes when I ask you to answer me." Sombra smirked, using a softer version of his high-and-mighty-villain-voice. Spike lifted his neck to his chest and brought his arm on the side opposite the girls to his face. "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye. I Pinkie Promise." Spike swore, complete with a series of motions that only added to Sombra's confusion. "And what in the world was that about?" Sombra had to ask. Spike gave Sombra a quick peck on the cheek, surprisingly gentle and accurate given the even wider size gap currently between the two. "Just trust me on this. Nobody breaks a Pinkie Promise. Not ever."