Visiting Hours
Early morning in Canterlot is like morning anywhere else in Equestria. Ponies fall out of bed and stretch, greeting (or cursing) Celestia’s sun and preparing for another day. The light casting shadows throughout the city, becoming shorter and shorter as ponies open shops, head off for school or getting a jump on a nice relaxing day of self-reflection and some quiet time to themselves. And at Canterlot General Hospital, the night shift is punching out as the day shift punches in and begin their rounds in caring for the multitude of patients being treated. Morning also rings in the time for ponies to visit and see their loved ones to bring a little comfort and joy during their recovery.
“BLEGH! How can they taste even worse today?!” Spike groaned as he downed another clawfull of rainbow quartz.
“Perhaps you’re not quite used to them yet darling,” Rarity commented from her chair. “I’m sure after a few more days, you’ll be properly acclimated to them and not give those gems even a passing thought.”
“Rarity,” Spike said dryly. “It’s already been days. There’s no way in heck I’ll get used to these, they’re the worst gems I’ve ever tasted. Scratch that, the worst thing I’ve ever tasted.”
“Well you’re almost done. Just a few more to go.”
“Yeah, yeah.” Spike grabbed the last few gems and tossed them in his mouth. After another round of gagging he swallowed repulsive rocks and drank his fill of water. “Ugh, there, I’m done.” Spike pushed the empty basket towards Rarity. “Now leave.”
“Very well Spike,” Rarity collected herself and her basket and stood up. “I’ll see you again tomorrow.”
“I can’t wait…” Spike sneered.
“Good day Spike.”
Spike didn’t say anything further and Rarity decided not to overstay her welcome in pressing him for some kind of proper sendoff, but she couldn’t deny that she’d love to at least hear Spike say “goodbye” to her.
Though, I don’t even deserve that, Rarity thought.
So, without further ado, Rarity left and Spike was alone again. He blew a puff of smoke out of his nostrils towards the door and laid his head back down on his pillow.
“Took her long enough.”
11:00 AM
“Alright Spike, I just need to tie this last bandage off, aaaaaaaaand, done.” The nurse took a step back to briefly admire her work. “How does it feel? Are they too tight?”
“No, they’re fine, thank you.”
The nurse smiled and jotted down a few notes on a clipboard. “I’m sure the doctor will want to see this; it seems to me that you’re on your way to a full recovery. Seems those rainbow quartz’s are doing wonderous things for you.”
“Well I’d give most of the credit to the doctors. Of course, you’re terrific too.”
“No need to flatter me, Mr. Spike. I get enough of that from Dr. Hawkeye, but thank you. I’ll check up on you again in a few hours.”
As the nurse left to continue her rounds, Spike couldn’t help but think about what the nurse told him about the rainbow quartz were doing what Rarity said they would and with flying colors. The same gems Rarity brought to him every morning right as visiting hours began. The very same mare who stayed behind in Canterlot to help take care of him. Spike shook his head to drive the thought out.
“Who cares what Rarity’s doing, and who cares what Rarity did for me? I’m sure the doctors would’ve found out about those gems eventually. She’s up to something, I’m sure of it.”
As aggravated as Spike was, he found it hard to truly believe those words. Rarity, the Element of Generosity, sacrificing her time for Spike just so she could turn on him? Sure, he’d expect that from Queen Chrysalis or Cozy Glow, but Rarity? Spike shook his head again.
“She’s just as selfish as ever.”
Again, he found it hard to believe his own words.
11:30 AM
A knock drew Spike out of his thoughts. “Come in!”
The door swung open and two unicorns entered. One was a mare with a light grey coat and a white and purple mane and tail, the stallion by her side was blue with a darker blue mane and tail. The mare rushed to Spike’s side and wrapped her hooves around him.
“Good morning my little boy! How are you feeling? Any better?” Twilight Velvet asked before kissing Spike on the forehead.
Spike wrapped his good claw around Velvet and returned the hug. “I’m fine mom, getting better every day. Also, I’m not exactly ‘little’ anymore. I’m bigger than Shining Armor now.”
“You were the youngest in our house Spike,” Velvet tutted. “You’ll always be my little boy.”
“Yeah, I figured,” Spike chuckled.
“You’re looking good, Spike,” Night Light said as he trotted closer. “heck of a lot better than when we first saw you. Then again, I’ve seen trees in wood chippers that looked better than-oof!”
Night Light felt Velvet’s elbow make a sharp and precise blow to his ribs. He rubbed his now sore side. “Uh, never mind.”
“Yeah, the doctors here are great,” Spike said. “Wish I could say the same about the food.”
“Speaking of which,”- Velvet sifted through her saddlebag and pulled out a small white cardboard box.- “we brought you a little something from Pony Joe. Hope you have room for red velvet ruby doughnuts.”
Spike’s eyes sparkled like the Ponyville gem caves and his mouth began a wonderful impersonation of a water pump. “Are you kidding? I always have room for those, heck I have room for two dozen of them!”
“Maybe when you’re released, we’ll get you two dozen,” Velvet said in a motherly tone. “But for now, you get five.”
“Five’s fine too, thanks you guys”
“You’re welcome, Spike.”
“Let us know if there’s anything else you need, ok?” Night Light said.
Spike popped a ruby red glazed pastry in his mouth and hummed in delight. “I will, but I gotta tell you, I don’t think anything I ask for will top these doughnuts.”
3:00 PM
“Heya Spike!” Rainbow Dash’s raspy voice called out as the door flew open and entered with Scootaloo in tow. While Dash was sporting her trademark smirk of radiating coolness, Scootaloo on the other hoof, didn’t share in her role model’s enthusiasm and was staring at her hooves with her ears folded over.
Spike smiled and waved. “Hey Rainbow Dash, hey Scootaloo. What brings you to Canterlot?”
“Pfft, to see you big guy, duh! I just wanted to make sure you were doing ok. You’re lookin’ a heck of a lot better than the last time I saw ya, that’s for sure.”
“Well you know. Sleep, eat, and the occasional doctor visit helps. Can’t wait to get out of here. Now I know how you felt when you were stuck in the hospital with that busted wing.”
“Yeah, that was super dull. Until I found Daring Do, which is why”- Dash reached into her saddle bag and pulled out a book- “I thought it’d help you out too. This is one of my favorites, ‘Daring Do and the Curse of the Serpent King.’ You can borrow it as long as you want and when you’re done, I’ll bring you another one.”
Spike took the book and ran his claws over the cover. “Gee, thanks Dash. I’m sure this’ll be a lot of fun, and I have been hankering for something to read besides comics.”
“Heh, no problem Spike. I’m sure you’ll get a kick out of it.”
Spike turned his attention to the orange filly hiding behind Rainbow Dash. Scootaloo kept her eyes glued to the floor as she fidgeted with her hooves.
“You’re awfully quiet Scootaloo,” Spike said in concern. “Is everything alright?”
Scootaloo responded with a whimper.
“C’mon Scoot,” Dash said gently pushing her “sister” forward. “Isn’t there something you wanted to say to Spike?”
Scootaloo looked up with trembling lips. “I’m… I’m” – she took a deep breath – “I’m sorry Spike! I’m really, really sorry! When Sweetie Belle told me and Apple Bloom what happened, I couldn’t stop thinking that it was because of us you got hurt. I knew trying to be matchmakers again was a bad idea and I went with it anyways. I’m so sorry Spike, can you ever forgive me?”
Spike chuckled, “Of course I do Scootaloo. I never blamed you guys for any of this. But I appreciate you apologizing anyway.”
Rainbow Dash laughed and ruffled Scootaloo’s mane. “See? I told you squirt, you got nothing to worry about. Spike’s a great guy, he wouldn’t hold a grudge.”
Spike rubbed the back of his head. “Y-yeah, that’s me. A real forgiving kind of guy.”
7:00 PM
“There you go Spike,” said the nurse as she finished tying off the last bandage. “Nice, clean bandages. Looks like you’re healing very well, I’ll be sure to let the doctor know as soon as I can. Seems like every time I see you; you’re getting better and better.”
“Well I’m feeling better. Nowhere near as sore as I was before and my headache’s gone. How much longer do you think I’ll be here?”
“Unfortunately, I don’t know. You’ll have to take that up with Dr. Hawkeye.”
“I felt my ears burning,” Dr. Hawkeye said as he sauntered into the room with a look of smug confidence. “a lovely mare must’ve said my name. Any idea who that could’ve been?”
The nurse rolled her eyes. “Good evening doctor, I think you’d like to know that Spike is healing nicely.” The nurse gave Hawkeye Spike’s chart.
“Well, well, well so he is. Those gems are quite the miracle cure.”
“I don’t know about that,” Spike cut in. “I think you guys deserve most of the credit.”
“You’re too kind, but you’d be far worse for wear if it wasn’t for that book and your friend. You really ought to thank her.”
“I guess…” Spike said in the same sulky tone one would have when they had to do chores.
“Heck, it’s thanks to that book that you’ll be out of here sooner than I thought. It’s giving me great information for when you start physical therapy.”
“So how much longer do you think I’ll be here doc? Another week? Maybe two?”
“Sorry pal, but you’ll be here for at least a month.”
Spike’s jaw fell through his bed and hit the floor. “A month!? But that’s so long! I’ve already been cooped up in this place for weeks and I have to deal with another month?!”
Hawkeye shrugged. “Hate to say it, but that’s the way it is. You were banged up pretty bad and you’ve only just recently started showing signs of recovery. But think of it this way, you’d be here a heck of a lot longer and even worse shape if it wasn’t for those rainbow quartzes. So being here for more than a month is nothing short of a miracle.”
Spike sighed, “Sorry doc. Guess I should just be grateful I’m getting out at all. I just miss being able to go outside and walk around, you know?”
“Eh, no need to apologize, if it’s any consolation, you’re handling this better than most ponies would. Now, I think I’ve got all the information I need, so I’d get some sleep if I were you.”
“Thanks again doc, see you tomorrow.”
Doctor Hawkeye nodded. “See you tomorrow.”
Both Hawkeye and the nurse left after turning off the lights, leaving Spike alone in the dark yet again. He adjusted his pillow and rested his head. A month. And entire flippin’ month in this hospital. But it could’ve been worse, much worse. And as much as Spike hated to admit it, it was thanks to Rarity for setting him on the road to recovery that he’d be leaving the hospital at all. If it wasn’t for her, he might have… well, something really bad would’ve happened. Spike grunted as he if he was trying to shoo that truth away. Tomorrow Rarity would be back with more gems and the sooner he goes to sleep, the sooner he’d be over and done with her visit.
8:00 AM
A soft knock came from Spike’s door, the same knock he’s heard at the same exact time for over week. He rolled his eyes when he realized that it could only be one pony.
“Yeah?” Spike called out.
Rarity trotted in with her usual smile and her usual basket filled with her usual disgusting gems. “Good morning Spike, how are you feeling today?”
“Better, I guess.”
“Fabulous, darling! You’re making progress every day; why I haven’t a shadow of a doubt you’ll be back on your claws in no time!”
“Just give me the gems already,” Spike said in a sharp tone.
Rarity flinched, placed the basket by Spike’s bed and took her usual seat. “Oh, yes of course… here you are Spike. Let’s hope they don’t taste quite so awful today,” she said, hoping the tone and inflection of her last sentence would help ease some of the tension radiating off the dragon.
“I doubt it.”
Spike mentally prepared himself for another round of self-torture. After a few more moments of psyching himself up, he popped a clawfull of gems in his maw and as expected, they still tasted like rotten lemons and wallpaper paste that was left in a damp, musty cave. Spike swallowed and took panting breaths.
“Sweet Celestia! I’ll be glad when this is over, I never want to eat or see these gems ever again!”
“Well if they are as bad as you say they are, I completely understand. But look at the positives darling, you only have a few more gems to go.”
“Don’t remind me.”
Spike scooped up another helping of rainbow-colored misery and chewed them as fast as he could to end this agony as soon as possible and down all the water in the usual pitcher.
“Done,” Spike said after catching his breath. “now go away.” He tossed the basket at Rarity and she caught it in her magic.
“Very well, I’ll see you again tomorrow. Good day Spike.”
Spike turned his head away. “Whatever… just leave.”
Rarity’s ears flattened and her eyes shifted to the floor. There was an air of gloom about her as she left without saying another word. Spike glared at the door for a brief moment and wondered if maybe, he was a bit harsh. But he tossed that idea into his mental bin and decided to get some extra sleep. The sooner he stops thinking about Rarity, the better.
11:00 AM
“I’m sorry, did that hurt?” Spike’s nurse asked worriedly.
“A little,” replied the dragon. “But my wing doesn’t hurt as much as it did before. So that’s something good, right?”
“Of course, it is,” the nurse said as she finished tying off the bandages on Spike’s injured wing, caring not to touch the cast at the base. “and I wouldn’t be surprised if your next blood test comes back with a smaller white cell count.”
“And that’s good? I thought I wanted white blood cells.”
“Yes, but if the number goes down, then that means you won’t be dealing with an infection. Though at this point, I highly doubt you’ll get one.”
Spike sighed, “Yeah, I’m glad I don’t have to deal with that. Would’ve kept me here longer and to be honest, I’m getting pretty darned sick of this place. No offense.”
The nurse giggled, “None taken. I understand your frustration. Now, I’ll be back later with your lunch. Can I get you anything else in the meantime?”
Spike pondered for a moment. “Um, another pitcher of water? I’m getting pretty thirsty.”
“Coming right up, I’ll get it as soon as I drop off your latest blood sample. Shouldn’t take too long.”
“Thanks a bunch.”
Noon.
All was quiet in the hallowed halls of the temple, but Daring Do knew better than to stop. Silence was unnerving. She glanced around the corner, grateful that the moon’s silver rays couldn’t reach her. The stone path before her was worn and smooth. “No pressure plates or tripwires that I can see,” she said softly.
Daring Do’s wing brushed against her saddle bag and ran the tips over the emerald idol of the first emperor of the cursed kingdom of Serpentia. An artifact of great historical importance and a rarity like no other. Which is why Daring Do couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling building up in her gut. Surely Caballeron, would’ve been hot on her trail by now, but he was nowhere to be seen. Daring Do continued her way through the labyrinth.
“I swear I came this way. Why does it look so unfamiliar?”
Daring Do’s ear twitched at the rustle of something being dragged. That sound multiplied and was joined with the sound of hissing and rattling. Soon the entire temple was vibrating in a cacophony of slithering serpentine sounds. Daring Do’s eyes darted around the hall, her pulse raced when she couldn’t see even a sliver of who or what was around her. Then, a venomous voice cut through the chorus.
“You dare to tressspasss and ssssteal our sssacred treasure! You shall be punished harshly for your crime! Come ssssun rissse your body will turn to sssstone! Ssssuch is the fate of all those foolish to dessssecrate our domain!”
Daring Do’s felt a stiffness in her feathers and horror seized her heart at the sight of her wings slowly turning granite gray. She fought back against the panic and-
There was a knock and Spike placed a marker on the page he was reading. “Come in!” he called out.
The pony visiting him was somepony very special indeed and it was a pony he’s been wanting to see for quite some time. Twilight wasted no time in clearing the distance between herself and her little brother. She wrapped her hooves around Spike and nuzzled him.
“Spike! Oh, Spike, I’ve missed you so much!” Twilight’s voice was quavering relief.
Spike returned the nuzzle and hug. “I’ve missed you too Twilight. I can’t tell you how good it is to see you. This is a great surprise.”
”I’m so sorry I didn’t come sooner; I’ve just had so much to do at the school that I needed to take care of.”
“No need to apologize Twi, I understand.”
“Oh, there you are Twilight,” Flash Sentry trotted in, his armor making a light clanging sound as he walked. “Good thing I ran into that nurse or I might never have caught up to you.”
“Twilight rubbed the back of her neck and smiled sheepishly. “Sorry Flash, I was just so eager to see Spike.”
“I get it, I get it,” Flash chuckled. “But it does make my job of guarding you a bit more difficult.” Flash saluted Spike. “Good afternoon Spike, how are you holding up?”
“I’m fine, but I told you already that you really don’t have to salute me. A simple wave is fine.”
“Eh, sorry, force of habit. Comes with the job.”
“Oh wow!” Twilight gasped. “Spike you look great! A lot better than the last time I saw you. At this rate you’ll be back home in no time.”
If I had a bit for every time, I heard that, Spike thought. “Well don’t get too excited Twilight. I still have to go through physical therapy and who knows how long that’ll take.”
“But you’re making progress and that’s what matters. I can’t tell you how worried I was.”
“Didn’t Sweetie Belle give you my message?”
Twilight rolled her eyes. “Yes, and afterwards I gave her a very stern lecture on why eavesdropping is wrong. But after that, I thanked her for coming to see you and telling me you were ok. That still doesn’t mean I wasn’t going to stop worrying over you, I was just worrying a little less.”
“I can vouch for that,” Flash added. “She's been a wreck for a while now. The biggest turn around was when she discovered a gap in her ‘infallible schedule’ to come and see you.”
Twilight giggled, “You’re not wrong.”
Spike laughed, “Wait, the most organized pony in all of Equestria messed up her own schedule? Are you sure you’re Twilight Sparkle?”
“Ha, ha, very funny,” Twilight said sarcastically. “I was under a ton of stress and it just happened alright? Nopony’s perfect.”
Spike smiled. “Well, I’m really glad you messed up this time.”
Twilight blinked a few times, but she couldn’t stop the stray tears rolling down her cheeks. The normally punctual and overly systematized pony couldn’t help but be overjoyed by one of the happiest accidents she’s ever made. She sniffled and gently dapped her eyes before giving Spike another hug.
“Me too.”
3:00 PM
Spike decided to set aside his borrowed Daring Do and re-read some comics. Not that he had anything against Dash’s prized book, but he was going to be in the hospital for a while, might as well make the story last. Spike read his comics a thousand times even before he was admitted so they weren’t anything new, but Spike always found a certain kind of unique calm that only comes when he’s reading those special issues. He opened the small cardboard box and closed his eyes, deciding to pick at random to make things a bit more interesting. His claws nimbly passed over issue after issue until something inside of him said to pull out this one.
Spike removed the comic with the same flourish Trixie uses to pull a rabbit out of her hat and was eager to see what comic fate decreed he read. His excited eyes soon glazed over as he took note of the cover. It was an issue of Power Ponies, which normally would have put Spike in a fantastic mood, but this issue’s story is all about Hum Drum and Radiance, it even has the special cover featuring the two heroes triumphantly standing triumphant in the rising sun, only available at one particular comic book store which Spike spent a long time tracking down. It was Spike’s favorite issue. Every time he read it, he thought back to when he and his friends were sucked into that enchanted comic; though he thought about this every time he read Power Ponies.
But this one was special, because the story in this issue shows how well Hum Drum and Radiance work together. Every time he read it, he just pictured himself and Rarity, fighting alongside each other as they thwarted the evil Maneiac’s plan to foalnap their friends and drain them of their powers. It was one of Spike’s biggest fantasies, for Rarity to see him as a hero and maybe even more than that. Stupid wishes of a stupid dragon. Spike rationalized. He was more then set to just slide this issue back in the box and try picking another. But he didn’t. He felt like reading it. Maybe now he’ll just see Hum Drum and Radiance, two characters within the books’ pages, instead, he was met with the familiar illusion of seeing himself and Rarity.
Spike was relieved when he heard a knock on his door. Thank Celestia, a distraction. He placed his comic back in its plastic sleeve and slipped it back into the white box. “Come in!” he called out.
“Well howdy there Spike! How ya doing pardner?” Applejack greeted in her chipper country drawl. Following close behind was the enthusiastic Autumn Blaze and a morose Apple Bloom, who could barely summon the strength to look up from the floor.
Oh boy, Spike mentally sighed. I have a pretty good idea what’s bringing her down. “Eh, same ol’, same ol’, Applejack. Still in the hospital and stuff.”
Applejack chuckled, “Well yer lookin’ a heck of a lot better since last time Ah came ‘round these parts. Ah reckon ye’ll be back in Ponyville quicker than ya can say ‘apple turnover.’”
“Speaking of apples!” Autumn chimed as she levitated a large bushel to Spike. “I heard ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away,’ so I thought if you got a whole bunch of apples, you’d feel a lot better, sooner!”
She wasn’t kidding. The bushel Autumn Blaze gave to Spike was full to the brim with genuine Sweet Apple Acres apples. A myriad of shiny, glossy reds, greens, yellows as well as some pinks were mixed up in the bountiful basket. The fresh, delightful smell of the orchard wafted up and Spike couldn’t help but be reminded of his home back in Ponyville where this sweet, familiar smell was everywhere, from Sugarcube Corner, to the market and the kitchen at the Castle of Friendship. It warmed Spike’s heart and made him miss home even more.
“Wow, there’s so many. Thanks a lot, I’m feeling better already, knowing I’ll have something to eat besides hospital food. Those cooks have clearly never heard of salt.”
Applejack threw a hoof around her chatty kirin friend. “Hehehe, yeah Autumn was right excited ‘bout gettin’ ya these apples. Harvested ‘em all this mornin’ just before comin’ ‘ere.”
Spike wasted no time in plucking a golden delicious and taking a bite, savoring the sweet snow-white flesh dancing on his tongue and caring not to let any of the juice spill out of his mouth. Spike hummed in delight, “Oooooh yeah, this is the best. I can’t tell you how much I’ve missed this.”
“Mighty kind of ye Spike. Eat as much as ye want, there’s plenty.”
Spike took another satisfying bite, an audible crackle sounded as he bit through the skin as if to remind him of the freshness and the quality that the Apple family take such pride in. Spike swallowed and caught the eyes of the littlest pony in the room.
“Something on your mind Apple Bloom?” Spike asked in concern.
“Uh, um… well…” she squeaked.
“Go on, sugarcube,” Applejack said sternly. “Tell ‘im”
“I… I…”
Spike raised his claw to silence the filly and gave her a smile. “Apple Bloom, before you say anything, I just want you to know that Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were here before and said they were sorry about the whole playing matchmaker thing and I just want you to know, that I don’t blame you or them for any of this.”
Apple Bloom’s mouth hung open for a moment before an enormous weight was pulled off her withers. “Really? Well, Ah am really sorry fer what Ah’ve done.”
“I know you are,-“ Spike patted her head, careful not to displace her signature ribbon. “- and I appreciate it, but you have nothing to be sorry for.”
“That’s awful nice of ya Spike,” Apple Bloom said with her cheeriness restored. “When you get back to Ponyville, we’ll treat ya to the biggest apple buffet ya ever did see!”
“Darn tootin’,” Applejack said. “Ah’ll make sure it’ll be the best shindig since the last Apple family reunion.”
Autumn clapped her hooves. “Ooh, great idea! I’ve been practicing with those apple recipes AJ! I’ll whip up some spiced cider that’ll make you prude- proud, proud.” She corrected.
If Spike had a mane, he’d be hiding behind it in embarrassment. He wasn’t used to ponies making such a big deal out of him before.
“Geez, you don’t have to do all of that for me,” he said shyly. “I’m just in the hospital, you’re acting like you just smeared mud on Princess Celestia’s coat and need to get on her good side.”
“Ah aint takin’ no fer an answer Spike,” Applejack said with a smirk and a wink. “so ye best have one heck of an appetite when ye git released.”
Spike chuckled, “Well, if you insist, how can I refuse?”
“That’s what Ah like to ‘ear!”
7:00 PM
“Then Applejack said that there’s a big rodeo in Appleloosa coming up,” Spike regaled as the nurse continued dressing Spike’s wounds. “and she’s planning on walking away with ‘more blue ribbons than a prize winnin’ hog,’ or something like that.”
“Sounds exciting,” the nurse commented as she finished rubbing balm into Spike’s back. “it’s been ages since I’ve been to a real deal Appleloosa rodeo.”
“You’ve been to the rodeo before?”
“You haven’t?” she asked with a cocked eyebrow.
Spike shrugged. “Can’t say that I have.”
“Oh, they’re wonderful!’ the nurse exclaimed as she wiped her hooves clean and grabbed a roll of gauze. “My roommate from med school was from Appleloosa. And one day she says, ‘let’s go see the rodeo in my hometown!” The nurse carefully began wrapping the gauze where she applied the balm, taking extra care not to disturb his wing. “Naturally, I had no idea what to expect. I was just a filly from Manehattan, the only way I’d ever see a rodeo was if it was a setting in a stage play.” With Spike’s back treated and wrapped, she began working on Spike’s arm and claw. She removed the bandages and clean her hooves before adding another dollop of medicated balm.
“Anyway, since we were on Spring break, I figured, what the hay, sounds like it could be a blast. And if anything, it’d feel good to get out of the library and stretch my legs in a place with lots of fresh air.” The nurse began to massage the balm into the wound. Spike couldn’t help but notice that the balm smelled like something Zecora would make. It had hints of an earthy scent, but still had an underlying antiseptic smell that comes standard in every hospital.
“So, we made the arrangements and the next thing I knew, I was on my way to Appleloosa. It was such a long trip, at a certain point I was wondering if by the time we got there, the rodeo would be over. But when we got there, I was surprised at how lively the town was. Food stands, carnival games and there was a certain excitement in the air, everypony was on pins and needles waiting for the rodeo to start.” The nurse finished with massaging Spike’s arm and claw with the balm and cleaned off her hooves. “But the one thing I could’ve done without was the heat. Sweet Celestia was it hot! At least it was a dry heat, but I digress.
"When we took our seats, I’ll never forget it, the crowd erupted like a thunderstorm into a frenzy of cheers and whistles as the contestants showed off their amazing skills. My personal favorite was Calamity Mane, now there was a mare who knew a thing or two about a lasso. I also got to see Bright Mac leave everypony in the dust at the haybale stacking contest.” The nurse wrapped the remaining gauze around Spike’s arm and claw. “Oh dear, I seemed to have gotten carried away there, didn’t I?”
Spike smiled. “It’s ok. I really enjoyed hearing about the rodeo. Makes me want to go there myself.”
“I hope you do.” The nurse wrote some notes down on a clipboard and hung the chart at the end of Spike’s bed. “Everything seems in order here. Bet you’re happy to have that cast off your arm.”
“Heck yeah, I can finally scratch it again.”
“As long as you’re careful not to disturb your injury, you can scratch as much as you like. At the rate you’re going, I’d say you’d be able to walk around in just a few more days.”
Spike’s eyes lit up and he dropped his jaw in awe. “Really? Oh, wow! That’s great news! I can’t wait to actually get out of bed!”
The nurse held up a hoof to suppress a giggle. “I’m sure you are. Goodnight Spike, I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Goodnight, and thanks for the story.”
8:00 AM
Spike awoke to the sound of knocking on his door. He rubbed the remains of eye crust away and yawned, then sulked, as it was time for Rarity to bring him his daily dose of mineral misery. “I guess she really has nothing better to do with her time,” Spike muttered. He turned to the door and called out, “Come in!”
Rarity trotted in, brandishing a wide, cheerful smile and a basket in her aura. “Good morning Spike! How are you feeling today, darling?”
Spike hadn’t the foggiest idea how somepony can be so… jovial this early in the morning. Mornings were never really his thing, he was more of a “noonish” sort of dragon, so Rarity’s attitude was nothing short of baffling, on top of Spike’s general annoyance towards her, whether it was for her insufferable energy this early in the morning, or because Rarity appeared in his room was debatable.
“Fine,” Spike muttered.
“That’s marvelous! With any luck you’ll be out of this room and back In Ponyville in no time flat.”
“It’ll be at least another month, so yeah, I don’t think I’ll be out of here, ‘in no time flat.’ Let’s just get this over with,” Spike said in a tired exasperation that comes from day in and day out of habitual pestering.
Rarity’s face fell as she took her seat and gave her basket to Spike. “Right. Here you go darling.”
Spike took his first clawfull of rainbow quartz and scarfed it down. Still tasted like gutter sludge, wood varnish and beetles, but at least he was getting better at eating them quickly. The trick was to chew as fast as possible without the crushed gems touching his tongue. When the basket was low enough, he turned it upside down and dumped the remaining stones into his mouth. When Spike was finished, he reached for his bushel of apples and tossed a sweet pink and red treat into his maw to try and cleanse his pallet and passed the basket back at Rarity.
Spike swallowed his apple and grumbled, “There. Now we’re done here.”
“Oh my, did Applejack pay you a visit yesterday?” Rarity asked, seemingly eager to start up a conversation.
Spike was instantly regretting his choice of eating Applejack’s gift. The last thing he wanted was for Rarity to stick around any longer than what was necessary. He didn’t want to hear her voice, he didn’t want her near him and most importantly, he didn’t want her to try and open his heart. He swore to keep it shut tight under lock and key and away from her. To never give Rarity another chance of hurting him again.
“How is she doing darling?” Rarity continued. “I’m ashamed to admit I haven’t really been keeping touch with the girls for quite some time now. Except Fluttershy for updates on my precious Opal-Wopal, of course. Did she mention anything about any current evets from Ponyville? I’ve been ‘out of the loop,’ so to speak, for what feels like-“
“I SAID WE’RE DONE!” Spike shouted with enough force for Rarity to flinch and nearly fall out of her chair. Her eyes went wide from the shock and her lips began to tremble. Her jaw moved slowly up and down, trying to get her words out like a musical lead with stage fright. Rarity slowly got up from her chair and with heavy hooves, dragged herself to the door. At that moment, Spike felt a tightness in his chest and he almost caught himself calling out to the mare to… apologize? Spike couldn’t believe he was seriously considering trying to apologize to Rarity of all ponies. The same mare who treated him like a servant and abandoned him. The same pony who stayed behind in Canterlot to make sure he was taken care of and who took time out of every morning to see him. Spike shoved this out of his mind, but his heartache still remained.
“Oof, remind me not to get on your bad side,” said Dr. Hawkeye as he trotted up to Spike’s bed. He was wearing a maroon bathrobe and was in desperate need for a comb as his mane was totally disheveled, complete with heavy bags under his eyes to complete the look.
“Is it normal for doctors to looks so… scruffy? And in a bathrobe?” Spike asked.
Hawkeye yawned loudly, not bothering to place a hoof over his mouth and inspected Spike’s chart. “It is if they spend the majority of the night on cases and decide to sleep in the office. Besides, how can my patients feel comfortable and relaxed when their doctor isn’t? Speaking of relaxing, what’s with all the hot blood this morning? Pretty sure I didn’t diagnose you with a bad case of hostility.”
“Rarity was just here,” Spike grumbled.
“Well that much I knew. What I’m curious about is why she just walked out of here looking like a ghost?”
“She wanted to talk and I told her to leave.”
Hawkeye cocked a brow. “Told?”
“Yeah… well, no. More like yelled, actually.”
“I was wondering why the hallway was shaking.”
“Every day. Every single gosh darn, flippin’ day. She comes in, gives me those gross gems and tries to talk to me. I wish she’d just leave me alone.”
“Oh boy do you have it rough,” Hawkeye said as he rolled his eyes. “A pretty mare visiting you every day? Feeding you and helping us take care of you? And she dares to want to talk with you? Wow, I didn’t think your situation could get any worse, but here we are.”
Spike’s eyes narrowed on the sardonic doctor. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
“What I mean is, I think you’re pretty darn lucky to have her help. And even luckier that she wants to spend time with you.”
Spike glowered. “You don’t get it doc! You have no idea what she’s done to me! How awful she was to me!”
“So, you want to hurt her right back? Is that it?”
Spike recoiled. His mind reeling to find some kind of retort, some kind of justification for his actions. But they evaporated into the ether and left Spike in what could only be called a guilty fugue state.
Hawkeye ran his feathers through his mane and sighed, “Look, you’re right,” his tone wasn’t scolding as much as it was sympathetic. “I don’t know. I haven’t the slightest clue what went on between you two, for all I know she could be plotting the downfall of Equestria as we speak. But I’ll tell you something I do know and what I know is that that little lady has been coming to see you every single day for a week and a half straight. Bringing you those gems that saved your neck and put her entire life on hold to make sure you’re being taken care of. I don’t know about you, but frankly, I’ve never seen anypony so generous in my life. I’m not saying you need to forgive her, heck, I’m not even saying you have to like her. But I think that the least you can do is talk to her and not chase her away the first chance you get. If anything, talking with her might just get you some kind of closure because you may think acting this way towards her will make you feel better, but you’ll just regret it in the long run.”
Dr. Hawkeye returned the chart to the foot of Spike’s bed. “However,” he said retaining his modicum of professionalism. “If you really don’t want to see her again, I can talk to Ms. Rarity and ask her to leave the gems with me and you won’t have to see her ever again.” Having said his piece, Hawkeye turned to leave.
Spike was torn. Never having to see Rarity anymore would certainly be a relief. No more visits meant no more small talk, no more early feedings of those Celestia forsaken gems. And no more Rarity. That’s what he wanted, right? But if that’s really what he wanted, then why did his heart hurt so much? Why did the notion of not seeing Rarity’s smile again fill him with grief? Spike didn’t want to accept that he’d actually miss her. As tightly shut as Spike’s heart has become, Rarity still managed to get in. Or perhaps, she was always in there and he didn’t want to admit it.
“Doc!” Spike called out as Hawkeye reached the door. “Wait…”
8:00 AM
Rarity’s next visit was a somber one. After entering, she didn’t have her smile that matched Celestia’s sun in brightness. She didn’t speak a word, no greeting, no comment on his health. Nothing. Rarity slumped into her usual seat and floated the basket over to Spike.
“Here…” she said in a quiet voice. She couldn’t bring herself to look at Spike, as if doing so would be a heinous crime that’d get her sent to the moon. She brought her hoof and nervously held her opposite foreleg and slowly rubbed it.
Spike felt his chest constrict as ice rimmed his heart as he took in the sad mare before him. He broke Rarity. Not to long ago, Spike wanted Rarity to hurt. To make her feel even a fraction of a fraction of the pain he felt because of her when she pushed him away. And he finally did it, he made her feel pain, but he didn’t feel accomplished, or satisfied like he thought he would. He felt terrible. Terrible and guilty.
Spike grabbed his first clawfull of gems and tossed them into his maw. They still tasted like spoiled milk, mud and moldy cupcakes, but he didn’t complain. He kept his tongue in check, as he continued to tell himself to be civil and hold his sarcasm and snide comments back. Maybe Dr. Hawkeye was right. After all the time she’d set aside for him, the least he could do was just listen and not scare her away.
Spike dusted off his last gem and passed the basket back to Rarity. She held it aloft in her magic. “I’ll see you tomorrow,” she said, barely above a whisper. Rarity stood and began her downtrodden trot for the door.
“Rarity, wait…”
Rarity’s ears perked up and looked over her shoulder, a small gleam in the corner of her eye. Spike took a deep breath and collected his thoughts; he couldn’t figure out why talking to Rarity was so difficult for him right now. Maybe because you were a total jerk and scared her to near death, Spike reprimanded himself. He remembered a time not too long ago where he’d lose his voice because he was just too shy to say anything to Rarity because his heart kept getting in the way. Recently, Spike’s found it easier to talk to her, but he never had anything nice to say. It was just rude comments and ordering her to leave. Now when he actually wants to say something kind or meaningful, he had trouble saying, well, anything. He’d have to ask Dr. Hawkeye if ‘irony’ is terminal.
Spike started slowly, “I’m… I’m sorry. I’m sorry for yelling at you yesterday. You were just trying to be friendly and I got mad for no reason and I took it out on you.”
Rarity turned around. Her gaze fell onto his emerald green eyes. Those vibrant and… soft emerald pools. These eyes are the eyes of a long-lost friend. A version of Spike that Rarity thought she’d never see again.
“Oh, no need to apologize Spike. I really shouldn’t have-“
“No Rarity,” Spike cut in, gently of course. “There’s no excuse for how I acted yesterday. I was wrong and I’m sorry.”
Rarity smiled. “Well… I accept your apology.”
“Here,-“ Spike reached for the bushel by his bedside and pulled out a shiny yellow apple. “- I heard these are your favorite. It’s the last one. I want you to have it.”
Rarity waved her hoof. “Darling, please, I couldn’t. If it’s your last one, then you should have it.”
“Please take it, Rarity. Just think of it as my token of apology. You really deserve it more than I do.”
Rarity’s heart felt like warm coco after a stroll through the snow. She missed this feeling, this cozy feeling that seems to only spring forth when Spike is with her. She realized now, how much she took that warmth for granted.
“Thank you Spike.” Rarity levitated the apple over to her hooves and held it like it was a treasured keepsake. The skin was well polished and smelled just delightful.
“And one more thing. Thanks… for the gems. And for checking up on me every day. It means a lot…”
Rarity swelled, like a gust blowing petals on the wind, or a favorite song playing at just the right volume. An ineffable joy spread through her body and she couldn’t hide it as she smiled sweetly.
“You’re very welcome, darling.”
Noon.
“Come in!” Spike called out. The door opened with a soft click and in trotted Rarity, who was certainly the last pony he was expecting today.
Rarity’s voice was soft and warm, “Good afternoon Spike.”
“Rarity? What are you doing back here so soon?” Spike asked devoid of sarcasm.
“Oh, I’m terribly sorry. Am I intruding?”
“No, no you’re not, but I already ate my rainbow quartz. So… I’m just wondering why you’re here again.”
Rarity trotted closer and lifted one of the embroidered flaps of her saddle bag. Her horn lit up and a flat brown paper bag floated out. And out of the bag came a comic book, it was sealed up in the protective sleeve that all of his comics come in. Spike raised his brow.
“Consider this my token of appreciation for the delectable apple, dear. I’m told this is the latest issue and I was curious if you’d like something new to read?”
There was a time, not too long ago, where Spike would’ve been all a flutter in this particular circumstance. Reading comics with Rarity by his side. Of course, in his fantasy Spike wasn’t in the hospital and Rarity wasn’t holding the comic or turning the pages for him (though Spike Insisted that he was perfectly capable of turning the pages). Every so often Spike would mumble “next” and Rarity would go to the next page. Out of the corner of his eye, Spike noticed that Rarity was focusing on the panels, with the subtle and quick eye movements that led Spike to believe she was reading alongside him. She couldn’t be reading this, Spike thought. Could she? No way. Comics are probably too beneath somepony like her. Spike mentally pushed that thought out of his head. After all, Rarity was trying to make an effort, he should too.
“You know what I don’t understand?” Rarity said.
Spike was jarred out of his musings. “What?”
“This Astro Colt character. I mean, he seems rather indestructible, has the strength of 100,000 stallions, can fly even though he isn’t a Pegasus and can fire magic blasts from his hooves without a horn. I just can’t fathom as to why a protagonist would be so powerful. Doesn’t seem like any villain can best him.”
Spike was about to say something quite off-color, but stopped. Rarity was just asking a question; she wasn’t causing any harm and if Spike didn’t know any better, he could swear there was genuine curiosity in her voice. Spike took a deep breath and mumbled something under his breath.
“What was that darling?”
Spike turned his full attention to Rarity. “It’s because… he’s an allegory.”
Rarity tilted her head. She most certainly wasn’t expecting that as an answer. “An allegory? For what, may I ask?”
Spike started slowly, “He… represents the good that can come from magic. The creator, Tezucolt, saw all the damage and pain creatures like Queen Chrysalis and Tirek caused and wanted to create a hero that used his abilities for the greater good. Not that magic is ‘evil’ per se, but the creator wanted to show how much the good outweighed the bad. Astro is made up of all the strengths and talents of the three pony tribes and uses his powers to protect the world from the villains who want to abuse magic to hurt others, or monsters that threaten the lives of ponies, like hydras and stuff,” Spike finished with passion. Passion? He didn’t realize he even had a shred of that left in him.
“Oh my,” Rarity said in amazement. “I had no idea something so, well, comedic as this could be so serious and… deep.”
“Well,” Spike chuckled. “the creator does call himself a ‘gag mangaka,’ so he likes to throw something silly into his work from time to time. But for the most part, all of his work has some kind of message or, or philosophy based on something he admires. Like Ribbon Knight, the story of a princess who was born with two hearts.”
“Two hearts?” Rarity looked slightly perturbed at the thought of some poor pony with such a defect as that.
“Well, not two actual hearts, more like souls. She has the tender, kind heart of a mare and the strong, courageous heart of a stallion. I know that may sound a little dated, but Tezucolt wrote this out of admiration for the Trotarazuka Revue; an all-female theatre troupe in Neighpon. He was fascinated at how they could seamlessly transition from a feminine role into a masculine role. Heh, I heard that he actually had a chance to interview them and he was never so nervous in his life,” Spike suddenly bit his lip, turned his head away and became very quiet.
“Spike? What’s wrong?” Rarity asked concerned.
Spike clenched his claw. “I… uh, didn’t mean to bore you. I just get excited when I… um, talk about the creator. I-I-I just really, really admire him and w-well-“
A gentle touch calmed Spike’s nerves and relaxed his claw. Rarity’s hoof rested on Spike’s slackened claw. Rarity seemed eager and overjoyed.
“You’re not boring me darling,” Rarity said gaily. “quite the opposite in fact. Can you tell me more? I’d very much like to hear about his other works.”
Spike blinked. And blinked a few more times, before a small warmth spread through his chest and the corners of his mouth began to tug. “Well… I guess if you really want to…”
The rest of the afternoon was filled with tales of princesses battling evil witches, jungle emperors and a bird that grants ever-lasting life. Spike went over even the most minute of details of how the creator drew his character’s eyes and with every second that went by, Rarity saw something in Spike she thought she’d never see again. Joy. The more Spike spoke, the more it seemed the fire in his heart was being stoked and fanned. Rarity listened to every word Spike said, not missing a single facet or fact. Rarity felt a tingling in her legs and butterflies in her belly.
Not once did she take her eyes off of Spike.
Nothing else matters, thought Rarity dreamily.
Been a while hasn't it? Sorry for the HUGE delay but , much like everyone else, the pandemic got me feelin' a certain way. Here I foolishly thought I'd have ALL the time in the world to focus on my art and writing, little did I know that I'd lose motivation to do pretty much anything creative. Isolation does crazy things to you, I swear. But I hope this chapter in some small way makes up for it.
This one's a bit more "slice of life" than the previous chapters, but I really felt like this chapter was necessary for the plot progression, showing the daily life of what Spike goes through and the ponies that visit him. Doesn't hurt to also have Spike and Rarity finally making strides together. It won't be easy, but it's a work in progress for the both of them.
By the way, it took me FOREVER to come up with a pun name for Osamu Tezuka, luckily my proofreader is also my think tank. I have to admit, I'm starting to really groove on using Astro Colt as a recurring "character," since Tezuka's works are an inspiration and Tezuka himself is my biggest idol. Now obviously Astro Boy is much, much more than just an allegory to the good that science, specifically nuclear energy, can do for humanity, but I didn't want to indulge more of my Tezuka knowledge flex on to you, though much like Spike, I can get very excited about talking about Tezuka's work.
On a side note, I want to thank Misty Dolphin for doing the unenviable task of editing my previous chapters. I hope to work with them in future endeavors.
Let me know what you guys think of this chapter, I love reading the comments.
As always, thanks for reading. See you next time 
Silver Wit
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ok, so
what other ships will there be
i'm hoping there won't be ships between any two members of the m6
or fluttercord
The wounds (both physically & emotionally) are starting to heal for both Spike & Rarity, still glad you didn't have him just forgive Rarity just like that after all she did before & at that party!
Speaking of which, there's still the issue of a certain pompous pony's fate, hope that will be addressed soon!
Glad to see another sweet chapter, keep yourself safe during these times Silver!
This was a good chapter and it's good to see that Rarity and Spike are working past their issues.
Overall, this was a very nice chapter for sure. It's nice to see Rarity get a bit of what she really does deserve in the form of Spike's repulsiveness toward her. And I know this may sound weird, but it's also nice to see what Spike says go a little too far for me when he said "I SAID WERE DONE". Showed that he obviously isn't completely heartless and feels a bit guilty. So this has been steady progress between the two.
I think it was a bit much in the way Spike apologized to Rarity though. A simple "Im sorry" would've been enough. And after the end with the two of them reading and talking, I just hope that Spike's anger for what Rarity did isn't COMPLETELY 100% gone. And that they've still got many ways to go if they ever hope to even just be friends at all. However, the part that concerns me most is that when they do forgive and be friends again, I REALLY hope that Spike doesn't just end up falling in love with her again (snaps fingers) just like that. Because as far as I'm concerned, as of now in the story, Spike's love for her is GONE, completely. And it'll take a near miracle for it to ever come back. I hope I'm not revealing much in the future, but maybe in a twist of fate, Rarity will be the one to fall in love with Spike and she'll have trouble telling him. And she'll have to get him to fall in love. I could be wrong. I'm just going off the bases of...
I REALLY hope you continue with this story because there's so much potential here. Keep up the good work
10298736
Thank you so much for the feedback, but get out of my head XD (jk). And don't worry, I have NO intention of just having things go back to normal with Spike being in love all over again, that'd not only cheat the readers, but it would cheat Spike and Rarity as well. It's a long and complicated road for the both of them and this is just their first step together. My main goal this arc is for Rarity to have a better understanding of Spike as well as being in a constant struggle with herself over how she treated him. A heart's a heavy burden and only time will tell where they go from here
10298655
I'll be sure to stay as safe as I can, you as well. And I don't want to say TOO much, but I did get some good ideas for my next few chapters so I don't think you'll have to wait for Posh's punishment much longer
10298421
Uuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhh, based on my previous chapters, you may be slightly disappointed in that last ship
10299139
why you gotta do this to me
it isn't too set up at this point, is it?
10299178
uuuummmmmmmmm....
10299248
i'm asking you to write it out before it's too written in
10299290
I... don't think I can do that, unfortunately
10299300
then you can have a dislike
do not reply, i don't want to look at this story anymore
you have effectively killed any interest i may have had
find a way to write it out and i might come back
10299325
I'll try to keep that in mind
I honestly liked how this chapter ended. To be frank I was very much not a fan of Spike for most of this chapter. He felt like a little kid throwing a fit. Or in better terms lashing out because he couldn't handle his own feelings. I wanted SOMEONE to call him out on how he was acting so I was happy when the doctor did. This is now a great point I have to say, we are at a point where some REAL healing and development between the two of them can happen. NO more hiding, no more pretending to be someone your not, this is a fresh start for the both of them and for them to get to really know each other.
10299822
I'm glad you picked up on Spike being a brat thing, didn't think it was a good idea in my first draft, but in my rewrite I felt it was important, more so with Hawkeye basically saying Spike's just being a stubborn jerk. Happy to hear you enjoyed this chapter
I was just reading some of the comments from Late_Night and I feel like I need to jump in. I know it’s not my place... but I’m really happy with how you handled the situation. I’m a huge Fluttercord fan myself and sadly, there will be people who dislike stories for ships they don’t agree with. I hope that comment didn’t guilt trip you into writing out Fluttercord, because while there may be some people who don’t appreciate it. I can promise you that the majority will.
10300247
I second that too
Troll assholes be troll assholes
10300247
but thank you for your kind words, it's readers like you that make it worth while 
Oh don't worry, Fluttercord is still a thing. It'll take a lot more than some jerk whining to deter me from my story. I'm sure there are people who don't like Life and Times because it's a Sparity fic, I'm still gonna write it because it's my favorite ship. I just thought the guy was meme-ing, but if he isn't going to offer constructive feedback and has the gall to tell me how to write my story, then good riddance. As a matter of fact, he kinda makes me want to write a Fluttercord chapter fairly soon
10300261
And thanks to you as well
10300488
Ofcourse! There are very few stories that I attempt to keep up with, but this story is one of them. I am completely in love with it. I adore sparity stories like this. Stories where the romance is slow and gets progressively more Involved. I’m just happy we’re finally getting to the part where love will soon blossom. You’ve done a fantastic job leading up to the romance. Well done! This is so far my favorite story so keep it up! (No pressure)
it's great to see spike and rarity are finally making progress on making amends!
10300536
I’ll be sure to work as hard as possible, especially since I have to handle Spike and Rarity very carefully right now. But I’ll do the best I can 
Geez, I’m glad you think so highly of my story.
10300717
Smalls steps, but steps nonetheless :)
Bit late to the party on this chapter it seems
I loved this chapter & its nice to see Rarity & Spike slowly starting to talk again, I've missed it. I really liked "She missed this feeling, this cozy feeling that seems to only spring forth when Spike is with her. She realized now, how much she took that warmth for granted. " & "tingling in her legs and butterflies in her belly." could this be the start of Rarity coming to understand something she didn't know or understand before, I wonder? 
Thanks again for the Chapter Silver Wit, can't wait to see what's going to come next. No I really can't, please don't make me wait
10300857
and I fell ya, I missed them talking together as well so I was pretty excited to get this chapter out, since now begins the healing process for both of them and perhaps Rarity will find out a few things about herself and her favorite dragon? Who knows? 
Never too late to the party here
10301495
Thanks again for the chapter
Here's hoping
Yay! An update!
You know as much as I love/hate the angst, I gotta admit Spike realizing how much of a dick he was and apologizing was really satisfying. And Rarity genuinely taking an interest in Spike’s... interests was really sweet. Gah I love these two.
Hope you’re staying safe and healthy!
10304491
Yeah, from this point on, the angst will be toned down a bit. There will still be challenges for the two (especially for Rarity), but they'll be on better terms. Not great terms, but they're working on it
It's good to see situation get better. ^^ But I also like your decision not to rush. I thought relationship after some serious conflict should be handled really carefully, even in fiction.
10341803
The last thing I want to do is cheat the audience (and the characters for that matter) by just having Spike and Rarity be right as rain in a heartbeat. I have to be super careful, but I think I can do it
No! D#@n it! FRICK! - I was binge reading this and hit the end. I want Moar
10443539
And you'll get moar soon, I swear it. Looking forward to the next chapter, I think it'll be good. Hopefully everyone will like it
I’m glad I waited to read more of this. I’m not a fan of leaving a story on a bad note. I can’t wait for the next chapter or what Twilight will think.
10509433
Next chappy is almost done, not to worry. I hope it'll be to your liking. I sure like it so far