Spike runs into a female dragon who shows him what it means to be a dragon. With a BLAZE
While doing a favor for Rarity Spike runs into a female dragon. He sees a glimpse after glimpse of his so called life and what he is. He must now choose to give up his pony half to be what he really is. Or suffer a life that he never knew he hated. She'll show him what it means to be a dragon-WITH A BLAZE!
It was a wonderful day in Equestria for all, especially in Ponyville. The sun was shining bright and the air was clean as always. It was days like these that a certain baby dragon and Unicorn loved.
After working so hard in her studies on magic and friendship, Twilight had an idea. She and Spike would head to Sugar Cube Corner for a small break. Spike agreed whole heartily to the plan.
After dealing with a bit of Pinkie... randomness, Spike ended up with a free gem cupcake. After Pinkie Pie gave them their order she seemed to...vanish, but a new cupcake would appear when they finished. She may be weird, but she sure can bake. He was already finishing his third when a certain Unicorn entered the bakery.
"Spikey-Wikey" a angelic voice spoke, it belonged to a white mare named Rarity "There you are, I've been looking for you."
Spike felt his skip a beat Rarity was looking for me! he thought in excitement What could she want?
"Hello milady" Spike greeted in a daze "What can I do for you?"
"Twilight I was wondering...I need Spike for a favor." she spoke hesitantly "I need gems for a dress..." she hesitated again "and I... ran out."
"So you want Spike to go gem hunting with you?" Twilight asked "I guess that's..."
"No deary" she cut her off "I need Spike to get the gems for me."
"WHAT, You want Spike to go gem hunting alone!?" Twilight asked "Rarity that's pretty dangerous for Spike, he's just a baby."
Wow, thinks for the vote of confidence Spike thought sarcastically.
"I would ask some-pony to go along but every-pony is busy, even you." Rarity defended herself "Spike is the only one who can find gems without a spell."
"Twilight, I can do it" Spike spoke "I go gem hunting with Rarity all the time."
"Yes, with her." Twilight spoke with emphasize "Why can't you go with him?" she asked her friend
"I have a very large order and I need to make the clothes." Rarity spoke "While I do this, Spike can get me the gems."
"Come on Twilight." Spike practically begged.
"I don't need that many." Rarity spoke "Spike can be in and out in a hurry."
"Well..." Twilight began as she looked into the pleading faces "Fine"
"Yes" both Spike and Rarity cheered
"Just fill this basket up" Rarity spoke producing picnic basket "that's all I need."
"Now remember Spike" Twilight began "if you get into any danger just run."
"Don't worry" Spike spoke "I can take care of myself." he flexed his muscles earning a giggle.
"Thank you again Spikey-Wikey" Rarity spoke "you are a true gentle-drake" she leaned in and gave him a kiss "I couldn't do this without you."
"Anything for you" Spike spoke dreamily "I'll be back later."
"I expect you back soon" Twilight stated "It's supposed to storm later on."
"Watch out for that doozy!" Pinkie shouted
Wait, WHAT?
Spike was like a dragon on a quest, he was determined to get Rarity the gems she needed. Though I'm sure she wouldn't mind if I snack on a few-NO, bad Spike, these are for Rarity. He needed to stay focused. I know the perfect place to look.
There was a small ravine that was just full of gems underground waiting to be dug up, he could smell them. There was a large amount of trees and vegetation to cover the area. In those woods were a lot of wild animals. There was waterfall on the side of a mountain than ran off into a nice sized stream. A few feet away from the waterfall was a large cave.
Spike found the ravine when he was out exploring when the girls where having their adventures. He instantly fell in love with the place. He wanted to share it but decided to make it his special spot, a little haven.
He couldn't wait to get there. How long has it been since I've been there anyway? He didn't know but it was too long for his taste. The only reason he didn't go more often was because it was a few miles out of the town.
That's when he heard it. From the direction of the ravine, he heard growls and roars.
Naturally when one heard these kind if noises they would turn away, Spike usually would have turned away.
Not this time.
For him the ravine was his, his home away from home. His territory. A dragon's territory was the same as their hoard. He couldn't abandon his territory, plus the best gems are there.
Spike slowly made his way toward the noises.
What Spike saw was far from what he was expecting, but not unusual. There was a pack of Diamond dogs attacking a dragon. This was not uncommon since both species were natural enemies for gems.
It was just something that's never happened this close to Ponyville.
There had to be six of them surrounding the dragon, and another six dead. They all seemed to be nothing but the lower Beta dogs so they weren't too smart. These dog however, were large, wore armor and brandished spears.
The dragon was black with large bloody wounds everywhere.
They seemed to have the dragon backed to a corner but were wary to get close.
Spike had to admit that he admired the dragon. Even as the dogs jabbed with those spears there was no backing down.
"Now I finish dragon" a voice spoke "and gem ours."
Spike turned his head and saw another diamond dog. It seemed that he hadn't seen Spike hiding in the bushes. It was one of the ones that pony-napped Rarity, the large grayish blue one.
The Diamond dog was brandishing a large spear, larger than the ones the others used. The kind that was used for the sole purpose of hunting and killing large creatures.
Like dragons.
The dog pulled his paw back to throw the weapon.
"NO!" Spike shouted
Spike didn't think, he just acted.
He jumped toward the Diamond dog and crashed with a full tackle. This caused the surprised Diamond dog to drop the spear. He and Spike to roll out of the bushes into the open in a heap. The shock was evident to all who saw the two.
The dragon was the first to recover from surprise and react. Using the snake like tail similar to a scorpion he impaled the nearest Diamond dog in the exposed neck part of the armor. The dog fell over and began to shudder and convulse.
Spike was grabbed by a pair of large paws and lifted up. He was now face to face with the Diamond dog he had tackled. The Diamond dog began to squeeze as if-no he was trying to crush Spike.
"You!" the dog shouted in anger.
The Diamond dog seemed to have remembered Spike. In the instant of recognition he relaxed his grip on Spike. This was enough for the young dragon to draw breath.
And expel fire.
The flame Spike usually produces isn't much, an insult really. Thankfully the Fight-or-Flight instinct kicked in and Spike chose fight. His fear allowed him to produce a slightly larger flame. It wasn't enough to hurt, but it did scare the Diamond dog enough to drop Spike.
The Diamond dog was on his feet faster than Spike. He was already making his way toward the baby dragon in a rage.
Spike knew he was in trouble, he needed an idea and fast. He glimmer from the corner of his eye caught his attention, it was a spear.
With no better plan the baby dragon grabbed the spear. It was to big for him to hold properly, but he managed to raise it. I hope this works.
Spike waited for the outcome, whether it be the death of the Diamond dog or his.
Nothing.
Spike never felt the feeling of something ramming into the spear. He never felt himself being knocked over to be killed.Am I already dead?
All he felt was something wet move across his chest. Spike's eyes snapped open as he felt the strange sensation. He was being licked!
His green eyes snapped open to meet a pair of red orbs.
"That got your attention." the dragon spoke giving a low chuckle.
Spike looked toward where the Diamond dog that he tackled was. The Diamond dog was on the ground completely still, a pool of blood under him. Spike didn't need anyone to tell him the dog was dead.
"Y-you killed them all."
"Not all" he was corrected "one got away."
Up close Spike could see that the dragon was black with red markings similar to a tigers' stripes everywhere, even on the underbelly of the dragon. A snake like tail with a triangular type point at the end swayed calmly. The most interesting part was that the dragon was a female, the first female dragon Spike ever met. She was quadrupedal and as big as two full grown Manticores.
She's beautiful was his thoughts
"Thank you." she spoke causing Spike to jump back in shock.
"Ho- Can you read my mind?" he asked.
"No." she answered, pointing her tail to him "Your spines are standing up."
Spike turned to look at his spines as best he could. Just as she said, his spines were standing. He was thankful for his thick scales to hide his blush.
"I'm s-sorry" he spoke "t-that's never happened before."
"What are you doing here?" she asked calmly.
"I um, I was... am here to..." Spike was at a loss.
"STOP!" she roared knocking Spike back in shock "YOUR A DRAGON, AREN'T YOU?"
"Y-yes." Spike answered terrified.
"Then act like it." she snapped "Even a baby dragon is a great dragon" she grabbed him by the arm and stood him up "if he stands against the world, and does it with a blaze!"
Spike stared at the dragoness in front of him in a mixture of feelings. She was trying to get him to act like a dragon. Not like the ones he met at the migration, but the kind he always pictured.
Proud and majestic.
"I'm Spike and I'm here here to gather gems for my friend." he spoke in a way he never knew he could "What are you doing here?"
"I have claimed this area as my territory." she spoke coldly.
Spike didn't show it but he was devastated, he had just lost his haven. Once a dragon claimed an area as theirs, then that was it. Everything in a mile long radius became their territory.
The only way to get anything was to fight for it. It seemed the bigger dragon knew this since she became cold to him. He lowered his head in submission, Spike knew it was a fight he would lose.
The black dragon must have known how he felt because she spoke again.
"Take the gems from the dead Diamond dogs." she spoke "I've claimed this area as my territory... but you can have them."
"T-thank you" Spike spoke with false happiness Diamond dogs always carry gems
The baby dragon had no trouble taking from the dogs. Not after their last encounter when the kidnapped Rarity. His only problem was stealing from the dead.
"Before you get to business" she spoke again "we can't let such a meal go to waste." she pointed to the bodies "Join me." she pointed to the Diamond dog that he tackled "You helped finish him so he's all yours."
Spike almost went full green at what she was implying. She wants me to eat him! He'd never eaten meat in his life, he was raised vegetarian. His family was made of ponies after all.
"No thanks" Spike tried not to gag "I'm fine."
"Do you wish to insult me?"
Spike nearly smacked himself for his own stupidity. Dragons were very territorial, especially with their food. Refusing something like that was like spitting in their face. Insulting a dragon wasn't good for your health.
"No, I don't." he answered, once again afraid "I've... I've never eaten meat." He wasn't ashamed of that, it was how he was raised.
"I know" she spoke "You don't smell like you have an ounce of blood on you." she gave a roll of her eyes "You pony born never do."
Her comment shocked the babay dragon. "How did you know I was raised by ponies?" Spike asked cautiously
"I can smell them on you." she answered as she made her way to the dead dog and raised a claw. In a horrible moment she ripped out his heart and handed it to him "It's the best part, eat."
It wasn't a request.
Spike held the still warm and beating organ in his hand. It was then that he realized how hungry he was. Well... it doesn't smell too bad strangely enough, it didn't smell bad at all. It was actually smelled nice.
With only a moments hesitation he bit into the organ. The heart released it's blood into his mouth with a wild gush. It was warm and went down easily as he drank.
It wasn't long before he drained it and swallowed the meat whole. It completely quenched a thirst he didn't know he had. But it started a hunger he never knew existed.
Spike made his way to the dead Diamond dog and knelt. Without a word from the dragoness, he began to eat. His teeth tore through with ease as the remaining blood jumped around his tongue. He devoured chunks of flesh off the Diamond dog at a time and only tore more off.
Spike had never eaten meat before that day, but now he knew he has been missing out.
All too soon it was gone, but not his hunger. Now there was only bones.
Bones and regret.
"Told you, the best part." she spoke "Always gets the hunger going."
I ate him Spike thought in a bit of a daze I actually ate him.
Spike looked down at himself. His body was covered in the Diamond dog's blood.
He never felt the dragoness position herself over his knelt form. She began to lick him, removing the blood but gaining his attention. He quickly jumped from her grasp. He hoped he didn't offend her, but she only gave him a curious glare.
"Hmm fine, you can use the river to remove the blood." she spoke
"No!" Spike spoke, a little too fast, not meeting her eyes "Thank you for the... meal, but I have to go." he looked up to the darkening sky "I'll let the rain clean me." And take another bath at home.
Spike started gathering the gems from the deceased Diamond dogs. He did his best not to notice the gaze of the black and red dragoness on his back.
Or his hunger.
Once he had the gems he placed them in the basket he brought. It wasn't a moment too soon, the rain began to pour down.
"Goodbye." Spike spoke never looking back.
"See you later." she returned with a certain tone.
Spike left toward the town as the rain washed him clean. Washed away all of the blood and regret. Wash it all away. Something told him no amount of baths would wash it away.
Spike had made it back to Ponyville with little to no trouble. Just as he had hoped, the rain washed away the blood. Just as he had feared, it didn't wash away anything else.
As he continued through the storm he came upon Sugar Cube corner. Inside chatting away were Twilight, Rarity and Pinkie Pie. They turned their attention to him when he entered.
"Spike, your back." Twilight spoke happily.
"Did you get the gems?" Rarity asked.
Spike wordlessly handed the basket to Rarity. She happily examined the pieces for her work.
"Spike, these are simply amazing!" she spoke in delight "Where in Equestria did you get them?"
"I... knew a place." Spike answered without his usual confidence.
"Well Spikey-wickey" Rarity spoke "These are more than I need, so here you go."
Rarity handed Spike a small cut of the gems that she didn't need. He looked at the crystals without his usual passion.
"Pinkie, could I get a doggy bag?"
"Sure" the pink mare handed him one "But wouldn't you rather a dragon bag?"
"Aren't you going to eat them?" Twilight asked.
"Not now." he answered shocking all three mares "I'm not hungry" that shocked them further, actually he was starving but the gems just didn't appeal to him I can't tell them what I really want.
"Are you feeling well?" Twilight asked cautiously.
"Actually... I was wondering if I could head to home?" Spike spoke "I think I'll just sleep."
"But it's only mid-afternoon" Pinkie spoke "There so much to do in a day to just sleep." she paused "Then again there's too much to do in any day." she began to think heavily "I wonder if I could make a days worth of fun in a single party." she perked at the idea "Then I could throw several parties a day, I could call it a..." she was cut off by Twilight
"Sure Spike." Twilight spoke "Just don't sleep too much, you'll end up awake all night.
Spike gave a snort at that. "I never have sleep troubles."
"WAIT A SECOND" Pinkie hopped toward the baby dragon and began sniffing him "Why do you smell like regret and saliva?"
"...That has a smell?"
"Everything has a smell to my Pinkie nose" Pinkie Pie answered happily.
"I uh..." grabbing his gems Spike made a mad dash for the library.
He wasn't very tired, but the days event was catching up with him. I can't believe I ate meat. Spike had went to a fitful sleep as soon as he climbed into his basket. His last thoughts were I hope no pony finds out.
Why can't I go back to sleep? Spike had always loved to sleep and was a very hard sleeper. For him it was easy to sleep but hard to wake. There was no pony who would, or even could, deny that. It was rare for him to have any sleep troubles.
He felt truly awful, both physically and mentally. This is probably from eating meat, I knew it was a bad i... A wave of nausea washed over him cutting off his thoughts. I haven't felt this bad since Twilight's last spell backfired on me.
He looked over to Twilight to see the Unicorn sleeping peacefully. You just had to be right. He envied the purple mare more than ever. Probably dreaming of books.
I need some fresh air.
The baby dragon climbed out of the basket as quietly as possible. He didn't want to wake the purple Unicorn from her peaceful slumber. It was ironic, he lost count of the number of times she ruined his. He chuckled dryly You should feel lucky that I'm so forgiving.
He made his way down the stairs without a peep.
"Who."
Spike felt as if his heart was about to explode. He turned to the one who made the sound. It was Owlicious, Twilight's number two assistant.
"Shhh" he hushed the owl "You'll wake Twilight."
"Who?"
"Twilight."
"Who?"
"Don't you start that again." Spike growled, he made his way to the door until only for the owl to start again. "I'm just going on a walk."
"Who."
"Look, just let me go and... I'll add a little to your meal." he bargained.
"Who."
"Later"
Spike had made it to one of the many parks when it started. He didn't know what it was, but it hit hard. It was a good thing the park was empty.
It started small and barely noticeable. However, like anything small it began to grow. It began to wash over Spike in wave after wave. He resisted for a moment before doubling over in pain.
What is this? The only way to describe it was warm, that meant one thing. I'm... burning, but... Dragons don't burn... Another wave ran through him.
Dragons were naturally heat resistant and actually comfortable in lava. When dragon were sick they just got colder, never warmer. Only a dragon could burn another dragon, even then it was under certain circumstances.
The heat was too much for the baby, he lost consciousness.
As Spike slept he dreamed of a hoard, his hoard. It was glorious, even for a dragon. It was made of hundreds of gems, even the rarest types were mixed in.
On top was massive figure.
Him.
Spike snapped awake from pain.
The heat was still there and growing.
Spike's body began to experience an intense pressure. It was as if his body was being pulled in every direction. He felt his muscles stretch under his scales as if they would tear.
He neck and tail elongated on his body.
His bones began to crack under the strain of it it all. Growing at an unnatural rate just to keep up.
His mind couldn't keep up and shut down.
When Spike re-awoke he knew something was wrong. It was still dark so he wasn't sleep long. But something was different. Everything was smaller and he was further from the ground.
It felt oddly familiar.
No...
He made his was too the lake. It was a painful process since everyone of his joints screamed in protest.
He looked for his reflection and his fear became real. What he saw wasn't the familiar round face of a baby dragon. It was the elongated beak-like maw of an older dragon.
"No no no" he cried in a deeper voice "Not again!"
Think Spike, think! He needed to focus I haven't been snatching again, so why am I growing?
He needed help.
I can't go to Twilight, she'd assume I was stealing... I can't go to the other ponies either, their sleeping. Who could he turn to? No pony... THAT'S IT! No pony, but maybe a Zebra. Zecora had helped him through the first growth, maybe she could help him again.
The heat and pain seemed to redouble. They were focused in two spots specifically, between his shoulder blades. The growing sensation returned as well, with a vengeance.
Zecora...
He needed to get to her, she was his only hope.
But the pain was too intense. There was no way he could make it to her home in this condition. He needed to escape the pain, he needed away out.
The pain felt like a both tearing sensation and sensation continued to build up more and more. There obviously wasn't going to be any relief soon so he did the only thing he could.
He shut down.
Spike didn't know how he did it, but he did. He had somehow dragged himself to the edge of the Everfree forest. Now he just needed to remember the path to her home.
He looked to his back with his elongated body. He saw a pair of large and impressive wings. Unfortunately no matter how impressive they looked they were of no use. They hung limply by his side dragging on the ground.
He was still able to walk on his two hind legs. Although he was slightly hunched over.
I need to rest The former baby dragon made his way to a near by lake just for a minute.
Spike didn't know if the water was salt or fresh and he didn't care. He was thirsty! He scooped some into his claws and brought it up. The water slid down his throat pleasantly.
He couldn't hold in the sigh of content, but he wished he had.
From his sigh he unleashed a large ball of red fire, not green, red. The natural kind that burned away at things.
Spike instantly closed his mouth. It's getting worse! He was breathing actual fire, it was getting dangerous. I need to contain myself!
He tried to hold the fire in, to control it, but it was fire! The flames sat in him growing and expanding in his body. The fire built up in his chest until it was too much, it forced it's way out. The flames burst free in large balls of fire. It was like the letters, they forced their way out again and again. Only now it was wild and dangerous.
The fire scared away all the creatures that got too close. That was a good thing, now they would be safe. It wouldn't be long before he hit a tree and started a wildfire.
I need to control it He hit the lake or direct it.
He aimed for the lake as the flames flew. The water was boiling in under a minute and still going. He could tell there would be no stopping the fire like this. I need to get to the source.
Spike made his way closer to the lake...
And dived in.
As he let himself sink he opened his mouth and let the flames go freely. The water filled his mouth but didn't douse the flames. Now that he let it out freely there was a vigor to it. It was as if the flames were fighting the water.
As the flames raged and the water boiled, science kicked in.
To burn, fire needed a source of fuel and air. For a dragon that was only partly true, they created the fuel to burn. However fire still needed air...
And Spike needed to breath.
Spike couldn't take a breath of air under water.
Spike looked for the surface but couldn't see it. The water was bubbling too hard for him to see properly. He tried to stop the flames in hopes of stopping the bubbling. Even though he was low on oxygen his body continued to force out the fire.
He tried to swim in any direction but couldn't, he only continued to sink. His body was still too new and awkward for him to control.
Everything was beginning to go dark for the dragon. He couldn't feel his energy, only the weight of his body.
As he sunk he had only one last thought.
Zecora...
He never noticed his fire turn green.
When he came to again he wasn't underwater, but he was still wet. Spike was completely exhausted, even his fire had finally stopped.
He was moving- No, he was being carried.
Spike used what little energy he could muster to lift himself up. He looked down and saw that he was in a wagon. Pushing it was a hooded pony, or at least he thought. He couldn't see their face, or any part of them.
"W-what's h-happening?" Spike asked,
"Do not fret young dragon" a female voice spoke "Just lay in the wagon."
"Twilight..."
"No, I'm not the Unicorn" she stated "I am zebra born."
"Z-Zecora" he realized Only she rymes like that "I need h-help..." she cut him off with a hoof to the mouth
"I know, so sleep." she ordered "When you awake you may want to weep."
Wait "W-what?"
Zecora had managed to push the dragon to her cottage while he slept. Usually she would be patient in these kind of matters. Not in this one, not when her sleep was ruined.
She gave the wagon a powerful buck. The force was enough to awake Spike.
"Zecora" Spike spoke quickly "I need your help, I don'y know what's happening to me I..."
"Please be silent!" she hissed "or I may act violent!"
Spike was very shocked at her statement "A-are you okay?"
Zecora pulled down the hood of her robes revealing her face. There was a deep scowl and a glare aimed for him. She was missing her usual jewelry and her hair was down. She was dripping with water.
"I was sleeping you fool, then my hut became a pool!"
"What?"
Zecora bucked opened the door to her hut, inside were pools of water. Everything was completely soaked and most likely ruined.
But why is she mad at me?
That's when he saw it.
Even through the water he saw it, green fire. The green flames danced harmlessly on the pools of water. Even some of Zecora's items were doused in the flames. Strangely enough, they weren't burning.
"I did this?" he asked "How?" he looked to Zecora "How'd you know it was me?"
"Your green flame is a transporter" Zecora spoke, less angrily "It seems that includes water."
"I'm sor... wait, how did you find me?" Spike asked, he had been pretty far from her hut.
Zecora pointed her hoof toward fish that had somehow transferred. Spike had never seen anything like it. It was helplessly jumping on the little water it could get.
"There's only one place that this fish can survive" she spoke "So I guess you took a dive."
I can transport water? Spike thought excitedly What else can I transport? He'd have to remember to send a letter to the Princess when he had the chance.
"Thank you for saving me" Spike spoke "but I'm still in trouble." he pointed to himself "I'm changing again and I haven't been snatching."
"That I can see" she examined him "You're almost as big as me."
It was true, Spike had increased in size and grew wings to match. He was almost the height of a average adult pony. His body was also thin, no more baby chubbiness, and his spines were thicker.
"Do you know what's wrong with me?"
"Maybe I do, but I need some answers from you." she leaned in to study him "Tell me Spike, what is your diet like?"
Spike flinched and wouldn't meet her gaze. "Why is that important?"
"This growth is not from greed, tell me what I need."
"I've been eating gems and hay fries." he answered.
"Spike, tell me what's real" Zecora stated firmly "or I can't help you in this ordeal."
"I am" as soon as he said that she turned away "what's wrong?"
"If intend to lie, then I must say goodbye."
Spike looked away from her stern gaze "Please" he begged "don't make me say it."
"What did you eat?" she asked "was it meat?"
Spike still looked away Zecora's gaze. The guilt and shame were returning to him greater than ever. He could still fill the flesh inside him, and his craving for more.
"...Yes" he whispered "I don't know why I did it but I just couldn't stop when I started." he explained "Please, don't tell Twilight" he begged
"Calm yourself young Spike, everything is alright."
"It is?" his hope returned
"Yes, you are fine " she spoke "this would happen in time."
"What..."
"Dragons are known for eating meat." she stated "It just comes with a strange feat."
"So this happened because I ate meat?" he asked gaining a nod "Can you turn me back?"
"You... wish to turn back?" he could see her confusion "That would be a strange act."
"What do you mean strange?" Spike asked "I can't let them see me like this!" he exclaimed "Twilight would ask questions and do research." he began to panic at the outcome "She'd find out and... and..." he began to tear up.
Zecora looked at the dragon about to break down in front of her. She knew dragon's pride wouldn't actually allow it. That was when she remembered something important. Spike is pony bred, he has their ways in his head. Spike knew almost nothing of his kinds way and had no pony or dragon to tell him. He must be terrified, I guess his form I must help hide.
Zecora gave a sigh as she made her way to one of her drawers. She began rummaging through until she found what she was looking for. A small golden chain necklace, there was a green gem in the middle.
"Do not be so glum" she spoke "I knew a time like this would come"
"What?" he asked "How did you...?"
"We dragons and Zebras are close, at one time I was a host." she held the necklace up "To keep the damages minimized, they needed to come down in size."
"So this will shrink me back to normal?" he asked
"It will change your size and keep those from pony eyes." she pointed to his wings
Spike wasted no time in placing the necklace on. As soon as he did it started taking affect. His body began to convulse before being forced back into his smaller form. It was just as painful becoming smaller as it was growing, only this time he didn't get to feint.
When it was done he looked to the Zebra.
"Y-you give this to guests?" He rasped.
"Why do you think they don't return?" she asked laughing "I believe some want to see me burn."
"Right" So do I.
"I must warn you that you can hide your form, but you can't stop the brewing storm."
"What?" he asked "Pegasi stop storms all the time, right?"
"They post pone it for a time near" she stated putting a hoof on his chest "just like we did the one in here" she looked him deep in the eyes "It is something you shouldn't fear."
Spike said nothing but understood. If he kept trying to suppress his dragon side then it would fight back.
Spike was happy and full of relief. Now that he had the necklace on he was himself. He would now try to forget the ordeal but remember Zecora's warning.
But what am I supposed to do against it? It was a problem he had no answer to.
From Zecora's warning it was like he was supposed to indulge himself every now and again. But how, the only animals small enough to eat were pets. He didn't want to risk it.
He had seen Fluttershy's darker side.
"Spike you must confess" Zecora spoke "What put you in this mess?"
He thought back before answering.
"I met this female dragon..." He didn't know how to continue.
"Enough has been said." Zecora said with a knowing smile "I know what was in your head."
"What do you mean?" Spike asked with a small blush.
Zecora simply pointed behind him. The baby dragon looked and saw that his spines were standing up again. He gave the zebra an embarrassed smile and a nervous chuckle. I had better leave before I humiliate myself even further he thought.
"Thank you for your help Zecora." Spike spoke hastily "I owe you..."
"Paying the debt now would be better." she spoke dropping a mop in his hand "My things couldn't get wetter."
Well, it is my fault he though as he began working
Spike had finally finished after only an hour or two of work and the sun would start rising very soon. He finished quickly thanks to a little fire, under Zecora's watch, to help. That and all the experience he had from cleaning up after Twilight, and when Pinkie throws a party at the library.
Now he was heading back home to his basket. It's still early, I might be able to get a little sleep in he thought.
As he climbed up the stairs he was as silent as possible. Don't want to wake Twilight he thought.
When he saw her sleeping form he knew he was safe. Hello my old friend, I've missed you he thought as he gazed at his basket. Spike had a feeling that he'd be able to enjoy his sleep this time.
He thought as he grabbed a quill and letter.
Dear Princess Celestia
It has come to my attention that I could transport water. Strangely it didn't go to you, it went to a friend. I was wondering what else I could do.
If you know, please inform me.
Your faithful students #1 assistant
Spike
After the letter was sent Spike prepared for bed. Until he heard some shuffling from behind.
"Spike" Twilight called drowsily "Oh, your awake." there was a large amount of shock in her voice "Good, now we can begin the day."
That's just not fair He thought
As soon as Twilight was up they began their day as they usually do. Spike made her breakfast and enjoyed the gems Rarity had given him. For some strange reason they weren't the same. He enjoyed them, but they seemed to have lacked their... luster. Even after he had finished all of them, he was still hungry.
After that Twilight began her studying while Spike began to clean. He did the dishes, swept and even dusted the books.
There were the occasional ponies coming to check out a book or two.
"Hello?" an angelic voice called "Is any pony home?"
"Hello Rarity." Twilight greeted putting her books away "You're early."
"Well I..." the white mare noticed Spike "Hello Spikey-Wikey" she greeted "How are you?"
"I'm doing fine milady." Spike answered in a daze "How was your order?"
"Oh the client was most pleased." She spoke happily giving him a kiss to the head. "I couldn't have done it without you."
"It was no problem." He replied trying to suppress his blush.
"Spike." She stammered "That's an... interesting necklace you have."
Rarity could honestly say that she had never seen anything like it. It was a simple gold chain that hung loosely on his neck. On it was a small green stone with a strange marking on it. It's must be completely foreign to these lands Rarity though, that much was obvious.
"It is Spike." Twilight added, noticing it for the first time. "Where did you get it?"
"Thanks." He spoke a little hesitantly "It was a... gift."
"Do you mind if I... examine it?" Rarity asked in desire.
Spike felt his insides freeze... or warm up. It wasn't very comfortable for coldblooded creatures, at the request. He didn't want to deny Rarity anything but... he didn't know how she would act to his form. I can't let her find out he thought in a panic.
"I... I'd actually be more comfortable with it on." He spoke averting his gaze from the white mare.
"Oh, uh I see." she replied awkwardly. "I understand."
"Come on Spike." Twilight spoke with a roll of her eyes "It's not like Rarity is going to steal it." she chuckled "She is the 'Element of Generosity'."
"I know that." He responded sharply "It's just..."
Spike was cut off by Twilight's glowing horn, a small field surrounded the necklace. Spike instantly brought his claws up to hold onto the magical artifact as Twilight tried to remove it.
"Twilight... please!" He grunted as he felt his efforts begin to fail "Stop!"
"Dear, please stop!" Rarity protested causing Twilight to stop "It obviously means something to him."
That's Rarity for you He thought lovingly. Thinking of others.
"Well, I guess your right." Twilight reluctantly agreed "Come on, we're going to be late."
"Late, late for what?" Spike asked the Unicorns.
"Rarity, the girls and I are meeting up for a picnic." Twilight explained.
"Can't I come?" Spike asked hopefully.
"Sorry Spike." Twilight answered as she grabbed a book "We'll be gone awhile and you haven't finished your chores."
The baby dragon looked around and saw books strewn on the floor. But this is your mess he thought angrily. This was how it always went, she makes a mess and he cleans it.
Even back in Canterlot.
Spike's head lowered in disappointment and sadness. Left out again he thought bitterly.
This went unnoticed by Twilight but not by Rarity. She gave the baby dragon a small nudge and gentle smile.
"Cheer up." she smiled "It's just us girls so you're not missing anything big." she though on what to say next "We'll just be talking about the usual mare stuff and you'd be bored out of your mind."
"Yeah." he tried to perk up, but failed "Mare stuff"
"Exactly."
Twilight; who had finished her gathering her stuff, was now waiting patiently for Rarity. They were about to leave when Twilight turned and gave Spike a final call.
"Spike" she called "If you finish in time you can go play with your friends."
"But I..." he never finished.
She was already gone.
"...don't have any friends." he finished sadly
The closest he had were the six mares.
Well I had better get to work he thought bitterly.
Spike had long since finished cleaning the library, he even re-shelved Twilight's books. There had been the occasional book seeker but they were easily taken care of. There didn't seem to be many mares or colts readers in Ponyville.
I could read a book he thought Again!
He had been cooped up in the library so long that he read most of the good books. The thought of doing so again just annoyed him to no end. He had no idea how Twilight could do it.
As he sat in contemplation a familiar sensation moved his stomach. With an emerald colored belch a letter appeared.
Dear Spike
Your fire is capable of transporting any non-living object anywhere you please. You must simply know and think of the location or pony. If you give a spark of your fire to some pony, they can send letters to you. You are also capable of 'storing' things until you want them back. A type of personal pocket dimension.
With love
Celestia
P.S. No need to be formal.
Well that's great Spike thought happily. I can't wait to tell Twili-
His train of thought took a slight pause. What if he did tell Twilight, what would happen? She'd probably make me carry books inside. It was very likely, Twilight always complained about not being able to carry more books in her satchel. If she found out what he could do...He shuddered at the idea.
Besides, everypony...and dragon has secrets.
And it killed... less than a minute.
It was times like these that his missed Peewee the most. The Phoenix had made the loneliness of the library bearable for the baby dragon. Even if it was only a little he though.
Since both Peewee and Twilight were gone there was only one thing to do. It was what he always did when this happened.
He waited.
When Twilight finally returned home it was well after sunset.
"Man that was fun." she mumbled to herself.
"What was?" Spike asked interested
"Pinkie through another party." Twilight answered tiredly
"Oh." Spike mumbled feeling down. And another I didn't get to go to "Must have been nice."
It seemed Twilight was finally able to pick up on Spike's mood.
"Spike... are you okay?" she asked worriedly.
"I'm fine" he answered dryly "Just..." he trailed off.
"How... were your friends?" She asked awkardly.
What friends?
"Didn't go anywhere." Spike answered dryly.
"So you stayed here" she asked examining the library "and cleaned?" Before he could answer, she nuzzled her face to his "You really are my number 1 assistant."
"Thanks Twilight" for some reason he didn't feel as thankful as usual.
"Can't you let a dragon sleep?" Spike asked drowsily.
"Not if we want to stay on schedule." she answered "Come on, we have a day of studying."
Everything had gone back into it's usual routine after Spike received the necklace. Twilight would either study or leave with her friends and rarely invite Spike. He still went to help Rarity but started cutting back in fear of eating her gems. They may have lacked luster but he was still hungry and they were food.
At least it's just us he thought as he watched her study.
-Buzz-
"What was that?" Spike asked.
"What was what? Twilight asked into her book.
"TWILIGHT!" a hyper pink mare shouted "SOMETHING HAPPENED!"
"Pinkie, how did you get in here?" Twilight asked in surprise.
"No time!" Pinkie answered "It's Gummy and I need you."
"What's wrong?" Twilight asked "What can I do?"
"I need you to attend his party." Pinkie answered with joy. The pink Earth pony began bouncing around throwing streamers.
"A... party?" The purple mare was confused "Why?"
"Gummy grew his first tooth!" Pinkie answered in unrivaled joy "I'm so proud."
"So you decided to throw Gummy a 'First Tooth' party." Twilight spoke a matter-of-fact tone
"No, that would be silly." Pinkie spoke with a wave of her hoof "I'm throwing him a renaming party."
"Renaming?" Spike asked "Why does he need a new name?"
-Buzz-
There it is again! For some reason the mares didn't seem to notice.
"He can't be Gummy with teeth!" Pinkie answered as if it were obvious.
"Did you name him Gummy just so you throw this party?" Spike asked skeptically "And isn't pretty early in the morning for a party?"
"The better question is when will I get to throw this type of party this early again?" Pinkie asked "So are you coming?"
"Pinkie, it's very early in the morning and..." she looked into Pinkie's hope filled eyes "Well..." the Unicorn thought on it "I am head in my studies."
"YES!" Pinkie bounced in joy "Let's go."
"Spike take care of the library!" Twilight managed to say as the pink Earth pony grabbed the purple Unicorn and dashed off. They were gone in a pink blur leaving the purple dragon in the library.
Alone.
-Buzz-
What is that noise!?
The purple dragon had sat in isolation as the time passed, it had been hours. He knew how long Pinkie's parties could last and knew not to expect Twilight for awhile. So he sat there sulking instead of cleaning.
He was tired of cleaning.
-Buzz-
He was also tired of that buzzing noise! It had been going constantly and only got louder.
-Knock-knock-
The baby dragon went to answer the door and was shocked. Spike's green eyes met a pair of ruby reds.
"You!" Spike shouted.
It was the black and red dragoness Spike had met a few weeks ago. She stood in front of the door staring down at the baby dragon in curiosity.
"Yes, me." she replied amused
"What are you doing here?" Spike asked nervously
"I'm here for you hatch-ling." she answered. "You didn't answer my calls."
"What calls?" Spike asked "How did you find me?" He tried looking around her "Has any pony seen you?"
"No." she answered "Would that be bad?"
"Very!" Spike answered hastily "Come inside!"
"I'm a bit... to large for these doors." she stated with a small chuckle "I have a better idea." she spoke getting a mischievous look in her eyes "You come with me."
She never gave Spike a chance to reply. The black dragoness grabbed Spike in her claws and took to the skies.
"What the hay are you doing?" Spike asked in fear as he got a glimpse of the ground.
"Don't worry." she spoke "We're above the clouds so none of the ponies will see us."
"Why are you pony napping me?" Spike asked
"I'm not." she answered "I'm dragon napping you."
"That doesn't make me fill any better!" Spike snapped
"It wasn't supposed to hatch-ling." she admitted bluntly "Just correct you."
At least the buzzing stopped. The thought didn't make him feel any better.
The dragoness had flew them all the way to her den, Spike's former haven. She dropped him off and landed inside the cave near the waterfall.
Before he could ask any questions on the dragoness mental state, a sparkle stopped him. It was a gem-No it was a hoard of gems. Spike had never seen this many gems since the Everfree dragon's hoard.
"Give me a moment hatch-ling and I will free you." she stated making a her way to him.
"Free me?" Spike asked backing away "From what?"
"From those ponies." she stated, as if obvious.
"But I am free." the baby protested.
"I don't think so." The dragoness pointed to the necklace Zecora gave him "Last I checked, those who wear collars are pets."
Spike was starting to understand, he wasn't liking it. "I wear this necklace of my own free will" Spike growled "I don't wan't them to know how I really..."
"You are... ashamed of what you are?" She asked in disgust "Is that why you let them shackle your true form with Zebra magic?"
"I... wait, how did you know what I look like?" Spike asked tensely as he stared at her still form "You knew what would happen didn't you?"
"I am a dragoness" she answered in a amused tone "I saw that you were being stunted from eating only gems and pony food." She continued "I gave you the meat so that you could be free of that form and those ponies."
"You're crazy!" Spike shouted "Those ponies are my friends, Ponyville is my home." he gave her a sharp glare "When I changed I put them in danger because of you!" he pointed at the dragoness "I could have hurt Twilight or one of her friends."
"Her friends?" The dragoness asks.
"T-They're my friends too!" He spoke.
"They use you!" the dragoness countered "I've been watching you hatch-ling."
"Long enough to know that they leave you alone, a lot." she answered "To know they don't say thank you as often as they should." she pointed to his enchanted necklace "To know that they collar you like a pet."
"They don't." He tried to deny, but she didn't listen.
"The purple one has used you for labor." The dragoness stated.
"She...I...I'm her assistant!" He reasoned.
"So is the owl." She countered "Does the Unicorn use it for her magical experiments."
"...No."
"The Rainbow and Pink ones humiliates you." She continued "A lot."
"Friends prank each other." Spike responded.
"And then forgets them?" She asks.
"...No."
"The White one..." She was cut off.
"Do. Not. Bring. Rarity. Into. This!" Spike hissed, all deep fear gone.
"...The yellow one fears you."
That one hurt Spike "And the Orange one?" He asked trying to speed her along.
"You tell me."
Spike thought he had the advantage for this one. "We barely...even...talk." How wrong he was.
"You see?" She asks
"I'm not a pet!" Spike shouted angrily as he continued flailing his arm "Twilight may not be a dragoness but she's still family to me." he pointed to his necklace "I wear this necklace, this collar, so I don't hurt them."
The dragoness gazed into Spike's eyes as is she was searching for something. A hint of doubt or even a sign of regret. When she didn't find it, she lowered her head in shame.
"Hatch-ling, I...have caused you a grave insult." the dragoness admitted.
"My name is Spike." He stated.
"I know hatch-ling."
They sat in silence for a few minutes until it was broken, by Spike's stomach. The baby dragon turned his head from embarrassment while she gave from him an amused look.
"Hungry?" she asked
"I'm always hungry." Spike whispered without thinking.
"I know." she answered "What are you in the mood for?" she asked looking around "A bear, beaver or..."
"Gems" Spike stated firmly "Gems only."
"Well." she drawled "Let's find some." Spike's eyes turned to the hoard "Some that aren't mine."
She grabbed him by his legs and took off into the air. Spike had the suspicion that she enjoyed his fear of heights.
"Here we are hatch-ling." she spoke.
Spike didn't need her to announce it, he could smell the gems in the area.
They were near the area he and Rarity used to gem hunt. They never returned after the Diamond dog incident. From the looks of it the Diamond dogs had been taking advantage of that. There were holes from their digging everywhere.
"The Diamond dogs will be back soon." she warned "Eat now, I'll return shortly." she took off in a hurry.
Spike didn't know what to do so he began digging in a spot where he smelled gems. He found a decent pile and began munching away in peace.
He never noticed the dragoness' return.
He did notice her tongue across his back.
The feeling of her tongue caused him to shudder. He was beginning to get used to the moist, warm sensation. Once his shock was over he jumped to his feet only to slip. He looked up to the female dragon's amused eyes.
"I see you're enjoying the gems." she spoke "Full yet?"
"Yes." he lied.
"Do not ever lie to me." she spoke in a calming tone
She reached behind herself, out of Spike's vision, and pulled something. There was a wet tearing sound as she finished pulling. It was meat, a large piece of dead boar.
"Want some?" she asked as the drool fell from his mouth.
"N-no." he answered "Gems are fine."
"I told you never to lie to me hatch-ling." she spoke calmly.
She held the meat and bit into it dramatically. Spike watched as the meat disappeared into her maw. They didn't break eye contact. Another piece was torn away from the boar, and then another, until it was gone.
Almost.
There was one piece of the boar left, the heart.
Spike watched as she slowly reached for the boar, never breaking eye contact. With a light pull the heart came free of the ribs.
"A hungry dragon will have a pitiful blaze." she spoke "Eat."
She wanted him to eat and Spike definitely wanted to eat.
No, don't give in. "I'm not hungry..." Spike forced out "For meat."
"Are you sure?" she asked amused
Don't give in. "Yes."
"Fine." She stated no longer telling him not to lie.
Slowly, painfully slowly, she raised the heart to her mouth.
Don't give...
"It's going to be delicious."
Don't...give...
She opened her mouth.
Don't...
"WAIT!" Spike cried, he tried to close his mouth as soon as he opened it.
Too late, the word was out and the food was gone. The dragoness only gave Spike an amused look. He tried not to look at her but her gaze burned into him.
She placed Spike into the palm of her hand and walked toward the woods. Spike said nothing as she carried him.
They stopped in the middle of the woods, it was pretty empty. Not completely, there were animals, just no ponies.
"What are we doing here?" Spike asked looking around.
The dragoness said nothing as she placed Spike down.
She moved several paces from the baby dragon in slow strides. When she finally stopped she stayed completely still, as did Spike. With a flick of the rear her tail flew into the bush.
There was a short cry of pain then silence. When she retracted her tail there was something on it.
His eyes narrowed in on the crimson stain on the dragoness' tail. Spike could smell it, the coppery tint in the air. He didn't need to be told what it was, instinct took care of it.
Blood.
He was drawn to it.
Spike hesitantly walk forward. He tried to fight it, but his body wasn't listening.
When he was within arms reach, the dragoness growled. This froze Spike's every muscle on the spot.
The dragoness waved the blood stained tail seductively in front of Spike's face. He could smell the warm liquid as it beckoned for him.
He wanted it so badly.
The dragoness brought her tail to her face and coiled her tongue around it. She washed the blood all off slowly forcing Spike use his self-restraint so he wouldn't lunge for a taste.
And to keep his spines down.
Spike made his way toward her. She eyed him as he eyed her muzzle, though they had different intents.
Spike began to lean in to her face, which was about the size of his body. The smell was too much for the baby dragon, he couldn't resist.
Hesitantly, he began to lick her maw. The taste of blood sent in into a familiar trance, he couldn't stop.
Soon the little blood that was left was gone, but Spike didn't stop. There was something else, something just as divine.
No, it was better.
It was her!
He could actually taste her. It was as if she was the core flavor to every gem he'd eaten. He didn't want to stop, just-
He wanted more!
That was the only way he could describe it.
"Careful hatch-ling." She spoke waking him up. "Don't start what you can't finish."
Spike was confused until he saw her motion to her back. Like him, her spines were standing up.
"Hungry?" she asked again getting a silent nod from Spike "Then eat."
Before Spike could ask what she was talking about, it came.
A bear, only half grown and angry. Spike saw blood pouring from it's shoulder as it glared in their direction.
"You want me to eat a bear?" Spike asked in disbelief "How, it's still alive!"
"Either it becomes your meal." she spoke "Or you become it's."
With nothing else to say the dragoness began to take to the sky. She was high enough for the bear to lose sight, but she could still see them. The bear gave the baby dragon a fierce roar before charging on all fours.
Before Spike could comprehend what was happening the bear struck. The blow was powerful on the baby dragon's small form. It sent him flying into a tree with a hard impact.
Even with his tough scales he was hurt, he was protected not invincible.
The bear took a second swing at Spike. It's claw grazed the scales on his neck knocking away the necklace.
Pain.
That's all Spike knew. It was the pain of his body transforming, again. His body seemed to explode into it's slightly larger form in mere seconds. For spike, it felt like hours.
When it was done he stood on all fours.
I should run! Was the though going through Spike's head.
But he didn't, he couldn't.
The bear had attacked him, hurt him. Spike couldn't-No, wouldn't allow such...disrespect. He was a dragon and a they took 'A burn for a burn literally'.
Spike glared at the wounded bear and roared. The bear backed away in fear, it seemed to know what it was up against.
A dragon.
But there was a chance.
Spike was small in height and size. At two legs, he would be equal to a mare like Fluttershy in height. If he were on all four, he'd be equal to a filly. This equaled to youth, which also equaled to inexperience.
The bear stood and gave another roar in an attempt to scare Spike.
It didn't work.
Spike charged forward and dug his claws into the bears hide. Using his momentum he continued on and pushed the bear into a tree.
Desperate, the bear struck Spike on the side of his head. This caught the dragon off guard giving the bear a chance to act. It raised itself to it's full height and brought it all down on Spike.
This knocked the dragon onto it's back exposing himself. The bear never stopped, it was on Spike in a second. It wrapped it's mouth over Spike's exposed neck and began to squeeze.
Thanks to Spike's scales the teeth did nothing to hurt the dragon. The power in the bear's mouth, however was causing Spike's throat to close, blocking all air.
Not. Like. This! Was all Spike could think.
Using his new claws, he grabbed the bears neck and squeezed. The bear was forced to release Spike as it's own breathing became difficult.
Spike took this chance to take a deep breath...
And release it.
The small red flames covered a large part of the bear's side. Thanks to Spike's claw, the bear could only endure it.
When Spike finished he released the bear. It fell into a painful heap and laid motionless. It was severely wounded but not dead, yet.
Spike moved in for the kill.
"Now that was a blaze!" the voice brought Spike back "I'm impressed hatch-ling." The dragoness landed on the ground near the wounded bear "Enjoy your meal, they taste better after you've hunted them yourself."
Spike looked at the beast in front of him. It was wounded, scared and trying to drag itself away. There was no more fight in it, a truly pitiful sight.
He wasn't hungry anymore. Now, he was only sick to his stomach.
"No." Spike mumbled "I'm... going home."
"You're just leaving?" she asked him before looking to the bear "You really should kill it."
Spike said nothing, he just turned away. He was searching for the necklace from Zecora on when he hear a squish like crunch.
Spike looked back and was horrified with the sight. The dragoness had crushed the bear's skull.
"Why?" Spike shouted in outrage and disgust.
"Death was the only option." she answered with a shake of her head.
"It was my prey!" Spike shouted "I let it live!"
"Exactly, you let it live." she spoke in a reasoning tone.
Spike couldn't understand how this dragoness could be so cold. When they had first met she had been... warmer.
"I'm not like you!" Spike stated."You're a monster!"
She only gave him an amused look.
"Well know this." She spoke mockingly "You're just as much of a monster as me."
"N-no..." Spike protested hastily "I chose mercy!" He pointed to the bear "You chose death."
"I watched you." She stated "Your heart was pounding as if were going to explode. Your blood boiled from the rush."She continued "Deep down, you enjoyed yourself."
"No..." Spike tried to deny.
But she told the truth.
"This bear would have tried to drag itself to safety." The dragoness spoke "The wounds would have gotten worse and infected." she wasn't finished "The bear would have died slowly and painfully." she raised her bloody claw "It was a mercy kill, no more suffering."
Spike was... beginning to understand her words, but he didn't like it.
"I have a friend." he spoke, more to himself than her "She takes care of animals, she could have helped him."
"How would you have explained the bear's wounds?" she asked "How would you explain why you were out here?" she gave him an amused look "Obviously you don't want them to know about me." Her words put Spike at a loss. "See, you'd have let it die just to keep this secret."
Spike was silent, he had no answer. Everything she had said was true.
"Eat." she ordered "You don't want this meal to go to waste."
He was tempted, the bear could have helped satiate the pain in his stomach. "...No" Spike answered, he just couldn't do it.
"What?" she was mildly shocked.
"You killed him, not me." he continued "I chose to give him a chance."
"...Fine." Spike was a little shocked that she had nothing more to say.
He ignored it and continued searching.
"Looking for this?" she asked holding his necklace.
When he reached for it she pulled away. She gazed at it with an intent Spike didn't like.
"This would make a fine addition to my hoard." she mused out loud.
Spike felt something inside him boil at her words. He didn't like them.
"It's mine!" Spike growled "Hand it over."
"No, I don't think I will."
Spike's body tensed as he tried to make himself look bigger. He gave a low growl of warning toward the dragoness. She simply stared at Spike with amusement in her eyes.
"Then I'll take it!" Spike shouted as he lunged
Spike had expected her to strike him. To burn him with fire or even claw at him. She did none of these, but she did react.
As Spike tackled her, she latched her claws around him. In a single sweep she knocked him to the ground. He tried to stand stopped with the dragoness pinning Spike under her with a single arm. I forgot how big she was.
"Pinned." She stated releasing him.
Spike usually wasn't shallow, prideful, but not shallow. However, he was a young boy, and to lose to a girl was embarrassing.
As he was standing up he noticed something, her back was turned.
Without so much as a warning, he tackled her, hoping she'd fell flat on to her back. The outcome was the same as the first, Spike pinned under a single clawed hand.
However, as the dragoness held Spike there was a difference. The dragoness added more pressure on Spike, hurting him.
"Pinned again." she stated "As advice hatch-ling, dragons do not attack each other with such cowardly tactics, we meet each other head on." Her eyes became cold "As a warning, I will kill you if you attack me like that again."
"I-I'm not scared." Spike was terrified, but he did his best not to show it.
"Impressive, but I know your scared." she stated taking a small sniff "I can smell the fear on you." she then added more pressure to his chest "And I feel your heart beating rapidly."
"Since you showed bravery I'll forgive you." she gave him a warning growl "This time."
The dragoness added a bit more pressure onto Spike's ribs before letting him up.
Before he could speak, something fell over his neck. He felt the familiar pain of his body shrinking. It was faster this time, but no less painful.
"W-why?" he asked groggily once he was a baby again "Why did you give it back?"
"You showed such determination to get it back." she answered "Like a dragon protecting his hoard, you had a real blaze."
There's that word again Spike thought.
The dragoness looked toward the sky, Spike followed her gaze. The sun was beginning to set.
How long have we been out here?
"Return to your so called life." She spoke "I will see you again."
Spike didn't say anything to her, he just left. He wanted to get home, eat a few gems and sleep.
When Spike finally returned to the library he relaxed, the day was finally over.
Spike tried to creep inside the library as silently as possible. Twilight would kill me for being out this late. He hadn't even come up with a good excuse.
As he finished making his way to the stairs he stopped. He listened through the door to hear Twilight, nothing.
Asleep he thought relieved.
He slowly pushed the door open, trying not to make a sound.
It had been several days since Spike last saw the dragoness. He had went straight to bed after eating a crystal.
He had tried to put the whole thing out of his mind. It wasn't as easy as he had hoped. His thoughts seemed to always wonder back to her.
Well, here's to a new day he thought dryly.
The baby dragon climbed out of his basket, scratching.
He went down stairs to see if Twilight was home. She was, reading a book on something that would have put Spike to sleep in seconds.
"Hey Twilight." he greeted.
"Hello Spike." she greeted without looking up "You slept pretty late, are you feeling okay?"
Spike looked out the window and saw that it was at least noon. How long was I out?
"I feel... fine." he answered "Just a little itchy."
"Well then go take a bath." Twilight advised "You could use one."
"Oh ha ha." Spike gave a sarcastic laugh. He couldn't deny that a nice hot bath would be nice.
After taking a nice and, scolding for ponies, long bath Spike was still itchy. He went through a whole bar of soap in the process, nothing helped.
Maybe if I use... he searched for a solution in his thoughts. Before he could come up with an idea, he was stopped by a scream. It was followed by the sound of something exploding and a second scream.
Oh no! He thought in a panic. He didn't think, he just ran.
He stopped in the library section of the house. He took one glimpse and instantly calmed down.
It was just Pinkie Pie. The rest of the mares were there but he had a feeling that whatever happened was Pinkie related.
"I heard a noise and scream." he answered "I just..."
"Ahh" Rarity cooed "You were coming to the rescue."
"Ha, you were going to be a hero?" Rainbow Dash mocked.
"I think it's sweet." Fluttershy whispered.
"Well we could use a hero." Rarity stated gaining Spike's attention "Opal won't come down."
"Down?" Spike asked as he looked up. On the ceiling was was the cat Opal, her claws were locked in deep. Spike looked straight at Pinkie Pie who gave him an innocent smile. "Why is there a cat on the ceiling?"
"There better question is." Pinkie began "How can we make it into a type of party?"
Always a party on her mind he thought. "Explanation please."
"Well I was bringing Opal over when Rainbow Dash" Rarity spat, glaring at the Pegasus "Decided to mess with her. This caused her to claw out making Rainbow Dash throw her into Pinkie's party canon." I knew it Spike thought "It shot her all the way to the ceiling and now she won't come down."
"She keeps resisting Rarity and I, so we can't use magic on her without hurting Opal." Twilight stated.
"Can't Rainbow Dash or Fluttershy bring her down?" Spike asked.
"I'm not going near that thing's claws." Rainbow stated.
"I don't...uh...well..." They decided to take that as a 'no'.
"How am I supposed to get up there?" He asked.
"Easy." Pinkie stated "The same way."
Before Spike could ask what she meant, the pink mare was on him. She had stuffed Spike into the party canon and too aim.
Why Pinkie? was the last though he had before she fired.
-Boom-
Spike was blown to the air with a lot of speed and power.
He should have been dizzy and disoriented from the blast. The momentum should have thrown his entire body out of his control. He should have been scared at the whole situation.
But he wasn't.
Everything felt... natural to him, being in the air.
Everything slowed down, in his mind at least. Outside it everything was just a blur.
Spike knew that if he continued at this pace he'd crash into the ceiling.
Then it happened, Spike felt his instincts.
The baby dragon raised both of his hands, claws extended. They raked across the ceiling before he clenched them, hitching his upper body. His lower body continued on swinging toward the ceiling. He locked his hind claws into the ceiling as well.
Spike removed one clawed hand and placed it forward, one of his legs copied. He repeated this process over and over, getting closer to the cat.
I'm coming for you he thought.
The cat saw him and seemed to read his mind.
Opal hissed loudly at Spike. Her fur stood up and her fangs bare.
When Spike was within reach he grabbed for the cat.
Opal raised one of her claws and swiped at the baby dragon. Her finely manicured claws raked across his scales. They didn't even leave a mark on him.
Spike latched his hand around the cat's neck. He gave it a small squeeze forcing the car to release the ceiling and thrash around. Not one claw swipe made the baby dragon even flinch.
"That's good Spike." Twilight stated unaware of Opal's state. "Now just hold her and we'll lower you down."
As soon as he heard those words, Spike released his claws. Not the one holding the cat, just the other three.
"SPIKE!" The mares shouted.
The baby dragon fell to the ground, landing feet first. He stood right side up, as if he didn't fall from a two story height.
The mares stared at Spike, mouth agape.
Pinkie Pie was the first to recover. "And he sticks the landing!" She shouted holding a '10' sign.
"What?" Rainbow asked outraged "That was clearly an six at best."
"Now sugar cube, he earned top score." Applejack spoke trying to calm the Pegasus "He was the only one to get that cat."
"I could have done it in ten seconds flat."
"But you didn't darling." Rarity spoke "Spike-Wikey did."
The white Unicorn made to retrieve her cat when she noticed something. Spike was squeezing Opal pretty hard and even ignored the scratches she was giving him. The look he was giving her cat didn't make her feel any better.
"S-Spike." she called, when he didn't react she tried again. He seemed to shake out of some kind of trance. "Are you okay?"
"F-fine." Spike answered
He tried to hand Opal to Rarity, only for the cat to scratch her. The cat's claw didn't leave any serious damage to Rarity, but there was still damage. The scratch was shallow but long and dripping a bit of blood. It was plainly visible through her perfect white coat.
Spike both lost and gained focus.
He lost focus as he dropped the cat and let it scurry off. He no longer noticed his irritating itch. He no longer noticed the other mares in the room.
All he noticed was Rarity. To be more specific, her wound. There was nothing else to him. Nothing else but his hunger.
Spike grabbed her hoof and brought it to his face. He tongue snaked out around the cut.
The first drop touched his tongue. It was so much like the Diamond dog's but different. The only way he could describe it was exquisite, just like the mare it seeped from.
Even her blood is amazing Was the only focused thought he could muster.
For Rarity, it took only a second to register what happened.
"SPIKE!" She shouted in disgust "You're licking me."
Spike didn't seem to hear the distraught mare. He felt Rarity try to pull her delicate hoof but Spike's grip was too strong. He just continued to lick her fresh cut.
He wanted to stop, he knew he had to. But he couldn't, he just couldn't. Finally the dripping stopped, but it wasn't enough. His throat was burning and his stomach was empty. He needed more, to satisfy his thirst and hunger. He needed to...
No.
He couldn't.
Not to her, not to Rarity.
Spike used will power he never knew he had. He gently released his grip on the mares foreleg.
"Spike, what the hay were you doing?"
Spike looked at the mares surrounding him. They were each giving him a stare that demanded answered.
Come on Spike think fast He needed a way out.
"I was licking her wound." Spike answered on the spot "It's supposed to keep the wound clean until it's bandaged."
"Where did you learn that?"
"In a book." Spike answered.
"Well that's... nice and all." Rarity spoke in a strained tone "But please, next time, just use... something that doesn't involve... spit." The words seemed to be sour on her tongue.
"Sorry." Spike apologized.
"It's quite alright deary." Rarity assured him "You were just looking out for my health."
It took all of Spike's will not to look away in shame. He had in fact, been thinking about the opposite of her health.
As the beautiful mare leaned in to kiss Spike she noticed something. It caused her to turn away and blush. She was not the only one who noticed.
"Oh... my..." Fluttershy mumbled timidly.
"Bwahahaha" Rainbow Dash didn't even try to hide her laughter.
Oh no, not now! Spike prayed it wasn't happening, but his prayer wasn't enough.
"Ain't nothing to be embarrassed about sugar cube." Applejack tried to assure. "It's just that y're growing up."
"I-It's quite alright Twilight" Rarity spoke trying to suppress her blush "As Applejack said, he's growing up." She sent Rainbow Dash a glare "Something that comes with maturity."
"I can be mature!" Rainbow snapped.
"Yeah, f'er ten seconds flat" Applejack added.
"Exac-Hey!"Rainbow quipped. "For get it, maturity smaturity."
"Ooh, are we having a rhyming contest?" Pinkie asked.
Spike took this moment of their distraction to leave.
I can't believe it! He roared in his head. Of all the things! Of all the times! And to Rarity! He truly felt it was truly one of his worse experiences.
"Hello young Spike." A familiar voice spoke "Still pretending to be a tyke."
"Zecora?" He was shocked to see the zebra out of the forest "What are you doing here?"
"I was on a long walk." she answered "But I fear we should have a long talk."
What does she want to talk about He thought to himself already having an idea. "Okay."
They walked for quite a bit. Well Zecora walked, Spike was sitting on her back. When she finally stopped, they were inside a forest. Thankfully it wasn't the Everfree forest. She sat the baby dragon down and looked him in the eyes.
"You did not heed my warning of the coming storm." she spoke "Now the beast in you can take form."
"What?" Spike didn't like what he was hearing.
Zecora pointed to the necklace. For the first time Spike noticed a crack in it. What in the hay? He knew for certain that it wasn't there at first.
"Inside you the beast waits." she continued "Before it comes, your inner darkness we must sate."
"Please" Spike moaned "Make it simpler."
Spike shrunk under the glare Zecora gave him before speaking. "You have an inner beast." she started "We must let it out to feast."
"W-what, why!?" He asked in fear. He never wanted to lose control of himself, not like last time.
"If it frees itself through your anger." she gestured around "Many lives will be in danger."
"What do you mean anger?" Spike never saw himself as angry.
"You saw what greed did to you." She stated causing him to look away in shame "Imagine what rage will do."
"There is no way that's happening." Spike stated firmly "I'm never taking this thing off, so every pony's safe, right?"
"You are a misguided dimwit." Zecora snapped "You will simply push the medallion to it's limit." She then gave an annoyed sigh "I guess I am the one who started this." she continued. "There is only one fix."
"What are you..."
Quicker than Spike could act the Zebra snatched the necklace from Spike's neck. For a second it felt as if Spike's mind went blank. When it restarted Zecora was gone. For some unknown reason Spike thought of Pinkie Pie.
Then it began.
Spike fell to his knees in intense pain. This is worse than I remember. He thought.
Spike was in agony, his body twisting and changing into a different form. His claws, no longer dull, sprang forward sharper than razor. The bones cracking and muscle shifting. His skull stretched as his teeth elongated. His body throbbed in agony as if grew.
Even then it was there.
Under his agony, in his very body, it was there.
The raw, intense power.
But it wasn't his.
There was something else there.
It was completely savage to the baby dragon. It was also very familiar. He felt it once during his greed growth, and again when he tasted flesh.
It was in control.
It looked nearly the same as Spike, minus one difference.
The eyes.
While Spike's eyes were a dark emerald green. IT's eyes were an electric green that actually seemed to glow. Spike's feline like pupils usually took up most of his eyes. These were like pinpricks of a focused glare. Usually they were full of innocence, but now they were full of one thing and one thing only.
Hunger.
That was what it felt, an intense hunger. It needed to eat. No more pony food. It thought. It needed a dragons meal.
No more of that stuff that he- No, Spike ate. Spike was practically a pony.
IT was a dragon.
The dragon looked back toward the pony filled town. Mouth water in anticipation, he took a step forward...
NO! The dragon fell back grabbing it's head in pain.
It could feel it.
The pony side of him was still there. It was fighting, trying to escape.
No, I'm in control! It roared in it's mind.
It tried, it tried to fight against the pony. The one called Spike was clawing at it's mind. Trying to stop him from eating the ponies. Trying to take control of the body.
No! It thought This body is mine!
The pony side was finally pushed down, for now. It had to get away from the town. That was how he lost during the greed growth. He knew his weaker half would fight to then end for those ponies.
That's the only thing dragon about that half. It thought bitterly
This time would be different. Those ponies wouldn't stop him, not even the white one. He would take her as well.
NO! The pained started again.
He had to leave.
Had to keep control.
Had to get rid of this hunger.
It just as suspected. The dragon didn't care about the direction, just distance. Why? The further from the town, the weaker Spike fought.
The dragon stopped, something jogged a memory IT and Spike shared.
The one of the few time when the two became one. It was when Spike felt the call of his true nature. The instincts of a dragon.
Those instincts were telling him something important.
If only he could place his claws on...
IT realized what it was!
There's a hoard near by!
IT was already off, down a familiar path.
He had arrived to an empty dragon's den. Well, it wasn't completely empty. There was a MASSIVE hoard of gems just lying around.
Just here for the taking. He thought as he intended to do just that. Mine!
As the dragon started enjoying the gems it noticed something. There was a familiar surge rushing through his body. It wasn't one of pain, it was of pleasure and power. It was one of the things that made it so addicting. It was the greed growth.
As he grew he had only one thought. More!
When it was finally over, he was disappointed. Like always it felt as if the growth ended too fast.
Something's wrong. The dragon thought.
With the size of the hoard he took, he should be bigger. He should be as tall as he was when he grabbed Rarity. The size he was now equaled the pony called Big Mac. He wasn't even as big as the dragoness.
It makes no sense.
No matter IT thought as IT enjoyed another crystal.
IT would reach the adult size IT wanted in time. Just as he would learn to use the wings on his back.
He enjoyed crystal after crystal, feeling his hunger lesson. Suddenly he stopped in mid-bite. No, something stopped him.
A sound.
A growl.
He turned to the entrance of the cave and saw the cause. It was the dragoness, she was obviously unhappy.
Too bad. IT thought.
"Once chance." she growled "LEAVE!"
She no longer had the calm but mischievousness feel to her. Even the amused look in her eyes were gone. Now there was only an primal, hate filled glare.
The dragon looked at her in amusement. She was angry enough to challenge him, a dragon. She may be a dragon, but she was also female. He was a male, the outcome was obvious.
She'll make a fine addition to my hoard. IT thought. As he did he never noticed his spines start to stand. The female dragon however did, she was not pleased.
"You think you can claim me?" she asked in a cold tone.
The dragon said nothing as IT ate another crystal.
"So be it." she growled
The dragon attacked with no warning. He dived forward in a powerful lunge intent to maim.
The female simply grabbed the dragon by the wrist and held him back. It was a simple power struggle between the two. Unfortunately the female was older, bigger, stronger.
The dragon was slowly being pushed back.
"You attack without giving your name?" she asked in disappointment "Where is your pride?" The dragon said nothing, he just snapped and snarled. "You can't talk, can you?" she asked as she looked into IT's eyes "You're just a wild beast."
She released the dragon causing him to stumble before she struck him. The blow wasn't her claws, but the back of her hand. It knocked the male back, exposing and leaving him vulnerable.
She wrapped her tail around his waist and squeezed. The amount of pressure shocked the dragon, but he was unable to do anything. She simply tossed him out of her cave.
He tried to straighten himself but was struck again. This time by her tail, the blow sent him sailing into a tree.
Hurt and wounded the dragon opened his eyes. What he saw was the female diving toward him from above. He barely made it to his feet and away before she crushed him.
He tried to charge her but was knocked aside again.
He was quickly to his feet and went in again. Instead of knocking him away she jumped over him. This caused him to overshoot and fall over himself.
When he stood and turned back to the dragoness, she was there. She stood over him, her face mere inches from his.
Now that she was so close he could see that she was still larger than him. At least four time bigger or more, he was sure it was much more.
She smiled with her usual amused look.
She's toying with me! IT realized angrily.
He took a swipe at her face with his sharpened claws. She simply stepped out of reach. He took a second swipe but she didn't dodge this one. She caught it in her teeth.
With a simple twist of her neck she slammed him into the ground. With another twist, she through him high into the air.
When he reached the peak of his height gravity kicked in. The average dragon would have flown or righted itself for landing. The dragon could do none of these.
She watched as he fell and landed like a rock.
He tried to stand but he was in too much pain. When he finally did, he wished he had staid down. Every part of him ached with pain he never experienced.
Need to leave. IT thought painfully.
She began approaching him slowly, painfully slowly. There was no reason to her to rush. She was in full health while he was on his last leg.
It showed how out classed he truly was.
"No...get...away." he rasped.
"I gave you a chance." she growled. "Now accept your death like a dragon."
Death! Now he was afraid. This isn't right, I'm a dragon!
So is she. The pony side spoke A bigger, older and stronger one. The pony continued. She's coming, she's coming for you.
"NO...please." IT begged.
"You...beg!?" she asked in disgust. "Weak!"
"I...want to...live."
"You came into my den, ate my gems." She roared "You intended to claim me!" She continued "Why shouldn't I kill you?"
"I... want to live." he repeated.
She stared at the groveling beast in front of her. With speed that he couldn't follow, she struck him with her tail. The blow knocked him off his last leg and into the dirt.
Instead of getting back up, he curled into a ball trying to protect himself. If she was disgusted before she was completely revolted now.
"Get up." She ordered "Fight back. Do something, anything! You're a dragon aren't you?" He did nothing but whimper and try to make himself smaller. "You aren't one are you?" she asked "Your just a greedy and cowardly lizard."
With nothing else to say to the whimpering dragon, she moved on. To her, he wasn't even worth acknowledging.
"I won't waste my time with you." She spoke "Leave."
She didn't turn to see if he had heard her, she knew he had. There was no fear that he would attack her from behind. There was just disappointment.
The dragon could practically hear the pony side laughing.
He had fled, like a coward. I didn't even put up a good fight. He didn't feel like a dragon, he felt like a toothless worm.
Now that he had loss his size had decreased back to original height. His wings were smaller and still useless. Even his hunger had returned, then again it was never gone.
I need to eat. He thought bitterly. The gems were delicious but not what he needed, IT needed meat.
He looked around for anything that could fit that description. All he saw were countless apple trees.
Wait, apples...Something about them were drawing back pony memories. Apples...Apples...Apple...Jack...APPLEJACK!
She was a pony.
She was meat.
She was food.
She's mine!
Sweet Apple Acres, it was homes to one of those six ponies. He could feel his weaker half putting up a fight for her, though it wasn't as strong as before. He let out a cruel chuckle, it would make it all the sweeter.
The dragon was moving silently through the open paths on the farm. He could see the trail that led to his prey. He smelt them, a mixture of apples and sweat.
They're here. He thought hungrily.
He could see the ponies working on the trees. There were two of them, an orange one and a red one.
He could take them, both of them.
NO! Apart of him knew these ponies, they wouldn't go down easily. He needed to be smart about this.
If not, it would be just like with the female dragon.
At the thought of her his cold blood began to boil. He could feel the anger building in his chest, growing hotter and hotter. It was begging to be released, but not yet.
He had to wait, and he could.
"Applejack, can you check on the apples in the barn?" Big Mac asked as he prepared to leave "I'm going to go set the stall up in town."
He watched as the orange mare trotted toward the barn. A barn with closed window and only one exit.
Too easy. The dragon thought.
Slowly, slowly and quietly he made his way to the barn.
The dragon had entered the barn behind the farm pony. He had showed stealth one of an expert predator locked in on it's prey.
Applejack never noticed him enter the barn.
She did notice him close the barn door. Well, not him specifically. She did notice the door shut and the only source of light go out.
"Tarnation!" She exclaimed turning to the dark figure "Big Mac, is that you?"
She couldn't see too well in the sudden darkness. Spike however, could see her.
As quietly as ever he moved around behind her. He watched as she stumbled around calling for a pony that wasn't there.
"Applebloom, if this is your attempt at getting a ninja cutie mark again..." she began, but never finished.
Spike had chose that moment to attack his prey.
IT lunged onto her back and snaked his claws around her neck. They constricted tightly enough to stop both her breath and voice. With a strong tug he pulled her off balance so she was helpless.
The mare struggled with all her might against the claws. It was pointless in the end. The muscle in Spike's claws were enough to stop even Applejack.
Soon the mare was blacking out from lack of air.
IT was winning.
IT was beating her with ease.
This is how it should be! IT cried triumphantly. Me on top as nature intended.
IT looked at her helpless form. IT's claws had dug into her neck drawing blood. It tried to savor the smell but couldn't resist.
Time to eat. IT thought as he felt her squirm under her sharp teeth.
"Applejack." A voice called from outside the barn.
"A-A-Applebloom..." She croaked, but it went unheard by the filly.
"Applejack are y'all in there?" The filly asked "Ah want'a ask if ah could go with the crusaders." Applebloom waited for a response but got none. "Applejack?"
Another one. The dragon thought making his way to the door.
He stood there waiting for the filly. Applejack still couldn't see too well but understood what was happening. The intruder was at the door near Applebloom, her sister.
The filly tried to open the barn door but was stopped by a shout.
"STOP!" She shouted, unsure of to who. "DON'T OPEN THE DOOR!" Applejack shouted. It had taken every ounce of energy for the mare to force those words out. "D-don't...open the...d-d-door."
"A-Applejack?" the filly ask worried "Is everything okay?"
"Fine sugercube." Applejack lied "Go on an play."
"Are you sure?" Applebloom could tell when her sister was telling a lie without even seeing her. "Ah could g..."
"Just go play!" Applejack snapped.
Applebloom was no fool, she knew something was wrong "A'M GOING TO GET BIG MAC!" She shouted sprinting off.
The dragon made for the door but was stopped by a hoof on his tail. He looked back to see Applejack glaring at him. IT was about to act when she spoke.
"A'm her sister." Applejack hissed silently "She ma'h responsibility." she glared at the savage green eyes. "Y'all want to eat some pony,You. Eat. Me."
The dragon looked at the pony in shock. This pony didn't fear him or death, just for her sister. IT was brought down to a whimpering husk, yet she stood tall.
This made the dragon angry.
She stood defiantly to him like the cat, the dragoness and Rari-
Rarity...
If she saw him now she wouldn't love him. She would hate him, or worse, fear him. He didn't want her to fear him, just love him.
WHAT AM I DOING? He asked himself, he needed to leave.
Spike looked at the mare in front of him. She was standing tall with her eyes closed ready for death.
When the mare opened her eyes, she would fine that she was alone.
Spike ran through the the woods a fast as his new leg could carry him. It turned out that it was pretty fast, faster than he ever was.
He had reached his destination.
Zecora's hut.
Spike didn't waste any time in knocking. He simply pushed the door open and stepped inside.
The first thing Spike noticed were all the things that Zecora owned. They had all been his at a point.They could be ag- No, I'm only here for one thing! He needed to control himself.
"Hello Spike, how's your greed?" A voice asked from his side "I hope you satisfied your need."
"Where is it?" Spike asked.
Zecora knew what he meant. That only meant he hadn't succeeded in the plan.
"Spike you fool." She spoke "You'll only break the tool."
"Zecora." Spike spoke in a low tone "I am very hungry."
The zebra stared at the former baby dragon. His message to her was clear. One way or another, Spike was going to get what he wanted.
Zecora retrieved the necklace and gave it to him.
She then turned her back to him. Her message was just as clear. He was no longer welcomed in her home.
Time to go home. He thought.
-Crack- Another chip off.
"SPIKE!" An energetic purple mare shouted "I HAVE GREAT KNEWS!"
"Can't it wait?" Spike asked "I'm tired."
"No time for you to be a lazy dragon." Twilight stated "I need my number one assistant."
Her comment struck a nerve in Spike."Lazy?" He asked "I'm only tired from cleaning another of your messes."
It's true, as soon as he had returned she put him to work. She hadn't asked about him or even his injuries. He actually wondered if she noticed them.
"Enough Spike!" Twilight snapped, loosing her happy demeanor "It's your job, now are you going to help me?"
There were many things that Spike wanted to say. Many unkind and hurtful things, but he didn't. He simply got out of his basket.
"What's the spell?" He asked.
Twilight nearly squealed in delight as she explained. "It's a spell the allows me to change the shape of a living thing."
"What, no!" Spike exclaimed "I'm not letting you change me!"
"Oh relax." Twilight ordered "What could go wrong?"
"A lot." Spike answered "Change somepony else, like Owlicious."
"Spike, you know Owlilcious isn't magic resistant." Twilight stated.
"...What?"
"That's why I always use you." Twilight continued not noticing his disbelief "Since you're a dragon, you are resistant to magic. It helps make my magic even stronger." Her horn began to glow "Now hold still so I can concentrate."
Spike couldn't believe what he was hearing. It brought back a statement from an encounter he wanted to forget.
"The purple one has used you for labor." The dragoness stated.
"She...I...I'm her assistant!" He reasoned.
"So is the owl." She countered "Does the Unicorn use it for her magical experiments."
"...No."
-Crack- Another chip off.
"Okay Spike, hold still."
"No." Spike stated.
"What?"
"I said no, I'm not letting you change me."
Twilight could only stare at the baby dragon in disbelief. She'd always used him for her experiments, why was now any different.
Why is he being so difficult? She asked herself Is he upset about the books? She admitted there had been a bit of them, But it was necessary for my studies.
"Spike you're my number one assistant." She stated sweetly "I can't do this without you."
Any other time this would have worked on Spike. It would have made him feel happy.
Feel needed.
"No." He stated firmly.
But not now.
He wouldn't fall for her tricks.
"Why are you being difficult?" Twilight asked "You're my assistant and..."
"That's right!" He spoke cutting her off "Your assistant!" He emphasized "I am supposed to assist you in your studies in friendship. Not be some guinea pig for your experiments."
"But..."
"I AM NOT A GUINEA PIG!"
"Fine!" Twilight yelled "Then assist me by making me breakfast for my study session!" She ordered "Or is that too much to ask?"
Spike had felt that he hadn't handled the situation as well as he could have. To make up for it, he decided to make Twilight's favorite dish.
A few dandelion sandwiches on wheat. A warm cup of tea. A large apple on the side. And for desert, a tray of cookies.
"Are you finished yet?" Twilight asked rudely "I began studying awhile ago."
Spike decided to ignore the rude comment as he brought the tray in. It would do no good to restart an argument.
As he entered the room, he began looking around. It was starting to look like a study session. That meant book lying everywhere.
"Here you go." Spike presented the food.
"Finally, I thought you might have needed me to assist you."
Just push it aside Spike He told himself.
"Here, your favorites." Spike stated.
Without so much as a 'thank you', the mare began eating. Spike sat down and began chewing on a sapphire when Twilight gave a cough.
"What?" He asked.
"Don't you have some work to be doing?" She asked motioning to the book.
"What?" He asked again.
"Spike!" Twilight shouted "This is unacceptable."
"What?" He asked with more force.
"Just look at this!" She motioned to the room.
Spike looked to were she was motioning and only saw one thing.
"Books?" Spike asked "What about them?"
"They're on the floor Spike." She stated as if it were obvious "Books don't belong on the floor."
Then why did you put them there? He asked inside his mind. "...I'll get right on that." He stated as he began eating again.
"Now Spike!" She ordered as she levitated a scroll to the baby. "Afterwards I have a list of things for you to do."
Spike looked at the list.
Re-shelve books.
Prepare lunch.
Feed Owlilcious.
Do dishes.
Dust books.
Reorganize books.
Wipe floors.
Organize scrolls.
The list went on.
"What will you be doing?" Spike asked.
"Studying of course." She stated never looking from her book.
"I can't do all this on my own!"
"Spike!" She snapped "Stop being a lazy dragon!"
-Crack- Another chip off.
That's it. That's it! THAT'S IT!
It was the straw that broke the camal's back.
"Lazy, you're actually calling me lazy!" Spike asked in a tone full of venom. "I do just about all the work around here!"
Spike..." Twilight felt she may have gone too far.
"I cook for you, I clean for you, buck I even cook for your friends!" Spike screamed "I even take care of your bucking owl!"
"T-Their your friends too." She stated trying to grasp for straws.
"No, they're your friends." Spike stated in a low tone.
"Spik..."
"They invite you to their parties while I am left running the library." Spike screamed again "Sometimes for days while you six have some adventure."
"T-Those are important!"
"Afterwards you just use me to send your precious friendship reports and put me back to work!"
"Well I..."
"I do all of this without so much as a bucking 'Thank you'!"
"Well...WHY SHOULD I THANK YOU FOR DOING YOUR JOB!?" The mare half asked half screamed.
"Job, THIS IS NOT A JOB!" He retorted. "A JOB PAYS THE EMPLOYEE! A JOB GIVES RESPECT! A JOB ISN'T FORCED ON YOU!"
"Spike..."
"Is it my job to snap you out of your obsessions?" He asked "Was it my job to help you socialize?" He answered for her "No, but I did anyway."
"Then why do anything?" Twilight asked back.
Spike went quit for a moment and Twilight felt she won. "I ask myself that a lot."
Twilight looked expectantly at the baby dragon. "And the answer is?"
"...I still don't know."
"Well then...FINE!" Twilight snapped. "I don't need an ungrateful assistant!"
The unicorn's horn began to glow showing off her magic. It connected to a stick with a cloth at the end. It was the same one Spike had used when he ran away.
This time she was handing it over to him.
"...Fine."
Twilight was shocked at what Spike did next.
The baby dragon started making his way toward the door in a rage. He did not so much as look back when he reached it. He began opening the door when Twilight spoke.
"What are you doing?" The mare asked. Spike can't leave, he loves it here too much. She was sure of it after it was revealed to be his worst fear in the King Sombra's dark magic.
"I'm leaving." He stated. "No need to keep an ungrateful assistant, right?"
The tone in Spike's voice made her flinch, but she wasn't going to give in. "Where are you going to go?" She asks "One of your friends." She took a breath in as if realization struck "Oh that's right, They are MY friends."
Twilight had hoped that her statement would make him stop. It only fueled the dragon's flame.
"I'll be fine." He stated heading out of the door.
"You can't leave, y-you're just a baby dragon."
Spike turned and cast a final glare at the Unicorn. It was so strong t made her recoil.
"I AM NOT HELPLESS!" He screamed "I can get a job somewhere else or just live in nature." He stated "I've taken care of myself and you too often to be helpless."
"Spike...y-you stop right now!"
The baby dragon kept going.
"FINE!" The mare screamed.
Stupid Twilight thinking I can't take care of myself. The baby dragon mentally raged. I'm the one who takes care of the both of us!.
As the baby dragon angrily walked down the street, he was stopped by an energetic pink pony.
"Hi Spike." A sugar crazed mare greeted.
"Hi Pinkie." He returned.
As the mare began babbling, he never noticed an up coming cloud. One being controlled by a cyan Pegasus.
While she continued to distract Spike, he had one thing on his mind about her. Why is she talking to me, we barely talk. He thought. Whenever we do it's when Rainb-
His thoughts were interrupted by a crack of lighting striking behind him. It was so close that Spike thought it had hit him. He was too scared to even move or scream.
"Oh come on!" Rainbow Dash complained "That should have made him jump out of his scales!"
"Of course." Spike groaned looking at Pinkie "Why else would you have anything to do with me?"
The dragon began walking away leaving two confused mares. Or at least he would have if the mares hadn't been so persistent.
"Hey were are you going?" Pinkie asked "Is Twilight sending you on an errand?"
"You know, I might just be going to do something on my own." Spike stated. Not everything I do revolves around Twilight.
"Right, and I'm not the greatest flyer in Equestria." Rainbow stated with a laugh.
"You aren't." Spike stated.
"What!?"
"That title belongs to Spitfire, Captain of the Wonderbolts." Spike stated "The group of the current best."
"One that I'll soon be in and running in..."
"10 seconds flat." Spike had enough of this "Goodbye."
"Wait, where are you going?" Pinkie asked "The only thing that way are woods."
"...I'm just going for... a bit of a... walk." Spike said with little conviction.
Pinkie Pie saw that he was lying but decided not to push on it. After all, it was none of her business. Rainbow saw this as well but had a different opinion.
"You're lying." She stated. "What are you hiding."
"Nothing." Spike said as he continued walking.
Or at least he would have if Pinkie and Rainbow weren't in his way.
"Ooh, is it a secret?" Pinkie asked "You can tell me, unless you Pinkie promised."
"Come on Spike, just tell us." Rainbow pushed "Are you going to meet some-pony?" A thought occurred "Or is it some Zebra?"
-Crack- Another chip off.
Spike became a little depressed when he answered "No, I don't think she'll welcome a visit from me."
Spike was still upset over that.
"What about Rarity?" Pinkie asked.
Rarity He thought Lady Rarity "I think I will pay her a visit." Spike spoke "Maybe I can offer my assistance."
"What, Twilight not giving you enough chores around the library?" Rainbow joked.
Spike's reaction was the last one she had expected. He growled at her! It was a deep growl that caused his whole body to vibrate.
"I'm done with that pony." Spike snarled.
"What's wrong Spike?" Pinkie asked "Is some pony grumpy because he missed his nap?"
-Crack- Another chip off.
"I. AM. NOT. A. PONY!" Spike shouted. "I'M A BUCKING DRAGON!" He glared at the ponies "AND I'D LIKE TO LIVE MY LIFE WITH A DECENT BLAZE!"
In the Everfree forest there was a hut. Inside the hut was a zebra. The zebra was busy with her work. Using magic not even the Unicorns were familiar with.
With potions instead of spells, she mixed her cauldron. Inside was the image of a dragon, one with purple and green scales. A second image formed, one of a female dragon, it faded as soon as it arrived.
It was enough for the zebra.
Zecora was using the magic to keep an eye on Spike. She felt that she had a duty to him. It was her that gave him the necklace.
It was a foolish thing for her to do. To give a scared child a magical object in a time of confusion! One that pushed back his very nature for the sake of acceptance. It was a foolish thing indeed.
Now she was watching the outcome, the magic had reached it's limit.
"I must make hast." She stated "I have not a time to waste."
With nothing more than her cloak, she made her way to the beast.
Spike watched as the final piece of the necklace fell. As it did, he felt the magic leave with it, along with his control.
It didn't all go at once, he felt the last bit of magic held in the necklace's chain.
The pain returned. It was as strong as ever, it forced him into a convulsing fetal position. It started all along his back before covering his body, but mostly his back. He understood exactly what was happening. His body was fighting against the last bit of magic the necklace had.
"Spike." Pinkie spoke. "Are you okey dokey?"
The beast looked at her. Part of it recognized her as a friend. Another recognized her as meat. The last part recognized her as a pony that humiliated him.
Pony, he hated ponies!
Except one, there was one pony that he wanted. The one that was and would always be the top gem of his hoard. Rarity.
The thought eased the pain in his body, only slightly. There was a sudden surge of energy that moved through his being. The power of greed was helping his body fight the zebra magic.
He reached for the necklace only to pause.
Should I remove the necklace?
Of course you should! A darker part answered Be free!
But ponies might be hurt!
Not might, they will!
The two struggled for control.
Spike was zoned out in his mind, but his body was all instinct. It had the craving all beasts shared, hunger.
He hadn't attacked any pony. Why, because he was too distracted to do so. Even with the pain of hunger in his stomach, there was something just as annoying. -BUZZ
It was the buzzing sound. He had been hearing it all day. Not even the pain hunger or the transformation could drown it out.
"Spike, don't you hear her calling?!" Zecora shouted to the beast "Will you leave her in longing?!
"The buzzing!" He rasped."Make it stop!"
"I can not." Zecora sighed "But she can do a lot."
Spike looked at the zebra before him. Something told him he should eat her, at least part of his problems would be solved. He decided not to listen to his instinct.
He turned away and walked. The walking soon turning into running. The running gave way into sprinting on all fours.
He didn't need directions, instinct told him where to go.
Spike made it to a stream, the one in his former haven.
He could see the female dragon in it. She was calmly washing herself with a relaxed sigh.
He watched the dragoness before him. She was the one who stole his territory, beat him and then spared him.
He could see her muscles rippling underneath her scaled body. She was obviously more powerful and experienced then he was.
It made him wonder why he thought he could claim her the first time. Or why a voice was telling him to try again.
"I know you're there mammal." She suddenly spoke.
Spike looked around, trying to find the mammal. All he saw were bushes and her.
"You." She spoke "The one that wears scales."
"I'm not a mammal." Spike spoke "I'm a dra-"
"YOU ARE NO DRAGON!" She roared, never looking at him. "You may mascaraed as one, but you're just a scared, toothless worm."
"You're right, I'm scared." Spike's mind was starting to go fuzzy the longer he talked to her. "I'm scared of you, of my kind."
She turned to look at Spike "You fear me?"
"Yes."
"You should." She stated "I could crush you like an egg."
"I'm not afraid of dying." Spike stated.
After living with the Element of Magic, he learned how dangerous magic could be. It became even worse when he, even rarely, got caught up in their adventures. It wasn't all sunshine, you had to cope.
Or break it.
No!
Being near her wasn't helping him gain control, he was losing it! He was beginning to lose the little control he had!
Spike felt it, the moment he lost control. A burning wind through his very being. Suddenly he got the taste of it again, back before his pony half took control.
Back with his greed.
That cocky swagger. That total confidence. That stupid, blind arrogance. That sense of being totally in control of his life, his destiny.
To be indestructible.
"What are you afraid of?" She asked.
He answered, an answer both sides of him agreed on.
"Loss of control!" He roared.
Spike gave no warning for his next action. He had no reason for it either, minus his own personal feelings.
He attacked.
Spike lunged at the female dragon with all his might. She raised a claw and knocked him backwards with a single swipe. Luckily, he landed on his feet.
Even in his feral state, Spike could see their size difference. It was roughly the same as putting Applebloom against Bigmac, minus the claws.
That didn't deter him in the slightest.
"Loss of something you never had." She scoffed. "Ridiculous."
Spike said nothing, he just roared.
His cheeks inflated as he began building his fire. In a single breath, he released two balls of fire. The dragoness simply took the fireballs without batting an eye.
She began moving towards Spike at a speed something her size shouldn't manage. With an outstretched claw, she grabbed Spike by his neck and continued charging.
With her new momentum, she threw the younger dragon through a tree.
Spike raised himself and shook his head. Even his armored hide couldn't take blows like this and not feel them.
He saw the tree that he knocked over and smiled. With his new strength, he hefted it high over his head. With great aim, he sent the tree hurtling at the dragoness.
She swatted it away with a single flap of her wing.
Only to see Spike himself flying behind it. He had took the distraction to lung at her.
Only to be caught by in her tail iron grip.
"ENOUGH!" She roared.
She held him down with her tail and raised both her claws high over head. Without the slightest bit of restraint, she brought her powerful arms down onto him.
Spike body rattled under her might. The very ground cracked and caved under the pressure.
And Spike knew no more.
"Ugh, what happened?" Spike asked himself as he awoke. His entire body was wracked with pain.
"You attacked me." A voice answered.
Like a bad nightmare, everything came back to him. The argument, his loss of control, the fight.
Spike was up onto his feet in no time and turned to the dragoness.
She was laying on her belly, in a relaxed manner. Only a single and lazy eye was on Spike.
"Don't bother trying to fight." She spoke. "I am beyond you."
Spike knew it was true, she had proven it to him twice. She was bigger, stronger and more experienced then he was.
But it didn't mean he would just give in.
"Will you...leave me alone?" He asked.
"When you do the same to me." She replied.
Spike was confused at her statement until he took a look at himself. He was on all fours like an animal, watching and ready to pounce. His body was tensed and even his useless wings were flared. He was shocked to hear himself releasing a deep growl from within. There was also the sight of his flames flashing in his mouth.
Slowly, he relaxed his body.
"Better." She stated.
"Why?" He asked. "Why didn't you kill me?"
"Come with me." She ordered.
Spike followed the dragoness, making sure to stay a certain distance away. He followed her into her cave.
As soon as he stepped in, he felt off. He could feel the entire place tell him that it belonged to another.
He could also feel her hoard.
"Do you see that there?" She asked, breaking his trance.
Spike looked towards the direction she was aiming. There was a spot, separate from the gems and crystals.
A pedestal.
On it was a giant rock. It was a smooth oval without any kind of visible flaw. It was purple, the same specific shade as Spike was. It had green spots covering it, also the same color as Spike.
"What is it?" Spike asked.
The dragoness continued staring at the pedestal before answering.
"It's my son." She spoke softly. "My son that will never be."
Now Spike understood what he was seeing. It wasn't a rock at all, it was an egg.
"Time has turned it to stone." She stated. "And me as well."
An egg to a dragon, male or female, was the most important thing. It was more valued to them than even a thousand hoards. To lose it was to lose a part of themselves.
"W-what do you want from me?" He asked, fearing the answer.
"Hear my cry, my eyes are burning and my heart is ice." She suddenly spoke. "My time is full of sorrow and emptiness." She moved to Spike and looked him in the eyes "Hear my cry, cool my eyes and warm my heart." She began nuzzling him. "Let me feel again."
Spike pulled away from the dragoness. Now finally understood! He understood why she was wasting so much time on him. Why she had showed him the things she did.
And he couldn't handle it. Spike wasn't able to process it all, so he ran out of the cave.
"Where are you going?" She asked.
Spike hadn't made it far, he actually hadn't made it further then the spot of his beating. His body was still racking with pain to go far.
"I-I can't." He spoke. "I'm not like you, I'm not strong."
She stared at the dragoness in silence before s
"Do you know why I chose you?" She asked "Out of every other dragon, I chose a pony-born."
"No."
"Inside, you are practically a blank slate." She explained. "I think you have that blaze, that's why I need you." She spoke "I'll give you anything you want, eventually I'll give you everything."
"It's too late." Spike spoke as his mind began to blur "The greed it taking control." It was "Just let me go, let me die!"
Just like the time before, Spike's body began expanding. Spike could no longer hold himself back.
"I'm sorry." She whispered.
As Spike grew, so did she. Her body reached a size Spike had never in the time of a single second. None of the dragons, even his greed form, were as large as she was. Her body was equal to the size of a Ursa Major.
She grabbed the growing Spike in her claws.
And squeezed.
Spike couldn't see anything anymore. All he could feel was her powerful grip, compressing his body. Her unbreakable grip, constricting the inside and out of his body.
In moments, he couldn't feel the pain. All he felt was a cold numbness. His mind faded in and out.
I might die this time. Spike thought.
The horrible realization caused Spike to panic.
He tried to move a part of himself. His limbs, his tail, a wing, anything.
It didn't work. Nothing seemed to work anymore.
As Spike felt fear in his upcoming end, he felt a second emotion. It was pure and undiluted resentment, at the dragoness, the ponies and even himself.
If only I wasn't so weak! He thought. Maybe If I had been raised by dragons...
It was because of the ponies that he was stunted. It was because of Her that he now saw what was blocking him. Not just the ponies, it was also himself.
It didn't matter if he stayed or left.
Even if I escaped, I would just be trapped in an endless cycle of taking. He would have been a wild animal, controlled by hid greed.
Spike felt a little relieved at the thought. At least this way, he would be aware of himself.
"I'm sorry." Spike spoke though her grip. "I wish I was whatever you were hoping for. But I'm not, I'm just walking greed." He stated in disgust "The only thing I want, that Spike wants, is to be a real dragon like you." He spoke in admiration "To be strong, so I don't have to be afraid of myself."
He never noticed that the squeezing had stopped until her palm opened and Spike saw her.
"Then I'll make it happen."
She opened her mouth and unleashed a unforgiving flame onto him. It wasn't like other dragons' fire. It was more like Spike's only violet in color.
Magic.
When Spike opened his eyes, he saw her.
There bodies were back to normal. She was the size of their first encounter, and he was the size of a baby dragon.
"You are born again." She spoke "A baptism by fire if you will."
There was no longer any uncontrollable urges to steal and eat. Spike felt it in his body, she had burnt the greed from his veins.
"T-thank you." He weakly spoke.
His body may have been cleansed of greed, but so was his energy. He was passed the point of running on fumes. He felt like he would collapse any second.
"No, thank you my Spike." She spoke "Thank you, my son."
"No." He spoke firmly, pushing his exhaustion away.
"W-what?" She asked, shocked and hurt.
"Not Spike, p-pony name." He spoke "Need...d-dragon name."
She smiled warmly at him, he returned it.
"I understand." She spoke "Sleep my Viridi Ignis." She named "Sleep, my Greenfire."
He was no longer Spike, pony raised dragon, hatched by Twilight Sparkle. He was now Viridi Ignis, he was Green fire, a dragon.