Spike The Dog

by bakersong

First published 11th of January, 2014

After Spike and Twilight go through the portal from the human world to the pony world something goes wrong. Spike is still a dog, but he starts to notice a few things. He could now understand the other animals perfectly.

After Spike and Twilight go through the portal from the human world to the pony world something goes wrong. Spike is still a dog, but he starts to notice a few things. He could now understand the other animals perfectly, and he starts to lose his feelings for Rarity. But he does start to have feelings for somepony else.

Prologue

"Hey Twilight we better get going." Spike said.

"You're right, and I'm so glad that I met all of you," Twilight said tears starting to form as she turns away from her new friends in this place.

"You know that crown really does suit you Princess Twilight," Spike said with a wink.

"Well after all this I just can't wait to get back to Equestria," Twilight said.

"What about your wings though?" Spike asked.

"Please Spike, for the past three days I've been walking on two legs and picking stuff up with these." Twilight held up her hands to emphasize her point. "I'm glad wings is all I have to deal with back in Equestria." She said as they walked through the portal only moments before the moon reached its point.

---

"She should be back by now." Applejack said pacing around the room.

"I'm sure she's fine Applejack, just relax," Rainbow said.

Before Applejack could respond though all of a sudden something or somepony came out of the portal standing on her hind legs. As she started to lose her balance she fell forward catching herself. All of Twilight's friends gather around her in a group hug when Spike came through and they all looked at him shocked.

"Why are you all staring at me like that?" Spike asked looking around the room.

"I-is that really you Spike?" Rainbow asked.

"Uh, yeah why? Do I have something on my face or something?" Spike asked confused scrunching up his nose.

"No, it's just you're a dog." Applejack replied.

"Wait how did you know I was a dog in the other universe or whatever?" Spike asked tilting his head to the side.

"No Spike what she means is that you didn't turn back into a dragon when we came through the portal," Twilight answered staring at him in shock. "But how is that possible, I turned back into a pony when I went through. So how come you didn't turn back into a dragon?"

"Wait, I'm still a dog?!" Spike asked in his own shock as he turned around and looked into the mirror that brought them back and his eyes widened in fear. "How am I still a dog?"

"Princesses do you know how this is possible?" Twilight asked.

When Twilight turned around she saw that both princesses were talking to each other eyeing Spike in his current form. She knew that they were discussing how he could still be in the form he was. So instead of repeating herself she just wrapped a hoof around the now shaking Spike.

"What if I'm stuck as a dog for the rest of my life?" Spike asked to no one in particular.

"Look Spike I'm sure the princesses know what happened and how to fix it, and even if they can't I will try my best to turn you back. But even if it's impossible then no matter what we will still love you just like we did before, no matter what you look like nothing will change how we feel about you, Spike." Twilight said in a comforting tone.

"But still, I liked being a dragon." Spike gave a little whimper.

"We believe we know what happened and possibly fix it." Princess Luna spoke making all eyes turning to the princesses.

"Yes, well let me explain what we think may have made him keep this form. When you two stepped back through the portal when it was about to close, it only had enough power left to send you both back here and could only transform one of you." Princess Celestia explained,

"So wait, because of how long we waited it only turned one of us back?" Twilight asked.

"Yes, and I think it chose you Twilight because you hold the element of magic. Now before any of you ask let me tell you how this could be fixed. Unfortunately what I'm about to say isn't good though." Princess Celestia replied.

"Um, no offense Princess but if it will help turn Spike back then how could it be bad?" Applejack asked.

"The only way we think we could safely turn him back into a dragon is if we send him back into the portal and then have him come back, the very portal that will be closed for thirty moons now." Princess Celestia answered and that got a collective gasp.

"But isn't there a way we can turn him back now, or speed up the portal opening?" Twilight asked concerned.

"I don't think so, as it might cause Spike serious harm since we don't know how the magic of the portal works exactly. As for opening the portal now, again we don't know what kind of magic it uses." Princess Luna was the one who answered this time.

"S-so there's nothing any of you can do to change me back for thirty moons then?" Spike asked shaking a little.

"I'm afraid so Spike." Princess Celestia answered.

"Oh, Spike I'm sorry!" Twilight said wrapping the poor dog in a comforting hug.

"I-it's not your fault Twilight," Spike said as he broke free from her. "I-I guess I'll just have to live like this for awhile." He put on a brave smile.

"Well if it's any consolations Spikie- wikie you are absolutely adorable!" Rarity spoke up walking over to him patting his head.

"T-thanks Rarity, maybe I can get used to this," Spike said as Rarity now scratched his head.

"Yeah Spike, maybe we can teach ya how to roll over and play dead." Applejack said getting the small group to laugh a little, even Spike gave a light chuckle.

"Only if you give me treats," Spike said getting another round of light laughter.

"You know, I mean if you want, I could give you some dog food for you," Fluttershy said.

"Well that would be great, what do you think Spike?" Twilight asked.

"Um, well to tell you the truth the food I had back in that other world wasn't half bad. So I think since I'm a dog now, why not?" Spike said shrugging his shoulders.

"Well, when we get back to Ponyville just stop by anytime and pick some up. And I'll even give you a checkup if you want Spike." Fluttershy said. "Oh, not that you aren't healthy or anything. It's just in case, I really didn't mean to say that you weren..."

"It's fine Fluttershy, I know what you meant and I think it would be good to get checked up." Spike interrupted.

"This certainly is a surprise, you all went from concern and fear to accepting it in a matter of a few minutes." Princess Luna said.

"I think that's because we all know that for right now there's no way we can help it. So why not just accept it you know?" Rainbow said.

"Hmm, that doesn't make to much sense. But I guess what can we expect from all of you though?" Princess Luna asked.

"Well, I'm sure we all have interesting questions and would like to get caught up with what happened. But I think both Twilight and Spike would like to get some sleep before we ask anything." Princess Celestia said suddenly.

"Now that you've mentioned it I am feeling tired." Twilight gave a big yawn.

"Yeah, me too," Spike said letting out his own yawn.

"Then I think we should all hit the hay for good night sleep." Applejack said, and the others nodded in agreement and they all started walking down a hall while asking questions anyway.

"Look as much as I want to answer all of your questions I'm just too tired," Twilight said.

"Yeah, and I'm still a little freaked out about being a dog still," Spike said.

"I thought you were fine with it?" Rainbow asked.

"Hey just because I accepted the fact that I'm still a dog doesn't mean I still can't freak out about it." Spike retorted.

"Whatever you say," Rainbow said rolling her eyes.

They continued on with Twilight bumping into Flash Sentry and shortly after the run in she got teased about it. Though Spike couldn't help but laugh at her embarrassment as well as the others. But then they finally made it back to their rooms and they all said their good nights and have sweet dreams.

Author's Notes:

Want to know why i'm writing a Spike is a dog story? Well it was a challenge by someone that I accepted. Well see you in the next chapter, if you decide to read this anyways.

Who Said That?

Author's Notes:

I like to thank TheArtsyPegasister for editing this chapter.

The scenery went by as they all sat on the train with Spike looking out the window. It's only been a few days since Twilight and him as a dog returned from the other world. As it turns out, Princess Celestia and Luna wanted Twilight to learn how to fly by the Summer Sun Celebration in order to do a stunt that sounded like Rainbow's Sonic Rainboom, but only with magic instead of flying really fast.

"So it looks like you won't be the only one getting used to a few things," Twilight said, breaking Spike out of his trance.

"Huh? I'm sorry Twilight, I wasn't listening." Spike blushed and rubbed his paw on the back of his head.

"Oh it's fine, you have a lot to think about. But I was saying that you're not the only who has to get used to new things." Twilight replied with an understanding smile while extending her wings to emphasize her point.

"Right, you with your wings, me being a dog instead of a dragon. Though at least I won't have to always send your letters, at least not how I used to be able to." Spike replied, releasing a deep breath to also show his point.

"It's fine now, the Princess doesn't want me to do any more friendship letters, and as for my other reports that I might have to turn in; she gave me the spell in order to send and receive letters just like her." She had a twinkle in her eyes as she said that. "And if I can't use that spell for some reason, we can always just send it through the regular mail. Hopefully, they won't take to long to deliver the mail."

"Well that's great and all, but I just can't wait to get home and see how's the family is doing, gotta make sure Big Mac has the farm under control." Applejack said, stretching as she got off her seat.

"Yeah, and me and you, Twilight, have to get started on flying lessons," Rainbow said with an excited grin.

"Bbbbbuuut we have to throw a 'Spike Is A Dog' party first before any of you leave, you all did Pinkie Promised!" Pinkie said, popping out of nowhere between Applejack and Rainbow who was sitting across from Twilight and Spike, making all four jump.

"Y-yeah that sounds great, but does it have to be right as soon as we get back?" Spike asked, gulping a little.

"Hmmm..." Pinkie put a hoof up to her chin to think. "I guess not, but we sooo have to have it by tomorrow." At that Spike let out a sigh of relief.

"Oh um, if you don't mind, but since we aren't going to have the party today, maybe you could stop by and pick up some dog food? Also, I would like to set up an appointment for Spike to check him out." Fluttershy said, popping her head up from where she was sitting.

"Yeah, that um, would be great," Twilight replied with a slight smile, and Spike could have sworn he saw a hint of blush.

It was the day after they got back, and their small group started to ask both Spike and Twilight questions. He noticed that Twilight was a little hesitant to talk about Flash Sentry. He originally thought it was because the one in their world was different than in the other world, but he now had a sneaking suspicion. It first hit him when they ate lunch, and they were still bombarding them with question after question. Then Fluttershy went to the bathroom and that was the first time she actually talked about her crush on Flash.

He wasn't sure, mostly because he knew almost nothing about romance, even if he did have a crush on a certain white unicorn. So, he decided to just stay out of it, for now, to see if his suspicion was true or not. But as far as he knew, Twilight may be avoiding talking about her feelings in front of the shy mare, but also he did know that it didn't make sense, for it was the simple fact that before she had no problem with talking about that stuff.

"So what do you think, Spike?" Twilight asked, giving him a little nudge.

"That sounds great Fluttershy, I'm looking forward to it," Spike said with a big smile.

"You have an appointment to get a checkup next Wednesday," Twilight whispered into his ear, and he gave a slight nod of gratitude. "It's to bad that I won't be able to spend the celebration with you girls though."

"Don't worry about it darling, though it does pain us all I'm sure, we all have our own responsibilities for now. That and we still have about three weeks before we have to separate for the short time." Rarity replied, and Spike's ear's shot up at the sound of her voice.

"Yeah, but it still feels weird," Twilight said, looking down with a hint of sadness in her tone.

"Don't worry Twilight, we'll still try to make it to the sun raising I promise," Fluttershy said, giving the purple Alicorn a comforting smile.

"Than..." Before Twilight could finish, her vision was filled with pink.

"Hmm..." Pinkie said, again putting her hoof up to her chin in concentration, looking directly at Twilight.

"What? Is there something on my muzzle?" Twilight asked, scrunching up her muzzle and crossing her eyes to look at it, and that's when Pinkie giggled a little.

"You're cute when you make that face, but no silly, you don't have anything on your muzzle." Pinkie said, bouncing back to her seat.

"Then why were you looking at me like that? And did you just say that I looked cute?" Twilight asked, scratching her head.

"I was looking at you because you looked sad, but then you put on a big smile." Pinkie answered with her usual bubbly tone.

"What about when you said that I looked cute when I make that face?" Twilight asked.

"Oh, that, everypony has a face that they make that's cute." Pinkie answered waving her hoof and looking out the window.

"Attention all passengers, we'll be arriving in Ponyville in fifteen minutes. So please get ready if this is your stop!" A stallion called.

"Well it's about time, even though I enjoyed the bed at the palace, I do love my bed much more. You know I had it shipped all the way from Prench?" Rarity asked, lifting her carry-on bag with her magic.

"Yeah, like twenty times before you got it, and about a thousand more when you did get it." Applejack replied.

"You're only jealous because my bed is far more comfortable than your old one." Rarity said.

"Hey, I don't even think I could sleep in your bed anyway, cause it's too soft for my taste, I like my bed just as it is." Applejack defended.

"Girls, please don't start arguing over silly matters again, you remember the sleepover we had?" Twilight reminded them.

"Fine," both ponies said in unison, making them both look at each other and laugh a little.

For the next fifteen minutes, they just sat there watching the familiar landscape go by until they heard the train's whistle and the grinding of its wheels. They all quickly got out and waited for the rest of their bags to be brought out. As they waited, they once again made small talk.

"Alright, Spike, I'll be going over to Fluttershy's to pick you up some food, do you want to come?" Twilight asked.

"Nah, you go on, I'll just go back to the library and catch up on my comics," Spike said waving his paw.

"Okay, and make sure Owlowiscious food and water bowls are filled up," Twilight said. "And also make sure that..."

"Twilight, I know what to do when you're not there." Spike cut her off, knowing exactly what she wanted him to do.

He knew it might be a challenge given his appearance right now, but he was sure he could handle it. After that, Twilight gave him a hug and they all separated to go about their business. But now that he was alone, he couldn't help but wonder if he could be turned back into a dragon. After all, it could be possible that the mirror's effects could be permanent. He knew this because it was magic, and since he lived with a powerful unicorn turned Alicorn princess, he had a basic understanding of how magic works.

As he entered the library, he saw Owlowiscious on his perch sleeping the day away, and he went ahead and checked both of the owl's bowls. Both were about half full, so he went around to make sure everything was organized according to Twilight's standards. After which, he decided to make himself a sandwich, which was tough since he had to use his mouth.

"Ah, that hit the spot. Too bad I can't eat gems anymore, cause I sure could go for a topaz milkshake right about now." Spike said as he finished his sandwich.

<Oh hello Mister Spike! I didn't know you returned, and you look a bit different.> Spike jumped at the sudden voice.

"W-who said that?" Spike asked, looking around.

<Why I did Mister Spike, though what a surprise you can understand me. Usually, only Miss Fluttershy can do that.> Spike turned to the direction of the voice to see Owlowiscious awake.

"Wait, I can understand you?" Spike asked, his eyes going wide.

<Apparently so Mister Spike, do you need a pillow by the way?> Owlowiscious asked, tilting his head.

"I can...but how...I..." Spike tried to say, but then everything went dark.

<Oh dear, I hope you're okay.> Owlowiscous said, as he just made it in time with a throw pillow from the couch.

An Early Checkup

As he laid there starting to regain consciousness he started to feel like the place was shaking, and he also heard what sounded like somepony calling him. Though the more he awoke the more he started to notice other stuff, like what felt like a familiar hoof on him, and the voice that was still a bit hard to hear also started to take on a more familiarity to it. But it wasn't until he finally opened his eyes that he realized that it was Twilight not only shaking him but also saying his name in a very concerned tone.

"Twi-twilight?" Spike asked a bit groggily.

"Oh thank Celestia! You're okay!" Twilight exclaimed releasing a sigh of relief.

"Y-yeah, but what happened?" Spike asked, his memory a bit hazy.

"Well, we really don't know exactly what happened. All we know is that Owlowiscious came over to Fluttershy's and told her that you had passed out. I was so worried about you, that something might have happened." Twilight replied pulling him in for a tight hug.

"T-twilight...I..can't...breath!" Spike managed to say.

"Oops, sorry. So, do you honestly don't remember what happened?" Twilight asked again with deep concern.

"Um, well the last thing I remember was eating a sandwich and wishing I could have a topaz milkshake. Then I heard a voice after that everything went blank and I woke up with you here. So, if you're here does that mean Fluttershy came along?" Spike asked, knowing if he passed out both Twilight and Fluttershy would have come.

Though he knew that even if Twilight was by herself when Owlowiscious came to get her she would have gone to get Fluttershy anyways. It's not that he didn't want Fluttershy to come, but he knew he was just fine in health wise, But as far as mental health he didn't think he was that healthy.

"No, she isn't here now. She did come with me to make sure you didn't hurt yourself. Which speaking of Fluttershy, she decided to move your appointment up to tomorrow." Twilight answered giving him a small smile. "But are you sure you're okay? You're not still hearing voices are you?"

"Yes Twilight, I'm just fine, and no I'm not hearing any voices," Spike replied, though something was tugging at the back of his mind.

"Hey, what is it?" Twilight asked once again donning a look of concern.

"I-I don't know, it's like some memory is trying to come up but for some reason, it can't," Spike replied rubbing his head again. "Hey, where's Owlowiscious?"

"He's staying over a Fluttershy's right now to spend some time with the other owl's, why?" Twilight asked.

"I don't know, I think it has something to do with him. That and I want to thank him for going for help when I probably needed it." Spike answered.

"Well, you'll be able to thank him tomorrow, but as for right now I think it's time to go to bed," Twilight said.

"What? But I just got up from being passed out for like hours." Spike whined.

"Yes, but Fluttershy said to make sure you got plenty of rest even if you're wide awake. So it's either go to bed by choice, or you get a sleeping spell." Twilight said lighting up her horn with the said spell.

"Alright, I'll go to bed just don't zap me!" Spike replied going up the stairs in a hurry.

"That's better, and goodnight!" Twilight called.

"Goodnight Twilight!" Spike called back.

"I really hope nothings wrong though," Twilight muttered to herself and allowing another more worried expression on.

The next morning both Spike and Twilight were up and about getting ready to go over to Fluttershy's house. Though Spike was surprised that he got as much sleep as he did, he thought he would be tossing and turning all night. Which made him think that Twilight may have used a sleeping spell on him.

"So, how are you doing? Also, did you make sure to grab the grocery list, and the backup grocery list, and the back up to the backup grocery list?" Twilight asked.

"For the thousandth time, I'm fine and yes I got every single one of the grocery list. And before you ask, yes I also made sure to grab the list of things to do today." Spike grumbled.

"Okay, fine Mr. Grumpy," Twilight said with a slight blush.

"So, let me go over this with you. While I'm at Fluttershy's getting my checkup, you'll be doing all the grocery and regular shopping?" Spike asked raising an eyebrow.

"Yeah, is that a problem?" Twilight replied.

"Well no, it's just last time you got haggled out of twenty more bits than what I would have got," Spike said.

"Hey, that stallion said that he was running low on money and he had two foals to feed because he's a single dad," Twilight replied.

"Twilight, Lettuce Ranch is married and only has one kid who is already moving out of the house," Spike said.

"Oh, um, then he was just very charming," Twilight said.

"And beside's the Flash in the other world have you found any stallion charming? Shot, are you even into stallions?" Spike asked.

"Oh, hey look at the time. We need to go or else we'll be late for your appointment." Twilight said.

"But my appointment isn't for another hour," Spike said, giving her a slight smirk.

"Yes, but it takes at least twenty five minutes to Fluttershy's on hoof, and I always prefer to show up early," Twilight said.

"You know Twilight, it's nothing to be ashamed about if you're into mares. After all, it's pretty common now a day's." Spike said walking towards the door.

"I know, but everypony still thinks I have a crush on Brad," Twilight replied.

"Yeah, I know. What I don't understand is why does everypony call him Brad?" Spike asked.

"From what I hear, it's because he's supposed to be bland and boring," Twilight answered.

"Oh, so in other words, he's just not that interesting," Spike said.

"Yeah, that's pretty much it," Twilight answered. "So let's get going then."

"Um, Twilight, we already left about ten minutes ago," Spike said, making Twilight look around and blush a little.

"Oh, wait we've been walking and talking for ten minutes now?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah, can't believe you didn't notice," Spike replied.

After that, they continued on making some small talk along the way to pass the time and stopping to say hi to a few other ponies. Though they had to be told who he was because nopony recognized him in his current state. But he didn't blame any of them for that, and it wasn't long before they finally got to Fluttershy's.

"Well, that took a little longer than expected," Spike said.

"You see that's part of the reason why we left an hour early," Twilight commented.

"Yeah, and the other part was to avoid my question," Spike replied.

"Anyway's, we're here. So, um, do I look okay?" Twilight asked looking a bit nervous.

"You look pretty normal if that's what you mean, other than being nervous of course," Spike answered.

"That's good enough I guess," Twilight said putting on the best smile she could and knocked, and they waited for a moment before the could barely hear a response.

"Who is it?" Fluttershy asked barely audible through the door.

"It's me and Spike Fluttershy, can we come in?" Twilight asked.

"Oh, you two are a little early," Fluttershy said opening the door giving them a big warming smile.

"Well, if you want us to come back later we can," Twilight said, her tone a bit nervous.

"Oh no, you already came all the way and Spike's appointment is only ten minutes away anyway's. So please come in, would you like some tea or something else, maybe a snack?" Fluttershy asked opening the bottom door to let them in.

"Yes, tea would be lovely Fluttershy. How about you Spike?" Twilight asked who was now hiding her nerves a little better.

"Uh, yeah I could go for some tea," Spike answered. "Thanks, Fluttershy."

"It's no problem, and how are you feeling today Spike?" Fluttershy asked walking into the kitchen.

"Well, I'm doing just fine so far," Spike answered.

"So, you're not suffering from any dizziness or anything like that are you?" Fluttershy asked while still in the kitchen.

"Not as far as I can tell," Spike replied.

"And what did you have to eat yesterday?" Fluttershy asked walking back into the living room. "Oh, and the tea will be ready in about fifteen minutes. I hope you don't mind waiting." Fluttershy said.

"No, not at all," Twilight replied.

"Me neither, and I had a sandwich," Spike answered.

"And was that before or after blacking out?" Fluttershy asked.

"It was before," Spike replied.

"Okay, well can you tell me all that you did yesterday after you got back to the library? From what Owlowiscious told me, you blacked out when he was saying hello to you like how he normally does." Fluttershy said, making that one memory try to come back up again.

"Well, I did what Twilight would normally have me do when she's not there. Which that mostly consist of chores like dusting, making sure every book is in the right place, and taking out the trash. That's pretty much all I did yesterday, and then when I was about to go upstairs I heard a voice saying hello to me." Spike answered.

"Oh my, are you sure you didn't just hear Owlowiscious?" Fluttershy asked taking on a bit of a similar concerned look that Twilight had.

"No, I'm sure it was another voice and not a hoot from him," Spike answered rubbing his temple. "Hey, I know this is a bad time but where are your other animals?"

"Oh, well they're out and about today. The only other appointment that I really had was with Winona as my other appointments were either rescheduled or canceled." Fluttershy answered, and just as she finished the tea kettle started to go off. "Sounds like the tea's done, I'll go get it."

"I'll help you," Twilight said and followed the yellow Pegasus into the kitchen. "So, have you figured out what could have caused him to just black out like that yet?"

"No, and besides him hearing a voice which for that he may need a therapist help, he seems to be mentally healthy to me. As for physically, I don't know yet I still have to do a physical for that." Fluttershy answered grabbing the kettle with her teeth and placing it on a tray.

"Well, I hope he's okay because if being a dog makes him go crazy I don't think I could handle losing him," Twilight said.

"Don't worry Twilight, I may not be a therapist but I don't think he'll go so crazy where he'll be taken away," Fluttershy said putting a comforting hoof on her shoulder.

"Yeah, I hope you're right," Twilight said trying to hide her blush.

Meanwhile, in the living room, Spike was sitting on the couch waiting for the two mares to get back. As he waited he couldn't help but think of what the memory that kept trying to resurface was. But the best he could figure it had something to do with Owlowiscious, and as he was thinking he heard a knock.

"Hey, Fluttershy I'm here to drop off Winona!" Spike heard Applejack's voice call, and he looked to the kitchen to see if either one of the other mare's heard her. Upon realizing that neither one of them heard her, he decided he would answer the door.

"Coming!" He called as he hopped down off the couch and ran over to the door, and as he opened it he was greeted by Applejack's legs. "Hey Applejack, down here."

"Oh, hey Spike. Whacha doing here?" Applejack asked looking down mildly surprised.

"Well, last night I kind of passed out for some reason and so Fluttershy moved my check-up to today. You said you were here to drop off Winona?" Spike asked hoping to change the subject.

"I'm sorry to hear that, and I hope you feel better. And yeah, she's right over there by the chicken coop." Applejack said nodding over to where Fluttershy kept her chickens.

"Alright, I'll let Fluttershy know," Spike said.

"Okay, well better get back to the farm. Got to get ready, we have a tone of repairs that need to be done before Applebucking season begins." Applejack said giving him a smile and turning to walk away. "Again, hope you get better and see ya around."

"Yeah, thanks and see you around to," Spike replied, and as he shut the door Twilight and Fluttershy finally came back.

"Oh, who was at the door?" Fluttershy asked.

"Applejack, she dropped off Winona. Which as of right now she's outside by the chicken coop." Spike replied.

"Oh, okay. Well let's have a glass of tea, and then we'll continue with your checkup alright?" Fluttershy asked giving him a friendly smile.

"Yeah, alright," Spike said going back over to where the couch was.

After a cup of tea, it became very awkward for Spike as they entered into the physical checkup. At first, it wasn't too bad, that is until she had to get more personal in which he thought would leave a mental scare for years to come. When it was finally over he let out a sigh of relief.

"Well, he seems to be just fine physically as well, and um, sorry about that Spike. That's just the normal routine checkup for all my new patients." Fluttershy said having a slight blush.

"I-it's fine, it's not like that'll leave a mental scare for awhile or anything," Spike said.

"Spike! She's just trying to help." Twilight said.

"I know, and I'm sorry Fluttershy. Really it's fine." Spike said.

"Well if you say so, but um, Twilight, I would still like to keep him over here for a little while to keep an eye on him," Fluttershy said.

"Um, okay that's fine with me, how about you Spike?" Twilight asked giving him a slight glare.

"Yeah, that sounds cool," Spike said shrinking a little under the glare. "But, why are you still even here Twilight, I thought you had grocery shopping to do?"

"Oh no! I completely forgot! I have to go, see you later Fluttershy and Spike!" And with that Twilight teleported out.

"Well, um, see you later then," Fluttershy muttered. "I better go get Winona, so make yourself comfortable."

"Okay, will do Fluttershy," Spike said going over to the couch again and laying down.

He was laying down getting more and more comfortable on the couch. As he did he felt himself start to doze off a little, but he was still awake though. But he was to zoned out to hear Fluttershy bringing Winona in, and he certainly wasn't prepared when the collie started to run and jump over the back of the couch and land directly on him.

<Hiya! What's your name? Cause my name's Winona, but hey you look and smell a bit familiar. Have we already met before?> Winona asked while he was pinned under her his mouth hanging open in surprise and shock as that one memory came back. <You know you look a little funny with your mouth hanging open like that.>

"Winona down!" Fluttershy said in a bit of a commanding tone.

<Oops, my bad. Alright Fluttershy, I'm sorry.> Winona said tucking her tail in her legs getting down.

"And yes you have met him before. Winona, this is Spike. You remember the dragon?" Fluttershy asked.

<Oh, him. But this guy isn't a dragon.> Winona said.

"I know, that's because he was transformed into a dog. Now go wait in the toy room for a minute." Fluttershy said.

<Alright, well see ya around Spike.> Winona said taking off to where the toy room was.

"Are you alright, it looks like you've seen a ghost," Fluttershy said.

"I-I could u-understand..." He trailed off, and once again he passed out.

"Oh my, are you okay?" Fluttershy asked zipping over to the now unconscious Spike.

Author's Notes:

Okay, here we are the next chapter. Sorry it's been a minute, but unfortunately my proofreader hasn't been in touch for a moment. So if my proofreader is reading this, continue with catching any mistakes in this chapter and send them over when you can.

But, How Can I...

"...you sure he's alright?" He heard the familiar voice ask, and another familiar voice answer.

"Well, before he fainted he said something about understanding." The other voice said.

"Understanding, understanding what?" He could now identify that the first voice was Twilight, which confirmed that the second voice must have been Fluttershy.

"I don't know, all I know is I let Winona in so I could give her a checkup for fleas. But when I did, she jumped on Spike and started to say hi to him, and after I got her off that's when he fainted." Fluttershy responded.

"Hmm, I wonder if it's possible if he can now understand other animals?" Twilight asked, putting a hoof up to her chin in concentration.

"That's what happened!" He said, gaining both mares attention.

"Oh, Spike your awake!" Twilight said, running over and giving him a hug. "But what happened?"

"If you don't mind telling us," Fluttershy said, coming up behind Twilight.

"I could understand Winona, and that's also why I fainted the first time too. I could understand Owlowiscious!" He explained. "But how is that possible, Twilight?"

"Well, in the other world could you understand the animals there?" Fluttershy asked.

"No, I couldn't understand them until we came back." He answered, and he looked at Twilight with a look of hope.

"I'm not entirely sure, but it could be because of the portal," Twilight said, giving him a comforting look.

"But how would it do that?" Fluttershy was the one who asked before he could.

"Yeah, I don't understand." He said.

"Well, think about it. The portal turned you into a dog, but when we got back it didn't have enough power to turn you back into a dragon.' Twilight replied.

"Still not understanding here Twilight, could you maybe get to the point?" He asked, a little impatient.

"Okay, well I think the portal gave you the ability to communicate with other animals. In a way it makes sense, it replaced your other fire breathing ability with one that's better suited to your new form." Twilight answered.

"So, what you mean Twilight is that when he went into the portal because it didn't have enough magic to turn him back it allowed him to communicate with other animals in replacing his fire breath?" Fluttershy asked, a little confused.

"Yeah, that's pretty much what I think is going on. So it looks like you have even more to get used to now Spike, and now that we have an idea of what's going on I hope you aren't going to faint next time." Twilight said, giving him a pat on the head.

"Hey, the only reason why I fainted was that it took me by surprise. I mean how would you like it if all of a sudden you could talk to animals?" He asked, slapping her hoof away.

"Well, I don't think I would pass out from it that's for sure," Twilight said, giving him a slight smirk.

"It's so nice to see you two still act like a brother and sister," Fluttershy said, making both of them look at her. "Oh, d-did I say that out loud?"

"Yeah, you did and I'm glad you said that," Twilight said, that making Fluttershy hide in her mane.

"Why would you be glad I said that though?" Fluttershy asked, a slight blush forming.

"Because no matter what I want other's to always see Spike and me like family," Twilight answered, giving Fluttershy a kind smile.

"Hey, I think I'll go check out the toy room you mentions earlier Fluttershy." He said, hopping down from his spot on the couch.

"Oh, you don't have to go, Spike," Fluttershy said, and he just waved hid paw.

"It's fine since I'm gonna be a dog for the next two years might as well act like one every now and again." He said and started walking towards the toy room.

"Oh, and be careful, Winona is still here, and she can get a little ruff when she plays," Fluttershy called.

"Was that a joke that I heard?" He asked, turning his head raising an eyebrow.

"Spike, just go play if that's what you want to do right now," Twilight said, giving him a grateful smile at the alone time.

"Fine, but no dog jokes alright?" He asked, making both mares giggle.

"Alright, but you better not ruff house it in there," Twilight said, again making them both giggle and making him roll his eyes and let out a groan.

"Guess I better get used to it...AHH!" He yelled in surprise, as he was tackled to the ground by another fluffy body.

<Hi there again, sorry didn't mean to scare ya the first time or this time. I heard you were coming to play and decided to meet ya. So, you can understand me?> Winona asked, cocking her head to the side.

"Oh, um, y-yeah I guess I can." He replied. "But, do you think you could get off of me?"

<Oops, sorry but I just get so excited about new playmates!> She said, moving off of him.

<Ah, Mr. Spike I'm glad to see you awake and well.> A voice called, and as he got up he looked around to see Owlowiscious on a perch looking at him.

"Oh, yeah and sorry about what happened." He said with a slight blush.

<It's quite alright Mr. Spike, I understand that you just had a little scare.> Owlowiscious replied.

<So, what do you wanna play with? Huh, Spike?> She asked, her tail wagging like crazy.

"Um, let's see..." He said, giving the room a look around and saw different kind of animal toys laying around. "How about we play some ball?"

<Oh, yes that sounds like a great idea!> She said. <And since your new, I'll even let you pick which ball to play with!>

<Really Winona, you never let anypony decide which one to play with?> Owlowiscious said, raising an eyebrow at her.

<No I don't, I always let the new guy pick!> She said, and he could have sworn he saw a glare from her.

<Mmmhmm, well anyway have fun you two. I think I'll go back to the library just in case Ms. Twilight needs me for her late night studies, and Mr. Spike be warned about Angel. As I'm sure you recall, he can be a bit of a brat> Owlowiscious said, as he started to fly away.

"Yeah, don't remind me and thanks." He said, waving at the owl before he left.

<So, are ya gonna choose which ball to play with?> She asked, giving him a nudge towards where it looked like a pile of balls were piled up.

"Oh, yeah sure." He said and started to walk over to the pile. "Hmm, let's see here."

He started to rummage through the balls, and couldn't believe the different kinds of balls that Fluttershy had. There were, of course, squeaky balls, tennis balls, tennis balls attached by rope to other tennis balls, baseballs, even a basketball. And as he was sure he found one he liked, he suddenly felt something behind him and he could also hear what sounded like sniffing.

"Um, what are you doing?" He asked in surprise when he looked back to see Winona sniffing his butt.

<Oh, what me? I'm doing nothing, I was just coming over to see which one you decided on.> She said, her eyes darting around.

"Really, so you weren't just sniffing my butt?" He asked, raising an eyebrow.

<Nope, not at all. Oh, hey that's my favorite ball! I thought I lost it a long time ago!> She suddenly says, and he looked at the ball he was holding and noticed it had an apple design on the side.

"Huh, well maybe it is yours. I mean I really don't know anypony else that might have a baseball with an apple on it besides the Apple family. So, you wanna play catch?" He asked, completely forgetting what they were talking about.

---

"So, um, do you want some tea Twilight?" Fluttershy asked, feeling a little nervous about being alone with her for some reason.

"That sounds great Fluttershy, why don't I help you?" Twilight asked, giving her a smile.

"Oh, no your my guest and I should be the one who makes it," Fluttershy said.

"Are you sure, because I really don't mind helping out Fluttershy?" Twilight asked.

"No, I'm sure but thank you though. I'll be right back, and would you also like to have a snack?" Fluttershy asked as she walks into the kitchen.

"Um, no thank you Fluttershy," Twilight replied.

"Okay, the tea will probably take a few minutes so you can sit back and relax a little if you want," Fluttershy said, and she finally went all the way into the kitchen, and once Twilight knew that for sure she let out a sigh.

"Okay Twilight, you can do this." She said to herself.

"Um, are you talking to yourself?" Twilight let out a surprised yell and looked to see Fluttershy standing there. "And you can do what?"

"Oh, um, yeah I was just trying to uh, build my confidence to uh, um..." She started to get hot, and her eyes starting to look everywhere and nowhere.

"Are you okay Twilight? I mean you don't have to tell me if you don't want to." Fluttershy said, giving the nervous mare a kind smile.

"Well, it's just that I...I.." Twilight was at a loss of words at the moment, she really had tried to mentally prepare herself for this but that seemed to not help.

"Well, if you don't mind, but can I take a guess?" Fluttershy asked.

"Uh, sure," she replied.

"Hmm, well my guess is that you have a crush on somepony!" Fluttershy exclaimed, and she was wearing a big smile. "Am I right?"

"But how did you know?" Twilight asked, blushing like crazy and she could swear she was going to pass out from the heat.

"Well, I may not be Rarity but I do know a few things about what a pony looks like when they have a crush on somepony. So who is it? Is it somepony that we know?" Fluttershy asked, her excitement not being held back.

"Um, well y-yes it is somepony we know very well," Twilight answered, her ears folding back and she was now fidgeting very nervously.

"Oh, so it's one of us?" Fluttershy asked, getting closer to her.

"Um, uh y-yes it's one of us, out of our group of close friends," Twilight replied, though it came out more of a squeak.

"Can I take a guess who it is?" Fluttershy asked, getting even closer.

"I-if y-you want," she answered.

"Is it Pinkie?" Fluttershy asked pretty much muzzle to muzzle.

"W-why would you think it would be Pinkie?" She asked, trying to take a step back but she didn't realize that they were already at a wall.

"Well, because I had my suspicion that you have liked like her for a while, and I know she has feelings towards you too," Fluttershy answered.

"S-she does, but how do you know?" She asked, trying to remember if she knew a shrinking spell.

"Well, because she told me and made me Pinkie Promise until I knew you had feelings for her that I wouldn't tell," Fluttershy explained. "So, am I right?"

"Um, uh, well I-I..." She tried to say something else, but she was too confused at the moment and she didn't know what to think.

"It's okay, you don't have to say it. But I think you should ask her out, it would mean a lot to her. Oh, I think the tea's done." Just then the kettle went off, and Fluttershy went back into the kitchen.

"Pinkie likes likes me?" I-I don't believe it." She mumbled to herself, her heart starting to feel heavy from the news.

After all, it wasn't Pinkie her heart was after but with the news she just received just made her already confused emotions more confused. She knew it wasn't going to be easy, but this just made things even more complicated. Though she wished she could talk to Cadence about this, it was her who actually helped her at least to know what she was feeling. But one thing was for sure now, before she made her move she would spend a little more time with the pink mare just to be sure if she really did have feelings for her.

Author's Notes:

Hey guys, I know that the side plot may be going on a little fast but trust me this will be hopefully the only chapter that makes it seem that way. Anyways, hope you all enjoyed and remember to smile, smile, smile!

A Day With Rarity

As they walked home in silence, he knew that she was in deep thought about something. But that wasn't what worried him, for that was pretty normal for the purple alicorn. What did worry him was that she seemed to be depressed as well, something he knew could make her have another break down.

"So, what's wrong Twilight?" He asked, breaking the silence.

"Huh, what?" She looked up in surprise, obviously not paying attention in her thoughts but she did recognize the look on Spikes face. "It's nothing to big, don't worry."

"You know I can't do that, just tell me what's wrong." He said, not wanting her to go insane. "Is it about Fluttershy?"

"What do you mean?" She asked, though she gave a sigh knowing that he would probably have figured out by now. After all, he was the one who knew her the best. "Kind of, that's only part of it though."

"She didn't say no did she?" He asked, feeling very nervous.

"Wait, how did you know that I was going to ask her?" She asked, eyes a little wide.

"Because, you had the look you get when your determined to finish a good book. Since I knew you didn't bring any books, I just figured. But what did she say?" He asked again.

"She didn't say anything, because I didn't ask." She then hung her head low, ears folding.

"What, did you get to nervous or something?" He asked, feeling slightly relived but knew better than to let go of his fears.

"I-I rather not say right now, is that okay Spike?" She asked, her tone was pleading for him not to push.

"Um, sure whatever. Say do you need me for anything tomorrow?" He asked.

"No, at least nothing I can think of. Why?" She replied.

"Because, I think I want to go out for the day, is that okay with you?" He asked, giving her an understanding look.

"Yeah, that sounds great Spike." She answered, giving him a small appreciative smile as they walked inside the library.

They did what they normally do, Twilight went straight to her desk to get in some study time while Spike made sure everything was organized. When it was time to eat, of course there was the normal argument of who was going to make the food. Once again, he had won that argument, and finally he decided to go up to bed and let Owlowiscious deal with the nighttime stuff.

"Hey, Spike," he turned his head to see Twilight giving another grateful smile. "Just wanted to say thanks, for letting me have time to think things through."

"Don't mention it, as long as you don't have another break down." He said, giving her a smirk.

"Alright, goodnight Spike." She said, waving him off.

"Goodnight Twilight, night Owlowiscious." He said, and started up the stairs.

<Goodnight Mr. Spike.> He heard the owl's voice call.

"Man, I'm going to really have to get used to that." He muttered as he got into his basket.

---

When he woke up, he went through his routine as best as he could with his current state. It was a little difficult though, but he somehow managed just fine. After he cooked breakfast for Twilight, and making sure she was up he told her that he was going.

"Alright Spike, when do you think you'll be back?" She asked, after taking a bite of toast.

"Um, well I was thinking I be back before the sun completely sets. So, probably about five." He told her, his voice showing how impatient about not being able to get over to Rarity's making her give a little chuckle.

"That's fine, have fun while you're over there. And tell Rarity that I'll be over tomorrow just like we said, to get the new measurements for my dress." She said.

"Okay, bye Twilight!" He said, running out the door.

"Poor Spike, I know he has a crush on her but I wonder when he'll catch on to her game?" She shook her head, as that brought her own relationship problems to her mind. "Well, better not waste the time then."

He was running as fast as he could, and the ponies he passed could have sworn his eyes were in the shape of hearts. But he couldn't care less, all he wanted to do was be with Rarity. Though he knew that it was wrong of him to just up and leave Twilight with whatever was bothering her, he knew it would be better for her right now to try to figure it out on her own. Besides, he was pretty sure she would have just made him go somewhere anyways.

When he finally got to Rarity's, he finally stopped and took some deep breaths to calm down his breathing. Normally, he would also wipe off any sweat that had accumulated as well but since he was a dog he knew he couldn't sweat. Raising his paw, he knocked and waited.

"Coming!" He heard the sing song voice call, before the door opened. "Oh, hello Spike. What are you doing here, darling?" The white unicorn asked, giving him a friendly smile.

"Well, I came to see if you needed any help?" He asked, giving a tiny nervous gulp.

"Oh, certainly! I could definitely use some help, especially after Sweetie Belle decided to try to make her own curtains." She replied, waving a hoof for him to come in. "Please, come in."

"Sure thing, oh and also Twilight also told me that she would be over here for her dress measurements tomorrow." He said, walking in not taking his eyes off of the white unicorn.

"That's marvelous! I'm so glad she let me do her dress." She said, her eyes giving off a sparkle.

"Well why wouldn't she? I mean you are one of her best friends, and one of the best fashion designers out there. I would even go so far as to say you are in fact the best." He said, not missing the opportunity.

"My, oh my aren't you just the flatter today." She said, giving a slight blush at the compliment. "But, come on if you want to help!"

"Sure thing Rarity!" He said, following her practically floating in the air.

"As I said, Sweetie had tried to make her own curtains the other day. So, since your here do you mine cleaning up the mess for me, please?" She asked, turning to look at him fluttering her eye lashes.

"What ever you want!" He said, his already big and goofy grin turning even more big and goofy.

"Thank you darling, the mess in through that door. If you need me, I'll be in my work room." She said, trotting off making him snap out of his trance and finally took a look at the room making him groan.

"How did that filly even get a sewing machine stuck on the ceiling like that? Especially when she's just learning about magic?" He mumbled to himself, and he started to get to work.

It surprisingly didn't take him as long as he thought it would, even if he did have to find a way to get the sewing machine down without busting it. Somehow, Sweetie had sewed the machine itself to the ceiling. If he didn't know better, he would say her cutie mark would represent her talent of doing stuff like that.

"Oh, Spikey- Wikey!" He heard Rarity's voice call.

"Coming!" He called back, and took off to where he thought he heard the voice.

"There you are, how's the cleaning going?" She asked, as he came into the room.

"The cleaning in that room is done." He said, giving her a proud smile.

"Well, that's very good. I'll have to check on it in a little bit, but for right now do you think you could help me carry some supplies from the local fabric store?" She asked.

"Um, well I would normally but I don't know how much help I'll be now." He replied, his smile fading as she turned to him with a pout.

"Please, for little old me?" She asked, making her bottom lip tremble.

"No need for that Rarity, of course I would. I mean, I didn't say no the first time anyways." He said, making her gain a big smile.

"Good, now let me get ready then we can go." She said, giving him a dismissal wave.

"Alright, I guess I'll just be waiting in the living room I guess." He said, giving a little sigh.

Author's Notes:

Okay, here you all are! Hope you enjoyed, and before any of you ask Opal will make an appearance later. But I'm curious to see if any of you can guess why I didn't put the cat in this chapter? Also, random author fact time!
When I was in second grade, before I got my glasses and even to some time after I was considered legally blind. Again, hope you all enjoyed and remember to smile, smile, smile!

A Night Over At Applejack's

As they returned to Rarity's, he couldn't help but collapse under the weight of all the bags. It took him a good minute to manage to dig his way out, and by then he was panting like crazy. When he looked around, he realized that Rarity wasn't even in the same room anymore.

"I-I guess I'm not as strong, man this sucks." He muttered, and started to head towards the kitchen hoping to get a drink.

When he got to the sink, he realized that he needed a step stool or ladder in order to reach the faucet. Knowing Sweetie Belle always hid one around, he looked around and quickly found one behind the fridge. He managed to hop onto the counter top and turn on the faucet when Rarity walked in.

"Oh, I'm so sorry Spike you must have been terribly thirsty after helping me." She said, making him stop drinking for a moment.

"No, it's fine I can handle it." He said, getting on last sip before turning off the water. "So, you need any more help?"

"No darling, but thank you for offering. But you're more than welcome to stay just in case." She replied, lifting him up and placing him back onto the floor.

"That sounds great!" He said excitedly, and then looked at the clock. "Oh, shot I have to get back to the library!"

"Okay darling, come back any time!" She called as he ran out the front door.

"Man, I'm sooo running late right now!" He said, looking at the clock tower reading seven ten. "I just hope Twilight isn't going to hold this against me."

As he ran, he realized he kept making wrong turns and losing his way though he didn't know how. It is a small town, and he couldn't believe he was actually getting lost in it. He was sure that if anypony saw him, they would laugh because of it.

When the library came into his view, he finally slowed down to catch his breath and started to walk. Though the closer he got to the library the slower he walked, feeling nervous about what Twilight would say when he got home. But as he got to the door, he heard to rambling and shuffling from the other side.

"No, that won't due either. Not that one either, none of these books have what I need!" He heard Twilight scream in frustration, and then heard her take a a breath to calm down. "I just hope Spike is willing to stay the night at Applejack's tonight."

"But why would you want me to stay the night over there?" He asked, as he pushed the door open.

"Ahh!" She jumped a little, her wings opening but that only made her lose her balance on her way down and do a face plant in a pile of books. "Ow, you really gave me a scare there Spike."

"Sorry, I just over heard you saying that you wanted me to stay the night over at Applejack's." He said, blushing a little.

"Oh, yeah I have a big study project planned and I think I would like to be alone so I can concentrate on it. Applejack came over, and I already asked if it was alright and she said it wouldn't be a problem." She said, picking up the books she face planted into and placed them back on the shelves. "Is it alright with you?"

"Yeah, I understand. You need your space and all, just a little surprised is all." He replied.

"Okay, so do you want to walk all the way or would you like me to teleport you?" She asked, giving him a smile.

"Um, teleported please. I've had enough running around for one day." He said, his paws starting to feel sore now.

"I bet, now hold still I'm still getting used to doing long distances." She said, her horn lightening up covering him with a purple aura.

"You know what, on second thought I think I would like...." He was gone before he could finish.

----

"So, when is Spike gonna be here?" Applebloom asked impatiently.

"Well he was helping Rarity, so by now he should be back at the library. So I'd say he should be here right now." As Applejack said that, a bright purple light flooded through the room.

"....to walk there." He said, and blinked a few times and realized he was now at the Apple residents.

"Well, howdy to you too Spike." Applejack said, and tilted her hat.

"Uh, sorry I forgot Twilight was still trying to go further with telepotation." He said, in a little embarrassment. "But, hey to you guys I guess."

"Oh wow! You really did get turned into a dog! So, what's it like? Have you drank out of the toilet yet?" Applebloom asked, as he she rushed up on him.

"Um, very hot, and no I haven't." He answered, taking a few steps back from the excited filly.

"So, can you really talk with other animals?" The filly asked.

"Yeah, I can and before you ask it was a little freaky at first." He answered, looking at Applejack for help.

"So, Spike are ya hungry? Big Mac's in the kitchen making his famous pasta." Applejack said, and he gave her a grateful smile.

"Yeah, that sounds great and thank you for letting me stay while Twilight is having another study section." He said, putting a little emphasis on the last two words.

"Ain't nothing, just glad to have ya here. Hey Big Mac, is the food almost done?" Applejack asked, calling into the kitchen.

"Eyup!" He heard the response, and he gave a sigh as the only other time he heard the red stallion say anything was when he was singing with the Pony Tones.

"That means it'll be done in five minutes, if ya didn't catch that." Applejack said.

"Oh, thanks and hey where's Winonna?" He asked.

"She's outside right now, for some reason she always like's to bury her toys." Applejack answered.

"That would explain how some of them ended up over at Fluttershy's." He said, and they both gave a tiny chuckle and Big Mac came out with a big pot and pan of food.

"Well, time to eat. Now, we're gonna let you get your plate first cause once we all get started it'll be a war zone to get more food." Applejack said, making his plate for him.

"Thanks, and yeah guess I wouldn't want to get in the way then." He said, licking his lips.

"Alright, there ya go now let's dig in!" At that, he ate in amazement at how accurate Applejack was as pasta was thrown about on the table.

Author's Notes:

Well, there you guys go. Sorry for it being a little bit of a shorter chapter, but I've been busy over the past few weeks. Also, to panzerbrony there's a spare key to that door to your left. Hope you all enjoyed, and remember to smile, smile, smile!

A Night Over At Applejack's 2

It seemed to be going okay for him, as they ate he managed to get out pretty clean despite food being thrown. The pasta tasted great as well, and he thought about asking Big Mac about the recipe. That was until something hit him on the top of his head.

"No dogs allowed at the table, down boy." Granny Smith said, before giving him another wack on the head with the wooden spoon she was holding.

"Granny, will ya quite hitting him. I already explained to you that he isn't a dog, at least he wasn't a dog before. This is Spike, you remember Twilight's assistant?" Applejack asked, grabbing the spoon away from the elderly mare.

"Yes, I remember the baby dragon. But he ain't no dragon, he's obviously a dog Applejack and you know the rule's. No dogs allowed at the table while we're eating. Now down boy." Granny said, picking him up by the scruff of his neck.

"But that ain't fair Granny, he isn't a dog!" Applebloom objected.

"Either way, he ain't allowed at the table even if he was a dragon like how y'all claim. Now, no arguing or else you'll go to bed without dessert." Granny warned, putting him outside the door. "Now, you go play."

"But I wasn't finish eating though!" He whined, giving the puppy dog eyes.

"Granny, why don't ya go have a seat back at the table while I take care of it?" Applejack said, pulling her granny back to the table. "Sorry bout that, there isn't much arguing when she gets this way sometimes. Here's the rest of your food, and don't worry either me or Applebloom will fetch ya and Wionna when it's time."

"Ya Spike, we wouldn't want ya to run off." Applebloom said, suddenly standing in front of him and started to scratch behind his ear. "Besides, I think it's kind of cool cause now we get to train ya to sit and roll over! Maybe even play dead, actually maybe me and the other Crusaders could get our cutie marks in dog training!"

"Applebloom, he ain't a regular dog so get that idea out of your little head and get back at the table and finish eating." Applejack said, giving her sister a glare.

"Fine, but I still think me and he other crusaders could have earned our cutie marks." Applebloom mumbled as she walked back to the table.

"Well, be a good boy and finish..." Applejack nearly jammed a hoof in her mouth. "Sorry Spike, kind of old habits. But I hope you don't mind staying out here for a few hours, maybe an hour at least if Granny goes to sleep by then."

"Ir's fine, don't worry about it," he said, and before she went back inside she gave him a look that did in fact say she was sorry for her little slip and he looked at his food and pushed it away. "I don't think I'm that hungry anymore. I can understand Granny Smith, but did Applebloom have to make those dog training remarks?" He snorted a little.

<Well, somepony seems to be in a bad mood.> He turned to see Wionna standing by the steps to the porch staring at him.

"You would be to if you suddenly started to get treated like an animal even for a split second!" He ranted, and then his eyes widen. "Um, no offense."

<None taken, I mean you were just turned into a dog after all. It's going to take some time before ponies get used to that. Besides, from what I've seen how is being treated like a dog any different then how you were treated before? Because what I saw earlier, that Rarity mare is still using you as her personal luggage carrier.> Wionna said, taking a seat next to him.

"Hey, I volunteered for that!" He defended.

<So, you listened to her then?> He gave a nod. <You listened to her before you became a dog?> Another nod. <You know there is a reason why it's called puppy love right? I mean, you followed her like a lost little pup and did whatever she said like you were a fully grown dog who had some training. So, what's the difference between you being a dog and you being a dragon is? Not being able to breath fire? To me, that's not really much of a difference from what they were treating you like. Who knows, you being like this might actually get you more respect from them?>

"I, uh, I...." He tried to say something, but he did think about it. "No, I don't think they saw me as just another trained animal."

<Eh, then I think you're just a little bit blind to the truth then.> At that, he hung his head in thought and slight depression.

"Hey, why aren't you all hyper like before by the way?" He asked, trying to get his mind off of what she said.

<For one, I've been working all day to keep the sheep from attacking one another over who stole one of their bells. Second, it didn't seem like you were in the mood to play after what happened,> she said looking out into the fields. <And hey, sorry if I said something to upset ya. I just figured it would be better if someone pointed it to you.>

"Well, it's not something I didn't already know I guess. I mean I always had my doubts about how they saw me, I just hope Rarity isn't too put off by new appearance to give me a shot though," he said making her look at him like she wanted to tell him something, but couldn't bring herself to say it.

< I hope she does, because you seem really nice and loyal to your friends,> she said then muttered under her breath. <But I wouldn't hold your breath on it.>

"What was that last part?" He asked, slightly confused.

<Nothing, but hey how old are you? I mean before you were turned into a dog? Because you seemed pretty young, and I always heard them say you were a baby dragon and all,> she said, looking at him quizzically.

"Well, in pony years I would be about sixeen. But in dragon years, I have no idea because no pony knows that much about them." He gave a sad sigh.

<Wait, you were sixteen?> Once again he gave a nod in response. <Do you know how old you are in dog years then?> She asked, and before she could say it he responded with the answer.

"One hundred and twelve in dog years." She gave him a surprised look. "What? I lived with Twilight for all of my life, doing simple math like that comes easy to me now a days." He gave a shrug, and laid down and she could tell he was still thinking about what she said.

<Hey, come on old man I know what'll cheer you up!> She said, suddenly picking him up by his scruff.

"Hey, put me down and I'm not that old!" He yelled in surprise.

<Oh, you shouldn't be ashamed about how old you are. I think you look pretty good for being over a hundred!> She said, not letting him go but he was lucky to be in the position as she couldn't she the blush at the complement.

"Where are you taking me then if you aren't going to put me down?" He asked, crossing his legs.

<Well, I usually go on patrol around this time to look for any lose sheep, cow, or thief. I figured you could come along and I could also show you a few spots around the farm no pony goes!> She said, her hyperness returning at once.

"Do you think I could walk then? I don't feel right you carrying me around like this," he said, and at that he found himself on the ground.

<Oops, sorry about that. I just got a little carried away,> she said.

"No, I'm the one that got carried away by force." She hung her head in shame at the tone of his voice. "But, I guess since I really don't have anything better to do I guess we could hang out. Go on that patrol and all."

<Great! Let's get started then! And if you keep hanging around me, you'll get to know this farm better than any of those ponies!> She said, speeding off in a random direction.

"Why do I get the feeling like this might not go well?" He mumbled, and ran after the speeding dog.

Though she had to slow down for his sake, for some reason she seemed to be having the time of her life laughing as he was managing to barely keep up. But it seemed her laughter was contagious as he started to laugh as well, and he had no idea why. Maybe it was the freedom and rush from being faster than what he was before? Or maybe he was just finally able to relax and not think about how his friends thought about him, whether they saw him as an equal or not. Something that weighed on his mind for awhile now.

Author's Notes:

Yay, a new chapter! Finally right? I mean, it's been like over a month since I wrote for this one. Hope you all enjoyed, and remember to smile, smile, smile! Also, stay tuned for the third part for this!

A Night With Winona

He was out of breath by the time they got to a clearing that looked like it was almost completely forgotten about in the farm. Though that was hard to believe since he knew Applejack loved her farm to death and wouldn't allow a part of it to go unkempt like this. For there was tall grass, tree's that look like they haven't been harvested once since they've been planted, and an old plow in the middle.

<This is apart of the Fruit Bat sanctuary so the family doesn't really come to this part anymore.> Winona said before he could ask.

"Won't the Fruit Bats be mad that we're here then?" He asked tilting his head in slight confusion.

<Nope, they're actually pretty nice once you get to know them. They only really get mad if you try to take their food that they're trying to eat, which anypony would be if they were eating something.> Winona replied, hopping on the plow. <Now come up here and you get a great view of the night sky.>

"Um, okay?" He said, and walked over to the plow and tried to climb it but kept failing.

<Here let me help ya,> Winona said lowering her head and grabbing him by his scruff again making him grumble. <There ya are, now just sit down and look at the sky with me for a little bit.>

They did just that, and despite him seeing the same exact stars for most of his life he couldn't help but still admire them. He kept looking for a few moments, and looked at Winona to say something but stopped. For whatever reason, his words caught in his throat as he saw the stars reflect in her eyes.

<What? Do I have something on my face?> Winona asked noticing him staring at her.

"Huh, no, no there's nothing on your face. I was just about to ask if you were ready to show me something else, I mean you did sound like you wanted to show me more than this right?" He asked, blushing a little.

<Oh, but we just got here only like twenty minutes ago!> Winona said, pouting making him give a sigh.

"Fine, I mean you are the one whose conducting this tour. So I guess I can't really argue," he said.

<Good, now follow me because the next stop isn't too far.> He jumped in surprise as she hopped down and ran towards the trees.

"Sheesh, guilt me into staying here and then change her mind right after. That's something I guess I'm gonna have to get used to," he muttered as he managed to get off the plow and started following her.

He followed her, and this time managed to keep up with ease considering she was just walking this time. Wherever she wanted to take him, it must really not be that far or she just didn't want to lose him in the trees. Maybe a mixture of both, or maybe she just wanted to go on more of a leisurely stroll.

Though that didn't stop him from feeling a little uneasy knowing that that Apple family barely comes to this part of the farm any more. Finding that out did surprise him a little, but it didn't really bother him as much. But his uneasiness fell away every time he looked at how confident Winona was.

<So, Spike how do you like being a dog?> Winona asked, making him snap his attention from a tree that had nice and juicy apples on it.

"Well, it's different alright. I mean I can run faster than before, but I also can't breath fire which I liked doing since I could cook with my own breath. That comes in handy sometimes, but being a dog isn't that bad. Besides how it seems my friend treat me. I mean the only one that I know hasn't treated me any differently is Twilight, maybe Fluttershy. I don't know about the others though," he answered.

<What do you mean?> Winona asked.

"You know how Applejack and the rest of her family treated me, I mean Applejack tried but still slipped a little. I haven't really been around Rainbow Dash or Pinkie Pie, and the only time I've been around Fluttershy was when she gave me that check up. But that was because I am a dog and she knows how to treat animals better than the vet. But Twilight still seems to treat me like how she did before, or as much as she can considering I can't help her with her letters anymore." He answered.

<Hmm, well you forgot Rarity. I mean I saw how she treated you a little bit, but tell me a little more about it with her.> Winona said, dodging a low branch.

"Well, Rarity still treats me about the same. I mean she always ask me to carry her bags for her, and she does normally give me a gem as payment. But all I got today was a pat on the head, which didn't bother me because a pat on the head from her is way better than any gem." He replied, going into a dreamy look.

<Well, maybe I was a bit careless when I said they treat you like an animal. No offense, but even then I still think how they treat you is still unfair. I mean I've seen what you could do and I could tell that with your skills at your age is very impressive, and I mean in pony years.> Winona said.

"Yeah, usually most ponies aren't that good at what I do unless it's their cutie mark. But then they work on that talent for the rest of their lives," he said.

<Yeah, but you didn't have a cutie mark that told you what your special talent was. From what I've heard, you are a good cleaner, assistant, and cook. Despite what I saw when you owed Applejack,> Winona said, and he could see the little evil smirk on her face, though he was surprised he could tell.

"Hey, I was trying to hard that day. So of course I would mess up!" He defended.

<Oh, and yet you managed to count all the blades of grass on the farm without a problem and in one day.> Winona said, making him give a sigh of defeat.

"Alright, fine I wasn't on my A game that day. But like I said I was trying to hard and that's why I had so much trouble," he muttered.

<Well, anyways we're here!> Winona said, and stopped in front of a little pond that had some frogs going about, though the pond in the star light looked beautiful.

"Wow, this is so amazing," he said his eyes were widened.

<Yeah, I found it when I chased a sheep here. I always come here in order to relax after a days work,> Winona said, and he could see her visibly relax and let out a small sigh, and went up and took a drink from the pond. <Come on, it's very refreshing.>

"But isn't that unsanitary?" He asked going up the the pond.

<Not for dogs, I mean we have some of the cleanest mouths. We could eat raw meat if we wanted, and besides you were a dragon before so I'm sure it wouldn't be unhealthy for you.> Winona said, and he shrugged figuring the worst thing that could happen was he could get a little sick and have to be taken back to Fluttershy's.

"Mm, that's better than what I thought," he said after taking a sip.

<Now time for my favorite part when I come here,> Winona said.

"What do you mean by..." Just then he heard a splash before water come raining down onto him getting him wet. "Hey, what was that for!?"

<Oops, sorry but come on in. The water feels great!> Winona said, paddling around.

"Um, no thanks I'm not really in the mood for swimming." He said.

<Oh come on, you already took a drink out of it. Taking a little dip won't harm you,> Winona said, once again making him give a sigh.

"I guess I am a little hotter than usual," he muttered before slowing going into the pond.

<Well duh, you don't sweat when you're a dog remember?> Winona said before splashing him.

"Hey, and yeah I remember and take that!" He said managing to splash her back.

Their splash fight went on for a little bit before they both came out of the pond exhausted, and both laid at the side of the pond. They didn't talk wanting to catch their breaths, though he felt completely worn out. It wasn't until he almost fell asleep that he realized how late it was.

He was about to get up before he felt a paw on his back, and he looked to see Winona shake her head. At first he just wanted to go back to the house, but soon his weariness took hold. He felt himself fall to the ground, and the last thing he remembered was looking at the pond sparkling, and felt a body press up against his before he fell asleep.

Author's Notes:

Alright, another chapter. Hope you all enjoyed and remember to smile, smile, smile!

Confused

He shifted into something warm next to him, though he couldn't get back to sleep no matter what. That's when the warmth beside him moved and he felt a breeze hit him from that side. As his eyes opened to see where the warmth went, they widened at the scenery before he remembered that he had fallen asleep after swimming.

<Well good morning to you sleepy head!> Winona said, walking out from behind a tree giving him a quick nuzzle.

"What was that for?" He asked, both of them slightly blushing.

<Um, well that was for having fun with me last night. You did have fun right?> Winona asked, quickly recovering and started wagging her tail.

"Yeah, it was fun," he said though his blush grew as he looked into her eyes again, and remembered how he felt last night when he looked at them in the moon and starlight.

<Why are you blushing so much, huh?> Winona asked, giving him a quick nudge.

"N-no reason," he answered.

<Right, because when someone blushes that much it's for nothing.> Winona rolled her eyes. <Also, you stammered there. So, why are you blushing so much?> She asked again.

"Like I said, no reason." He replied.

<If you say so,> Winona said, making him give a sigh of relief, and he watched her go back into the trees. <Hey, I'm gonna get us a snack before we head back to the house.>

"Okay, what time is it anyways?" He asked.

<Well, I say about four in the morning. I say Applejack and Big Mac are awake by now and having breakfast. I'll be back in a second,> Winona replied, and once she was out of sight he gave another sigh of relief.

"What is up with me?" He muttered to himself walking over to the pond to get a drink. "First last night with looking at her eyes, and they took my breath away for some reason, and now I can't look at her eyes without thinking about it." Sitting there, he pondered over it before a frog popped up out of the water. "Oh, hey."

<So, you're this dog that was a dragon before that I've been hearing so much about?> The frog asked.

"That would be me, name's Spike." He introduced himself.

<Well hello there, my name's Kermit. And, um, sorry but I did over hear what you just said.> Kermit said, looking a little guilty.

"Great, though I don't suppose you know the answer to my problem? I mean, like I said for some reason last night when I looked her in the eyes while she was looking at the stars, I couldn't breath. Now I can't seem to look her in the eyes without thinking about it," He said.

<You're really asking someone you just met that question?> Kermit asked, and he could have sworn he saw the frog raise an eyebrow.

"Why not? I mean there really couldn't be any harm," he replied shrugging his shoulders.

<Fair enough, now you have to promise to hear me out on this okay?> Kermit asked.

"Alright, I promise," he replied.

<Now remember, you're the one who asked. But from that description, it sounds like you like her.> Kermit said.

"Well yeah I like her, she seems like a good friend." He said, tilting his head in slight confusion.

<No, not what I meant. What I meant is that it seems you might like her like her, do you follow?> Kermit asked, making him go red.

"Woah, look man I already like someone like that. That and no offense, but she's a dog." He said.

<So are you, and was this other someone a pony or a dragon?> He hung his head. <That's what I thought, so you shouldn't be ashamed about having a crush on someone the same species. And remember, you're the one who asked me what I thought, see ya!> Just like that, Kermit the frog dove back into the water leaving him to his thoughts.

<Hey, who were you talking with?> Winona said, making him jump. <Oops, sorry for scaring ya.>

"It's fine, but I was just talking to a frog named Kermit." He replied, and looked at her again. "So, what are we gonna eat?"

<Oh, well I talked with the fruit bats and they let me have some apples. Here you are, now let's eat!> Winona said, tossing him an apple where he caught it in the air with his mouth, and as he started to eat he looked back at her to see her staring at him.

"What?" He asked.

<Hmm, oh nothing.> Winona said, and started to eat her own apple. <So, you ready to head back?> She asked after they both finished eating.

"Yeah, let's go and thanks." He said giving her a grateful smile. "For everything last night, hope we can do it again sometime soon."

<Me to, and you're welcome!> Winona said, giving him a smile back. <So, let's go then.>

"Alright," he said following her. "Her eyes are kind of pretty," he muttered under his breath, and bumped into Winona. "Sorry, wasn't paying attention."

<No, wasn't your fault there. It was mine, I'm so sorry. I just, um, thought I saw something ahead.> Winona said, and as he looked up he could see a small blush that he thought was because she felt bad about stopping.

"I think it was kind of both of our faults then, you suddenly stopping and me not paying attention." He said, laughing a little.

<Good point, guess it is both out faults. Well, let's continue then,> Winona said as she started up a jog.

They continued at that pace for a good twenty minutes before emerging from the apple orchard and the Apple family house came into view. Neither one of them had spoken a word since they bumped into each other, though it really wasn't an awkward silence. It was much more comfortable, and as they walked up to the porch they saw Applejack waiting.

"There ya are girl, you go off to your secret spot again?" Applejack asked.

<Nope, went to the moon.> He couldn't help but snicker a little, and Applejack gave him a confused look.

"S-she said yup," he said holding back his laughter knowing all Applejack probably heard was a bark.

"If ya say so Spike, and I really am sorry about last night. I came to get ya, but you weren't here so I figured Winona must have come and kept ya company last night, right?" Applejack asked.

"Y-yeah, she did and she showed me a few things around the part of the farm you guys barely use." He answered.

"That's good to hear, just don't go telling Twi I let you spend the night outside. If I know her, she's probably still stressing out about her little problem, whatever it is." Applejack said.

"This coming from the Element of Honesty?" He said.

"It's not a lie if you don't give her the full details of what happened, but go ahead and tell her if ya want. I was just worried it might upset her, but I have to get to work. Come on Winona," Applejack said. "You know your way back Spike, I'll see ya soon and behave yourself boy..." He could see her wince a little. "Sorry."

"It's fine, I guess I'll see ya around." He said, giving a slightly depressed sigh.

<See ya Spike, and come over and we can play any time!> Winona said.

"Sure thing Winona, and see ya around." He said, feeling a little better as he started walking towards town.

Author's Notes:

Hope you all enjoyed, and remember to smile, smile, smile!

Not Funny

He was walking slowly thinking about what he said about Winona's eyes, wondering what made him think and say that. It was impossible he had some sort of crush on her, after all his eyes were always set on Rarity. But then why was he even thinking about it if he didn't feel something?

He didn't really want to go back to the library while he was being trouble by this, and bothering Twilight about it since she seemed to have a lot on her plate dealing with her own crush. But he needed someplace to think, and possibly get freshened up. That's when he got the idea to go over to Pinkie's to at least get a snack.

So without wasting time he started to run towards Sugar Cube Corner, hoping that Pinkie wouldn't bother him to much about what's on his mind. It really wasn't long before the shop came into view and he could only imagine what he might get, that's when he stopped. He remembered he didn't have any money on him, and he doubted that the Cake's would give him anything for free.

Giving a sigh he stared walking aimlessly around town trying not to really think about anything when he ran into something large and hairy. When he looked up a bear was standing over him looking down at him with curiosity. He almost panicked when the bear picked him up, but calmed down when the bear put him back down on his feet.

<You need to be more careful there, don't want to run into and accidentally hurt them.> The bear said with a tiny smile. <You okay though little pup?>

"Um, uh, y-yeah I'm alright," he replied a little nervous.

<Wait, you can actually speak pony?> The bear asked in surprise.

"Well, uh, yeah I mean I'm not exactly a dog, or at least I wasn't one." He mumbled.

<Not a...Oh you must be Spike, and sorry if I'm making you nervous, I tend to do that to others. But I'm Harry the bear, and I heard about you from both Owlowiscious and Fluttershy. Can't believe you used to be that little dragon, but what's on your mind to make you miss me?> Harry asked sitting down to show he wasn't gonna go anywhere.

"Oh, yeah I've met you a few times. Well, um, there's nothing really on my mind. I was just wondering around not paying attention to anything and ran into you, and sorry about that." He said, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.

<Ha, well why were you just wondering then if there's nothing on your mind?> Harry asked. <I mean you live with that purple Unicorn Twilight right?>

"Yeah, I do live with her and really there's nothing really on my mind. I just wanted to take a walk around town, is that a crime?" He asked.

<Well, no I guess not.> Harry said putting a claw up to his lip in thought. <Well hey, if you have any problems you're more than welcome to come and find me okay?>

"Sure can do big guy, now go and get yourself some honey." He said, and shrunk back a little at the look the bear was giving him.

<That wasn't funny, I'm allergic to honey.> Harry said.

"Oh, I'm sorry I didn't know." He apologized.

<It's no problem that and also some bears consider that racist so be careful if you run into any other bears. Mostly because not all of them are as nice as me.> Harry said getting up and started to walk towards the forest. <See ya around pup, and tell Winona I said hi.>

"Um, sure and again sorry about the honey thing." He replied, and giving a sigh. "Now, where do I go?"

<Oh, there you are Mr. Spike, Ms. Twilight wanted you to head over to Sugar Cube Corner. From what I heard they have a surprise for you, though you didn't hear that from me okay?> Owlowiscious said, making him jump slightly.

"A-alright, thanks I guess," he said giving the owl a smile. "Hey Owlowiscious, how is Twilight holding up?"

<Oh, she seems to be stressed but not as stressed enough to send the entire town into mindless ponies who fight over a toy.> Owlowiscious replied.

<That's good to hear,> he replied.

<Did you just speak in dog?> Owlowiscious asked in surprise.

"No, I talked normally. What's strange is that I'm able to understand you," he replied rolling his eyes. <Well see you later.>

<Yeah, see you later.> Owlowiscious said, and shook his head. <Wonder if he'll realize he is starting to speak in dog, maybe somepony will tell him at the party.>

He once again set out to Sugar Cube Corner, knowing that if he had shown up earlier it wouldn't have mattered since Pinkie had some kind of magic to make things appear and disappear. Though did know what kind of surprise this was, considering where Owlowiscious told him to go. He was hoping that this party would help take his mind off of things for a bit.

Once again Sugar Cube Corner came into view though this time he didn't stop knowing that he would make them worry if he didn't show. When he got to the door he could hear whispers on the other side and noticed the lights where off. So right away he knew that this was a classic Pinkie surprise party.

"Surprise!" All of the ponies jumped out and yelled when he opened the door.

"Hey guys," he said waving his paw.

"So were ya surprised Spike? Were ya? Huh? HUH?" Pinkie asked getting uncomfortably close.

"Um, uh, yeah I was very surprised." He answered moving his eyes from side to side looking for an escape. "Uh, hey someone is trying to pop those balloons over there."

"Oh well, I have plenty more. Now come on over and let's mingle!" Pinkie said picking him up and started playing music to dance to.

After a little bit, he managed to get away from Pinkie thanks to a little help from Gummy. Who doesn't even talk much as it turns out, though he does seem a little scary despite him being a baby alligator when he does speak. Once he managed to sit down he let out a sigh, he noticed a few ponies giving him a strange look and just shrugged it.

"Hey Spike, it's time for presents!" Pinkie said suddenly standing in front of him.

"What? But it's not my birthday or anything," he said confused.

"I know, but I figured it would make you feel better." Pinkie said, dragging him over to a table that wasn't there five minutes ago. "Now, there aren't that many but I hope that's okay?"

"It's fine I mean like I said, it's not my birthday or anything." He replied seeing that there was only about six on the table, probably from his six friends.

"Okay, well which one do you want to open first?" Pinkie asked, letting him take a moment to think.

After deciding which one to open first, Pinkie grabbed it and let him manage to figure out how to unwrap it. Once all presents were unwrapped he looked over them. He ended up getting a book, a pie, a nice looking gem encrusted collar, some balloons, a autographed picture of the Wonderbolts, and a tag with his name on it.

"Um, thanks guys." He said giving them a smile, and noticing that the other guess seemed to have disappeared.

"No problem Spike," Applejack said. "Now I have to get home, see y'all tomorrow."

" Alright, and I guess we all better go. It is starting to get late, you coming Spike?" Twilight asked avoiding looking at both Fluttershy and Pinkie.

"Actually, do you mind if me and Rainbow borrow him for a little bit longer? We have a few other gifts to give him." Pinkie asked.

"Um, sure that's no problem with me, how about you Spike?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah, that's fine," he said.

"Great, bye Twilight, bye Applejack, bye Rarity, bye Fluttershy!" Pinkie said.

"Bye." They all said at the same time and they started going through the door.

"So, what did you two want to give me?" He asked once the rest of their friends left.

"Oh, just an extra couple gifts." Rainbow said with a grin he knew from somewhere but couldn't quite place it. "But how's it been so far, because I've heard it's been ruff?"

"Well, it's been going a lot better than expected besides a few things here and there." He answered.

"Good to hear, just don't go chasing any cat's okay?" Dash said with a little smirk.

"Oh ha ha, very funny." He said rolling his eyes.

"Yeah Dashie, don't go barking up the wrong tree!" Pinkie said with a slight giggle.

"Well, it's not like I'm gonna mark my territory on it." Dash said, making both of them chuckle a little more.

"Are you two making fun of me?" He asked.

"Making fun of you? We aren't making fun of you silly, we just wanted to have a little laugh and thought you needed one to." Pinkie said.

"By making dog jokes? You know, when I opened Rarity's gift that was fine, but now you two are making jokes about me being a dog? I mean not as many as I thought you two would do, and to top it off that's what you two really wanted me to stay here for? So you can make these jokes without any other pony around? That's just plain out mean and cruel you know that? I may have said everything has been going good and better than expected, but somethings are still getting to me." He stared.

"Spike.." Pinkie tried.

"No, if it's another dog joke I don't want to hear it. I mean first there was Applejack and her family treating me like a dog, then Rarity giving me a collar, and Fluttershy giving me dog tags, and now you two with these stupid jokes? I'm starting to really think you guys really do see me as nothing more than another animal. I mean do you guys know how hard I already had it as a baby dragon? You all used me as your official luggage carry where ever we went, and always made fun of me then for what I wore to cook, or how old I looked. I just...I just need to be alone for a little while." He said running out the door.

"Sheesh, we were only joking, right Pinkie? Pinkie?" Dash asked, looking from the door over to her friend to see her mane deflate. "Oh come on Pinkie, what's the matter?"

"I-I wanted to make him feel better, not worse." Was all Pinkie said, before grabbing a hidden gift from under the table and slowly walked up the stairs. "I didn't even give him his big surprise gift."

"Great, now we have two upset friends. Best go and tell the others what happened." Dash said, giving a sigh and started flying out the door. "Wonder how long Spike has been holding all that in anyways? Didn't sound like he got all of what he wanted to say out there." She shrugged her shoulders as she flew.

Author's Notes:

Hope you guys enjoyed, and remember to smile, smile, smile!

Getting It Out

"You two did what?!" A purple flash came from the library.

"We only made a few jokes, so just calm down." Rainbow retorted.

"Rainbow, don't you remember what happened when we teased him about that apron he wears?" She asked, now pacing back and forth to try to calm herself down.

"Of course I remember," Rainbow said flinching a little.

"So why would you two think it would be a good idea teasing him about being a dog? I mean it's only been a couple of days since we came back, how do you think he actually feels about this whole situation?" She said, giving the blue pegasus an angry glare. "I mean he's already dealing with a lot, I mean from what you said he feels as if we just use him. To top it off, he is probably still stressed out about being able to talk with animals."

"Wait, he can do what?" Rainbow asked.

"You see, after we got back from Canterlot and he came to the library he apparently started hearing Owlowiscious talking to him like a normal pony. It made him faint, then it was confirmed when Applejack brought Winona over and she started talking to him making him faint again.But that's besides the point right now, just tell me how you two honestly thought teasing him about this was a good idea in the slightest?" She asked, holding Rainbow down with her magic so she couldn't fly away.

"W-we just thought it would be funny, and it would get him to cheer up a little." Rainbow said, shrinking a little.

"Well, next time you want to cheer somepony up by making jokes, make sure they aren't jokes about them. Now, go get the other's to cheer up Pinkie. I have to go find Spike," she said and started walking towards the door before stopping. "Oh, and one more thing Rainbow."

"Yeah?" Rainbow asked hesitantly.

"You best remember that he is my little brother, and I really don't like it when other's make him feel upset like this. You may be one of my best friends, but he's my family and I do try my best to protect him. Even if a lot of the time it's actually him protecting me in some way, the very least I can do is be there for him. Do we understand each other on that?" She asked, her tone making everything as clear as it can be.

"Yeah, I get ya, but he doesn't seem to feel like your always there for him. I mean he did say that he felt like we all just used him as our official luggage carrier when we go places. That means you to," Rainbow snapped before flying away leaving Twilight with her thoughts.

"But I don't..." She shook her head to clear her head. "No time for that right now, gotta find Spike."

---

He couldn't stop running, he really wanted to and turn around and say he was sorry, but for some reason he couldn't. But then, why should he be the one to apologize? They've treated him more like some sort of servant more than anything else, even Twilight seemed to be using him more like a servant than an assistant since they moved here.

"No, not Twilight, it's just the other's!" He screamed making him finally stop, though he ended up on the ground out of breath and tears running down his face. "W-why am I crying?"

There was no reason he should be crying, at least none that he could honestly think of. Did he really feel that bad about snapping at Rainbow and Pinkie? No, he felt a little guilty about it but not enough where he would cry. Then why was he crying?

That's when he remembered what he said, and remembered all the things he wanted to say but couldn't bring himself to say them. He realized that's why he was crying, be he didn't let it all out, but how could he let it all out? What he wanted to say wouldn't have made much sense, and would have been a lot more nasty then what he would have wanted.

"Spike!" He heard Twilight call, but he didn't want to answer.

She did start treating him a bit differently since they did move to Ponyville, but she has always been there when he needed her. So why didn't he want to answer one of the only ponies he knew he could always trust? He knew it wasn't fair to punish her for what other's do.

"Spike?" He looked over to see Twilight's concerned eyes, and before he could say or do anything she wrapped him in a tight hug. "Are you okay?" She asked, not letting her grip loosen.

"N-no, I'm not." He answer burring his head into her shoulder.

"Spike, tell me what's bothering you. From the sounds of it, you've been holding back your emotions. You know how unhealthy that is? Especially for somepony your age?" She asked, after a few minutes to let him calm down.

"I-I rather not talk about it..." He got stopped by Twilight giving him a glare.

"Spike, I've always been here for you. I may have been a shut in before coming to Ponyville, but I always made sure to be there for you. So, please tell me what's wrong and why you said what you did to Rainbow and Pinkie?" She pleaded.

"I-I think that's the problem," he muttered.

"What do you mean? You don't think I'm being over protective, do you?" She asked.

"No, that's not what I meant. What I meant is that ever since we came to Ponyville, you've been treating me less and less like an assistant and more like some sort of servant! You and the other's all do, making me carry all of your luggage when we go somewhere! I'm usually the one who cooks for everyone! I may be a kid in your eyes, but I think I deserve more respect than what I get from all of you!" He started.

"Spike..."

"No Twilight, you said I need to get this out there. For the longest time now I haven't felt like I'm as important as anypony else! Like I'm just some sort of slave, or servant, or just another animal to you all. Even when I was just a baby dragon you all treated me like that, in feels like you all treated me more so then than now. Though it does feel like its gotten worse now, at least in how you guys honestly see me. I mean I got a collar and tags as gifts, and you all make jokes at my expense!" He yelled. "Sometimes, I feel like nothing more than the butt of every joke. Like I'm just a second class citizen to you all."

"I-I don't know what to say Spike, other than I'm sorry that I failed you as your older sister. I was supposed to be looking after you, and I thought I was doing the right thing. But, you're right, we have treated you poorly and it's my fault." She said.

"W-what? That's not what I was saying," he said but was interrupted by a hoof.

"It is my fault, like I said I'm supposed to be your older sister and protect you. I not only let the other's treat you like that, but I started doing to. I should have done something, I should have said something to the other's. But I didn't, and so I failed you, something that I never wanted to happen. All I can do or say now, is I'm really sorry, sorry I couldn't be a good older sister to you." She said, tears coming to her eyes.

"B-but you have been the best sister, you may have made some mistakes, but nopony is perfect. And I'm really sorry for dumping all of that on you," he said giving her a nuzzle.

"It's okay Spike, you needed to get that out there just like I needed to get what I had to say out as well. But listen, it's getting late let's get home and to bed and we can talk about this tomorrow, okay?" She asked.

"That sounds good, and thanks Twilight for letting me vent." He replied.

"Anytime Spike, anytime." She said, putting him on her back and started to trot back to the library, and when it came into view both of them let out a sigh. "At least somethings will never change."

"Yeah, at least this tree will always be here for us." He said, giving a yawn before hopping down. "Well, goodnight Twilight, and I really am sorry for laying that all on you."

"Don't worry about, and goodnight Spike." She said, waving to him as he went up the stairs, and once he disappeared she let out another sigh as she walked over to her personal journal. "Figuring out my feelings can wait for now, Spike is more important." With that, she shut her journal before going to bed.

Author's Notes:

Well, I say things are about to get awkward between all of them and Spike. Also, I would like to empathize that Twilight is, at very least, considered his older sister so she would try to have his best interest at heart and would never intentionally hurt him. But, I still hoped you enjoyed and remember to smile, smile, smile!

A Talk

He woke up to something shuffling in the kitchen below, and couldn't help but instantly become wide awake and run downstairs. Knowing that it wasn't a burglar, but something far, far worse. It was Twilight trying to cook again, and he didn't want a repeat of what happened the last time she did. Just thinking about it made him think about the scrubbing he did for two days straight.

"Twilight, don't touch anything else!" He said as he came barging into the kitchen.

"Why? I'm just making us some cereal," Twilight couldn't help but laugh a little. "Sorry Spike, I just thought you needed a break from your job, and I knew better than to try and cook again. I mean after what you told me last night, I want to make it up to you in any way I can. But then, you'll also need to tell me more of what's bothering you, at least tell me what you told me last night since you've gotten a good night's sleep."

"R-right, what I said last night. Listen Twilight, I really am sorry for that..." He was interrupted by her shaking her head.

"it was something I needed to hear Spike, you should always tell me when somethings bothering you. Especially when it's something like that, and I really am sorry for not being the best sister I could have been. I should have done better to protect you," she started and stopped herself before she started to tear up. "Enough of that right now, it's time for some breakfast."

"Twilight, you know how I'm feeling, but are you okay?" He asked as he went to sit down at the table.

"I'm just concerned with you, I guess just feeling a little guilty is all. And I deserve it, putting my feelings before your's." She said, giving a sigh.

"Twilight, I'm not gonna tell you anything else until you tell me what's up with you. Does this have anything to do with your crush on Fluttershy?" He asked, making her eyes go wide a little but she just sighed again and shook her head.

"Spike listen, my problems really shouldn't be your's after whats been said. You have so much on your plate already it sounds, and I can handle this situation with myself." She said.

"Yeah, I do have a bit on my plate but I've always been there for you, and you've always been there for me even if it doesn't seem like it. I do think you've treated me a lot more differently now that we moved here, but that only comes natural when you make friends. I just want to help you, like you want to help me with my feelings of feeling like a servant of some kind. That, and you know you can get carried away when it comes with personal issues, especially when it comes to your friends." He said, giving her a little glare at the end.

"Alright Spike, if you insist," she said taking a deep breath. "I went over to Fluttershy's to tell her about my feelings for her, but then she started to get really close making me nervous so I couldn't tell her, and then she told me that Pinkie has feelings for me, but I have feelings for her and not Pinkie, at least I don't think I do, at least not at first, and I just don't know what to do, so I started making list, and then last night happened, and I really, really don't know what to do now, because I want to help you, but I also want to sort out my feelings."

His draw dropped at that, after all it was very rare when she talked with only one breath, and it reminded him of Pinkie. It took him a few moments to recover from the shock of hearing what happened. Another few seconds ran by as he collected his thoughts, which since last night had been scrambled pretty bad.

"So, Pinkie has a crush on you?" She nodded. "H-have you tried talking with them since? I mean about your own feelings?" He asked.

"Like I said, I've been trying to sort out my feelings. But that's enough of my problem, now I think it's..." This time he interrupted her.

"Twilight, sometimes the best way to sort out your feelings for somepony is to tell them. Isn't that what you always tell me to do about Rarity?" He asked.

"As I'm sure you know, it's not that easy. Now I am serious, and I know this is me changing subjects, but today isn't about me, it's about you and your feelings of how you've been treated. Now like you just said, you've been feeling more like a servant or second class citizen, especially since we've move here. And honestly, now that I look back I don't blame you for feeling that way." She said, looking at him with pity.

"Twilight, you are not just about to change the subject like that!" He yelled.

"I don't blame you for not wanting to talk about it, I don't think anypony would. And yes I can, because this is more important. Fluttershy and Pinkie are some of my best friends, and will still be there when I do work up the courage to talk to them. You might not always be around, you might move to another town or city when your old enough. Granted, the Princesses might have to pull some strings depending on how you feel in two years. But for right now, we need to talk about how you feel and how we can make it up to you." She said.

"We?" He asked.

"Yes we, as in our friends. They have a right to know that they made you feel this way, just like you let me know, only with a calmer mind. Actually, they don't have a right, they need to know how they treated you, how I treated you isn't fair. Things will be a bit difficult, but sometimes for wounds to heal you need to tear it open again." She said.

"That's a bit of a stupid saying if you ask me, and exactly why should I tell them something that they should have realized a long time ago?" He asked.

"Because ponies can be blind to the obvious, I could go into scientific mode and explain the statistics of all of it, but I don't think you want to hear all of that. Beside's that, like I said they need and have a right to know. If you don't tell them and get it out int the open, then you're going to do more damage to yourself than anypony else. I know you might not want to hurt their feelings like how they hurt yours, especially Rarity's, but it honestly needs to be said." She replied.

"Can I at least think about it? You know, get my thoughts in order?" He asked, and she nodded.

"Of course, take all of the time you need and remember I'm here for you if you need me." She said, wrapping him in a tight hug.

"Y-yeah, and if you need help with you know, then don't be afraid to tell me okay?" He asked.

"Deal," she said letting go of him to give him a warm smile.

Author's Notes:

"We try so hard to hide everything we're really feeling from those who probably need to know our true feelings the most. People try to bottle up their emotions, as if it's wrong to have natural reactions to life." Colleen Hoover, Maybe Someday.

Alright, time for a random fact about myself. I gained all of my weight in one summer, when I was nine and barely lost any since. But anyways, hope you all enjoyed and remember to smile, smile, smile!

A Little Thinking

He couldn't really get his thoughts together ever since this morning with Twilight, even if he did have a moment of clarity his mind didn't want to think about his problem. After breakfast, he decided to take a walk to see if that would help him get his thoughts together. But everything seemed to still be buzzing around in his head.

"Hey, get out of here you good for nothing mutt!" He yelped as he felt something poke him in his ribs.

"What's your deal man?" He asked, and when he turned he recognized the cherry vendor who tried to take advantage of Fluttershy.

"Wait, you're that Spike kid right? Princess Twilight's little assistant?" The stallion asked, getting a bit nervous.

"Uh, yeah, and you're that guy who tried to make my friend pay twenty Bits for one lousy cherry." He rolled his eyes.

"Listen, I'm sorry for that, but that's business for ya, and I'm sorry about calling ya a mutt. I didn't recognize you," The stallion said.

"Save it, I'm going anyways." He said and started to walk away.

"Hey kid! Do you think you can get Twilight to give me an endorsement since I apologized?" He heard the stallion call.

"Like she would ever endorse somepony like you!" He called back feeling a bit angry. <Sheesh, the nerve of someponies.>

He couldn't help but to let out a little cough, and wondered if there was a dog or something around speaking what he was thinking. Though he didn't put much thought into that as he continued to walk. His thoughts once again returning to his main problem of how he was going to tell the other's how he felt about how they treated him.

No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't stand to think about their reactions, from confused, to angry, to even crying. He knew Twilight was right when she said they needed to know, and he should speak from the heart. But that was harder than anything really.

<Are you lost in your world? I do that to sometimes!> He jumped in surprise at the sudden statement, and when he looked he saw none other than Winona.

"Oh, um, y-yeah I guess I was," he said, though Winona could tell he was distracted and upset.

<So, what's on your mind?> Winona asked.

"Oh, um, i-it's nothing really," he replied.

<You know I'm better at reading emotions better than ponies, most dogs can. So, I'm gonna guess you told somepony close to you something you've kept to yourself for awhile now, and you're trying to figure out how to tell others about this as well?> He couldn't help but stare in amazement.

<H-have you been hanging around Pinkie Pie?> He asked, though as he looked at her he could see a strange look in her eyes, like she wanted to say something but didn't know whether to say it or not.

<Well, no I haven't hung around that pink mare in awhile. So, I was right?> Winona asked.

"Um, y-yeah, you were pretty close." He said, giving a sigh of defeat.

<So, who did you tell and what did you tell them?> Winona asked.

"Um, I'm not sure I should tell you. I mean, we pretty much just stared hanging out." He answered rubbing his paw on the back of his head.

<That's fine, you can tell me when your ready. But, it could help,> Winona said.

<Yeah, I know, but still I don't feel comfortable telling someone I just became friends with. That, and we kind of already talked about it.> He said.

<Oh, you mean about how your friends treat you. Also, you know you're starting to bark right?> Winona asked.

"Um, I've been told that, but I don't hear it, so I'm starting to think all of you are in on some kind of joke. But, yeah, about how they treat me." He said.

<Yeah, we're all in on a joke. So, you finally told one of them how you felt huh? Let me guess, it was Twilight, your sister right?> Winona asked.

"Yeah, she took it pretty well I guess. But she wants me to tell the others, and that's why I got caught up in thought again because I'm trying to figure out how to put it into words without hurting them too much." He replied.

<Well, something like that can't be said without upsetting somepony. How they react is up to them, there will be hurt feelings, but if they care for you they'll understand and they'll be better for it.> Winona said.

"You're right, but still I would like to think about it a bit more." He said.

<Actually, how about this. You don't think about it, instead you come with me and hang out. It'll probably help you get some thoughts together, you know what they always say, when you don't think about it it'll come to you!> Winona said, her tail wagging.

"I don't know, I mean sometimes thinking about it helps." He said.

<Oh, please? I want to hang out and it might help you to not think for a little bit.> Winona said, giving him big puppy dog eyes which he couldn't take his eyes from.

"A-alright, but only for a little bit okay?" He said.

<Yes, let's go!> Winona said pushing him in a seemingly random direction.

"Um, where are we going?" He asked.

<It's a surprise!> Winona said.

"Well, hopefully wherever you take me it'll help clear my head." He muttered.

Author's Notes:

Alright guys, sorry for the little overdue chapter. Like I'm sure a lot of people, I got pretty busy. Hope you all enjoyed and remember to smile, smile, smile!

A Little Surprise

He honestly didn't know where they were going, but he really did hope it would help clear his head. If anything, it just might be fun to just hang out with somepony who seemed to know how to deal with these problems. Despite her being all calm one moment and completely hyper the next, though he guess that was part of the reason he liked her.

<So, are you about ready to have a little fun?> Winona asked, her tail wagging.

"Um, sure, but what did you have in mind? And where are we?" He asked, looking around.

<Oh, we're just outside of Ponyville. I just want to introduce you to some friends of mine.> Winona said, before going over to a tree and tapped it four times.

"What do you mean friends? What did you just do?" He asked.

<Oh, just a few wild critters that Fluttershy took care of. That's just how I call them,> Winona said rolling her eyes like that should be obvious.

"Are they nice?" He asked.

<Duh, if they weren't I wouldn't hang out with them every now and again.> Winona said, and just then something made a bush rustle a bit. <That must be them!>

A squirrel jumped out first, followed by some other woodland creatures like a rabbit, a deer, and a lot more like that. He was a bit stunned at how many of the woodland creatures were, but it kind of made him a little nervous. They all came and said hello to Winona, and once the stream of them started to calm down they all started talking among themselves.

<Can I have your attention please?> Winona called, making all of the animals look towards her. <Thank you for coming, as you know we have a new friend here! I think it's time we make him feel welcomed! It's time for a classic woods party!>

"Wait, what?" He asked, feeling a little uneasy. "You didn't say anything about a party!"

<I told you it was a surprise, and how else could we clear your mind enough?> Winona asked.

"Um, I don't know, maybe a walk? A swim? Maybe play a game?" He said.

<Oh, just think of it as all of that. It's time to get started!> Cheering started to go throughout the crowd.

As the party began, the woodland creatures came up and started talking with him and soon he started to relax and actually started having a good time. They were pretty nice, making sure he get's involved in all of the events that they set up within minutes. He was having the best time, it was like a Pinkie party only with woodland creatures.

<I see your enjoying yourself,> Winona said as he was talking with a squirrel.

"Oh yeah, this is great!" He said, giving her a big smile. "I just met this little guy, Jerry. He's pretty cool."

<Yup, sure am. Your pretty cool yourself,> Jerry said.

<That's good to hear, but do you mind if you come with me for a bit?> Winona asked.

"Uh, sure no problem. I'll catch up to you later Jerry," he said and started walking with her.

<Yeah, see ya!> He heard Jerry call.

"So, what are we gonna do?" He asked.

<Oh, I just figured we could see if your still having trouble with thinking about what to tell your pony friends.> Winona said, making him pause for a moment.

"Well, since I started to have fun I really haven't put much thought into it yet. I guess I'll just say what comes from my heart, or whatever." He said.

<There ya go, because nothing goes as plans. So it's better to speak from the heart,> Winona said. <Here we are.>

"Huh, what?" He asked and took a look around. "Where are we?"

<Oh, just another part of the surprise.> Winona said. <Okay, cover your eyes.>

He did as he was told, and he couldn't help but wag his tail which apparently made Winona laugh. For some reason, his heart flutter for a moment when he did hear her laugh, he couldn't explain it. Though the moment was interrupted when he heard something coming, and for some reason smelled frosting, but he wasn't complaining because it smelled good.

<Alright, open your eyes now!> Winona said.

He opened his eyes, and his mouth dropped as he drooled as he saw a good size cake in front of him. Looking up, he saw who was carrying the cake, and couldn't help but smile a little as he saw Harry standing there. The bear returned his smile, and laughed a little.

<Well, what are you waiting for? Dig in!> Winona said, and Harry put the cake down, and he started taking some bites. <Oh come on, take bigger bites!>

"Alright, fine," he said taking a whole mouth full before chewing it all up. "You want a bite?"

<It's your cake,> Winona said.

"Yeah, and I choose to share it with you two, now dig in!" He said, Winona and Harry looking at each other before digging in.

<That was good,> Winona said.

<I have to agree,> Harry said.

"Yeah, but where did you get that cake?" He asked.

<Oh, I told Fluttershy we wanted something to help cheer you up and suggested a cake. So she went to get one from Pinkie Pie, and Harry went and picked it up.> Winona answered.

"Huh, well thank you guys. It's been great so far!" he said, before standing up.

He went over to pick up and the remains of the cake, and then he felt something bump against his head. As he looked up, his eyes met with Winona's though that didn't hold his attention for long. What caught his attention was how close their muzzles were, they were actually pressing against each other. Quickly backing off, he had a little blush on him.

"Um, uh, s-sorry." He said, taking steps back.

<Sorry for what?> Winona asked. <For bumping heads or the little muzzle bump?>

<Um Winona, for a dog that spends time with ponies more than I do, but you don't know?> Harry asked, and Winona shook her head in confusion. <Winona, that little muzzle bump is a normal kiss for ponies.>

<S-so, we just kissed?> Winona looked at him, and he nodded though very embarrassed, and before another word could be said he turned and ran off.

Author's Notes:

Well, that was a bit of a surprise wasn't it? Hope you enjoyed, and remember to smile, smile, smile!

Advice

He was now more confused more than ever, of course why wouldn't he be? After having to tell Twilight what he thought, and promising to tell their friends, and then kissing a dog and actually liked it. With as much confusion that's in his head, he was surprised his head wasn't splitting from the stress, especially of the image of locking eyes with Winona, who had been nothing but kind and understanding since they started talking.

"What's going on with me?" He asked under his breath.

"Spike? What are you doing?" He lifted his head to see Fluttershy standing there in front of him, and as he looked around he realized he had wondered by her cottage.

"Oh, just...thinking." He replied.

"Does this have anything to do with what Twilight told us?" He gave a sigh and nodded. "Oh, well sorry to bother you then. But, do you mind if I ask how she's doing? After I told her about Pinkie Pie, she seemed so confused and stressed." Fluttershy asked.

"She's just dealing with some emotional stuff herself, can't say more than that. Though I think it would help if you and Pinkie would show up for moral support, just be careful because if you two show up at the same time it might cause her more trouble." He said.

"Why would us both showing up cause her more trouble?" Fluttershy asked.

"Oh, just forget I said anything. I have to go now and get my thoughts together, bye!" He said running away with a confused Fluttershy behind him.

He honestly didn't know what he was thinking telling her that, Twilight didn't need anymore problems and neither did he. But he couldn't take back what he told her now, and she would tell Pinkie what he told her and they would go visit Twilight together, and give her more stress. He stopped panting, his mind now even more racing.

<Why is my mind so cloudy?> He asked himself, knowing that he just needed to take on one problem at a time. It was time for him to stop running, but he had one more stop before he went home to talk to Twilight.

Though it took a good moment before he got his bearings and knew which way to go, and he couldn't help but walk a bit slow. He knew his mind was slowing him down, even if he didn't know why. But he knew he wasn't that far from his destination, the reason why he wanted to go here first was for advice. It honestly wasn't long before her house came into view, and he gave a knock before entering.

"Hello, Rarity?" He asked.

"I'll be right there Spikey, but I'm a bit busy at the moment. So, just have a seat and relax for now." Rarity called.

He took the seat, and looked around and he definitely saw how busy she had been over the past couple of days. Though his attention was torn when he saw a white fuzz ball looking at him, hissed and walk away. It took about five minutes before Rarity finally walked in, looking disheveled, though she mumbled something before walking past him and then turned around and walked to back to her room.

"Oh, Spikey, in a moment can you come and help me?" She called from the room.

"Um, sure, but I really came here to get advice!" He called back.

"I can give you advice when your helping," she called.

"Okay, just call when you need me." He said.

<Let me ask you this, do you still like my owner like I knew you did?> He heard a voice ask, and he turned around to see Opalescence sitting right above him on the couch cushion.

"Um, yeah, why?" He asked.

<Oh, nothing of importance. Though for a long time, I wanted to save you from a lot of trouble, especially now that your nothing more than a mangy mutt.> Opalescence said.

"Hey," he said.

<No offense, but honestly you're not a pure breed. But, let me save you some time and trouble, even if it's already too late. My pony, she doesn't like you how you like her. She never has, and never will especially now more than ever since your a dog. I mean since you were a dragon, you might of had a chance but not now. Not to mention how young you were, shoot most of the time she only pitied you and that's why she allowed you to help her so much. Sometimes, she used your little crush just to get you to do what she wanted you to do.> Opalescence said.

"Yeah right, like she would do that." He said rolling his eyes.

<Believe me or not, that's what she did. I mean think about it, just about every time you're here she always has you do something. She just used your crush to her benefit, as mean as it sounds. I doubt she realizes she does it, but sadly that's just part of her personality. It really is a shame, because I know she does care for you like she cares for all of her friends but she just can't help but use you.> Opalescence said stretching out.

"Oh, Opalescence you bad kitty, you know you aren't allowed on there!" Rarity said, lifting the cat with her magic and putting her down on the floor.

<Just remember, she does care for you as a friend, but only as a friend.> Opalescence said before walking away.

"As it turns out, I didn't need your help with what I thought. Now what did you need advice on? Why are you looking at me that way?" Rarity asked.

"Oh, um no reason, I was just wondering something." He answered.

"Well, what were you wondering? It must be a bit important if you came to me." Rarity said, and scanned him over. "Does this involve a girl?"

"Huh, what?" He looked around nervously and giving a sigh. "Yeah, it kind of does. You see, I kind of, accidentally, might of kissed her."

"Your first kiss! Congratulations Spikey!" Rarity squealed. "Who was it?"

"Why do you care?" He asked.

"What? Of course I care Spike, why would think I don't care?" Rarity asked.

"Every time I come over here, you always seem to have something for me to do, and I know you know about my crush on you! I know you used that to get me to do stuff for you, so why would you care about this?" He asked.

"Spike, I-I do care for you if your saying I don't. I care for you as a friend, and I am sorry if I did use your crush on me to my own advantage. If I did that, then I really am sorry." Rarity said.

"Are you though? Are you really sorry for using my feelings like that when you use your charm on stallions all the time to get them to do what you want when you want? Do you even feel sorry for them that you made them think they had a chance and then crushed them, took their time away?" He asked, and before she could say anything else he ran out.

Why did he run out, the answer was simple. Because he didn't want to hurt her more, he had said all he wanted to say and anything else would just be overkill. He had honestly wanted advice, but instead he ended up telling her how she made him feel a good part of the time. But, he just couldn't stand to be there when she would break out in tears, for that would make him feel even worse.

Author's Notes:

Hope you enjoyed, and remember to smile, smile, smile!

An Awkward Meeting

She was busy finishing writing her report on conjuring magic light orbs that act like candles when she heard somepony knocking. Sighing, she got up and started to walk towards the door not bothering to say she was coming. But as soon as she got to the door, it suddenly burst open making it hit her in her snout.

"Oww!" She yelled rubbing her nose.

"Oh, sorry Twilight I didn't realize you were there." She heard the familiar bubbly voice say.

"It's fine Pinkie, but next time wait until the pony opens the door themselves and invites you in. Is my nose bleeding?" She asked.

"Hmm, nope!" Pinkie replied, and after she stopped rubbing her nose the situation in front of her caught up.

"Oh, um, uh, h-hi Pinkie what are you doing here?" She asked feeling a little uneasy.

"Just checking in on ya because Fluttershy seemed worried. She said that you were like super stressed, and acting funny when you came over there, so I was just making sure you were fine. Though don't worry, Fluttershy will be here shortly, I just ran ahead because I was worried something was wrong. Like maybe you aren't our Twilight, but the other Twilight for that other world! Or you're actually a clone created by the mirror pool only a lot more smarted, and you managed to trap the real Twilight somewhere!" Pinkie kept going with theory after theory.

"Pinkie, please none of those would happen. Let's use the first two that you said as examples, I can't be the Twilight from the other world because the other Twilight didn't even go to the same school, and I don't even know if she lives in the same city as where the portal is. As for me being a clone of the mirror pool, we sealed it off and even if I did unseal it clones from there are a bit different than the real pony. It takes a strong desire from the original pony and implants just that desire into the clones." She explained. "Though why we didn't realize it the day when an army of you came to town I have no idea."

"Alrighty then, so what's bothering you huh?" Pinkie asked getting close, making her get nervous and look anywhere but Pinkie. "And why are you so nervous looking right now hmm?"

"N-no reason, just you're getting kind of close there." She replied.

"Ops, my bad I forgot, personal space and all that jazz." Pinkie said as she backed off.

"Oh, there you are Pinkie. I knew you ran ahead, but I wasn't to sure." Fluttershy said coming into the room, giving her friends a sweet little shy smile.

"Sorry Flutters, I just wanted to make sure Twilight wasn't going insane again!" Pinkie said.

"H-hey Fluttershy, how are you doing?" She asked, feeling even more uneasy now.

"Fine, but how are you doing? Spike told me you were dealing with something emotional when I ran into him earlier, and he told me to get Pinkie and come over for moral support." Fluttershy said.

"Wait, what? You ran into Spike earlier and he told you to come?" She asked a little shocked.

"Um, well I think that's what I just said, did I say something wrong?" Fluttershy asked.

"No, no of course you didn't! It's just Spike has a lot on his plate right now, so he's not exactly thinking clearly." She said in a hurry.

"Oh, yeah..." Pinkie said, and the other two mares turned to see their usually bubbly friend was now slightly deflated.

"Pinkie, I'm sorry to bring that up. I know you and Spike haven't made up yet, but he does forgive you, in fact he wasn't even mad at you for making jokes. He's just been hiding things, even from me that shouldn't have been hid." She said, gently wrapping a hoof around the pink mare who seemed to gain some of her bubblieness back at her touch.

"Yeah, don't worry Pinkie I'm sure he's not mad." Fluttershy said. "Well, if you're fine Twilight then I think I'm going to go back to my cottage."

"Fluttershy wait, please stay here for a little bit longer." Pinkie said, but before Fluttershy could answer the door came open and in came Rarity who looked like a train wreck as her make-up was smeared down her face like she had been crying.

"Oh dear, I-I'm sorry to i-inturrupt, I-I'll leave now," Rarity said turning.

"Hold on Rarity, why does it look like you've been crying?" Twilight asked before the disheveled mare could walk away, letting go of the pink mare who deflated a little more than she had before.

"I-it's nothing, please let me leave cause it's unladylike to interrupt a private moment between two or more ponies." Rarity said, looking between her and Pinkie, then at Fluttershy.

"Does it have to do with Spike? What did he say?" She asked, feeling absolutely sorry for her friend.

"Nothing I don't think that wasn't true," Rarity replied avoiding eye contact.

"He told you how he felt like how you've been treating him didn't he? But I need to know what he said, otherwise none of us will be able to help him get past it." She told Rarity, forcing the white mare to look her in the eyes. "So please, tell us what he said."

As Rarity looked between the three concerned friends, even if one of them seemed depressed themselves, she couldn't help the tears that came up again. So, Twilight took her over to the couch where they all sat down together. Twilight sat next to Pinkie, where she made sure her friend was alright with a gentle squeeze of a hoof, while Fluttershy and Rarity sat next to each other. Fluttershy helping Rarity remove the ruined make up, and gave a slight nuzzle when she thought no pony was paying attention, and reassured her close friend with a smile.

Author's Notes:

Well, it's been a bit huh? Hopefully I'll be getting back into the swing of things soon, and hope you enjoyed and remember to smile, smile, smile!

A Chase

He couldn't get what Opalescence said out of his mind, and he couldn't actually believe it either. But then why did he say those things if he didn't believe the cat? It felt like what he said came from his heart, and not just the heat of the moment. Though, as horrible as he felt he knew it had to be said.

Finally coming to a stop he looked around to find that he was in a familiar looking area, but he couldn't exactly place where he was at in town. That was until he finally got a whiff of the hundreds of apple trees that made up the Apple Family farm. He took in a deep breath, and walked towards the pond.

For whatever reason, he felt so relaxed and comfortable here, though he just put that off as when Winonna took him here and made him actually have fun. Taking a drink from the pond he laid down and looked at his reflection, going into deep thought. After all, if he needed to think things over this seemed like the best place.

"Why am I saying all of these things? I never actually thought of them until recently, and what is up with me and Winonna?" He asked out loud after a few seconds went by.

<To be honest, it's probably honestly how you really feel. I mean, didn't you and Ms. Twilight already talk about this?> He looked up to see Owlowiscious in a nearby tree.

"We did talk about it, and that's why I wanted to think about it before I told everypony else how I feel. You know, to make sure it really is how I feel and it's not just my sudden appearance." He admitted.

<Hmm, well honestly I do think it's how you really feel. Because I get the feeling like the reason why you regret what you said is because it was from the heart, and it's usually things said from the heart that can hurt others and yourself the most.> Owlowiscious said.

"Hmmph, if you're so wise then what should I do?" He asked.

<Go back, say what you have to say and also make sure they know you do care about them. If they care about you then they'll understand completely, and also say sorry. Of course if they feel the guilt, then they'll most likely tell you that you have nothing to be sorry for and will be the ones to apologize.> Owlowiscious replied.

"I just don't see the point in hurting others just to get a point across." He mumbled.

<I'm afraid that's how life is sometimes, even in a peaceful place like Ponyville. If you can call it peaceful after the year this town has had,> Owlowiscious said.

"You might be right, but why does it have to hurt so much to just say this stuff?" He asked.

<Otherwise it might not get the point through, because of the raw emotion.> Owlowiscious answered. <Anyways, when you're ready head back to the library. Also, Winona says she wants to talk about what happened, whatever happened.>

As the owl flew away, he couldn't help but shake his head and feeling a little guilt about how he just up and left Winona. But that could wait until later, because he still needed some time to calm down. Though he did wonder what Twilight was going to say when he tells her what happened with him and Rarity, even though that is technically what she wanted to happen.

After taking a moment, he realized how late it was and also how exhausted he actually was. Looking up at the clear sky, he honestly couldn't help but remember what he thought when he looked at Winona that night. Though he still didn't know why he still thinks that, or why it felt right when she kissed him, even if she didn't know that's how he kissed others.

Managing to convince himself that it was actually nothing, he started to walk back towards town. Though it wasn't long before he realized that he was lost, and he only came here on instinct as the pond was a place he realized he kept thinking about while running. But luckily he ran into a friendly Beaver that gave him directions.

He managed to finally make his way out of the orchard using the directions, which was actually pretty accurate. Though he wished he could come out closer to a road, and not close to the Everfree Forest. Just looking at the thick woods made him shutter a little at the cold feeling, which mixed with the feeling of being watched.

But he at least knew where he was and could easily find his way towards the road, and then make his way home. As soon as he got away from the Everfree the better, and get rid of these feelings. Though as he started to walk away, he jumped at what sounded like a twig breaking.

"I'm hoping that was either nothing, or another friendly Beaver." He said, and that remind him of what the other Beaver said before he left, to make sure he avoids one who calls himself Justin.

He didn't know why, but just a thought of a Beaver named Justin just made him laugh at little. But he quickly got back to making his way to the road, though he once again froze when he smelt something in the air. The smell was still a little distant, but he recognized it immediately.

"Oh no, oh no, oh no!" He said as he began to once again run, though this time out of panic and fear at what might be following him.

Though his fear was only confirmed when he heard the snarling and growling behind him and that only made him run faster. He felt the land beneath his feet change, and instantly he changed directions. Looking behind him, he saw the Timberwolves having trouble with the sudden switch.

"Please, help!" He called out seeing the edge of the town come closer. "Ahh!"

Suddenly he felt something rake against his back left leg, flinging him to the side a good distance's. After landing, he could feel the air leave his lungs and his vision getting blurry, he also started to feel something warm and wet go down his leg. It wasn't too long before he was surrounded by five Timberwolves.

"P-please... h-help...." he whimpered.

Author's Notes:

Alright, I really want to know, who might be going to Midwest Bronyfest up in Kansas City? Also, remember to smile, smile, smile! Even with the end of this chapter.

Giving Hope

"P-please... h-help..." he moaned out.

<Ah, what's the matter little pup? Did you have a little fall?> One of the Timberwolves said.

<That wasn't funny, we should treat our prey with a little more respect. Especially after a good chase like we had, and especially prey that took out one of our packs with a pebble.> One said with a snarl.

<Wait, I thought that was a baby dragon?> One asked.

<Well, it's the same scent and a little bit of magic. So I think a pony turned him into a mutt, though a small one at that. Afraid there won't be enough for all of us.> The first Timberwolf said.

<We can decide who gets seconds, but I think Maple should get first dibs since she managed to catch up to him.> This one had a tone of leadership.

<Wait, that's not...> A growl cut the one talking off.

<It's completely fair, and how we've always done it. If you would like to change that, then challenge me to be Alpha.> He managed to open his eyes to see one Timberwolf holding another down by it's neck. <But you know exactly what would happen don't you?>

While they were distracted he managed to get up, though he bit his tongue as a bolt of pain came from his hind left leg. He managed to get five feet before the pain made him fall over again, and the sound of him falling caught the attention of the timberwolves. They quickly surrounded him, even though he couldn't even go one more step without everything getting black spots.

<So, can I go ahead and take the first bite? I mean I honestly don't like seeing other creatures suffer like this, even if we are the ones who put them like that.> A more female voice said, the voice actually having genuine sympathy for him as he gave a little whimper.

<Then go ahead, and you all best back off. We should always put our prey out of misery before they suffer too much. For we are not monsters, we are hunters.> The one he assumed was the alpha said, with a snarl, though his attention was shifted to one who started to take steps toward him, and as she got close she whispered in his ear.

<I'm sorry little pup, but we need to eat just like everything else.> He gave another whimper, and closed his eyes as he could feel the female timberwolf open her jaw and start to close in.

But then the feeling of the female timberwolf hovering over him just disappeared as he started to hear the other timberwolves fighting. Though that went to the back of his mind as he waited to feel the wooden teeth to sink into him, but that never happened. He managed to open his eyes to see what was happening, and to his surprise the same timberwolf that was about to eat him fighting the other timberwolves.

He honestly couldn't believe his eyes, after all why would they be fighting each other? Last he knew they were all silent, and the only sound he heard was the breathing of the female timberwolf. Once again his attention was drawn back to that very same timberwold who was now very injured.

<I'm very sorry for that scare little pup, but I had to catch them off guard> She said looking at his hind leg with guilt. <And I'm sorry about actually catching you, but if you're wondering why I saved you it's because I don't believe in killing pups, or any form of child.>

"B-but I thought y-you needed to eat..." he said flinching out of pain.

<We do need to eat, but killing a pup is not right. As my former alpha said, we are hunters not monsters.> She said.

"W-what do you mean by f-former?" He couldn't help but ask.

<Well little pup, because of what I did to save you I can no longer go back to the forest or eles I will be killed. At the same time, I can't stay out of the forest or the ponies will think I'm attacking them. So, I'm at a crossroad, run the risk of certain death or run the risk of being killed or captured.> The female timberwolf said.

"L-listen, I need help but I can't walk. I-if you help me get help, I know somepony that will help you. Even if she doesn't, I'm friends with a Princess so if I talk to her she can guaranteed you won't be chased by ponies." He said.

<I wish I could believe that little pup, but ponies are too scared of my kind.> She said.

"Listen, you may not believe this but I was a baby dragon, and I got transformed by a portal. But what I'm trying to say is that ponies are scared of dragons as well, and they still trusted me. I-it'll take time, but you can earn that same trust as well, j-just please I-I just wanna go home before I bleed to death." He said wincing, this made her give a sigh.

<I'm only doing this because I still owe you for what I did, but if you keep your word then maybe I can live my life among the ponies. I think I would like that.> She said, managing to pick him up and put him on her back, though he did yelp in pain quite a bit.

After he managed to get comfortable enough where she could start to walk, they slowly made their way through town. Only a few ponies were out and about, and every one of them avoid the timberwolf though none of them called out for help. This surprised the female wolf, but she put it off as her carrying the little purple and green pup on her back. But that didn't stop her confidence from boosting, giving her hope that she could live among these ponies.

Author's Notes:

So, here's a question for y'all. Should Maple be called something else by ponies, or should she keep on being Maple?

An Awkward Meeting

As Maple saw the library come into view, she couldn't help but finally notice that the little pup on her back had passed out. Though she could still feel him breathing, which made her give a breath of relief since they were so close. But at the same time she could feel tension raising in her branches, wondering if these ponies won't hesitate in assuming the worst and destroying her.

"....at's taking him so long?" Maple could barely hear through the door as she drew closer.

"I'm sure he's fine, he just has a lot on his mind darling." Maple stopped for a second to listen.

"Yeah, I know but I'm still worried about him. It's just not like him to stay out this long without some kind of message to me. I mean, what if he's hurt and alone and nopony can hear him?" One of the ponies started, panic and worry had already claimed her.

"Please don't panic Twi, I'm sure we'll be getting a knock at the door any second now" Another pony said as if she knew Maple was just outside, but she did not waste any more time and tapped on the door.

"Spike!?" The door swung open to reveal a purple mare with a messy mane standing there looking at the Timberwolf in complete shock.

"Is it Spike?" A white mare joined, instantly fear spread across this mares face. "TIMBERWOLF!"

"What?!" The remaining mares said in unison, and before any of them could act a weak voice spoke.

"P-please don't... hurt her... s-she's a friend." The purple mare looked on the wolf's back to see Spike, and his injury. "S-she carried m-me hear."

"Oh dear Celestia, what happened?" The purple mare suddenly, but gently lifted the pup off of Maples back and into the house now completely ignoring the timberwolf. "Fluttershy!!"

"Oh my, oh dear, this looks really bad." Maple could now see a yellow mare step forward, and she could see the mare turn a paler color as the mare looked more closely at the wound. "This is definitely a timberwolf scratch."

"How do ya know that sugar?" A orange mare said.

"Because there's still enchanted pine sap still in it, preventing the bleeding from slowing down." Maple just stood there, feeling the guilt run through her once again.

"YOU! You did this to him didn't you?!" Suddenly Maple was surrounded by five ponies, though she wasn't afraid of what they would do to her.

"S-stop, pl-please don't hurt her. She's t-the one that saved me." The pup said before the pain swallowed him once again.

"Spike!" The purple mare ran back inside and comforted the little pup.

"This is looking better now that I clean it, not as deep as I thought." The yellow mare said, throwing away some red soaked rags. "I'm going to have to go to my cottage in order to get the right supplies to stitch him up, but he'll be fine. If he wakes before I get back give him some water, and something sweet to eat. He'll be dehydrated from losing so much blood."

"So, you got the bleeding to stop then?" The purple mare said.

"Mostly, it'll still bleed but not as much. I'll be back long before he loses that much blood Twilight." The yellow mare said before dashing out of the oak tree and into town.

"Well, what do we do with her then?" The blue pegasus spoke up.

"Let her in, if she is the one who saved Spike and brought him back then she isn't dangerous." Twilight had said.

"But Twilight...." Twilight raised her hoof.

"She saved him, and chances are the Everfree isn't a safe place for her anymore." Twilight said.

"What do you mean by that?" The blue one said.

"Many ponies have actually studied Timberwolves behavior before, though not closely. Then when we met Zecora, and she gave me all of her knowledge she could of them. So if what all the research is correct, then this wolf would have had to betray her pack and thus became an outcast in order to save him." Twilight said.

"Huh, well I'll keep my eyes on you." The blue mare said, and the rest of the mares nodded before walking in and letting Maple in as well.

Getting Better

It's been a hectic week since Maple had brought him back, though things were awkward now. Not just because Maple was a Timberwolf, but because he had finally told everpony how they were making him feel both before and after him and Twilight went through the portal. The conversation could have gone better, especially given the fact that he almost had a short life. But it could have been worse, after all none of them could really blame him for how he felt and he could tell that they all felt guilty, some more than others.

"I know you already know this Spike, but you did the right thing in telling everypony. So stop moping about it!" Rainbow said.

"Rainbow!" Twilight yelled.

"What? I'm right, and don't use that 'He's moping because of what happened with the Timberwolves' excuse. He only get's this way when he's feeling sorry for himself about what he said." Rainbow said.

"I know, but pretty much yelling at him won't help. After all, anypony would feel terrible about having to say those things to his friends, even if his friends needed to hear them. I mean I know the circumstances were different, and she shouldn't have said what she said but ask Fluttershy how it felt when she told Rarity and Pinkie things she had in the recess of her mind." Twilight said, giving the mare a glare as she rolled her eyes.

"You got me there." Rainbow sighed in defeat.

"It's alright Rainbow, you're right that is what I'm moping about. Though I know it's not something I should mope about, but I hurt your all's feelings and for that I'm sorry." Spike said making Rainbow flinch.

"Hey, that's not what I meant. I'm mean yeah, it did hurt hearing about how we've been treating you but we should be the ones apologizing. So, I'm sorry for how I treated you." Rainbow hung her head in shame. "And hey, I get where you're coming from with feeling guilty about it, and sorry for going off on ya."

Though before he could reply Rainbow took off, which only made him feel worse about everything. He know's that they would always be his friends, and now that everything was out in the open he was hoping things would get better between them. But so far everypony seems to have drifted a little further away from him.

"Don't worry Spike, like they say sometimes things get worse before they get better." Twilight reassured him before a knock at the door. "Oh that must be Fluttershy with your medicine."

"You still haven't told her how you feel have you?" Spike asked.

"I'm still trying to figure things out Spike, and it's a bit different then your situation." Twilight answered.

"Yeah, but you should at least say something before you lose your opportunity." Spike said.

"Spike, ever since she told me how Pinkie felt about me I haven't been as confident in my feelings for her. So, I'm afraid that if I say something now I would feel like I'm leading her." Twilight said, and there was another knock at the door. "Though I'm sure Pinkie doesn't know that I know about her feelings."

"I don't know Twilight, Pinkie seems to know a lot more than she let's on." Spike said as Twilight went to answer the door.

"Hi...." Twilight said as she answered the door.

"Who is it?" Spike asked.

"It's nopony, just a gift addressed to me." Twilight said as she came back in holding said gift with her magic. "Though I can't tell who it's from. I mean there's no card, no signature, I can't tell by how well it's wrapped or by any smell."

"Really?" Spike asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Yeah, I mean if it smelled like pie or cake then I would know it was from Pinkie or Applejack, and they both know how to wrap pretty good. It doesn't smell like animals, or perfume, or even like clouds. So I have no idea who it's from." Twilight replied.

"Well, open it and maybe we'll be able to tell that way." Spike suggested.

"Maybe." Twilight said as she tore the wrapping, and as soon as she saw what it was she instantly started to jump with joy.

"What is it?" Spike asked.

"Oh my goodness, it's a ticket to the Anderieum cruise! Who ever got me this must have paid a ton!" Twilight said, again jumping with joy which cause a note of some kind to fly out and land next to her.

"Hey, is that a note?" Spike said.

"Huh, wonder if it'll tell me who gave me this so I can thank them." Twilight said, lifter the note and reading it.

"So what does it say?" Spike asked.

"It says that the one I'm looking for will be on the cruise as well." Twilight replied, but she had a frown now.

"What is it?" Spike asked.

"The ticket says it's been booked for later this week at Manehatten. But I can't leave you here all by yourself." Twilight answered.

"Well, why not just ask one of our friends to stop by and check on me. I mean I'm already better enough to at least be able to walk around the house without much problem." Spike said.

"Yeah, but I'm still worried about you Spike. I mean, you just don't seem like yourself." Twilight said, concern in her eyes.

"I know, but really I'll be fine by myself. You should have fun, and like I said maybe ask somepony to check up on me." Spike said.

"Spike, I think we need to talk about this some more. But for right now, let me worry about you okay?" Twilight said, and Spike could see a little bit of conflict going on in her head.

"Alright, if that's what'll make you feel better. But I think you should go and see who this admire is." Spike said.

"I'll think about it." Twilight said. "So what do you want for lunch? I was thinking about cooking."

Spike got a look of horror on his face as she said that and started to walk towards the kitchen. Though that's mostly because he didn't know what was worst, getting attacked by those Timberwolves or Twilight's cooking. He tried to hurry as fast as he could so that she didn't do anything outrageous and end up poisoning them both.

Author's Notes:

For those who are wondering, Maple will be in the next chapter.

A Taste Of Maple

His ears perked up as a knock came to the door and waking him up from another ice cream filled dream. Yet another knock came and he heard Twilight hoof steps as she called out that she was coming. He could here her answer the door, and though he couldn't here exactly what was being said he could still make out who was at the door.

"Sorry again, Celestia wanted me to work on a speech for the new Starswirl museum opening. That and I've been packing for a trip for a few days now, which is why I called you here." Twilight said as she walked into the room being followed by Fluttershy and Maple. "But first, how has it been since taking her in?"

"Oh, it's been absolutely wonderful! I already figured out that Timberwolf sap actually has many healing uses." Fluttershy replied.

"Huh, like what?" Twilight asked as she pulled out a note book and quill.

"Well, when you mix it with honey it'll actually stop bleeding. I'm not exactly sure how, but it's been working wonderful. Also when brewed with tea when sick, it seems to help you get better." Fluttershy said. "But so far that's about what I have, now what's this about you going on a trip?"

"Okay, got it and as for the trip somepony sent me a ticket for a cruise. Which brings me to why I called you." Twilight replied putting away the notebook ad quill.

"You don't have to ask me, I would be happy to watch Spike. Just like I'm sure Maple would be happy about it." Fluttershy said looking down at the wolf.

<It would be nice to spend a little time with the pup.> Maple said.

"That's good, because I'll be gone for about two weeks if that's fine with you." Twilight said.

"It's more than fine Twilight, but you said you've been packing for the past few days?" Fluttershy asked.

"Yeah, I'm having trouble deciding what to take." Twilight replied with a sigh.

"Would you like me to help you?" Fluttershy asked.

"Actually that would be great, thanks!" Twilight said as she hurried up the stairs dragging Fluttershy with her magic.

<How are you doing little pup?> Maple asked as the door slammed shut up stairs.

"Better, though it still stings a little bit. But how have you been?" Spike asked.

<it's been difficult, I mean it's different from the forest.> Maple replied. <But I have been getting along thank to Fluttershy. Thank you for asking.>

"Hey, we're friends now so it's no big deal." Spike said, wincing a little as he moved his leg.

<I am truly sorry for doing that to you little pup.> As Maple said that Spike could see the regret and guilt in her eyes.

"It's okay, Fluttershy said that all it'll do is leave a scar which will make me look cool." Spike said, getting a little chuckle.

<In the wild scars are a symbol of toughness, but from what I've found here is that it'll take more than a scar to make a little pup like you cool. At most it'll just get you pity.> Maple said.

"So does that mean I'll be cool to you?" Spike asked.

<You will always be cool to me little pup, whether you have scars or not.> Maple replied, though Spike could still see the sadness in hers eyes as she looked at his leg again. <But I will make sure you will never receive another scar like that again.>

"Woah, you do know that'll be kind of hard right? I mean thanks and all, but we don't even live close to each other and accidents happen." Spike said.

<I see, you haven't learned your new senses yet. For I come here at night and guard, if you had control or even awareness of your new found senses you would know that.> Maple said making him a bit confused.

"What are you talking about?" Spike asked, making Maple give a sigh.

<Maybe you don't have the senses that I'm talking about since you were changed magically. But what I'm talking about is wolf senses, and before you ask yes even dogs that ponies keep as pets have these senses. For it's these senses that help them determine threats, friends, and even help them hunt with their ponies.> Maple replied.

"Huh, I wish Winona had told me that." Spike said.

<And who is this Winona?> Maple asked.

"She's a dog, who has been a very good friend to me since I've been transformed. Shot, I think you would like, I mean she can be a bit annoying with how hyper she can be. But at the same time she has been there for me, she nice, really cares about her friends, and not afraid to tell you what's on her mind." Spike said giving a little sigh.

<Hmm, I guess I'm going to have to meet this Winona then.> Maple said, and Spike noticed the look she was giving him.

"Why are you looking at me like that? It kind of reminds me of Twilight's mom look that she gives Twilight." Spike mentioned.

<Oh it's nothing to worry about little pup, I just want to meet her in person is all.> Maple said, though Spike got a little bit of a mother trying to protect her foals from her tone.

"Well as long as you don't scare her away, because she honestly been a good friend to me." Spike said, just passing that feeling off as him being tired and her feeling bad.

<I would never scare away a friend of yours little pup, especially given what I heard about how some ponies treated you.> Maple said.

"...thanks for helping Fluttershy." Twilight said as they came down the stairs.

"No problem, and I'll be over tomorrow to pick up Spike, if that's alright with him?" Fluttershy asked looking at him.

<Oh yeah, that's fine by me.> Spike answered, making Fluttershy nod her head and Twilight look a little confused.

"Uh, what did you say Spike?" Twilight asked.

"I said that would be fine with me, but didn't you hear me just a second ago?" Spike asked.

"Uh, yeah guess I wasn't paying attention. Oh, would you some tea Fluttershy?" Twilight asked.

"That would be lovely, and if you don't mind could you put honey in it?" Fluttershy asked.

"Of course," Twilight said as she went to the kitchen.

<Sheesh, don't know what's going on but it's like she's going deaf. That the third time in the past couple of days that she didn't seem to hear me correctly.> Spike said.

"Spike, I think that's because you keep talking like a dog. You're slipping in and out of it." Fluttershy said. "But that doesn't surprise me since you can talk with animals now."

"Fluttershy quit joking around." Spike said.

<She's not joking young pup, Twilight probably didn't want to point it out to you because she fears that it would upset you.> Maple said, and Fluttershy nodded in agreement.

"Riiigghhtt, but anyways how are you Fluttershy?" Spike asked as both Fluttershy and Maple sat down, and Fluttershy started talking about her animals and all of them seemed to drop the previous conversation completely.

Moving Into A Den

They walked with Twilight to the train station to see her off, and after making sure she had everything on her checklist and doubled checked, she finally boarded the train. Though as the train started to take off, Twilight stuck her head out and started to yell out things for him to do once he started feeling better. After the train fully departed the three of them started their way to Fluttershy's cottage, though as they walked passerby's gave them a wide berth, obviously not to get close to Maple.

"Don't worry girl, they'll get used to you eventually." Fluttershy reassured the wolf.

<I hope so, but it might be a long while before then.> Maple said giving a little sigh as a mother and daughter walked by.

While they walked through town Fluttershy made a few stops picking up various ingredients and foods for her animals she's taking care of. After picking up some kind of meat for Harry and for Maple they picked up the pace, though he was on top of Maple, and hurried up. As they walked Fluttershy explained that if she wasn't on time then her animals would get cranky.

"Hey Fluttershy?" The pegasus turned her head toward them, but kept her pace. "Where will I sleep at your place?" He asked,

"Oh my goodness, I completely forgot to make a space for you!" Fluttershy said turning red. "I'm so very sorry, but when we get to my cottage I'll make room. At least I hope I can make the room."

As soon as they got there though, all three of them knew that there wouldn't be room for him inside. Though that was the last thing on their minds, Maple sat him down in the shade of the house as her and Fluttershy went to calm everything down. After feeding her animals and grooming some as well Fluttershy finally came to sit down next to him, as well as Maple.

"I'm so very sorry, I didn't expect this many woodland critters to come this way this time of year." Fluttershy said giving him an apologetic look, that almost made her look on the verge of crying.

<He could stay with me in my den, after all I made it much to big for myself. I will not take no for an answer either.> Maple said, her tone made it clear she meant it.

"Are you sure? I mean I know your den is clean enough, and big enough, but are you absolutely sure?" Fluttershy asked, making him give Maple a quizzical look.

<Of course I'm sure, I would love to host the little pup. If not for him I may not be here.> Maple replied. <Though I would like to hear from him, since he's been awfully quiet.>

<Oh, um, i-if Fluttershy says it's okay then I don't think I would mind. I mean I always wanted to see what a Timber Wolf den looks like.> He said, looking a Fluttershy.

"Then it's settled, it's fine by me and it's fine by the both of you. Though at least let me put a doggy bed in there for you." Fluttershy covered her mouth right after. "I'm so sorry, I-I didn't...."

"It's fine, and thanks I would like something soft to sleep on, if that's okay with Maple." He said, Maple giving him a weird sideways glance.

<if it makes you comfortable, also keep in mind that during the day just whistle if you need anything. I'll come right away, but other wise don't try to walk unless you think you can.> Maple said, Fluttershy nodding in agreement.

"All right, if that's settled then I'll be right back. Afterwards I'll need to do the rest of my chores, then I'll come check on you okay Spike?" He nodded in agreement.

After Fluttershy came out with the bed, which Maple took and ran off with, she went off to start her normal chores. A minute later Maple came back, getting him back on her back so she could once again carry him. On their way to her den they stopped a few times to help settle arguments between the critters. Who knew rats had such vocabulary?

<Alright little pup, here we are. Your new home for the next week or so.> Maple said as she entered a hole in the ground.

"Wow, you built this?" He asked as he looked around.

They walked out of a small tunnel into a little cave, the ceiling was at least ten feet about them and the nearest wall was at least fifteen feet away. He couldn't help but to give a whistle and be impressed at the size. The thought of doing all of this by himself made him shudder, though he knew he wouldn't let it intimate him since all the things he's done for his friends. Like counting grass blades, to stacking rocks, at least digging out something like this might be a little bit more fun.

<Thank you, and yes I did. Back in the forest I used to build dens for different packs, each ranging in different numbers. Sometimes I would have to build one for more than twenty. Compared to those ones, this one is tiny. But once you've lived as long as I have you learn a few things about building a nice den for yourself.> Maple said, only making his jaw drop and making her laugh.

"So this is a small one to you? I mean at very least this could be enough space for like two ponies, and then some. Also, if you don't mind me asking how old are you?" He asked.

<I do not mind little pup, I am two hundred and forty six years old in pony years.> Maple replied.

<H-how is that even possible? I mean no offense.> He said giving a little blush, and before answering she sat him down on the bed Fluttershy gave him.

<Ah, a Timber Wolf life force is tied to their tree. As long as their tree lives, so do they. Though if the tree is destroyed, it does not mean the wolf will die. No, there are ways to survive. A wolf always carries a seed from their tree, and if the tree is destroyed then they could plant the seed and the tree that grows from it will be the wolf's new tree that it binds to. Though like I said, just because the tree is gone it does not mean the end of the wolf. The wolf could not plant the seed, and instead live another hundred years and pass away naturally.> Maple explained.

"Wow, that's a lot of info you just gave me. So Timber Wolves only live a hundred years without a tree?" He asked, making her nod.

<Yes, and if you would like to know more don't be afraid to ask. But not right now, I have to go help above. Remember whistle if you need me.> With that, Maple was off.

Though one thing bothered him, how could he see anything if he was at least ten feet below the surface. As far as he could tell there weren't any gems giving off a gentle glow, or any lanterns of any sort. Maybe he would ask Maple when she had the time how she keeps it lit up.

Author's Notes:

finally, I know right?

Winona Visits

He kept himself entertained by chewing on a random stick, because as of late his gums felt sore and he found chewing on something relieved some of the pain. Though he knew that it was because he was turned into a puppy in the middle of teasing. His ears perked up as he heard somepony coming down, making him quickly drop his stick.

<Hey, I heard you were gonna be living down here!> Winona said as she burst through the entrance with enough energy to power the entire town. <How are ya? You okay? I heard about what happened through my pony.>

"I... I'm, uh, fine thanks for asking and yeah I'm alright. Still hurts, can't walk on that leg but still fine. Also, let me guess you want to see it right? Give this whole big lecture and all?" He asked, rolling his eyes.

<Actually, no to the lecture and yeah I would love to see it!> Winona said, and before he could say anything she was staring at his hind leg.

<Um, that's the wrong leg.> He said giving a little blush.

<Oh, sorry.> She said and went to the other side. <Woah, that's gonna leave a pretty awesome scar! I mean it's gonna make you look cool.> Winona said, making him give a nod of appreciation.

"Thanks, by the way how did you find this place?" He asked.

<I followed your scent, though this is a really cool den. Who built it?> Winona asked.

<I did, and you must be Winona.> Maple said suddenly standing at the entrance.

<Wow, you're actually a Timber Wolf, that's so cool! I mean I heard you moved into town, but I hadn't actually believed it. I mean it's cool that your letting Spike stay here with you while he recovers.> Winona said. <And yup, that's me and you are?>

<My name is Maple, and it's nice to meet such a good friend of Spike. He needs all the support he can get right now. Especially support from such a close friend such as you.> Though as she said that, Spike could see the wolf give a slight glare.

<Oh, um, I guess we're close.> Winona said, her ears folded a little back.

<I consider you a close friend.> He said, making her give a little blush it seemed.

<I see, so I assume you came to visit? Because I was hoping to meet you sometime.> Maple said, sitting down. <So, tell me a little about yourself and your, um, close friendship with Spike.>

That made him give a little groan, but he sat there listening to Winona tell her story, which he actually found interesting. It wasn't until mid-way through that he noticed Maple giving a few glances, which he didn't know why. He just ignored it and kept listening to Winona, who apparently was rescued from drowning when she was a pup by Applejack, and that's how she came to be apart of the Apple family.

<Wow, I had no idea that you were that cool.> He said as she wrapped up her story.

<Heh, there's a lot you don't know about me. But as far as my friendship goes with you....> Winona then started recounting the times before and after he was turned into a dog.

Though as she spoke, he noticed she left out a few details which he felt grateful for, considering he didn't know how he felt about some of the things. But he couldn't help but look at her with more admiration after hearing her actual story, in a way he could relate to her. After all, she had a tough life, probably even tougher than his and yet she was as happy as Pinkie at a birthday party.

<Hmm, I see so you were truthful to him. I appreciate that.> Maple said giving a nod of approval.

<So, what about you? You mind telling us a little bit about yourself?> Winona asked, making Maple give a little laugh.

<It is only fair I suppose, then maybe we can give Spike here a turn.> Maple said.

They talked for what only felt like a few minutes, until Fluttershy came down and listened for a moment before she told them what time it was. She told them that she already let Applejack know Winona was gonna stay the night before she went back up to get them some food and water. After coming back down, she sat there listening to Maple's story, then they all listened to Spike when it was his turn.

"Wow, I had no idea Shining was picked on when he was younger. I mean, he just seems so cool and nice today." Fluttershy said.

<Yeah, he turned out okay because of him being bullied I think. Helped him develop, though now everyone who bullied him is now working for him.> Spike said causing them all to laugh.

"Yes, well sometimes that's how it works. The so called week and nerdy grow up to be strong and a leader, like Shining I guess." Fluttershy said, giving a little sigh of sadness.

"Or, other times they end up helping others like you do with animals." Spike said, hoping that made her fell a little better. "Though sometimes Shining can still act like a complete nerd."

<I bet it gets really funny sometimes.> Winona said.

<Yes, it does sound like you had a fun time around him.> Maple added.

"At least someone treated better than we did." Fluttershy said, hanging her head.

<Hey, I already told you guys that it's fine and you've all been wonderful since.> Spike said.

"We should have treated you better from the beginning though!" Fluttershy said, before running out tears in her eyes.

<Really wish that would have gone better.> He said, lowering his head.

<Give it time little pup, eventually those wounds will heal.> Maple said giving a little nuzzle, which did kind of make him feel a little better.

<Yup, try not to worry about right now.> Winona said giving a yawn, making him yawn.

<You two should sleep, I'm just gonna make my rounds for tonight.> Maple said, getting up and walking out of the den.

"Yeah, I am feeling really tired." He said, laying his head down.

Suddenly he felt Winona cuddle up next to him, which he didn't mind and in fact he enjoyed the feeling of having someone sleep close to him. As his eyes started to grow heavy though, he couldn't help but wonder if Twilight had found the pony who sent her that ticket yet or was she relaxing by a pool. The thought made him smile, and before he knew it he scooted a little closer to Winona before falling asleep.

Author's Notes:

Howdy y'all.

A Restful Sleep

He felt somepony gently nudge him, though he didn't want to get up yet he just fallen asleep. Though as who ever kept nudging him, he realized he was actually feeling pretty good. After yawing and wiping the tiredness out of his eyes, he looked to see who woke him up.

<Oh hey Fluttershy, how's it going? What time is it?> He asked, though the look that she gave him made him a little worried. "Uh, do I have something on me or something?"

"No, no it's just when I came down I really didn't want to wake you two. I mean it was just so adorable with how you were snuggled up to Winona. As for the time, it's about eight in the morning and I've already finished my early mourning chores so I could keep an eye on you. How did you sleep anyways? You looked mighty comfy." Fluttershy said.

"Right, and I slept very good. I think this is what I needed, thanks for asking." He said, though he really didn't quite believe her, at least partially because it sounded like she was avoiding something about his question. <Anyways, what do you mean I was snuggled up to Winona?>

"Well, you were looking comfy next to her." There was that look, and then he remembered last night and he gave a slight blush.

<Um, uh, y-yeah I guess so because I actually had a good night sleep. Uh, where are Maple and Winona?> He asked, not meeting Fluttershy's eyes.

"They're both outside, if you want I can carry you if you don't feel like walking yet." Fluttershy said, giving him a gentle smile.

<I think I can walk now, I think getting a good night sleep helped out a lot.> He said, getting up on his three good legs, not putting any wait on his left hind leg.

He took a tentative step, and then another and found how easy it was to walk on three of his legs. Though that was before he made the mistake of putting his leg down making him yelp and collapse onto the floor. Barely hearing Fluttershy after catching his breath he turned to let her know he was okay.

<Little pup, are you okay?> Suddenly Maple was standing beside him looking at him with concern.

"I think he's okay, just be careful and don't put any weight on that leg until I say so okay?" Fluttershy said, after calming down.

<Y-yeah, got it, no using the bad leg for awhile.> He managed, and after waving Maple off he tried to walk on his three good legs again.

This time went very smoothly, Fluttershy kept watch from behind to make sure he didn't try putting any weight on his leg. Maple stood next to him to make sure he kept balanced, and soon they were out of the den. He was led to a shady part where he laid next to Maple who insisted on staying close by for now.

<Hey, are you alright? I heard you yelp, but Maple went down there even before I could blink. It was amazing how fast she moved! Almost like a mother protecting her pups.> Winona said, making him give a sigh.

<Yeah, I'm fine thanks for asking.A-and um, about last night...> Before he could say anything else Winona leaned down and gave him a lick on the cheek making him blush again.

<Best night sleep I've had in a long time. Anyways, I, uh, have to get home.> Before any of them said anything else Winona ran away in a hurry.

<Um, uh, w-what was that about?> He asked out loud, making Maple laugh.

<I believe she likes you little pup.> Maple replied, giving another laugh.

<Naaahh, that can't be I'm.... right, I'm a dog now not a dragon.> He said, lowering his head.

<So, what are you feeling right now little pup? How do you feel about Winona?> Maple asked, with a comforting tone.

<I-I don't know, I-I'm confused. I-I think I need time to myself.> He replied looking at the wolf, and she gave a nod of understanding.

<Just know, if she's been there for you this entire time don't let this chance slip by. She seems like a very loyal companion. Just remember I'll be around, if you need anything...> Maple started before he jumped in.

<Just whistle, thanks.> He said, and as the wolf started to walk away he called out. <Hey Maple, thanks for being here for me and everything I really appreciate it.>

<You and me both little pup, you and me both.> Before he could say anything Maple turned and nuzzled him. <I really do wish I had a pup like you.>

Though before he could say anything, she left but not before he noticed the sadness in her eyes. It did make him wonder why she had that much sadness in her, he knew she was still upset about not being welcomed back to the forest but this sadness seemed deeper. But that did raise a question in his mind, how were Timber Wolves born?

Questions

As the day went on, he got the hang of walking on three legs and walked around. Every now and again he spotted Maple talking to the animals, though it seemed she was handling arguments between them. He waved and she nodded back before going back to her duties, and as he walked he saw Fluttershy giving the animals their lunch and grooming some as they ate.

<Oh hello Mr. Spike, I see your leg isn't bothering you that much.> He looked to see Owlicious perched in a tree.

<Hey, and the legs fine. But what are you doing up at this time?> He asked.

<Yes, well I was getting ready to go back to sleep when I saw you and just wanted to say hi.> Owlicious answered.

<Okay, well hi and I'll let you get back to sleep then.> He said and moved on.

He decided to stop in a shady area were not a lot of animals so he could take a nap, giving a yawn he curled up. Almost instantly he fell asleep, which when he woke up later he wondered why since he had a good night sleep. Though as he woke up, he noticed Maple near by laying down, but not asleep.

<Hey Maple, you done?> He asked, kind of feeling nervous.

<Hmm, not really I was taking a break on Fluttershy orders. Why, did you need anything?> Maple asked moving a little closer.

<Well, no I was just wondering about a couple of things is all.> He replied.

<Okay, well ask away little pup. Right now I have some free time.> Maple said.

<Um, uh, okay.> He was hoping they could talk later now. <Um, first question. How is your den so well lit up? I mean there's no light source as far as I could tell.>

<Ah, that would be my breath.> He looked at her strangely, making her laugh. <It's part of the reason why we have bad breath, because it contains magic that'll light up our dens. But I believe part of the reason you can see so well down there is because you might have night vision now.>

<Huh, I guess I hadn't noticed that. But are you sure?> He asked.

<Yes little pup, I'm sure mostly because to Fluttershy it was lit dimly. My guess is she's used to low lit dens. Now, I feel you might be avoiding the main question on your mind. Is it about Winona?> Maple asked, giving a sly look.

<Um, uh, n-no it's something personal though. But it might be more personal to you.> He said, gulping.

<I see, well ask away. I'll answer it if I can little pup.> Maple said, sitting down.

<A-alright, uh, h-how are Timber Wolves born?> He asked, and at that Maple gave a gentle laugh.

<I see, our conversation got you thinking then. That's good, as for your question it's very simple compared to other animal mating.> Maple answered, making him blush.

<But then how are they, um, conceived?> He asked, though he felt uncomfortable asking that question.

<Well, do you remember that seed that I said Timber Wolves have?> He nodded. <That seed is your answer. For instead of having it grow to be a new tree for itself a wolf can chose to get blessings from another wolf to plant a whole new tree instead. Before you ask, all they have to do is breath on the seed to create a new tree and when that tree sprouts so does a Timber Wolf pup.> Maple said.

<So, doesn't that mean the Timber Wolf gives up their seed that could save them?> He asked.

<Not necessarily, for if the wolf's tree is still alive then they will be able to get another seed. If there tree is gone before they get another seed, then again with the blessing of another wolf they can have a seed from another tree to bind with.> Maple answered.

<Huh, that's pretty cool, but then why would a wolf chose to live out for another hundred years if that's all it took?> He asked.

<It's not that simple, for a tree in the Everfree only produces one see per hundred years. So getting a seed from another wolf is hard, mostly because it takes at least a year for the seed to take hold and grow.> Maple said, making him nod. <Now that wasn't so hard to ask was it?>

<No, guess not and thanks for being understanding.> He answered.

<No worries, if I was in your position I would have the same curiosity.> Maple said, looking past him and giving a sigh. <Guess my break is over.>

<Hey, before you go what's stopping the other Timber Wolves from cutting down your tree?> He asked.

<It is forbidden to do so without the elders approval, and for that I would have to be put up on trial. So as long as I stay here in exile, my tree will remain safe.> Maple said before leaving.

After she left, that gave him a lot to think about the Timber Wolf culture. Though he decided not to put much thought about it as he knew from dragons culture it could be confusing if your not used to it. So he decided to get up and stretch, and for a moment he felt bigger almost angry bigger, but he shook the feeling off and started to walk toward Fluttershy's house.

A Bonding

As he got closer to Fluttshy's house, he started to hear talking. One voice he knew was Fluttershy's, but the other voice sounded like an animal talking though he couldn't be sure who it was. Though as he started to get closer he could now hear the conversation clearly now.

"I wonder how they're doing on their trip." Fluttershy said.

<You know she has feelings for you right? So why give that up?> The other voice said.

"Oh I know Angel, but this is about making them happy. It's obvious ever since I told her about Pinkie her feelings have wavered. I think it was more of a crush, that's why I sent them both on that cruise." Fluttershy replied, and then he realized what exactly she was talking about.

<Fine, but you have to worry about your own happiness every now and again. But knowing them, they probably already found each other. After all that pink pony is hard to miss.> Angel said, and Spike made the mistake of bumping into a can on the ground. <Looks like we have a visitor, who's there?>

<It's just me, sorry I didn't mean to over hear.> He answered, his ears folded back.

"You mean you heard?! How much?" Fluttershy asked.

<Uh, um, that you sent Pinkie and Twilight on that cruise so they could hook up at the expense of your own feelings.> He replied, making Fluttershy even more panicky. <Fluttershy calm down, I'm not planning on telling anypony. I was coming up here for some food.>

"O-okay, if that's what you want." Fluttershy said.

<Fluttershy, really calm down. I really won't tell, I Pinkie promise.> He said, and after they meet eyes and an understanding passed between them.

<Oh come on, are you really gonna take his word for it?> Angel said.

"Yes, because I don't think Spike would lie. But what would you like to eat?" Fluttershy asked, though she still seemed a little nervous.

<Um, just whatever you decide.> He said, and Fluttershy nodded and went inside leaving him alone with Angel.

<I'm watching you, and I hope you know she gave up a lot to hook those two up.> Angel said before scurrying off.

Soon after Fluttershy came back out, though she seemed to be calm now as she sat a big tasty looking salad in front of him. After giving her his thanks, he started eating which he hadn't realized how hungry he was until then. As he ate Maple came by to see him woofing down the salad, which she told him to savor it instead of eating it as fast.

<Uh, hey Maple?> Maple looked at him expectantly. <Have I really been talking like a dog?> He asked.

<I'm afraid so, you've been doing it ever since we got here. Though do not concern as I'm sure you can still speak pony, you'll probably have to try though since your vocal chords have changed.> Maple said, though despite the comfort tone she gave it still made him lose his appetite.

"I guess that's okay, I mean it's not the worst thing." He managed to say, though his voice now sounded weird as he spoke pony. <Wonder why it took this long to kick in and why can I even speak pony.>

<It's probably due to the magic of the portal. Though like you said little pup, it's not the worst thing to happen. At least you still posses the ability to talk regular pony.> Maple said, giving him a little nuzzle.

<Hey Maple?> Maple stopped and looked at him.

<If I had a choice, I wish you would have been my mother.> He said, though instantly he put his paw over his mouth, though Maple gave a loud laughter.

<Why cover your mouth now? That was the sweetest thing a little pup like you has said to me in awhile. Though I must ask, did this come from the comment I made about wishing I had a pup like you?> Maple asked, and he only nodded.

<I mean, Twilight makes a good big sister but that's just how I saw her. As for her mother, while she was great and treated me like one of her own it just didn't feel the same. And after thinking about it, I realized how much I see you as a stand in mother. Or at least how I always imagined my mother would be.> He said, lowering his head.

<That's right, Twilight hatched you from your egg. So you never got to meet your real parents, I'm so very sorry little pup. Though if it makes you feel better, I really would like to try being more of a mother figure for you.> Maple said, her eyes pleading and it made him really think about it before he nodded.

<Thank you.> He said, leaning into her, which surprised her at first but then she put her paw around him.

<No, thank you little pup for giving me this chance.> Maple said, and before he knew it he could feel her tears on his back though he didn't mind.

Author's Notes:

Well, ain't that special?

Defending Family

It had been a week since his and Maple's talk, and to him if felt like something had been lifted inside of him as he never felt happier. He could see the happiness in Maple's eyes as well, though every now and in again sadness crept into her eyes as she looked toward the forest. Though all he had to do was sit next to her and eventually that sadness was gone.

He still hadn't quite figured out his feelings for Winona, while he knew he liked her he just couldn't figure out how much he liked her. Though Maple did offer her advice when he asked, which did help as it was the most simplest advice. Even Fluttershy agreed it's what he should do, though he didn't mention to the mare who it was he now had a crush on.

His leg still hurt, but he was now able to put some weight on it and was at least able to limp on it, but he still mostly walked on three legs. Finally after some more thought, he decided to make the trip over to Sweet Apple Acres. Maple insisted on coming with though promised not to intervene.

"Oh hey Spike, how ya doing?" Applejack asked, though she did come to visit just the other day.

"Pretty good, still weird how my voice sounds now." He said.

Through out the past week when he wasn't trying to sort out his feelings, he was practicing to speak pony again. But no matter what his own voice still surprised him now since it now had a weird accent. Though at least ponies were able to understand him, which he was glad because that meant he didn't have to write of have Fluttershy there to explain what he said.

"So, what brings you two here?" Applejack asked.

"Um, uh, well I think we should talk." He said, feeling extremely nervous, though he felt Maples paw on him and that eased his nerves a bit.

"Ookay, well let me finish up this chore and we can head to the porch." Applejack said, obviously noticing how nervous he was though that made him wonder what she thought he wanted to talk about.

<It's going to be fine little pup, all you need to do is tell the truth. From what I've noticed this mare will appreciate the honesty.> Maple said in a comforting tone.

<I know, it's still gonna be weird though.> He said, but at least that gave him a little more confidence.

"Alright, all done. Now let's head to the house, and I'll go fetch us something to drink before we talk." Applejack said.

They didn't have to walk very far but Applejack went inside to get them something, leaving him and Maple alone on the porch. Though as they sat on the porch he couldn't help but to spot Winona out in the field, and he couldn't help but blush a little making Maple laugh. Soon though, Applejack came back with a glass and two bowls on her back.

"Here we go, some nice sweet tea freshly made by Granny." Applejack said. "So, what would you like to talk about?"

"Oh, um, uh, t-this i-is gonna be a l-little awkward." He stuttered, turning red and his eyes drifted toward Winona but he quickly looked away, but Applejack seemed to notice.

"I see, you know Fluttershy had her suspicion and after she explained, I couldn't help but agree. Though we both agreed not to bring it up until you were ready." Applejack said, a tone of understanding in her voice.

"I-I've come to terms with how I feel. B-but..." He managed, though getting that out was tough.

"You would like my permission?" Applejack asked, and he nodded. "I see, well this does put me in an awkward position. What about Rarity?"

"She's beautiful, but I think that crush has passed." He said, not meeting Applejacks eyes.

"Spike, I understand mostly because I know how difficult you had it. Especially over the past couple of weeks, but since I've known you before you were transformed this is a bit awkward." Applejack said, and he nodded in agreement his confidence wavering, though Maple gave him a little nuzzle.

"I know Applejack, that's why I'm still a little confused about it. But I think if we go out, it'll clear my head. Don't take that the wrong way, I really do like her a lot. She's great, she's pretty, she's loyal, honest, just... amazing." He said giving a sigh.

"Hmm, well if you ask me you already know how you feel whether you know it or not. And I do understand your situation, at least as much as I can and I'm happy that she has been a good friend to you. Cause I know ya really needed one, and as awkward as it is for me I want you to be happy. From what I've noticed, Winona knows your here and it seems that she definitely seemed to perk up. But just know, if ya break her heart..." Applejack said, making him gulp and Maple gave a slight chuckle.

"I-I understand, a-and thanks for being understanding." He said finally meeting her eyes.

"No problem, though like I said all I want from you and her is for you to be happy. I do consider you family, but remember she's more family to me. But don't let that intimidate you. It might be awkward at first if you two break up, but it'll pass. Now go get her." Applejack said, before walking away leaving him and Maple on the porch.

Author's Notes:

Happy Easter everypony!

Asking

<So, what are you going to do now?> Maple asked, her tone gentle and comforting.

<I-I think I'm gonna go talk to Winona.> He replied, looking at the wolf who gave him a little push her paw.

That got him started to walk toward Winona, who was bouncing around in some hay, and to him it made her look cute. Though once Winona noticed him approaching, she started to head his way with boundless energy it seemed. Taking a few more steps they meet up, and he gulped a little looking back at Maple who gave him a nod.

<Hey Spike, I see you're feeling better.> Winona said. <What brings ya here? I mean I saw ya talking to Applejack, what was that about?>

<I, um, I-I was talking to her about you.> He managed to say not meeting her eyes.

<Me? Why?> Though as she asked he could tell that she had become nervous by the tone in her voice.

<Well, um, do you remember when you licked me?> He asked, making her shift from paw to paw but she nodded. <I-it got me thinking.>

<Y-yeah? About what?> Winona asked, her tone full of nervousness but it also had an undertone of excitement.

<W-well, it got me to think about us. Our friendship, and where I want it to go.> He said, rubbing one leg on the other nervously.

<And where do you want us to go?> Winona asked, moving closer to him where she was almost muzzle to muzzle.

<How about I just show you...> He leaned forward and gave her a lick on the lips, making her squeak in surprise.

<Y-you just kissed me...> Winona said, still surprised.

<Yeah, b-because I like you Winona, l-like really like you.> He said, though before he could speak again he found himself on his back looking into Winonas eyes as she gave him a pony kiss.

<D-did I do that right?> Winona asked after breaking the kiss

<Y-yeah, t-that was right...> He said still laying on his back in surprise though before she could move back any further he gave her a kiss on the nose making her giggle.

<Sooo....> Winona said, helping him up.

<I know the answer, but would you like to go out with me?> He asked, all the nervous energy gone, instead replaced by glee.

<Of course, I wouldn't have it any other way.> Winona said, nuzzling him and he nuzzled back. <How about we meet in front of the Post Office tonight?>

<That sounds good, but I thought I would get to plan it.> He replied.

<Nope, not with me cause I've been planning a date with you for awhile now. But I have to get back to work, I'll see you later okay?> Winona said as she ran back to the fields.

<Well, that went well and it looked like you enjoyed yourself a bit little pup. Though kissing before the first date.> Maple said, suddenly standing beside him making him jump a little bit.

<How... where....> He started feeling like his heart might jump out of his chest.

<I'm a hunter remember? I know how to be quiet when I need to be. Though I am really glad to see such a goofy smile on you my little pup.> Maple said, making him blush a little. <Though I wish she had been a little more gentle, but it isn't anything Fluttershy can't patch up.>

He looked at his bad leg to see it bleeding a little bit, and now that he knew it was bleeding the pain hit him like a tone of bricks making him feel nauseous. Though Maple caught him before he fell, making him lay down and told him to take a deep breath. Which seemed to work as soon the nausea faded and the pain subsided.

"Here, come inside and let me patch that up for ya." Applejack said, walking from her house.

"How did you know..." Then it hit him, she had been watching them which would explain the smile and concern in her eyes.

"At, no you don't, the less you move the better until we get ya patched up." Applejack said, and before he could protest Maple put him on her back and the three of them headed toward the house. "We have a lot of medical supplies inside, mostly because Big Mac tends to get hurt a lot, just let me go get some and you just lay on the couch."

They went in and Maple gently put him on the couch, which he laid down immediately knowing that he had no choice in the matter. Soon though Applejack came back with a first aid kit, and started to patch him up. Which stung like the heat in Tarturus. But he bit back his yelps as she applied the cleaning alcohol.

"So, from the looks of it your talk with Winona went very well." Applejack said, getting the bandage ready.

<Y-yeah...> He cleared his throat. "Yeah, it went good. We have a date tonight, if that's okay with you."

"No ruff housing, Fluttershy would kill me if you fully reopened that wound. But I'm happy for ya Spike, and who knows you might be apart of my family before ya know it." Applejack gave him a wink, and applied the bandage. "There we go, you should be good to go. Like I said, no ruff housing."

"Is that a Timber Wolf?!" Applebloom suddenly appeared at the top of the stairs.

"Yup, this is Maple the one I told ya about AB." Applejack said, giving Maple an apologetic look.

"Wow, she's just so pretty! But why is she called Maple?" Applebloom asked, coming down the stairs.

<I was named Maple because that it the Timber Wolf way, because I was born from a Maple tree.> Maple replied, then looked to Spike to translate.

"She says it's a tradition for Timber Wolves to name their pups depending on what kind of tree they're made of." He said, and Maple gave a sigh and nodded.

"That's so cool! So if I were born from an Apple tree, does that mean my name would be Apple?" Applebloom asked.

<We have many names for different kind of trees, so it's difficult to tell.> Maple said.

"She says that they have many names for different trees, so she couldn't really tell you." He replied.

"Um, hey Spike I just noticed but you have a little bit of a weird ascent." Applebloom said, and Applejack instantly scolded her.

"Applebloom!" Applejack said.

"It's fine, I figured you would ask about it. It's become difficult for me to speak pony, as if it's now like a second language to me." He answered.

"So, does that mean if you don't concentrate you'll start barking instead of talking?" Applebloom asked, giving him a slightly confused look.

"Pretty much, say from the looks of it you're ready for another meeting with your friends." He said, making her gasp.

"I almost forgot! See ya later Spike and Maple! Love ya sis!" The filly said as she ran out of the house, making Applejack give a sigh.

"Thanks for answering those questions you two, ever since I told her about you Maple she's been bugging me to let her see ya." Applejack said.

"It's no problem." He said. "I think we better get back to Fluttershys so I can get cleaned up for tonight."

"Alright, see ya around lover boy." Applejack said going outside, and Maple put him on her back and they went off back to Fluttershy's.

Getting Ready

As Maple carried him on her back, he honestly couldn't help but feel excited, this would be his first official date. Thinking about how she kissed him before he really asked her out once again put a goofy smile on his face. For Maple's part she couldn't help but to laugh as they talked, mostly because it was all he could talk about.

<I really am happy for you my little pup, I can tell by the one hundred and sixty seven times you said it that you're excited.> Maple said, Fluttershys house now within sight.

<You've been keeping track?> He asked, feeling a little embarrassed though that quickly made Maple laugh.

<No little pup, I was only teasing. Though I will offer this as advice, try not to take things too far on your first date.> At that Maple laughed as he couldn't get any words out due to how embarrassed he was. <But in all reality, I know you'll be a complete gentle man. Just try to relax before hoof.>

<Uh, t-thanks Maple.> He mumbled.

<You are very welcome, now where would you like to be dropped off at?> Maple asked, and he told her under a tree where it was shady. <I will be back with Fluttershy so she can help you get ready, and don't worry I'll let you tell her the good news.>

Maple then quickly nuzzled him before she went to go get the yellow mare, leaving him alone for the moment. He sat there for a moment and couldn't help but think about how easier it was for him to ask Winona then it would have been for Rarity. Though as he thought about it, the more he realized the only reason why he liked Rarity at first was because of her beauty.

Granted he did eventually come to know her, but he knew that the only reason he continued to have his crush was because of her using said beauty to get what she wanted. Though he couldn't stay mad at the mare, but he couldn't believe how shallow he was when he first came to Ponyville. Which he couldn't believe all that had to happen for him to realize it was him turning into a dog.

"Spike?" He looked up to see Fluttersh staring at him with concern. "You okay?"

"Uh, yeah just thinking about a few things. Sorry, how long have you been there?" He asked, then remembered he didn't have to speak pony for Fluttershy.

"Not long, just a minuet. So what's this about you wanting to get cleaned up for tonight for a special occasion?" Fluttershy asked, as she examined his hind leg, taking off the bandage to get a good look and gave a little sigh. "She did a good job, the bleeding stopped."

<That's good to hear.> He said, feeling a little guilty. <But, uh, a-as for tonight I-I may have a-a date...>

"OH my goodness! That's great news Spike! We definitely need to get you ready then, but first with who?" Fluttershy asked, though her smile told him she already knew which didn't surprise him since Applejack told him the Pegasus already had subconscious.

<I-I'm going on a date with Winona.> He said, though his nerves seemed to kick in and made him sound small.

"That is wonderful news, I just know you two will be happy. But first we have to get you ready." Before he could say anything else, Fluttershy quickly grabbed him in her hooves and went straight to the bathroom.

Fluttershy really knew how to give a good bath, taking extra caution around his bad leg but still managing to clean it just as good. Soon she was blow drying him dry, which made him feel hot and made him pant a little bit. Then the mare started to brush him, which felt pretty good, but he didn't say that.

"Hmm, somethings missing..." Fluttershy said after finishing and putting the brush down, and then gasp. "I know, you need something nice to wear!"

Before he could say anything, the mare picked him up and put him on her back then quickly went out the front door. Maple took notice and started to follow and asked where they were going, Fluttershy said to Rarity's to get something for him to wear. Though that made him feel very nervous, though he made up with Rarity telling her that he had a date would feel a little awkward.

<It will be fine my little pup, I will be there when you tell her.> Maple whispered to him, making him feel a little better.

As they walked, Fluttershy stopped by a few places to pick up a few things for her house before continuing their walk. Soon Rarity's place came into view though after they talked for a little bit his nerves seemed to be under control now. But he still didn't feel comfortable with having to tell Rarity after crushing on her for as long as he did.

"Oh, hello you three!" Rarity said as they entered. "What brings you by?"

"How about I let Spike tell you." Fluttershy said.

<I-I...> He cleared his throat. "I need something to wear for a date tonight." He said quickly.

"A date!? That's great to hear Spike! So, who is the lucky lady?" Rarity asked gently lifting him with her magic and placing him down and started to take measurements, though her tone was cautious.

"It's um, well it's Winona." He answered, avoiding eye contact though Rarity put her hoof under his jaw and gently made him meet her eyes.

"I am so very happy for you Spike, even if I can't quite understand it. But if it makes you happy then I'm happy." Rarity said, giving him a warm smile that usually would make him have hearts in his eyes.

"T-thanks, that means a lot to me." Which it did, since he felt like she had completely forgave him for what he said to her.

<So, what is she planning to make?> Maple asked, making Rarity look at Fluttershy who asked the same question.

"For a special occasion such as a first date, and for Spike I have something very special in mind. It's something not too over the top and fancy, but I think it will look nice." Rarity said, quickly putting something together.

The Unicorn worked in complete concentration for a few moments, but she seemed to be working hard before saying 'A-Ha'. Before she showed them she hid the article of clothing behind her giving them a huge smile. Walking over to him, she had him close his eyes and slipped on his outfit.

"There we go, you look very dashing, wouldn't you say you two?" Rarity asked after moving out of the way, though she had him keep his eyes shut.

"Oh yes, very handsome." Fluttershy said.

<Yes, I would have to agree you do looking good.> Maple said nodding.

<Can I open my eyes now?> He asked, which Fluttershy asked.

"Why is he barking though?" Rarity asked.

"It may be because of his transformation, but he seems really excited to see what you made him." Fluttershy said, and Rarity seemed to get the hint.

"Oh yes, you can open your eyes now." Rarity said, and he opened his eyes to see that he was wearing a simple bow tie.

"Wow, this looks great." He said, seeing that it had little green stripes in it.

"I knew you would love it, now tell me about how you asked Winona out. Don't leave out any details, and I'll consider it a payment." Rarity said with a smile.

"I want to hear about too!" Fluttershy said, sitting next to Rarity.

He gave a sigh, his face was on fire though Maple gave him a little nuzzle and whispered that he could do it and not to worry. Taking a deep breath before starting with his and Mapes trip over to AJ's. Soon he was at the part where him and Winona had their moment of kissing, his cheeks burning bright as both the mares grew a huge grin on their faces.

Are You Sure

As he told his story the look on Rarity's face was one of concern and happiness, Flutterrshy seemed to be happy as she smiled at him. It didn't seem to bother him telling as much as he thought, in fact the more he told the better he felt. That was until he finished and Rarity started to speak.

"Spike, as happy as I am for you for being happy I do have a few concerns. My first concern is we don't even know this transformation is permeate. As far as we know, as soon as that portal opens again you'll be a dragon again. Then there's the fact you were in fact a dragon before hoof, and this seems a little strange that you seem just fine with your feelings, which if good and I really am happy, it's just strange to think about." Rarity said, making Fluttershy look away but nod.

"I really am sorry Spike, but actually hearing somepony say it, I have to agree. I mean we don't even know what kind of effects that you being a dragon before hoof will cause. For all we know, you'll grow the size of a carriage." Fluttershy said.

<But then why didn't anypony bring this up before hoof? I mean Fluttershy knew how I was feeling, Appljack figured it out, and I know you Maple knew to. So, what didn't anypony bring it up before I asked Winona out? B-before we had our moment?> He shouted, Rarity looking at him with concern, confusion, and fear.

<Little pup, we all probably thought you had thought about it. Not to mention you seem so happy around her, and after what you all recently been through it does not surprise me that they be hesitant to tell you how they feel.> Maple said, her tone firm yet had a softness to it.

"Maples right, even though we know it's wrong and it's not what you wanted it's the truth. We are still feeling raw from everything, but that does not change the fact we still want you to be happy. Even if you do turn back into a dragon and you still want to see Winona, we will still understand." Fluttershy said, he could tell in her eyes she was telling the truth but all he could feel is anger.

<This is exactly how you all treated me before! Like just because I'm younger, and a different species you treat me differently! For once I wish you all tell me something before I make a decision like this! I mean, right now I could care less if I was dragon if I could finally be happy.> He said, tears coming to his eyes before he started to turn and run.

"Spike, don't leave!" Rarity shouted as he ran through the door, though he could hear the hurt and fear in her voice.

"O-oh my, did you see that?" Fluttershy asked, looking between the white mare and the wolf.

<Yes, and I think we just found a side effect.> Maple said.

"I think we need to talk about this later, when everypony is calmed down." Rarity said, getting up and giving a sigh as she fought back a few tears.

"Rarity..." Fluttershy started.

"I'm fine, just worried Fluttershy. Now, don't you have some animals to take care of?" Rarity asked, and the yellow pegasus nodded getting the hint.

"You ready Maple?" Fluttershy asked, looking at where the wolf was realizing she had disappeared.

"Where did she go?" Rarity asked.

"She's probably hurt, I think she sees him as her pup." Fluttershy said.

"That makes sense I guess, but really Fluttershy I'm fine go and take care of all your critters." Rarity said, and soon Fluttershy was out the door.

"I really hope this works out, for everypony's sake." Fluttershy muttered, giving a sigh.

Author's Notes:

I know, a little short but this chapter is to mainly address some concerns that I know you all have. Hope I pulled it off well enough.

Reassurance

As he ran he could feel the tears stream down his cheeks, though before he knew it he was back at the library. Once inside and closed the door, he took a deep breath to calm himself down. He knew they were right, and knew that they only told him it because he asked them to be more honest with him.

That didn't make it hurt any less though, but he knew it would take longer for him to heal if they hadn't told him sooner. But now that he was alone with his thoughts he knew that he needed to actually think about it. After all, he didn't know if he would turn back into a dragon as soon as that portal opened, or even sooner.

But did it really matter to him? After all, if he could talk to Twilight maybe she could figure out the magic that kept him a dog, that way if he decided to turn back sooner he could. Though he couldn't help but wonder, did he really want to stay a dog for the rest of his life? He did seem to be happier since he been transformed.

<Spike?> Maple asked cautiously through the door.

<Come on in.> He replied, opening the door for the wolf though he avoided eye contact. <I'm sorry.>

<It's alright little pup, we understand you just want to be accepted. That's something everyone big and small strive for.> Maple said, her tone gentle and kind.

<Yeah, but I'm sorry if I freaked you all out. I know you three are right, but it doesn't change my feelings. I-I like being a dog, and if there's a way to keep being one I will find it.> He said, meeting Maples eyes with determination.

<Then I'm sure your friends will understand, just know that they do love you like family.> Maple said, gently nuzzling him. <It's the same for me.>

<Thanks, and I really do love you like family to.> He said, burring his face into the wolfs chest a few tears coming out.

<So, how is your leg feeling?> Maple asked, breaking the comfortable silence they had been in.

<I-I...> He looked down to see he was standing on it just fine, and as he looked closer all he could see was a scar. <H-How...?>

<I believe it may be some magic you now posses. Since your body cannot do dragon magic anymore, your magic may manifest it self in other ways. That means only one thing.> Maple said making him worried.

<What do you mean it means only one thing?> He asked gulping.

<I do not want to say, but do not worry little pup it's nothing bad. I just need to be sure of it.> Maple replied. <Now, let's go talk to your friends.>

They started to walk back together, though he did feel a little weird since Maple told him she had an idea of what was going on with him. The look in her eyes when she started seemed like concern, but as far as he knew Maple was the toughest wolf he ever met. So it did make him worried that he might end up losing her.

<It will take a lot more than what I'm thinking about to make me scared of you little pup.> Maple said as if reading his mind.

<If you tell me what you're thinking then I won't have to be worried about it.> He said, making Maple nod.

<Like I said, right now I want to be sure. Because it may only be your healing that is sped up when angered. Though the reason why I'm not telling you isn't because I'm scared for myself. It makes me scared for how the ponies will treat you if you are what I think you are.> Maple said.

<Oh, not like being a dragon before made ponies like me.> He muttered.

<True, but ponies have rarely had dealing with what I'm thinking of. For they are the guardians of the deepest and darkest part of the Everfree.> Maple said, making him gulp. <Do not worry, they are actually quite friendly unless you try to enter their territory, but once out they won't give chase. And no, I am not telling you what they are for like I said I need to make sure.>

<Alright, I got it. But Maple?> Maple turned to look at him, as he gave her a little lick. <Thanks for being here for me.>

Mind Made Up

As he and Maple slowly made their way back to Fluttershy's, he knew what he wanted to do. Even if the others didn't understand, which he knew they would, he had made up his mind. Now all he had to do was wait for Twilight to return. Though thinking about Twilight made him a little hesitant about his decision.

<You know little pup, I can tell you've made up your mind. But I must ask, did you really think about it?> Maple asked, and he nodded.

<I think I've actually been thinking about it since the very beginning, it was just at the back of my mind. I mean until I turned into a dog when I went through the portal to that other world it freaked me out, but after spending three days there I liked it. Though I was looking forward to becoming a Dragon again, I think since I came back as a dog I've been a lot happier.> He replied.

<Even after all the tears it has caused?> Maple asked, her voice soft.

<I-I may not be too happy about causing them, but I think it's what we all needed. It hurts to know that I caused a lot more trouble since I became a dog, then again I think it was inevitable for it to happen whether I'm a dog or a Dragon.> He said knowing he meant it.

<Inevitable maybe, but keep in mind that it might not have been. Though in the end with something like this with as close as you are with these ponies, it is a good thing you got all this out there.> Maple said with a little smile.

<Close huh? Doesn't feel like we're that close after everything that happened.> He said giving a sigh.

<If you weren't close to them, then they would not be as supportive, nor do I believe that they would still call you a friend if you were not close to them. That is why I think that in the end that's what helped you make your decision, because you know they will always be there. Though I'm sure you've heard all of this over and over again by now little pup.> Maple said.

<Yeah, still doesn't make anything easier.> He said giving a sigh. <But you are right, it is what helped me make this decision. But anyways are you going to tell me what you think I am?>

<A bit tired of that talk huh? Not that I can blame you little pup, but I still have yet to do any research on it yet remember?> Maple replied, making him give a shake of the head.

<All I want to know is what is the idea.> He grumbled.

<I know little pup, but bear with it for now. I promise whether my suspicions are true or not you will be the first to know.> Maple said. <But for now think on whether or not you would like to tell Fluttershy of your decision for we're almost back.>

<That reminds me, I never told you what I decided.> He said feeling embarrassed.

<It is your choice of who you tell first, or who you tell at all.> Maple replied, though he could see that she already knew what he had decided.

<H-how...>

<Because I know you little pup.> Maple said making him wonder if the others already knew as well.

<Thanks, and I think I know who to tell first.> He said, his excitement rising.

<Then I suppose we should talk to Fluttershy to help you get ready then.> Maple said, making him stop in his tracks.

<Will you stop reading my mind!> This made Maple give a little laugh.

<Little pup, I very well knew you would tell her first. I did not have to read your mind one bit.> Maple gave him a sly smile before she continued walking.

<Wait, can you really read minds?> He asked trying to catch up to her.

<Sorry little pup but that is one question I won't answer.> Maple answered giving a slight chuckle.

<You're just messing with me, right?> He couldn't help but ask.

<I don't know what you mean little pup, I simply won't answer your previous question.> Maple replied.

<I won't tell anypony I swear!> He said.

<Oh, you swear little pup?> Maple asked.

<Yeah, I just wanna know.> He replied.

<Then I swear I cannot read minds little pup.> Maple said, making him drop his ears a little.

<Oh, why didn't you just say that to begin with?> He asked.

<Because then I wouldn't of had the chance to mess with you as they say.> Maple answered giving a little chuckle. <If it makes you feel better I do have what ponies call a sixth sense of what others are thinking. As do all Timberwolves as it helps us hunt.>

<Huh, well that's actually pretty cool. But it's not like a hundred percent you know what they're thinking?> He asked.

<No, at best it works only thirty percent of the time. Though if we know the animal personally the more accurate we become in guessing what they are thinking. But enough of that little pup, it's time to get you ready for your date.> Maple said as they were now only a few feet from Fluttershy's door.

<I just hope she isn't to mad at me for earlier.> He said, walking up to the door and knocked.

Cleaned Up

As he knocked he heard Fluttershy's soft voice come through telling them to hang on just a minute. He knew she probably wouldn't be mad at him, but he was still nervous. After a few more seconds though the door opened and Fluttershy gave them a little smile.

"Feeling better?" Fluttershy asked looking at him.

<Uh...> He cleared his throat. "Yeah, thanks for asking. But you wouldn't mind helping me get ready for tonight?"

"You still want to go?" Fluttershy asked though he could hear her tone wasn't surprise but knowing.

"Um, uh, y-yeah... I mean I did promise and everything." He replied, and Fluttershy nodded.

"That's what I thought, and Rarity left you a gift for your date to!" Before he could respond Fluttershy pulled him into the house, Maple following a few steps behind.

<W-wait! What do mean? What gift? I was only gone for like an hour!> He said making the Pegasus stop for a second.

"Oh, well you know how fast Rarity can work. That and from the looks of it she had this ready for a minute." Fluttershy said, though he could barely understand what she said.

<It does not surprise me, Rarity does have a drive. Especially when it comes to her friends.> Maple said making Fluttershy nod, though he could tell that was more directed at him.

<Then I need to thank her then.> He muttered.

"Oh, you haven't even seen it yet Spike!" Fluttershy said, though he didn't realize that she had put him down.

<And yet she sounds like you'll love it little pup> Maple whispered in his ear.

<Yeah, which where is it?> He asked looking at the yellow mare.

"Well, I figured we can get you re-cleaned." Fluttershy said.

<O-okay....> Though before he could get anything else out Fluttershy grabbed him up and put him into the bath that was filled with water that was just the right temperature.

After spending some time in the tub, getting shampooed, dried, brushed, and a little animal friendly cologne he felt great. Though Fluttershy finally noticed his leg was healed and after some explaining that it was some sort of magic she nodded in understanding. Then she ushered him into her room to put on his present.

"Make sure you have your eyes closed okay? Rarity made me promise to keep it a surprise after all." He nodded in agreement and squeezed his eyes shut.

He felt the material pass over his head, and at first he was a little confused about it. Mostly because he just figured it would be another bow tie, but this was obviously some sort of suit. Then he heard Fluttershy give a little gasp, and heard Maple walk around him.

<Very stunning little pup, I think Winona will be very impressed. Even if I don't understand why ponies wear such thin material.> Maple said making him shift a little bit.

<Uh, c-can I open my eyes now?> He asked.

"Oh, hold on Spike. the light bulb just burnt out." Fluttershy answered and he could hear her walk away.

<Did the light really burn out?> He asked feeling a little uncomfortable, though not due to the outfit.

<Calm down little pup, try not to let your nerves get the best of you. As for your question, yes it did go out.> Maple replied, then suddenly he felt her paw on his head and it started to calm his nerves.

<Y-you know, Twilight used to rub my head like this when I was little and had nightmares.> He said making the wolf give a little chuckle.

<Yes, well I always pictured doing something like this with my own pups. That is why I'm very glad you seem to be enjoying it, and I can tell it's helping calm those butterflies.> Maple said, though he could hear a little sadness in her voice.

<Um, uh, i-if it's not too much trouble can I ask you a question?> He asked.

<Depends on the question little pup.> Maple replied, her tone suggesting she knew what he wanted to ask.

<I understand if you don't want to answer, but why don't you have your own pups?> He asked feeling the instant tension in the air.

<It is a long story little pup, one that still brings me sadness when I think about it. Though for you, I will tell you eventually I promise little pup.> Maple replied.

<I'm sorry for bringing it up.> He said the guilt in his voice evident.

<It is only natural to be curious. But thank you little pup for giving me this oppurtunity.> Maple said, and he felt her nuzzle him making the tension seep out of the room just as fast as it appeared.

"Alright Spike, lucky I had an extra bulb in the back closet. Though it looks like I'm going to get some more... oh, sorry I didn't mean to interrupt." Fluttershy said as she came into the room making Maple give a sigh.

<It is alright, I was giving the little pup some encouragement.> Maple said, giving him a pat on the head.

"Don't worry about it Maple, I understand. But lets change the light now so Spike can see what he looks like." Fluttershy said, and he could hear the mare fly up and soon she came back down. "Alright, are you ready Spike?"

<Um, y-yeah...> He then opened his eyes to reveal that he was wearing a nice simple shirt, with a new studded leash, and collar, to top it off he could see that it was studded with all of his favorite gems. <Wow, i-it must have taken her a long time to find all of these.>

"Well, it did take her awhile. But not as long as you might think, because she had a few stored back. Mostly the rarer ones she used are the ones she had." Fluttershy said, making him nod.

<Yes, you do look stunning though little pup. Tomorrow we can stop by Rarity's house to give her thanks. For right now, it's almost time for you to go.> Maple said, pushing him out the door and toward the front door.

<Uh, r-right but thanks Fluttershy for helping me get ready!> He yelled as he was pushed out the front door.

The Beginning Of The Date

As Maple shut the door she gave him some encouragement and made him start walking toward town. As he grew nearer he could see the sun setting, which made him gulp as he could feel his nerves act up. But he shook his head knowing that this is what he wanted.

He knew he was close to the post office and he couldn't stop thinking that it was stupid of him to dress up. After all, Winona is a wild spirit who likes to get dirty. But he once again shook his head and knew that's why Rarity made him a simple plain shirt. To top it off he knew the gems were magically glued onto the collar, so he knew that wouldn't be an issue.

<Hey Spike!> He was snapped back to reality as he heard Winona call him, and when he saw her he couldn't help but blush.

Though it wasn't really as to what she was wearing, he just couldn't believe she agreed to this date. But what she was wearing didn't hurt, in fact, he could tell it was a Rarity original dog dress. He knew because she had been wanting to do pet fashion for a minute, but the way he knew this one in particular was because of the well-aged fire ruby sewn into the front.

<You look very handsome Spike, I really like your collar.> Winona said making him blush.

<Y-you look nice too, especially with that fire ruby.> He replied making her blush in return.

<Y-yeah, I heard Rarity talking to my pony and said that you would know what kind of gem it is. Something about it having meaning to both you and her, but also wanted to show her support for you.> Winona spat off fast, and that made him know for sure how nervous she was.

<So, um, since we're here what's the plan?> He asked hoping it would cut the nervous energy.

<Oh, right, well come on and follow me!> Winona replied as she turned and started to walk making him follow. <These outfits will probably take a little beating tonight.>

<I'm sure Rarity thought of that, which can't you tell me anything about what we're doing?> He asked.

<Nope, oh, by the way, I see that your leg is healed. How did that happen?> Winona replied and asked making him want to paw palm.

<Don't know, some kind of magic. Maple said she has an idea of what happened.> He answered making Winona give a small nod.

<You know, I like Maple. She is very smart and nice, hard to believe she's a, or was I should say, a wild Timberwolf.> Winona said.

<Yeah, she definitely adjusted to life here.> He mentioned.

<Well, you know what I like about her the most?> Winona asked.

<What's that?> He replied with a tone of actual curiosity.

<How supportive she is to you, I think she really helped you more than anypony else could.> Winona answered stopping to look him in the eyes.

<Y-yeah, and that reminds me I have a little surprise for you as well.> He said making Winona tilt her head in curiosity.

<Let me guess, you aren't gonna tell now?> Winona asked.

<I-I could, but not right now. I want to see what you have planned first.> He replied.

<Well, now I'm really excited, but we have a long ways to go.> Winona said and started walking again.

While they walked they made some small talk, both were nervous and excited about the date. Though he couldn't help but think of how nice she looked in her outfit. For him it made it feel like a real date, not that it wouldn't have been but it did help him relax in a strange way.

<We're almost there, can't wait for it to begin! I mean what I had planned was going to be fun and all, but I can't help but to wonder what you want to say! I mean when do you want to say it? Beginning? End?> Winona asked practically jumping up and down in excitement.

<Um, uh, w-well I think I would like to say it when I think it's time, no offense.> He answered.

<None taken, I understand. I mean if it's important then you should say it when you say it, though keep in mind there is such a thing as waiting too long. Besides I think you'll like what I have set up, had to pull in a lot of favors for it!> Winona said before suddenly stopping mid-bounce.

<Why'd you stop?> He asked.

<We're here silly! But we are a little early so we'll have to wait a moment until the sun goes completely down and the moon rises, which you know it's supposed to be a full moon tonight?> Winona asked as he sat down next to her.

<Yeah, but can't you give me a little hint as to what we're supposed to be doing?> He replied.

<Well, we watch the sky and I'm sure you'll see it.> Winona answered making him shrug his shoulders.

<So, about what I want to tell you...> He started making Winona lock eyes with him.

<Y-yeah...> Winona said.

<I-I made my mind up about something, something that's very important.> He said, taking a deep breath though before he could say another word a bright streak came out of the trees and into the sky.

<It's starting! I'm sorry, but can it wait?> Winona asked, though he could tell he had caught her attention so he nodded in agreement.

The Date

As he turned his attention back up to the sky he couldn't help but keep catching glances at Winona. Yet another bright streak ran across the sky, though this one lasted longer. All of a sudden the streak started to turn this way and that way so fast that the head of the streak was already caught up with the tail.

<Wow... is that a Phoenix?> He asked in complete amazement of the acrobatics.

<Yup, but keep watching. It gets so much better!> Winona whispered.

The Phoenix did a few more tricks before another streak came up from the forest, this one a tiny bit smaller than the first. At first he was a little confused but after a moment he realized that the smaller one was probably a Phoenix chick. Soon the two came together and started to do a few more tricks.

<Here comes the best part!> Winona said, though he barely heard her since he was in complete awe.

That's when the bigger streak veered off and after a few seconds it stopped. Only when it stops it starts to glow brighter, then the light exploded into several different colors. At first he couldn't believe his eyes, he didn't even know that a Phoenix could do something like that.

Though he did manage to break his stare over the light show to see Winona wagging her tail happily watching the show. That's when he caught her looking at him out of the corner of her eyes, which she instantly avoided eye contact and he could see the slight blush in her fur. Yet another light show went off illuminating the two of them again in bright colors and he couldn't help but like how the colors reflected off her coat.

<W-why are you staring at me like that? It's making me feel nervous!> Winona said, which kind of made him chuckle a little.

<I'm sorry, I'm not laughing at you.> He said as she gave a little huff.

<But why are you staring?> Winona asked, making his cheeks start burning but luckily another light show went off to hide the blush a little.

<I-it's just that yo...> He grabbed his head and screamed.

<What's wrong?!> Winona asked jumping to his side.

<I'm fine, I just can't get these words out!> He replied, that's when he felt her paw on him.

<It's alright Spike...> Winona started but he quickly cut her off.

<You look beautiful with how the light reflects off of your fur!> He quickly said before covering his mouth. <I didn... I mean you look beautiful any...>

Once again he found himself laying on his back looking up at Winona, and as if someone had written it this way, the two streaks had made a perfect heart with Winona in the center. That's when Winona lowered her head and nuzzled him, before giving him a little lick on the cheek. He locked eyes with her and it felt like his heart was going a million miles an hour.

<I want to stay a dog...> He whispered making Winona tilt her head, and started to move off of him

<Wh-what did you just say?> Winona asked.

<I-I want to stay a dog! I don't want to be turned back into a dragon! I-I made so many new friends who helped me through my darkest moments these past few weeks! A-and some friends I-I l-like more than the others.> At this he could hear her give an eep.

<I-I wouldn't h-happen to be one who you like more?> He nodded his head, both their hearts beating fast.

<N-now I'm not saying I'm confessing my love for you!> He shouted, though he didn't really know why he had the impulse to say that. <N-not that i-it couldn't lead up to that... but I really do like you Winona! I want to stay a dog so I can be with you to see where this goes!>

<But what if you didn't have a choice? What if we broke up and you wanted to be a dragon again? Could you become a dragon again? I-I knew this was a bad idea...> Winona had started to back away from him, tears starting to form. <I-I'm sorry, I can't!>

That's when she took off, leaving him alone with the light of the two Phoenixes above who were still doing their tricks and stunts. His heart now hurting, tears were forming as he watched Winona disappear into the woods. He just sat there, even when the two fire birds were long gone.

Though he was hurting, he let his hurt solidify his decision to stay a dog so he could be with her. Even if she rejects him after he knew for sure that he could stay a dog, he wouldn't care. Being a dog has been the best thing that happened to him in years.

<No matter what anypony says, this is what I truly want for myself!> He yelled at the sky as the sun was rising, which made him realize that he had spent the whole night out here. So he started making his way back to town, though with a slightly broken heart, but also with a new found resolve.

Author's Notes:

Hey guys, hope you enjoyed the chapter! Maybe soon we'll find out how Twilight's and Pinkie's cruise went!

The Talk

He gave a big yawn as he got to the library, which he wanted to in part to check on it and because it was closer than Fluttershy's. As he retrieved the spare hidden key, and no he ain't gonna tell you all where it is, he opened the door. After a moment of taking things in he went to his bed.

Laying down he curled up and let out a sob, and yet again tears started to travel down his cheeks. Soon though he fell asleep into a dreamless sleep. That's when he heard something moving around, which made him jump up quickly, though he was still groggy he made his way slowly where the sound was.

As he moved as quietly as possibly throughout the living area of the library he looked at the time on a clock mounted in the hallway. He was surprised to see that it was actually four in the afternoon, which meant he had slept for at least nine hours. But he didn't have long before he heard someone walking up the stairs.

Thinking quickly he jumped into the conveniently opened broom closet, quickly and as quietly as he could, close the closet just enough where he could see through a crack. As the squeaky floor boards let him know how close the intruder was, he couldn't help but feel nervous. That's when the door swung wide open to reveal the somewhat surprised purple alicorn.

"Spike!" Twilight said releasing a sigh of relief. "You scared me, and you had us all worried sick about you!"

"W-wait, wait, wait I thought you were still on the cruise." He managed to get out in pony.

"Well I was, or we were, but one thing lead to another and ended up having to come back early. That's when Applejack found us at the train station and told us that you had been gone all night and a good part of the day. Luckily I knew you would probably be here." Twilight explained, with barely a pause.

<What...> He gave a slight cough to clear his throat. "Has anypony seen Winona?"

"Yeah, that's what got them looking in the first place. Winona realized what she did and felt horrible because of what happened last time..." Twilight's eyes shifted to his back leg and cocked her head in confusion.

"Don't know how it happened, just healed fast." He quickly said. "D-did Winona say why she left me out there?"

"To a degree, she wouldn't go into any details just that she panicked and left you by yourself in the woods. But from the sound of it there's more to the story." At that he lowered his eyes, only to then to raise them and meet Twilight's gaze with a look of determination.

"I think we need to talk. But first can we go downstairs? I don't like hiding or talking while I'm in the closet." Twilight couldn't help but give a slight giggle at the phrasing.

"Yeah, lets go downstairs so we can get you out of the closet." Twilight said with a slight smile.

"Ha ha, hope you're sense of humor doesn't go away Twi." He grumbled as he scooted by the mare and made his way to the living room.

"Sorry, just a little tired from the trip back." Twilight said as she followed.

As the two got to the living room, Twilight turned on the lights and then went to the kitchen to get both of them a drink. After returning and letting Spike gulp down his entire glass of water, she made herself comfortable on the couch opposite of Spike. A few seconds went by before he finally spoke.

"I-I don't know where to begin." He said letting out a sigh.

"Just start where you and Winona met up for your date." Twilight said giving him a encouraging smile.

"Yeah, we met up by the post office..." He continued telling her about the trek there. "After we got there we waited for a little bit until the show she had set up started."

"What kind of show?" Twilight asked.

"It was an awesome light show from two Phoenixes. Totally didn't know a Phoenix could cast so many light colors." He replied giving a sigh.

"I see, and I take it this next part is what made Winona leave?" He gave a nod in response.

"Yeah, I told her about the decision I made about being a dog." At this point he locked eyes with Twilight who shifted somewhat to be a little closer.

"Spike, we don't even know how the portals magic will effect you once it reopens. How can you say you've made a decision if you might not have a say in the matter?" Twilight asked.

"I would like you to try to learn the transformation magic that the portal has is why. Even if I don't get the choice from the portal." He quickly answered, making Twilight give a nod.

"I think I can do that, but it may take me awhile. I mean I already studied it a little, but then things happened that didn't let me finish or even barely start my research. But I don't think this is about the transforming magic in the mirror, at least it's not the main reason why we're having this talk is it?" Twilight asked, and he could tell she had already figured it out but was waiting for him to confirm it.

"I want to stay a dog." He said, never breaking eye contact and after a few more seconds Twilight gave a sigh.

"Spike, I already know your reasoning. I mean I know you were hurting before becoming a dog, and becoming a dog has let you start your healing, shot we all see the good this has done for you." Twilight said, a look of concern spread across her face.

<Y-you don't...> He shook his head trying not to let the growing knot in his chest break his concentration, and as he met Twilight's eyes again he couldn't bring himself to ask the question.

"Spike..." Twilight went to the couch he was sitting on and put her hoofs around him in a hug. "I'm not saying that your decision is the right or wrong one nor would it be impossible for me to keep you a dog. I know you've been a dog for a little while now and I know how happy it's made you, but you had been a dragon for even longer."

"W-what are you saying?" He managed, the knot in his chest that at first he thought was for Twilight not liking his decision, let him know that wasn't the case as it grew. Though now he could see it in her eyes what she wanted to say, and once again tears started to build up.

"You told us what we needed to hear, even if it was painful." Twilight said, putting a hoof on his chest after ending the hug so she could look him in the eyes. "But are you sure this is what your truly want? Or are you just afraid that by becoming a dragon again would make things like how they used to be?"

Author's Notes:

Alright guys, keep in mind this is before the whole Breezies episode. So Twilight does not know that spell yet. As for the one that created the frog orange, well I view that as more or less a basic transformation spell usually used to change items. Though has a side effect of turning animals and even ponies into objects if the magic hits a pony or animal.

His Resolve

He avoided her eyes as he tried to keep himself from completely break down. But as he looked away he took a breath, while yes that was a fear of his. Though that fear wasn't what made him make this decision and in fact that fear was put on his back burners for a while now.

"T-twilight, I honestly mean this. I want to stay a dog not because I'm afraid of things going back to how it was, but because for the first time in years I'm genuinely happy. Not that I wasn't happy before..." He started before he felt a hoof on his back.

"I know, but I'm just making sure Spike because like we already talked about it may be out of our hooves, or in your case paws," Twilight said. "But I do promise I'll do my best if you are a hundred percent certain."

"I am, and thanks," He said finally meeting her eyes again as he wrapped his paws around her in a little hug. "You are the best big sister I ever could ask for."

"Are you ready to see the others? They were all so worried about you," Twilight said after breaking the hug giving him a kind smile.

<Y-yea...> Once again he cleared his throat. "Yeah, I think I'm ready."

At that, he and Twilight started to make their way to Fluttershy's where everypony was waiting, including to his surprise Winona who avoided making eye contact with him. As they approached all their friends noticed them and of course Maple was the first was to go see them. When she approached he shrunk under her gaze.

<Are you okay little pup?> Maple asked but her tone certainly didn't match the look she was giving.

<I'm good...> He replied his gaze going over to Winona before he refocused himself.

"You had us all worried there for a little while Sugar cube," Applejack said coming over giving him a pat on his head.

<I tried to tell them not to worry,> Maple said which made him know she may have been watching his date, which made him wonder how much did the Timberwolf know?

"Spikey- Wikey, thank Celestia you're safe! Oh, and you slept in your shirt didn't you?" Rarity asked making him chuckle a bit. "It's no laughing matter Spike! I need to go iron it right away!"

He felt magic pull at his shirt and his collar before they came off and Rarity took off a bit hastily like she didn't want to stick around. It did sting just a bit since he had hoped that he could just explain to the whole group at once of his decision and his resolve to see it through. Turning his gaze back to Winona who was still hanging away from them he took a breath.

"I-if all of us could gather around, I wanted to tell you all about what choice I made," This made all of them look at him with curiosity except for Maple, Twilight, and Winona, though he really did wish Rarity had stuck around.

"I'll take care of it," Twilight said and he could feel a little bit of weight lift as he gave her an appreciative smile.

He took his time to explain his wanting to stay a dog and answered their concerns about it and the more he answered and showed that he meant what he said, Winona started coming closer. Twilight explained her role in the plan and even helped him with some of the more tough questions. But he was just glad that she was supporting him in any way she could at this point.

"Hmm, well you have been a lot happier..." Fluttershy said.

"Not to mention your confidence has improved," Rainbow said.

"Yeah, t-thanks for listening guys and supporting me," He managed as the group came around him giving him a group hug.

Not too long after that one by one, the group started to leave knowing he was safe and sound. He himself could feel the difference now between how he was and how he is since they came back. Though he was broken out of thought as he felt something nudge him.

<I-i'm really sorry for leaving you l-like that...> Winona said and as he looked he saw her guilt which she squeaked a little in surprise as he hugged her.

<No, I'm sorry for just spring that on you.> He told her breaking the hug.

<S-still, I-I shouldn't have panicked like that and left you out there alone,> Winona said. <I-it's just w-what you said a-about g-giving us the chance to see w-where things go...>

<S-so does this mean t-that y-you're still willing to g-go out with me?> He asked and blushed as she licked his nose.

<If you are sure about remaining a dog, I-I don't see why not?> This made the last of the weight on his shoulders lift as he wasn't sure about their relationship after last night. <I'll talk to you later okay? And maybe you plan the next date?>

Before he could respond Winona was gone heading back to the farm to finish up her chores he guessed. Soon the only ones left were Twilight, Fluttershy, Maple, and him. He told Twilight he would be home in a little while as he wanted to talk with Maple a little bit.

"Alright, just please don't stay out all night again okay? You know it'll just mess up your sleep schedule," Twilight said after giving him a nuzzle before leaving.

<So little pup, what did you want to talk about?> Maple asked sitting next to him.

<I just wanted an excuse to hang out for a little while longer,> He said as he curled up and snuggled close to her. <I-it's just been a long day...>

Author's Notes:

Hope you enjoyed, and tell me if I need to fix anything. But remember to smile, smile, smile!