Alternative dimension, everything's all whack, STORY GO! Spike finally finished a long trip to the "Cavern of Greed" and conquered his greedy demon. Now he returns home. What'll happen?
Art by ss2sonic. Check him out!
Before he left, Spike make a horrible mistake. He told all of his friends that he would leave Ponyville to cleanse the demon within him and to make amends for the suffering he brought. All of his friends didn't want him to leave, but he made up his mind. He said farewell to his saddened friends and painfully walked away from what he called "home". He told himself to venture of to the "Cavern of Greed". There, he can fight the demon from within...
5 years after the incident and all is peaceful in the town called Ponyville. Not a frown to be seen; not a cry to be heard. All was calm till a mysterious cloaked stranger came to the peaceful town. All the noise; all the chattering ceased. The stranger walked until he was in the middle of the town and simply said, "I'm home".
(Each chapter will be someone else's POV. The story progresses as the chapters go on. Also, come to this blog. I'd like to ask a question.)
Editor: LightningBass94. I can't thank enough without him(her) because my english is somewhat bad….
Ugh! I thought I'd die out there. Fighting your own species should've been easy, but NO~! They just had to have a group waiting for an ambush for poor travelers, and I just HAD to go get in the middle of it. Well, in my defense, the dude was carrying shipments to Ponyville… coincidentally, and I needed to get there… coincidentally. He was in trouble, and I was there… coincidenta- MY TAIL! Luna! You're watching me, aren't you! You really want me to come home that bad?! I know, I know. I've finished my training, I've conquered my greed, and I'm ready too finish my amends. But this is too coincidental! I'd like to finish my journey my way, thank you!
…Though, thanks for this help. I- I want to see them again. 5 years, and I've missed them since that first day. Hehe. I remember that one time… ok, one year that I had to cry myself to sleep. I was too young at that time. Fear, sadness, loneliness, and home-sickness mixed together. Was this what you felt, Luna, when you were on the moon. I guess I've only scratched that surface.
Come on! I need to cheer up! I'm going to see my friends again! Twilight, Fluttershy, Rainbowdash, Applejack, crazy Pinkie Pie, those Cutie Mark Crusaders, and… Rarity. Hmph. I feel tense just thinking about it. I… I guess I miss her the most. It's… wait… a sec… Did I- Come on backpack! Don't fail me now! I know I remembered that IT's in here! Come on! Book? No. Food? …Later. Sword? Move it. Come on! Where is it!? I know I- Yes! Here it is! Phew. Thought I might've lost it. You may be small, but you're the biggest worry I have on me. Wonder if we're there yet…
"Hey Shipper!" Spike called.
Shipper turned his head with a questioning look. "Yea?"
"How long till we're there?"
He looked back out to the road and replied, "Now, actually."
Luna… I hope you're not screwing with me… I really hope you're not screwing with me...
A shiver fell down upon Luna while she took a warm shower. "Sister," Luna called from the shower and through the dense steam, "I sense Spike hating me. Why is that?"
"I don't quite understand either, Luna" Celestia replied back.
"Alright, just don't mess with my telescope. I like the view of the moon exactly where I angled it." Luna called back.
"Oh don't worry, Luna," Celestia responded as she viewed through the telescope, watching Spike, "Don't worry at all, my pretty." --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spike jumped out of the wagon Shipper pulled.
"Man, oh man!" Spike yelled as he stretched, "Ponyville! I'm back!"
The chill, soft, morning wind tingled his scales as he stretched from head, down. He looked at his pack and grabbed his hooded cape, flung it over himself, tied it securely, and hooded himself to be all "mysterious like." He didn't want his friends to see him, but as him being taller then most ponies and hiding himself like a complete "stranger danger", he set himself up to make ponies think he's dangerous.
For the costume's finishing touch, he clicked on his sword in it's sheath. This one-handed, linen handled, dragon fire forged, single edged, orichalcum sword was his partner in fights for years. It never chipped, never rusted, and never wore out, the perfect sword to have as a companion. He unsheathed it to look at the sword he used to fight during his journey. The blade was purple like his scales, about as long as his arm, and had a greenish dragon design traveling throughout the blade. The color came from the magical flame he used to forge the blade.
Just getting the materials was agonizing enough, but to use almost all of your mana in one go to forge the sword was excruciating. Repeated multiple times, you have a dragon almost passing out just heating it. Then there's forging the blade half conscious. He was still amazed that it came out as he wanted. Not too dull, but not too sharp to kill. He even rewarded himself by making the design on the blade with the help of his fire and claw. Spike looked at it one last time before he sheathed it. The wind blew, making his cape fly with the wind, but it was bound by the knot he made earlier. He took one last look at Shipper and smiled.
"Hey," he called out to Shipper, "Thanks for the ride!"
Shipper tipped his straw hat.
"Anything for a pony, er, dragon who helped me out back there. I come to Ponyville sometimes. If ya ever see me, just holler and maybe we can drink a little," he said with a friendly smile.
Spike laughed, "I don't drink. Sorry."
"What? Under-aged?" Shipper asked jokingly.
He shook his head.
"No, I'm not. It's because I distance myself from evil temptations."
Shipper laughed at the remark. "Then I'll see to it that you get the 'Chocolate Milk Special' !"
"Hey!" Spike called out, "I drink the 'Strawberry Milk Deluxe', thank you very much!"
The two friends exchanged laughter before going on their separate ways.
He gave one last wave to Shipper before taking a step forward to his home; His long awaited home that he missed. He walked around Ponyville for a while, remembering all the fun he had 5 years ago. Ponies left and right whispered amongst themselves as Spike walked past them through the town, but he didn't care. He just looked around and fond memories came at him like a wave. Some laughs, some joy, some frightening, and some of Pinkie Pie's confusing moments.
He walked until he realized that he was in the center of town: Ponyville's fountain. He looked questioningly at the lavender fountain of a pony striking a pose. If anything, he always questioned about the pony to himself. Like who was this colt/mare, why was it there, what was it's purpose, and most importantly: If it's a fountain, why does it not shoot out water? Or maybe it was a pool? But regardless of it's oddity, it brought back memories. Sweet, blissful memories. A tear flowed down Spike's cheek as he lifted his head to look at the sky. All the murmuring ceased as they feared what the stranger might do. He looked and stared into the sky and all that was heard from him was: "I'm home."
Ok. One: Who's this guy? Just walks in here and stands there in front of that fountai- we have a fountain? And two: That guy looks so COOL! Cloak, sword, a traveller's backpack, and everything! Just who is that guy? Though, he does look familiar. Like, really familiar. I can't put my hoof on it. Gah! It's bothering me, and I don't know why! Maybe because I haven't eaten breakfast yet… Yea. That's it. I just need to- Whoa. Is that?... That's one HUGE sandwich he has there. It's, like, longer then Big Mac! How can you make, or even have, that long a sandwich! He's going to eat, sitting there? That sandwich though… does look yummy...*gurgle* Ok, tummy. I know you're hungry. I am too. I wonder if...
Rainbow Dash slowly floated down to the stranger, who was already a quarter done with his sandwich. She gulped. For every inch she moved toward the stranger, her mouth watered just from the smell. She landed in front of him, who finally noticed the pegasus. He looked around and every pony was going about their business. His attention was back at Rainbow Dash, who was a lot closer then he remembered. He just looked at her while she stared at the behemoth of a sandwich. After a long silence, the stranger laughed. Rainbow Dash came back from reality after dreaming of waffling down the sandwich. She looked at the stranger with a puzzling look.
"Is there something wrong, buddy?" She asked, while taking quick looks at his breakfast.
The stranger's enjoyed laugh slowly died down to a near chuckle. He wiped a tear from his eyes and looked at Rainbow Dash in the eyes. He noticed that she kept looking back and forth from him to his sandwich. He looked down at his meal, pretending to eat it, but was looking at the pegasus the whole time. Rainbow Dash gulped, trying to keep cool as she tried to have a conversation with him. The stranger stopped.
"You know," he said," I've traveled for a long time. It would be nice if a certain pegasus *cough, cough* would sit next to me so I could share my breakfast. An old friend of mine once said, 'Food is a fascinating thing, but eating it alone will not show you it's full potential.' So, miss. Would you like to have a meal next to this stranger?"
Wait… Is this guy for real!?
Rainbow Dash took no time settling herself down next to the stranger.
"Really?" she asked, "Cause I don't want to be a bother taking some of that awesome sandwich you got there."
"No, believe me," The stranger insisted, "I can hear your stomach begging for it."
Rainbow Dash quickly blushed and looked away shamefully. The stranger chuckled, and in addition, he patted her head.
"It's alright," he said, "Everyone has those moments."
He placed the half finished sandwich on the fountain stool between them. He stood, drew his sword, and all Rainbow Dash could do was stare in awe at the sword. The blade shined a metallic purple shine that grabbed all of her attention. In one motion, the stranger swung the blade and Rainbow Dash flinched, closing her eyes and shielding herself from the sudden action. She slowly opened them, easing up as she saw that he already sheathed the sword.
He smiled and said, "Well? Go on," gesturing to the sandwich, "Eat up."
She turned to see the sandwich split in half with a clean slice. She looked back and forth between him and the neatly split sandwiches. Without a moment's notice, she quickly took a sandwich and took a bite. In that one bite, her tastebuds exploded. Never before had she ever tasted a sandwich so marvelously delicious. Compared to Fluttershy's home-cooked meal, this sandwich alone set itself on a whole new level of awesomeness. Rainbow Dash took another bite of the glorious sandwich and was blown away. Every time she took a bite from the Celestia blessed food, it got better and better. The flavors of lettuce, carrot, sprinkled sugar, and this other taste she didn't seem to recognize. It was a weird greenish, orange-ish mush.
"It's a rare herb from the fields of Rengea." the stranger said, noticing her looking at the sandwich oddly, "It takes any vegetables it was ground and heightens it's nutrients, also bring out it's true flavor. It was ground with sun dried, left-over vegetables, then mixed with some water. Many chefs would pay top bits for just a small pouch of these herbs. Very hard to find, let me tell you that. "
Rainbow Dash swallowed the sandwich she was chewing and looked at him in disbelief.
So, I'm eating a top bit herb in a sandwich, and the herb is something even Fluttershy doesn't know about!? But she's, like, the herb nerd in this town!
"I see that you're done with your portion of the meal," He shook his head and laughed, "Mares these days, and I thought colts would eat more."
"Sh-shut up!" Rainbow Dash pouted, "It's not like I wanted to eat it all! It was just too… good…"
The stranger chuckled a little and looked into the sky. She didn't understand why, but the more she looked at the stranger, the more he seemed to be really familiar; like, her chest tightened whenever she looked at him.
"Hey," he asked, "I'd like to have a look around town, then visit a library here. I want to read a certain book and a friend of mine said that this library has the book I'm looking for. Mind showing me around?"
"Sure," she replied, "Hope you can catch up though. I'm the fastest flyer in all of Equestria!"
"And the biggest braggart," he said, "Glad to see you haven't changed after all these years."
"What do you mean 'all of these years'?" Rainbow Dash questioned, "Who are you anyway?"
The stranger merely looked at the sky and said, "In due time, my friend."
He stood up and took a deep breath. As he exhaled, bits of smoke and dragon fire came from his mouth.
"Welp. Off we go! Shall we? I'd like to do a little grocery shopping for lunch. You're welcome to join me, if you want."
With excitement, confusion, and eagerness all wrapped into one, Rainbow Dash showed the stranger the town of Ponyville. She realized she hasn't even introduce herself.
She turned in mid-air and said, "My name's Rainbow Dash, by the way. What's your's?"
"Uh," the stranger thought for a moment, " I'd prefer not to tell you now. I'd like my name to be hidden for a while. In the meantime, you can call me, uh, Scales."
"Ok?" she questioned, "I'll call you that, but you better keep your word."
Well, that was an interesting plot twist. Who knew that Daring-do was in love with Sugar-su? Well played, well played. I applaud to you. Wait…Oh no! It's 11:29! The library will be open in less then a minute! Got to hurry, got to hurry! There's the sign! Quick! Magic, turn the sign! an~d there we go. Made it before the clock. Now then-
The door opened behind Twilight. She could hear two voices, one being Rainbow Dash and the other soundded like a new pony in town. They seemed to have had a conversation before coming here. Not wanting to be rude, she turned to greet them, but then froze at the sight of the new… dragon.
Sp-spike!? No… It can't be… But… the new guy… he's a dragon. Just like Spike... I'm not sure yet. I'll wait 'til I know for sure he's the one… Just please, Celestia. Let him be the one...
"Um… Hello?" the stranger waved in front of Twilight. He seemed concerned.
"Oh, uh, yes. Sorry. It's just that you seem so familiar somehow." Twilight examined.
"Wait. So I'm not the only one who thought that?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"What do you mean, Rainbow Dash?" Twilight questioned.
"Well, when I first saw him, I thought to myself that he looked so familiar somehow. Like someone from a long time ago."
The stranger cleared his throat, gaining the attention of the two puzzled mares.
"If you don't mind, was it, Twilight?" the dragon asked, "I'd like to use your kitchen to make lunch. Would that be alright with you?" Twilight blinked a few times before replying, "Sure. Just don't burn anything. Last thing I need is all the books smelling like burnt carrot stew."
The dragon notched an eyebrow followed by a smirk. He turned to the kitchen and proceeded to make lunch for what was two, now three beings. Twilight just stood there with even more questions.
Now, who is this dragon? Why or how does he know where the kitchen is? And most importantly: How is it that he knows my name? As far as I know, I've never even introduced myself. What in Equestria is this dragon?
"Um, Rainbow Da-" Twilight asked before looking at Rainbow Dash to see her reading the newest Daring-do book: Daring-do and the Cavern of Lust. Twilight knew that once that pegasus started reading, there was no stopping her. Instead, she decided to go check up on her cooking guest.
She walked towards the kitchen and already she could see flashes of green light. Concerned, she dashed to the kitchen to find the dragon flipping steam-fried vegetables into the air, breathing fire at the food, letting them fall gracefully on the pan, and repeated the process. She only stared in amazement, as if she was watching a show of dancing acrobatics of food. The stranger quickly reached for something with his free claw and grabbed what seemed like a pinch of something. Twilight looked at where he reached and saw that there were multiple sets of small bowls, each containing a series of spices and herbs. He sprinkled the seasoning across the frying vegetables and what occurred at that moment made her jaw drop. The vegetables looked old and wrinkled before he spread the seasonings. Now, they were full of life, shining, and the smell made her stomach growl rather loudly. The stranger was humming… a… song…
No. That can't be right. That's the song I sung when I messed up our cutie marks before I became princess… And only Spike was with me at that time… How does he-
A sharp "ding" sound stopped Twilight's train of thought. She looked at where the source came from, and fortunately the stranger's tail led her attention to the oven. He wrapped the tip of his tail around the handle bar and drew down the oven door. A sudden wave of the fresh, familiar aroma of peach and apples filled the kitchen and wafted into the library. She simply stood there, letting in the memories of how Spike use to make his famous "Peach Cob-ple Pie".
"Man," Rainbow Dash came behind Twilight, giving her a small scare, "What smells go good?! I'm starving!"
The stranger turned to see the two mares and grinned. He turned back to his cooking and talked with his back toward them, "Grab some plates and silver ware, will ya? I'm almost done."
Rainbow Dash wasted no time getting the plates and wares. She set up the table, which… actually shocked Twilight. She just stood there watching Rainbow Dash act like a child, waiting for her food.
Now, who is this guy!? Am I missing something!? She's sitting and waiting for!… well, I would be to. It's just that I have some self-
Interrupted again, but with a thump from the back of her head, she quickly turned around to see… no one there.
"Over here, Twilight," The stranger called behind her.
She turned again and her portion of the food was already set along with Rainbow's and the dragon's. Rainbow Dash, wasting no time, chowed down on her food while the stranger was eating at a steady pace. She was somewhat reluctant, but hunger slowly drew her to her seat. She lifted up a fork with her magic and stabbed a small tomato. The tomato was fresh, plump, and shining with a whole new glimmer to it that made her cautious, but tempted. She took a small, little nibble, and, before she knew it, all of the food was gone. Her mouth was in ecstasy. She looked at the pie tin and saw three slices were missing. She looked at Rainbow Dash to see what she could make of this, but it seems like she was in a food… coma...
How is she-I can't even… what? Did I eat? I know I only took a small bite from the baby tomato, but this is outrageous! I've never eaten something I don't remember… well, last I checked at least-
The stranger stood up and collected the dishes, which surprised her and stopped her train of thought again.
"No, no," Twilight insisted, "Let me do them."
She placed her magic on the plates and wares and slowly lifted them up. Before she turned towards the sink, she heard a snap. Suddenly, she wasn't levitating plates and wares, but she was lifting something else. She quickly brought the item in front of her. It was a napkin.
"There's a spot on your cheek," he said as he walked past Twilight with the plates and wares, "Clean yourself up, why don't you? It's a pretty silly mess."
Twilight blushed and quickly wiped the mess.
Ok, now this is getting obscure. How is it that he is able to do that? I've never heard of this. Rainbow Dash in a coma (for whatever kind of reason), him being almost like Spike (if not, too similar), and swapping items in my magic. I need to talk with-
Suddenly, there was a loud bang followed by Rarity screamed, "Twilight!"
Can't there be a time when I'm not interrupted!?
The bang seemed to have woke Rainbow Dash from her coma.
"In here, Rarity," she called from the kitchen, while looking at Rainbow's confusion.
Trotting could be heard and soon Rarity ran into the kitchen, almost knocking down the stranger. Luckily he took a side-step, dodging her potential tackle. Still not noticing the stranger, she turned to Twilight, panting.
"Fluttershy *pant, pant, pant* trouble *pant, pant* Applejack *pant, pant, pant* Pinkie Pie *pant, pant*come help please!"
"What's going on?" Rainbow Dash asked, still half-asleep from her previous coma.
"I'm guessing that this 'Fluttershy' is in trouble, this 'Applejack' and 'Pinkie Pie' are trying to help her, but they can't do it alone, and you rushed here to get Twilight in hopes that she can do something." the stranger said as he puts up the cleaned dishes. Rarity only looked in his direction and nodded, not looking at the dragon himself. She turned back to Twilight and asked, "Can you help, please?"
"Twilight," he said as he shifted his sword on his back, "Stay here and clean up this library, will you? It's dusty out there and we wouldn't want the books to be in bad condition. I'll go, and you should get Rainbow Dash a blanket. She's out again. Madam," he gestured toward the door, "Lead the way."
So, I've seen Rainbow, I've seen Twilight, I've just met Rarity, and now everyone. Joy to Equestria! Sooner then expected, sure. I'm ok with that, but the fact that I have to fight to meet everyone is somewhat, oh I don't know, odd? Oh, well. Right now, I just need to focus on saving Fluttershy. Knowing her, she's probably the frailest one of the group. Then again, she did calm down that giant dragon in the mountains. How did she do it again? Talk to it? Fight it? I doubt it. Talking to it sounds about right. She's good with animals, though. How can she be in danger? Maybe hanging off a cliff? No, she's a pegasus. Trapped in some weird way? Pinkie's the answer to that… and maybe everything, now that I think about it. Stuck between a tree's grip? Applejack's strength can deal with that. What else could it be? Oh, we're going to the Everfree Forest? Ok, now I'm really worried. Last time I went there, I nearly had to stay awake so I wouldn't die. Luckily, for me, Zecora found me. I should thank her and maybe share some herbs with her. I need to restock my pile, now that I think about it. That sandwich and lunch took more than I expected. T'was good, though, very delicious, if I do say so myself. I wish she had kept the faren sauce, though. It would've made the meal complete. Oh well, at least she forgot her makers and inhaled that plate. I'm glad she ate. Oh, we turn left now? Ok. And a right? That's fast. Why are you stopp…ing...
Spike slowly looked up to see Fluttershy trapped by a large, living plant. It's tentacles had wrapped her hooves and wings, binding her means of escaping. Applejack and Pinkie Pie were also bounded by the tentacles, except, in a less… "erotic" way than Fluttershy.
… I've seen too much of this to know what should've happen...
Let's see: Large, living, tentacle plant binding three mares, and I'm standing here with my blade. Whom to free first...
He examined the situation. None of them are in grave danger, but it looks like Applejack and Pinkie Pie need help first. Fluttershy can wait just a little longer. He looked to his side and saw Rarity was still there. He motioned to her, signaling for her to back up. She saw his hand and looked at him.
"I'm going to cut Pinkie free first. Get ready to catch her." he ordered as he made eye contact with her.
She nodded and backed up a few steps. Spike drew his sword and got into his fighting stance. He tossed the sword lightly in to the air and caught it with his right hand, holding the sword as if it was a dagger. The bladed edge facing away from him, ready for cuts and shielding. With his sword at hand, he slowly moved the arm behind him while he moved his free, left hand in front of him. He gestured his free hand to get himself ready. He spread his legs, moving his forward foot up a little and his back foot was placed firmly to the ground. Both of his knees were bent, balancing his stance.
With a few breaths, he dashed to the closest pony: Pinkie Pie. He leapt on a tall rock before valeting himself to Pinkie Pie. Before she could even say hi, he slashed in mid-air, cutting the vines holding her. She fell down towards the tall rock.
"Rarity!" Spike screamed, "Catch her!"
On queue, Rarity caught Pinkie Pie just inches before she hits the rock. She pulled Pinkie Pie away from the rock and to the safe, soft ground. Spike sighed in relief. He landed on the rock and looked at Applejack, who seems to be struggling and calling it a "varmint". He angled himself toward Applejack and launched himself at a blinding speed. She kept struggling, trying to free herself. Spike landed on the vine she was bound to, which he didn't expect, but he worked with it. He slashed his footing vine, making himself and the earth pony fall. Fortunately Rarity kept a close watch and caught Applejack while Spike grabbed a different vine and swung to Fluttershy, cutting the tentacle-vines along the way. He finally made it to Fluttershy, who was pretty much panicking at that point. Spike let go of his vine and fell towards Fluttershy head on. He saw an opportunity to catch one of the tentacles and caught it. He slid down to the bound pegasus and stopped in front of her.
"Hi," he greeted under the strange conditions, "Want me to help?"
Spike struggled to hear her, but he already knew her answer. He slashed at the vines, freeing her wings, her hooves and her body. She was falling, and Rarity wasn't paying attention that time. Cursing, Spike let go of the vine and dived down to Fluttershy. He finally grabbed her, but they were closing in on the ground.
I think it's about time I use that right about now. Alright. Left palm out, fingers spread, Fluttershy's squeezing me, all set! "Tsu Ma De Na Sha"
The air slowly collected to Spike's hand. It compressed and compressed until he could see the rapid-moving air on his palm. As fast as he could, he threw the compressed air to the ground, and through the ground, unleashing it's fury from below. The air's rapid, uncontrollable attack made the soft ground cushiony enough to land safely. He turned, making his back land to the ground, successfully shielding her from the impact. Landing safely on the cushioned ground, Spike sighed in relief.
Phew. Everypony's safe. I thought I might've overdone it. Oh well, as long as they're safe, I can patch myself up later. Now, to get her-
A tentacle grabbed Spike's ankle and yanked him off the ground. Fluttershy fell off him, his sword next to her, as Spike was grabbed and shot to the sky. The force was so great that his cape fell off, revealing him. He was lifted until he met face to face with the plant's carnivorous mouth.
This. Can not be good.
In one swing, the tentacle threw Spike into it's mouth. Inside, he fought against it's slippery mouth and tried to escape. With every attempt he made, he sunk down further and further.
No! Not like this! Not when I finally got a chance to meet them! I'm. Not. Going. Down. NOW!!
He gathered all of his energy in one centered area. With all he had, Spike unleashed all of his energy into the dragon flame. The flame coated him like a second skin, making him literally on fire. With one last go, he focused all of his mana onto his palm. The fire mixed with his mana caused the fire to become unquenchable, but it wasn't enough. It needed more, more fury, more heat, more will.
I don't know if I should… I might never make it out alive, but it's better then letting this thing roam freely. Fine. It'll knock me out, but I'll eat it. Where is it? Come on, here we go! "Level 1" Good enough. Pop this pill and-Yaoza!
With all of his mana, energy, and the force that came with the pill he swallowed, he clawed the plant, bursting its very being into green flames. The plant flailed, trying to put out the fire, but was unsuccessful. It slowly burnt until it was just ash. Buried underneath the ashes was an unconscious dragon.
The mares saw that and quickly tried, desperately, to "un-ash" the dragon. They finally got to him. He was covered in black ash, practically unrecognizable. Scared to do so, Fluttershy checked for his pulse.
"………….Nothing."
No pulse was found in the dragon. The mares gasped in shock. There laid their savior, dead. Applejack took off her signature hat and placed it to her heart. Fluttershy and Rarity hugged each other, crying, trying to comfort each other. Pinkie Pie's mane and tail fell straight. All there was were four sad ponies and a dead dragon. They lifted his dead body and carried his belongings to Twilight's library. Once out of the forest, the mares shielded their eyes. The sun was shining brightly above them. They looked at the hulled dragon. Shifting him back into place, they walked to Twilight's home. The walk was long, but they didn't care. They just wanted to carry their hero to a peaceful burial.
Uhg. Remind me to never do that again… That practically costed me my life back there. Body's sore, that's for sure… I can't believe I just rhymed. Anyway, at least they're safe. That's all that matters now… no. I still haven't finished what I've started. I need to make amends… I need to do it… for her… I can't die now… Not now… It's cold. I feel… cold...
The group finally made it to Twilight's home, where a great sadness filled the room. They set him down on the floor. Rainbow Dash was hit the hardest, since she knew the guy the longest out of the six. Twilight proposed they preform a burial ceremony for the stranger. The mares looked at each other and all knew their answer: He deserved that much. Applejack said that she would go find a coffin for him. Rarity would decorate the insides of the coffin stating that, "The poor soul should be surrounded by something homely." Pinkie Pie would not throw a party, but organized a small funeral party. Fluttershy would get some music for the funeral, and last, but not least, Twilight would speak in his honor. The mares set off to do what they could for the dragon. Pinkie said, before they all dispersed, that she would not attend the party. Though, as odd it may have seemed, everypony understood why. Without anymore questions, they went their separate ways to get what the dragon deserved.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It's cold… I shouldn't die now… Not now when I still need to do that… I can't… I promised her I'd be there for her… and come back as a better dragon… I can't die now… What'll she think of me if I'm dead? Will she cry? Will she suffer more because of me? I can't… Wait… What's this warmth? I feel… warm again… A heartbeat. I hear a heartbeat. Is it mine? It is. I can feel it.
Spike slowly opened his eyes. It was pitch black. He couldn't see his hands, or even move much. He moved around gently, feeling his surroundings. It wasn't slimy like the plant. Not too ashy, like it should've been. He could feel flowers behind him. He turned his hands upward and felt wood above him.
So, I'm in a coffin? I guess it's time to leave this burial heap.
Spike felt around with his knee and found a good spot to kick. He found the perfect spot. He set the base of his foot on the spot. After three taps he kicked the coffin door, sending it sky high. The mares turned and looked on in disbelief as he grabbed ahold of the side of the coffin and pulled himself up into sitting position. He looked at himself, painted black in ash. He looked around, noticing he was in the library. Spike turned to look at the horrified mares.
"So," he said with a happy smirk on his face, "How's it going? Can I take a shower? I feel ashy."
Now, I've been a little suspicious 'bout that feller. Fluttershy here said that he was dead. She even checked his, um, pulse of whatever. Now explain to me, how in tarnation is he alive?! Not to mention he's over there givin' us a cocky smirk. Wipe that smile off your face. You're scaring everypony here, even me.
Twilight took a step forward, cautiously, towards the supposedly dead dragon.
“Um,” she asked, “Aren’t you, I mean, not to be rude or anything, but aren’t you-”
“Suppose to be dead?” He finished for her, “Nope. I took the LV 1 pill. Only a minor ‘death’. Nothing drastic.”
The mares exchanged questioning looks between one another before looking back at the dragon who jumped out of his coffin.
“Aww, last I need is ashes everywhere. Hey Twilight, can I use the shower really quick. I might need to clean the clothes too. Don’t want these to itch every time I wear them.”
“Sh-sure.” was all Twilight could muster.
“Cool. Thanks.” He said before he walked upstairs.
The girls could hear the curtains moving, the water falling, and the stranger’s scream of shock from the cold water. They looked at each other with much confusion.
“Mind if I ask who in tarnation is that feller?” Applejack asked, deciding to break the silence, “He’s more suspicious than Applebloom’s crush.”
“Applebloom’s what?” Twilight asked.
“Nevermind that last part,” Applejack said, dismissing the side topic.
“He said to call him Scales,” Rainbow Dash said, “but he won’t tell me his real name. All he said has “In due time, my friend”. Whatever that means.”
Fluttershy raised her hoof. “Um, if you don’t mind,” she chimed in, ”I want to say that he looks strangely familiar.”
Both Twilight and Rainbow Dash gasped at that remark. Applejack thought for a moment.
Now wait a darn minute. Now that I think about it… The feller does look like… neh. It can’t be. He wouldn’t come back yet… I thought he’d be dead, poor Spike. He was so young when he left. Why’d you do it Spike… why…
"Who do you think he looks like Fluttershy?" Raimbow Dash asked.
"Um… Spike…"
“Well, darling, I don’t quite see the resemblance.” Rarity said, “ I mean, let’s say hypothetically, it is my Spiky-wiky. He can’t grow up that large in 5 years. It’s just preposterous!”
“Then again,” Twilight pointed out, “I’ve read a book saying that dragons age quickly, but their lifespan is far longer than average ponies.”
“So your saying that he could be Spike?" Applejack asked, "But why would he come back?"
Everyone thought for a moment before hearing the shower turning off. They all quickly looked at each other and understood one clear message: Act natural.
Twilight sat down and levitated a book nearby so she could pretend to read it. Rainbow Dash looked for the nearest couch to pretend to sleep on. Rarity quickly looked at the only closest thing fabric-wise: the window curtains. Applejack took off her hat and nibbled on it, and Fluttershy just sat down. The stranger came into the room with no clothes on but a towel to wrap around his legs. His upper torso looked thin, but muscular, with a few battle scars. His arms were covered in scars. Some small, some medium-depth cuts, and some deep-flesh cuts that send chills down spines. After washing off the dirt and ash, and taking the hood off, the stranger actually looked quite handsome. For some odd reason, all the mares blushed red and quickly continued pretending to do their "casual things." He looked around as if he was searching for something.
"Hey," he asked, sending a shock and cold sweat to the mares, "Have you girls seen my sword?"
"O-oh, that thing?" Rarity said, somewhat panicked, "I-I've placed it i-in the k-kitchen, d-darling."
"Oh…kay?" the stranger raised an eyebrow, "thanks."
He walked of into the kitchen to search for his sword. The moment he was out of sight, the mares dashed up to Twilight's room and locked the door. Not a single sound was uttered, but everypony could guess what was on everypony else's minds: HOLY MOTHER OF CELESTIA, HE'S HOT!
"I-I don't know about you girls,"Applejack broke the awkward silence again, "b-but I'd say that he's not even close to S-spike."
"I-I don't know, darling," Rarity managed to say, "His color was c-close enough. Twilight, open the window, would you, dear? This mare needs some air."
Twilight struggled to levitate the window because she couldn't concentrate after seeing the stranger's body. She walked to the window and lifted it up, herself. Rarity dashed to the window and pushed Twilight out of the way, breathing heavily. Fluttershy hid behind Twilight's pillow trying to hide her heavy blushing. Rainbow Dash tried to act casual, but her cyan color wasn't helping with her bright red blush.
"I don't know, guys," Rainbow Dash interjected, "But he defiantly might be who I think he is."
"How can you be so sure," Applejack asked.
"I mean he has the scales color, his spikes are green, his little whiskers, his emerald eyes, everything about him seems right."
"I can hear you girls'" the stranger called from below, "Come on down. We all should get to know each other." The girls widen their eyes and looked at each other.
I don't know about the girls, but I'm not one to let myself get embarrassed over a stranger, especially not that stranger. Why, I'd be dumber then a rattlesnake tying itself int'a a knot. I'm not ready to meet the feller! Not… yet at least...
"I-I guess he must have something interesting to share if he's going to call us down," Twilight said, struggling to keep her posture.
"Then l-let's go girls," Rainbow Dash said as she unlocked the door, "Don't want to keep the dragon waiting."
The mares were somewhat relaxed. The dragon had heated his clothes with his fire so they would dry quickly. He knew what they were talking about, and he didn't want them to feel uncomfortable when around him. Though it may be helpful to some extent, the mares were still nervous, mainly because he heard everything they were talking about. With some courage, Twilight asked the first question, though with much difficulty.
"S-so um, f-first off: t-thank you for saving m-my friends."
The dragon raised an eyebrow as if she stated the obvious. He leaned back to the couch's back rest.
"No problem?" the confused dragon said, "I mean it's nothing much. Just doing what a friend can do."
The girls looked at each other before looking back to the dragon who was casually sitting on the couch, drinking tea.
"We can ask you anything, right?" Twilight calmly asked.
"Depends on the question," he responded before taking another sip.
"Ok, bub," Rainbow Dash demanded, "Who are you?"
"I did say to call me 'Scales'," he said, before he formed his signature smirk, "Now this is a perfect set-up for me to tell you all my real name but I'll hold onto that for a little while. I want you girls to find out yourselves. You're smarter then this, I hope."
Hey, stranger! Alright cowgirl, now's not the time to get mad. What question to ask him. I say he couldn't be Spike. True, Rainbow Dash here did say his colors fit and I'd say they do, but that doesn't mean I'm completely convinced.
"Um, so you're a real dragon?" Fluttershy asked.
Gosh darn it girl! Even Ah know he's a dragon and I'm not the animal expert! Is your mind empty and full of dust or something?
The stranger only stared at Fluttershy with a dumbfound look. He then lifted his free hand and slapped it to his face.
"Um… I'll… take that as a yes then."
"So, you're a traveler right?" Rainbow Dash asked, "Where did you go?"
"I, uh, went to a place to deal with someone," The stranger said, "I'm not comfortable talking about it."
"Why?" Twilight spoke.
"I just don't want to-"
"I mean why did you have to fight someone?" Twilight said, cutting in.
The stranger hesitated before answering, "Because I want to clean a slate." He stared down at his drink.
The mares looked at each other worriedly.
"Oh, darling. Everything's going to be fine. You just have to finish your business and things will move on, correct?"
He shook his head, not lifting it up to look at the mares.
"It's," the dragon said before pausing and starting again, "It's not as simple as that."
"Why, whatever it is, we'll help you," Rarity said, trying to comfort him, "won't we, girls?"
The mares looked at each other before nodding in agreement.
This stranger is really somethin', I'll give em that. He's pretty sad. Poor feller...
Applejack got up from her seat and walked over to the sad dragon. She stood in front of him, but he didn't raise his head. She sighed and sat next to him.
"It's ok, little guy," Applejack said, patting his back, "There's nothing to be sad about. Come here."
She reached out to him and hugged him, trying to comfort him. He sighed and pushed her away, but he did smile and look at her.
"Thanks. I needed that."
"Anytime, partner," she said with a jab to the shoulder.
Well I'll be darned. He's kinda cute, now that I think about it, almost like-
"Spike" she said without realizing it, "It's you. You're back."
Spike was shocked to hear that from Applejack, but a warm, homely smile slowly formed on his face.
"Yea," he said softly with as tear fell down his cheek, "I'm home."
Everypony gasped and covered their mouths. Spike, the young Spike they all knew and loved had come home. Rainbow Dash was the first to tackle-hug him off his seat, then Twilight joined, then Fluttershy, then Rarity. The only reason Applejack didn't hug him was because she was knocked over with the couch. She got up, brushed off her hat, put it on, and walked towards the pile of crying ponies that were covering and hugging, if not squeezing, the dragon. She got to him on the side of his free arm.
"You okay there, partner?" she asked.
Spike chuckled.
"Yea. Think you can help me up? I can't breath with them on me."
"Sure, Spike. Come on now."
"Humph" He made the sound before looking into her eyes, "I'm home.
Applejack blinked for a moment before smiling again.
"Welcome home, Spike."
She reached out her hoof to Spike. He smiled and grabbed her hoof.
Aww. You guys must really love me to make Ventan make a me chapter. He was suppose to make a Rarity chapter, but you guys were demanding me so much, that he caved in and did it! Oh, I'm so happy I could… Well, I can't dance and spin because it's just words, but you can imagine me dancing and spin and-Oh! Even imagine me right now talking to you! Hi, reader! I'm Pinkie Pie. Well, you would already know that otherwise you wouldn't know who I am without looking through the web and finding the answer, but why would you look through the web? It's full of spiders and eggs and dead bugs and other yucky things!
Oh no! I'm getting off track. Sorry, guys. I'll try to be as normal as I can. Oh no! I talked to you again. *gasp* And again! *gasp* And I did it again! Ok! I'm going to stop NOW!!!… Ok. So it's been a few days after Spike's revelation. I already knew it was Spike, but I never got a chance to even say hi to him. He sliced the vine so fast that I couldn't even say anything, Rudie Pants. But it's ok. I'm alright now since Spike's back. I really thought he would die because Ventan was planning to end at a little later time, but come on! Where's the suspense? The drama? The action? Well, we just covered action, but it's not enough. The romance? The finale!?
Oh no! I got off track again! I'll get back to it now, guys! Alright, where was I?... Oh yea! So, Spike lives in an apartment because 1. Spike can't sleep in his small, ity-bity basket, but Twilight has two beds, but this is also where number 2 comes in: It's not fair for Twilight to keep Spike under her roof. Who knows what they could be doing? They could do things behind our backs, but the readers would know dirty little secret going on. And no! No clops here! It's rated "Everyone" for a reason. Come on, guys. Get with the program. Ventan can't even write a clop in the first place. He's not mature enough. No offense, Ventan.
Now then, as I was saying: He lives in an apartment because of that reason. He's doing pretty well, but he sometimes gets sad when we mention about "it". "It" is the thing where Spike has to- No! Phew. I almost told you guys the spoilers. Can't do that now, can I? He'd get mad at me if I did.
D-oh! Come on, girl! Focus! *Ahem* So, after a while, we all started to grow an affection towards him, myself included. I didn't see him topless, but because I'm Pinkie Pie I can imagine him in various things with those hot scars. Yep. Ventan's head-cannon for my fetish in this story. I love scars, but only battle scars. They are hot like lava cakes. Not from me, of course. That's not good. I can't fight, silly. I have an all-purpose cannon for a reason. Duh! Why else would I need it? Parties all the time? Have you not seen it's insides? It's loaded with black powder ready to go "KABOOM!!!". And it also has a candy dispenser, an engine in case I need to ride to the next party, self-making party streamers, and all sorts of things this party mare needs.
Ok. Getting off track again. Man, we can't get anything done, can we? Well, I'll stop now. Back to telling you what happe-
How about I tell it from here? Knowing you, you'd probably get off track like all your previous paragraphs.
*Gasp* Why did she add you?!
Because A: I can keep on track, unlike you. And B: Because Ventan is slamming her head on the desk because of your consistent "fourth wall destruction."
I… can not object that...
So it's official? I'm telling the story?
Sure. I don't want to waste time on this *insert dramatic music* "Epic Soon To Be Drama"!
That's as close of a spoiler you're gonna get from us, folks. Now then, back to the story. *Ahem* Let's see… Spike living in-got that already, ya-da ya-da, his scars-got that. Oh! Here we go. So he's been living peacefully, with the occasional trolling. (That's right, you heard me. Trolling.) He told stories that were, and I quote, "20% cooler then your stunts." (This is all yesterday guys, so you won't lose track.) After the story telling and Rainbow Dash's consistent after-story questions, he cooked some food and, man, oh man, was it delicious! Once we finished dinner (yes, dinner) We all headed our separate ways, to our homes and sleep (except for Spike. He had to go to an apartment). And now, here we are at the present.
Pinkie Pie woke up at nine and began her morning routine of eating a fluoride cupcake. She chewed on it for two minutes, spit it out, and rinsed her mouth. She greeted Gummy, who was just sitting there on her drawers, and ran downstairs. She quickly made her daily batch of cupcakes and set them on the display. After she finally completed all of her morning chores, she walked up to the door sign and flipped it to "Open." She walked back to the counter, and she waited. And waited. And waited.
Well, since we got nothing to do until twelve, why don't we do something special to out readers?
Oh, right. The gang's coming here at twelve, aren't they. Well, we've got nothing better to do. What do you want to do?
Well, usually at this time I start thinking about how the "bronies" came to be.
Weren't there, like, multiple Youtube videos about this?
Yea, but I just didn't expect us to get so popular. Did you? I know I didn't.
Honestly, no, but after watching some of the vides, I can see why.
Yeah. Hey, have you seen Generation 3 My Little Pony?
Oh god, don't even start. That's not a show. That's not even advertisement; It's a show that makes guys cringe and girls get nightmares.
I don't know. Some girls might like it, but I'm not sure about boys.
Is this a potential red flag if we keep this up? We, Ventan and I, feel a chill down our spine as we speak.
I guess we should. We don't want dislikes flooding this story, especially if it'll ruin the finale.
Speaking of finales, why don't we share some news with the readers? Yes, I'm talking about you guys out there.
Oh! That's a great idea! But we must promise that we can't speak or mention of spoilers. That's bad.
Yea. I promise.
No! We have to Pinkie Promise.
… Really? Do we have to? We're both Pinkie Pie, well, except for me since I'm Pinkamena, but still part of Pinkie Pie.
We're both doing the Pinkie Promise. No ifs, ands, or buts missy!
Fine.
Cross my heart and hope to fly, Stick a cupcake in my eye. Cross my heart and hope to fly, Stick a cupcake in my eye.
There. Happy?
Yep! Now then, we can say the announcements.
Ok, first off, let's look at the "Valentines Special." Guys, the results you will see were taken at January 19 at 11 pm. There may be more added in the future. Also, we will not mention the ones that only got one vote. There's so many of them, it's ridiculous! Remember, the deadline is on Valentines Day. Go vote now. Ok. Now let's look at the-Whoa-ho-ho!
Yikes. SpkexApplejack is charging in hot with 9 votes so far! That cowgirl might get the man, er, dragon!
But watch out, though, cause SpikexTwilight is catching up with 6 votes. Will the bookworm get her number one assistant back, and maybe some more?
So far, SpikexRarity is falling short with 5 votes. That fashionista's not going to get her "Spiky-wiky" anytime soon.
Surprisingly, SpikexFluttershy and SpikexLuna is tied with 3 votes. Wonder who will rise between those two?
And last, but not least, SpikexSweetie Belle nearly got out of the unmentioned by one point! Oh, so close! Well, that's all for this ballet. Anything else we should cover?
What about Spike's pills he used before "dying?"
Oh, the pills, ok. So Spike has five levels of pills, each boosting his power to a very high level. Though as strong it may be, the consequences are, like, super-duper dangerous! If the Lv 1 pill put him in a "minor death" state, who knows what'll happen if he uses the Lv 5 pill! If you're wondering how many of each he has, it's one per level. He makes the pills using various herbs and adds in his magic to it for the finishing touch. He already replaced his Level 1 pill, so he should have one of each. Anything else we should cover, other side of me that shouldn't exist in the first place?
Um…1. So~ OOC for you. 2. What about his sword? Somebody's going to ask that sooner or later. Plus, it's going to be important later so we should tell them about it.
Alrighty! We all know it's made of Orichalcum, a rare and hard to obtain material. He got these materials when he lost a fight to another dragon. Poor guy. Striving to become even better, he heard about the metal and ventured out to get it. He came to a cave where he fought, used his smarticals, and eventually made some sacrifices to get the metal! If you guys want really want, Ventan can make a story out of that. He already came up with everything! Just ask, and he'll do it after this story comes to a close!
It's 11:58.
Holy Celestia, that was fast!
Yeah, these announcements took more time then expected.
And there they are!
Spike and the girls walked into the shop.
"Hey guys," Pinkie Pie greeted cheerfully, "Take a seat. What can I get cha'?"
They sat down on the table nearest Pinkie Pie. Spike and the others took a moment before answering.
"I'll take a sapphire sprinkled cupcake, please," Spike ordered.
"Marshmallow Surprise for me, darling."
"Let me have the Rainbow Zap!"
"I'll take an Apple Fritter. No cupcakes for me today, sugercube.
"And I'll just take some DHA gummies."
"Coming right~ up!" Pinkie shouted.
Off in the distance, a stranger stood in the alleyway to Sugarcube Corner, hiding in plain sight.
"Hey, I found him," he messaged using magic, "Time to execute operation 'Dragon'."
Mhm mhm mhm! Pinkie's cupcakes are just simply divine! Always sweet, but not too sweet; moist, but leaves a hint of crunch. And the best part is that it's sugar free! oh those sweet crystals would ruin me complexion. Oh. Oh darn. I must get back to the shop. I need to finish those designs for DeFrecion. He needs the designs today, and I've already prolonged my stay. I must leave and finish my work now!
"Well girls. It's been fun staying and chatting," Rarity said as she got up, "but I need to finish my next work. DeFrecion needs them today."
"Aww, Rarity." Spike pleaded, "Can't you stay a little longer?"
No! Not that face! Please Spike! Not that face! It's to cute to look away from! No! Come on Rarity! Must! Break! Free!
"I-I'm sorry Spike" Rarity struggled, "b-but I m-must f-finish my d-designs."
"Oh." He looked away and frowned, "I guess so."
He looked up and smiled at her.
"Well, I know you'll do a great job on your work like you always have."
DEAR PONIES OF THE SKIES!! TAKE ME NOW!!!
"W-why, thank you S-spike," she said as she tries to resist her urges, "Well, d-darling. I'll be o-off now."
The gang said their farewells and off Rarity leaves with much discomfort.
Oh, air! I need as much air as I can! This is too much, even for me! Spike! The Spike I knew! Now he's-GHAAAA!!!! Rarity mentally fangirled as she tries to walk to her shop, careful of not falling or tripping over her step. She reached to her shop just barely in time before she dashed to her room, locked the door, grabbed her pillow, and screamed into it.
The spy hurled himself through the room, startling Rarity. Before she could even react, he threw a needle dipped in a custom-made drug. The needle flew through the air and punctured Rarity's neck. She winced in pain as she felt the needle's drug slowly taking it's effect. She began to feel dizzy, and soon after she plopped down onto her bed. The spy brushed himself and looked around.
"Yuck, man," he observed, "Pink everywhere. Just finish this, man. Just finish this."
He took the note he was carrying and placed it on the bed. Not wanting her to wake up and make her scream, he levitated the blanket and ripped it to pieces. First, he gagged her so she couldn't make a sound. Next, he tied her up so she wouldn't flail like a child. His cell rang, waking up Rarity. Cursing under his breath, he quickly levitated her to the center of the room and high off the ground. She struggled to move her body with the drug still in effect. With no hope left, she attempted to use magic. Nothing.
"Don't even bother," the stranger said, "your mind's in a numbing state. You shouldn't use magic or move around much. Now then…"
He answered his cell.
"Yeah?"
"ARE YOU DONE YET!?" boomed the voice from the cell.
"Just captured her," he said after he jerked his head away, "You doubt my speed?"
"Considering that you've taken your time, yes." the voice grunted, "Can you, for once, complete you task without postponing it?"
"Don't worry. Soon, you'll have your 'rematch' against that Spike guy."
The voice's laugh boomed through the magic, echoing through his cell and Rarity's room.
"Yes. YES! I can almost taste it. Spike's blood will be drawn by me and I will finish what I should have done years ago."
"I'm ending the call now," he said, and the magic died out. He turned to Rarity who was still tied and gagged in the air. The stranger kept her steady in mid-air with his magic.
"So," he commented, "You're one of the Elements. It's an honor to be in the presence of The Element of Generosity." He did a quick bow before getting up and walk slowly toward Rarity.
"Since you're the generous one, can you come with us and see your dear, loving dragon die before your very eyes?" he asked as he stopped in front of her, rather closely, "It'll be quite a sight with him bleeding to death and dying by his hands."
Rarity tried to scream through the gag in her mouth and fight against the drug along with his magic, but all was in vain.
"Oh, so it's a yes then?" he joked around, "Splendid! This is a joyous day for all of us! LET THERE BE BLOOD SHED! AHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!"
Hmm. Rarity looked really scared about not finishing her work. I wonder if there's anything I can do… Oh, I can just go to her and ask. Duh. Like I use to do a long time ago. Ok, then- Wha… what's with this chill… Don't tell me-
Spike got up from his seat, startling everypony from their conversation.
"I'm going to check up on Rarity," he said quickly, "do you guys mind?"
"Of course not Spike," Twilight replied, somewhat confused, "In fact, why don't we all go see her. She did look like she needed help."
"Thanks."
He quickly turned to the door.
Please… Don't tell me…
Without hesitating, he dashed out of the door, leaving the mares lost and confused. They looked at each other and a sense of worry quickly filled the room. Nodding, they ran after Spike, who had already made it to Rarity's shop. Panting in exhaustion, he took a quick breather before knocking. No reply. He knocked again, only harder and louder. No reply again. Impatient, he opened the door.
"Hello?" he called, "Rarity?"
Echo and silence was all that was heard.
"Rarity?" he called again.
Again, echo and silence was all that was heard in the shop.
She said that she would be working on the designs. How come she's not here? Wait… Her room? But it's not nice to barge into someone else's room. Then again… who said I was nice?
He dashed upstairs and to her bedroom door. He knocked on the door, waiting, hoping for an answer. Nothing.
Buck. This.
He gripped the door handle and forced the door open. His eyes widened. The window was shattered, glass shards on the ground, ponyquines were destroyed or knocked down, the bed ruined, with a piece of paper sitting on it, and worst of all: no Rarity. Rage began to fill Spike's mind, but he kept his cool. On queue, the girls came through the entrance of the shop.
"Spike?" Twilight called, "Rarity?"
"Up here…" he called back.
The mares bolted to the source of Spike's voice, and once up to Rarity's rom, they gasped at the horror. Fear slowly took their faces. Spike had his head down with a bereft expression, his fists clenched in rage. Slowly, small sparks of dragon fire formed around his fists. He was about to scream in rage before Twilight patted his back, shocking him into reality.
"We can save her," Twilight reassured, "I know we can. We just have to figure out who's behind all of this, and then save Rarity. It's going to be ok, Spike."
… Ok, Twilight. Ok…
Spike loosened his fist, and the fire slowly died out. He inhaled and exhaled. Closing his eyes, he refocused all of his senses that were blinded by his rage. Opening his eyes, he calmed down, but still had a hint of anger. The first thing he noticed was the paper on the bed. Unwillingly, he walked towards the folded paper and opened it. It was a note.
Spike, Have you tasted a hint of rage yet? I hope you did. You want to know where your little pony is? Come meet me at our battleground. I know that you know where I'm talking about. I'll see you there, friend.
Irritated, he lit the note on fire, letting it slowly wither away in the air. With his back still turned to the confused, frightened mares, he sighed.
"Girls," he said before he walked to the broken window, "I'm going on a little trip."
Shocked and confused, Rainbow Dash asked, "Why Spike? Where's Rarity?"
"It's better if you don't know." he said, still holding his back to the mares.
"Um, is Rarity alright?" Fluttershy questioned.
"She should be." He responded, "He has no reason to hurt her."
"Who?" Applejack demanded, "Who would do such a thing?"
"It's better if you don't know," he commanded, "He's a monster and I don't want you girls involved. I don't want you to get hurt," He paused, "Because of me."
Without giving the mares time to ask anymore questions, he jumped out of the broken window and ran to the library to get ready for the "visit." He swung the door open and quickly grabbed his things: his bag, which contains the pills, his hooded cape, and his trusty sword. He was about to depart before looking back to see if there was anything he missed.
As he scanned, he saw, out of the corner of his eyes, his book. It contained all of his entries and notes, from logues about his day as a lone dragon, to his adventures into the depths where no pony or dragon had ever ventured before; from the herbs he learned, to his recipes.
Fluttershy might like it. It even has the her favorite recipes for tea. She'd like that…
Smiling one last time before departing, he gave one last look.
It's weird. I'm treating this as if it's the last time I'll ever see this place again. I'm just getting Rarity and leaving. That's all…
With that daunting thought in mind, he left the room, then the library altogether. Spike looked left and right, making sure not to run into any pony when he cast the teleportation spell. It required him to have complete and absolute concentration for the spell to work, otherwise, he would end up somewhere extremely near the start, or extremely far from his destination. He checked again before casting the spell.
Alright, let's see if I can remember the steps. 1. Concentrate on the circle. Make all the runes, symbol and markings in the circle. Don't miss a single mark, or else the it will become a whole different spell. 2. Where am I going? Focus and visualize where it is. 3. Focus on physically being there. Lastly, jump into the circle.
As spike concentrated, the ground underneath him glowed. A bright mark slowly formed around him. More showed up and formed the runes; Some formed the circle. Others made the marks and runes. With one last breath, he hopped into the circle and disappeared with a "Whoosh."
He slowly opened his eyes to the sound of birds chirping, leaves whistling in the wind, and water moving along a stream. He looked up at what was ahead of him. He gulped.
Never once did I think about coming here again. Geez. *sigh* Rarity, here I come.
Spike ran into the one place he swore never to go in again, the place he made sure to destroy himself in; the Cavern of Greed. He dashed through the long entrance of the cave. Before long, he met up with and stopped in front of the first trial: Hoard. Ready to face anything in his way to save Rarity, Spike pushed the double doors leading to Hoard. He took a few steps in before the doors shut themselves behind him. Spike didn't look back. Instead, he was focused on the being sitting in front of him: Hoard, The Storage Keeper. Known for the greed of most dragons, he took shape of anything in front of him. Before, he had looked like a large blob of meat on an orange dragon, but after he morphed his shape, he looked exactly like Spike. The room was filled with many gold coins that the greediest of dragons would beg for death just to see.
"Who's there," the Spike figure demanded. He may have looked like Spike, but his deep voice said otherwise.
"Yo, Hoard," Spike called casually, "How's it going? You've lost a few pounds."
"That voice," Hoard recalled, "Why are you here, Spike the Dragon?"
"Oh. Nice of you to remember that name. As for why I'm here-"
He unsheathed his sword and pointed the blade at Hoard.
"I'm here to get my friend back. Now move, or else I'll move that fat ass myself."
Hoard shot a booming laughter, shaking the cavern.
"Move me? Boy-"
He slowly got up from his tall, kingly chair. He slowly raised his left arm in the air and spread his palm. The gold coins levitated in the air. With one snap of Hoard's fingers, the gold coins rushed to his raised palm and eventually formed a giant, golden scythe. Spike swallowed. He had fought against Hoard and the scythe, called "Blissful Death", before. It was a scythe 5 feet in length, and the blade was 3 feet by 3 inches. It was a menacing design, with the handle curved like the blade. That was not to mention it could fire golden coins as it's projectile. In addition to it's range utility, the blade itself could cut the very air, sending pressured air at the speed of sound.
"Are you ready, Spike the Dragon?" Hoard asked.
"Yep," Spike smirked his signature grin, "Ready? Let's party!"
With that remark, Spike charged at Hoard, who had already swung his scythe, sending the first air cut. With not a moment to think, his body naturally took a sidestep and dodged the cut.
"What's wrong, Spike the Dragon?" Hoard roared as he raised his scythe, "Have you lost your touch?"
Without responding, he flashed toward Hoard. With blade at hand, he aimed to end the battle quickly, but Hoard was prepared. He had his fist ready, and swung at Spike. Spike's fast reflexes quickly saved him. He guarded with his sword as Hoard swung his fist, sending Spike into the air. With the scythe still at hand, he sent another air cutter to Spike and this time Spike couldn't dodge. The air did some damage, scratching his hard scales and cutting some flesh. He flew and crashed to the wall.
That hurts…
He slowly got up and wobbled as he stood. He peered at Hoard, who was laughing.
"What happened to you, Spike the Dragon?!" Hoard yelled, "You seem to have fallen shorter then I last remembered."
"I'm just warming up," Spike called, "Here I come!"
He spun his sword in front of him and slammed it back, burying half of the blade into the rock-hard cavern wall. He jumped onto the sword and planted his foot on the hilt. Focusing on his leg, he jumped from the sword and charged toward Hoard. He charged his hands with fire as he flew to the keeper. Hoard had already readied the scythe, and he swung it again. This time, Spike was ready. He spin-punched the air cutter, reigniting his fist with the wind's rich mana supplement from the cut. With the withdraw of the air cut, he landed and stooped to the ground, kneeling. He was only half way to Hoard, but his fists were coated in fire that was hotter then the one he used on the living plant.
Whoa! This is more than I thought! Is this the after effect of the pill?! He did say that with every use, my fire would be hotter and more potent. Well, let's see how potent!
He aimed at the floor under him with both of his palm spread out. Estimating the amount he should apply, Spike shot out a stream of fire that launched him in the air.
Yikes! I can fly?! Wait a moment… I wonder if…
With his left palm aiming down and his right palm aiming behind him, he ejected a consistent stream of flames, mainly on his right. He launched himself at Hoard, who was trying to recover from the shock. Spike was almost to Hoard. He halted the flames; propulsion was his momentum. He dove at Hoard and grabbed his shoulders. In one motion, he threw Hoard to the air as he landed on the kingly chair. Planted his feet on the chair, Spike launched himself up to the flying monster. Spike had the first say. He flew to Hoard with his right fist forward. He anticipated Spike's attack and blocked his little punch. With his fist ready, he swung at Spike, but Spike also blocked the hit. He threw a kick, but Hoard also blocked and followed up with a knee to the gut. Spike quickly punched the knee to counter the attack. Soon, it was a trade of blows and blocks until Spike did an uppercut kick to the jaw on Hoard. He was sent flying to the roof of the cave and landed head first through the ceiling. Spike saw the opportunity and charged his fire in his right fist. With each second the fire grew and grew, and every time it grew, Spike condensed it smaller and smaller till eventually it was a small orb of pure, molten heat of fire. It was so hot that even Spike can feel a small tingle from the orb. With Hoard still stuck to the roof, he decided to say his farewell.
"Yo Hoard!" Spike called, "I moved your fat ass. Cya!"
With the orb practically heating up his hand, he aimed his fist at the helpless gatekeeper. In one go, he shot the stored energy at Hoard. The recoil send Spike down and Hoard straight through the rocky ceiling and into the sky. Luckily, Spike was already descending quickly, landing on the kingly chair first. Knowing that Hoard dropped the scythe and can't do anything, he got off of the chair, brushed himself, and sat down on the mighty chair. Hoard came falling fast. Spike looked up at Hoard, then look at down at the horizon. Hoard landed on the high back of the chair with his back. Hearing a snap, Spike knew he won the fight.
And that, folks, is how you do it in style.
He got up from the chair and walked to get his sword. On his way, his foot bumped on something. He looked down to see the scythe Hoard used. Curious, he bent down and picked up the scythe. He examined the scythe for a while before flashes of memories suddenly flooded in his head. The memories showed past owners of the scythe and explained on how to wield it, how to use it, and most importantly: how to tame it. With the painful memories slowly stopping, Spike could nearly stand. He looked at the scythe he wielded. A grin slowly envelop on Spike's face. He slashed the air in a rhythmic way as he danced with the scythe. As the grand finale, he swung the scythe to the left and the right so fast that it made the illusion of demonic wings.
Blissful Death, welcome to the team.
The scythe disbursed, sending gold coins in the air and floating in place. A moment passed, and the gold coins quickly rejoined on Spike's palm. Whirling around, it slowly condensed until it was just a small handle, heavy as the scythe. He did a quick toss before catching it in mid air and sliding it in his gauntlet. Remembering his sword, he walked to where he thrusted it in the wall. It took him a while, but he managed to find it. It was as it always was; Still perfect. With a little swing for good measure, he sheathed his sword and continued on, toward the cavern's boss and where Rarity would be.
Just hang on, Rarity. I'm coming for ya.
With that, Spike sprinted down and deeper in the dungeon.
Man, I don't remember the halls to be this long. If anything, I should've met the second guy. What's his name again? I forgot… Oh, well. He was probably just as easy as Hoard. I'd like to warm up, fighting against him again. He was, I hope, good. Ok. Now I know I passed the third guy's room. I know those marks on the walls. Man, was it brutal. I had to control him to win that fight. Who knew all you needed was to hug the bastard and let him, oh I don't know, drain your mana 'til it's dry. He got what he wanted: a large supply of mana to feed off of. Sadly for him, I am a pool that never fully ends. I'm a bucking magical dragon that was raised up by the pony whose cutie mark is "magic" and she's the "Element of Magic!" Take that Bob! Alright, alright. I'm off track. Lately, I've been doing that a lot, getting off track when I have nothing to do. Well, except for running down this-Is this ever going to end!? Oh hey. Do...or...
Spike slowed his pace as he came closer to the large, stone double-doors. Above read the sign "King's Room," and already Spike had a cold sweat dripping down his cheek. He knew what was behind the doors. Shaking, he pushed them open and slowly walked forward. Beyond the plane of rocks and pebbles laid Rarity in a large birdcage hanging from the ceiling. She wasn't conscience and seemed to have been treated brutally. Spike clenched his fists in anger, but still kept his calm. Beneath the prison was a figure standing in front of a large black fire. Despite it's color, it illuminated a "dark" glow that sent shivers down his spine. The large figure turned, but Spike couldn't make out the features of the figure. It stood on two legs and seemed to have it's hands behind its back. The figure's clothes were metallic, sending a small reflection of light. Next to him was something Spike remembered very well: a double-edged, two-handed bastard sword impaled into the ground. Its bat-winged hilt design, along with its long, thick, heavy blade made blocking painful. To add to the effect, it was surrounded by the dark aura of the dead souls it had captured in battle. The blade was sharp as it ever could be. Just by looking, Spike could tell that the blade was sharpened for this reason and this reason only: To kill Spike.
Taking a breath, Spike slowly made way to the figure. With every step, the atmospheric pressure grew and grew until eventually it was hard for Spike to breath. His body felt heavy, and with every step it became heavier and heavier until he struggled to even move his fingers, let alone walk, but he forced himself to keep walking. He could feel his energy slowly drain as he got closer to the standing figure. He knows that it's going to the fire; his fire. Before he could continue to think he made it to the steps. It wasn't high, but he struggled to even take the first step. He looked up at the figure who was looking back down at him. They met eye to eye, and soon the figure laughed.
"How goes it, Spike?" the familiar voice called in a smooth, definite tone, "Was Hoard that easy? I've got to say, I should've expected no less from the one who controlled his 'inner demon.' I believe you, my friend, deserve an applause. Come on. I'll even clap for you."
The figure uncrossed her arms and clapped. The clap was dim, but was clear enough for Spike to hear. The clapping slowed down and soon came to a halt.
"What?" asked the figure, "Am I not enlightening you on your struggle of control? Have I failed to entertained you-Oh! That's right! ...You hate me."
The figure began walking back and forth, waving hand gestures as she went.
"How can I be so delusional about the dragon 'Spike' who has come here, to my cave might I add, to rescue his beloved friend? I'm so jealous of you, you know that? You have power. You have power that could very well DESTROY! ALL! OF EQUESTRIA! But what did you do? Huh? You BANISHED THE POWER! You chose THEM over US! THEM OVER US!! YOUR PEOPLE! YOUR WORSHIPERS-But it's ok. It's all right."
She slowly walked to the black fire pit. She walked closer and closer until she was on the edge of the pit. By then, he could see her clearly, her red scales illuminated by the black fire, her graceful figure as she bent down and looked into the large fire pit. She was taller then he remembered, but only by Luna's height. Her amber eyes had a gentle, kind side to them. She was somewhat on the thin side, causing Spike to wonder if she ever ate at all. Last he remembered, she was a little younger then he was and still was. She peered down into the pit before looking at the slowly tiring dragon.
"This," she began with a small chuckle then whispered slyly, "I know what this is."
She reached out and grabbed a small bit of the fire and playfully walked back to Spike. When she reached to Spike, she squatted down until they met eye to eye. With the black fire at hand, she began to play with it in front of the still dragon.
"This," she whispered, but then talked like she was before, "This-ahahah. This is some crazy still, man. This fire. Is. Bucking. Crazy. You had it, you know. Oh, that's right. This was your's. Your 'death fire'; your butter and bread. You had this fire in your core before. See this-"
The figure brought it close to Spike.
"-is, ah, was your fire. The fire we all worshiped because it saved us. You remember-"
She turned to Rarity and pointed in disgust.
"-those ponies kept us as slaves. Yeah, I know you remember, friend. Slaves: no one knew, because no one told. We were in the bucking cell and were tortured for days, my friend. DAYS! And then you came to save us and we complied with your demands! We executed the slave owners, we pillaged the joint, we burned it to ashes! ALL! FOR! YOU!! And, haha, what do we get?" she spoke slowly and gently, "You turning your back on us. You came in here and killed our savior. You killed the one we worshiped. Look-"
She held the fire near Spike. The fire edged toward Spike, but couldn't reach him.
"-he wants his daddy again. He's been lonely, Spike. So-"
Reaching to Spike, she grabbed his hands and lifted them up to their eyes. The figure gently placed the fire on Spike's hands and closed them.
"Take him back, Spike." she said gently, "Become our savior again. Become the one we all called 'Lord Savior'. Go on. Do it." Spike looked down at the fire on his palm. The dark, tempting fire tried to make Spike take it in again. It wanted him and itself to become one again. Despite all of the temptation, he destroyed the fire, letting it slowly fly away and wither in the air. The figure stared wide-eyed at the witnessed betrayal.
"Angel," Spike reasoned carefully, "Stop this madness now. Release my friend and let me leave with her, or else," Spike quickly drew his sword and swung it near Angel's neck, "I'm gonna' have to kill you."
Angel smiled a demonic smile. She opened her mouth, and a black ball of fire sat on her reptilian tongue.
"Try me," the dragon hissed before attacking.
She shoved the sword away and vaulted next to the bastard sword. She grabbed the blade and swung a wide cut, sending a black, ghastly wave towards Spike. With all the strength he could muster, he dodged away from the flying cut. He watched as the cut flew towards the wall behind him. All he saw afterward was the wall tumbling down on impact.
Geez, girl! What have you been doing for the past 5 years!?
He turned quickly back to Angel to get ready for the next attack, but she was already in the air. He tried to shield with his arms, but was already flying from Angel’s knee to the side, dropping his sword in the process. The force was too great to move, making him spin until, before long, he crashed into a wall. Still sore, he sat in exhaustion while Angel stood and laughed at Spike, followed by, "What's wrong, Spike? What happened to the dragon that single-handedly wiped out a black market organization? What happened to the 'legendary' dragon that lead a band of freedom fighters?"
Angel began walking towards the blacking out dragon, "What happened to the dragon who lead us to freedom? What happened to the one that swore that he'd finish what he started? What happened to-"
She was already next to Spike and knelt down next to his ear whispering, "-the one whom I loved."
The words gradually sunk in deep into his subconscience. Before he could even react, his fatigue finally took over, and he blacked out altogether. Angel saw that and snickered. She lifted his head with the back of the blade, making Spike meet eye to eye with her. Her amber eyes looked into Spike's and saw the lifelessness in them. She smiled. With a slight nudge, she pushed Spike to the ground like the lifeless doll he was. Wanting more fun then a jump and a kick, Angel lifted Spike by his neck and hurled him across the room. Without much struggle, Spike just flew and bounced across the rocky floor. His body finally slowed to a stop, laying on the cold ground, insentient.
Damn… I was so close… She's gone… Angel… What happened to you? You use to be the laughing girl… You helped me take down the leader… I had to… I'm sorry, Angel… I had to… Greed was growing in me… I wanted to make sure you wouldn't be like me… The greedy monster that would have destroyed everything… Heh… Remember the time we were burning the stock down? Our fire became the symbol of hope for the slaves. We swore on the flames that we would end the evil that was known as "The Black Ponies." We made the organization burn to the ground and knew we won. But look at you… You've become what I was: the monster giving in to her desires. You wanted me back. You wanted me to stay instead of going back to the "weak ponies." I didn't listen… and came here to banish my greed. I didn't want you to be like me, Angel. You were so young… and you've become a fighter. And now you're giving into your desires. You want me back… That bad… You were a great friend, Angel. I'm glad, at least, that you're safe…
Oh… And Rarity too… She's fine… He's with her… Damn him… Had to make all of this complicated… If he makes Rarity cry… Or wake her up by now… I'll kill the bastard… She better not shed a single tear… Damn… I'm almost out… Haha… Night...
With the last of his energy, he silently lay there. Angel was already standing next to Spike. She placed her foot on Spike's side and rolled him over so he would face up, she simply stood there, watching the "would-be-dead" dragon. She lifted her sword and thrusted next to Spike. She looked down at Spike, the dragon trying to stay conscience. Saddened by disappointment, she squatted down next to him.
"Spike…" her voice trailed off, "Why did you leave? I… I… Spike..."
Her love for Spike slowly enveloped her body and mind. Thoughts of her and Spike together grew and grew until the thought of even touching him finally came over her mind. She got on all fours over Spike and looked at his cold, near-dead body. Slowly, she got down and almost kissed him before Spike placed his hand on her head. She was unaware, but soon realized what he could do. Quickly, she jumped away from him, taking her sword with her. When she landed on the ground, Angel braced for what Spike would bring to the fight, but he only laid there. She wondered what he was doing until he slowly stood up. The next moment, he vanished and reappeared next to her. Surprised, she swung at him, but Spike anticipated it. He grabbed her wrist, stopping her swing. He slowly reached for her other wrist, but she retaliated. With her free hand, she pulled back a fist and aimed for his head. Spike saw the action beforehand and stopped her midway. His grip was solid, and she couldn't escape. She looked at Spike to see he wasn't conscience. He was moving by will. With one last attempt at attack, she inhaled for fire, but what Spike did made her inhale even more in a gasp. He threw the sword behind him, pulled her close, and hugged her. She stood breathless, but soon struggled to free herself. She tried, but her attempts failed. Spike held her tightly and she couldn't break free. Soon, she gave up and simply stood there.
"Why?" Angel muttered, "Why are you doing this?"
Spike, still not conscience, simply whispered, "It's going to be okay… Don't cry…", and then went limp on her. She lost her footing, but soon caught it and Spike. He was finally out. She didn't know what to do. A tear slowly fell upon her soft, scaly cheek. The dragon she loved was almost out of life force. With difficulty, she carried Spike and slowly walked away. Before she made it halfway, she stopped and looked at Rarity, who is still out, same as Spike.
"Denta!" she called to the cage after she wiped her eyes, "We're leaving!"
"Aww~." a voice called sarcastically, "And I worked so hard for this one. No bloodshed?"
"None for you," she said as a matter-of-fact, "Now let's go. Get that sword, why don't you? He'll want it later."
The voice mumbled something about "lovebird" before the cage was slowly destroyed by magic. Rarity was levitated and set on a stallion. He was a unicorn with golden fur. His mane and tail were chestnut and worn in a casual style. He levitated the sword laying next to Angel and Spike and held it in his mouth. His red eyes shot a surprised look before spitting it out and gagging.
"Oh, yuck!" he cried, "Uhg. Has he cleaned that sword at all?! It tastes like smelly socks!"
"And I wonder how you would know that?" she remarked," Just hold it by the blunt side of the blade."
Sighing, the unicorn rolled his eyes and did as she told him to do. He held it in his mouth again and casted a speaker spell.
"Gee," the spell spoke from the unicorn's mind, "Forgot what I signed up for. Thanks for dissing me out back there, missy."
Walking away, she said, "I had to. You still annoy me even when I look at you."
"Ouch" he pretended, "That hurts, you know? I even felt a drop of emotion in my cold, tin heart."
"Well shut up and get moving," she yelled, "We're going to return them."
"Whoa, whoa, whoa there sister," the unicorn stumbled, "We're not supposed to do that! The plan was to get Spike, you fight him, you win, and you two go off to Celestia-knows-where. Why are you returning them?"
"Because…" Angel paused for a moment before continuing, "I'm not letting him out of my sight again."
"… Your funeral. If you haven't guessed already, we might not be welcomed in that town."
Her pace quickened. She had come up with a plan.
"I'll see to it that they do," her tone saying she means business before sprinting. The unicorn sighed, not liking what she was planning, but nonetheless ran with her to Ponyville where the end begins a new.
So, um, Spike came back, but he was beaten very badly. A dragoness carried him to my home and asked for my assistance. She explained that Twilight sent her here while Rarity was getting patched up, herself. Angel (just like my Angel *sqee*) set him down on my spare couch. He had some very bad bruises, scrapes, and cuts that looked painful. She pleaded for my help, and I got into action. I got all my medical tools and set them next to me. Ok. Mask? Check. Gloves. Check. Light? Check. Bandages? Check. Suture kit? Check. Ok, Fluttershy! You’re ready! Even if you have to… touch… his… bloody wounds…
Fluttershy shot a quick blush from the thought of touching Spike’s hard battle wounds. Angel noticed and raised her hand.
“Um, Fluttershy was it,” she asked, “You look red. Why don’t I do it while you get yourself together? You look like you’ll pass out.”
With a gentle smile as reassurance, she reached for the water-soaked towel and placed it on Spike's forehead. His breathing was slow and calm, despite his body being in such rough shape. They examined his body, but there was nothing they could do. His wounds were slowly, but surely, healing by themselves.
“I guess we’ll take turns watching over him,” Angel suggested, “You go first. I’m going back to check on my partner.”
Without any objections Fluttershy could muster, Angel got up and walked out of the cottage. She left a blushing Fluttershy and a sleeping Spike alone in the small house. All alone under the still, silent house.
Oh… my… It's just me, and Spike, alone. Under my house, nothing's going to happen Fluttershy. Nothing at all. It's just you and Spike. Here. All alone.
Thoughts quickly made their way to her face as she sat and thought of what she could do to the sleeping prince. Inhaling and exhaling, she decided to talk to him, despite the fact that he couldn't hear her.
"S-so, uh, Spike," she began, "It's a lovely day, isn't it? Rarity's safe, if you're wondering. She's being taken cared of as we, er, I speak. You were in pretty bad shape. What happened Spike? Well, it's not my business, so I'll stop asking; that is, unless you do want to tell. I don't mind, but you're sleeping, so I'll just stop now," Fluttershy took a momentary pause," ...You must have fought very hard to save Rarity, didn't you? You know, I'm jealous of her. She's lucky to have a strong, handsome dragon like you to love her. I mean, and I know this might sound weird, but before you left, I kinda liked you. It's not because you're a dragon, I swear!… Ok, maybe a little. I mean, you always helped my whenever you could. You kept me company sometimes when Rarity didn't need help, and I guess I slowly began to have feelings for my dragon friend. Every time you had to leave to go somewhere, I would smile and wave bye, but inside I felt as if I'd never see you again, and then you really did leave. None of us knew why, but I was devastated when you left. I never left this house until Twilight came and comforted me. I know she tried to help me, and I appreciate what she was trying to do. I really do, but sometimes, I would cry to sleep thinking that I'd never see you again, but I did. You came back! I was so happy I could scream. Luckily, no one heard it, not even you silly. I was so glad I could finally see the one I loved. I was happy. I really was. I get to see that dragon all grown up now, with a smile that gives me butterflies when I see it, but most of all... I can do this."
She got up and walked closer to him. Holding herself back, she hesitated. Finally, with all the courage she could muster, she hugged Spike's sleepy head. She caressed him gently, but firmly. A few seconds passed, and Fluttershy's tears began to fall along her hot cheeks. She cried in joyous relief. Her friend was safe, her dragon was alive, and her love was in her arms. Realizing the time, Fluttershy gently laid Spike's head back on the sofa's armrest. She rinsed the towel and rested it back on his forehead. Realizing that she had been crying, she rushed to the sink and washed her face. She was drying her still blushing face when somepony knocked on the door. Startled, Fluttershy walked to the door to see Rainbow Dash waiting there.
"Oh, Rainbow Dash," Fluttershy blinked, "what are you doing here?"
"I was told that we should switch?" Rainbow Dash said in a confused manner. Fluttershy looked at the time and realized that it was. Panicking, she explained what to do.
"Um, Ok." she said quickly, "I just replaced the towel on his head. Change the towel every twenty minutes. If he wakes up, make sure he eats, and make sure he's rested, ok?" = Rainbow Dash stood there, blinking and trying to process what she had to do. Before she could ask, Fluttershy was already gone. Standing there confused, she slowly walked into the cottage. She walked around until she found him in the living room, sleeping. His small, quiet breaths were the only sound audible next to Rainbow Dash's rapid heartbeats. The situation finally clicked and Rainbow Dash's face turned bright red. Her cyan color wasn't helping her hide it. With not much choice, she slowly walked and sat next to the dozed dragon. She sat quietly, letting only her fast heartbeat and Spike's cute little breathing break the silence.
Geez! Stupid Spike and your stupid, cute self. Why did you have to be so bucking good looking!? I mean, yeah, you were cool before, but now you're just over-the-top cool! Why, man?! You just had to go out on an adventure... without me... I wanted to be next to you Spike. I wanted to come with you and be by your side. I wanted to see you in action, kicking bad guys' rears and be all awesome and all... but you left with only a goodbye. Do you know how much tears I had to hold back when I watched you walk away? I made a rain cloud with my tears because of you! Of course, I had to wash it all out somewhere (Everfree Forest *cough cough*), but from that week on, if it wasn't for Twilight, I would have been dumping tears in that forest. But, hey, you came back, like, all mysterious-figure like. I didn't know who you were because your voice changed, you're a hay of a lot taller then before, and you're not the small little dragon I knew. Now you're tall, cool, and hot to beat... Well, not literally of course. I mean-It's just-GHAAA!!
Rainbow Dash quickly held Spike's head and made a quick kiss to the nose. Just as fast, she retracted back to her sitting position while her heart made loud thumps that echoed in the cottage. She looked around to make sure no one was there. The coast was clear, but her heart continued to beat at a high volume. To distract herself, she grabbed the towel, re-soaked it, drained it, and set it back atop his forehead. After she do so, a knock was heard from the front door. Startled, Rainbow Dash(ed) to the front door to find Pinkie Pie.
"H-hey Pinkie," Rainbow Dash greeted, "How's it going?"
"Oh, it's going," she replied, "Just here to switch with you."
"O-oh," Rainbow fumbled, "Is it that time already?"
She looked around to find a clock and realized the time had passed faster then she anticipated. Looking back at Pinkie, Rainbow Dash gave the following instructions quickly, "Alright. I've already changed the towel on his head. If it heats up, cool it again. If he gets up make sure he eats, but don't make him move. Why? I don't know. Fluttershy told me. Now got to fly. See ya!"
Rainbow Dash zoomed out of the cottage, leaving Pinkie Pie sitting with her notepad and pencil. After she finished jolting down everything, she looked up to find no cyan pegasus. After a shrug, she skipped into the cottage with a happy smile, closing the door with a gentle thud.
Aww. Look at him sleeping there, all calm and defenseless. He's just so adorable next to Gummy, but he's still number one. Sorry, Spike. He just is. Just letting you know that right now. You're still cute though. Just let Auntie Pinkie take care of you.
Forgot about me?
No, of course not. I remember that you're here because Ventan had to Pinkamena.
Right. Making you stop blabbering for days. Though I will say because of your Celestia-damn fetish, I now think he's hot.
Really? I'm still saying he's cute, though the scars make him even cuter to boot!
You mean "to rut"?
Pinkamena! That's a sexual no-no!
And I can take over and make that head rise.
Pinkamena Diane Pie!! This is rated "E"! Shame on you for almost making this rated "T".
I think the last few lines already made it "T".
Shh. The readers won't know.
The readers read and looked.
No they didn't.
They probably did at this point. Where were we? I've lost track, thanks to you.
It was you who almost made this "T", Ms. No-No Pants.
Hey, I'm not even wearing pants. I'm not even a physical being.
Well keep that lady-boner of your's off of my Spikey, and we'll call it even.
Your Spikey? Excuse me, but I'll have you know that it's everyone's Spike until there's a victor. Besides, you went as far as to have a plush-
Shh!! Don't tell the readers that! They don't need to know!
Or what about the time when Twilight came over, you're "little heat" was at it's peak, and you-
Whoa, whoa there Missy. Now, that does NOT need to be made public. We agreed that what happened there stays in there.
Fine. Though, now that I think about it, when Spike came back you had a small party to yourself because you could finally-
One more word, and I'll show you where the front door to Neverland is!
Where Peter Pony is? Or will I be able to meet Sora from Cutie Mark Island?
Never mind.
Never mind? Is that a world I need to know?
You're doing this on purpose, aren't you?
It's Ventan that's typing. By now, some readers are probably face palming themselves. I mean, come on girl. Make better stuff than this!
She's doing okay. At least she doesn't go as far as Family Colt. That's just weird.
Didn't the colt who voiced "Peter Griffin" also voice that teddy bear named "Ted" in that one movie?… Yep. We went as far. Can we go back to watching this guy sleeping? Seriously, his mouth is open and anypony could go and bucking kiss him.
Well… it's tempting. That's for sure… I mean, look at it. His soft lips having some distance between them, his soft, moist breath, his defenselessness-
Pinkie stopped herself and realized her lips had made contact with his forehead. She zoomed back to the wall behind her, her back hitting the wall as she gasped in relief that whatever event she might have triggered if Spike had woken up didn't happen. Several seconds passed and nothing happened. Spike began moving, mumbling before readjusting himself. Pinkie held her breath, fearing Spike waking up. Luckily, he slowly and silently drifted back to sleep. Pinkie sighed in relief as she got on all fours.
Pinkie.
Yeah?
That. Was. Short.
How long did I kiss him!?
Maybe a second or two? I lost track once I realized you'd kissed his bloody wound.
*smack* It tastes like *smack* …
...Are you serious?
I know. It's odd, yet delicious. Sugary and metallic.
Great. Now just add "Cupcakes" to this, and we'll have ourselves a batch of Spike-cakes just for us.
Now, now Pinkamena. We will not do such gruesome things to Spikey. We'll just marry him and every night we'll make a small cut and lick it as our midnight snack.
How did you go from Pinkie Pie, The Party Thrower, to this bloodthirsty pony?
Oh, silly. I'm only a fun version of Ventan's imagination. We should all know this by now, silly pants.
Well, if anything, I'm the one who's suppose to be all, "Lick his tasty blood," and what not.
Oh, fine. Here. You take Blood Fetish, and I'll take Gateway.
Fair trade. Wait. Gateway? Now I can go in and out when I want? Oh boy, Ventan's planning something… Can I take over?
Don't do anything, buster!
Fine. I won't.
Pinkie slowly relaxed. Her curly, party mane dropped to a straight, silky mane. Her tone became slightly darker, and her eyes went from Pinkie's regular, light blue to a hazy, sky blue. Pimkamena moved around and stretched to get used to her new body.
Damn this feels so~ weird~! First time ever moving, touching feels like electricity, and I feel a slight… Pinkie?
Yes, Pinkamena?
You've been… holding it in,… haven't you…?
Oh, um, woopsie! I, uh, was thinking about-
Uh huh. I believe you, Pinkie.
Really?
No. Now if you will excuse this mare, she needs to do some "Cleaning."
We can't!! The story's rated "E"! We can't have a narration telling what you'll do!!
Then just do a quick time jump. Ventan, time skip please.
*Fast forward*
There. The mess has been cleaned. Apologize to the readers, Baka Pinkie.
Sorry readers. It won't happen again.
Now then-
Suddenly, there was a bold knocking sound. Startled, Pinkimena looked around for the source. Some time passed and the knocking came again, followed by "Pinkie! You in there?" Still trying to get use to the body, she awkwardly walked to the source of the sound that led to the front door. She slowly opened the door to find Applejack standing outside. The silence was thick in the air as Applejack stared at Pinkamena, who was suppose to be Pinkie Pie, and Pinkamina returned the stare with a questioning look.
"Pinkie… Are you tryin' to make a new mane-do?" Applejack finally asked.
Blinking for a moment, she responded with a, "Yes?"
Before Applejack could respond, Pinkie Pie took over, chucked her notepad at Applejack, blinding her for a moment so she could make a run for it. Applejack stood with the notepad, stunned and confused as to what had just occurred. She blinked a couple of times before focusing on where Pinkie had been, but in her place was a dotted, blinking outline of her. The notepad was next to her hoof, so she reluctantly picked it up and read the instructions as she walked into the sleeping dragon's lair.
Alright, Cowgirl. Let's see, what in tarnation did that crazy party mare throw at cha? "To do list: Change the towel on his head every ten minutes, or so. If it heats up, cool it again and set it back on his head." Duh. Well, even I can understand that much. What's next? "If he gets up, make sure he eats, but don't make him move." What in the hay is with that understanding? Feed him, but don't make him move? What? Am I suppose to hoof feed him or something? Ok, ok. What's next? Can't get worse now... can it? "To do list part two." There's a part two? Pinkie. I hope I'm not going to regret this. Ahem. "Dress up in a maid-What?! Why in Granny Smith's apple pie do you have a maid suit!? That's just down right... well, I mean... I wouldn't mind wearing-Snap out of it girl! Just read the list, know what to do, and get it over with! Now then. The next one said to call him master?! Then do what!? I can't do that! Look. I'm just going to go in, sit down, and look after Spike. I'd imagine he's all beaten and what not. Poor feller. I should go check up on him, then.
She walked into the house and closed the door behind her. Spike was still on the couch asleep, as he had been throughout the day. The earth pony slowly walked toward the sleeping dragon and stood next to him. Oddly, working and taking care of Rarity had taken its toll on her body. Her legs were starting to feel fatigue from all of the back and forth between the fields and Rarity.
Agh! Dang nabit legs! I finally got some rest and you're over here, tired like Granny Smith on napping time. I will rest, and you'll like it. Question is, where should I rest. The floor might be nice, but you fellers might get numb after a while. I don't see any other option except… Spike's… warm… firm… body-No! Can't think that! Gosh darn it Pinkie! Your little fantasies are mushing up my head! Now thanks to that, I… can't look… away from… his tough body… Well, it's just resting. How bad can it be… right?
She gently climbed onto Spike and laid on his warm, scaly body. She rested her head on his chest as she laid down on her sides and her legs stretched out. His gentle heartbeat could be heard through her ear as she blushed, fusing her orange and her crisp red blush.
Great, now I'm hotter than fresh baked apple pie. Gosh darn it, Spike! Why did you leave Ponyville? Thanks to you, everyday seemed like the same: I woke up, I ate, I worked, I ate lunch, I worked till sundown, I showered longer than anyone in the house, I went to bed, I slept, and it repeated, Spike. I was sick of it. Everyday, I did and felt the same thing every time I got up. I was numb all over, then Twilight cheered me up. She convinced me that you were alive and you would come back one day. I believed her because she was so sure… but sometimes, I'd look out into the night sky at Luna's moon… and I'd think about all the times we'd have fun and play and I could see your happy face. You know, if I could see that smile again… I might not be able to resist anymore… I just might kiss you right then and there, you know that? I mean… I… I...
She buried her face to his chest and a tear fell from her eyes and onto his chest. Yearning to satisfy her aching heart, she slowly recoiled her legs and settled them between her beating heart and his. The farmer lifted her head and locked her eyes on Spike's closed eyelids. The thought of him only made her heart beat nerve-wrackingly faster. She slowly closed her eyes and advanced herself toward him. Soon, she could feel his soft breath brushing against her lips. Her lips were slowly edging closer until she was only a couple of centimeters away before she was lifted up by her shoulders. Spike sat up and held her up in a sitting position on his lap. His head was faced down, but slowly rose to meet her green eyes as she met his. Then, with a quick pull, he held Applejack and locked his arms. Applejack's response was sitting there, shocked, as Spike continued to hold her. After some time, Applejack became weary as to what Spike was planning. She tapped his shoulder, but he gave no response. Wondering if he went back to sleep, she slowly leaned forward while holding him in case he fell over. Luckily he didn't, but Applejack's guess was confirmed. He dozed off again. Her mind was confused, but her heart said otherwise. She bent down and kissed him on his cheek before getting off of him. Her legs were still sore, so she decided to rest on the floor. Soon, her body became fatigued, and shortly after she, herself, drifted into a sweet, sweet slumber.
Hey!… early!… some… you know …hey… are you… common… get up Spi-… island… he's back… fight… he's a… so… happened? When will you kill her?
Spike shot up from his vague dream. Cold sweat began to form throughout his body. He was shaking in horror as the dream slowly and surely revealed itself.
Damn… Not again… Damn it all…
Suddenly, Applejack's gentle snore snapped Spike back together. He looked down at the snoring pony and smiled. The sound of peaceful sleeping slowly washed his dream away until it became what it only was: a dream. With ever so gentle movements, he lifted her up and set her on the couch while he slowly and quietly got off. Then, he silently creeped to the door and attempted to leave the house. With every pace his steps creaked loudly, his ear's senses sharpened, and Applejack would have a small sleep-talk before going back to sleep. Sighing in relief, he continued to the door of freedom. Only inches away, he heard Applejack mumble something. He couldn't make out of what she said, but he was certain he heard his name. Not going to take the chance, he reached for the door and stepped out into Celestia's luminous light. Once outside, his scales tingled at the gentle wind that blew over the horizon. He took a deep breath of the cool air. His body felt stiff after sleeping for so long a time. He looked down at his palm while contracting and retracting it. The memories of the black fire slowly filled his mind to a point of anger. Simply remembering the daunting flame made him hate it even more, even if it was just his past self. He clapped his cheeks for the shock he needed to snap out of his thoughts. He suddenly realized that his arms, if not his whole body, was stiff. He did a few stretches before he decided to try some exercises with his newly obtained weapon.
But first… Where's Angel? I need to talk to her. She should be here. I can still smell a hint of her. So where are you, Little Angel?
He closed his eyes and relaxed. All of his senses sharpened; From his nose that could detect every fragrance within a five kilometer radius, to his scales that could feel every grain of sand and leaves that blew by and his ears that could detect every conversation within the radius. He sensed around until he heard a familiar voice. He followed the voice, and soon he could hear multiple familiar voices. Before long, the voices all lead to the library.
Joy to Equestria, the mares are there. It's time to make my scare!
He slowly bent down to a launching position and vaulted upward. With one vault, he launched himself up to the skies and beyond the clouds. From there, he could see the treehouse and the whole village. With his signature smirk on his face, he lit his palm with his fire and formed a gentle propulsion that kept him levitating in the air. Then, one second he stopped the fire and slowly descended to the ground; the next, he shot bursts of fire that accelerated his fall. He quickly pulled out the scythe, Blissful Death.
He~llo sex~y. Gonna take you out for a joy ride.
He started swinging the scythe opposite to the treehouse. Every swing pushed him closer and closer to the library, but it wasn't enough. He began to "dance" with the Death, sending himself faster and even closer to his destination. At that point, he was falling toward the tree house.
Alright, Lady Death, time for you to go back to sleep.
The scythe reformed itself to the small handle that Spike slid back into his gauntlet. In one grand finale, he shot himself upward as if he had done a double hop. The treehouse was within reach, and his smirk grew slightly more cunning. He crashed through the roof and into his old home, sending dust and debris in the air and causing the mares and Angel to close their eyes and cough. When the debris slowly cleared, they looked around in shock as to who would commit such an act. Finally, it cleared, and all of the girls' attention focused on the purple dragon that was suddenly laying on the couch, nonchalantly reading a book as if nothing happened. They looked at the supposed hole in the ceiling, but there wasn't any. They looked back at him, still casually reading and turning a page from a book. Irritated, Angel grabbed Spike's sword that was next to her and swung down at the stupid dragon. Without even looking or flinching, he lifted the book up and closed it with one hand, stoping the swing midway. The dragoness tried to pull the blade away, but it was stuck due to Spike's grip around the book and sword.
"So Angel," Spike asked in a carefree maner, "Is that any way you introduce a guest, such as myself? For shame, for shame, little girl."
"Oh Spike, I would never do such a thing. It's just that you just suddenly came barging in and sat on the couch in a very rude way," Angel replied calmly and sweetly while still trying to pull out the sword.
"Hey girls, can I borrow Angel for a little while? We need to have a little dragon talk," Spike yawned.
The mares just stood there, not daring to utter a sound. Taking that as a yes, Spike lifted his finger and drew an imaginary circle. At the same time, a small lightning drawing formed on the ground, following Spike's little finger movements. Soon, the circle became the teleportation spell and, in a bright flash, the duo disappeared along with the sword, the book, and the couch. What was left behind, however, was a note. Twilight levitated it towards her and read: "By the way, I'm checking out a book. Write my name, date, and due date on the records. The book's called 'Dragon Tales'." She lowered her ears and made an "Are you serious" face.
***
The duo were teleported near the edge of a cliff, along with the items. Angel blinked twice before letting go of the sword and jumped backward in caution. Spike, on the other hand, simply lowered the book and grabbed the sword. He got up and faced Angel with his ever so familiar grin. Instead of fighting, though, he thrusted the sword to the ground, sat down, legs crossed, book on one hand while the other was resting on the couch's backrest, and continued to read where he left of. Seconds passed; Minutes passed. An hour finally passed, and Angel sat down tiredly and looked over the horizon. Spike looked at Angel's way with an eyebrow raised. Finally finishing the book, he closed it with a loud "thud" and watched over the horizon with Angel.
"So," he called, finally getting her attention, "It's been a while, you ass."
"Ha." Angel replied, "Coming from the dick who got his scales handed to him by a dragoness."
"Hey! It's rude to hit a lady. I have manners."
"Right~. Like you can kick my hot flank."
"Bitch, wanna' go?"
"Bring it-"
Before she could finish, Spike summoned a ring of green fire that surrounded her neck. The edges of the rings were only inches away from her neck, and being a dragon, she shouldn't feel the heat from any fire, but the heat from the flames were very real to her. A sweat dripped from her chin, and before it even touched the ground it evaporated from the immense heat. Angel turned to Spike while he merely sat and continued to stare at the view. He raised his hand and, with a snap, the flames formed blades inside the ring. The tips were centimeters away from her neck. The heat from the flames quickly rose and Angel was only a flinch away from being burnt, if not executed.
"You were saying?" he called in a bored tone.
"Alright, alright," Angel plead, "I get it."
With a disappointed sigh, he shaped his fingers. Angel shut her eyes, fearing that she might've breathed her last breath. Instead, the fire blew itself out. With her eyes still shut, she slowly opened them. The fire wasn't there. The heat vanished.
"Now that we've establish that," Spike said, "I'd like for us to still have that chat."
"W-what about?" Angel fumbled.
A leaf brushed Angel's cheek and flew towards Spike. He gently caught the leaf effortlessly, and his fingers began to play with it. His emerald eyes showed signs of peace, like he wouldn't even hurt a fly. As he continued to fiddle with the leaf, he asked in a relieved tone, "Looks like you extinguished that fire in you?"
Her eyes were fixed on the view as she tried to forget her stupidity for accepting the greedy flame. It changed her drastically, and she was afraid of accepting it again. Earlier, before Angel and Denta exited the cave, she dug into herself, quite literally, and forced the dark fire out of her body and threw it back into the pit. She sat back and replied with a, "Yeah."
Spike finished fiddling with the leaf. The leaf wasn't a leaf anymore, but a bird figurine. He spread his palm out and let the winds carried it somewhere. He proceeded to pick up the book he was reading and gestured it to Angel. She looked at it skeptically, but realize what he was saying. She got up and walked to the couch, sat next to him, and jokingly yanked the book away from him, even though he let go of the book. She read the title cover and, as if on cue, a tear was shed down her cheeks. Her vision was blurry, but she saw and could make out what the title was. Meanwhile, Spike slouched on the couch with a smile, his eyes closed, and his hands resting on his belly while his fingers laced with each other. He could remember a time when Angel was free for the first time.
*Flashback*
Two years ago, Angel was crying under a tree. It was raining at night, and the tree was the only thing keeping her mostly dry. The sounds of pitter patter were the only sounds made until-
"-gel!"
She looked up, hearing something from a distance. She tried to concentrate, but the sad rain made it harder to even form a thought. "Angel!" came the cry again. This time she knew that she heard it, and the best part: It was Spike's voice. She called out, "Spike!" to see if there would be a response. Soon, a bush next to her rustled, and before long, Spike came out. He was covered in scratches, his sword had some dirt and grime on it, and from his breathing she could tell that he was tired. He slowly walked towards Angel and sat next to her. In one fluid motion, he reach out for her head and settled it on his shoulder. Angel tried to fight more tears, but soon all of her tears began to shed like a flowing stream. The rain covered up the tears, but Spike knew she was crying, and he held her tighter for it. Time passed by, and Angel finally calmed down. Both of them were silent until Spike said, "So, we failed again." Angel only nodded in reply.
Spike scratched the back of his head in irritation and groaned. "I knew it was a bad idea, you idiot!"
Angel replied by keeping silent.
"But did you listen?" he continued, but then paused because they both knew the answer to that. He took his sword out and scribbled on the soaked dirt. Angel looked over and read, "Dragon Tales."
"This book," he said, "It had a nice story, one you might like."
Angel finally mustered enough courage to ask, "What is it about?"
"Well," he began, "It begins with two dragons. Both of them were the best of friends. Nothing could ever separate them, not even their families. One day, they found the rumored scale that was said to grant wishes. The boy dragon wished for glory while the girl dragon wished for money. Of course, the wishes were granted. The boy had glory and fame, all across Equestria, while the girl dragon was the richest dragon of all the Equestrian nation. Despite having their wishes granted, they were still inseparable. One day, the boy dragon suddenly came over with a disease. The female dragon didn't want her friend to die, so she hired the best doctors of all Equestria to cure him. The fame of the boy dragon brought many supporters to his hospital. Though, despite all of their efforts, the boy finally died. Now, for once, the two were finally separated: one on the world of the living while the other was in the world of the dead."
Angel had been quiet for some time. She was confused as to how she would like that story. Spike, seeing her confusion, got up and ran into the rain. He turned to face Angel, who stood up, and he raised his sword.
"I said this because," he called before being interrupted by claps of thunder and flashes of lightning, "I'm not going to be greedy. I'm not going to see you cry again! I swear on this sword that when I see you again, I will not be greedy!" A bolt of lightning shot down to his sword and onto Spike. He could feel all of his nerves bursting and numbing, but he held on. After the flash of lightning, Angel could see Spike was still standing, but he was unconscious. Angel began to worry and ran towards the burnt dragon. He began to tip slowly, but Angel caught him on time. His sword fell, but not his body. Angel gently rested Spike's head on her lap as she kneeled. Despite his darkened color, she could see his gentle smile illuminating the dark night. Suddenly loving the dragon, she slowly bent down until their lips touched. His taste of emerald, mixed with her ruby, made a kiss she'd never forget. Realizing that she had kissed him, she shot up to see Spike chuckling.
"Hey, Angel?" he asked.
"Yeah?"
"I'm glad you're safe."
*Back to reality*
Spike could hear Angel's cry slowly quieting down. He slowly sat up and leaned forward; his elbows were rested on his thighs. He looked at her for the first time that day. Her red, shining scales glowed under Celestia's sun, her soft, ruby eyes blended in with her scales, and her lips that he kissed. Spike chuckled and continued to look over the horizon. Angel, seeing the opportunity, rested her head on his shoulder. Realizing what she was doing, he sat up straight and rested his back on the back of the couch. He slowly raised his hand and held Angel's head. He rubbed a few times, patted along, and would sometimes just rest his hand on her head. After a long silence, he murmured, "I promised, didn't I?"
Angel only replied with a nod.
He made a "Hmph" sound and continued to pat and rub her head. As he sat with Angel, the dream's daunting echo began to ring in his head: "When will you kill her?"
