> The Intrepid Few > by The Fields of Ice > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter One: A Perfectly Happy Lie > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Intrepid Few  Chapter One: A Perfectly Happy Lie   Year: 2125     The first thing I notice as I awake, before my eyes even have time to open, the scent of freshly picked lilac; her favorite perfume. I reach out my arms as sensation takes hold, pulling her in close. My hands run through her soft fur. Finally, I open my eyes, seeing hers looking back into mine. My scaly tail wraps around her legs, earning a little sleepy smile.    "Good morning."  She buried her face into my chest, her messy lavender hair presses against my snout. I lean in with a smile, planting a kiss atop her head.   "Good morning to you too~" she replies.   "Just three more days..."   She rears up her head, her hoof rubbing at her sleepy eyes, before wrapping her hooves around me. "Just three more days, and I can finally say you've been mine for a century..."  "Can you believe it? Honestly, how many ponies do you know who can stick it out this long... and still look at each other the way we did when we were kids..."   She gave me a light peck on my lips and giggled. "Not enough, I'd say." And with that, she sat up, running her hoof along my hand before slipping out from under the sheets.   I reach out for her, taking her by the hoof as I playfully pull her back into my arms. "Just where do you think you're going? Hmm?" I started kissing her up and down her neck, eliciting a light giggle.   "Come on now, Spike. You and me both know you're going to be late if we do this now~"   I glance over her shoulder to the clock on the nightstand. "Oh nonsense, we have a good five minutes left before my alarm goes off." I said as I slowly ran the back of my hand up her arm.   She leaned into me with that. "Five minutes always has a way of turning into half an hour, you know?"  I smiled as she turned to face me. Those bright emerald eyes looking into mine as she rested her forehead against mine. Shaking her head she leaned in to kiss me once more. "God, I love you."  With a smirk I pressed my lips to hers, leaning in deep this time. I wrap her tight in my arms, taking in her every sensation. Her scent, her warmth, her touch, her taste. Slowly we both pull back, each other's hot breath on our snouts.   She rested a hoof against my chest, and sighed as she looked up at me. "And I'm doing this because I love you too." She then slid back and stepped out of bed. "Come on now, it's the day you've been waiting for after all. Six months working at that observatory, charting all those nights. You must be excited to finally see it all come together."  I nod to her with a smile. "I hope you know I'm just putting this on pause for later..."  She gave me a wink as she trotted away. "I'd expect nothing less."   Just as she stepped through the doorway, that familiar hated beeping started. "Silence alarm."  ----------    I stepped through the doors to the Royal Canterlot Observatory, and am immediately greeted by my all too eager collogue, Dawn. Her bright red mane bouncing with her step as she rushed over to me, just beaming with excitement. "It's finally ready! I just finished the download from the Horizons satellite!"   I could never help but find her youthful vigor somewhat adorable at times. After all she only got her Ph.D. in astronomy no more than six months ago. Every discovery, every new planet and star is like Hearths Warming Eve for her.   "Alright, alright. Let's see what we got."  Following her into a large dimly lit room, I closed the door behind us. The walls were jet black with small diodes spaced out in a grid, separated by a foot each.   With a grin, Dawn looked up at me. "Well, go ahead."  I nodded back at her with a smile, and cleared my throat. "Computer, run Horizons Main"   With that, what little light that remained died down, before bursting back with a vibrant night sky. The warm glow of a holographic sun bathed the room in light. I stepped closer to the star, seeing Earth and the other eight planets orbiting it, with each planet looking as if you could reach out and touch it.   "Alright then. Computer, show the nearest candidate."   The room then suddenly shifted, quickly moving away from our sun to Proxima Centauri, our nearest star, just four point two five light years away. Orbiting it were three small planets, on of which was slightly larger than Earth, and directly in the middle of the habitable zone. I reached out to the small rocky planet, seeing something that honestly gave me chills. It's atmosphere was blue, and it's surface was tinged with browns, blues, and... purple. The image wasn't the clearest, but there was no mistaking, that was exactly what we expected plant life to look like on a red dwarf world.   Dawn's face was pale white as she stared at the small world. "Oh my god. Th-There's life. There's really life! A-A-And it's our nearest neighbor!"   I raised at hand to her. "Wait, wait, wait. L-Let's not get too excited just yet." I reached out a hand to this world, and tapped on it's atmosphere. I just wanted to be sure Horizons hadn't found anything harmful in the air.   "1.2 Atmospheres of Pressure  69% Nitrogen  30% Oxygen  1% Water Vapor"   I couldn't contain it anymore, I let out a laugh of excitement. "It's not just breathable, Dawn; it's more breathable than here on Earth!" I couldn't resist anymore, I pulled the little pony in for a hug without a second thought. Giggling like a child, I took a step back, and noticed a little crimson on her cyan cheeks. I'll admit, I blushed a little from embarrassment at just how unprofessional that was. I was essentially her boss after all.   Clearing my throat, I looked back to the star map. "Computer, show candidate two."   Again the star map rushed over to another nearby star. This time however, it was a bit further out. Sigma Draconis, my favorite. Half because of it's name, and half because I was the one who discovered the planets I was looking at. Two small rocky worlds smack dab in the middle of the habitable zone. Each one just slightly larger than Mars. The pair continuingly orbiting each other in a never ending dance. And the best part, they were both green and blue.   It's an almost indescribable feeling to look at something you've discovered, and realize it very well may have been the discovery of the century. Not one, but two worlds to call home. The overwhelming rush of pride you get, I could only think to equate to seeing your child for the first time.  Reaching out, I tapped the atmospheres of both worlds. Ironically, holding my breath as I did so.   "0.9 Atmospheres of Pressure  75% Nitrogen  24% Oxygen  1% Water Vapor"  Both read the same. I let out a light chuckle as I read the data. They were my twins.   There I stood looking at the projection, when the simulation suddenly ended. The lights returned to as they were before we had entered. Confused, I looked around, thinking something must be wrong. Just then, the trembling voice of the observatory's phone operator came over the speaker.   "E-Excuse my interruption, Mr. Spike, but Princess Celestia is currently holding."  I raised my brow in surprise. It had been sometime since I had heard from her. "Thank you," I replied, before looking to Dawn. "Could you give us a minute?" She nodded and hurried out of the projector room.   Looking back to the center of the room, I was met with the ever regal princess. I smiled to her. "It's been quite some time. To what do I owe the pleasure."  She returned the smile, nodding. "It most certainly has been awhile, hasn't it? I wanted to ask you to come see me. There's something I need to ask of you."  I tilted my head slightly. "Oh? Why not ask me now?"  "It would very much appreciated if I could speak to you in person."  I nodded. "Of course."  ----------    Even with my mind racing with the possibility of life on over a dozen worlds, walking up these marble steps still brought me back. A lot has changed since I played here as a child, but some things can just never be covered up with the ever changing world we live in. Each magnificent spire, reaching up higher and higher than the last until you lay your eyes upon the central balcony. Every last bit of elegantly crafted railing, adorned in gold.   As I neared the entrance, two Royal Guardsmen laid their staff across the doorway, blocking me. "Halt!" They shouted.   I took a step back, confused. "I'm here to meet with Princess Celestia. Have you not been informed?"   "A dragon here to meet the Princess of Equestria, I very much doubt that," scoffed one of the guards.   I sighed, crossing my arms. "I'm Spike. Elements of Harmony, Crystal Empire? Any of this ring a bell?"  "We all know of the Elements of Harmony, but the name 'Spike' holds no meaning to us."  I rolled my eyes. 'Really? Wow, probably should have milked the whole fame thing a lot longer.'    "Well, look could you at least deliver her the message that I'm here?"  "Why on Earth would we do that for a complete stranger? For all we know you're just some lunatic."   "Yeah, I know how you may see it, but I'm telling the truth. If someone could just-"  "Spike, it's so good to see you."  I didn't even have to turn around to know it was her. The pale expressions on the guards' faces said it all. I couldn't help but give them a little 'I told you so' smirk.   Turning to face the princess, I did a quick bow. "Your majesty."   She let out a small giggle. "Oh come now, there's no need for that." Stepping forward, she wrapped a hoof around me. "It's so good to see you."  I returned the embrace. "You as well princess. The years have been kind to you."  "I would hope so," she said with a tinge of sarcasm. "Guards, please open the doors for our guest."  The duo almost tripped over themselves as they sprang into action. "Yes, mam!" With that the great stained wood doors swung open.   As they closed behind us, she looked to me and said "I hope those guards didn't hold you up too much. I didn't expect you here so soon."  I laughed a little. "Oh no worries... So what is it you needed to speak to me about?"  She paused a moment, as though she was carefully thinking out her words. "As you know, when we discovered the first world in the habitable zone, so close to us, we started work on a way to get there. It was a decade long global space race to see who could build the first ship capable of bridging the void. Well, we're almost done building, and it looks like we're going to be the winners... But after this morning... Finding a dozen more worlds with breathable air... We're looking into getting a crew as fast as possible, so we can start the mission."   I was a little taken aback to say the least. I knew we were nearing completion, but I had no idea we were so close. "So, why bring me in on this? I'm just an astronomer, princess."   "You're an astronomer with more knowledge of these planets than anyone else. You're the reason we even found some of them. I'd trust you to know best on exactly how to approach whatever you may find out there... So I'd like you to consider joining-"  "I'll do it!" I exclaimed, before quickly biting my tongue. "Sorry, princess."  She nodded with a smile. "Of course... There is just one thing you should know..."  I leaned in curious. "What is it?"  "These vessels are going to be traveling at a very high rate of speed. Very close to the speed of light. Even a grain of sand could obliterate the most heavily reinforced shield at those speeds... And so it's important, that we have somepony powerful enough who can use their magic to shield the ship... An alicorn..."   "You don't mean-"  With a weary expression, she nodded.   "No. No I'm sorry princess, after what happened I can't be around her. I-I just can't."  "Spike, I know you and Twilight have had a rough relationship after Sweetie Belle, but please, think about what I'm offering you. This is the chance of a lifetime, and you know it."  "Princess, what happened was just-" I grit my teeth, trying to hold down my voice. "I'm sorry. You're going to need to find another astronomer."   Celestia let out a sigh. "I was afraid you'd say that... Spike, just please think about it, and if you change your mind, I'll be here."  ----------   Gravel crunches beneath my feet as I walk down the narrow path. With the setting sun, the cool of the night air starts to wash up from the valleys. I look out at the hills, to the sky beyond, awash with reds, yellows, oranges, and... purple.   I step off the path onto the grassy field. I really should come here more often, but it's one of those things you just don't want to come to grips with, when you're perfectly happy pretending everything is fine.   With the lead in my boots growing heavier and heavier the closer I get, I almost want to stop in my tracks; turn around and never come back. She's not gone, she's still here. I keep telling myself that, but a copy is and always will be just that; a copy.   With one last step, I'm here. I drop down to my knees, staring at the white stone before me.   "Sweetie Belle  Caring friend, loyal student, and loving wife.  2004-2123"  A copy, is just a copy. > Chapter Two: Always > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Intrepid Few Chapter Two: Always Do I know my hatred is irrational? Of course I do. It's not something you can logically control. It's an acquired taste. A symbol of a memory you can't, or shouldn't forget, no matter how much you wish you could.   I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought about Twilight some nights as I tried to fall asleep. I've even thought about how close we used to be, but before I could let myself fall back, and wish for those days to return, I remember Sweetie Belle, and it starts all over. Is it something I'm proud of? No, but then again, since when did hate become a thing of reason?   Sitting at the dining table in our kitchen where I'd normally be enjoying a cup of coffee, I only look down at the mahogany slab before me. A lot of things weigh on my mind. A lot of things I could find myself regretting, or loathing.   I let out a disgruntled sigh as I rub at my eyes. Sleep had eluded me the prior night, with the dark circles outlining my eyes as proof. "Damnit."  I hear the light hoof steps of Sweetie Belle coming up from behind me. Slowly she wraps her hooves around me, draping them over my shoulder. I lean into her neck as she pulls me in. "So, you mind telling me why you were up tossing and turning all night?"  I bit my tongue, not entirely sure if I should tell her. "I don't know. Just wasn't feeling well."  She shook her head. "You see, the key word was 'why'… So, why weren't you feeling well, Spike."   I slid out from under her embrace, and stood up, making my way over to the sink where I poured myself a glass of water. Taking a few swallows, I finished it. "Equestria is almost done building the ship. They're beginning to gather a crew to man it... Celestia asked me to be in that crew."  Sweetie Belle's eyes went wide. "Oh? Well, how soon are you going to leave?"  I waved her off. "No, it's not... I told her no."  A little shocked, she took a step forward. "And why would you ever do that? Spike, this is the chance of a lifetime. Ponies would kill to be where you are."  I nodded. "Yes. Yes. I know that... It's just... I just- I can't do it."   "Spike, what is it you're not telling me?"  My mouth hung open, but no words left my lips. I just couldn't bring myself to tell her. I knew what she thought of Twilight, and knew what she'd think of me.   The pause in our conversation was suddenly interrupted by the chime of a doorbell. Looking to the clock, I found it odd for someone to be dropping by this early. And so, I made my way over to the door. Without thinking to check who it was, I swung it open. Whether it be just who I am, or the dragon blood running through my veins I'll never know, but what I did know was that rage had returned.   "What are you doing here?"  Twilight turned away, feeling my words like a knife to her throat. "Spike," she said quietly, her voice sounding defeated before she could even begin. "I just... I needed to speak with you."   I stepped forward, closing the door behind me. "You need to leave. Now."  She took a step back. "I know you'd love nothing more than to never see me again, but please just hear me out... I know Celestia asked you to join the crew."  "And? What does that have anything to do with you?"  "Spike, just please... It's just, I know how hard you've been working. I've even read the books you've written about these planets. No one knows more about exoplanets than the drake whose been studying them for decades."  I shook my head as I crossed my arms. "It's not the mission I have a problem with; it's who I'd have to deal with when I'm up there."   Twilight nodded. "I-I just don't want you to regret this..."  "I regret a lot of things Twi, but spending as much time away from you as I can sure isn't one of them."  She must have found some bravery just then, or maybe she just felt defeated enough to give in, but Twilight finally looked me in the eye. It felt wrong to keep going after her like this. She was looking to me like a wounded animal would, as it accepts what's next.   "It wasn't Princess Celestia who asked for you to be on the ship, Spike. I-I... I can't do this anymore. You were my best friend, and I hate that this is what we've become! I miss you more than you can imagine!" Her voice cracked as her tears finally broke through. "I want my friend back."  I paused. "I just want to know why... Why you just stood there."  "Spike..."  I clinched my fists and turned away. "Just answer the question."  "I-I couldn't do anything. We're not supposed to; not like that."  "So instead, you decided to just watch her die on the table with me! I begged you over and over, and you just stood there!" I didn't realize just how loud I was getting as I spoke.   "Do you think it was easy!? She was my student, she was like my daughter! How do you think I felt, knowing I wasn't allowed to intervene!?"   "Don't you even dare try to compare yourself to what I went through!"   Her horn glowed with magic, as she dug her hooves in. "Spike I loved her just as I did you, so you need to back off."  I crossed my arms. "What? Are you going to attack me? No matter how I may feel about you, I'd never lay a hand on you... Just shows how little you really know about me."   She lowered her guard, letting the glow leave her horn, looking a little ashamed of her defensive stance. "I'm sorry. I didn't have a choice. I taught her everything I could, but she couldn't become an alicorn. I'm only supposed to guide, not force. And believe me, I am sorry things aren't different."  I veered my eyes from her gaze. "Y-You should leave."  "I'm sorry."  I opened the door and stepped back. "Yeah." Slowly, I closed it.   With a long sigh, I laid my arm against the door, resting my forehead against it. As I did, I heard a light sob from behind me. Quickly, I turned to find Sweetie Belle staring at me with tearful eyes. "Y-You should leave too."  I was a little shocked by this. "W-What?"  She closed her eyes and looked down gritting her teeth. "You know, the thing about being an android is you can tap into pretty much every networked electronic device. Like the security cameras by the doors. Not like the whole neighborhood couldn't hear already though."   I stepped forward. "Sweetie."  "No! Just no! I know I'm not her. I have her memories, her every thought, but I can never be the her you want. I'm not flesh and blood, and that's the kicker."   "Please just stop."  "No, this has been a long time coming. I'm a fantasy to you. An escape from the real world, and I've been all too aware of this for some time."  I rubbed my brow. "No, that's not it at all. I just- What she did-"  "What she did was let things happen the way they would have anyways. And that's another thing. You need to end this idiotic rage you have against Twilight. I forgave her because I at least understood it. You never could understand her side. Look, I may not be the Sweetie Belle you want, but I can damn sure speak on her behalf."  I didn't know what to say. All those demons I've kept in the closet just blew the door off the hinges. I just want things back the way they used to be. "I know..." I kept my eyes at her feet as I opened the door. "I know."  ----------     A brisk morning wind was blowing as I sat atop a bench at the local park. I looked up at a sky filled with crafts of all types. Ponies going to and from work, home, or wherever. The skies were a lot quieter back when the only ones flying were the pegasi. Still though it all, shines an ever constant sun. No matter how much we may do to this rock, it will continue to shine on in its bright glowing apathy.   I took in a deep breath and stood, walking along the path, past the fountain, past parents playing with their foals. It's really hard to believe that this massive city used to be Ponyville.   No matter how stone cold I think I am, I'm holding it together with a shoestring. Twilight's words swim though my mind with Sweetie's. If I'm being honest, I do miss her. I miss both of them. I just want to go back to when we were younger. When I could always turn to Twilight as my best friend, and hold Sweetie Belle in my arms each night.   I hate it. I know that this version of Sweetie Belle is her. I was the one who asked for her consciousness be copied before she died. Every word she says, every thought, or emotion is hers, just not the her I fell in love with. Ironically, even though Twilight is the Twilight I grew up with, I doubt I'll ever be able to look at her the same way.   I feel defeated. I feel angry, but without cause. I feel alone.   Walking the streets, I keep my head down. I know what I should do. I know it's the right thing. Still, pride is the hardest pill to swallow.   After a few minutes of walking, I reach the centerpiece of Ponyville; Twilight's castle. I ascend the staircase and am met with her guards, however this time they do not stop me. Quite the opposite; they opened the door for me. My guess is Twilight must have told them there was a chance I'd be coming. I hate it when she's right about me.   As I enter the throne room, I look up, seeing her seated, but as soon as our gaze met, she quickly stood, making her way down to me. I took in a deep breath, the both of us meeting in the middle of the room.  "So," I said.   "So."   I paused a moment. "We need to talk. No shouting this time."   She nodded. "Okay then, let's talk."   I bit my lip. "I-I know it wasn't your fault. I haven't blamed you because I felt it was, I just always felt it was your responsibility to s-save her."   She shied away. "I can understand that."  I looked up. "I just want things back the way they were before, Twi. I miss how it used to be."  Twilight eyed me "Did something happen after I left?"  I nodded. "Sweetie said something that's still ringing in my ears. She said she can never be her. And you know the really messed up thing? I know she's right... She's an exact mental copy of her, but she's not the real her. I love her. I do, I just..."   Twilight then did something she hadn't done in a very long time; she hugged me. Slowly, I did the same.   "Twi... It feels so wrong to think like this. I don't know what to do."  She squeezed me a little tighter, and I actually started to cry a little. "Spike, I can't imagine what this feels like for you, but I'm always here for you if you need me."  "I didn't mean for it to go this way."  "I know."  I sniffled a little, and cleared my throat as I regained my composure. "And um, I've decided to accept your offer, if you'll still have me."  She gave me a light smile. "Always." > Chapter Three: Dissolution > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Intrepid Few Chapter Three: Dissolution I haven't spoken to Sweetie Belle in a few weeks now. I've tried calling, even stopping by, but no answer. Sure it hurts, but still her words held true. Sweetie Belle, my Sweetie Belle died two years ago, and this copy of her memories, her consciousness, was still just a copy. A copy I found myself holding onto, not daring to let go of. Not wanting to be alone. Is it the idea of an organic soul that makes us think this way. Someone doesn't need to be born to make you smile, to reminisce with, and to long for. Yet you still feel that lingering thought in the far recesses of your mind. A small voice saying this isn't real, no matter how real it feels. These few weeks away just make me realize that more and more. Ironically, the one pony I would have gladly never spoke to again was the only one who would still take me in. Even after all this time. I sat in the Royal Ponyville Library, the large table before me doubling as a touch screen. I look over each blueprint and progress photo of the ship. A ship that finally got it's name last week; Intrepid. I continue through the photos. The central spire of the ship connecting the massive shield at its tip to the equally huge reactor chamber at its rear. In the next photo, the twin shuttles "Icarus" and "Daedalus" both acting as counterweights for the ship's spin. This is of course to create the artificial gravity onboard. Then lastly, the fuel tanks were added; each the size of a thirty five story building. Hoof steps sounded through the corridor behind me, as Twilight walked over. Taking a seat on the bench beside me, she looked to the images I had pulled up. "So what's your thought's on naming the ship 'Intrepid'?" she asked. I shrugged. "It's fitting I suppose. Why do you ask?" "Nothing. Just wasn't my first choice. I would have much rather named it Atlantis." "Atlantis huh? The mythical city that fell into the ocean killing thousands?" I replied sarcastically. She gave me a smirk as she rolled her eyes. "I prefer the mythical city that is said to hold things beyond our wildest dreams, just waiting to be discovered." I smiled, shaking my head. "Why do you always have to be like that?" "Like what?" "Over thinking things." She chuckled. "Someone's got to do the thinking, right?" I rolled my eyes. Her smile softened and faded as she took on a more serious tone. "So have you heard from Sweetie Belle at all?" I shook my head. "No. I've tried to contact her, but she doesn't want to see me right now." She looked down, and slowly lifted her hoof around me. "I'm sorry." "No. It's alright. I feel like in a way, I needed this." I paused. "Living with her, I never really had the opportunity to accept that the real Sweetie Belle was gone. Only delaying the grieving process I guess." "Well, if you ever need to talk, don't hesitate to ask me. Okay?" I nodded. "Of course... And there's something else." Twilight's ears perked up a bit. "What is it?" My eyes stayed fixed at her hooves, not wanting to look up. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry for blaming you." "Spike-" "I-I've known there was nothing you could do. I just believed she was going to become an alicorn so bad. It was all she would talk about. Always telling me one day she'd discover a new magic like you, and become a princess." Twilight rested her other hoof atop my hand, which I quickly held onto. "Spike, I wish I could have helped her find that. I really do. Honestly-" She paused. "I feel like I failed her as her teacher. All those things you said, I've been asking myself how I could have done things differently." I looked up, a little surprised, and even more ashamed. We were both close to her, yet I never stopped to think of how her death affected Twilight. It was wrong of me to be so selfish. Slowly, I pulled her in close. As I did so, I felt her tear fall onto my arm. I couldn't help but feel my eyes beginning to water up as well. "I miss her so much. The real her," I said, a few of my tears finally starting to break free. She pulled me into her more. "I do to." It took us a few minutes, but this was something we both needed. Just getting this buildup of grief out in the open. Turning away, she wiped away her tears. Watery bloodshot eyes facing me as I did the same. "Well, um," she began with a cracky voice. "There was something else I wanted to tell you." I cleared my throat. "Y-Yeah?" Wiping away a few more tears, she tapped the screen a few times to reveal an image of a patch. It was the flag of equestria reaching to a bright star with the outline of a planet behind it. And at the very top, an homage to our old friends. Seven stars, each the color of their fur, with one bright green star as the exception. It was the one right in the middle too. "I uh, threw this together after they announced the name of the ship. Princess Celestia already approved it." I gave her a sheepish smile. "I love it." I then pointed to the small green star and asked "Might I ask why you added my color to the elements of harmony?" She looked to me with sincerity in her eyes. "We never would have made it without you. You're more than deserving of a star." I gave a little chuckle in reply, before giving her a quick hug. "Thank you, Twi." --------- Needing a little fresh air, I decided to go up to the balcony. Running into one of the royal guards, he quickly bowed, before saying "Sorry sir, I'll leave you be." I threw up a hand. "Nonsense, you're fine as you were, Golden Shield." He then nodded, and turned away overlooking the city below. I joined him, leaning against the railing. "Can I ask you something?" He nodded. "Of course, sir." "What's one thing you'd want to do if you knew you'd never get to do it again? And I don't mean the usual kiss your wife or anything like that. Name something fun." The guard smiled. "Well sir, you may think it's rather simple, but I'd go to my favorite restaurant one last time, bring out all my friends, and just have one last fun night together." I smiled as well. "Hey it's simple, but there's no problem with being simple if it makes you happy... Only issue is my friends were the Elements of Harmony, and all I have left are colleagues." He nodded. "In that case, do something you've always wanted to but never took the time to do. Go climb a mountain, go out to the waterfalls in the Everfree. You can never go wrong with the beauty of nature, sir." I patted him on his shoulder. "This is why I've always prefered you guys in Ponyville over the dicks in Canterlot." He let out a laugh. "Indeed, there are quite a few like that over there." A cool breeze then came up over the balcony, giving me a little shiver. The guard however, stood without showing the slightest indication he was cold. "I really don't see how you guys do it. That metal has to be freezing." He nodded. "We've gotten used to it." "So, do you know your next assignment after Twilight and I leave?" "Not just yet, but I've heard the Crystal Empire getting thrown around a bit." "Oh you'll enjoy it, but be warned the guards up there are a bit more strict than here." With a smile he replied "I know no one will treat us quite as well as you and Princess Twilight, sir." I grinned as I took his hoof, and shook it. "Good luck, Golden Shield." "Thank you, sir." With that, I turned and made my way back inside. As I descended the spiral staircase, I bumped right into Twilight. Both of us a little startled, but laughed it off. "Hey, I was looking for you," she said. "Oh, what's up?" She the gestured with her hoof to follow her, and so I did. Down the halls, to her bedroom. She opened the door for me, before closing it behind us. I was a little confused as to why she'd bring me here, but went along with it nonetheless. "So I just spoke to Celestia, and she wanted me to bring you in on this." I eyed her. "On what?" She lowered her voice. "The real reason we built the Intrepid." Okay, now I'm confused. "There's a second reason?" "It was actually my selling point for the mission. Basically, with the Elements of Harmony gone, and there still being no shortage of magical or physical threats to Equestria, I proposed that the best defense against these threats would be to diversify the playing table." I raised my brow. "You're talking about colonizing worlds so that if something were to happen to Earth..." She nodded. "Precisely. Our mission is to basically scout out new worlds, establish landing sites for future colonists, and claim territory for Equestria." "So why tell me this?" She cleared her throat. "Well, Princess Celestia also told me something else. With my leadership experience, and your knowledge of the planets, she thought it a good idea to name us both commanders." I crossed my arms. "Wait, how does that even work?" "Hey, she always seems to have a plan somehow, so I've just learned to not question her word." "If you say so." ---------- One Hundred Fifty years. In our year long journey shiptime, one hundred fifty years will have passed back on Earth. In the last hundred years, Equestria has become a nation reborn with technology, but to more than double it, I can't even begin to imagine the innovations we'd come back to find. That is if there's anything left to come back to. On top of that, the moment we kick on the engines, we'll lose all communications with Earth. With the speed we'll be traveling, any communications we'd send will be arriving only a little sooner than we would. We will be totally alone in the void, with no one but each other to count on. No backup, no rescue, no escape plan. With the days counting down, I decided to give it one last go to try to make things right. I just can't leave things with Sweetie Belle the way I did. Taking in a deep breath, I ring our doorbell. Nothing. I give it a few seconds and try again. Still nothing. I wait for a solid minute, and with a sigh, turn and start to walk away, when I finally hear the sound of a lock clicking open. I quickly do a one eighty, finding a distraught Sweetie Belle in the doorway. I take a step closer. "Hey, are you okay?" She waves me off with a hoof. "I'm fine." "C-Can I come in?" Hesitantly she nods, and I follow her inside. "I heard you reconsidered Princess Celestia's offer." I nodded. "Yeah. We don't have a set launch date, but we're expecting sometime in the next few weeks." She gave me a meek smile. "That's good. I'm happy for you... You're staying with Twilight now?" "Yeah, we ended up talking for awhile, just getting everything out on the table." "I'm glad to hear that." I kept my distance, not wanting to upset her anymore, but I had to say something. "I've missed you. A lot." She averted her gaze. "I've missed you too." Sighing, I asked "What are we doing?" Sweetie Belle only stared at the ground. "I'm going to say something, but I just want you to listen until I'm done." The tone in her voice concerned me. Looking up at me with tears in her eyes, she bit her lip. "Spike... I-I don't know what I'm supposed to think anymore. I know I'm not really her, but I can still remember the butterflies in her stomach the first time we kissed, I can remember how she felt on her wedding day, all of it. But I don't know if what I feel for you is really the love she had for you, or if it's just the closests representation they can put to software. I just- I just don't know if I can ever love you like she did and-" Her voice cracked as she started to sob. "I-I wish I was her! But I'm just holding you back from finding something real." That was it. I couldn't just stand here watching her cry anymore. I pulled her in, letting her bury her face into my chest. Even if she wasn't the Sweetie Belle I married, whatever it was she was feeling was real. Those tears on my scales were proof enough. She looked up at me, sniffling as she tried to wipe away her tears. "I'm sorry, I-I shouldn't have done that." I hugged her tight. "Sweetie, if that isn't real, I don't know what is." "Spike, please don't. I'm not-" "Yes, you are. Do I know if what you feel is the same as her? No. But when I look into your eyes, I know whatever that spark is, you have it. Your love is real." "Spike..." I can't let her go. > Chapter Four: Launch > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Intrepid Few Chapter Four: Launch T Minus: 48 Hours For how huge of a mission we were about to embark on, you'd think training would have been a little more intensive, but for Twilight and I, it was mostly leadership, with some basics thrown in. For instance, re-entry G force management, environmental suit functions, offloading procedures, and basic command codes. I guess they expect us to already have a good understanding of our specific duties. Though let's just hope no one needs me to make a space walks anytime soon. I will admit, the atmosphere at the training center was rather tense. Everyone seemed like they were in a hurry to make sure you know what you need to, before moving on. You could definitely get the feeling that this was a space race. I'm just thankful the rest of the crew was given more than a year to prepare. Of course they had a bit more notice than Twilight and I. It's amazing to think about it. In just a few hours we'll be leaving the Earth for longer than anyone has in all of history. I'm still having trouble wrapping my head around the fact that when I return, everyone I'm leaving behind will be long dead. Everything I've known; gone. Though we all know sacrifices need to be made in the name of discovery. Running my hand over the counter, feeling the cool stone finish, I think of this as a way of saying goodbye to my home. The house I've lived in for almost forty years, where so many memories were made. It's a very bittersweet feeling. "Even knowing this was coming, it still feels weird now that it's so close." Sweetie Belle gave me a warm smile as she walked over to me, wrapping her hooves around my waist. "Come on now, don't be sad. You should be excited. Spike, this is going to be the adventure of your lifetime." I ran my fingers through her mane, returning the smile. "I know. Still, it's hard to move on." She placed a hoof atop my chest. "Hey, come on. Theres something I wanted to show you." She then took me by the hand, pulling me out to the back door, out into our yard. Before us was a small telescope. It took me a minute, but I quickly realized it was the very same type as the one in Twilight's library before it was destroyed. I covered my mouth, letting out a laugh as I stepped closer. "W-Where did you find this?" She put her hoof around me. "I was in Canterlot a few months back, and just looking through an antique shop. There's something else... Look at the wood near the eyepiece." I looked closer, when I noticed a small bit of charring around the base. I looked up a little further, and almost gasped. Right there etched into the wood was "Property of Spike and Twilight". I ran my fingers down the length, feeling a chill as I did so. This was really it. I looked to Sweetie Belle with a look of disbelief. "How?" She crossed her hooves, bashfully looking to the telescope and back to me. "When I found it, all that was left was the bottom piece. I brought it into a shop where they found the replacement parts, and put it back together." I was too shocked to know what to do. Without thinking, I just instinctively pulled her in. "This is the most thoughtful gift anyone has ever given me. Thank you." She giggled as she nuzzled against me. "I'm glad you like it." Pulling back, she gestured towards the telescope. "Go ahead, have a look. If I have the angles and time right, you should see a familiar sight." I gave her a quick kiss on the forehead, before turning to the telescope. Peering through the lens, I grinned at the sight. Two bright stars shining, with a third small red speck just barely visible. Proxima Centauri. As I stared, she wrapped her hoof around me. "I know you can't take it with you, but I wanted you to see where you're going." I shook my head, starting to tear up. "You'll take care of it until I get back, right?" She pulled me in tight. "Hey, don't start crying. If you start crying then I will too." I wiped my eyes, trying to bite my tongue. "I know. It's just really starting to hit me." With tearful eyes, she rested her head on my shoulder. "Can you do me a favor?" "Of course. Anything." She took a deep breath. "Before you go. I want you to shut me down, and remove my processor... I want you to bring me with you." I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little surprised by this request, but I was far more overjoyed. "A-Are you sure? What about your body?" A tear rolled down her cheek as she leaned in to kiss me. "Sometimes sacrifices have to be made for those we love." ---------- T Minus: Twenty Hours The smell of new plastic, the kind you smell right after you open a toy, filled the air. The clean room we sat in was filled with workers and astronauts, each worker wore white coveralls and surgical masks. They weren't wearing them for their protection, but ours. Afterall, nothing would suck more than to have everyone onboard catch the flu at the same time. I smiled over to a nervous looking Twilight, sitting next to a row of other ponies also halfway through the suit up process. Even though she looked like she was about ready to be sick, she returned the gesture. "Raise your arms please," requested one of the ponies. I did as he said, allowing him to slip on my flight vest. On this blue hunk of aluminum was the atmosphere and temperature regulators that would keep me alive if something were to go wrong. Though that's assuming the only thing to go wrong isn't a massive explosion. Next a metal ring locked into place around my neck, secured to the vest as to prevent it from sliding down. Then were my gloves. Each one giving a satisfying click, letting me know they were sealed. Finally, it was time for my helmet. The bright white contrasting with the varying shades of blue on the rest of the suit; something Rarity would have never approved of. With that last latch clicking shut I felt the air rush into the suit as it switched to the contained breathing unit. "Can you hear me?" asked the pony. I nodded in reply, but he didn't seem to like that. "No, I need you to speak so I can test the audio equipment." I cleared my throat. "I can hear you just fine." "Good. Good. Now I'd like you to stand up so we can look over your suit." "Alright." And so I stood, taking a step forward. Again I lifted up my arms. A few ponies were now checking everything from the stitching, to the seals at my boots. While they went over me, I looked to my arm, seeing a small mirror, but when I turned my head, the suit must have picked up on the motion because it switched to display the name "Intrepid" followed by my name with a series of vitals beneath it. Definitely something I'll be playing with later. The pony who I assumed was in charge of the assessment, then looked over to the others. "He's good to go." Looking back to me, he pointed to a hallway. "Right down there, please." As I walked through the hallway, out to the shuttle, I couldn't help but feel this wasn't real. Like it was just a dream. Stepping through the doors, I walked out onto the tarmac where I was lead to a large open air bus. I guess someone thought it'd be nice to give those astronauts as much time in the sunlight as they could get. As soon as everyone took their seats, we were on our way to the launch tower. Rounding the corner, we finally got to look out at the massive shuttle. This thing was the size of a small aircraft carrier, but had enough thrust to get us to orbit, and beyond. Pulling up beside it, I couldn't help but feel incredibly small as the twelve tires at its base were each fifteen feet tall. Everything about this monster was off the charts. At the side of the ship, a large bay door hung open, revealing the cargo area. With a tinge of hesitation, I stepped off the bus, and walked over to the shuttle. It was intimidating as all hell. I took that first step onto the metal platform, and just stared at my feet for a second. One by one we all lined up, walking up the ramp. It was really happening. We were really leaving. Walking up those steps to the cockpit, I could almost feel the blood leaving my head. Sure they had us train in mockups, but this was completely different. Looking around the dozen seats, I saw names of each person who'd be joining us illuminated above the headrest. In the middle, was mine and Twilight's. We both took our seats, and started to get buckled in. As we did, others from the crew would check over each other's straps before taking care of their own. I wasn't sure how much checking a six point harness needs, but I felt pretty damn secure with the job I did. Looking over at Twilight, who was currently tightening the straps down so hard you'd think they were about to rip. I reached out my hand, resting it atop her hoof. "You're going to be fine. This bird has made quite a few trips up to Intrepid." She nodded, trying to put on a brave smile, but I could feel her shaking through her suit. I squeezed her hoof tighter, and she seemed to calm down a bit. The pilot then looked over at us, scanning over the rest of the crew. I caught a little grin from him as he looked to some of the more nervous faces. "I hope everyone's having a good day. My name's Starchaser and I'll be your pilot. I've got a green light from everyone's harness, and control just gave me the go ahead to seal the hatches and fuel the engines. So I hope everyone's ready." I looked up to the controls above his head, most of them just lights on a touch screen. Even our windows were only displays, as actual glass would be too fragile at such speeds. Though in the middle of it all was a bright red set of numbers. Just thirty seconds to go. Even though I was trying to keep my cool for Twilight's sake, my stomach was doing back flips. It was like the feeling you get as a rollercoaster crests that hill, and you get to look down at hall the crazy loops and turns you're about to go through. "Twelve, Eleven, Ten, Nine, Eight-" Twilight wrapped her other hoof around my hand. "Promise you won't let go?" I nodded. "I promise." "Seven, Six, Five, Four, Three, Two, One." Slowly the rumbling and shaking built up as the howl from the engines grew louder. With a burn louder than anything I'd ever heard, the craft was flying down the runway. Then just as it looked like we were about to run out of room, we were in the air. I looked over at Twilight, and she was actually smiling. She was actually starting to enjoy herself. With a laugh, she turned to me and said "That wasn't so bad." Starchaser then said "Fusion afterburners firing in five, four, three, two, one." With the press of a button, everyone was planted firmly into their seats. The shaking before was nothing compared to this. And the roar was like being inside a thunderstorm next to an unending lightning bolt. I've never had Twilight cling to me so hard in her life. And honestly, I'd be lying if I said the hand not holding her wasn't digging into my armrest. Though that didn't mean I wasn't sporting the biggest grin. Sure I was scared out of my mind, but once you realize you're not going to die, it's the most fun you could possibly imagine. Looking to the display, I saw the sky turn from light blue, to navy, then eventually I could start to see the brighter stars. As the sky shifted from a star filled navy to a star filled black, the shaking finally stopped. No longer was I held in by the thrust, I could feel myself being lifted up from the lack of gravity. Before I even had time to react to this incredible feeling, I was awestruck by yet another sight. Silhouetted by the black of space sat the Intrepid. ---------- T Minus: 1 Hour We were told to try to get some sleep before we made the jump to sub-light. Key word of course being 'try'. It's going to take me awhile to get used to this reduced artificial gravity. If I were on Mars, this is how I imagine it would feel. Slipping out of bed, I throw on my navy blue jumpsuit. On my left arm, the flag of Equestria, my right the patch of the Intrepid, and above my right breast pocket a pair of wings with my name and rank. Of course most ponies just go off the brass on your collar. Metallic grey walls surround me, complimented by a grey dresser, a grey bed frame, but lord behold, my bedspread is a navy blue. Yeah, interior design wasn't too high on the list. I walked over to my dresser, and placed my thumb on the frame, and in response, the bottom drawer opened. Inside was a small box of belongings. I didn't bring anything too special. Just a digital photo frame, a necklace Sweetie Belle gave me when we were still dating, and some old letters from our friends. It's amazing how sentimental you get when you're told you can only bring two pounds of belongings onboard. Of course, there was one more object in the box. I reached in, pulling out the small blue crystal cube. Walking over to the wall, I pressed my hand against a panel, causing it to slide open. Inside was a slot for three such crystals. Holding my breath, I slipped it inside, and closed the panel. "Come on." I gave it a few minutes, but there was still nothing. I was beginning to get worried. "Sweetie? Are you there?" Nothing. At this point I was internally screaming. "Come on!" "Hey, there's no need to shout," came a familiar voice. I turned to see Sweetie Belle, or rather her hologram, standing next to my bed. I immediately let out a sigh of relief. "You had me worried there." She looked down. "Sorry. It took me a minute to configure this system. If it makes you feel any better, I'd hug you if I could." I let out a laugh. "Oh trust me, I would do the same." She gave me a smile before looking around the room. "So... This is the Intrepid... It's um, nice?" I shrugged. "Yeah, it's atrocious." "Seriously! What's the deal with all the grey? I mean fashion was more Rarity's thing, but this looks like it was done by a depressed eighty year old hermit." I couldn't help but chuckle. "Well, It looks very 'shippy'." She crossed her arms, not finding my joke very amusing. "Hang on; let me try something." With that, her hologram cut out, but soon after the room started to change. The floor turned to hardwood, the walls and ceiling resembling that from our home, even the dresser and bed frame turned to stained oak. But the coolest thing by far was the window overlooking the planet. "You like it?" I turned away from the view to see her sitting atop my bed. I was honestly amazed. "Th-That's incredible." She giggled. "I'll take that as a yes. Everything in here is coated with a photo-film. I guess dull grey was just the default setting." "You're amazing." Sweetie Belle grinned and replied sarcastically "I know." Just then, Twilight's voice came over the room's sound system. "Spike, I need you to meet me in the observation deck." "I'll be there in a second." Sweetie Belle gave me a playful salute. "Go get to work commander." I laughed, shaking my head as I stepped out. I was glad a little more effort went into the hallways. Instead of that wonderful grey, the walls were a bright sky blue, with runway lights at the top and bottom, as well as safety bars at waist height, just in case you needed to secure yourself to something quickly. As I walked down towards the elevator, I passed several crew members, half too busy to notice me, the other half trying to salute me. I really do hope they drop the formalities eventually; that will get old after a while. Finally I reached the elevator. Stepping inside I noticed a large screen on the wall, displaying the name "Intrepid" and on the floor, the seal of the ship. As soon as I hit the screen, the elevator shot away, almost making me lose my footing. When the doors opened, I stepped out into a dark room. By the window, or screen, was Twilight. The Earthlight lighting up her face. She smiled over at me, waving me over with a hoof. "Come here." She looked like a foal in a candy store as she looked out at the ground below. "This is just amazing, Spike." I paused for a moment, just taking it all in. "Yeah, it really is." Neither of us spoke, just staring down at our home. It's amazing to think all that we've ever known, every war, every ruler, every city, all of it, lived and died here on this one little world. And here we are, ready to change all of that. Still staring in awe, I felt Twilight lean into me, wrapping her hooves around my waist. I looked down at her, our eyes meeting as she rested her head against my chest. "I'm so glad you decided to come, Spike. I don't think I could do it without you." I smiled down as I wrapped my arms around her. "Oh you would have found a way some how." She giggled, and replied "Sadly I don't share that confidence." I shook my head. "Come on now. You look good in that uniform. Like you're doing what you were truly meant to do." She blushed. "Thank you. I'm still glad you're here." Again, the intercom rang out "Attention, we are five minutes away from launch, everyone please report to your stations, and secure yourselves." Slowly I broke our embrace. "Guess we better report to the bridge." She nodded, before turning back for one more look. "Just needed to see it one last time." The both of us made our way down the now much less crowded hallways towards the front of the craft. As soon as we entered the room, everyone stood to salute us. Everyone in this room was one of the most respected, skilled, and knowledgeable ponies in their field, and they stood here saluting us. Having a scared tech do it is one thing, but this was an entirely different feeling. "As you were," commanded Twilight. The both of us took our seats at the center of the room, buckling ourselves in as everyone else did. Each pony was hard at work double and triple checking their individual systems. Everything was good to go. We are less than a minute away from making history. Twilight smiled over at me. "You ready Spike?" I chuckled. "I was born ready, Twi." Above the display, much like in the shuttle, a red screen showed the countdown. "Fifteen Seconds." Reaching out a hand to Twilight, I held her hoof once more. This time as we locked eyes, she looked much calmer; determined even. "Ten, Nine, Eight, Seven, Six, Five, Four, Three, Two, One." "Let's go to the stars."