Before read introduction

Before you read...

Hi there, thank you so much for choosing to look at this story in advance. Before it all begins, I would like to address a few things.

I.The entire point of "Together Alone"

This story was actually commissioned by one of my colleagues, who is into Sparity as much as I am. Come to think of it, it wasn't much of an order, more like a friendly suggestion.

The key to the story is the fact that Rarity and Spike are passing the "wooing and courting". Spike confessed his love to her and Rarity wrote him a letter, realizing that his song stirred her feelings, causing her to display eagerness to discover how deep her newly found feelings run (all in the prequel)

In this story, they are both nervous but in the same time accepting around each other. I wanted to create a story where Spike and Rarity both act like a pair of lovesick fools, but above all, discovering loves in the environment deviod of all the tension and pretense. That's why being true to one's self play an important role here.

This story is also my personal tribute to Sparity, on the level that my writing skills can provide, that is for me one of the most underappreciated parts of the show. It is not that relationship that keeps me interested in the show, I am emotionally attached to it for many reasons, but I learned to love the potential behind this unique and controversial pair. A little more about it in a moment.

II. Time and Age

For some people it may be important that in this story Spike is freshly after 18 in pony years and Rarity is nearing to 23. Interesting fact, if dragon molt functions in any way like human puberty, I assumed that Spike is 14-15 in Molt Down. And here is the weird part. From Molt Down to Between Dark and Dawn at least 3 human years passed in Equestria. Why ? I think the most relevant factor of the passage of time here are fixed holidays, especially Heartswarming, since it is once every year. Between Molt Down and Between Dark and Dawn we have two Heartswarming episodes. That gives us two years. The third Heartswarming had to occur off screen after Going to Seed and before Between Dark and Dawn. In S09e10 we saw the Apple family harvesting every single one of the apple trees on the farm. But in the mid season finale we see the orchard with the apples back, which means they needed another vegetation cycle to bloom again. That means another year, with another Heartswarming on the way. So by the end of the first half of season 9, Spike should be 18 or at least near to it. Because of that, the thought about aging him to 18 doesn't seem so farfetched.

III. The importance and value of Spike and Rarity's love

The love of Spike towards Rarity is one of the oldest connections like this in the fandom and, like it or not, one of the few ships were we have actual confirmation of feelings, at least from one of the sides. It may not see like much but it is actually really crucial.

Over the years, Spike's affection towards Rarity gained a lot of haters...

but also many followers...

In my personal opinion, the earlier someone started watching the show, the less faith he had in Spike's ability to develop because to be honest, I can see why Spike's personality could be precieved as annoying in the earlier seasons. But although nothing visibly ages in the show, Spike changed. Over the time, he became a crucial support in everypony's life, especially Twilight's and Rarity's. He was maturing because both of his victories and defeats.

I grew to respect him because he was firm in his ideas and loved Rarity no matter what. That is a true strength. Rarity should really discuss the state of their relationship with him, whatever the outcome may be.

For me, Sparity symbolizes hope that love can come from any place and reach any soul. That you can love despite differences and love doesn't have to be sexual in nature. Being different species doesn't bother with developing a close relationship and age gap only can cause problems in the intimate area. I am sure Spike would wait

Spike and Rarity are in constant struggle between giving and taking, as a dragon and Element of Generosity. Spike is helpful to everyone yet has to control dragon's natural greed. Rarity is naturally generous, but tends to manipulate ponies and Spike to get what she wants. I believe that being together, they learn from each other.

I really liked the idea that Rarity grew up not knowing that much of a close affection and now she is clinging to every last bit of romance, changing herself and manipulating others to feel that she is loved. On the other hand, Spike doesn't believe that he can have a value or be loved unless he is useful. Both Spike and Rarity can teach each other the missing pieces of their love...if they are willing to listen.

Concluding, I think that the best concept of my love for Spike's love towards Rarity is his very own song. Through the line "Nothing can compare to You" Spike says that Rarity's existence is a gift for him and she is one of the best if not THE BEST, thing(s) that happened in his life. I think that form of love deserves some recognition

IV. Thanks and dedication

I want to send best wishes and praises to all of my friends on MLP Facebook Groups. I also am grateful for Fimfiction Sparity group. You guys are amazing creators and source of inspiration even in the darkest days. Thank you so much.

I thank my friend, who shall remain nameless, and my little cousin. She was the one who wanted to read this story first.

And finally, I bow my head before Cathy Weseluck, Tabitha St. Germain and writers of MLP. Without you, I wouldn't be able to explore this relationship at all.

So without further delay,

I DEDICATE THIS STORY TO ALL THE OUTCASTS OF THE WORLD. TRUST YOUR HEART, KEEP MARCHING ON AND BELIEVE THAT LOVE WILL FIND THE WAY

Rainy randez vous

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Chapter 1

Rarity hummed to herself quietly as she carefully finished the stitches on the dress that was going to be included into her new line, Unique and Exotique.

During the travels with her friends, Rarity slowly nurtured the inspiration that now allowed her to design a line of outfits from all over the world, the style taken for example from Saddle Arabia, Yakyakistan, Mount Aris, Crystal Empire, Dragonlands and Giffinstone.

The purpose of the line was to expand the awareness of the ponies and interest them in the culture of the foreign, beautiful countries.

Eyeing her latest creation, that was a long, golden and red Saddle Arabian dress, Rarity sighed with content.

This was absolutely marvelous. She felt like the first time when she presented her outfits in front of the audience, the creative process brought to her the same kind of giddiness she felt back then.

Rarity levitated her red glasses on the table and sit on the chair, closing her eyes and listening to the sounds of rain outside.

It was so peaceful and quiet, aside from a sound of raindrops. Just like her heart was now.

Rarity's mind was lazily drifting between recent events and pleasant memories that the last year brought to her. She recalled the trip to Canterlot with her sister and friends during the celebration of Spring Equinox and the ever funny memory of Princesses providing the karaoke show for the group. Although Rarity was still not completely sure how the windows managed to stay intact after Luna howling the songs in her Royal Canterlot Voice.

Then she reminisced over Scootaloo's parents coming to town. She was glad that she managed to meet them even if she didn't approve the way they forced themselves on the filly. Rarity had the glimpse of a bizarre similarity to her own experience on the matter, but she couldn't put a hoof on it.

The soothing sound of water made her fall into her daydream even more. And as it was frequently happening on such occasions, she heard the words of a song, distant at first but then clearer

A gift to show I care

But nothing can compare

To You, that's easy to see

https://youtu.be/zgCkN2j4S6s

The white unicorn sighed yet again as she recalled the fateful Heartswarming. Almost year and half passed since the night that changed her relationship with Spike for good. And whenever she relaxed like now, those particular memories kept coming back to her.

She could still see the scene, appearing in front of her. Spike playing a guitar, blushing so fiercely as he looked at her. Rarity could remember the slowly surfacing emotions that came through her during the song. Curiosity, shock, and slowly spreading warmth of joy.

By the end of a song, Rarity couldn't understand what she felt anymore.

She was so happy that before she knew it her lips landed on Spike's warm cheek.

No, she didn't know at all. The rest of the night she was happy in the most bizarre of ways. And it was that strange excitement that make her go back to her boutique, put a quill in her magic grasp and made the feelings flow out onto a paper.

She was so unsure. Unsure what happened with Spike, with her, with both of them. But she knew she wanted to understand. She wanted to feel that sensation again.

Because she was certain that there was no other time when she felt so loved.

Even with all of that in mind, she didn't consider her feelings for Spike as love. Not yet at least. If the affection Spike felt for her was love, she was far behind that. But nopony ever died from trying to be better, right?

She had no idea what will Spike's reaction be when he reads the letter. Would he be happy with the content ? Or will he be mad and upset about her being so indecisive ?

From all the scenarios that she analyzed, she was most stunned by what actually happened.

The next day after she sneaked the letter into the castle, Spike came to her boutique.

They looked at each other and then he did the simplest thing he could do to express his opinion.

He hugged her tightly. He didn't say one word, just embraced her.

Rarity was so shocked that for a moment she didn't show any reaction at all.

But when Spike looked up, he was hit by the wet droplet. Then the next one. And yet another.

In her rich history of romantic endeavors, Rarity often cried from heartbreak but still managed to have a smiling face. Keeping her head up during the crisis was something that she was constantly working on in herself (well, it didn't ALWAYS work out as her fainting couch almost changed shape by now, reformed by constant and systematic falling on it and wallowing in pity.)

But what happened back then was a complete opposite.

Ever since that day, both dragon and unicorn felt as if something was lifted off their chests. Earlier, their relationship was surrounded not only by controversy, but also unhealthy obsession (from Spike's side) and unfair manipulation (from her side). After that moment however, Spike stopped trying too hard to woo the unicorn and Rarity was extra careful not to abuse trust she was given. They became closer than ever and even though Rarity still wasn't ready to think of them as a couple, Spike became an extremely crucial part of her life, almost in the same league as Sweetie Belle. The warmth of that change caused them to meet more frequently and Rarity couldn't deny that she had fun and felt much at ease with Spike around.

That was the source of her serenity. And there was nothing in whole wide Equestria that could...

The sound of knocking was heard from downstairs. Rarity's eyes opened immediately, halting the train of thoughts.

She got up and stretched, walking to the door of her bedroom and then downstairs.

"Comiiiinnnnng !!!" she called in her signature welcoming, "sing-song" voice.

Rarity eyed the scenery behind the window and shivered. Despite it being only 5 in the evening, on the brink of the summer at that, it was positively dark and gloomy outside. The storm was approaching and whoever was standing outside had to be soaking wet by this point.

Rarity approached the entrance to the boutique and checked herself in the small mirror hanging in the hallway. It was always important to her to look her best in front of others, even while meeting with closest friends. Rarity liked to think of herself as dignified and refined but, as her little devil of a sister liked to remind her, she didn't have control over every ounce of her bodily functions. One of the most embarrassing flops was drooling in her sleep. And after daydreaming like that, she wasn't taking any chances.

She opened the door and looked at the silhouette standing in the rain

Spike flashed his fangs as he smiled at the unicorn

"Hi Rarity" he greeted her.

The fashionista gasped

"Spikey-Whikey ?! What an unexpected surprise!! Please, do come in. You must be absolutely drenched!”

The purple dragon smiled and waved his claw.

Throughout this year and a half, Spike did everything he could to make his body grow and looked stronger, encouraged by Rarity's letter. He was visiting Big Mac on Sweet Apple Acres and doing some workout with him, asking Ember for what was the best nutrition for the dragon growth, talking with Discord, Starlight, Twilight and Princess Celestia if magic could speed up the process.

His efforts paid off, at least partially. He didn't change drastically but he grew a bit so now he was reaching her eye level, his wings got a bit wider and Rarity couldn't deny that his muscles were very well shaped and toned. But knowing Spike, it was probably still too little for him to settle down.

The dragon in question answered her

"No problem, it takes a lot more than a spring rain to make dragon cold. We had higher body temperature than ponies."

With these words, he entered the Rarity's home/workplace, being sure to dry himself properly

"How are you Rarity ? Is everything all right ?" dragon asked with enthusiasm.

Rarity smiled back at him

"As a matter of fact, I was just thinking about how everything is perfect recently. I had an utmost pleasant time, indulging myself in my memories" Rarity chuckled lightly.

Then, in the corner of her vision, she saw something. She could've sworn that corner of Spike's lips fell slightly but it could be just a trick from the sudden illumination that lightning cast on the room.

She shivered again. The weather factory was really going all out tonight.

She regained her composure and addressed her guest

"Spike darling, not that I am unhappy with your visit, but would you mind telling me what brings you here ?"

Dragon rubbed his head, visibly embarrassed.

"I am sorry for stopping by unannounced, I know how much do you like to prepare before you have guests. Not that you need much preparation, with you being...well, you."

Rarity coughed and looked away, her lips stretching into a small smirk. She felt a small tint of blush spreading across her face.

"You are such a little charmer darling... But do not distract me from the topic at hoof. Do...do you need my help in something ?"

Spike's emerald eyes lit up

"I came to see you because I need to talk to you. I...I think that it is important"

Rarity's raised her eyebrow and turned around

"If that's the case, then let's get to a comfortable spot first. You can't have a proper tête-a-tête without some arrangement."

With that, she gestured for Spike to follow her.

Rarity's azure eyes sparkled with concern. For some time now, she had a feeling that something was off with Spike. It wasn't that apparent at first but Rarity's eye was very sharp recently and she noticed that he was less energetic than usual and had that distant, absent gaze for quite some time.

She quickened her pace. She was curious what got Spike so worked up and eager to help in any way she could.

To show him that regardless what the future will bring, she will try to keep her promise. She will prove that the days of using Spike are over. That for now the only things that she will offer him is safety and trust.

They went into a small living room on the higher floor of the building.

They looked at each other and then Spike spoke

"Would you like some tea ? Maybe jasmine, your favorite?”

Rarity nodded and smiled

"That would be delightful Spikey. The teas are...oh, my bad, I keep forgetting that you where they are even better than me"

Spike made his way to the kettle while Rarity levitated the match and lighted up three candles. Then, she slowly moved two sofas closer to each other, so they were situated across the small table. The room was rather dark, illuminated only by the candles and light of the outside world tormented by the storm which was leaking in some distorted rays of the evening sun that was emerging from behind the clouds once in a while.

Spike returned with two cups of steaming liquid, a kettle itself and...

Rarity squinted her eyes, her gaze piercing through the mixture of darkness and light that was now her living room. Then she let out a soft gasp.

In one claw Spike was holding a single, slim rose. It was not the fact that Spike brought her the flower caused her shock (he gave her many presents in the past, in much larger quantities) but the way that the rose was decorated. It was practically shining with color, her petals and leaves were covered in small gemstones and on its stalk was a small white bow, with a streaks of purple and blue.

All the colors of her body.

She smiled and looked at the dragon with half lidded eyes

„Now that is positively unexpected!!!”

Spike looked at her skeptically

„Really ?”

Rarity stifled a chuckle and waved a hoof

„Not receiving a gift darling ! I meant the way you managed to sneak it up here without me noticing ? However did you do it ?”

Spike looked to the ground shyly

„Well, Twilight and Smolder taught me a trick together. Now I can send the object to a... I guess sort of a pocket dimension and then make it reappear when I need it. Twilight says that the pinnacle of my teleportation fire will be sending me and the others as well. But for now this trick I’ve learned is enough. I did it with a rose for you because it was raining and I didn’t want to get it wet and damaged. And also because I wanted to really surprise you.”

Rarity nodded, levitating a rose towards her and giving it a gentle sniff. It smelled divine and she sighed dreamily.

Spike really knew her. No matter how cliché it sounded, she was always hungry for the gifts and compliments. And with Spike’s generosity and romantic phrasing (no matter how cheesy or dorky it sometimes was) she was receiving plenty. It was almost intoxicating.

Rarity blinked repeatedly and shook her head slightly

‘ nonono!!!!! NO!!!!!! Bad Rarity, now it is Spike who needs attention and comfort. No matter how terribly hard he makes, you must get him to open up. I honestly want to relieve him off his problems’ the unicorn thought to herself.

She motioned for Spike on the sofa, but not before she batted her eyelashes at him and smiled, reassuring him that the gift was well received

“Spike” she said quietly, sitting in front of him “please tell me what is bothering you.”

The dragon was quiet for a few seconds.

Then he spoke in the same quiet fashion

“Rarity, I think you can help me understand my destiny”

March of the outcast

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Chapter 2

Rarity blinked in surprise

“Pardon? I don’t think I fully understand”

Spike shifted in his seat

“Well, I know it is kind of weird to say and hear but...maybe I should start from the beginning. Remember the time when we all helped Scootaloo stay in Ponyville ?”

Rarity nodded

“But of course, I was terribly sorry for her and I wanted to do everything to help poor filly. That and the fact that Sweetie Belle was constantly wetting my materials with her tears...but I think you can get the picture”

“Yes, I do and I felt the same way. I helped organize the party and everything...but in the end...”

Rarity’s eyes widened at the sight of across the small table. Spike clenched his fists and small trail of smoke flew up from his nostril. The lightning illuminated the room, pronouncing the draconic, vertical slits in his emerald eyes.

“...In the end, I just was selfish and pitiful. I know that I shouldn’t wallow in pity over things that can’t be changed but I couldn’t...”

“Spike” Rarity said a little more sternly” It is rude to keep a lady waiting. And that includes suspense”

Spike blushed and cleared his throat

“Right, I’m sorry...that party...it just reminded me how much of a mess I am when it comes to my purpose. Watching all of those ponies and creatures thanking the CMC and exchanging stories of how they got their cutie marks...it made me go back to the memories I didn’t want to visit anymore.”

Rarity was listen intensely, with a bated breath

Spike slowly pointed out on her flank, where three diamonds contrasted with a pure white coat of the unicorn

“Ponies have a monopole for cutie marks” the dragon said, not trying to hide the bitterness in his voice “you are sometimes irritated that it takes long to discover that mark but in the end, it happens !!! Of all the races, you actually are certain of what are you doing here, more or less. I will never have that reassurance. I don’t mind searching on my own for my destiny but I just can’t be sure in the same way as you are. Dragons...dragons are far more complicated creatures that ponies give them a credit for. Heck, remember when I told you about Garble becoming a beat poet ? From what I heard, uncertainty and the lack if acceptance made him into a jerk that he is today. Dragons have to learn everything the hard way that is just the way it is. I hoped that being raised around ponies will give me a chance to be more like them but there were some differences that I couldn’t walk around easily...

FLASHBACK

“S-Spike, I know you wanted to play, but please understand that you are scarring the others” the kindergartner gazed at the group of colts and fillies gathered behind her.

Spike looked at her with the tears with his eyes

“Look, it is not my fault.” He pointed at his claws that slowly retracted into his fingers “I am sorry. They just get out when I feel atagi...agati...”

He searched for the word that Twilight found in their parents books.

“Agitated” he finally concluded” it was not on purpose, I swear I didn’t want to hurt anypony”

“Spike, why don’t you go pack up your things...you already done all your homework today, right ?....I think you can have the rest of the day off ?” the mare said, with the most fake smile Spike has ever seen.

That made him angry and he shouted

“So you just going to send me away again ? I didn’t do anything wrong ! You don’t have to apologize for using magic or flying or eating the grass. Why should I be the only one to blame ?”

But when he looked up, the school patio was already devoid from ponies. He was so caught up in his t he didn’t even notice them leave.

He sighed and marched to the classroom to grab his belongings.

It was his 3rd attempt in attending the pony school. Twilight's parents believed that he would make some new friends outside their home. But as it turned out, not everyone was as open minded as the Sparkle family. Especially not here. Not in Canterlot.

...

Spike was now marching home through the streets of the capital. He knew that at this hour, he couldn’t avoid the confrontations with the other citizens. And he was not mistaken

The crowd got bigger and soon Spike felt the all too familiar feeling of being observed. He didn’t have to check it by looking himself. He didn’t want to meet those eyes. They were cold, unwanting and unloving. They screamed “why are you still here ?”

https://youtu.be/ieBAugTZgEA

But those gazes weren’t the worst. After that came voices and whispers, not caring that he could hear them.

“What is it still doing here ?”

“The sooner he leaves the better”

“What was Nightlight thinking, bringing this monster to his home?”

“I hear that he is awfully close with their daughter. This...this is disgusting violation...”

“ This freak is a danger to all of us...”

Spike was marching home calmly. He heard this to many times to be visibly moved

A disgrace

A monster

An abomination

A freak

He encountered all of them in the past. Besides his family, ponies feared him and still didn’t feel comfortable in his presence.

‘It is not like I asked to be born like this. But I still want all of us to be friends. Why can’t you just accept me as I am ? I swear I wouldn’t hurt anypony . I wouldn’t ...’ the dragon thought bitterly.

Suddenly he felt his chin lifted up by a familiar purple hoof and found himself staring into deep purple eyes of his adopted sister.

“Hi Spike. How was your day ?”

Spike smiled, seeing Twilight was always managing to make him feel better

“Hey Twi, I could’ve been better but it is okay now, when you are here”

Twilight smiled awkwardly and Spike chuckled internally. She was really bad dealing with both social interactions and feelings.

“Okay, let’s go home” he placed a hoof on her back when somepony started to laugh.

Spike flinched. This laugh was so venomous that it wouldn’t surprise him if it melted everything around like an acid

“Yes dragon, go back to your safe place. It won’t help you in any way”

Spike’s eyes widened

What-

“You may think that you belong in this place” the voice from the crowd continued, undisturbed as if the masses of ponies silenced themselves on purpose for this moment “But you cannot hide your nature forever. Eventually, you will grow, start to hoard and behave like a dragon should have. And do you think you will be able to do this here ? You will forever be an outcast. Feared, misunderstood, even abused. Someone in between. I am telling you this to stop your delusions. You can’t be shielded by your family forever. Someday even they will start to fear you. You don’t belong here. You won’t find your destiny. You won’t find somepony who is like you. You won’t be able to find true love !”

Spike had tears in his eyes. He slowly looked at his sister and gasped. The usually stoic and composed Twilight positioned herself in front of him in a protective manner, her horn sparkling and sizzling with energy. Spike knew that with the powerful magic the unicorn possessed, things could get out of hand. It usually took much time for Twilight to loose her cool( in the things other than tests, studies and Princess Celestia) but when she did, she could be unstoppable.

The fact that Twilight was standing up for him warmed his heart. At least he had her by his side.

But still, the crowd started muttering and Spike even noticed ponies picking up some tomatoes and other projectiles. Twilight prepared to cast the shield spell but then...

“THAT’S ENOUGH !!!!!” echoed a powerful voice. The crowd immediately made way for none other than Princess Celestia. The white alicorn walked to a side of Twilight and Spike.

Princess of the Sun, usually so prim and proper, was now stiff and her eyes were narrowed in fury

“I GO TO VISIT MY PROTEGEÉ AND GIVE HER AN EXTRA ASSIGNMENT. AND WHAT DO I FIND??!!!!!!”she eyed the crowd carefully. The ponies were still shaken by the power of her Royal Canterlot Voice „AN INJUSTICE AND DISCRIMINATION !!!! YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO BE ELITE OF THIS NATION, GIVING THE BEST EXAMPLE, AS YOU ARE REPRESENTING THE CAPITAL OF EQUESTRIA AND MYSELF!!!!! INSTEAD, YOU ARE TARGETING AN INNOCENT CREATURE, THAT IS MY LOYAL SUBJECT AND AN ASSISTANT TO MY FAITHFUL STUDENT !!!! AND THAT I WON’T TOLERATE!!!! THIS DRAGON WAS HATCHED BY PONY MAGIC AND THEREFORE IS A CITIZEN OF EQUESTRIA. HE HAS THE SAME RIGHTS AS ANY OF YOU !!!! I DON’T WANT TO SEE ANYPONY BOTHER HIM IN SUCH A DISPICABLE MANNER. DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR ???!!!”

Celestia put her hoof down metaphorically and literally. Spike couldn’t help but sweat and not only from princess’ speech. The autumn sun got bigger and brighter. The grass around Celestia became black and smoking.

The coast cleared off in record speed. Once no pony was in sight, Celestia started to cough and wheeze, totally ruining the intimidating atmosphere

Twilight was already by her side

“Are you okay, your highness ?”

Celestia smiled coyly

“I am alright Twilight. I am just not used to using my Royal Canterlot Voice for so long”

She turned to Spike with concerned face

“Spike” she slowly spoke “is everything okay ? You can talk about how you feel if you want.”

Spike returned the smile and wipped the tears from his face

“ No Princess, everything is fine now. Thank you so much for what you did”

*****************

“Ever since that day, no one was acting it that way towards me.” Spike took another sip of tea “ But that one guy, that I never even met...I couldn’t forget what he said to me. In all of the times I messed up, like when I grew into a beast and kidnapped you or when I abused Twilight’s princess authority...it always brought back those words. What I if I am really just a delayed disaster ? I really am not a pony or dragon. I am just not sure if I would ever...”

Spike was suddenly engulfed in blue aura and pushed forward.

Then...

SMACK !

Spike blinked, dumb folded, touching his slightly aching head

“Why-“

“DON’T YOU DARE SAY THAT !”

Spike looked at the mare in front of him, his jaw dropping. Rarity was shaking and streams of tears marked her pristine white coat by the black mascara trails.

It all happened faster than Spike could notice but in the next seconds Rarity was hugging him tightly. She was as moved as he was and he could feel a little shivers shaking her body

“Don’t you dare say that you are a disaster ! Even if you are the dragon, you are still one of the sweetest, most brave and caring souls in Ponyville. Don’t ever think otherwise ! This town, no, entire Equestria wouldn’t be the same without you . You have a lot of ponies and creature that value you for who you are. Twilight needs you, girls need you...”her voice broke and grew quiet” I need you too...”

The next few minutes was quiet. They were both hugging each other and Spike slowly relaxed, drowning into the sound of rain and Rarity’s sweetly smelling fur. The unicorn also calmed down and even sighed with pleasure. It was apparent that she was enjoying Spike’s natural heat.

A flash of fear coursed through Spike’s mind. They were awfully close to each other. When they first meet up after Rairty’s letter, they both agreed to keep some distance before deciding what will become of their relationship.

But they both needed it. So they laid in silence.

After what seemed like hours, Rarity spoke

“Spikey...thank you so much for sharing this with me. I had no idea about your past experiences. I can’t say that I know how you felt but I will make sure that I help you feel better. You said you are still unsure who are you meant to be ?”

Spike nodded

“Yes, that is the general issue. From time to time, I just don’t feel..well, “pony enough”, I guess. During those periods of time, I am usually moping in this and this is why I was hesitant to talk about this. My fate is something that I should discover and decide. But...”

“You felt estranged enough in the past to do this alone” Rarity sniffed at she furiously tried to remove the smudged trails of mascara.

Spike chuckled and got up.

“Wait a moment !” he said and disappeared

Rarity was left motionless. Then Spike returned with a small piece of clean cloth.

He pointed to her face.

“May I, milady?”

Rarity giggled and lowered her head

“Do your duty, oh fair knight “

With great care and gentleness, Spike removed all the mascara from the face of the white beauty, trying desperately not to think how adorably squishy and soft Rarity’s cheeks felt through the cloth.

“Then, all done.” Spike exhaled and turned to the door “Rarity, I am really glad that you listened to me. I feel better already. But I can’t burden you anymore than I already did. So I will-“

“Spike !” Rarity said with firm tone that caused the dragon to turn around

With the furrowed eyebrows and determined look on her face, the designer slowly said

“Spike, what you just revealed was too important for me, or it would be for any of our friends. You don’t think that you would simply walk away with it, do you ?”

Spike tilted his head to the side, his mouth slightly open

“Rarity...”

“Spike, give me this evening” the fashionista continued” and through the time we spend together, you may find your answers.”

Spike opened his mouth and then closed it again.

“Are you sure ? Do you even know how we can do it ?”

Rarity gave a dragon a cute pout and watched with amusement as he blushed fiercely. She sighed, tossing her masterfully curled violet mane to the other side of her neck.

“To be honest, I don’t. But what I do know is that the search of that nature is better conducted with somepony by your side. Spike, you did so much for me in the past. Consider it as a repaying the favor. Besides, nothing is as pleasant as the time spent by the side of someone so dear to me as you”

Spike smiled at his long time love, flashing the white fangs in his mouth

“It would be an honor” he bowed slightly.

Rarity rolled her eyes with amusement and motioned towards the kitchen

“Why don’t we commence with preparing some food.” she suggested

The dragon nodded and was about to go through the door when Rarity suddenly stopped him

“One more question darling. As I said earlier, I am really flattered that you decided to confess to me, but...why exactly me ? I am no expert in the matter and surely there were more qualified ponies that could handle the task. Starlight for example, she is a guidance consuler, isn’t she ?”

Spike scratched his head

“Yeah, I thought about Starlight. But she is recently off duty, trying to make up for the lost time with Trixie and the rest of her friends. I can’t blame her and I was glad that it was solved somehow, that glowing bracelet was starting to drive me crazy ! So I decided that I would avoid her for a while. Her work-ponysona, I mean”

Rarity tapped her chin

“Oh, I see...but if you have doubts about your purpose or destiny, why not going to my dear sister and her friends ? Since you being upset started because of their party...”

Spike shook his head

“I don’t doubt that Sweetie and the Crusaders would do everything in their power to satisfy me, I had some second thoughts however. That was not the main thing I was looking for. A purpose and satisfaction is not the same thing”

He looked into the deep pools of azure blue, shaded by the long eyelashes.

“Rarity, I chose to come to you because of two reasons. Firstly, I trust you more than anyone in Equestria, save from Twilight and Princess Celestia. And secondly...your special talent is something that can help me find my answers”

Rarity instinctively looked at her diamond-adorned flank

“My special talent ? How so ?”

“Your ability is not only to find gems. Your true gift is to find beauty in everything, no matter how dull it may seem. You lift everything up when it seems there is no hope. You give it the part of beauty that you shine through with. You do everything to make everything feel and look wonderful. And that’s why I hoped that being with you will help me see this beauty in me and maybe it will stay with me. As long as I am with you.”

Rarity felt a hot blush creep up her pale features. Like many others, her cutie mark could have a few interpretations. Some ponies thought she was just another pretty face liking shiny things. Well, she assumed that was partially true. But there was much more to her purpose and Spike managed to capture it in such a romantic way...she felt a warm feeling of gratitude spread through her body.

“Thank you Spikey Whikey” she whispered softly, when she followed the dragon to the kitchen “ I promise I won’t let you down. I will dig as deep as I can. And coming from me, this is a statement of a century.”

Different and yet so close

View Online

Chapter 3

Spike and Rarity entered the kitchen and looked around.

“So, what would you like to eat ?” Spike asked.

Rarity scanned the room thoughtfully and used her magic to open the fridge.

Her face fell.

“Apparently, Sweetie was rampaging throughout the contents. There isn’t as much as I initially thought...”

“Well, there are the eggs, vanilla, oats, frozen chocolate...we could make some dessert with it...”

Rarity’s eyes lit up

“Yes, with that we can at least make my mother’s signature chocolate and vanilla cookies. It was my favorite dessert when I was a filly”

Spike cocked up an eyebrow

“Is this were your love of devouring vanilla oats ice cream while stressed originated ?”

Rarity turned her head away, ashamed

“I wasn’t devouring them...there were just...gentle portions...”

Spike exploded into laughter

“Yes, maybe we have different ideas what a portion is. But during some really bad days you were eating four containers and then still trying to grab some out of thin air before you realized they were not there anymore”

Rarity pursed her lips

“Oh, hush you...” she huffed, with her nose high in the air.

Spike opened the cupboard

“Well, we have flour here so we can star-WOAH !”

Spike felt himself loosing balance and before he knew it, world disappeared in the cloud of white.

He looked around to notice the white persian cat calmly resuming his way to the bowl with food.

Spike gritted his teeth. Opal was a constant problem for him when he was carrying something, always crossing his way in the least convenient moment. Since he got wings, the flying reduced the number of potential disasters.

Spike groaned in frustration. Of all the moments he decided to walk instead of using wings...

Half of the kitchen was now covered in a white powder. Rarity standing in the centre of the mess was covered in the flour from top to bottom, the only visible parts being the fragments of her violet locks.

Rarity’s head was high and it looked as if she tried desperately to look away from the terrible sight

Spike got to his feet and ran to Rarity

“Rarity, I am so sorry !” He blurted “ it was an accident, I swear”

The unicorn opened her mouth slightly and her lower lip began to quiver

‘Oh no, she is probably disgusted ! She hates that kind of a mess’ Spike thought bitterly

“Don’t worry I will just...”

“RHAAAAAAAPPPPPPSHHHHHOOOOOIEEEEEEEE !!!!!!” Rarity sneezed in a very unladylike fashion, two clouds of white being expelled from her nose.

As everything concerning the Element of Generosity, the sneeze was over the top dramatic and its strength make Rarity fall to the floor.

Spike was staring blankly at Rarity. All of that posing and suspense was just fighting off one sneeze ?

Celestia, he loved this mare and her antics.

Rarity slowly got up and blushed from embarrassment

“Sweet Celestia, bless me.” She twirled a part of her mane “ Spikey, I am sorry that you had to witness that ordinary and gross display. But it happened so fast and tickled so badly that I couldn’t restrain myself.”

Spike smiled at her jokingly

“Are you kidding ? There is nothing to apologize for ! That...”

“If you say that this earsplitting pandemonium sounded like a chorus of the angels to you, I will really have to punish you for lying” unicorn glared at Spike, but there was something in her voice that was telling that she wasn’t really mad.

“Oh please do...” whispered Spike before he could stop himself.

Rarity tilted her head on the side

“I am sorry darling, what was that ? I didn’t quite get...”

“NOTHING IMPORTANT !” Spike said a little louder than planned

‘ This is so unfair Rarity, why do you trick me like this with such phrasing ?’ he thought as he cleared his throat and resumed

“What I meant to say was that there were worse accidents than some social flop. One time, I sneezed and burnt down Twilight’s book. So I don’t have anything against your...how did you call it... ”earsplitting pandemonium?””

Rarity looked at him. She bit her lip as her body shook one time, then another. Spike heard a snickering, then giggling and finally Rarity exploded into a cascade of melodious laughter, falling to the floor once again.

Her laughing fit lasted almost a minute before it finally subsided. She looked at shocked Spike with a twinkle of joy flashing in her sapphire iris.

“Oh Spikey Whikey” she cooed “for the faux pas like that, I would certainly be avoided in the higher society. But you go out of your way to assure me that it is nothing to be ashamed of !”

Spike shuffled the ground with his feet

“Yeah, because when you love someone, you don’t love just parts. You may try to change them but the most important thing is to be there for others. I will always support you Rarity, even your unladylike parts. It is not the lady I fell in love with, it is a real Rarity. Besides, it is nice to know that you are not perfect. It makes you more...warm and natural.”

Rarity smiled sweetly

“That’s why I simply adore spending time with you darling. You are doing your best to not be judgmental and because of that, I can really be myself, without any masks or pretense. Look at me, lying on the floor covered in common baking supply. It is still quite revolting to me. But on the other hoof, I learned that sometimes relax and have a good laugh. Don’t get me wrong, being the example of a proper lady is a crucial part in my life but nopony can be perfect and stiff all the time”

‘No, even if you come really close’ Spike thought before giving a messy kitchen another look and sighing

Rarity’s smiling face turned into a disgusted one

“But in all seriousness, a moment can only last so long. Ugh, we should really clean this up” she said before stifling a second sneeze, this time a dainty one.

Spike rolled his eyes, seeing the more prissy side of his beloved returning with a full force.

“Sure, totally agreed” he said marching off to began the cleaning

Half an hour later...

“So that was a complete disaster” Rarity, now cleaned from the flour, looked at her big grandfather clock “Whatever shall we do ? It is such an unfortunate twist of fate that Opalescence made our dreams about cookies go up in smoke...or rather in clouds”

Spike was deep in thought, pacing and thinking about some alternatives they could participate in.

Then his head shot up as he listened for a moment

Rarity looked at Spike and halted her rant

“What is it ?” she asked

“I think...”Spike muttered after consideration “I think that the storm is calming down... what do you say we go for a late evening stroll ?”

“Well, if the rain did calmed down enough...” Rarity pondered for a while “what an intriguing idea.”

She looked at the small mirror and gasped

“Sweet Celestia, I need a composition of a perfect ensemble for this occasion !”

“Rarity, I don’t think that...” Spike’s words were already thrown at the thin air. The mare zoomed out of the room with the incredible speed, leaving only the smell of her lavender perfume and the echo of some incoherent muttering.

Spike facepalmed before smirking and pulling out a O&O guidebook off one of the bookshelves. He always one here in case of sudden “wardrobe update”

***************

Rarity posed in front of the mirror, presenting the medium length blue dress complimented by the small chalcedon tiara. She allowed herself to be a bit “unorthodox” and experiment with asymmetrical coiffure. While the left side of her mane was twisted in the series of small curls, the right was falling loose shading her eye and neck with a luscious waves of violet.

Spike was watching her, leaning over the wall and waiting for the preparations, which lasted almost an hour, to be over.

Finishing, Rarity became aware of three facts in a consecutive order

Firstly, that she was moving her hips rather widely and was displaying them... very generously

Secondly, she found out that she was doing it on purpose

Thirdly, she realized that she didn’t care.

It took all of her willpower not to squeal.

When she and Spike discussed how deep their feelings actually run, they made a pact to not try anything...in the more...intimate activities, until they both will be certain were to go with their newly revealed emotions and relationship. However, that didn’t stop both sides from intense flirting that became a sort of a secret game for the pair. Whether it was Spike’s romantic compliments or gifts, or Rarity’s displays of affection (and not only) they both played the fair part in making the other giddy and excited. That is, until they reached an invisible wall that they couldn’t cross. Rarity wanted to know if it was even possible but she also knew she had to be patient, patience being one of the characteristics of a true lady.

To put a cherry on top, she carefully put a significant necklace with the fire ruby around her neck and turned around to face Spike.

The dragon coughed, clearing his throat. Nevertheless, Rarity noticed a fading blush, which her feminine part accepted with satisfaction

Spike, who polished his scales and put on a small bow tie, motioned in the direction of the door

“Shall we go ?”

Rarity nodded eagerly

**************

For a few minutes after exiting the boutique, nothing was heard aside of gentle clopping of Rarity’s hooves, Spike’s wing flaps and of course, the hum of the rain gently hitting Rarity’s umbrella.

They took a route through Ponyville Park, one of the most pleasant places for a walk. There was nopony there, only the trees, the flowers and some birds hurrying back to their nests.

The dragon and the unicorn were contemplating the eerie and serene scenery before Rarity spoke

“Spike, returning to our previous conversation, I have to confess that I have a question. If it is not too personal for you to answer...why do you feel that you can’t be here the way you are now ?”

Spike sighed and put his claw outside of the umbrella, allowing the droplets to hit his scales.

“It is not like I don’t appreciate what I was given. For an orphan, let alone dragon egg, I could’ve ended up on far worse places and with far worse creatures. Sometimes it pains me that I don’t know why I was abandoned. But in the end, I got an amazing family, with seven wonderful mares by my side and my own group of friends.”

Dragon started to snicker under his breath

“If I was told all those years ago, when Princess Celestia was sending me and Twilight to Ponyville, that in the next years I will befriend the five of the Elements of Harmony, the Cutie Mark Erasing Dictator, Ancient God of Chaos, plus save the entire empire twice and help discover the magic of friendship with Dragon Lord and Changelling King...I would laugh it off, thinking that her brain turned into a cake itself.”

Rarity started to giggle alongside him

“Yes, life certainly wasn’t dull since we started to have adventures together”

Spike gave her the long look

“Although, I have an eternal debt to Celestia. If it wasn’t for her retirement plans...I mean, her true and honest will for Twilight to make friends, I would never met you”

“I remember that day. I still have nightmares about how badly damaged was Twilight’s mane by Rainbow’s horrendous attempts to dry her up” Rarity scoffed as they passed near the fountain “My Celestia, and what happened next ! It was such a crazy night. Who would have thought that we will manage to purge Princess Luna off Nightmare Moon. I remember that flow of power rushing through my body. It was if our souls became one in the warming light. And that very light reached out into the heart of our enemy and pulled the poor dear from the darkness of despair back to...i guess back in the darkness of the night."

"Discord always says that the saying "dark as night is a little overrated" Spike pointed at the darkening sky, visibly amused” After all, the nights are kind of purple."

Rarity bit her lip. If she was to laugh every time she was amused in Spike's company, it would finally come to the level that was unbecoming even with her more...aware and open mindset. So she stifled as wave of giggles that Spike's, or rather Discord's observation, brought to her.

"I talked to Luna face to face one time, before the Nightmare Night when she revealed her new form to everypony and came back to face the world." Spike continued " It was during the Grand Galloping Gala couple years ago. You know, the first one, your "best night ever". When all of you ran off pursuing your dreams and I..."

There was a moment of uncomfortable silence and Rarity cringed, knowing well that that Gala was not the worst night ever only for her and the rest of the girls but also for Spike. The way they treated him...no, actually it was the lack of any kind of treatment...it all added to a long testimony of Spike's abandonment issues.

"...went to look around the castle" Spike resumed, as if nothing happened "Than I met Luna, who also didn't know what to with herself. You see, through a whole year after you first used the Elements of Harmony on her, Luna was in semi-isolation, slowly adapting to the modern world as her power was slowly coming back. You should've seen her then, she was so small ! Anyway, we talked a little and she confessed how scared she was of coming down. She felt the need to do that but she couldn't bring herself to do it. She started to cry and I tried to comfort her best I could. After she calmed down, I didn't have a heart to tell her that I suffered through the same fears"

Rarity listened deep in thought. Come to think of it, Spike and princess of the night shared more than a few similarities. Both were outcasts for some time of their lives, both underwent a transformation that changed their usual personality with the darker one, both were hungry for attention that they missed out because of their older siblings stealing their spotlight. The team up of Spike and Luna during Twilight's heist mission was a way to vent their frustrations.

Luna, Starlight, even her own little sister...they all seemed awfully close to the dragon, capable of understanding him and helping him. It was lucky that none of them get closer to Spike, while at it...

WHAT ??!! Am I seriously jealous ? Over Spikey Whikey here ? Pish posh, darling, don't be ridiculous ! Me, jealous ! Ha ! Jealous, who said anything about jealous ? Not me ! It is not like I would rip to shreds every little foolish mare who would approach him ! Huh, not a chance ! And I definitely wouldn't come up with some ridiculous tasks just to have him close to me ! Never ! You are such a jester Rarity ! If any of them dared...

"Rarity ! Hey, are you there ?"

Rarity blinked and noticed Spike looking at her with concerned expression.

They almost reached the main city square and were now standing near the entrance of the city hall

The unicorn looked back at the dragon

"I...I am fine Spikey. I just...spaced out for a moment"

Spike crossed his arms

"I'd say ! I was started to really worry about you. First, you started making some silly faces, then growling and-"

"Spike, precious scales" Rarity covered his mouth with a hoof smiling. She closed her eyes and turned in Spike's direction, the grin still plastered on her face "Let us never speak of this again..."

She trotted forward, leaving Spike dumb folded in the rain

The dragon gulped and sprinted forward to match her pace

"Y-yes m'am !"

**********************

"Spike, you know that being a dragon isn't necessarily going to prevent you from enjoying the life with ponies"

They were now walking forward, making a small loop before turning back to the boutique.

Spike answered with the deadpan glare, which caused Rarity to let out a huff of irritation

"Oh, I know that you were bullied once because how different you are...but this is beside you know ! We live in a mixed up town, when everypony loves you and treats you with respect. I am sure you can't deny that."

Spike rubbed his head sheepishly

"I guess you have a point there. And maybe all of this is a paranoia that I somehow picked from Twilight but...look at me. I am a runt, even compared to other dragons. Even Smolder is taller than me and she is not that much older. Sometimes I think that the ponies don't think about me as an independent individual because of how I look. I am 5 years younger than Twilight ! Yeah, I am still a teen in pony years but in the upper half ! I am 18 for a few weeks now, remember ? I am not a baby in a diapers ! I may look like it but...this is like being stuck in a wrong body. Do you know what is like when you feel that everyone around you is turning against you ? When you are stripped from something so basic as the right to fall in love with someone you admire ?"

The wind rustled the leaves on the trees as the distant sound of a dying storm rumbled from the edges of sky.

Spike shook his head

"I am sorry, I am really rambling today...I really shouldn't-"

"No Spike !" Rarity halted the apology and looked sadly at the dragon " I do understand. What's more, I can even relate. I...I..."

There it was. The invisible wall that apparently were messing up with their courage not only on a physical level.

Both of them wanted to say something. But the words left unspoken, in the form of the silent exhales, flowing up to the night sky.

They stood there for a while.

They weren't sure.

Rarity remembered a song she and Spike listened to once while cleaning up her father's vinyl collection. She always considered it special for both Spike and herself. And now, in the rain, with both of them filled with love and trust to one another yet unsure what to say or what to do... she could hear the soft voice singing the words:

https://youtu.be/MkCB4ATLCo0

Finally, Spike clicked his tongue and extended his hoof to her.

"It is getting pretty late and the wind is picking up. I wouldn't want it to ruin your mane that you were so masterfully...crafting throughout an hour. Shall I walk you home ? Maybe we can talk about that...and other stuff there ? We can also get something to drink from Berry Punch. I heard she also makes milkshakes and I have some spare sapphires so..."

Rarity bowed lightly and placed her hoof on his hand. Corners of her lips went up under the shining veil of royal purple mane.

"I would be honored" she replied softly

Unexpected arrival

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Chapter 4

"And that's how Big Mac and I found our way out of the caverns" Spike concluded.

Rarity squealed like a little filly and pranced in place with huge grin on her face

"Ohoho, I have to admit, when there is Discord, there is always a chance of gossip. Who could have known that he will drag you two to the edge of the world just to get Fluttershy a present ? He became such a darling when it comes to her"

Spike rolled his eyes

"WE SHOULD HAVE KNOWN that's who. We are...uh, gaming buddies after all. I mean, it wasn't the first time that we traveled together looking for a gift"

Rarity leaned closer, her eyes lighting up with curiosity

"Oh ? Do tell !"

"Eahheeaaahhh..." Spike flushed red. Even after they both revealed their eagerness to know each other better and they relations considerably warmed up, being so close to Rarity still made Spike flustered „You know...we helped each other to find something special for certain ponies..."

"Certain...ponies..."

"Y-yeah, that's right. Birthday presents to be specific"

"And through what adventures you had to go through to get the gift for lady of your heart ?" Rarity asked, batting her eyelashes.

Spike shielded his eyes

"No way, the days when you could manipulate me into telling you the truth like that are over !"

Rarity pouted but then backed off and smiled

"Fine. I suppose that would ruin the surprise..."

They were now heading back to the boutique after being treated with sapphire milkshake and the glass of last year's Prench wine. On the way to Rarity's home, they started to talk about Spike's O&O group and Rarity's spa sessions with Fluttershy. And they had way too much fun with it.

Finally, the arrived at Rarity's doorstep. The fashionista levitated a key to the lock and the door slowly opened

"And although I may not be into every aspect of the game, I have to confess that I became intrigued by some of your Ogres and Oubliettes adventures." Rarity said, walking to the kitchen.

Spike waved his claw while he reached

"I told you many times this is really not thaaaahhh !" Spike gasped when the light illuminated the room.

Sitting by the chair, with her upper part practically laying on the table, was a young white-coated mare.

Rarity directed her attention towards the table, alarmed by Spike's outburst. Her eyes widened

"Sweetie Belle ?!" she uttered in disbelief.

The pony by the table was indeed Rarity's younger sibling. Being a pony in her teens, her body developed even more than Spike's. She was slowly starting to share the beauty of her sister, with her curly mane getting even longer and her body was starting to take some more feminine shapes. But she was still was the same squeaky voiced terrible cooker that everypony knew and loved (seriously, that girl was once a cause of serious food poisoning):

Rarity walked closer and she heard a sound of snoring. Sweetie Belle was sound asleep.

The older unicorn put a hoof over her head in a gesture of shock

"I-I-I don't understand " she stuttered "She must have waited here for me to return, thinking I will return at any minute... But this is not a problem here ! S-she is not supposed to be here. She has one of her music rehearsals in a few days and was supposed to stay in our family house. B-but why is she here. She knows better than to bother me unannounced now...most of the time I guess"

Spike nodded. He heard that Sweetie Belle made plans for start a singing practice when she graduates, additionally to her crusading duties. It wasn't surprising considering the lovely singing voice the crusader possessed.

Quickly eyeing the table, Spike spotted something square shaped, sticking out from under Sweetie Belle's foreleg that blended with her snow white coat

He gently took it and passed it to Rarity

"It seems that she wrote a note" he pointed at the piece of paper " And since she couldn't know that I am here, it is safe to assume that it is for you."

Rarity slowly unfolded the note and began to read it. Her eyes darted across the letters inside and second by second they were more shocked and distant.

Suddenly, she inhaled sharply and the paper was released from her magical grasp.

The seamstress went back a few steps and Spike noticed for sure.

Rarity was trembling. Her legs were shaking and the eyes began to water.

She gave a quick look at Sweetie Belle and then did the same with Spike

"I..I...excuse me..." she muttered in a cracking whisper.

With that, she sprinted out of the kitchen and then upstairs.

Spike stood there in silence for a moment, analyzing the options that he had.

He began to head after Rarity but particularly loud snort stopped him in his tracks.

The chair that supported Sweetie Belle's bottom side was slowly sliding away from the table and the sleeping unicorn was now practically a bridge between the two parts of furniture.

Spike cringed, imagining how badly Sweetie's back will hurt the next day

He sighed with his arms crossed

"I can't leave you here now, can I ? Come on..."

He approached the sleeping teenager and gently lifted her up.

He walked towards the stairs grinning. All of his hard training was paying off and he could carry Sweetie Belle with no problem. Although she was a bit heavier than she expected. No wonder, with all the ice cream eating she will surely start act like Ra...

Spike froze in place. He almost did one of the Fatal Mistakes. Although it was tempting to point out, with all the pastries and ice cream the unicorn consumed during the periods of stress, no one in Equestria could describe Rarity's weight as "above average" or Celestia forbid, the seamstress herself as "fat", if he cared for his life and welfare. Rainbow Dash once suggested that Rarity should stop eating so much sweets or she would get chubby. She was haunted by the furious seamstress for the next couple of hours.

Spike shivered, remembering Rarity with the flames in her eyes, levitating couple of tightly packed fabric rolls over her head as a baseball bats, chasing the pegasus throughout the city. Even if Rainbow managed to sneak away Rarity would always find her and deliver her judgment. Her rage seemed to give her Pinkie Pie's reality bending abilities.

Spike resumed his march up the stairs. He needed to put Sweetie Belle to bed. A true gentledrake would not only treat the lady of his heart with the utmost respect but her family as well. Besides, Spike liked Sweetie very much. At least in those times when she wasn't blowing up the inside of the library or participate in other crusader shenanigans that would afflict danger to his (and town's) life as well to the state of bones in the body. But other than that, she was a great friend to the dragon, always understanding and willing to listen.

The crusader shifted in his arms and whispered

"Oh yes Button...You achieved a level up with me..."

She started to reach for his face.

Spike moved his head away, panicking

THIS WAS SO AWKWARD

He had to make it fast before something embarrassing happen

Luckily, he remembered were Sweetie Belle's room was and managed to put her on her bed. He could get there even faster but with all of Sweetie's movements and him evading them, it looked more like some pseudo-tango in the rythm of weird music:

https://youtu.be/keirH9UrfQU

After covering her with a blanket, he silently closed the door.

Jeez, he somehow managed to sweat through his scales.

He clenched his fists, cursing Button Mash. Spike should know better than take that forsaken bet.

It was really to be expected. Who will be first in the relationship ? Of course Button and Sweetie Belle are first. Rarity was older, had more doubts and insecurities and was, well, Rarity. Some delays were sure to be expected. After all, if she and Spike ever become an official item, it would be something Equestria has never seen. It sure would be challenging and Spike wanted to give Rarity all the time she needed to decide.

But still, now he had to pay for all of their celebration if they ever manage to woo both sisters.

Spike sighed.

Then he remembered

Rarity. She looked sad and worried when she left the kitchen in such a hurry. He needed to check on her.

Sapphire tear, emerald embrace

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Chapter 5

Under the door of Rarity's bedroom he heard the sounds of sobbing and angry muttering.

He gently knocked on the door and the room became quiet

Rarity, it is me. What is going on ? Are you alright"

"S-S-Spike, Ahm...alright. P-P-Please leave me be..." came the distorted and muffled voice

Spike shook his head

"I am really sorry, but I can't leave you like this. You don't sound alright at all. Please let me see if I can help"

He opened the door and walked inside.

Rarity's royal sized bed under canopy was a total mess with sheets messed up all over. Rarity herself was stretched out on the bed, her mane in messy halo around her head. it seemed that she was crying for a while cause her eyes were already starting to look glassy and red.

She slowly turned her head towards Spike

Spikey...it wasnot supposed to be this way

Spike came a bit closer

"Rarity, I am sorry, could you repeat that ?"

"It was not supposed to be this way..."

"What, I really can't hear..."

"THIS IS ALL WRONG !!!" the unicorn yelled and Spike was telekinetically pulled towards her. The next moment, he was sitting in front of fashionista. Rarity's sapphire irises were looking like the two shimmering oceans, with the tears coating the surface of her eyes. " THIS WAS SUPPOSED TO BE ABOUT YOU !!! YOU CAME HER WITH A PROBLEM, YOU OPENED YOUR HEART IN FRONT OF ME, YOU AGREED TO MY HELP !!! AND WHEN I THOUGHT I CAN TRY TO BE AS WONDERFUL AND SUPPORTIVE AS YOU ARE ALWAYS TOWARDS ME, I GOT HIT IN MY OWN HEART !!! HOW TYPICAL !!! RARITY, SPOILED BRAT WHO CAN'T HAVE A MOMENT WITHOUT MAKING OTHERS TAKE CARE OF HER PROBLEMS !!! I AM SO PATHETIC, I DIDN'T CHANGE AT ALL !!! I WILL MAKE IT UP, I AM SORRY, I..."

Spike put a claw on Rarity's lips silencing her

The mare looked down, tears wetting her bed sheets.

"Rari..."

The unicorn's head shot up with her mouth opening slightly. While she was constantly calling Spike pet names, he was only used them towards her when he had something really important to say

"Rari..." dragon continued" Breathe...now, that's a bit better. Listen, you are not right. There is nothing wrong with you being sad because of your problems..."

"B-but...but..."

"It is true that I was feeling bad and decided to talk to you about it in hope you can help. And I know that in the past you put your problems in front of mine or the others and now you want to atone for it. But guess what ? It isn't about this at all !"

Rarity blinked confused

"Wha... wha..."

Spike spread his arms

"It is about us ! Not me, not you, us ! Working together through our problems, cherishing our happy moments and being there for each other ! You don't have to sacrifice everything to make me feel better. And you don't have to pretend that you are not hurt, even if you are obviously suffering. We don't have to worry about being selfish. Just when the time comes, we are there for each other and we know that we can feel safe. I will stay here as long as it takes and will be here for you as long as you need me. I trust you will do the same for me and that's why I feel that we can truly confide with one another"

Rarity sniffed and embraced the dragon in a tight hug

"You..." she whispered, choking slightly" You are so terribly sweet, you know that ?"

Spike smiled weakly

"Just the part of my awesomeness I guess. But seriously..."

He sit back on the bed and looked the beautiful pony in the eyes.

"Can you tell me what really made you so upset in the first place ? If it is not a problem..."

Rarity shook her head and pointed to the note that Spike gave her earlier

"Read it please" she instructed

Spike unfolded the message and began to read

Hi Big Sis

I know that you don't like me barging in like this but I had nowhere else to go. There is a note on the door of mom's and dad's apartment saying that they went on an exclusive holiday trip because of dad's latest victory. They won't be back for a week and the place is locked up. This is strange, I am sure that I told them that I am staying with them till the rehearsal. Anyway, I was stuck in Manehattan with no previous reservation in any hotel so I used my remaining bits to buy myself a train ticket back to Ponyville. I used the spare keys you gave and here I am. I will wait here till you come back. Please don't be mad at me, I promise I won't cook anything.

Love ya,

Spike felt sadder just by reading Sweetie's tale even without a context

"Spike" Rarity began her explanation” Do you know my and Sweetie Belle's parents ?"

Spike slowly nodded. He only met the parents of his loved one once and to be honest, he couldn't seem to recall much about them.

"Let's see...Hondo Flanks and Cookie Crumbles, right ? He is a hoofball player and she is a baker."

Rarity sighed deeply

"A catering executive and supervisor to be precise. But yes, my father plays for Canterlot Royal Hoofball Team which is also an official Equestrian representation as far as I recall. And my mother is responsible for the production of the food for the most esteemed guests and social events. She supervises everything to be just perfect and was even noticed by Princess Celestia, who made my mother her official cake supplier. That's because mom's talent focuses on pastries and cookies."

"With Celestia and her cake obsession, your mom must be really popular"

Rarity groaned

"She sure is and THAT is exactly the issue. Spikey, did you notice something odd concerning my parents ?"

Spike thought for a minute and then he got it

"It has been ages since I saw them here"

"Precisely, my parents were always very kind to me and I don't hide the fact that being a filly from a wealthy family had its perks. It helped me start my boutique after all. But because of all that fame, they always traveled a lot and I was being sent to the houses of my parents' friends. I...I couldn't understand what I was doing wrong. They never took me with them, not one time. When they were coming back, they were smiling and happy to see me. But I dreaded the moments of reunion because I knew that they will shortly lead to new feeling of loss. I hoped that after Sweetie Belle was born, our family will spend more time together but..."

Rarity became silent for a moment and the new stream of tears began to wet the bed

"...B-but i-it only g-got worse ! They were starting to just go on vacations, without any good excuse, leaving their daughters in the hooves of the ponies they only knew from meetings. I felt so alone back there. Spike, I know what is like to feel unwanted and abandoned. I was considered beautiful from my earliest years but even with the praise of the entire world, I couldn't feel more invisible than during those years. I started to design to make them come back. And even if I love high society because of the various reasons, I also wanted to be close to them. After a while, I learned to walk away from this feeling of rejection but in the times like this it just comes back. When I was old enough, they were leaving me to take care of Sweetie Belle, ignoring my own needs and forcing me back into loneliness. Even if I don't show it sometimes, I love my sister dearly. At least we have each other and sometimes I bitterly think that I was more of a mother figure to her than our actual mother was. I am not even concerned about myself anymore but Sweetie Belle...how could they do this to her just before her big day ? THEY SHOULD BE WITH US, WATCHING THEIR DAUGHTER BLOSSOM INTO THE ANGEL OF MUSIC AND NOT..."

Rarity's voice broke as she before sobbing once again.

Spike didn't move an inch but he suddenly realized that his own cheeks were wet from tears as well.

"Rarity..." he whispered

Breathtakingly beautiful, talented, creative, generous, confident, popular, sometimes dramatic and needy. Rarity appeared to be all this things.

But for the first time Spike looked at THE RARITY, pried open like an oyster. The similarity to his own experiences hit him with brutal force.

Rejection

Loneliness

Insecurity

Longing for closeness

Sometimes overwhelming responsibilities

They both struggled with them, although for extremely different reasons.

Two beings from two different worlds linked through their past and hope to find a better future.

A soft glow appeared in Spike's eyes as he scooted closer to Rarity and put a claw on her back

"Let it out now" he whispered

Rarity looked at him wide eyed

"Pardo-"

"There is no one else here and I know that there is much more in for you to let out. I know because I know what it's like. Let's just stay here and let it be gone from you. I will try to do the same, I will be here and I promise I won't let you go no matter what. Twilight says that the only true way to deal with sadness is to embrace it and let it out openly so..."

Rarity embraced him and cried, louder and more desperately than before. Her body started to shake and tremble as she cried loudly into Spike's chest.

The dragon in question was crying out his own past, that he was reliving over and over the last couple of months. But he still tried to comfort Rarity the best he could.

The pair both cried their pain from their souls, all of the years of loneliness pouring out from them

Rarity screamed into Spike's chest and her magic, amplified by her emotions, picked up various sewing items which started to circle around the bed like a small tornado.

*******************

Finally, after some time, the bodies of dragon and unicorn began to stop shaking. The tears were flowing less and less, and finally, they ceased their cascade. And lastly, items unconsciously wielded by Rarity started to fall around like a rain.

The pair fell down on the bed, still shaken by the "emotional detox"

"How are you feeling Rari ?" Spike asked

Rarity was silent for a while then her lips stretched into a small smile

"I had better days...but now I feel good enough to have a serious talk with my parents." She looked at Spike with half lidded eyes, that were slowly starting to lose their red hue "Thank you so much Spike. For being here for me"

"Same her" Spike grinned ” we both needed it, remember ?"

He took a small handkerchief from a night table and gave it to Rarity

The fashionista covered her dainty snout and blew her nose with a loud honk that would put Shining Armor's guard geese into shame.

She looked angrily at Spike

"Don't you dare say a word..."

"W-wouldn't dream of it... it is not like we didn't have to hide anything anymore..."

Rarity winked at him and lifted her head high

"I suppose...but now we are ready to face the world."

With that she brought her head and hoof down on a mattress and...

REEEEEEP !!!!

"AUUUUUGHHH !!!" Rarity struggled to get back up but the upper half of her head disappeared within the mattress

Spike watched bewildered as Rarity struggled to pull herself back up, her lower part doing some pretty interesting movements, before falling lifelessly on the bed.

" I...am stuck..." came a muffled voice

Spike started laughing

"Did your horn seriously pierced through..."

"Just help me please !!!"

"Wait, this is too good, I have to have a moment to appreciate the beauty of this glorious fail"

"While I am assured that the view from your side is certainly more interesting, get me out of here !!!!.

Spike chuckled and grabbed her by the sides

"Ay ay, milady"

'And there it is. The lovely Rarity, the embodiment of grace' Spike chuckled before grabbing Rarity by the neck and gently pulling her up.

Why me ?

View Online

Chapter 6

Spike and Rarity were lying on the balcony of the boutique, wrapped in blankets, hoof-stitched by Rarity herself. Although it was the beginning of the summer, the night air was rather chilly after the earlier storm.

It took about ten minutes to free Rarity from the dangerous trap of her bed mattress. And after that, they discovered that one of her fake eyelashes moved from her eye to under her muzzle. Even Rarity shared a laugh, agreeing she looked absolutely ridiculous.

After unicorn insisted that she needs a few minutes to make herself presentable again, Spike got down to the kitchen and prepared cocoa for both of them. A special recipe, an empathy cocoa as Starlight liked to call it.

And there they were, in the desperate need to let the fresh air calm the chaos of emotions within them and sipping the hot chocolate with marshmallows.

They were both laying motionless, stargazing until they both spoke

"Rarity, I..."

"Spike, listen..."

They both looked at each other in amusement. Then they resonated in unison once again

"I need to talk to you..."

Both of them blushed. They knew that "The Talk", an ultimate confession and resolution, had to come sooner or later. Apparently, sharing their feelings made the invisible wall fall. At least for now

"I have to talk to you now or else I feel may not get the courage to do so anytime sooner..." Rarity quickly said.

"Go on..." Spike said flustered.

Rarity wanted to oppose, not desiring to be first, but something told her to go on, to make the first move in telling her true feelings. Just like Spike was the one who started it all in the first place

"Spike" the unicorn began trying to hide the trembling in her voice " ever since I met you, you were nothing but a loyal, supportive and helpful friend. Through the years we knew each other you were devoted to me unlike any other. It was that devotion that made me appreciate who you really are.

You prevailed in your feelings through the passage of time and limits of space, you loved me despite what others thought, you wanted to protect me no matter the consequences. You always tried to cheer me up and stayed by my side even if I was breaking your heart. You kept coming back for me whenever I fell into the darkness of despair. And even if I didn't share the feelings at the time, you were my safety of the loving soul that I was taking for granted.

I would give everything I have to take back all of those years when I was simply using you for my advantage. You changed me darling, you changed me for the better. You made me understand that you can be loved for just who you are and that I want to share my love with someone who is imperfect, just like me. Someone who can understand me. Another being that I want to look after. One who lived a life with ups and downs just as I did.

You and I... we are as different as two creatures can be. A dragon and a pony, a generosity and greed, a lady from wealthy family and an orphan lost far from home. We don't make sense to anyone and for a long time, we didn't make sense to me. But I think now love is not about someone who would do my every whim, although it would be a nice bonus. What I need is someone to laugh with, someone to talk to without any holding back, a shoulder to cry on, a guy that can inspire me into living the fullest life I can live. One that that would make all the unwanted things go away with just his presence, the one that loves me no matter who I am, the one that makes me want to laugh and sing my soul out. The affection of that kind is not pony only and over the years you proved time and time again that you are truly worthy of my returned feelings.

So many years have passed. Twilight, Pinkie, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow and Starlight too you and me. We've all shared so much. My life was blessed with bonds I never felt before when I was a filly. I received a true friendship and I encountered a creature that gave me an unconditional love. I could never be more grateful.

You see Spike, we were the two types of love. You fell for me at the first glance didn't you ? Well I had to come a long way around and I guess that after seeing all that you've been through just to support me made me slowly...start...to love you. And with that in mind, and hoping for lots of pleasant memories in the future, I accept your offer. From now on, I become your special somepony."

Spike was rendered completely speechless. Finally, he chuckled, rubbing his head

Rarity eyed him suspiciously

"That...isn't the reaction I was expecting"

Spike waved his claws defensively

"No no no !!! It is not that I don't like it, for Luna's sake !!! I love it and I just don't know what to say ! But honestly, I never would've thought..."

"That I would have be on a "yes" all the way ?" Rarity smiled tiredly " Spike, while you certainly have more endurance in love, I had positively plenty experience with dating. Do you know what is like to fail over and over again ? Blueblood, Trenderhoof, so many others...I just couldn't stop. I didn't want to end up as a "crazy cat lady" as Pinkie Pie once put it. But I am tired Spike. Tired of rejection, loneliness, the lack of someone who would give me strength and I would give my passion.

https://youtu.be/PbUBvZ7drEU

It took me a while to notice that you are the constant one in my life, always close by my side. I won't lie, for the first couple of years I hated that you were always sticking with me and practically drooling on at my sight. I felt as if you looked at me as a trophy, going after my body as many before you...That you would hoard me like the dragons do with gems..."

"Rarity, I would NEVER..."

"I know darling, but allow me to finish. When you fell into your greed rampage, you ponynapped me and wanted to abduct to the mountain cave. I won't lie that this memory was keeping me a little scared even when over the years my heart was growing fond of you. That is, until your Heartswarming present changed my mind and heart. When you put me on such a pinnacle, saying that I was beyond compare, I realized that you value my very being more than anything in your live. And I comprehended the true meaning of the dragon's treasure. You wanted to protect me with all your life. Dragons may be greedy but they are truly loyal in protecting their precious items. I wanted so badly to match your dedication when you protected your greatest treasure...me. Spike...please tell me why"

"Why...what ?"

"Why me Spike ? Why did you chose a pretentious, snobbish drama queen who used you for so long without guilt and threw tantrums to make others do her bidding ? Why did you took so much time to show me how to really love"

Spike stretched up and smiled

"Looks like this is my cue, huh ? Rarity, when I first saw you, you were the most beautiful being I have ever seen with my eyes. And your record still stands. I guess meeting you was just some twist of fate and I chose to be your helper but...I totally didn't have control over falling in love with you. And that basically was all, at least at the beginning. Pony with a breathtaking beauty and a lovesick fool, drooling over every little bit of sentiment

When you managed to make me go back to my small self and we almost died, falling down from the sky, I realized that I wouldn't be able to see you go away. That's why I started to come to your place even more often.

Over time, I started to see your flaws as well. But I couldn't care less. Sure, there were times when I wished for you to treat me a bit better. But I worried that in other case and scenario, I wouldn't be able to come to you anymore.

Dragons develop a bond of loyalty beyond life and death to both their treasures and partners. They are monogamous, despite what some ponies think. Only Dragon Lords are allowed to have harems, although I don't know if Ember finds this law attractive for her. The point is, I don't think I would be able to love any creature beside you. From the moment I saw you, I knew that even if you will never love me, I must never give up in trying winning your heart.

I wanted to prove that I can be a good partner. I wanted to show all of the outcasts out there that are in the same position in which I once was that you can be happy when you work hard, are loyal and have a heart full of love. I needed to show the world that I can give instead of taking.

Over the years there were countless times when I wanted to talk with you, just like this talk now. But I think those times weren't nearly as good as now.

Rarity, all I ever want is for you to be happy and have a fantastic life. I want to share it with you as much as I can because I believe I can at least try to make you have a wonderful time.

Feeling that I have someone to love, beside my family of course, gave me a greater happiness in life. When I was with you, I felt that I could do anything. You showed me how to be creative in so many ways, to find something funny in things that were so dull before.

I cherished every moment of excitement you experienced and I suffered when I felt I couldn't hope for more from your side. That was just how it went. But I just couldn't stop loving you and wanting to protect you.

https://youtu.be/orJJniWRpRQ

Rarity, you made my life brighter because you always took your time to appreciate the beauty around you. Thanks to you, I look for the beauty in gems instead of just eating them; because of you I feel the appreciation for the world around me, in sunny and rainy days.

I think you are beautiful beyond compare and not just your amazing body. You have truly beautiful soul. You posses so many things within you, so many quirks. I love how you always wrinkle your nose and twirl your mane when you concentrate, how you smile when you finish your design, how you always prance a little while waiting for the important news. That glow in your eyes when they are reflecting the sun, your fainting on the couch, your little beat boxing entries, your "earsplitting pandemonium", your laughter...everything that makes you... you. They maybe little things but when I think that you are one of a kind and won't ever happen again...that makes me love them.

Of course, you have the flaws too. Sometimes even horrible flaws, which I don't like. But that is what makes you a pony and I wouldn't have it any other way.

I know that I am no fairy tale prince and I have to say that I may not be good enough to be a part of your world. What I can give you is unconditional love. Even if you change your mind and leave me, that won't stop me from wanting to protect you. I know that our relationship wouldn't be an easy one. I understand how important the opinion of other ponies
is to you . If it was for saving your reputation, no scale on my body would ever to touch your fur. I don't even know if you will find me desirable, I can't tell how we stand against the world. I am not certain if we ever manage to...ehhmmm...have children. But I am sure that if we stand together, we would be fine. So allow me to be here with you for as long as I can, if you give me the honor to be the one receiving your love."

Rarity was staring at the dragon starry-eyed, smiling and blushing, as she sighed lovingly

"Thank you" she whispered " that was one of the most touching and beautiful things I heard in my life. Do...do you still want to be with me ? Even with all my wrongs and the parts that are not so easy to tolerate ?"

Spike stretched out his wings and flexed his hard earned muscles.

"I am the dragon. We are the symbol of greed that takes all and makes no exceptions. No matter the dark and wrong parts, I'll take you whole"

Rarity's face reddened even more and Spike gasped

"No, I didn't mean it like that !!! I swear, I would never do such a thing !!!"

Rarity fanned herself with her hoof

"I-I know S-Spikey...though I m-must admit, you caught me rather by surprise. But what Element of Generosity would I be to not share-"

She covered her mouth with her hooves and let out a muffled scream.

THAT sounded even worse.

The pair looked themselves in the eyes.

And both shivered at the same time.

'Cause you are here...

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Chapter 7

SPIKE POV

'Oh no ! What did I do now ? She looks so nervous and stuff ! What shall I say' Spike thought, eyeing Rarity.

He slide his gaze down her face when suddenly:

I WANT TO KISS HER

Spike froze for a moment. Where the heck did that come from ?

HER LIPS. MINE

Whoa, slow down there. Could that be his draconic instinct kicking in ?

But maybe this is not a bad idea after all... but I just don't know if this is the right time... what would the others do in my place.

In his imagination, he saw the most present male friends in his life.

'Guys, what should I do now ?'

"Be unexpected. Sweep her of her hooves and then shower everything in confetti. After that drink chocolate milk together. " said imaginary Discord"

Well, that was somewhat to be expected

"Be firm, strong but not like ya were buckin' a tree with all force. More like polishin' the apple. Eeeeeeyuupp !" added Big Mac

That wasn't that bad...aside of the metaphors.

"I am sure you can do it buddy" Shining Armor grinned to him" Show her what men of Sparkle family are capable of !"

Can you enlighten me what we are supposed to be capable of ? I mean, it took you 10 years or something to get married ..."

"Spike, this is amazing !!! You certainly have to tell me all about pony love rituals !!! "Thorax beamed, always eager to learn about foreign traditions” Ever wondered why Chrysalis has holes in her legs...

Okay, that is far enough !!!

"Hey, Spike" another voice sounded from his right side and Spike looked around. He was shocked to see Ember there

Ember ? You are not a guy !

The fist of the dragoness collided with his shoulder. Even if it was only his imagination, it didn't hurt any less than the punch of the actual Ember.

"Of course I am not a guy, you idiot !" Ember shouted, her cheeks turning purple " I just came to you because as a Dragon Lord, I want to help my best friend. Even though you still chose HER, and not me...

What ?!

Ember gently pushed him forward

"Go. Show to her that the true dragon always gets what he wants..."

Spike blinked and realized that he was back on the balcony. But Rarity was nowhere to be seen. He was so entranced in his visions that she didn't notice her disappear

RARITY POV

I would never imagine that I would be attending a conference in my own mind but I needed advice and my mind seemed like a best source

Girls, this really happening !!! And I can't stop screaming !!! Help me !!!

"Sugarcube, just don't do anything rush before the wedding !"

Wedding ?!!!

"Make sure to have a some yummy candy lipstick”

Yummy ?

"Be so quick that the guy won't know what hit him"

"Be sure to make Spike comfortable"

"IF YOU HURT MY LITTLE BROTHER-"

For Celestia's sake, enough !!! She needed to act now !

********************

Spike was on his way to the door when Rarity emerged from behind the door frame.

The mare had a determined look with her eyes but when she noticed Spike, her face changed into embarrassed one.

"Spike, I am sorry for running away like that. I...needed to sort out a few things"

Spike chuckled awkwardly

"Me too, you won't guess what strange things I saw all of the sudden-"

Rarity made a step forward and then stopped

"Ehhh..."

"Ummmm..."

They both made a step forward but..

WOAH !!!

AIIII !!!!

A furious " MEOOOW !!!!!" came from down below when Opal, chasing some bird outside passed between them and was almost completely crushed below their legs.

Rarity screamed as she slipped and began to fall. Spike managed to catch her in his arms, but his own lack of equilibrium and momentum of the sudden motion caused him to follow Rarity's lead.

The unicorn fell to the floor and before she could even think, Spike's face, directly above her, closed the distance. And his lips landed on hers with a formidable strength.

Rarity's eyes bulged out from the sudden pressure. If it all wasn't happening so fast, she would be ashamed that all of her mental preparation led to her mimicking the puffer fish during the kiss.

But soon this feeling faded away.

Rarity gently kissed back, caressing the warm lips of Spike. She felt as if she was melting away. Spike was gentle as well, presumably from his inexperience, but Rarity loved every single moment. It was that tenderness that put her entire being at ease.

That was the same feeling when she was using her Element of Harmony. Just merging with the harmony and serenity of another's presence.

Spike on the other hand, was on the verge of passing out from happiness and love overload. He opened his eyes to see Rarity staring at him lovingly. She moved her eyeball upward and winked at him.

He understood and deepened the kiss. Rarity did the same and for a minute or two there was no need for talking or thinking. Just one constant stream of love, enveloping them in blissful light of peace.

Finally, they parted and Rarity smiled

"As for the first real kiss, even if caused by my dear Opal that...was simply divine"

Spike nodded, still in daze

"Yeah...best dreams can't compare to this"

Rarity eyed him with a soft smirk

"You know, to be honest, I thought that scales wouldn't be so pleasant to kiss...but it was such an interesting experience. It tastes like burned sandalwood, something spicy and oriental..."

She looked around and bit her lip, looking at him coyly

"My, my, Spikey...it is not like you to be so bold. Whatever happened to you in that one evening ?"

Spike followed her gaze and noticed the position they were. She was stretched down on the ground and he was half leaning, half kneeling over her, with his arm still supporting her back.

He yelped, and scooted away as far as possible from Rarity, waving his hands so hard that they were almost transparent

"I-i-it w-was't on p-purpose...I s-swear on pervert, I am not Celestia...I mean... I am not a lovesick drool...fool...t-t-that I w-was back t-t-t-there. Opal...you...me...and I....then you...on the floor...and Opal...I flipped...I mean t-t-trpied... I mean..."

Rarity chuckled loudly and Spike stopped blushing madly

"Darling, it is alright, I am just teasing you" she waved a hoof „Given, it didn't happen exactly in a way that I imagined it. But still...it was magical..."

Spike sighed in relief

"Yeah...you really are perfection alive..."

Rarity blushed and got up, dusting herself off

"Say..." she said, pouting at the dragon" we can do that again if you like..."

"W-wha..."

"You know, since there is only you and me so..."

"WOHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOO !!!!!!!!!" came an high pitched screech above them.

Rarity and Spike looked up and their jaws dropped.

Above the boutique hovered a large, brown sofa. On the said sofa were sitting three princesses and Discord, munching the popcorn.

Spike rubbed his eyes and blinked confused

"Discord ? Princesses ? What in Tartarus ..."

Rarity bowed her head

"Good night your majesties, Discord... pardon my rudeness but... WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN MY BOUTIQUE ?!!!!" she yelled, reddening from anger

Discord raised his eagle claw

"Now now Rarity, everyone can plainly see that we are not IN your home"

"You know damn well what I mean, dhaarrrrrliing !" Rarity hissed venomously " I am sorry but you are touching my personal air ! Me and Spike have some unfinished business to attend to !"

"YYYIIIIIIHIHIHIHIIIHHIIIIIIIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH !!!!" Cadence screeched one more time, her eye twitched under frazzled mane, as she furiously scribbled something on a piece of a parchment.

Spike raised an eyebrow and addressed Celestia, who was wearing a pyjama and the bags under her eyes suggested a desperate need for sleep.

"Why exactly are you spying on us...for..."

"Twenty minutes now" Luna whispered

"Yeah...what happened ? "

"Cadence happened" Celestia yawned pointing at the pink alicorn " she woke me up, saying that something amazing is going to happen and we must see it. She wouldn't stay quiet and dragged us up here"

"And how come we didn't see or hear you before ?"

Discord crossed his claws with a smirk

"Piece of cake for me. You are so unlucky that Tia here demanded to dispell the protection before I could bring the real fun to live here"

Spike grinned at him

"You would so get it...You like to have thousand years of pain during the next session ?"

Discord crossed his arms

"Oh no, not that, everything but the thousand years of pain ! My butt is still hurting even if disconnect it from my body !

Spike focused his attention on the Princess of the Night.

"And why my sister-in-law acts like a rooster on sugar high ?"

"Cadence can detect abnormalities and fluctuations in pony emotions the same way I can search for nightmares" Luna explained " You have to forgive her, she is just very excited."

"YES ! " Cadence bounced in place " THIS IS REVOLUTIONARY ! THIS IS THE FIRST LOVE OF THAT KIND !!!! I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU !!!!"

"Princess, please, you will wake my sister" Rarity quickly said " come to think of it, she is such a heavy sleeper with all the commotion outside"

"Sorry, sorry" Cadence smiled " But, congratulations! There was never a relationship that was causing so much controversy."

"Ekhm..." Discord proudly presented his chest

The Princess of Love rolled her eyes

"And of course Discord's NEVER CONFESSED affection towards your friend Fluttershy. It is time you do something about this !"

The large bucket of chocolate milk emptied its contents on her head.

"I am a god, I have time "

"Well she hasn't got all infinity. Prolonging it will only make things worse. Right, auntie Celestia ?"

Celestia was sitting on her spot with the eyes closed

"I am not obliged to answer questions outside my working hours. I am exhausted. What a drag..."

She opened her eyes and looked at the pair below. With a gentle flap of her wings she landed in front of Spike and hugged him

"Spike, you are like a son to me and I am so happy that you found love with such nice mare as Rarity."

Luna sighed

"Well, I suppose we will be going. There will be plenty of time to talk when the rest of your friends wake up"

"What do you mean ?" Rarity asked

"OOOOH !!! Luna gasped" I forgot to tell you ! I allowed your friends to come to your minds and give you courage in this important moment. I thought of it as good, friendly deed"

"Wait..." Rarity mumbled in a weak voice " So the visions earlier...they weren't..."

"Just your imagination ? No, 100 % real ponies guaranteed. Well, as real as dream selves can be"

" I think I am going to faint..."

"So everyone knows now...that explains a lot...and sets up a lot of questions too" Spike said, thinking about Ember and her odd behavior.

Discord rolled his eyes

"Okay, I am officially bored. Farewell, my dear brother in arms. We will surely discuss this later. Say weeeeeeeeee !!!"

He smacked the sofa, which soared through the sky, moving with the sound of farting and rainbow trail.

When Celestia's scream was gone in the distance, Luna smiled tenderly at the pair

"So there you have it. Enjoy your special night. And before I go too, allow me to give you a gift. Consider it an apology for earlier interruption"

The princess flew higher and higher, rising her hooves above her head. When her entire silhouette was in front of a full moon, she started to sing an entrancing melody:

https://youtu.be/4TQ-oXjT7Zc

As Luna sang, shooting stars started to fall down in a luminous cascade and the moonlight enveloped the surroundings in the eerie, magical glow. The last clouds faded, leaving only clear, starry sky.

Luna bowed her head

"I am so glad that my creations may lift the spirits of two of my dearest friends. One who freed me from the darkness and shared the burden of my past. And the one that helped me felt that I belonged and understood my loneliness more than many who called themselves my closest advisors. I wish you happiness during that night and beyond it. Feel free to come to castle and talk to Tia and me, we are very eager to listen to you. Goodnight"

And with an indigo flash, she was gone

Rarity couldn't take her eyes of the sky and "oooohs" and "aaahs" kept leaving her mouth.

Spike slowly walked to her and sat next to her.

The unicorn rested her head on Spike's shoulder and they both watched celestial shower

"Hey Rarity"

"Mmmm ?" fashionista looked at him with one cheek still squished into his arm. Her vibrant eyes were filled with the reflected, shiny trails of the falling stars.

Spike continued, smiling

"I think that you helped me after all"

"Really ? That is wonderful darling !"

"You know, I think I am okay with how the things are now. There may not be perfect but will it ever be ? It wouldn't hurt for all of you to take me on the missions or just include me more in general things you do. But I love all of my friends so much that I just can't think of myself anywhere else but your side. And after all..."

He embraced Rarity who accepted the gesture, nuzzling dragon’s snout with her own with a soft giggle

"...I have you, my greatest treasure and the biggest happiness. I don't know if I believe in destiny, but if it exists...if it made me meet you... I am so grateful that I managed to live with you all here. If my destiny was to find you, save you and give you love to finally find myself too...it wouldn't be so bad..."

Rarity felt a tear flowing down her face as she gently kissed Spike on the cheek

"I feel so too Spikey Whikey" she said, making herself comfortable within his arms.

And she meant it.

She knew that they didn't need wealth, social influence, power, a kingdom. They didn't need to put up the displays or play pretend. They didn't even had to feel a burning lust and desire to make the other their own in the most primal of ways.

There was sadness, anger and fear. But also love, laughter and freedom.

They had a whole life within them. Within their past, present...and future.

And to live it happily, they wanted to stand tall and proud, side by side.

Of that, Rarity was sure.

Art and audio copyright index

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This is my first story when I use clips and outside art. I meant for it to improve visual comfort and enrich the story. I hope that I managed to keep the balance.

I OWN ONLY THE STORY ITSELF. ALL MY LITTLE PONY: FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC, INCLUDING THE WORLD OF EQUESTRIA AND ALL ASSOCIATED CHARACTERS BELONG TO HASBRO. I ALSO DON'T OWN ANY OF THE ART AND AUDIO PRESENTED ALONGSIDE THIS STORY. I HAVE NO INTENTION OF USING IT AS MY OWN CREATION AND I MAKE SURE THAT IT WILL BE ACREDITED PROPERLY IN THE INDEX BELOW AND IN AUTHOR'S NOTES IN THE ORDER OF APPERANCE. ALL THE DRAWINGS, SONGS AND EXTERNAL ADDINGS BELONG TO THE RESPECTIVE ARTISTS:

Art and audio index:

Introduction

Clockwise Hooves by saturnspace

MLP screenshot (s04e26)

Hot Stuff by Trace-101 (Devianart)

Best Gift Ever Guitar Spike and Rarity by Pia Sama on Derpibooru

MLP shot (s05e23 Inspiration Manifestation)

Spike encourage Rarity by zouyugi

Compilation of Sparity kisses

Chapter 1:

Spike's song to Rarity from Best Gift Ever

Rarity with the flower; watercolor by Andy Price on Equestripedia

Chapter 2:

Naruto OST "Sadness and Sorrow" by Toshiro Masuda; version with "rain sounds" by Andreaa

Chapter 3
"Rarity eats ice cream" by geraritydevillefort on Deviantart

"Neptune" by Sleeping At Last

Chapter 4:

"I Made You Muffins Rarity" by Cheezburger

"Better Way to Be Bad" by Daniel Ingram , instrumental arranged by Rain Shadow

Chapter 5:

Spike hugging Rarity by Jokeypp on Deviantart

Chapter 6:

"I have to be in love" by Carpenters

"May I" by Trading Yesterday

Spike and Rarity in the rain by marzzel

Chapter 7

Tsundere Ember found on Devianart, uploaded by unicornotaku

"Princess Cadence did you say milkshake" by drpancakees

"Cassini: Grand Finale" by Sleeping At Last

Hopeful Rarity by compassrose0425 (This is also the cover image)

Together Alone: I live to love you

by Shadowlight Wanderer

Before read introduction

Rainy randez vous

March of the outcast

Different and yet so close

Unexpected arrival

Sapphire tear, emerald embrace

Why me ?

'Cause you are here...

Art and audio copyright index